How Does a Distance Learning Bachelor Degree Work?
Students who are unable to commit to an on-campus degree program may be interested in a distance learning bachelor's degree. Read below to find out more about how this flexible educational option works.
Program Overview
A bachelor's degree program is a post-secondary program that generally takes four years to complete. Many of these programs are based in the liberal arts and are designed to offer students a broad education in a variety of subjects. Students usually choose a major, which is a specific field of study. Most programs require students to complete several hours of general education coursework and several hours of major-related courses. A distance learning bachelor's degree program allows students to complete their studies without being physically present on the campus.
Important Facts About an Online Bachelor's Degree
| Common Courses | English, mathematics, social sciences, fine arts, life sciences |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma, or equivalent |
| Concentrations | Accounting, business, English, geosciences, history, nursing, psychology |
| Possible Careers | Engineer, insurance underwriter, teacher, financial analyst, software developer, graphic designer, writer, camera operator |
Online Degrees
Most distance learning programs are completed online. Online programs allow students to receive and complete their coursework electronically. Students then work at their own pace, as their time allows. For working professionals who cannot commit to long-term on-campus programs, online degree programs may be a convenient option. Although students in these programs are not present in a physical classroom, most programs provide students with tools such as Web forums and virtual classrooms, allowing them to engage in extensive interaction with faculty and fellow students.
Program Types
Some online programs are considered synchronous, which means that students must be present at their computers at a specific time to hear a lecture or participate in a discussion. Asynchronous programs allow students more freedom, since they do not follow a specified schedule. Students in either type of program may be required to take exams at a location near their home under the supervision of a proctor.
Correspondence Courses
Some students prefer to complete coursework manually and enroll in a bachelor's degree program that offers correspondence courses. Correspondence courses allow class materials to be mailed to students; once the work is completed, students mail it back to their professor and soon receive new work. These courses are a good option for students who would like to most closely replicate an on-campus learning experience. Correspondence courses are also convenient for students who do not have access to a personal computer or the Internet. Students in these programs may be required to complete their exams under supervision.