You see the advertisements for University of Phoenix – Online everywhere, but what is the school really about? Ever since the for-profit school made the early decision to organize an online learning program in a successful effort to propel its growth and widen its outreach to students, they have come up against many myths and stereotypes.
Some people think that online learning is inferior to classroom learning, that the University is little more than a diploma mill or that graduating with a degree from University of Phoenix won’t get you anywhere. In truth, however, according to student surveys, there is very high satisfaction among students who have earned an online degree from University of Phoenix.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about online learning:
Myth: Earning an online degree is easier than earning a degree in the classroom.
Many students find that the course material taught online is relevant and on track with the work their peers are completing in their educations at traditional institutions. The coursework for some classes will be more difficult than others, and you may come across some professors that you can communicate with better than others.
Because online learning requires an incredible amount of discipline and independence, some students may even find getting an online degree more difficult.
Myth: Online learning offers little personal attention and no communication with other students.
This is not the case. Most classes at University of Phoenix enroll no more than 15 students, which is much more personal than at a traditional university.
You can sign onto classes anytime during the day and participate in class discussions through forums or ask questions that your professors will respond to as soon as they can. Assignment due dates do go by the professor’s time, so if the professor is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone, your assignment will due in EST, which can take some adjusting. This can also be a challenge when you complete schoolwork with a classmate (which happens often). Professors usually try to pair students who are in similar time zones, but this is not always possible, so you must communicate regularly and be willing to work around your classmates’ schedules!
Many students find the tech support and counselors at University of Phoenix to be excellent. They often call and e-mail regularly and are extremely willing to help with any questions or concerns.
Myth: An online degree isn’t as respectable as a traditional degree.
While this may have once been the truth, online degrees are gaining prestige around the world. Established in 1989, University of Phoenix was the first accredited online university. Today, the University boasts over 57,000 enrollments, making it the largest accredited, for-profit online university in the United States.
University of Phoenix provides a respectable outlet for working adults to earn a higher education. Like many other things, you will only get as much out of your online education as you put into it, so if you take advantage of the resources provided, you can get a valuable education that employers will respect.
However, online education at University of Phoenix may not be for everyone. First-time college students with no family responsibilities and no full-time jobs may feel the desire to leave home, become independent, attend school with peers and learn how to manage their own lives.
Myth: The credits you earn online won’t transfer to traditional colleges.
A growing number of colleges and universities do accept transfer credits from University of Phoenix – Online! Still, it’s always a good idea to do some research before you enroll in a program. Check with your state and any educational institution you might want to enroll in later to make sure that credits and certifications will transfer.
Myth: Employers won’t take an online degree seriously.
A large percentage of alumnae from University of Phoenix – Online have seen an increase in their marketability. They have been able to secure jobs that they desired or have received promotions in their present jobs.
Plus, many University of Phoenix – Online faculty members are executives at reputed companies when they are not mentoring students in the classrooms, lending even more credibility to their instruction!
Myth: You must be a computer genius to earn an online degree.
The first course required of University of Phoenix – Online students is actually a course that teaches you how to be a successful online student. It can teach you how to search the databases, how to use the UoP online library, how to work in a learning team, how to use APA writing style and more. Additionally, this first course is often waived and free of charge! Even if not, there are often coupons for it.
The majority of classes are offered in Outlook Express, which most users find very easy to set up and use.
Myth: You’ll never set foot on a college campus.
While concentrated time spent on a college campus can be a great way to learn, the advent of technology has made physical presence unnecessary! In fact, because attending class is not possible for every student, University of Phoenix is one of the best options available. We can provide the flexibility of time and place while you receive a quality education. Additionally, online learning can be a great option for students with disabilities.
Plus, you don’t have to feel like you aren’t a part of a college environment – University of Phoenix has over 70 campus locations across the country! As a University of Phoenix – Online graduate, you are invited to participate in the graduation ceremony at the campus most convenient for you.
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