Debunking Myths About Online Education
There are a lot of misconceptions around online degrees and programs. Some you've probably heard about, and some you maybe haven’t. Some may have been true at some point in time. Sadly, these myths have created a stigma around going to school online, so many people may not take the next step in their career or educational journey. Let's break down some common myths and get a better understanding of online education.
All explanations are true for Utah State University (USU). Please verify any points of interest for other universities you may be attending.
Myth: Online Student's Don't Qualify for Financial Support
USU Online students are welcome to apply for the same forms of financial support as on-campus students. Here's a brief overview of two main financial support sources:
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):This includes federal student loans, grants, and work-studies. Some scholarships may require you to fill out the FAFSA even if you don’t plan to take out a student loan or receive a grant.
- Scholarships: USU has a scholarship portal where you can search for and apply to multiple scholarships from a single place. It includes both USU and outside scholarships.
You can learn more about these resources and USU's other financial support services at usu.edu/financial-support.
Myth: My Diploma Will Say "Online"
As a USU Online graduate, your diploma is exactly the same as that of on-campus students. Faculty and course curriculum are the same across on-campus and online education, so you're diplomas are the same.
Myth: Online Classes are Easier than In-person Classes
This myth contains a bit of nuance. If we are looking at the materials and topics covered, there isn't a reason for online courses to be easier since you're getting the same information as in-person courses. If we are looking at scheduling, online classes are easier because you don't need to be in a specific location at a specific time. This flexibility makes online education accessible for more people because they may work, have other responsibilities, have difficulty attending on campus, etc.
Why this myth exists
When we look at individual students, this myth gains some credibility. We all have different strengths and weaknesses when it comes to how we learn. You may learn best by reading or exploring a topic on your own. Online classes may be easier because theya re more in line with how you naturally attain knowledge. Some people are social or tactile learners, so being in a digital environment may make classes more challenging.
If you're seriously considering an online degree, make sure you take your learning preferences into consideration.
Myth: Online Learning Doesn't Require Time Management
All education — online or not — requires time management. The question them becomes, how well are you able to manage your time? Some people thrive under set schedules, and earning a degree on campus may be more up their alley. Some people may struggle to keep a schedule even if they have one (such as attending courses on campus).
When you start your online degree, you'll be responsible for more than just getting your homework done. You'll need to also make time to review the amterials that replace the weekly in-person lectures. And while some courses don't have any due dates (meaning you can turn everything in on the alst day if you want), such courses often require more planning because leaving everything to the last minute can create its own problems.
Myth: Online Students Learn Alone
True, there may not be people sitting next to you in a classroom, but many classes have assignments that get you talking with other students. Discussion boards and group projects are opportunities to learn from other students in your classes.
Even outside of your courses, online students have a community in MyUSU where you can ask questions and interact with other online students.
Myth: Online Education Is Only for Working Adults
A majority of USU Online students do work, however, online education is not just for working adults. It’s for anyone who needs extra flexibility to earn their degree. The definition of a student is changing. It’s not just young 20-somethings. It’s stay-at-home parents, working parents, servicepeople, individuals with disabilities, career climbers, first-generation students, and more.
Myth: An Online Degree Limits Your Career Options
Your career options depend on your degree, your skills, and your experience, not the format of your classes. USU Online students earn the same credentials as on-campus students, and employers see the diploma, not the delivery method. If anything, studying online can expand your options: a flexible schedule lets you keep working, build experience, and grow your network while you earn your degree.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Higher education is changing, and online is playing a big part in that change. If you’ve been hesitant to start or finish your degree online, I hope I've been able to remove some doubts or concerns.