Accreditation is a way of knowing the university you choose is meeting standards set by the government and experts in the field of post-secondary education. Most online universities are accredited. Search directories, such as the Guide to Online Schools, and check with prospective schools directly to ensure they are accredited.
These schools are especially designed to meet the needs of people with full-time jobs, parents with responsibilities and those who need flexibility. No driving costs and parking to attend a large college, you work right from home. If you work full time, you do not have to lose income to be a student. Graduate students benefit from working in the field they are pursuing a degree in.
You must have Internet access and a computer to attend an online university. Classes are primarily conducted online and not in real time, therefore if you need a question answered you must wait for the professor to respond. Ensure you can motivate yourself and stay on top of things without having to attend face-to-face classes. If you desire personal interaction with classmates and need to socialize, the online environment may not be the best choice for you.
A traditional university offers many things, but most importantly any degree offered or that you desire to study can be obtained at a traditional university. Not all university degree programs rank equally, but they are available. Medical degrees and various degrees related to science can only be offered at a traditional university due to the nature of labs and resources necessary. The personal relationships and bonds created can last a lifetime, and students can have a face-to-face experience with professors.
Most universities rank differently within their colleges and programs offered. If you plan to attend a university, you may not be able to attend the one you truly desire without moving. If you move, you pay out-of-state tuition, which is most often three times the amount. Your lifestyle must accommodate the cost of living in the area, parking, schedule of classes and possible commuting to attend a traditional university. Most often, university students cannot work full time due to the way classes are scheduled, therefore you may not be able to earn a substantial income while attending school.
Research local area universities as well as all the possible online universities before you make your investment. You may have to relocate from your hometown to attend a traditional university vs. attending an accredited online university that does not require physical attendance and gives you the ability to work full time.