Distance education can take two forms. Most students think of online degree programs when they hear "distance education." This refers to programs that take place exclusively online; students complete classes, assignments and tests in this virtual environment. Another type of distance education, and the precursor to this online-based form of study, allows students to complete courses away from the main campus, at an off-site location closer to home. These distance education programs often take place in evenings or on weekends to accommodate working students' schedules. Some distance-learning programs are a hybrid of online and face-to-face instruction.
Students enrolled in distance-education programs are not limited to a general education degree; instead, they can choose from different levels of programs in a range of fields of study. Universities offer both bachelor's and master's degrees in distance-learning programs. For example, the University of Kentucky offers a Master's in Library and Information Science online, while the University of Cincinnati offers associate degrees in early childhood care and education and fire science technology, as well as bachelor's degrees in clinical laboratory science and health information management.
The structure of universities' distance-education programs depends on the type of program offered. Online programs require students to have a computer and Internet access so that they can access class websites, online discussion boards and class videos. Students participating in face-to-face, offsite distance-education programs participate in a more traditional program structure in that they attend class like their peers on the main campus. However, the demographic profile of these students is more varied, and the classes might be longer because they meet less frequently.
Most universities offer -- or have started developing -- distance-education programs to stay competitive. Universities across the country, from the University of Kentucky to the University of Washington and the State University of New York schools, offer some form of distance education. While not every degree program is available through distance education, students' options for earning a college degree are broadening thanks to these distance education programs.