Is online learning right for me?

Four things you should know when considering an online bachelor’s degree

It is natural to feel uncertain about the changes that are happening in education and other areas due to the constantly evolving digital environment. Some areas of concern may include technology, distractions, time management, motivation, digital literacy and potential employer perception.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for online or distance learning has skyrocketed. Online degrees are becoming increasingly popular, and their benefits widely recognized. According to Forbes, 2.7 million students who attend private institutions are remote learners. Therefore, it is becoming less acceptable to ignore the value of online degrees.

For those who lead busy lives and are searching for ways to incorporate going back to school into their daily routines, remote learning is an ideal solution. If you are thinking about going back to school, keep reading to discover some of the benefits of remote learning and why an online education could be a great fit for you.

1. You will have a variety of options.

Rider’s 100% online courses and programs are conveniently designed to meet the diverse needs of adult learners who want to complete or advance their education remotely. This approach allows students to pursue their education in a timeframe optimal for their lifestyle. We offer several online degree programs, including allied health studies, business administration, liberal studies and psychology.

2. You will have flexibility.

One of the most significant advantages of virtual learning is its flexibility. Online courses provide you with greater independence in deciding your class schedule and customizing your coursework to suit your career objectives. At Rider, we offer a range of convenient course options specifically designed to cater to the needs of adult learners. The program benefits include flexible start dates in the fall, winter, spring or summer, the freedom to study at any time and from any location, and accelerated courses.

If you're still skeptical about distance learning, a hybrid course may ease your transition. Combining the best of both worlds, a hybrid course offers traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning. Classes typically meet in person once a week and use the time effectively for labs, group activities and discussions, while online learning provides on-demand access to recorded lectures and other course materials. Hybrid courses offer the balance of both an online and on-ground course modality.

3. You can finish faster than you think.

Online learning not only offers you the flexibility to access course materials at your convenience but also enables you to complete your degree faster through accelerated courses. Rider offers accelerated sessions during winter and summer, which last only three weeks and are available online.

Further into your studies, if you're interested in obtaining a master's degree, Rider’s graduate 4+1 and accelerated programs can help you get there faster. Eligible students can complete their graduate degree with only one additional year of study. Those who choose this program begin taking graduate-level courses during their final year of undergraduate studies. This program can save you time and money while increasing your marketability as an employee, which could lead to better earning opportunities in the future.

4. You will have a support network.

Learning in an online environment does not have to be an isolating experience. Surprisingly, it may be easier to interact with your instructor and classmates in the virtual space, as it reduces the social anxiety often associated with learning in a traditional classroom. Most instructors offer various options, such as video conferencing and chat-based discussion forums, to allow students to engage with one another and provide support to those who need extra help.

At Rider, we offer a range of academic support services to online learners. These include our Student Navigation Office, Academic Success Center and Counseling Center, which are accessible to the entire Rider community. We understand that it can be challenging to learn online, and our support services are designed to help you build confidence, feel more connected and achieve academic success.