I am taking a graduate class this semester at UHCL. It meets every other Saturday from 9-3, which is a HUGE chunk of my weekend. I am committed to finish this class that will wrap up on December 5th. The debate for me has been between enrolling in their Reading Specialist degree and going the long (and VERY expensive) way, or enrolling in one of the on-line programs ($5,000 compared to $25,000) which is only an 18 month, but very fast paced program.
What do y'all think? Which way should I go?? The long way will take me just over 3 years to complete. Throw in the whole discussion about which degree would carry more weight, or would it even matter. I don't know.
Help!
My experience with online courses is that its nearly impossible to really keep up with the class. There are usually chat room discussion groups, profs sending powerpoints, and email tag about assignments. If its a face paced course, could be even more difficult. You might talk to someone who's gone that route. See what their experience is. The 3 yr thing is a huge commitment as well. I see your dilemma, I've heard from employers that a degree from an online source almost never carries the weight of a "bricks n mortar" uni.
ReplyDeleteGranted, I'm working on an MBA, but I'm going the full on line route. It's much more flexible on my time. I work on papers, reading, and on line discussions mostly after the kids go to bed and I block out time on Sunday. My cousin is an educator and she went the expensive route on her Masters (and is now working on her PhD) because she likes the human interaction much better.
ReplyDeleteSo I'd say it depends on how you want to spend your time.
A girlfriend of mine is getting her masters online. Shorter time and less money. Haven't heard any complaints from her so far. She's a school teacher as well, by the way. I could give you her number.
ReplyDeleteI have taken classes online and actually thought it was much easier than having to drive somewhere and meet up. I found it easier and learned at my own pace and just simply found it was better for me doing it that way!! I think it would be the way to go. Of course, what I did was in Criminal Justice & as a Vet Tech. My next adventure will most likely be as a Teachers aide. I absolutely loved taking classes at home at times that were better for me. Hope that this gives you a little insight into the online college experience!! That was the year that I made the Dean's List!!
ReplyDeleteI'm not a huge fan of online degrees. I'm old school. Somehow they don't seem "real" and I think they cheapen the whole higher education process. That's just "my" opinion so take it for what it's worth. You have to do what is best for you, the family, budget and time constraints. I'm proud of you no matter what you choose. PROUD. Sorry, I needed to say that again.
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