Articles & Resources > General >

The Benefits of Choosing Online Education

The Benefits of Choosing Online Education

A woman sitting on the couch at home, working on her laptop smiling, and a blue banner at the bottom of the image that says "Online Education".

Last Updated March 8, 2024

What is Online Education?

Online education is a new contender in the world of higher education and comes in several distinct types depending on the degree or certification offered. Many programs have schedules that are considerably open, where students have the ability to view lectures and submit assignments at their own pace.

At the other end of the spectrum, online education can include preset requirements for students at a particular time and place, such as an online classroom. Others navigate the boundaries between traditional and online education, requiring students to attend certain functions in person.

This article highlights some of the positive aspects of online education and describes how it might fit your circumstances.

5 Notable Benefits of Online Learning

Convenience – In an online classroom, you can study from anywhere at any time. Although some programs do make use of fixed meeting times, the vast majority of courses allow students to complete assignments at their own pace. For students with unpredictable schedules, whether from work or from family obligations, the convenience of online education opens up the possibility of pursuing a degree or certification in a way not previously possible.

Access for students – Urban students sometimes take for granted the ease with which they can enroll in local classes. For the many prospective students living in rural communities, however, local education options may be lacking. Online education offers rural students who might otherwise not have access to a nearby college the ability to study and earn an education.

Students with disabilities may also find access to online education liberating. Online education often supports these students with specially tailored web platforms, eliminating the need to locate and navigate around an on-ground college equipped with appropriate accommodations.

Cost – While the cost per credit of an individual degree or certificate program online may be close to the cost of traditional programs, the overall cost of earning an education online may still be significantly lower. Online education takes collateral costs such as transportation or housing out of the picture. Some programs also remove the burden of paying for textbooks, instead offering free digital materials that students can download to their devices.

Learning environment – The freedom from physical classrooms can also offer benefits beyond a school commute. When studying, students can work in environments they find most comfortable. For some students, this may mean a local coffee shop or library, while others may find home to be the best location for studying and completing assignments.

Continue working – Earning a degree or certification online often will not require taking time away from work. The flexibility of online education allows student professionals to continue with their careers while taking classes. Although studying during what would otherwise be free time may sound like a bit of an overload, many full-time professionals manage to juggle both work and studies without issue.

Online Education Through Villanova University

Villanova University’s 100% online programs offer maximum flexibility to students of diverse backgrounds and life experiences, and are designed to fit your busy schedule. If you desire to earn a degree or certificate but have not yet found yourself with the ability to do so, the benefits of online education may allow you to pursue your goals and succeed.