Should I Get a Degree Online?

 

In today's era of technology, you can even get a college degree from the comfort of your own home. There are MANY options for those who want to get a college degree, but don't feel they have the time, money or discipline.

My home college, the CUNY School of Professional Studies is a great online program, and I can only speak of my experiences here. It is traditional in the sense that you register for a class, but you are enrolled for the entire semester. You "go" to your class via Blackboard, which is a virtual learning environment. You complete assignments, have discussions via the discussion board feature and fulfill requirements set forth by the professor. This is a good option for those who like a traditional learning experience (meaning a syllabus and deadlines), but can study on their own and don't need a lot of guidance, but appreciate having a teacher available to them when they need. It also gives students an opportunity to talk to each other and have dialogue.

Other colleges may offer a "self-study" or "go at your own pace" option, which allows students to finish a course as quickly or slowly as they need. This is a good option for those who don't need a teacher to assist them, or do not want to converse with classmates. If you are looking for a way to finish some courses for credit and do it on your own terms, this is a good option.

Should you go to an online college? Let's look at some requirements.

• Do you want to get your degree?
• Do you have a very busy lifestyle and don't have time to go to a class a few times a week?
• Are you good with a computer and comfortable with technology?
• Do you like to just focus on work and don't care about campus life?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, you should definitely look into getting a degree online!

DSST

 

The DSST exam, which was originated by the Department of Defense's Defense Activity for Non-traditional Academic Support (DANTES). This test was formed for military members who wanted to earn college credits for free. It is now open for the public, who can take the test for $80 (plus site testing fees, usually $20-$25). Active military members and their spouses can take the exams for free.

The exam is similar to the CLEP exam, offering 30 exams in various subjects. You can choose between a paper based exam or a computer based exam. Most exams are multiple choice, except for certain exams.

If you fail the exam, you can retake it after a period of six months.

Many colleges will offer credit for a passing DSST exam. You need to check with your home college to ensure credit will be granted for the exam you have taken and that it fits into your requirements.

I personally have taken a few DSST exams, and I like the format. If you are well prepared, you can pass the exam easily. It is not an easy exam that anyone can pass, and you must be a good test taker and be able to work under a time limit. You also must be able to study on your own without guidance from a professor. That being said, there are plenty of study aids available on the internet for the various exams.

Interested in taking the DSST? Go here to find out more!

CLEP Tests

CLEP tests are a way for students to earn college credits by testing out of subjects instead of taking classes.


The College Board (Which is responsible for the SAT and AP exams that many students take in high school) offer an examination called CLEP. According to their website, "The College-Level Examination Program® (CLEP) helps you receive college credit for what you already know, for a fraction of the cost of a college course. Developed by the College Board, CLEP is the most widely accepted credit-by-examination program, available at more than 2,900 colleges and universities. Pass any of the 33 CLEP exams and achieve your college and career goals."

At $80 (Plus a testing center fee, usually $20 or $25), CLEP is an amazingly affordable option. Right now,  the CUNY School for Professional Studies will charge you $260 per credit if you are a NYS resident, and $535 per credit if you are an out-of-state resident.(Based on part-time tuition fees).

SPS tuition for ONE CLASS (NY Resident) = $780

You can save $700 by taking a CLEP instead of a class!

Be advised, CLEP exams are NOT easy. They aren't meant to be. They are a good option if you meet the following requirements:

• You are able to self-study
• You are a good exam taker
• You can manage your time
• You already have some background in the subject matter (Even if it's a high school course)

CLEP exams cover material that you would normally find in the corresponding college course.  For example, Biology is recommended for 6 credits. This covers material that you would find in TWO semesters of biology in college. I personally took this exam and passed it, but after many weeks of studying very hard.

As always, you should check with your college to make sure you are eligible to receive credit for a specific CLEP. Some colleges only accept a certain amount of CLEP credits, and you cannot receive credit for a CLEP that corresponds with a class you have gotten credit for already.

Welcome!

Welcome to College Degree Made Easy!

 

The purpose of this blog is to help students (prospective AND current) pursue a college degree in the easiest manner. College isn't easy? Think again!

There are so many options for students to earn credit from the comfort of their own home. Whether it is online colleges, like The CUNY School of Professional Studies, or credit by examination, pursuing a college degree doesn't have to be time consuming or expensive.

Who is this blog aimed at?

• Current college students looking to graduate faster
• Adult learners who want to finish their degree
• Homeschooling parents and students
• High School Students

....and many more!

My love of education knows no bounds, and I want you to feel the same way. So buckle up! We are about to take a crazy ride!