Hey everyone. So I'm weighing all my options for after high school and was thinking about online colleges. I was just wondering if anyone knew which online colleges might be easier to handle in terms of course load and academic rigor? Along with flexibility, I would appreciate if they offer a good education too.
Hello there! There are a few online colleges I can think of that are reputable and often recommended for their flexibility and academic structure, while not necessarily being the most academically rigorous. These include Western Governors University and Southern New Hampshire University.
Western Governors University (WGU) operates on a competency-based model, meaning the speed at which you progress through your courses is determined by your comprehension of the material rather than a set semester timeline. This means you could potentially complete your degree faster if you're able to demonstrate mastery of your course material quickly.
On the other hand, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers over 200 online degree programs. They have a fairly flexible course load, offering asynchronous classes. This means you don't necessarily have to be online at a certain time for classes; you can complete your coursework at any time that works for you.
That being said, while these online universities may be less rigorous than traditional brick-and-mortar institutions, they still require work and discipline. Keep in mind though that the perceived rigor and difficulty of a college can often be subjective, and it varies depending on the individual's learning style, study habits, and overall academic preparedness.
No matter which online school you choose, you should prioritize accreditation. Be sure any online college or university you attend is regionally accredited. Regional accreditation is the "gold standard" and ensures your degree will be recognized by both future employers and other educational institutions, in case you decide to transfer or go to graduate school.
So while these schools may offer a less strenuous path towards a degree, it does not inherently mean you're getting a lesser education. These colleges aim to provide a quality education that is flexible and accommodating to the different lifestyles of their students.
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