In the past year, this type of enrollment has more than tripled. Enrolling in one of these programs may work around your hectic work or family schedule and there are some key elements to look for when searching for a program that may suit your educational needs. First, check to see if the programs are accredited. Along with all the large institutions that are sponsoring distance learning programs, there are some fly by night organizations that will enroll you, take your money, and then not provide you with the caliber of education that you should demand from such an organization. Second, check with the program records to see how many students have passed through their virtual doors.
Some organizations can exaggerate their on-line presence, and the numbers of graduates they have.
Third, make sure the total price is illustrated and specifically itemized. You don't want to find out close to completion that you have but one requirement to fulfill, and you have to travel half way around the globe, incurring all sorts of expenses to do it. Fourth, make sure that your program of study is conducive to learning on-line. Some fields of study should be taught hand's on, and face to face. Fifth, if enrolling in a program where there will be a requirement to attend conferences, seminars, lab meetings, or trips to schools, make sure there will be accommodations available to you and that you can work the trip in around your work and families' schedule.