But while distance education can be an exciting, rewarding learning experience, there are deceiving aspects to distance learning that must be weighed in making the choice to study for a degree by distance. Distance learning is not for everyone. A preliminary requirement to successful distance learning is the high degree of personal motivation and self-discipline that it takes to undertake a course or degree by distance. They do not realize how much they rely on the physical presence of others to provide encouragement and mutual support while learning. Time required and time investment in distance learning must be also weighed.
Many students think distance education is a short-cut to easy grades and a graduate degree.
On the contrary distance learning may require an even greater time investment than an equivalent on-campus learning experience. In addition, most distance education students continue full-time or significant involvement in jobs or ministries. There are many indications that distance education demands more from both faculty and students than does on-campus learning yet it can be very fulfilling. Time management is another deceptive requirement in distance learning. But in light of these and other responsibilities, a prospective applicant to distance learning must weigh the consequences of adding distance graduate studies to the other responsibilities of life.