Frequently Asked Questions
Will a college degree really make a difference in my career?
In our increasingly competitive marketplace, employers put greater value on education than ever before. Today, college graduates earn an average of 75% more income than high school graduates. Over the course of a career that means a college graduate will average almost one million dollars more than a high school graduate. Individuals with a master’s degree will average of 110% more income than high school graduates.*
"Education is essential in getting a high-paying job.," according to the U.S. Department of Labor.** "In fact, for all but 1 of the 50 highest paying occupations, a college degree or higher is the most significant source of education or training."
* The Big Payoff: Educational Attainment and Synthetic Estimates of Work-Life Earnings (Issued July 2002) U.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Surveys, March 1998, 1999, and 2000.
** U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, June 2, 2004.
Does the online format provide the same quality of education offered by a traditional campus?
Yes. Numerous studies have proven that distance learners perform as well or better than their on-campus counterparts. The book, The No Significant Difference Phenomenon, by Thomas L. Russell, cites 355 research reports, papers, and summaries dating back to 1928 that found no significant difference between distance learning and in-class learning. Where a difference was identified, it generally favored the distance-learning student. Similarly, an extensive study conducted by University comparing its own campus-based students to distance learners came to the same conclusion. In addition, it identified the current online format as the most effective vehicle for distance education.
What happens if I have a technical problem with my computer?
Our online system is very intuitive and easy to use. Should you have any questions or experience any difficulties, however, we offer 24/7 technical support via the Internet and over the phone. In addition, our Online Learning Software, developed in partnership with Microsoft® is also extremely reliable and user friendly. Either way, the technical staff is always there to answer questions and assist in any way possible.
Which degree programs are offered online?
Click here for a complete listing of online degree programs and online college classes.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, there are a number of resources you may qualify for. Contact an Enrollment Counselor for more information.
Does University Online accept transfer credit?
Yes, University Online accepts transfer credits for education learning online from regionally and nationally accredited institutions of higher learning, as long as they apply to your chosen degree program.
How fast can I complete my degree?
The minimum amount of time in which degree programs can be completed is two years, but the time it takes to complete your education learning online will vary depending on several factors, including prior coursework and whether or not you elect to go through an entire program without taking time off between courses. Most students complete their degrees in two to three years, but can take four or five years if their schedules dictate it. The more credits you transfer in, the faster you’ll complete your degree. You may be able to earn credits from professional training, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), or previous college courses they’ve taken. Students taking online college classes one class at a time are usually able to complete their bachelor’s degree in two or three years.
How is it possible to finish so soon?
At a traditional university, a working professional can struggle to finish 9 credits in a semester. That’s only 18 credits per year. At University Online our courses are designed specifically for the working professional. By taking education learning online one class at a time, you can complete up to 27 credits per year. That’s much faster than a traditional university!
What happens if I move to a new location?
No problem. You can continue with your degree program by taking online college classes at University Online from anywhere in the world as long as you have access to the Internet.
How long has the University been around? Is it accredited?
The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The University Online, founded in 1989, was among the first accredited universities to provide college degree programs over the Internet. University Online is now the nation’s leading online university.
Do University Online faculty hold masters or doctoral degrees?
To ensure the value of your education, all of our "8000" faculty members have masters or doctorate degrees. In addition, they hold high-level positions within the fields they teach. When they are not teaching class, our instructors are successful CEOs, CFOs, CIOs, supervisors, managers, business owners, executives, and professionals. They know what it takes to be successful.
Will my degree from University Online be accepted in the business community?
Yes. To ensure that our programs provide the skills and expertise that are in high demand, we develop our curriculum based on the current needs of industry. We then draw our faculty from among the leaders of that industry to provide the most valuable, real-world education possible. Our education learning online is continually updated to reflect the latest proven concepts, methods, and practices.
Is the University Online program really 100% online?
Yes, 100%, for our bachelor and master degree programs. This includes registration, ordering books, posting assignments, interacting with classmates, receiving feedback from instructors, etc. Imagine, no long commute, no waiting in lines to register, no separate trips to buy books, and no babysitter to pay. You’ll never again have to use the phrase, “No, I can’t, I have class.” Doctoral students are required to attend 19 days of residential workshops in Phoenix, Arizona, during the 3-year program.
When and how often do I have to be online for class?
You choose. The days and times that you take online college classes are entirely up to you as long as you post comments at least four out of seven days each week. You can do that at any time of the day or night, it is entirely up to you. This allows you to fit school into your busy schedule, rather than attempting to fit your schedule around school. Nothing could be more convenient.
and completing your degree?
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