Many days I appreciate being able to log in to my laptop and watch a recorded lecture at 10pm at night. Other days, I miss having the resources like connections, networking fairs, and job opportunities that I had during my time learning on campus.
As an online college transfer student, there are many advantages and disadvantages I’ve found compared to an in-person college experience.
In this post, you’ll see why transferring to online college may be a great option for adult students. You’ll also hear some pros and cons I’ve found that may help you make a decision, if you’re considering returning to school.
Pros of Transferring to an Online College
I decided to transfer from an in-person university to an online college because I needed more flexibility while working a full-time job.
Let’s talk about this and other advantages if you’re considering finishing your degree online.
Flexibility Tailored to your Schedule
You’re able to study on your own time, whether that’s 5 in the morning, 11 at night or any other time.
For my online college, I have a semi self-paced schedule. There are due dates for assignments each week, but they provide grace periods in case you need extra time.
Furthermore, they record the lectures for you to review later. Plus, I don’t have group projects where I have to find collaborators and somehow meet with them.
This is great because it allows me to work my full-time job in peace, while still having time to spend with my family and complete my other responsibilities.
Cost Savings Add Up
In-person college campuses have a lot of extra fees such as housing, commuting, meal plans, and other bills. With online college, you’ll only have to worry about having a computer, maybe a printer for quality of life, and getting online textbooks (if required). For my college, they provide access to textbooks for free.
Speaking of tuition price, my online college tuition is less than that of my in-person college. That lower tuition price makes it more affordable.
Opportunity for Accelerated Classes
Online class terms are often shorter (depending on the institution). For me, my semesters are 8 weeks long. You can often complete all of your work ahead of time if you’d prefer.
Less Assignments & Different Structure
When I first transferred to online college, I had no clue that I would have less assignments due. Additionally, for the classes I’ve had, my exams were open note. I mostly have papers and projects, rather than tests.
This is amazing, because it means I don’t have to worry about studying or trying to memorize a bunch of information. To be fair, I’m a business major, so I’m not sure how it would be for someone going into a STEM field like Engineering.
Cons of Transferring to an Online College
Credit Transfer Struggles
It can be a headache to get your credits transferred to an online college. This is especially true if you want to change majors as well.
For me, this process took a good amount of patience, but worked out in the end.
Be prepared to appeal if certain credits don’t transfer. Also be prepared to re-take a class if absolutely necessary.
I had to take English Composition I a second time. Apparently when I took it in High School, it counted for the first college I went to, but not my current online college.
Social Isolation
Since online college is well, online, you may not have the same opportunity to make friends like you would on campus.
Lack of Access to Resources Like Student-Focused Job Boards, Health Initiatives, and Clubs
I’ve noticed that after transferring to an online college, I don’t have the same access to complementary resources. For example, student focused jobs.
At my in-person college, I had access to a student job board called Handshake. This had jobs from different companies across the country that gave students the chance to gain experience in the field.
I do not have this access at my online college.
Must Be Extra Careful about College Credentials
There are many online ‘colleges’ out there that are not accredited. This can mean that even if you get a degree, companies may not accept it.
This is why it is important to research whatever online college you want to transfer to.
I learned about mine through my awesome mother-in-law who got her degree and got promoted in her job because of it.
You have to DIY Motivation and Discipline
Because there is so much flexibility, it’s easy to slack on homework. This can lead to missing deadlines.
So, I have to put extra effort into making sure I keep myself accountable and show up for my assignments.
Conclusion
Being an online transfer student offers flexibility you can’t ignore, but it also presents challenges many people don’t talk about.
If you’re looking to level up your career as a working adult with life responsibilities, online college is an amazing opportunity!
Make sure to ask any questions you have, and do thorough research to make sure whatever college you choose is the best fit for you.