I am a mother of 5 girls- the oldest just finished her first year at college and the youngest will be starting kindergarten in the fall. I have a BA and am considering going back to school to finish my masters and getting a teaching certificate.
I have been looking into online schools and am wondering if anyone has had any experience with this? Did you feel you were missing out by not being in a classroom setting? Are online degrees as respected as traditional college degrees? Is there any advice you can give me based on your experience?
Thanks!
#1 by Surviving Daily on April 16th, 2010
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Hi! I am currently enrolled with the University of Phoenix. I haven’t had any complaints thus far and am in my 3rd block. They do 9 week classes, which counts as a block, so you get the work done quicker. You have to do discussion questions, so its not like the class doesn’t communicate. I prefer to do classes on my own time. And with kids, it will be SO MUCH EASIER for you to do the same. It’s easier to schedule appointments, work, handle home and anything else. You won’t miss school due to being sick either. As far as I know, University of Phoenix is one of the top ranked online schools too. I like it and I am expecting my first child in Aug., so needless to say I don’t have to schedule around school.
#2 by LuvDylan on April 16th, 2010
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I would be very careful about online degrees. Mainly check about the cost. There may be a cheaper method – like get the teaching cert and let your job help pay for the master’s degree. Unless you have lots of tuition money, check out the local universities, and only do online if it is reasonable compared to “classroom” degrees.
#3 by Raheel on April 16th, 2010
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May be this site can help you
http://www.sgpak.com
#4 by jgruban on April 16th, 2010
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Going back to school is a big step- even if you’re taking it in the online classroom.
Earning an advanced degree is a great career move, and is usually accompanied by an increase in salary, which will be beneficial when your youngest begins her college education.
Have you already earned credits towards your masters? Before you pick a program, be sure to make sure your credits , if applicable, transfer towards your degree; this will save you money and time! (check the first link for schools offering teaching degrees)
Also, what area of teaching are you looking to go into? Elementary ed, special ed, secondary ed? (check links 2 and 3)
Finally, I’ve added a link to an article about online degrees and their credibility. Careerbuilder.com was quoted as saying that 61% of employers accept and view online degrees as comparable to on-campus degrees. If you already know where you want to work, be sure to ask them this prior to enrolling in a program; also, they might even PAY for you to go back, since your advanced education will enhance their institution.
Good luck!
#5 by johnnyfundae on April 16th, 2010
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In my experience online degrees are treated basically the same as a degree from a campus program. Although, just like campus programs some schools, programs and degrees are viewed more fondly than others. I would make sure that any schools you are looking at are accredited and I would look into a number of schools so that you can decide which one is the best fit for you, your tuition requirements, schedule and reputation. I did a search for accredited masters degrees in teaching and this site appears to have good information and some schools for you to check out.