Online degree courses have gained immense popularity in recent times. Despite all the popularity, the debate regarding these courses is usually revolving around two things. Some consider it to be the future of education. Others debate that it is a cheap alternative to traditional education.
Deciding between online or traditional degree courses can be very confusing at times, especially when you are unaware of its pros and cons. Thereby, the following are the pros and cons of online degree courses that can assist you to make an informed decision.
Pros:
Easily accessible
The reason that led to the development of online education was to make it accessible to those who are not able to attend traditional learning programs. People can enroll and easily complete their courses from any part of the world eliminating the barriers of geographical borders. Moreover, people who are disabled can also complete them from the convenience of their homes. Everything required for online degree courses is accessible online, be it attending classes or submitting assignments.
More affordable
Factually, they are not a fortune cheaper than their traditional counterparts and proper research is required to discover the total cost of an online degree course before comparing it to the traditional program. However, in most cases, online degree courses are affordable.
Even if the cost of the course matches the traditional counterparts, a lot of money can still be saved in terms of hostel charges, transportation costs. Moreover, a part-time job is a lot easier with an online degree course as it offers the benefit of flexible timings.
Quicker completion
The best part is that it has streamlined subjects as per the degree requirements. Traditional programs that cover all topics from arts to management sciences for the graduation of students. Online ones, on the other hand, usually include courses that specifically required for the respective field eradicating all other additional subjects which eventually leads to a quick completion of programs.
Cons:
Some subjects can’t be taught online
Students can pursue most topics online. However, there are certain subjects that just don’t fit with online learning. For instance, studying medical surgeries and technical expertise would be difficult online as it requires proper physical demo and exercises.
More personal responsibility
Yes, there is a liberty to study as per your own schedule in online degree courses. But, the responsibility of completing them and monitoring the process is much higher as compared to traditional education programs. Usually, people take it easy and procrastinate which can eventually lead to poor results.
Networking can be challenging
Networking is very important when it comes to finding a graduate program or job-hunting. It is a fact that networking grows strong in traditional environments. Those who are completing courses find it very challenging to create and develop strong networks.
With every passing day, the technology is advancing and so is the quality and variety of online degree courses.
If you want to choose the best fit for you between the two, you must carry out your own research weighing in the pros and cons of online degree courses and traditional education programs to determine the one that fits the best.
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