These days, you do not need to venture to the nearest college campus to advance your education. With online classes for adults, it is possible to learn just about anything from the comfort of your home, provided that you have reliable access to a computer and an internet connection.
If you are thinking about pursuing a degree but are not convinced that a “traditional” on-campus program is right for you, then it may be time to explore an online degree program instead. Not only are these programs more accessible than ever, but they also offer a number of benefits for adult learners.
Benefits of an Online Learning Experience for Adult Students
With so many benefits of online learning for adults, it is no wonder that 9.4 million undergraduate students were enrolled in at least one online class in 2021 alone.
Flexibility to Juggle Work and Study
One of the biggest perks for many adult learners is the simple fact that online classes allow for unrivaled flexibility and versatility. Rather than having to attend classes on a physical campus at a set date/time, many online courses have no set meeting times and allow students to truly work at their own pace. However, some classes may include a mix of synchronous sessions, where students meet at scheduled times, and asynchronous coursework, which can be completed independently. This combination provides added flexibility while also offering opportunities for real-time interaction and engagement.
Accessibility for Remote Learners
For remote learners who may not necessarily live near a college campus, online classes improve accessibility. They allow students to attend courses from a school that offers distance learning without having to commute or live near campus.
Wide Range of Programs and Courses
Online learning also provides adult learners with access to a much wider range of programs and courses than on-campus learning alone. If a student is looking for a highly specialized or specific program, they are not restricted by the offerings in their geographical area. Even if their ideal program is located halfway across the country, they could still pursue the degree/certificate they want if the school offers an approved online option.
Cost-Effectiveness and Financial Savings
For many students, completing an online degree or certificate program is also much more affordable than attending a program on-campus. While costs per credit hour tend to be similar regardless of whether the student is attending classes online or in-person, the real savings come from not having to commute or pay for room and board. Students may also save on costs related to wear and tear on their vehicles, as well as fuel needed to get to and from campus.
For students with young children, being able to complete coursework online may also mean foregoing a babysitter, which could save students hundreds of dollars per month. Instead, students may work their studies around their busy parenting lives. For example, many parents enrolled in online classes will do their schoolwork after their children have gone to bed.
Career Advancement and Lifelong Learning
Online courses could be an excellent option for those already working in their chosen fields but want to advance their education, acquire new skills, and explore opportunities to advance in their chosen fields. With online degree and certificate programs, even busy working professionals could find the time to commit to lifelong learning and development.
Personalized Learning Paces
Many online courses are offered in an asynchronous format, meaning that students may work at their own pace with no set class meeting times. This option may be appealing to those with busy schedules or unique learning needs because it allows students to complete their coursework at whatever pace works best for them. Some students may prefer to work ahead and complete their courses early, whereas others may need more time in certain areas. Either way, online courses could often accommodate the diverse needs of different learners.
Enhanced Technical Skills
Participating in an online class requires students to have some basic technical skills, particularly when it comes to working on a computer. It is not uncommon for students to need to save and upload assignments in specific formats, communicate with teachers/classmates via email, and use specific computer programs/applications. Over time, online students may be able to build upon their own computer literacy and tech skills. These are skills that could come in handy in many jobs or industries, especially in today’s increasingly connected world.
A Supportive Online Community
Many online learners also enjoy the sense of comradery and support that comes along with taking online classes alongside other career-driven professionals. Even if you never get the chance to meet with your classmates face-to-face, there is a chance that you will build lasting friendships and professional connections in the right online degree program.
Immediate Application of Knowledge
Likewise, because online programs are designed with career-focused professionals in mind, this means that it is often possible to immediately apply what you are learning in class to your own work and life experiences. By applying abstract concepts in the real world, students could enhance their own comprehension and recall of these complex topics.
Overcoming the Challenges of Online Learning
Despite the many benefits of online learning for adults, there are some potential challenges that students should prepare for as well.
Developing Self-Discipline and Time Management
First, understand that online learners need to be extremely disciplined and self-motivated. This is especially true for those in asynchronous classes. Students in these classes need to be especially careful about managing their time responsibly and setting aside enough time to dedicate to the course material.
Many students in online classes find that using specific time management techniques (such as the Pomodoro Technique or the Eisenhower Matrix) could help them better focus and prioritize their work. Many students also find success in keeping a detailed calendar or planner that includes all of their school obligations, such as tests or assignment deadlines, as well as work and other formal obligations. This could help students get a better feel for what their workload looks like each week so they could plan accordingly and ensure they set enough time aside for their studies.
Ensuring Reliable Internet Access and Technology
Another potential hurdle to consider when it comes to pursuing an online education is access to a reliable internet connection and other technology needed to complete your coursework. If you live in a more rural area that does not have a lot of options for internet providers, then you may run into connectivity or latency (lag) issues that could affect your learning.
The same applies if you do not have access to a reliable computer that can handle basic commands, such as playing videos/lectures and running software that may be required in your classes. Before you enroll in an online program, it is a good idea to learn more about the specific tech requirements so you can make sure you are as prepared as possible.
Success Stories: How Online Learning Transformed Lives
If you are still not sure whether online learning is right for you, it might be helpful to explore some real-life success stories from students who have completed their education at Post University.
Career Shifts Enabled by Online Degrees
In many cases, pursuing an online degree or certificate could be an excellent way for working professionals to make a career shift into another field or an adjacent part of their current field. By pursuing an online degree, students may continue working in their existing roles while working towards a formal degree that could help them enter a new field entirely or make a much-needed career pivot.
Balancing Education With Parenthood
Similarly, individuals with significant responsibilities, like caring for a family — a full-time commitment — could use online courses to further their education without sacrificing family time. With online coursework, busy parents could fit classes around their busy schedules without missing a beat at home. This means they could be more present while still working towards their goals. It really is the best of both worlds.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you are looking to complete your degree after a hiatus or are interested in enrolling for the first time, online classes make it possible to earn your degree from home without ever having to set foot inside a classroom. While there are some inherent challenges to taking online classes, you may overcome these obstacles with a little foresight and preparation.
Thank you for reading! The views and information provided in this post do not reflect Post University programs and/or outcomes directly. If you are interested in learning more about our programs, you can find a complete list of our programs on our website or reach out directly!
Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s programs and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.
