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5 Benefits Of An Online, Competency-Based College Education

Education & Training

Obtaining a higher education is a goal for many individuals, particularly veterans who are hoping to expand their future career possibilities. But with busy schedules and years of experience already under your belt, it can be difficult to know what type of education is going to work for you. Online university education is becoming increasingly popular as an option for many busy individuals, particularly those who serve in our nation's military.

Take a look at 5 benefits of getting your college education online, and determine if this option really could be best for you.

Location Does Not Matter

With an online education, you don’t need to live close to a campus or have to worry about commuting to class. Most online education institutions are 100% online, giving you the ability to live almost anywhere and still get your degree. This flexibility is also hugely beneficial for those currently serving in the military. Robert Grasmick is the perfect example. Robert’s Air Force Reserves unit was sent to help with Hurricane Irma relief efforts, and he knew he would be able to access his books and education even if he had to travel and work from various locations. Online education gives military professionals the option to learn wherever they are stationed.

Time Flexibility

There are often intense time demands and unpredictable schedule changes that accompany military life. With online education, time is on your side. You are able to work early in the morning or late at night, just based on when is convenient for you. This is also hugely valuable for military spouses, who often have demanding roles of their own. This flexibility of time allows them to also have educational goals, while still being able to care for home and family while their spouse may be away.

Costs are Lower

Some online universities are able to offer lower tuition costs to students, as they aren’t spending money on campus upkeep or university clubs and athletics. This gives more students the options to enroll and get the education they desire, at costs that are accessible to them. In addition, most online colleges utilize online textbooks, which can often be cheaper than traditional books. Without shipping and processing costs, students can buy more of their books at a lower price.

You May be Able to Graduate Faster

One thing that most students love about attending college online is the ability they have to do assignments ahead of schedule. Their education isn’t all about deadlines or time lines; it’s about how they need to learn and what works best for them. This can be hugely beneficial for military personnel, with unpredictable schedules and demands, knowing they can learn at their pace is a huge plus.

Earn Credit for Proving What You Know

Some online universities allow you to earn your credits based on what you know, not necessarily time spent in class. Students are able to apply the experiences they have had outside the classroom, and earn credit. While many traditional colleges don’t take certain coursework or time in a career as part of their curriculum, many online universities strive to ensure that anything you’ve learned, in the classroom or outside of it, can be applied to your education. This gives military members the opportunity to apply things they have learned in training and in the field to their education, making each credit even more impactful.

These are just a few of the many benefits to attending an online university. While any student can take advantage of attending college online, military veterans or current military members may find it to be an even better fit for their lifestyle and needs.

If you have comments or feedback about any article, please email your thoughts to info@acp-advisornet.org.

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