Sunday, September 28, 2008

University Degrees Online - Another Option to Get Ahead

Used to be that humans are more inclined to follow traditions and preserve them. As modern technology continuously develops and unfolds, so many traditions begin to evolve too. In education, many of the traditional are still around but, these have branched out to some more technologically inclined versions to adapt to an ever-changing society.

People accepted distance learning when it was introduced. Now, through the use of the Internet, the education system is adjusting again, and adapting. Many people now prefer to get their online degrees instead of getting them the old, traditional way in school. Seeing this trend, many of the reputable universities and colleges have started to develop programs and curricula that they can offer to this niche. So, there are three prongs in getting educated now - schools, distance learning schools, and online schools.

To start getting an online university degree, you will need to get a copy of the Proof of Accreditation or PA from the local or regional governing body for education accreditation. Once you get a copy, you also need to prepare your bio-data, and all documents related to your previous education. The online university degree you're considering should be from a reputable university. Check the course outline and the curriculum. It is up to you to double-check on the school first before you start paying for your online degree.

Of all the schools that are equipped with facilities for online university degrees, Colombia University and Kaplan University are the more poplar ones. The online degree is a great option if you really need to have one.

Before you visit Jamaica check out our accredited online university degree courses and also our university online degree program tips.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

How to Get Into a Great College

Beginning the college process can be a daunting task because there is no fixed formula for getting into college and moreover, whatever combination of courses one studied at high school makes no difference in the success rate of getting admission to your dream school. Grades, SAT/ACT scores, and class rank are certainly looked into, but while doing well in all three may be enough to get you into some schools, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll get into all your choices. In fact, even students with perfect SAT scores and straight A's are sometimes denied admission by some of the more elite colleges and universities. Here are some tips that will help you navigate the admissions process and succeed in your application.

You must know that selective colleges have more qualified applicants than their limit. This is where extracurricular activities come into play. In fact, extracurricular activities can often tilt the decision in your favor when compared to other students with equivalent grades/test scores but without much in the way of activities because they demonstrate your motivation and time-management skills. You should remember to inform college if pursuing academics and an after-school job or any other extenuating circumstances. According to The Princeton Review, highly selective schools generally place emphasis than average on a good essay. The essay questions on college applications are usually very open-ended, so it is prudent to talk about your experience or aspect of you or your life that was particularly meaningful.

Awards or other recognitions and achievements can weigh into your application's consideration. Be sure to inform them if you have achieved any because good colleges and universities look for leaders and achievers and not just academic performers.

Recommendations of your teachers and counselors do matter. Get a letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor who thinks you're brilliant and include it with your application packet. Similarly, if a family member went to your college of choice, you may receive (not necessarily) some preferential consideration in admissions and this could count even more if more than one family member attended the college.

Most importantly, start planning early to get into the schools you want. Do your research, collect updated information on the most sought-after colleges and universities and their admission criteria in advance. There are many online resource guides (like www.allaboutuni.com ) that assists high school students in selecting a college.

Peter M. Jones is a freelance writer who writes for websites, print media and TV serials. He can be contacted at http://www.techmagnate.com

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Ready for Online Distance Education? Read these 10 Rules first

Check to ensure the college is accredited by a legitimate accrediting agency. Accreditation means the college and its programs meet certain set educational quality and standards. This also means courses and credits acquired can be easily transferred to another accredited institution, whether online or brick and mortar college. You will stand a better chance of securing employment or promotion at work if you have an accredited degree.

Be on the look-out for unaccredited online distance education colleges otherwise known as "degree mills". There are many fake institutions granting "accreditation" to any organization willing to pay some money for it. Before you pick your college, make sure you research that it is accredited by a legit body. If you are not sure the college you wish to attend has a legitimate accreditation, consult with the United States Department of Education or CHEA to confirm.

To ensure that the degree program your are considering is aligned with your long-term educational goals, especially if you think you'll need to advance your degree (for example from bachelors to MBA), it'll benefit you to check if the online distance education institution you'd want to attend for your MBA accepts transfer credits from another online institution.

Class size is as important in online education as it is in a traditional college classroom. Do your research on the average class sizes at the online distance education institution you are considering. Small classes make it easier to interact and voice your opinion.

Find out if the faculty hold any credentials and if they are qualified to teach the program you want to enroll in. If you can dig further to find out what degrees they hold and if they are experienced in teaching online students, this will save you the distress of finding out later that your instructor is a fellow un-qualified student with no education skills.

Find out if it easy to contact your instructor or administration should you have questions or need help. The level of support offered to students varies considerably from college to college. Choose one in line with your needs and expectations.

One of the great things about online distance education programs is that you can begin almost anytime. Thus you shouldn't let anyone rush you into starting your program until you feel ready to put the time and effort it will require for you to succeed.

Verify whether during the course of your program, there are classes that will require residency or if you will be able to complete the entire program online. This will help you prepare in advance.

Most online colleges offer financial aid and tuition assistance. You'll be pleased to discover how much financial help you have available inform of loans, scholarships, financial aid and other federal loans. Some institutions even have tuition payment plans and employer-reimbursement programs. Find out if your college of interest offers such programs.

Take your time to research your best degree option and college out there. Don't settle for less than you deserve. Unlike there before when online programs were limited, now there are enormous options and colleges to choose from as most traditional colleges are already offering some programs online.