If you’re taking your first look at online education, get ready to be surprised and delighted. The primary benefits of online learning include convenience and flexibility, but there are several other advantages as well. When you earn a degree online, you can choose your start date, study alongside a diverse group of students from around the world, complete your coursework from anywhere, set your own pace, use new technologies, and receive plenty of student support along the way.

Walden University is a top choice for online education. For more than 50 years, Walden has supported working professionals in achieving their academic goals and making a greater impact in their profession and their communities.

With so many online colleges and online universities to choose from, how do you select the right one? We’ve identified six criteria that can help you narrow down your search and select the very best institution for your personal and career goals.

1. Choose an accredited university.
2. Ensure the degree programs match your areas of interest.
3. Review the program curriculum.
4. Investigate the various technologies being offered.
5. Consider financing.
6. Learn from recent graduates.

Distance learning has been around for decades. Of course, COVID-19 forced education at all levels online, and as a result, employers will likely see a significant jump in the number of job applicants who have earned or completed a degree online.

Numerous studies have found distance and online learning courses to be as effective as traditional classroom training. One study found that the majority of employers perceive the quality of degrees earned online to be equal to the quality of those earned at traditional brick-and-mortar institutions.¹ Of course, as with other learning institutions, it is important that an online school is accredited.

¹Source: https://cps.northeastern.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Online_Ed_in_2019.pdf

Every online institution is different, and it is important to find an online university that is not only accredited but also offers programs that are the right fit for your goals and aspirations. Walden University offers online degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, as well as a number of certificate programs. At Walden, you can find programs in management, nursing, psychology, social work, education, health, counseling, public policy, public administration, criminal justice, and more.

If you’re wondering whether online learning would be a good fit for you, take a few moments to think things through. There are several key factors that may make you a successful candidate for online learning, whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, PhD, or professional doctoral degree.

Interest in a Global Perspective:  If you’re curious about your profession on an international scale, you will be pleased with how easily online learning can connect you with fellow students worldwide. Online coursework can provide opportunities to collaborate and exchange ideas and experiences with your global counterparts.

Too Busy to Attend On-Campus Classes: If you’re currently working full time yet want to pursue a degree, an online degree program may be the key to fitting coursework and studying into your busy life.

Being Comfortable With Computers and Technology: If you regularly use a computer at work and spend your free time shopping online, emailing, posting on social media, or paying bills, you will likely be equally as comfortable with learning online.

Being Self-Motivated: As an online college student, you’ll need to motivate yourself to do homework and complete assignments on time. Nobody is going to stand over you and make you do it.

Time Management: For professionals trying to balance time between work, family, and their studies, it’s important to set the stage for success by setting aside a realistic amount of time to devote to your studies.

Being Organized: It’s critically important to keep track of coursework, homework assignments, and due dates. You simply can’t perform at your best if you’re writing an important paper at 2 a.m. after a long day at work.

Whether you’re starting college, returning to finish your bachelor’s degree online, or enrolling in an online graduate program, you are embarking on a life-changing journey with many rewards for you and your family. Continuing your education is an opportunity to refocus and move toward your goals. Here are a few tips for making your online learning experience successful:

• Involve your family in your success.
• Document your goals.
• Set a schedule for coursework and homework.
• Find a quiet place to study.
• Be prepared to study anywhere.
• Know what resources are available.
• Create online study groups with classmates.
• Build relationships with classmates and faculty members.
• Set your priorities.
• Reward yourself, maintain balance, and renew your energy.

When you decide to earn your degree online from Walden University, you’ll have access to a variety of student support services to help you at every step of your academic journey. That’s because Walden takes a student-centered approach to learning, which means you benefit from supportive specialists and advisors, engaged faculty, and innovative technology that allows you to learn on the go. At Walden, support options include:

• Student Wellness and Disability Services
• Academic Skills Center
• Writing Center
• Walden Library
• Career Planning and Development Center