You may be curious about different things while researching various online degree programs and course offerings. Whether you’re speaking to a college counselor or someone familiar with your desired institution, here are questions to ask before enrolling in an online university.
5 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling in an Online University
Before enrolling in an online university, ask persons of authority how the program works and what the learning process is like. Ask how large the classes are and who’ll be teaching them. Knowing how much the program costs and what kind of support students can get are also good questions to ask.
An online university’s flexibility and accessibility are gaining popularity among incoming college students. However, programs and processes vary, so you must check which ones will benefit you the most.
What Type of Support Does the Online University Offer Its Enrolled Students?
Since you won’t be on campus, it’s necessary to ask if the university has some kind of online support. For example, private colleges MN provide more personal attention from highly qualified professors and immediate access to support services.
- Are there mentors or tutors available for those struggling with their subjects?
- Are there online study groups or access to an online library?
- Is there are online student community where peers can assist each other?
- Can you expect technical support for online classes?
How Does the Degree Program Work and What Is the Learning Process?
Another vital question to ask before enrolling is knowing what you’ll be expected to study and learn for a program. Choosing the learning method is one of the best ways to help you find an educational program. Online universities may use varying academic models.
- Traditional: Instructors discuss subjects online, requiring students to attend classes at set times. You will earn credit for time spent attending classes and completing coursework.
- Competency-based: You will receive learning resources or modules per subject to study on your preferred schedule.
- Combined: This model combines online and traditional programs. While you can attend most of the subjects online, there are available in-campus classes as well.
How Large Are the Classes?
Distance learning helps students retain 25% to 60% more information than on-campus classes. This is because of having fewer students in class and the ability to revisit video classes.
Some campuses pack too many students in classrooms. The disadvantage of having large class sizes is that students tend to get disengaged easily, and it’s harder to do group work.
Do Employers Hire Graduates of This Online University?
Check surveys, national rankings, and placement statistics about employers hiring graduates from a particular online university. Ask if the university also includes relevant certifications that can prepare you for licensure.
How Much Will It Cost?
Online university programs can cost the same as on-campus programs. However, others may charge less or more, depending on the facilities, services, and degree offerings. Ask the university about the tuition fee for the whole academic year, including miscellaneous fees.
Related Questions
Do Online Universities Accept Previously Earned Credits From Other Institutions?
Yes, most online universities accept transfer credits from accredited institutions. However, your target school may still need to determine if the credits align with their current program.
Do Online Universities Offer Financial Aid?
The majority of online universities offer financial aid and scholarships to assist students financially. You may also ask for grants and loans.
Are There Extra-Curricular Activities in an Online University?
An online university can offer extra-curricular activities, although you’ll also experience most online. Sports clubs may require in-person meetings, whereas academic and social clubs can have online sessions.
Conclusion
Before you enroll in an online university, you must ask what the program is like, how many students will get accepted per class, what kind of support students have, whether employers hire graduates from a school, and how much the program will cost. Compare the answers from different universities before making the final decision.
