Can you really get a quality ed and degree online and if so?

Question

My dream has always been to teach special needs children but in my mid 40's and a family it would be hard to go back to a bricks and morter school. Was wondering if online degrees are for real?

Answer 1

Some of them are -- you should do some research first to make sure the school is genuine and accredited by a reputable agency.  Some established college and university systems offer classes and degrees online.  The University of Texas, for one, has a "telecampus" program that offers core courses and a few, limited degree programs.  I've included the link below, but you should also check the state university system in your own area to see if they have something similar.

You might also want to check out your local community college first -- many of them are affordable and they offer classes day and night.  I've attended both community colleges and a 4-year university, and the quality of the cc teachers was pretty high -- many of them are there because they really love to teach.

An online school may be the answer, but it doesn't always substitute for the experience you get with an excellent, live teacher (and classroom.)

Hope this helps, and best wishes!

Answer 2

I completed a Masters level program online (not a degree) in order to get my teaching certification.

It was no problem at all with the certification or employment.

Many if not most "name brand" schools offer online programs.

Here are a few:

Indiana University

Indiana State University

Purdue

Duke

Harvard

Stanford

Governor's State (Illinois)

Virginia Tech

I would stay away from the online only schools.  They are expensive and some do not have very good reputations.

An online degree from a "bricks" school will not even indicate that the degree was completed online.

Only you have to know.

Answer 3

I received my associates degree from Clarion University and am getting my bachelor's from Phoenix (they also have actual campus locations).  Washington State Univeristy offers some great online degrees.  It is the newest and best way for those of us who work and have families to get a degree.  It is harder, as you are not sitting listening to lectures.  But, I have worked hard and am holding a 3.7 GPA at this time.  You can do it and it is worth the effort.  It can be quite expensive - do your research and speak to a representative and read all of the literature BEFORE  you committ.