Selecting a school that’s the right fit for you will greatly increase your odds of success as an online learner, so it’s important to do your research and make an informed decision.
A good place to start is by researching the school to see what kind of standing they have among academic institutions. Reputation matters, especially if you want to earn a degree or credential that employers will respect. Check rankings by trusted sources such as U.S. News & World Report, which compiles rankings of the best online programs on an annual basis.
Another tip to get a sense of what the school’s name means to employers: use LinkedIn to gauge how many alumni from that school are employed at your dream company or top employers in your intended field. If companies seem to recruit many grads from that university, that’s a good sign that the institution is viewed positively by hiring reps.
You will also want to find out about the responsibilities and average time commitment a specific school may require of students. Here’s what you can expect as a student at Penn State World Campus.
A complete student experience typically involves the chance to participate in interesting or rewarding activities outside the classroom environment, so you should explore networking opportunities such as clubs and organizations that would allow you to meet other students and form a support system.
It’s also important to be sure the school you choose is dedicated to supporting online learners. Penn State World Campus is passionate about helping students succeed, and all of our courses and programs are designed with the specific needs and challenges of adult learners in mind.
Learn more about why you should choose Penn State World Campus.