Is an Online Degree Right for Me?

The advent of new technological devices and applications has led to the development of a new form of education: online learning. This avenue of learning offers a wide range of benefits, making it a viable option for those who may not wish or be able to attend college in person. Immaculata University offers a variety of fully online degree programs to accommodate your life and personal goals, including undergraduate and graduate degrees as well as certificates. Read on to determine if Immaculata’s online programs are right for you.

Benefits of Online Learning

There are multiple benefits to pursuing an online degree. A prime example is flexibility. Individuals in online programs can customize their class schedules, allowing them to manage classes while balancing their family and work obligations. At Immaculata, online students learn from the same exceptional, dedicated faculty members who instruct in-person lectures and courses. Prospective students can also choose between two learning formats to best fit their needs: synchronous and asynchronous courses. In synchronous classes, students and their instructors meet virtually in real time, typically on a video conferencing program. In asynchronous classes, students work at their own pace according to their schedules.

Another key benefit of an online degree is easy accessibility, allowing individuals to access their learning materials and lectures from anywhere using their laptops, PCs and similar devices. As long as they have access to the internet, learners can complete assignments and attend classes virtually. Thanks to the advancements of virtual learning environments, students no longer need to commute to campus, worry about traffic delays, or stress about balancing multiple schedules.

The well-known benefits of flexibility and accessibility make it significantly easier to attain a degree while actively working or caring for family, allowing individuals to advance their careers. Immaculata offers career-focused undergraduate degrees in their adult professional programs, enabling individuals to complete their coursework according to their schedules. Those who wish to seek higher-level positions in their fields or switch their career paths entirely can take courses that prepare and help them to stand out from other candidates.

One additional and sometimes overlooked benefit of online learning is the development and strengthening of soft skills. For instance, students will utilize and strengthen their time management skills to keep their schedules in order. Strong communication skills and the ability to balance multiple projects at once are also key skills. In addition, those who participate in online programs will gain additional technological skills, whether through the use of general digital applications or specific online learning tools.

Limitations of Online Learning

With all of these benefits, there are some limitations to consider. For instance, some students may find online learning less social than in-person classes, as there aren’t as many social opportunities in which to participate.

In addition, hands-on learning, also known as experiential learning, opportunities may be limited. Experiential learning traditionally involves activities like collaborative learning and projects, participation in labs, and engagement in internships or apprenticeships. While there are some online substitutes available, they aren’t necessarily able to replace the experience gained in a physical environment. Because of this, individuals interested in medicine, engineering, physical therapy or laboratory sciences may find in-person classes to be a better fit.

Immaculata’s Online Programs

Immaculata offers a diverse selection of online academic programs. Individuals interested in the University’s adult professional programs can acquire their bachelor’s or associate degrees in various disciplines, including business, health care and cybersecurity. Adult learners can also pursue minors such as art history, entrepreneurship, finance, theology and more. Additionally, adult students enrolled in undergraduate online programs are assigned professional academic advisors who will assist with the class selection process, applying transfer credits where needed, and connecting students with campus resources (such as the math and writing centers, financial aid, and peer tutoring), while also acting as motivational support throughout the duration of the academic year.

Traditional undergraduate students can also take online courses in various disciplines alongside their in-person classes. These online courses can come in two formats: accelerated (seven weeks) or full semester (15 weeks).

For those pursuing online graduate degrees, Immaculata offers master’s degrees in subjects related to business, education and health care, as well as a range of graduate certifications and endorsements. Students enrolled in graduate online programs have access to a variety of resources to support them in their academic journeys and connect them with the academic community. These include dedicated faculty advisors, online program hubs, remote access to library resources, and online writing services.

Explore Your Options

Ultimately, there are many factors to consider when deciding whether an Immaculata online degree is the right choice for you. You want to make the best decision that allows you to accomplish your educational goals. If you’re apprehensive about committing to an online program, Immaculata offers a student success seminar that provides detailed information about online learning, including how to submit assignments, engage in discussions and take quizzes, helping you feel more at ease. Hopefully, by considering these points, you’re able to make the best choice that puts you on a track to success.

Learn more about Immaculata’s online degree programs or contact admissions at (610) 647-4400 or admiss@immaculata.edu.