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Internet Education Gaining Popularity

What was first used as a tool for U.S. military intelligence has become household technology. The Internet, quickly disseminates information to people all over the world. And, thanks to the World Wide Web, the lecture hall has found another home.

Phoenix and Devry Universities are just two of the increasingly popular universities that uses the Internet as a portal for higher learning. While these online institutions offer the same types of degrees as traditional schools, they boast credible degrees in a shorter time span. Some programs only take ten months to complete.

The target audience of online universities, for the most part, are professionals who have families, jobs and other responsibilities that put constraints on their time. According to its website, the University of Phoenix highlights incentives such flexible class schedules for working professionals. With 160 campuses and learning centers, it is the largest accredited online university.

But how credible are these institutions?

Although internet schools may emphasize convenience for students, having a degree that sits well with employers and other institutions is of major concern.

In a poll conducted by Vault.com, a career information service, professionals and employers voiced their views. One participant responded, “Individuals may have to go to extra lengths to be able to assure and prove to an employer that their study and or degree from an Internet-only program merits the same weight of an accredited university.”

Another participant pointed out that work experience, not just a brand name degree, is also an important factor in determining for employers.

Enrollment in online courses continues to grow as it remains easy access to advanced degrees, which can translate into higher income.

 

-Mostly older working people

-experience of socializing/interacting in the classroom

-Cost compared to actual schools

-# of students who enroll at online universities

-long term impact on higher education

-60 Minute program