Picture this: you’re considering pursuing an online degree to advance your career or achieve personal goals, but you’re a bit hesitant. It’s natural to feel uncertain about embarking on a new educational journey, especially if you’ve never experienced online learning before. However, I want to assure you that earning an online degree at your own pace is not only possible but also highly rewarding.
When it comes to online education, it’s important to note that it doesn’t try to replicate the traditional classroom setting. Instead of being tied to a specific location and schedule, an online degree allows you to maintain your regular routine. You can prioritize schoolwork when it suits you best and learn at a pace that fits your lifestyle.
For example, at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), online courses typically involve a combination of discussion posts, readings, academic papers, and other assignments on a weekly basis. You’ll have consistently scheduled due dates, giving you the flexibility to complete your coursework day or night, in chunks or gradually. The shorter terms of 8 weeks for undergraduates and 10 weeks for master’s level students allow you to register for courses year-round. You can even double up on courses when you have the capacity or take a term off when needed.
Now, let’s take a look at how six students have successfully pursued online degrees at their own pace:
1. Tracey Burraston: Tracey, a mother of five with a full-time job and living in a rural area, was able to tackle her online psychology degree in chunks. Despite challenges like a potential internet outage due to a snowstorm, her academic advisor at SNHU was always there to support her and ensure her success.
[Image: Tracey Burraston with the text Tracey Burraston]
2. Parker and Jessica Bryant: Being an active-duty military family, attending a traditional brick-and-mortar school was not feasible for the Bryants due to frequent moves and deployments. Thanks to online education, Parker and Jessica could continue their studies while managing the demands of military life. Their instructors at SNHU were understanding and accommodating, allowing them to navigate their new schedules.
[Image: Jessica and Parker Bryant with the text Jessica and Parker Bryant]
3. Elanna Rubenstein: As a coverage producer for a major sports network with demanding work hours, Elanna found that pursuing an online master’s program was her only option. She appreciated the flexibility of online learning, which enabled her to balance her coursework with her work schedule, even during busy periods like the football season.
[Image: Elanna Rubenstein with the text Elanna Rubenstein]
4. Latisha Aguilar: Latisha had previously attended college but was unsure of her career direction. After becoming a mother and gaining professional experience, she transferred almost 90 credits to SNHU and completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a concentration in child and adolescent development. The flexibility of the 8-week terms and transfer credits allowed her to finish her degree faster than expected, all while raising four children and working full-time.
[Image: Latisha Aguilar with the text Latisha Aguilar]
5. Blake Venable: When Blake decided to pursue his bachelor’s in accounting, he initially anticipated taking on loans to pay for school. However, after talking to an advisor at SNHU, he realized that the program was not only affordable but also flexible enough to integrate into his existing responsibilities. By paying for his education out of pocket and transferring credits from his associate degree, Blake cut his time to complete his bachelor’s in half, saving both time and money.
[Image: Blake Venable with the text Blake Venable]
These stories highlight the many ways in which online education can fit into your life and help you achieve your goals. The flexibility and support provided by SNHU and other online colleges make it possible for students to balance their education with work, family, and other commitments.
So, if you’re considering going back to school but unsure if you can manage it, I encourage you to take the leap and explore the possibilities of online education. It can be a transformative experience that not only supports your professional growth but also fosters personal growth. At SNHU, and institutions like it, you’ll find a community committed to your success and dedicated faculty and staff who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of online learning.
Remember, a degree can truly change your life. Find the online degree program at SNHU that aligns with your goals and get started on your educational journey today.
Featured Image: Online college grad Tracey Burraston and her daughter, with the text Tracey Burraston ’15, BA in psychology.
