Will an online or an on-campus course work better for you?

Online education is a popular alternative to attending a brick-and-mortar university, providing students with family or work commitments a chance to further their careers. If you’ve ever dreamed of getting a better job or changing industries, remote classes are certainly worth considering. However, the online study does come with a specific set of challenges that you might not have experienced in a physical learning environment. To decide which option is best suited to you, take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Traditional universities provide a structured setting

Online learners get to set their own schedule, but if you lack motivation, it may be hard to stick with it. Not everyone is at their best when working independently and some will benefit from a high level of interaction. Your attendance and performance are monitored closely on campus and you’ll find it hard to slack off in the classroom. No one is watching when you work from home, but eventually, most people will learn to study effectively without supervision.

A great education for less online

Choosing to study at home means you will save on travel and accommodation, but the degree costs are often substantially lower as well. You will still receive a high standard of education with all the help you need to graduate, but this can take place wherever you have an internet connection. Without the same overheads to cover, the Wilkes University cost per credit is far less than it would be for a comparable course on a physical campus. They have a wide selection of courses to further your career, along with information about financial aid and graduate assistantships to fund your studies

In a class situation, tutors can respond immediately

On-campus tutors have offices that are open at set times and you can make an appointment to visit when you need to. You also have the option of raising your hand in class for an immediate answer to your question. Expert help is available on a one-to-one basis, and you can also chat with your classmates after a lecture to share ideas. Online students can wait up to 24 hours for a tutor’s response and won’t usually have their direct phone number. However, if you sign up for all the scheduled chats and forums linked to your course, it may be possible to obtain a swift answer when you need one.

Campus study demands a rigid schedule of learning

Regardless of what is happening in your workplace or personal life, you have a set time to arrive at your classroom or risk missing a lecture. You’ll need to work in group situations regularly, prepare talks, and feel comfortable alongside your peers. Online learning is ideal if you are working to support yourself through college or you have to look after your children whilst studying. You can settle down with your books when the house is quiet and complete the course at a comfortable pace.