Deciding to start your college degree journey is exciting, but it can also come with some hesitation as to whether you’re ready. Whether you’re a student who started a degree but didn’t finish, a recent high school graduate considering alternative education paths, or a working adult eager to fulfill your educational aspirations, taking the plunge into online learning can open doors to a world of opportunities. To help you make an informed decision, check out these 10 questions to ask yourself before starting an online degree, and see how SEU is ready to help you answer each one.
Is an online degree the right fit for me?
Online degrees offer flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments like work and family. Consider your learning style, time management skills, and self-discipline. When you earn your degree online with SEU, you’ll still have due dates for assignments and a recommended number of hours to spend each week on your assignments, but in general you can complete your work on your schedule and know that your SEU professors are highly responsive and accessible.
What are my academic and career goals?
Deciding what you want to get out of your degree can help you narrow down your choice of program. Whether you want to finish a degree you already started, advance in your current career, switch to a new field, or gain a broader knowledge base, there is an SEU online degree program that supports your goals and offers relevant courses.
How will I stay motivated throughout the program?
Motivation is crucial for success in online learning. Setting realistic goals, creating a study schedule, participating in online discussions with your fellow students, and reaching out to your professors are all great ways to help you keep going.
How will I manage my time effectively?
Online degrees require a new level of time management skills, so creating an effective study schedule is key. This means setting aside dedicated study hours and finding ways to eliminate distractions, but also considering how much time you can realistically dedicate in a given day, and recognizing that you may need to adapt your schedule week-by-week. Remember to allocate time for assignments, projects, and exams, ensuring you can balance your studies with your other responsibilities.
What support services are available?
SEU offers many support services for our online students including academic advisors, tutoring via ACE, career services, and access to our online library resources. These comprehensive support services are designed to enhance your learning experience and help you overcome challenges. We even offer mental health services to our online students through TimelyMD!
How will I build a network and connect with my peers?
While pursuing an online degree, you may not meet your classmates in-person, but that doesn’t mean you can’t form meaningful connections! Engage in online forums, group projects, and virtual study groups to interact with your fellow students. Building a network will enrich your learning journey and provide valuable support. If you discover that you live near any of your classmates, make plans to meet up at a coffee shop or local library for a study session or to participate in a live lesson together.
What is the reputation of the online institution?
Ensuring the online institution you choose is reputable and accredited —like SEU — will give your degree greater value and enhance your job prospects in the future. We are proud to continue our tradition of training servant leaders, which we have been doing since our founding in 1935. SEU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
How will I finance my online degree?
SEU is dedicated to making earning a college degree accessible and affordable. That’s why in addition to discounted online tuition, we also offer employer benefit coordination and accept many types of aid. Plus, our dedicated enrollment and financial aid counselors are here to help you find financial support. Check out our financial aid options for online students.
Am I ready for the self-discipline required?
Online learning demands self-discipline and personal responsibility. Evaluate your ability to stay focused, complete assignments independently, and meet deadlines. Develop strategies to stay organized and committed to your coursework, and ask family or friends for the help you need to balance your other commitments.
What are my job prospects and opportunities after graduation?
All of our degrees, including online programs, have been intentionally created to help you discover and develop your Divine Design — the calling that God has placed on your life. Beyond exploring potential career paths, salary ranges, and industry demand, your SEU online degree will prepare you to unlock a world of professional growth and personal fulfillment.
Let’s Get Started!
Deciding to pursue an online degree is a significant step toward achieving your academic and career goals. By asking yourself these ten questions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your readiness, motivations, and aspirations. Remember, online learning with SEU offers flexibility, convenience, and a pathway to personal and professional growth. Embrace the journey, stay committed, and seize the incredible opportunities that an online degree from SEU can provide. You’ve got this — get started today and apply to SEU!
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