Jan 12
23
A New Era for Online Schools
As the ASPCU begins a chapter with its new president, online schools also look forward to moving beyond the troubles that plagued them over the last few years.
Will Steve Gunderson, former Congressman and newly confirmed president of the Association of Private Sector Colleges, be able to increase legitimacy and public acceptance for online schools and students with online university degrees?
Online schools have the potential to sustain and build America’s global economic, research, and cultural leadership.
Will Gunderson be able to do what the previous president, Harris Miller, was unable to do? For while Miller, the outspoken former APSCU president, lobbied aggressively on behalf of proprietary online colleges, he was unable to effectively eliminate doubts about the quality and efficacy of online learning-despite research indicating that online learning develops worker capacity, shrinks the achievement gap, and economically enfranchises a segment of the population that has been forgotten by traditional academic institutions (for example, Bennett, Lucchesi, and Vedder, 2010). Miller’s term was marred by stricter federally legislated oversight amid concerns over admissions practices, graduation rates, cost, and default rates. The legislation requires schools to provide prospective students with information on rate of program completion, average student debt, and degree related employment data.
Unfortunately, the public’s negative opinion of online schools and for-profit education in particular has been shaped by the few bad apples in the bunch that act as virtual diploma mills and that mislead susceptible first-generation-college-goers. Consequently, one of Gunderson’s primary objectives will be to build industry-wide legitimacy by furthering the ‘completion agenda’ without alienating ASPCU membership, according to Inside Higher Ed. Gunderson’s history as a coalition builder and “advocate for workforce investment and for nontraditional students” will serve him well as ASPCU president. The industry and all online university graduates need an unbiased and respected voice to highlight online learning’s positive outcomes.
Online schools have the potential to sustain and build America’s global economic, research, and cultural leadership. Find the online schools that offer comprehensive student support services (academic tutoring and advising, career assistance, technological support, digital resources, and financial aid counseling), whose faculty has been trained to deliver effective online instruction, and whose courses have interactive, media-rich, and reflective content through the University Bound network.
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Does it make sense to rank all online bachelors programs together?
January 10, 2012: US New—Education Sector released its inaugural rankings of online bachelors programs and online graduate nursing, business, education, computer information technology, and engineering programs. To student dismay, US News failed to deliver due diligence—the majority of prospective and enrolled online learners have undergraduate status (Allen & Seaman, 2007, p6-7), yet for some reason US News ranked all online undergraduate programs together. US News’ implicit assumption seems to be that online bachelors programs are equal and not worth differentiating.
Is this the truth? Is an online undergraduate program in nursing the same as a business program? Is, for example, the quality of instructional interactivity and student services for online undergraduate web design programs the same as the quality of the instructional interactivity and student services for online undergraduate education programs? Does this assumption invalidate their findings? Shouldn’t US News have divided online bachelors programs by subject, as it did for graduate programs?
US News’ aggregate approach to ranking online bachelor’s programs limits its usefulness. Students seeking quality and unbiased information regarding online associate and bachelor degree programs need programmatic information. Where is the true consumer advocate?
Search University Bound's database for online bachelors programs!
In 2010, University Bound began researching and compiling data at the program level for thebenefit of online students. University Bound is the unbiased student resource for online education, the true consumer advocate.
University Bound’s methodology is based on factors that are important to the average online student. The system underlying University Bound’s Online School Guide values the student perspective. University Bound’s rankings evaluate faculty quality, student services, and student engagement (similar to US News); however, in addition, University Bound’s rankings are divided by undergraduate program. This dimension adds significant value for the consumer.
University Bound’s Online School Guide, which ranks undergraduate degrees by program, will be released soon. In the meantime, search University Bound’s database of more than 5000 online certificate and degree programs to find your college.
Posted in College Search Online College Online Programs Schools Online by .
Jan 12
4
Advantages of Schools Online
University Bound is the unbiased student resource for Schools Online!
Today, you can easily use the Internet to find schools online. You should be able to find options, and choose the program that you want. Be aware that not all educational programs are available online, but on the other hand, the online offerings available today are still a big step forward for education. With schools online, you are able to obtain the learning and training you need directly from the comforts of your own home. This allows you to continue other tasks including a full-time job or taking care of a family. This style of learning should appeal to a number of students who thought they may have missed out on the chance to pursue the career they wanted. The motivation may be different but the goal is the same; getting a diploma.
Find Schools Online at University Bound!
Employment opportunities are not the same for those who armed themselves with a college degree, and those who have not. But now, you can overcome this obstacle with the help of schools online. Learning online can make earning a college degree possible, even if you don’t have the time to go to school on a daily basis just to attend classes. There are a number of online courses that you can choose from. If you have a career in mind that you want to pursue, you should check and see if the training is offered online.
It is a known fact that not all people are given the privilege to go to college right after high school. This is a true and very sad reality that we have to face, often financial obstacles stand in the way. But this may be one of the reasons that schools online came about to existence; the advantages of online learning are limitless. If you think about it, the cost of running schools online can be much cheaper than that of traditional schools.
By taking online courses, you will receive the same training that is offered in a traditional classroom, and will be qualified for the same licensure or advanced opportunities. The main difference is that schools online have been developed to accommodate more students, but still without sacrificing the quality of the education delivered.
As learners, we have to face the reality that some programs or courses do not fit the online setting. While there are many subjects that can be thoroughly learned through extensive reading and studying, other subjects require a more personal, hands-on teaching method. In conclusion, online learning is not for all courses and not for everyone.
Posted in Accredited Schools College Search Schools Online by .
Dec 11
18
Online Certificate Programs
Online certificate programs are great for professionals who need to acquire advanced specialization.
Discover the benefits of online certificate programs for yourself. Apply today!
Online certificate programs allow working professionals to stay up to date on the latest indusry specific advancements. For example, you can earn a certificate in subjects ranging from ESL instruction to Google analytics, from SQL to corporate finance. Online certificate programs are valuable resources that can help qualify professionals for promotion or career change.
There are more than 1000 accredited colleges and universities offering online certificate programs. Search the University Bound database today.There are colleges that only offer online classes, there are colleges that offer blended learning environments (a mixture of online and face-to-face instruction); and there are colleges that only offer both formats, classroom based instruction and distance based instruction. The option to learn online has increased educational choice, which should translate into better quality as consumers learn to choose wisely. Choosing wisely means enrolling an academic program that has the greatest chance of increasing economic attainment and personal satisfaction.
Online certificate programs open doors for individuals who want to pursue more education but have obligations that prevent them from enrolling in a traditional ground school. There are a lot of courses and programs for prospective students to choose from. The University Bound school search tool can help guide you to the online certificate program that is right for you. The University Bound database searches more than 5000 online programs in fields ranging from IT to education, from business to the arts. There is an online certificate program for almost every type of academic and career interest.
Online certificate programs allow people to take advantage of learning opportunities without sacrificing a job. This flexibility is one of the most beneficial aspects of learning online. Online certificate programs enable students to work a regular day job, while completing course work at night, on the weekend, or before work in the morning. Online learning provides access to course materials everywhere; all that is required is a secure Internet connection. Participate in discussions, read assigned material, complete assignments, and research anywhere and anytime. Optimize your productivity.
Online certificate programs are great for professionals who need to acquire advanced specialization or a specific skill set. The quality programs provide student support services (academic tutoring and advising, career guidance, and financial aid counseling). Your tuition is paying for these services, so use the resources that the school has provided to make sure that you are successful. Interact with faculty as much as possible. Develop relationships with peers. Network. Discover the benefits of online certificate programs for yourself. Apply today!
Posted in Online Programs Online Study Schools Online by .
Dec 11
17
Distance Learning Degree Programs
The Discipline of a Distance Learning Degree
A distance learning degree is an investment in yourself and in your future.
Distance learning degrees expand the educational system and increase the choices available to prospective students. They serve a portion of society that has been neglected by the academic world, disenfranchised from the labor force, and too often shunned by society. Distance learning programs are a valuable option for a large portion of society.
Distance learning degrees are valuable because everyone is not able to enroll in a college that operates in the traditional format, classroom-based face-to-face instruction. Furthermore, everyone is not suited to learning in the traditional classroom-based, face-to-face format either. Some students prefer to learn independently, at their own convenience, and in their own space. Some students don’t live near major ground schools. Some students have obligations, like work or family, that prevent them from being able to enroll in a ground school. These types of students are ideally suited for distance learning degrees.
Distance learning degrees have been researched, and it has been proven that the rigor of online learning is on par with traditional classroom based instruction. In fact, some argue that online learning is more challenging than the traditional format. Earning a distance learning degree takes discipline, effective study habits, and a strong sense of personal motivation. Students need to be responsible for their own learning, the completion of assignments, and their progress toward the completion of the academic program. It all boils down to the discipline. Online students have to make sure that they will be able to complete the modules and acquire the knowledge and skills to graduate and qualify for employment. Students need to choose their schools and programs wisely.
Education is really important. It increases earning potential, career stability, and personal satisfaction with life. A distance learning degree gives the down-and-out a fighting chance. There are a lot of people stuck in menial jobs struggling just to make ends meet. It’s a sad reality evident throughout America. The right education can help them earn a place in the labor force; it can improve their lives; it can simplify life. To qualify for a ‘good job’, applicants have to have the right educational credentials, especially in this competitive economy. Most companies require some degree or certification, because they want some assurance that the applicant is capable of completing his or her assigned duties. A distance learning degree provides this assurance.
A distance learning degree is an investment in yourself and in your future. Take a step towards better pay and a better career. If not now, then when? Apply today!
Posted in Distance Learning Online Degrees Online Programs by .
Dec 11
6
Consider Scholarships
Win a scholarship to finance your education
University Bound's scholarships make the winners smile
Your education is an investment. Investments require funds, and when we talk about education, we are talking about a substantial investment. The four year total of tuition and fees can be in excess of $100,000. Fortunately, there are a number of different scholarships available. Legitimate scholarships involve some sort of application process and review by a selection committee. Because there are many deserving scholarship candidates, these contests can be highly competitive. Increase your chances of winning scholarships.
A number of different companies, organizations, and educational institutions offer scholarships that can help finance your higher education. Scholarships are awarded for a variety of reasons; for example, they can be granted to students who are gifted in a particular academic area or to students of a particular ethnicity or gender. When searching for scholarships, first determine your attributes-your strengths. Then look into universities and companies associated with your degree of interest to find out if they have a scholarship program. As a condition of the scholarship, some companies or institutions might require you to work for them for a certain number of years after graduation. However, as the job market is competitive, a guaranteed job upon graduation is an additional bonus.
Scholarships are often awarded to those with the potential to excel in a certain field, and their academic progress may be monitored by the awarding organization. This is much like an investor who closely watches his or her investments. This means that the scholarship winner needs to be at his or her academic best at all times, because he or she will be held to a certain standard of academic excellence. Failing to maintain the standard of academic excellence may result in the loss of the scholarship. Be confidant that you’ll be a able to maintain the grades to keep your scholarship.
Finishing the application process can be a real challenge, so make sure that you are prepared. Application letters are a very common scholarship requirement. Write your application letter confidently. Your letter needs to persuade a selection committee that you are a worthy candidate. However, there isn’t specific formula for the perfect application letter, because the requirements generally vary from one contest to the next.
If you don’t land a full scholarship, you can still look into other forms of financial assistance (for example, Federal, state, and institutional need based grants and loans). Furthermore, you should be able to find a number of colleges and companies that offer partial scholarships. These partial scholarships are generally less competitive and easier to acquire than full scholarships.
There are a lot of different scholarships around the world that you can take advantage of to help finance your college degree. University-Bound even offers a scholarship.
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The Shape and Size of an Online University Degree
Measure the Onlne University Degree that fits
Degrees from online universities come in all shapes and sizes. There are associates, bachelors, and graduate degrees. Online universities offer programs in everything from the arts and humanities, to business, from IT to healthcare, from psychology to education. There are basic online and highly interactive programs. There are schools that offer academic advising, tutoring, career guidance, and financial aid counseling. There are online universities whose cost per credit is less than one hundred dollars, and there are online universities whose cost per credit is over five hundred dollars. Finding the online university degree that’s right for your lifestyle, that matches your interests, and that will help you realize your career goals has never been easier.
Online Versus Traditional
Online learning is not inferior to face-to-face learning. In fact, a 2009 study found that learning outcomes are higher in distance based programs as compared to the outcomes of the traditional classroom format. Evaluation of Evidence-Based Practices in Online Learning: A Meta-Analysis and Review of Online Learning Studies sought to answer four research questions:
1. How does the effectiveness of online learning compare with that of face-to-face instruction?
2. Does supplementing face-to-face instruction with online instruction enhance learning?
3. What practices are associated with more effective online learning?
4. What conditions influence the effectiveness of online learning?
Barbara Means (educational psychologist and lead author of the SRI International study) said that “the study’s major significance lies in demonstrating that online learning today is not just better than nothing — it actually tends to be better than conventional instruction” (NY Times).
Despite the SRI International study’s findings, doubts persist about the educational quality of online programs. According to the Babson Survey Research Group report Going the Distance: Online Education in the United States, 2011, which surveyed more than 2,500 academic administrators and institutional leaders, one third of respondents question the educational value of online programs. “There continues to be a consistent minority of academic leaders concerned that the quality of online instruction is not equal to courses delivered face-to-face.” Nevertheless, “65% of higher education institutions now say that online learning is a critical part of their long-term strategy.” Online education is not an overnight sensation that will quickly fade away.
Choosing the Right Online University Degree for You
Given that online learning has been shown to produce better outcomes than those of classroom settings, and because there are online university degrees in almost every shape and size, consider enrolling in an online university to advance your career, to change industries, or to realize your personal ambitions.
Select the online school that suits your lifestyle, financial limitations, academic interests, and career goals. Be confidant in the educational quality that online colleges provide.
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What are the advantages of Online Universities for students?
One of the most beneficial advancements in education are online universities. As suggested by the name, they are educational institutions with university accreditation which offer certain programs, certificates, and degrees via the Internet.
The value of online university’s include:
Increased college choice. Enrollment is open to all who want to seek admissions and meet educational requirements – minimum of GED/High School Diploma. The chance to learn should not be denied anyone. Education is a fundamental Human Right, according to the UNESCO, UNDP, and many other international sanctioning bodies.
Online universities mean: no stress of worry about moving, which usually means a number of sacrifices or difficulties — for example, separation from family and friends, additional expenses, and adjusting to a new area.
OR
Online Universities mean: move wherever you want while attending an Online University. All you need is a reliable Internet connection. Explore the world while earning a degree.
Don't get frsutrated! Enroll in an online university that offers comprehensive student support services.
Expand your career options by attending an Online University
A number of potential candidates waste away at menial jobs because they missed out on the chance to go to school. Go after that dream career and escape the job you hate to work in a more enjoyable atmosphere. This time, be determined to go after what you want.
If not for online education, some people may not have the opportunity to finish a college degree. Distance education revives the hopes and dreams of those who feel as though they may have missed out on their chance to go after an education and a career. Sadly, some people take higher education for granted.
Learn about Financial Aid and Scholarships through University-Bound
Another sad truth is that education is not cheap. Online universities allow you to maintain your job and save money on food and commuting expenses. Online universities are a win-win situation.
They say that education is one thing that can never be taken from you. Invest in yourself and your future; it will definitely benefit you. Let University-Bound guide you to the best Online University.
If you are having a hard time finishing an advanced degree, you should look into online education. Online education offers many program options to complete a vocational, associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree; or earn a professional certificate to qualify for promotion and advance your career. Finishing an advanced degree opens doors to personal and career fulfillment.
Online education allows you to learn from the comfort of your own bed.
It is almost impossible to secure the financially and personally rewarding careers without the right academic credentials. When combined with relevant work experience, online education solidifies your qualifications; that is, a diploma from an accredited online university provides you with the credentials needed to secure that good job.
Working professionals and non-traditional students may not have a schedule that permits enrollment in a traditional university setting. Because online education is flexible (one of the primary advantages of distance learning), working professionals and non-traditional students can earn an advanced degree and develop the skills needed to enhance their qualifications.
The diversity of courses offered through online colleges continues to increase. This means that you should be able to find the program that you need or are interested in at an accredited online institution. Don’t let the chance to pursue the career that you’ve always dreamed of pass you by. Take advantage of the University-Bound search tool that will match you with the best online school for you.
If you have a school preference, it will not be an issue. The University-Bound network will guide you through the process. Use our database of over 5000 online programs and schools to research your school-of-interest and discover if it offers the course of study that you want. If your preferred school does not offer that particular online program, University-Bound will match you with the best college program for your online education. Discover the advantages of online education and let your options expand.
Distance learning removes geographic limitations. You now have access to the country’s best schools because of online education. This is especially advantageous if you maintain a full-time job or if you are a parent. Your responsibilities may prevent you from attending a traditional college, but don’t let them stop you from qualifying for the job you deserve. Enroll at an online college today.
If you believe as we at University-Bound believe (that everyone regardless of gender, race, or age has the right to pursue happiness), then online education is your right for you. At University-Bound you will find information to help you make the educated choice about your future. Because of online education, your options have increased. We encourage you to exercise this option. You will not have any problem finding the course or program of your choice, and the best part is you can learn when it is convenient for you. Study and complete assignments when you have the time; whether its night or day, online education allows you the flexibility to study when you can. You can study at night and work in the morning, or study in the morning and work at night; it’s up to you.
The quality online colleges provide comprehensive student services (tutors, financial aid and academic advisers, and career counselors) who will answer your specific questions and work with you to ensure that you’re getting the support you need to succeed. What you need is the determination to learn and the motivation to finish your schooling. If for some reason you had to stop your higher education and you already have a number of credits accomplished, you might be able to transfer them to your new institution. The amount of credits that will transfer depend on the particular university and specific program that you select.
Online education caters to those who are unable to spend time commuting to a traditional ground-college setting. Imagine the time you’ll save when you eliminate the commute to and from classes. You could save hours of precious time for you to focus instead on other important things, like your social life. Then at the end of the day when you are home, you can give your full attention to the task at hand, your education. Online education allows those who need more flexibility to earn an advanced degree. Take advantage of the opportunities that technological advancements have provided and enroll in an online program today. Begin living the dream; earn the job you’ve always wanted. Explore the University-Bound network to learn more.
Posted in College Search Distance Learning Online College Online Education Online Study by .
The Internet offers benefits to millions of people around the world, from gathering news, vital information or finding answers to questions about anything under the sun, to photos and images, online shopping, banking, and even education. Today, online education are more accepted and recognized than in years past.
More and more people are finding ways to earn a degree. Whether you are an undergraduate aiming for a master’s degree or looking to expand your knowledge and skills to become more learned overall, you can search for online courses through accredited universities where you can opt to enroll. There are so many things to consider before you make a final decision of obtaining a degree online.
A vital step that you can take is to check the reputation of the university that you are considering. You may also check student feedback and reviews to gain an idea of what to expect should you decide to enroll. A word of caution, ensure that the course or degree that you are planning to take is accredited.
Different people have different reasons to pursue a higher education degree. No matter the reason, one thing is certain—anyone wanting to learn is definitely aiming for success in life and career. Nowadays, many people prefer to take online courses. Anyone who wishes to fulfill the requirements of their chosen degree but does not have the ability to physically attend daily classes can still make their dreams a reality.
Online university degrees offered by accredited universities are similar to a classroom experience. A student who opted to take an online course still has to do just as much studying, research and work on assignments, just as a student in a ground school. The only difference is that the majority of the subjects are provided online, so there is no need for a face-to-face meeting. Each course contains reading materials and activities that require as much work and effort as taking the course on campus. Online education will soon become the most preferred and popular way to earn a degree and will become a widely accepted method of learning while working or taking care of a home or business.
Get to know a great and cost-effective way to move you career forward by taking advantage of the quickest and easiest route to obtain an online degree. Many young professionals in the corporate world face stiff competition, hence the need to continuously hone their skills. The only way they know how to stay at the front of the rat race is to complete further studies in pursuit of career advancement.
Online university degrees allow you to study and learn at your own comfortable pace, so programs offered in this fashion are perfect for working students like stay at home moms, business owners and persons with physical disabilities. Online degree programs are not necessarily cheaper, but they may cost less if you compare the costs that you will incur taking the course on campus. In fact, studying online is cost efficient since most learning materials are provided electronically, saving you a great deal of money on buying textbooks and other reference materials. You also save on the cost of travel.
Online university degrees foster interaction with other students enrolled in online education programs. Whether you are a graduate or undergraduate student, you are presented with convenient choices that make learning and obtaining a degree easier. The system is actually better compared to the conventional way of learning because you have the freedom to control your own time. This is why many executives and businessmen are taking online courses to acquire the skills and knowledge to make sound decisions based on accepted analytic methodologies. Online learners acquire knowledge through self-initiated studies, sans the teacher. One should be prepared to do more reading and comprehension.
People who have a profound desire to pursue higher education but cannot seem to squeeze schooling in to their busy schedules can now realize their dreams. The World Wide Web offers information on a multitude of topnotch universities that are accredited to offer undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Be sure to make informed choices. Look for online programs whose materials are simple to understand, that provide review sections, and that cover broad as well as specific concepts. Weigh the pros and cons and then go in for the best provider of online university degrees. It is smart to go for the school that best fits your requirements and lifestyle.