Online college degree programs are growing in popularity, and in availability. In fact, enrollment in online degree programs is at an all-time high and even some of the world’s most prestigious colleges and universities have added fully online programs to their offerings.

While most students cite flexibility as the number one reason to choose an online degree program, there are other benefits, too. If you’re considering enrolling in an online program, here are six factors that may appeal to you.

1. Efficiency

Recent studies have shown that online students are often able to achieve learning results in just half the time it takes students in traditional, in-person degree programs.

2. Communication

For many students, online learning facilitates more meaningful discussion because they find it more comfortable than speaking up in a lecture hall full of students. This can be especially true for students with speech impediments, hearing impairments, or those who simply require more time to organize their thoughts or questions about the material.

3. Personalized Learning

People learn in different ways and online learning allows instructors to deliver the same course content through different methods. The curriculum is usually available around the clock, too, meaning students can access it at the times of day when they feel most engaged.

4. Accessibility

If you work full-time, live in a remote region, or you are in the military, online education breaks down barriers by transcending both time and geography. You can study anytime, anywhere.

5. Adaptability

Students with physical, behavioral, or learning challenges find that online programs offer technologies like text-to-speech that can be very beneficial.

6. Engagement

Online learning allows instructors to use alternative and creative means to motivate students and enhance the learning experience. This includes things like online games, social media, and virtual badges.

The above factors are just a few reasons to consider online education for your degree. There are so many benefits beyond flexibility, and you may find that an online degree program is perfectly suited to your needs on many levels.

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