Factors that make accredited online schools *as credible* as traditional schools:
* Accreditation: Accreditation from a recognized regional or national accrediting agency is crucial. This means the school has met certain standards for quality and has undergone a rigorous review process. A regionally accredited online school generally holds the same weight as a regionally accredited brick-and-mortar institution. Nationally accredited schools are also credible but might be recognized by fewer institutions later on. Always check the accreditation status before enrolling.
* Curriculum and Faculty: Reputable online schools have well-developed curricula that are comparable to traditional schools. They also employ qualified and experienced instructors.
* Recognition of Credentials: Graduates from accredited online schools generally have their degrees and certificates recognized by employers and other institutions.
Factors that might make accredited online schools *less credible* in *some* contexts:
* Perceived Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: Some employers or institutions may still hold a bias against online degrees, although this is gradually changing.
* Program Quality Variation: While accreditation ensures a certain standard, the quality of individual online programs can vary significantly. It's essential to research specific programs carefully.
* Self-Discipline Required: Successful completion of online programs requires a high degree of self-discipline and time management skills, which might be a challenge for some students. This isn't a reflection of the school's credibility, but rather a student-specific factor.
In Conclusion:
An accredited online school *can* be just as credible as a traditional school, especially if it's regionally accredited. However, the specific reputation of the school and the program itself matters greatly. Thorough research, including checking accreditation status, faculty qualifications, curriculum details, and employer recognition, is essential before enrolling in any online program. Don't solely rely on the "online" aspect to judge credibility; instead, focus on the factors listed above.