Here's a breakdown:
Online Degree:
* Delivery Method: Courses are delivered entirely online, using various technologies like video conferencing, online learning platforms, and digital assignments. Interaction with instructors and peers is primarily virtual.
* Institution Type: Can be offered by universities (public, private, for-profit), community colleges, or specialized online institutions. The prestige and accreditation vary widely depending on the institution.
* Degree Types: Offer a wide range of degrees, including associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
* Cost: Can vary widely, depending on the institution and the program. Some online programs are more expensive than traditional programs, while others are more affordable.
Community College Degree:
* Delivery Method: Traditionally, courses are delivered in person on a community college campus. However, many community colleges now offer online courses and even entirely online degree programs.
* Institution Type: Public, two-year institutions focused on providing affordable education, vocational training, and associate's degrees. They may also offer some certificate programs and a limited number of bachelor's degrees (often in partnership with four-year institutions).
* Degree Types: Primarily associate's degrees (AA, AS). Some offer certificates and a few bachelor's degrees.
* Cost: Generally more affordable than four-year universities.
Overlap and Key Differences Summarized:
* Location: Online degrees are location-independent; community college degrees are typically location-dependent (though increasingly offering online options).
* Degree Type: Community colleges primarily offer associate's degrees, while online programs offer a broader range of degrees.
* Cost: Both can be affordable, but online programs can range widely in cost, while community colleges generally maintain lower tuition.
* Flexibility: Online degrees typically offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling and location. However, community colleges with online programs can also offer flexible options.
In short, an online degree is a *method of delivery*, while a community college degree is a *type of degree* usually (but not always) delivered in person. You could get an online associate's degree from a community college, or an online bachelor's degree from a university, demonstrating how these characteristics can overlap. The key is to carefully examine the institution's accreditation and reputation regardless of the delivery method.