If you are interested in pursuing an online degree, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind. These include finding the right school, setting up your study area, and preparing yourself for independent learning.
Find a school with accreditation
If you are pursuing an online degree, you must ensure it’s from an accredited school. This is a great way to know that you are getting a legitimate education that will set you up for success in your career.
There are three types of accreditation. These are national, regional, and programmatic. Each has its own merits and requirements.
National accreditation is most common in career training and practical career programs. It also works well for religious studies, vocational training, and technical training.
Regional accreditation is the most rigorous type of accreditation. Most schools have been awarded this honor. However, transferring credits from a nationally accredited school to a regionally accredited school can be challenging.
Ideally, you should go to a regionally accredited online college. You can find this out by checking with your academic adviser. Alternatively, you can use the CHEA database.
The Distance Education Accrediting Commission specializes in accrediting distance learning programs. Similarly, you can find a school that has been accredited by the ACE (Accrediting Commission for Educational Excellence) or the ABHE (Association for Biblical Higher Education).
Accreditation of online colleges is voluntary in the United States. However, it adds value to the degrees they award.
In addition, it helps students get a better understanding of the quality of education that is offered.
Set up a study area
If you’re pursuing an online degree like NKU online, there are many things to consider. One of the most important is the setup of your study area. It’s not enough to have a chair and some paper; you need to create a comfortable environment that is conducive to learning. An organized and functional study space is also key to reducing distractions and getting the most out of your time.
The best way to accomplish this is to keep your mind occupied with the task. Consider using an alarm clock or a timer for jogging your mind and set up a dandelion-based schedule to remind you of your scheduled tasks. This is especially important if you use the same study space for multiple classes. For example, if you’re taking a math class, your study space should accommodate several students and a few math books at a time. You can also designate a small shelf to house textbooks and class materials.
Prepare yourself for independent learning
A great way to get the most out of your education is to prepare yourself for independent learning. In the online world, this means being ready to attend lectures, complete assignments, and participate in online communities. Taking the time to prepare yourself for the rigors will reap the rewards of increased academic success. The following tips and tricks should help you on the road to success.
Schedule a study nook at a suitable time and place, and allocate time for hands-on and off-the-clock activities. Having a designated study area also makes it easier to stay on track. Schedule a study time at night when you’re not likely to be tempted to watch TV. This is especially true if you’re an avowed night owl. Check in with your professors during class discussions to ensure you get the most out of the class.
Fund your education
If you are a student planning to pursue an online degree, you may need financial aid to make it possible. Many schools offer grants and scholarships to cover some of the costs. However, before you apply, you should compare schools by different criteria. For instance, you should find out if your school is accredited.
In addition to scholarships, there are also loans you can take out to help pay for your education. Each type has its fees, interest rates, and limits. Learning more about them before you sign up for a loan is a good idea. You should also consult with your financial advisor.
