University Degrees Online

How it Works

In this high-tech world, you can be in the comfort of your home or office and continue your education as long as you have reliable Internet access, an email account, and the money for tuition and textbooks.

The degrees are earned by successfully completing the course requirements for that major. Many feel their careers could be boosted and their salaries increased if they obtained a master's or PhD. These classes are tailored for the working professional that is perhaps too busy to take time off from his job to further his education and needs the flexibility to complete coursework whenever time allows.

Keep In Mind

As you consider pursuing an online education, make sure you know what you are looking for in a school. Not all of the institutions offering online degrees are accredited.

Also, if you are interested in just one or two classes, you might want to consider online continuing education courses. You will receive a certificate upon completion, as opposed to a bachelor's or master's degree, but the focused classes may better fit your needs.

The Online Advantages

Some of the many advantages to earning university degrees online include:

• Studying can take place at your own pace
• You can keep your current job while you take classes
• You do not have to relocate to live on campus
• You can continue to live with your family
• Online degree programs, for the most part, are less expensive

Take courses in the comfort of your home.

A Sample Online Program

As just one example of the many online programs available, Penn State has an accredited program resulting in a diploma from Penn State University. One of the courses of study is the master's in adult education. The curriculum includes the usage of:

• Web technology
• Print and other media
• Bulletin boards and e-mail
• Online access to the library's research databases

To get started in this program or a similar one, you would need to go to their website to fill out the application form. As with any application process, you will pay a fee. You will be notified soon after of your status and further assisted until you are accepted as a student.

Available University Degrees Online

Some of the courses you can find being offered at online universities across the United States include:

Undergraduate Degrees

• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
• Associate in Information Sciences and Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design
• Bachelor of Arts in Nursing

Graduate Degrees

• Master of Project Management
• Master of Education in Earth Science
• Master of Engineering in Oil and Gas Engineering Management
• Master of Geographic Information Systems
• Master of Homeland Security in Public Health Preparedness

Universities to Choose From

There are a number of major institutions that have recently made it possible for students to earn their degrees with the use of a computer. Visit the websites listed below to learn which courses at the following schools interest you:

• University of Berkley
• Washington State University
• Belford University
• University of Massachusetts
• Oregon State University

Additional Tips

• To search by degree type or institution, Education Center Online provides you with a wealth of resources and can send free information.
• Classes USA allows potential students to search for universities by major and degrees. When you find a school you feel fits your needs, you can request more information.
• Brick-and-mortar schools provide financial aid to students who qualify, and you can receive the same aid when you study online as well. Grants are available. Often the amount of aid given by universities determines where students prefer to attend.
• Finally, as with any important decision, make sure you take the time to plan well as you prepare for your future.