Programs are structured to give students same information and quality education they would receive in a traditional college program. In some cases, textbook and assignments are same. Opportunities for community involvement and exposure to a diverse student body are found in many programs. Several years ago, few schools offered degrees through distance education. More schools are now offering this choice in response to student needs. The availability of online degree programs continues to increase.

Older students often return to school to fulfill job requirements or to secure a promotion. These students like flexibility distance education offers. You can work independently and gain skills valuable on job market. You have flexibility to study during your lunch hour, in early morning or at night, according to your schedule. If your job involves travel, you won't have to worry about missing classes.

Distance education offers flexibility in amount of time you spend on each class or assignment. You can spend more time on difficult concepts and less time on those you find easy. If you are taking more than one course, you can schedule your study time according to assignment due dates. You may have a paper due in one class this week and another project due next week in another class. You can tailor your schedule to meet changing course requirements.

When you apply to school, you can also apply for financial aid. Talk to a representative about programs available to students in form of financial aid and scholarships. Start process by filling out Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Complete application even if you don't think you will qualify for federal aid. Most other student loan programs use same application. To be able to accept federal financial aid, school must be regionally accredited. Accreditation is a voluntary process and matters mainly for financial aid and transferring credit to other universities. Check with an admissions counselor if you're not sure about accreditation.

Once you have completed all applications and testing, you will find out if you have been accepted into program. Once you have been accepted, you will be eligible to register for classes and begin journey toward your college degree. The admissions counselor at your university can assist you in scheduling your courses. There is often an order in which classes should be taken. Once you have registered, you pay for your classes, get your books and attend orientation, if required.