Thanks to the quickly growing online learning trend, adult students who never dreamed of going back to school now have the opportunity to work college into their busy schedules. However, online classes often come with a hefty price tag.
Is online education affordable? The answer to this question differs for all potential online learners. Here are some important factors to consider when deciding whether an online college degree is economically feasible.
The Cost of an Online Degree
First, potential online learners need to investigate and compare the costs of different online programs and schools. When looking at price tags, it's important to compute the total cost of both individual courses and programs. First, keep in mind that some schools charge by the credit, and others by the course. Second, find out how many total courses are required to earn a degree. One college might charge more per credit than another, but if the first school requires fewer courses, it may actually be the better bargain.
Remember, tuition isn't everything. When budgeting for an online degree, keep in mind additional costs such as:
- Books and other course materials
- Computer and software upgrades
- Office supplies, including electricity
- Travel expenses to any required practica
- Potential inability to take paid overtime or a part time job because of the need to study.
- Potential negative impact on current job because of decreased productivity.
- Babysitting costs incurred because of study time
Financial Aid for Online Degrees
In many cases (if not most), online students are eligible for the same kinds of financial aid benefits as students who attend traditional colleges and universities. In many cases, it's actually easier for an adult student to obtain financial aid than traditional students, since traditional students are required to report their parents' financial status until they are 24. For adult students with children and other dependents, it may be even easier to obtain financial aid.
It's important to communicate with the financial aid department of a potential online college or university to discuss the process. Online schools usually are eager to help students navigate the financial aid process because they know that without financial aid, many of their customers will be unable to afford school.
If a school is unwilling to help students find financial aid. this should raise a red flag for a potential student. Online programs need to be mindful of the needs of adult learners, and if they aren't, this speaks very poorly of the school.
Student Loans for Online Degrees
Typically, student loans are the easiest form of financial aid to obtain, even during an economic downturn. However, it's important for all students to weigh the true cost of a student loan and consider how this outstanding debt will affect them and their families. It's also important to consider job and salary prospects. If the odds of getting a high paying job are high after completing an online degree, then a hefty student loan debt might be worth it. If not, students may need to look for other options.
Employer Funded Educational Programs
Some employers are willing to pay all or part of an employee's tuition at an online college or university, especially if the employee is taking courses or earning a degree. Obviously, this is a valuable job benefit, and potential online learners may want to look for these kinds of benefits when job hunting.
Online Education: Worth the Cost?
Students need to decide for themselves whether an online degree makes sense financially. By considering the total cost of a program, including hidden expenses and loans, students can make informed decisions on the financial feasibility of distance learning.
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