Students today are entering, through distance education, into a new type of university. With the advent of affordable and accessible college courses offered over the Internet, there are more opportunities than ever to complete a course or a degree program without leaving home.

Student Services
When you decide to enroll in a distance education program, a number of items are important in making the experience positive and meaningful. The checklist should include:

Access. Make sure you can access all academic and support areas through email, phone, or fax. You should be required to visit locations in person either seldom or not at all. Many students report that they are drawn to colleges with distance education programs that have few entrance requirements--or those that at least eliminate those entrance requirements aimed at traditional residential students.

Flexibility in Program Design. The program should be flexible in enabling you to utilize transfer credits; in obtaining college credit for successful outcomes on national examinations such as CLEP, DANTES, etc.; in having workplace training and education assessed for college credit; and in offering a specialization within a degree program designed to build on your educational objectives. Look for a program that allows you to complete course work through a variety of distance education methodologies rather than relying on one method for the entire degree program, especially at the undergraduate level. Completing all 40 courses for a baccalaureate degree solely through your PC could be a recipe for burnout.

Academic Advisor. Inquire as to whether there is someone available to work with you from start to finish-someone who can answer any questions that arise regarding the course or degree program in a timely manner and who will serve as a positive influence throughout your online education.

Financial Aid Assistance. Confirm that you will have access to all applicable financial aid information regarding available programs and student eligibility, and that financial aid staff are available to help you complete and process the required paperwork. Information on loans, college scholarships, and grant programs as well as on eligibility for federal, state, and private financial aid are all important to anyone seeking financial assistance. You should be given a clear understanding of what they are required to do if granted financial aid and have a source of information if any questions arise.

Registration Process. There should be clear instructions regarding the registration process, with staff available to assist you in completing this process quickly and easily from a distance. Look for programs that offer online registration and/or toll-free registration numbers rather than on-site, arena-style registration.

Tuition and Fees. Clearly defined tuition and fees, as well as any other expenses you will incur, are instrumental in determining the total cost of y...