Category: Online Classroom

5 Key Facts Why Earning A College Degree Is Important

The importance of earning a college degree cannot be overstated. In today’s competitive job market, higher education opens doors to a broader range of career opportunities and offers many other benefits.

 

Here are five key facts highlighting why earning a college degree is important:

  1. Higher Earning Potential: One of the most significant advantages of obtaining a college degree is the potential for higher earnings. Numerous studies have consistently shown that individuals with higher levels of education tend to earn more over their lifetime compared to those with only a high school diploma. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, on average, individuals with an associate degree earn about $8,000 more per year than those with a high school diploma, while individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn approximately $27,000 more annually. These earnings differentials can add up significantly, making a college degree a worthwhile investment.
  2. Increased Employment: In today’s competitive job market, having a college degree significantly increases your chances of securing employment. Many employers view a degree as a minimum requirement for job applicants, especially for positions that require specialized knowledge or skills. With a college degree, you demonstrate to potential employers that you possess the necessary commitment, discipline, and intellectual capacity to succeed professionally. Furthermore, some industries and professions have specific educational requirements; with a degree, you may find yourself more in career options.
  3. Job Stability: Another compelling reason to earn a college degree is the increased job stability it can provide. While no educational credential can guarantee a job for life, statistics consistently show that individuals with higher levels of education experience lower unemployment rates and are less likely to be affected by economic downturns. During times of recession, individuals with a college degree are generally more likely to retain their jobs or find new employment than those without a degree. This job stability can provide security and peace of mind in an uncertain job market.
  4. Economic and Financial Stability: Earning a college degree benefits individuals and improves financial stability. Research has shown that societies with higher levels of educational attainment tend to experience more substantial economic growth and development. Individuals with higher education levels often have the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to innovation, productivity, and economic progress. Moreover, the higher income levels of college graduates result in increased tax revenues for governments, which can be invested in public services, infrastructure, and social programs, benefiting society.
  5. Personal Growth and Improved Self-esteem: Beyond the tangible benefits, earning a college degree can foster personal growth and improve self-esteem. College provides an environment that encourages critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and personal development. Through exposure to diverse perspectives, engaging coursework, and extracurricular activities, students can broaden their horizons, expand their knowledge base, and develop valuable communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. These experiences enhance personal growth and instill a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence that can positively impact various aspects of life.

 

Earning a college degree is very important in today’s society. It leads to higher earning potential and increases employment opportunities, job stability, and economic stability. Additionally, obtaining a degree promotes personal growth and improved self-esteem. By recognizing the numerous advantages of college education, individuals can make informed decisions about their future and position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving world.

 

Written By: Justin Hart

How Online College Prerequisites Help Students Avoid Debt, Save Money, and Save Time

The cost of a college education is rising yearly, and many students are graduating with significant debt. However, there are ways to avoid student debt, and one of them is by taking online college courses. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education.

 

Online College Courses to Avoid Student Debt

Taking online college courses can help students avoid student debt in several ways. First, online courses are often less expensive than traditional ones, saving students thousands of dollars on tuition and fees. Many online courses also offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can further reduce the cost of education. Second, online courses allow students to work while they study, which can help them pay for their education without taking out loans. Students can take online courses part-time or full-time, depending on their schedule and needs, which can help them balance their work and education.

Finally, online courses can help students graduate faster, reducing the cost of education. By taking online courses during the summer or winter breaks, students can earn credits towards their degree and complete their education earlier, saving them time and money.

 

Taking College Prerequisites Online Saves You Time and Money

College prerequisites are courses students must complete before taking higher-level courses that are also part of their degree program. These courses are typically lower-level courses in Math, English, Science, and other subjects, which are required for most majors. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education.

 

Save Time

Taking college prerequisites online can save students time in several ways. First, online courses are often more flexible than traditional ones, allowing students to study at their own pace and schedule. Students can complete coursework and assignments when convenient for them, which can save them time and help them balance their other commitments. Second, online courses often have shorter or more flexible course schedules, allowing students to complete the course faster. Some online courses are accelerated, meaning they are completed in a shorter period, such as six or eight weeks, instead of a traditional 16-week semester. This can allow students to complete the course faster and move on to finish their degree sooner.

 

Save Money

Taking college prerequisites online can also save students money in several ways. First, online courses are often less expensive than traditional courses, which can reduce the cost of education. Many online courses also offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can further reduce the cost of education.

Second, online courses can reduce the cost of textbooks and materials. Many online courses use e-books, often less expensive than traditional textbooks. Some online classes also provide course materials online, which can reduce the cost of printing and shipping materials.

 

Get a Head Start on Your College Education

Taking college prerequisites online can also help students get a head start on their college education. By completing college prerequisites online, students can knock out classes and complete their degrees faster. This can help students save time and money and enter the workforce sooner. In addition, taking college prerequisites online can help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their careers. Students can build a foundation for success by completing prerequisites online and gaining the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their careers.

 

Online college courses help students avoid debt and save time and money. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education. Online courses are flexible, less expensive, and offer financial aid and scholarships, which can reduce the cost of education. In addition, online courses can help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their education and career.

 

Written by:  Justin Hart

 

How to Balance Family, Work, and School While Taking Online College Courses

Balancing family, work, and school can be challenging, especially when taking college courses online. Juggling multiple responsibilities can often lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. However, it is possible to balance these three aspects of life with a bit of planning and effort.

 

Here are seven tips on balancing family, work, and school while taking college courses online:

 

  1. Create a Schedule and Stick To It

One of the most effective ways to balance family, work, and school is to create and stick to a schedule. List all your commitments, including work hours, class schedules, family obligations, and study time. Create a daily or weekly schedule that allows you to manage your time efficiently. You can use a planner or a digital calendar to keep track of your plan and set reminders for important deadlines and appointments.

 

  1. Prioritize Your Tasks

When you have a lot of responsibilities, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. To avoid this, you need to prioritize your tasks. Start by identifying the most important tasks that must be done each day, such as attending classes, completing assignments, and spending time with your family. Then, prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. This will help you focus on the tasks that require immediate attention and avoid wasting time on less important tasks.

 

  1. Set Realistic Goals

When you are juggling family, work, and school, it is essential to set realistic goals. Be honest about how much time you can dedicate to each task and set achievable goals. For example, if you have a full-time job and a family to care for, it may be unrealistic to aim for straight A’s in all your classes. Instead, focus on doing your best and balancing your academic and personal commitments.

 

  1. Communicate With Your Family and Employer

When you are balancing family, work, and school, it is crucial to communicate with your family and employer. Tell your family about your academic commitments and the time you need to study. Make sure they understand the importance of your education and how it will benefit your family in the long run. Similarly, inform your employer about your class schedule and any changes in your work hours. This will help them plan your workload accordingly and ensure that you have enough time to complete your assignments and attend classes.

 

  1. Take Advantage of Online Resources

You can access a wealth of online resources when you are taking college courses online. Take advantage of these resources to help you manage your time and stay organized. For example, you can use online tools such as Google Drive or Dropbox to store your class notes, assignments, and other important documents. You can also use productivity apps such as Trello or Asana to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.

 

  1. Stay Motivated

When juggling multiple responsibilities, it can be easy to lose motivation. To stay motivated, remind yourself why you pursued a college degree. Think about the benefits of education to your career and personal life. You can also join online study groups or forums to connect with other students and stay motivated.

 

  1. Take Breaks and Practice Self-care

Finally, taking breaks and practicing self-care when balancing family, work, and school is essential. Taking regular breaks will help you recharge your batteries and stay focused. It is also crucial to practice self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself will make you better equipped to handle the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities.

 

By following these seven tips, balancing family, work, and school while taking college courses online is very possible.

 

Written By: Justin Hart

The Advantages of Taking General Education Courses Online

Online college General Education courses offer several advantages for students. One of the main benefits is flexibility. Online courses allow students to attend class at their convenience rather than having to be in a physical classroom at a specific time. This is particularly beneficial for students who work or have other obligations that make it difficult to attend traditional in-person classes. Online courses also allow students to take classes from anywhere, so they can continue their education even if they move or travel.

 

Another advantage of online General Education courses is the ability to learn at your own pace. In traditional in-person classes, students may feel pressure to keep up with the pace of the class, which can be difficult for some students. With online courses, students can take the time they need to fully understand the material and complete assignments at their own pace. This can be especially beneficial for students with learning disabilities or other special needs.

 

Online college General Education courses offer a more comprehensive range of courses. Online classes are not limited by the number of students who can physically fit in a classroom, and they can be offered to a more significant number of students. This means that students have a more comprehensive range of courses to choose from and are more likely to find a class that fits their interests and career goals.

 

Online General Education courses also offer a cost-effective option for students. Online courses are generally less expensive than traditional in-person courses, as they do not require the same infrastructure or resources. In addition, students can save money on transportation and other expenses associated with attending in-person classes.

 

Online General Education courses also offer a variety of tools and resources to support student learning. For example, many online courses use interactive discussion boards, virtual collaboration tools, and online quizzes to engage students and help them learn. Online courses also often provide access to a wide range of digital resources, such as videos, podcasts, and articles that can be used to supplement the course material.

 

Finally, online General Education courses can help students develop valuable skills that are in demand in the digital age. Online courses require students to be self-motivated, organized, and able to manage their time effectively. They also need students to be able to communicate effectively and collaborate with others in a virtual environment. These skills are highly valued by employers and can be beneficial for students in any field.

 

In conclusion, online college General Education courses offer a number of advantages for students, including flexibility, the ability to learn at your own pace, a more comprehensive range of course options, cost-effectiveness, access to tools and resources to support student learning, and the development of valuable skills that are in demand in the digital age. These advantages make online General Education courses an attractive option for students looking to further their education while balancing other responsibilities.

 

Written By: Justin Hart

How to Choose the Best College Major

Choosing a college major can be complicated, as it will likely impact and shape your career and future opportunities. To make this even more challenging, these decisions are made while the individual is still very young with little if any, real-world experience to base that decision. As a very young man, I knew I was not prepared to make a decision as impactful as that, so I elected to enlist in the military like many others. I completed my enlistment, returned home, and started taking general education classes, still waiting for a clear direction on what I wanted to do for the next 40 years.

 

I landed on engineering, and while that is undoubtedly a great option, I have made multiple career changes since my days in the college classroom. Here are a few tips that may help you make the best choice for you:

 

  1. Consider your interests and passions. What subjects do you enjoy studying? What hobbies or activities do you enjoy doing? These are often good indicators of what you may be interested in pursuing as a career.
  2. Research career prospects, job outlooks, and earning potential for various majors. This will give you an idea of career opportunities after graduation.
  3. Talk to people in the field if possible. Ask them about their experiences and what they enjoy about their job. This will give you valuable insights regarding what it’s like to work in the field.
  4. Take advantage of your school’s resources and those provided by many colleges. Many schools have career days sponsored by professionals and college staff. This may help you make an informed decision.
  5. Keep your options open; you don’t have to choose a major immediately. It’s not uncommon for a student to explore different subjects before committing to a major.
  6. Consider your long-term goal and what you want to achieve in your career and personal life. This may help you land a major that aligns with your goals.

 

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a major you’re passionate about that will lead to a career you enjoy. Remember, your major doesn’t have to dictate your entire career. Switching careers or even going back to school to pursue a different field is not uncommon. While choosing a major that aligns with your interests and goals, it is also essential to remain open to new opportunities and changes throughout your life.

 

Distance Learning Systems provide many options for those contemplating a career change or starting out. With over 35 major universities to choose from and over 450 online and campus-based degree programs, this is a great place to start. You can quickly and affordably complete up to 2 years of an accredited bachelor’s degree 100% online.

 

Written By: Dave Christy

You Can’t Do That

No, I’m not referring to the B side of the Beatles album “Can’t Buy Me Love.” Many of you may have minimal knowledge of the Beatles, let alone their music. For the record, I’m in the group that lived through the British Invasion in the mid-1960s; no, that was not a military operation. I’m referring to a far too common phrase that many of us have heard in our lifetime, and worse yet, may have said to a friend or even our children. This is a psychological seed that should never be planted. While it’s true that there certainly are things we should not do in life, let’s focus for a moment on those fantastic things that we could do.

 

Let me share an example of what I mean. My youngest was born profoundly deaf, so we decided to allow her to attend a residential school out of state that was very progressive. Because most of the children, including my own, had cochlear implants, this school helped these children perfect (as best they could) their listening and speaking skills. The results were astounding. As we were doing our exit interview near the end of the elementary school years, we met with the school psychologist, and I’ll never forget what she told our daughter and us. She said we should have realistic expectations regarding what to expect from our child as she grows up. The example she gave was in the field of nursing. She said, “If your daughter decides she wants to be a nurse, she will most likely become an LPN rather than an RN.”

 

When I left that meeting and that school, I was somewhat bewildered. For five years, my daughter was taught that she could do anything, and we also believed that. We had never told our child that there was anything she could not do. Time passed, and we forgot that advice. High school ended, then on to her bachelor’s degree, followed by her master’s, and today, she is completing her thesis for her EdD at a major university. She holds a very responsible position in state government, is married, and is a homeowner. Contrary to conventional wisdom, she learned, and we supported the belief that we can accomplish almost anything of value we set our minds to and are willing to work for.

 

Unfortunately, some children have minimal confidence and belief in their abilities. It’s not unusual for a child to say, “I can’t do it!” Physical limitations may exist, but we should be our kiddo’s biggest cheerleaders. When they say this, we might try encouraging them by offering one of the following responses:

 

  1. “I know this is hard for you.” Above all, listen to your children, and let them open up and discuss the issue.
  2. “Have I ever told you about…” Please talk about your struggles or those of others close to them and encourage them to do their best. I know my daughter has a story to tell.
  3. “You can’t do this yet.” The word “yet” allows you to talk about what can happen.

 

There is no end to studies written on this topic, and I do not profess to have all the answers, but I do remember the limiting belief we could have fallen victim to years ago. We chose not to, and I hope if you are ever faced with a similar situation regarding your future, your hopes, and dreams, or those of your child, you will overcome them as well.

 

Written By: Dave Christy

Why Are Gen Eds Required for My Degree and How Can I Save Time and Money Completing Them?

If you’ve never been to college, you may ask yourself that question. Most people would much rather focus on courses that relate specifically to their chosen field of study and their career choice. The reality is that colleges and universities require from 30% to 50% of coursework to be general electives (gen eds). I know when I was younger and began my degree in engineering, I was anxious to start my core classes, but I soon learned that those courses would begin in the fourth or fifth semester. Many students may question whether gen eds are a waste of time, but is that true? First of all, all university programs require gen ed courses, so you are working your way toward your final goal. Secondly, you will learn new subjects, and you may develop a new passion. Elective courses also allow you to explore topics that interest you.

Colleges and universities want “well-rounded” graduates, and gen eds provide a comprehensive education. They promote critical thinking across multiple subjects. General education is more than what it is often perceived to be. Fundamentally, the purpose of education is not to train a student for a specific job but equips them with the skills they need to live life (Walters & Bockorn, 2018).

Once I started my gen ed curriculum, it began to make sense. I was experiencing high-level learning and then saw the value of these courses. For those of you who may not have any experience with post-secondary education, and those with limited knowledge of this subject, here are some examples of general education courses by category:

English Language and Literature:

College Composition, Oral Communication

Arts and Humanities:                                   

Arts, Music, Philosophy, Religion, Ethics, History

Social Sciences:                                    

Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Economics

Natural Science:                                            

Chemistry, Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, Microbiology

Mathematics:                                                

Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Statistics

So, we understand that gen eds are required and why, but how can we expedite the completion of these courses and save money? I’ve found that most colleges and universities nationwide provide access to and accept virtually the same courses to satisfy this requirement. One very good and very affordable option for completing these courses in the shortest time possible and for the lowest cost is through Distance Learning Systems.

Here are some of the benefits of utilizing Distance Learning Systems to satisfy this requirement.

  1. Distance Learning Systems provide a wide assortment of general education courses that satisfy most, if not all, general education requirements.
  2. All courses provided by Distance Learning Systems are ACE (American Council on Education) recommended.
  3. Distance Learning Systems has partnership agreements with over 30 of the nation’s finest universities. This guarantees the transferability of all courses completed with Distance Learning Systems into the degree-granting institution.
  4. All courses are delivered 100% online 24/7.
  5. Distance Learning Systems provide an accelerated path to over 450 online degree programs.
  6. The cost of these courses is about 56% less expensive than the average cost of university tuition.
  7. You have options when beginning a new program or returning to complete your degree. I absolutely see and appreciate the value of these general education courses, but my position has always been and will always be to maximize value and minimize time. Good luck!

 

Written By: Dave Christy

Still Waiting for the Right Time to Start College?

 

Procrastination is the killer of dreams! As a national education company owner, I witness this sad reality every day. For a year, we are contacted by as many as 20,000 adults who have unrealized dreams. This is because they, like many others, have put off the most critical tool for personal, professional, and financial growth…education.

 

There are as many reasons people delay education as there are people, but many tell us they are simply afraid. Perhaps it could be fear of failure, the ever-increasing cost of education, or simply going back and competing in the classroom with students half their age. But you must remember that it’s okay, it’s normal to feel that way, you’ll be fine.

 

Any student at any age contemplating going back to school should start by focusing on why they want to return to school. What is your WHY? I’m guessing it’s more important than your fear. Maintain that focus, establish short- and long-term goals, and remember, the secret to success is getting started. For a moment, overcoming that fear is often more difficult than completing the task. It’s important to note that over 20% of today’s college enrollments are students over 25 (Education Data Initiative); hundreds of thousands of people just like you are doing this, and so can you!

 

Distance Learning Systems has worked with adult students for over 22 years. During that time, it has structured an accelerated and affordable path to earning up to 2 years of college credit, entirely at home and 100% online. That means you can finish the first two years of college at half the cost of traditional education and in about half the time. After saving time and money in the Distance Learning Systems proven program, they will assist you in transferring your credits into one of their 32 accredited universities, where you’ll have over 450 fully online programs.

 

Here are just a few of the available degree programs:

 

Registered Nursing

Aviation-Professional Pilot

Homeland Security

Crime Scene Investigation

Investigative Forensics

Software Development

Sports Management

Cyber Security

Biotechnology

Counter Terrorism

Business Psychology

 

Your degree will be awarded by one of the top universities in the nation, and as a student of Distance Learning Systems, you may be awarded scholarships and/or reduced tuition through graduation.

 

I want to encourage you not to fear your exciting journey to personal and professional success. Please don’t look back 20, 30, or 40 years from now and realize what could have been. You’ve got this!

 

Written By: Dave Christy

The Fastest and Most Affordable Path to a College Degree — Regardless of Your Major

It’s no secret that the cost of education continues to increase year after year. Education Data Initiative reported in January 2022,” The average price of college tuition & fees at public 4-year institutions has risen 179.2% over the last 20 years for an average annual increase of 9.0%.” In most cases, wages haven’t kept pace with the cost of higher ed, so what can a prospective college student do to offset some of this cost? I want to share what I’ve learned that may help you save $10,000 to $40,000 or more!

 

Years ago, I found similarities in university degree programs, on-campus or online; most programs require several general education courses. These courses may account for up to 2 years of a 4-year degree. While that number may be smaller in programs such as medicine and engineering, tuition for these courses costs no less than those in the major area of study.

 

General education courses are required for most undergraduate degree programs. They do not change based on the major. While there are literally hundreds of college majors, most need the same general education courses. You should consult your school to determine what they require.

 

I’ve taken advantage of programs offering a cost-effective solution to this coursework for my children and grandchildren. They did not need to sacrifice the quality or transferability of these courses as they navigated their program, and we’ve saved thousands of dollars literally in the process.

 

Here are some examples of general education courses:

  • Music
  • Art
  • Philosophy
  • English Composition
  • English Literature
  • Foreign Language
  • Western Civilization
  • US History
  • Math
  • Statistics
  • Sciences
  • Sociology
  • Public Speaking
  • Psychology
  • World Religions
  • Anthropology

 

Distance Learning System offers a program you may want to consider. They provide 100% online courses that are recognized by the American Council on Education and accepted by over 30 of their top-tier university partners. These online courses cost less than half the national average and are completed online in about half the time of traditional college courses. My position has always been, why pay more for the same thing? My answer has always been that I shouldn’t.

 

If you can save 60% to 80% on the first two years of your 4-year degree and receive the same quality education, why not take advantage of the opportunity? These programs are open to high school students preparing for college or working adults interested in fast-tracking their career and income potential. Good luck in your quest for higher education.

 

Written By: Dave Christy

Professional Certificates – An Employers Perspective

Years ago, when I first started flying, my flight instructor gave me advice appropriate for anyone involved in aviation. His advice was, “never stop learning.” Indeed, that was true for a new pilot, but even in an environment where life and death are not the issues, that advice always rings true. Many years have passed since my instructor challenged me to keep learning, and in all these years, I can honestly say that I’ve never once felt like I didn’t need to know more. There are always new technologies and challenges in business, and even our personal lives present new challenges almost daily.

 

Dating back to 1597, Francis Bacon coined the phrase “Knowledge is Power,” which Thomas Jefferson used when discussing the establishment of a state university in Virginia. In 1817 he also related knowledge with power, safety, and happiness. I think it’s widely accepted that there is a quantifiable benefit to knowledge.

 

Most everyone would agree that a university education lays the groundwork for a successful professional life, but today there are options that many employers value and support. These are professional certificates. We all know that a degree may prepare the holder for almost any type of degree, but professional certification does even more. A professional certificate provides focused training for a specific career. These could be in marketing, data science & analytics, environmental, social, leadership, business, finance, or hundreds more. Certificates are earned more quickly and at a significantly lower cost than a degree and may prepare you for that dream job!

 

As an employer, I view the holder of professional certification as:

  1. A team member or applicant is someone committed to excellence
  2. A team member who is committed to growing with the organization
  3. An asset that helps build trust with clients
  4. An individual interested in a long-term relationship with our organization

 

A professional certificate holder demonstrates:

  1. Validation of Knowledge
  2. Increased marketability
  3. Increased earning power
  4. Enhanced credibility

 

“Never stop learning” has served me well over the years, and this fundamental truth will work for anyone interested in growth. Several institutions provide this exciting growth opportunity, but you might explore certificates from Distance Learning Systems by visiting https://catalog.mindedge.com/dlsii. They also offer an accelerated and affordable path to over 450 online degree programs sponsored by major universities throughout the US.

 

Written By: Dave Christy