How to select the right Internet University?

The process for choosing an Internet university is much the same as that for choosing a conventional campus. When you choose a school, you want to be sure that it is accredited, and offers the courses you want. Here are some things to look for in choosing an online school.

*Accreditation- choose an Internet university that is accredited, preferably by an organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the US Department of Education. If an online school claims that regional accreditation is not available for online schools, that is a sign that you should look elsewhere.

*Available Degree Programs- if the school does not offer the degree you are looking for, move on to the next because there are a wide variety of schools to choose from.

*A Fair Credit Transfer Policy- If you are transferring credits from a school that meets the requirements of a new degree program and earned at least a "C" grade in the course, you will usually get credit from an Internet university. The school you're transferring the credits to sets the policy, however.

*Technical Specs- Choose an online school where you would have no trouble meeting the technical requirements. Online classes have minimum standards for your hardware and software, particularly IT and computer science courses. You should also ask how the classes are taught and structured.

*Teachers/Professors- Research the faculty of the Internet university you choose. Are they graduates of well-known schools, and are their resumes available for viewing? Are the teachers accessible by phone, email or instant message? If the professor is a graduate of the college you are attending, take that as a red flag. The best online schools hire teachers with advanced degrees from recognized universities.

*Acceptance Requirements- What do you need to be admitted? Unlike conventional schools, most Internet universities do not require your ACT or SAT scores, but you will need at least a GED. You should also look at tuition- while online schools are cheaper than regular universities, they will cost more than a community college. Students of regionally accredited schools are eligible to apply for student aid through the Department of Education or through FAFSA. Even if you can get your entire tuition subsidized through one source or another, you should count on investing at least $100 of your own money, just to show that you are serious about getting a degree. It may seem like going to an Internet university is expensive, but you can think of it as an investment in your future.

For many students of Internet universities, online education is their only real choice. An online school provides a way for working adults to get the education they need without sacrificing career or personal time. When choosing an Internet university, make sure you choose one with a good support system (easily accessible teachers and tutoring), a good library and technical support system, and full accreditation. Doing your research beforehand will ensure that the school you choose will enhance your life instead of adding stress to it.