Many people want to return to their education to better their career prospects. Online college degrees are an excellent way to gain an advanced qualification for those with full and busy lives. Studying can help people to gain new skills, update existing skills and improve a CV for potential future employers. For those that want to meet specific personal and professional goals to start a new career or start a business, there will be a course to meet their needs. The flexibility of online degrees is a considerable draw for people, but it can be a challenge to balance work, family and online degree coursework.
Is an Online College Degree a Viable Option?
Yes, it’s never too late to return to your studies and the options for learning new subjects are virtually limitless. A good education can unlock a lot of doors that may be closed to you now. The studies could be a vocational course, diploma, degree or a master’s program.
| Degree | Flexibility | Avg. Salary (US) | Job Outlook (10-Year) | Typical Weekly Workload | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | High | $122,000 | Above Average | Moderate | Aspiring managers, entrepreneurs |
| Healthcare Administration | High | $117,000 | Strong | Moderate | Healthcare support staff, caregivers |
| Computer Science | Medium | $105,000 | Very Strong | High | Tech-savvy professionals |
| Psychology | High | $94,000 | Average | Moderate | Counselors, HR professionals |
| Education (K-12 or Adult) | Medium | $59,000 | Stable | Moderate to High | Teachers, trainers, parent-educators |
| Nursing (RN to BSN) | Medium | $93,000 | Strong | High | Working RNs looking to advance |
| Information Technology (IT) | High | $105,000 | Very Strong | Moderate | Tech support, analysts, career switchers |
Many people have already chosen an online learning program and earned valuable qualifications while they’ve worked and taken care of their families. All you need is a computer, a reliable internet connection and some free time. The costs of online learning programs are more affordable than traditional courses and they are eligible for financial aid. It will take some time to find a work, life and studying balance that works for you, but it is possible and extremely rewarding.
The Benefits of an Online College Degree
When it comes to a direct comparison between a traditional on-campus and in-person college degree program and an online alternative there are numerous benefits to explore.
Reduced Education Costs
Earning an education can be an expensive proposition, but with a virtual learning program there are ways to save money. First, there is no need to commute to a campus which will save a tidy sum on transportation throughout the year. Next, a student will be expected to pay thousands of dollars on physical textbooks and course materials.
In a virtual setting, these learning resources are typically built into the online course. The tuition costs are lower in an online learning program and this can equate to a considerable discount! Finally, an online learning program is eligible for the same financial aid programs as a traditional course. When all these savings are taken into account it’s no wonder that online learning programs are continuously gaining popularity.
Flexible Learning
Studying in a virtual classroom is an excellent way to continue your education and work at the same time. A traditional classroom is reliant upon your attendance in-person after a commute to take classes at set times.
When you are engaged in online learning programs, you can attend class when you like and even after working hours. This flexibility gives the student the autonomy to set a schedule that works around their existing commitments.
Improved Course Variety
An online program may have more education options because students are not required to attend the campus in-person. So, there is a greater choice and the student can enroll in a course that truly interests them. The course work can be completed at convenient times around other commitments with minimal distractions.
This is a great way to earn a degree in your chosen career and continue to work at the same time. There are a wide variety of degrees, including learning certificates, professional certifications, master’s degrees and even a doctoral degree.
Career Advancement
A virtual learning environment can provide similar opportunities for career advancement as a traditional course. Because you can continue to work and share your coursework insights your employer is likely to be impressed that you are improving your academic credentials.
There will be no gaps or periods of discontinuity in your resume for those that are not in regular employment. The self-motivation required to earn an online college degree with a virtual learning program can be clearly seen by any potential employer.
Extra Free Time
A considerable amount of time will need to be devoted to an online learning program. But, the schedule isn’t set by classes and the commute to get to them. This can free up a surprising amount of time that can be spent in other ways. Sure you could study more to earn your degree earlier, but everyone needs some downtime. Perhaps you want to spend some more time with friends and family to recharge your batteries?
Remember that all you need to study an online college degree is a digital device and a stable internet connection. Beyond those basic requirements you are in charge of how, when and where you decide to study.
A Personalized Educational Experience
Many students that attend classes in-person discover that there are too many distractions to focus on their work. It can be difficult for people that are not as assertive as others to standout in a traditional classroom setting.
Some students have found that they prefer and even thrive in an online learning program. They still get to participate in class discussions and collaborate with their peers but the pressure is limited.
A virtual learning environment is self-paced and you get to choose your optimal studying environment. Perhaps you already have a home office or maybe you can create your own dedicated studying space where distractions are minimized. You will get to choose when you complete a reading or assignment and the only consideration is the deadline.
Collaboration Opportunities
Although there are plenty of opportunities for collaboration in a traditional class, there are limitations. Because a virtual learning program is driven online by grouping tools, message boards, messaging apps and more it’s very easy to collaborate with other students. This is a great way to post and read feedback on assignments and readings and share your thoughts with others.
These tools also allow the student to have one-on-one time with the professor for networking and learning. Direct communication and the capability to upload assignments remotely for review can be a real time saver.
Learning Time Management Skills
One of the hidden advantages of online learning is that by necessity the student will have to learn time management skills. The time must be managed wisely to ensure that the assignments are completed on time around other commitments. The student has autonomy, but this comes with the responsibility to engage with the course materials.
In a traditional classroom, it’s easier to simply show up to class at the right day and time. But, when you can learn remotely there is a real need to learn and implement time management skills to succeed.
Ongoing Access to Digital Course Materials
Many students have failed in a traditional lecture environment because they don’t have the best note-taking skills. This isn’t a problem with online learning, the course materials are accessible 24/7 and you can view them as many times as you need. This is a great way to ensure that you fully understand the subject matter before you move on. In this way the course materials become a supplemental learning tool to complete the assignments.
Fast Feedback
There are clear advantages when coursework is integrated with technology. One of the best aspects of virtual learning is that you can get fast feedback rather than waiting days or weeks to learn how you did. The assignments are uploaded digitally to the professor and the feedback is submitted electronically. So, the feedback is more immediate which improves the learning speed and makes adjustments for future assignments faster.
How Can I Create Flexibility in My Work Schedule?
We have some useful tips to balance work and family commitments later in this article. But, it is fair to say that creating flexibility in your work schedule may be your greatest challenge and this is especially true if you have kids. In a job with a strict schedule, there is no flexibility to leave early to pick up kids from school which can cause havoc in a busy schedule. There are three things that you can try to implement that may make things much easier.
Go Part-Time
If you can take the financial hit and you cannot balance family, studies and a full-time job it may make more sense to go part-time. Reducing your hours will give you the time to focus on your priorities and continue at work.
Ask About a Hybrid Work Schedule
If your employer is willing to work with you or they are financing your studies they may be open to a hybrid work schedule. Perhaps you could split your time working between your home and the office on certain days. This would give you more flexibility for studying, parenting and working at your career.
Create an Early Start and Finish Schedule
If you are a morning person, you may be able to get your work finished earlier and pick the kids up on time. The employer may still be happy because you are getting the work done and you can still meet your parenting obligations.
7 Tips to Succeed in an Online Learning Program
Once you’ve chosen your online course and considered how you can continue to work at the same time it’s easy to believe that you have everything under control. This is unlikely to be as easy as you might imagine and an online college course is still a lot of extra work to handle. The good news is that many students have already succeeded and over the years they have shared plenty of useful tips.
Create a Life Plan
This goes hand in hand with the work life balance aspect of work that we discussed above. But, this encompasses so much more beyond creating blocks of time.
The best way to start is to go through everything, make notes and focus on your educational goals. Think about the career you want and the optimal personal outcomes.
Consider the important details such as the start and end date, the number of modules, the device you may need, your studying space and childcare options. If you know that a relative can look after the kids on a certain day for a few hours, you can get a lot done.
Develop a Support Network
To succeed in online learning, you must have a support network in place before the course commences. Make sure that your partner, friends, family and employer are all in the loop and 100% behind you.
A sympathetic employer that’s invested in your success can alter start times, delegate some work and more to help you study. The family can help out with some chores and avoid disturbing you during set studying sessions. Access to reliable childcare for sole parents with a babysitter or daycare centre can be a godsend. Older kids and teens can help to run the household and look after the younger kids, if they are responsible and up to the task.
Plan the Curriculum
Don’t overload your schedule with studying that could make the process more demanding. Allot shorter blocks of time and avoid devoting an entire spare day to studies. This never works out and students inevitably get side-lined into dealing with other issues.
Select the optimal study times that align with how you like to get things done. Some people are morning people and others are night owls. There are students that listen to music and others that prefer to work in silence. Spread out the work, don’t try to get all the challenging modules out of the way at the same time. Keep a healthy balance between the easier and harder modules to prevent burn out. Mark down due dates for tasks, presentations, quizzes and other coursework to keep on course.
There will be emergencies and times when kids need more attention and this should be factored into your planning. Keeping track of the schedule will help you to stay ahead and not feel overwhelmed when your plans are derailed from time to time. Front loading the coursework and fostering a positive attitude can really help you to deal with any eventuality.
Simplify What You Can
Cut back on what you can to make your life simpler and free up valuable time. Learn some simple recipes and use batch cooking to prepare multiple meals in advance. At the weekend why not have a takeaway night to have a much needed break? If you have a partner or older kids, maybe they can cook one night a week? Keep the home streamlined, tidy and well arranged to work or study when the kids are at home. Perhaps you could move the crib and toys into the living room? If a relative wants to visit maybe you can schedule that for a day that you don’t plan to study? With a little thought there are many little hacks that you can implement to make your life simpler and easier to manage.
Make the Most of Your Time
There are numerous distractions in our modern lives that can derail our plans. Opening Instagram and scrolling can make an hour fly by without even noticing where the time went.
To make the most of your available time it’s a great idea to minimize these types of distractions. To start, turn off the TV, put the phone on silent and study in a dedicated space. If you have a show that you routinely watch, take the time to watch it, don’t be a martyr, but understand that time is a very valuable resource. Planning time for rest and relaxation is extremely important, but resist the urge to procrastinate.
Make sure you have enough time to be a parent, friend and family member to stay grounded for the people you love. Even an hour with your favorite book, a short phone call or a good cup of coffee can help you to enjoy your life and stay on track.
Choose a Study Buddy
There may be other people that are studying online in your area and you may even know them. One of the best aspects of distance learning is the access to message boards and forums to share experiences. Perhaps one of your peers is located in the same area and is also a parent? Your kids could play together as you study or collaborate on a project. Maybe you can take turns watching over each other’s kids to meet deadlines.
There are no losers in this scenario, you and your kids can make friends and you get to free up time to study. Other potential resources are local libraries and community programs for working parents that offer support. If you look around you may be surprised at the local resources that can help you to meet your goals.
Spend Time in Nature
Studying indoors can be draining and this is exacerbated if the kids are climbing the walls. So, make sure that you take some time to go outside to visit the park and playground for a walk or to throw a ball around. Getting sufficient fresh air will help to release tension and ensure that everyone in the family gets adequate sleep. Make these little excursions a regular part of your planning alongside other important tasks.
