How to Finish Your Degree Through an Online Program
Did you know that most people don’t finish their degree on time? If you’re one of the majority who didn’t finish your degree—but you still want to—an online option might help you. In this digital era, online classes are more prevalent and popular than ever, and they could help you earn the degree you’ve been dreaming about.
Why Should I Complete My Degree Online?
Maybe you began your pursuit of a degree in a traditional setting so that’s how you figured you need to finish. Or maybe you’ve never taken a class in a virtual format and online programs seem scary. But there are two important advantages that an online program can offer:
- Flexibility—Need to go into work a little later than usual? Have to pick the kids up from school? One of the greatest advantages to an online class is that there is no set schedule. You can fit your class time into your busy schedule, instead of the other way around. While you can’t choose deadlines and due dates, you can choose when and where you attend class and do your work.
- Convenience—You can complete your coursework from the comfort of your couch, or on the bus on your way to work. You don’t have to dress for school or commute back and forth to a classroom. Online is convenient.
Find the Right School to Complete Your Degree Online
The first and most important step in the process is to find a school that’s right for you. Here are a few questions to research as you start to look for a school:
- What degree completion programs does the school offer? Charter College offers both a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Care Administration for those who have completed an associate degree or related coursework. The college offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Business Administration, an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Allied Health, and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Applied Technology, appropriate for those who have completed certificates in those areas. And we have an RN to BSN program for registered nurses who want their Bachelor’s degree.
- Is the school accredited? Accreditation ensures the institution has met specific quality criteria from the accrediting body. Charter College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) to award bachelor of science degrees, associate of applied science degrees, and certificates. Accreditation is also important if you plan to apply for financial aid. Federal aid is only provided to students who attend an accredited institution. You’ll also need to know from what accrediting bodies the school you are interested will accept credits. For example, Charter College will consider transfer credits from a higher education institution that is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
- What course credits can be transferred? This will vary from program to program. At Charter College, in order to be considered for transfer credit, the courses you’ve taken must be at the 100-level or higher, and completed with at least a “C” grade. For the nursing program, general education courses must have been completed with a “B” grade or higher. Credit for technical, nursing courses will not be accepted.
- From how far back will the college accept credits? Charter College may accept credit from technical courses taken eight years ago or less. Credits from general education courses taken 15 years ago or less may be accepted. For the nursing program, general education courses should have been taken no longer than five years ago.
Once you enroll in and attend your online classes, you’ll be given the tools that can help you succeed in the classroom and in your career.
If you’re ready to complete your degree online, explore your options at Charter College. Call 888-200-9942 today or view the catalog and student handbook for more information on transferring course credit.