4 Key Reasons to Take Online Courses This Semester
Managing school, home, work, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life is a decathlon-level feat for which there is no training. But there are ways to relieve some of the pressure.
Although learning online is as academically rigorous as face-to-face, if you’re looking for flexibility in your schedule, online courses could be the key, whether you’re pursuing a fully online degree or blending them into your on-campus schedule.
At the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, online enrollment has increased by 329 percent in the last four years, with 74 percent of the University’s more than 19,000 students taking at least one online course.
Here are three key advantages of UL Lafayette’s online degree programs and courses that explain why so many students are eager to enroll:
1. Flexibility and convenience
Online learning takes a lot of the stress out of balancing a demanding course schedule or advancing your career thanks to the flexible structure of online courses.
Anytime, anywhere coursework lets students learn when it’s most convenient for them.
Always-accessible online coursework lets you choose your own flexible study hours instead of having to show up in a classroom at a predetermined time. This means you can work when your energy’s highest and you’re most effective.
Student Zoe Maroulis chose the online bachelor of Kinesiology – Health Promotion & Wellness degree program specifically because it offered a 100-percent online curriculum.
Zoe fits her courses into a chaotic schedule that includes multiple jobs and family responsibilities.
“I fit ‘going to class’ in between everything — before work, on breaks, between jobs, and after I’ve packed it in for the day.”
2. Improve self-motivation, direction
Nearly every job ad is looking for a “self-starter.”
Online classes are a great way to hone your time-management skills and become even more efficient and organized in everything you do.
When you create a schedule and design a curriculum that aligns with your interests, learning style, and lifestyle, you’re more motivated to excel. You can really focus in on your studies during the time you’ve allotted.
3. Find your work-life balance
Working professionals can remain gainfully employed, scheduling time for studying and assignments after work or on weekends.
Parents returning to school can be there for their children when it matters most by creating study schedules that accommodate family commitments. People who travel often and those who move frequently, such as military families, are able to pursue higher education wherever life takes them.
Sarah Butler finds she’s still able to be there for her son and husband while pursuing her Master of Education through UL Lafayette’s Educational Leadership hybrid program.
“I still have time to go to T-ball games; I still have time to go on vacation,” she says.
4. Affordable advancement
Online courses and degree programs at UL Lafayette qualify for financial aid.
Regardless of whether students take one online course or an entire degree program, they can apply for financial aid granted through FAFSA just as they would for a face-to-face course or program.
Additionally, learning online at UL Lafayette means students can continue living and working wherever they are with the benefit of in-state tuition, meaning students can graduate with the same respected, career-advancing degree but with less student debt and less logistical maneuvering.
With numerous accredited online degree and certificate programs to choose from, there’s sure to be one that’s right for your career goals.
Ready to learn more? The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers online degree and certificate programs that prepare you for an advanced career in some of the most sought-after fields. We offer undergraduate, graduate, doctorate, and graduate certificate programs—all built around a flexible schedule: yours. You can learn when and where you want. Anytime. Anywhere. Request more information here.
