Deciding to pursue a graduate degree is a big decision. Choosing between online or in-person programs can add another layer of complexity. Online graduate programs offer flexibility, convenience, and a range of options, but they are not for everyone. With an increase in online learning since the start of 2020, the popularity of a fully remote college education is only increasing. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if online graduate school is right for you.

YOUR LEARNING STYLE

Online graduate programs require a ton of self-motivation, organization, and the ability to work independently. Programs are going to vary in terms of the amount of work you actually do on your own. Programs offer a variety of different lecture styles including self-paced, hybrid, or live classes via video conference.

This is an important detail to consider when looking for online graduate programs. If you prefer a more structured and hands-on learning experience, an in-person program may be a better fit. If you’re unsure of your learning style, check out this Free Learning Style Quiz.

YOUR SCHEDULE

Online graduate programs offer a ton of flexibility! With that flexibility comes responsibility. If you’re considering completing an online graduate program, you have to be able to manage your time effectively. Effective time management requires practice and consistency, so be patient and persistent in your efforts.

Here are some general tips that help with time management:

• Set clear goals and prioritize tasks. Goals will help you prioritize your tasks and ensure that you are focusing your time and energy on the most important things.
  
• Create a daily or weekly schedule with designated times for study, work, exercise, and leisure activities. Be specific! Make sure to schedule times for breaks, meals, and chores as well.
  
• Avoid multitasking and minimize distractions. While it may be tempting to try to do multiple things at once, research shows that multitasking can actually decrease productivity. Try to mute your phone notifications or use something like noise-canceling headphones when studying.

your location

This is one of the greatest things about getting a degree online, you can do it from anywhere (kind of). When looking into online programs, you have to ensure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection. If your program requires you to be on video chat, it’s important that you have a dedicated space for your studies that’s quiet and distraction-free. While we all love our coffee, attending class in a public cafe or coffee shop probably isn’t the most conducive learning environment.

Speaking of coffee, I myself am currently an online graduate student! I love blogging in my (very limited) free time so if you found this blog helpful, check out my Ko-fi account to buy me a cup of coffee!

YOUR GOALS

Online graduate school might sound like a dream, but there are some things to take into consideration before applying. You’ll need to ask yourself, what you actually want to achieve with your degree. If you are looking to build a network or conduct research, an in-person program may offer more opportunities to connect with others within your field. Other things to consider are that some online programs might require a brief portion of on-campus requirements such as orientation or seminars.

YOUR BUDGET

Online programs may be more cost-effective than in-person programs, but they still require a financial investment in terms of tuition. In-person graduate programs usually involve living near or on campus. If you’re not already close to a university, this means you’ll have to move to a new location. Moving costs alone are enough to make people reconsider in-person programs. Some in-person programs also require specific equipment, school supplies, and a professional wardrobe, so keep in mind that beyond tuition there are other costs not usually listed in the tuition and fees.

Online classes also come with their own set of financial considerations. Some things to consider when considering an online program: having reliable and stable internet could cost more than an average internet plan, paying for child care to ensure you have a distraction-free environment, and having updated technology like a laptop, camera, or tablet.

Overall, online school provides a different learning experience from in-person school, with its own set of advantages and challenges. While it may offer more flexibility, it can also require greater discipline and self-motivation from students. Additionally, the virtual nature of online school may require students to develop new skills in areas such as digital communication and time management.

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