Distance learning has become more accessible to aspiring learners and students around the world, thanks to online colleges. As a matter of fact, over recent years, there has been a steady demand for distance education due to its cost-efficient services and offerings compared to traditional college programs.
Through these institutions, students are able to finish their courses and their studies in a more comfortable and affordable setting. Students also save thousands of dollars while getting the same quality of education as they might with a comparable on-campus education.
What Is an Online College?
An online college is defined as an educational institution that primarily uses an Internet-based curriculum. This follows that Internet-based classes are observed in the same way, with lectures, discussions, and examinations conducted via the web. With this setting, students can earn their academic degree with the use of a computer without having to attend traditional brick-and-mortar campuses.
Distance learning education allows students to take classes with the help of the internet, providing a more convenient and accessible way of learning.
Average Costs of Online Colleges Worldwide
In the United States, the average cost of an Internet-based education ranges from $400 to $625 per credit hour. This can come out to $21,000.
In Australia, the average cost ranges between AUD $18,000 to AUD $25,000.
Meanwhile, for an undergraduate Internet-based course in Canada, this can range from CAD $5,000 to CAD $15,000.
In the United Kingdom, the average cost for an undergraduate course is £4,500, while a postgraduate degree has an average cost of £6,000.
Online College Cost Breakdown
The cost of distance learning education typically includes tuition and fees, such as the amount per credit hour. This can also include books, supplies, and other essential learning materials. These associated fees also factor in personal expenses, food, internet, and electricity consumption.
Note that distance learning excludes the cost of room and board, because you won't be living where you're learning.
You can sometimes apply for certain online college scholarships to aid your finances, too.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Online Colleges
The main factors affecting the cost of virtual colleges are the degree chosen and courses taken by the individual. Some degrees are more expensive, such as STEM degrees that often imply lab and equipment fees.
Another factor that can affect the rates for these programs is the length of the course and the varying rates between schools.
In addition to these influences, another component that plays a big role in the rates of these colleges is a higher tuition charge for international or non-resident students.
Additional Costs Associated with Online Colleges
Additional costs that come with studying in these institutions include application fees and out-of-state fees. Other fees associated include payments for official transcripts and graduation. Exam proctoring fees, tech fees, and course-level placement assessments may also apply.
In addition to these aforementioned components, students interested in taking up studies via the Internet would do well to consider costs related to having a high-speed Internet connection, as this will be crucial to your day-to-day operations.
Conclusion
Distance learning education via electronic colleges is a practical and affordable tool that can often save you thousands of dollars in educational costs. Here, the average cost of your online education will range from $18,000 to $25,000.
More importantly, you can experience maximum flexibility and lifestyle convenience when finishing your education via an Internet-based curriculum. If you are interested in learning from your own home, an online college might just be your best bet.
