Not that long ago, getting a college education meant going to a campus and living there throughout the course of your study. The idea of getting a liberal arts degree online has taken a while to become reality, but today it’s not only possible: In many ways, it is preferable.
Lower costs
This is probably the first thing people think of when they consider getting a degree online. Not only are online courses less expensive than traditional degrees, but you save quite a bit on the commute, housing, and even on textbooks, because many universities make most of their books available online.
Flexibility
Another great benefit of getting your online liberal arts associates degree is the flexibility to study on your schedule. If you need to study early in the morning, late at night, or during a lunch break, you will have the freedom to choose your own schedule with most of your classes.
More interaction
It probably seems counterintuitive that you will have more opportunity to interact with an online class than in person, but studies have shown that many people find it easier to concentrate on the class and feel more confident interacting online. Also, the quality will be just as good as if you studied in a traditional setting.
Future opportunities
Employers are increasingly looking for more than just a degree. They want real-world work experience. You can easily hold down a job while getting your associate degree, and a liberal arts education opens up many opportunities, from health care to education, government work to marketing.
Improved tech skills
Working online requires a whole different set of skills from taking classes in person. You’ll need to learn how to use the learning management systems the school has chosen, and you will likely have to create audio/video materials to complete courses. You will take part in online training, and, in the end, will come away better at working with tech than when you started.
Work in comfort
You can learn and listen in whatever way is comfortable for you. If you want to download a lecture and listen while you run, you can do that. If you prefer to sit in bed in your pajamas, that’s OK, too. If you can’t be bothered to get dressed in the morning and want to interact online over a cup of coffee, you can choose to work this way.
Continue your career
If you want to advance but can’t afford to go to school full time, taking classes online gives you the freedom to keep working even while you work towards your degree. While it has always been technically possible to do that if you lived and worked close enough to a university with plenty of evening class options, it is much easier now that you can do it all from your computer.
Choose from a variety of programs
You have many programs to choose from, and you can combine classes from accredited schools to get the education you really want. You can also choose from different formats for learning and find the way that works best with your learning style.
Broadened network
In the past, you could expect most of your classmates to be from a similar background. By studying online you will be able to interact with classmates from all over the world. You will make professional and personal connections that broaden your horizons and your options.
Freedom to change your situation
If a family member falls ill or if you need to move for work, you don’t have to stop your classes or lose all the money and effort you have poured into your studies. Whether you have to go across the state or across the world, you can take your classes with you.
