If you want to earn a degree online, you need to know what’s available, as not all types of programs are offered. You first need to decide what type of degree you want to get, or what type of industry you want to work within, such as healthcare, computers or business. An online associate or a bachelor’s degree are both possibilities, and you can also earn an online diploma. Online learning gives you access to all the materials you need and instructors who can guide you in your learning. Plus, you get the added bonus of learning on a flexible schedule, so you can balance work, life and your studies. There are many different fields of online study for you to consider, which can help you to advance your career. Some focus on vocational skills, while others give you a wider choice of how to use your new qualifications, such as a business degree. Here are the types of degrees you can earn online.
Diplomas
You might be considering a diploma, which is a fast and efficient way to improve your qualifications. A diploma typically takes less than a year to complete, which makes it ideal if you’re short on time. At IMBC, our Medical Insurance Billing Coding and Medical Office Administrator programs can typically be completed in under a year, and set you up with skills matched directly to specific occupations. With a diploma, you are skipping general education courses that make the program longer, in areas such as math, science, English and humanities. Online courses still typically follow a set schedule, but you’ll be able to study on your own time preference (morning, noon, evening or late night), and then submit assignments when required.
Associate Degree
An associate degree at an accredited online institution such as IMBC, takes around 18 months to complete. The IMBC Medical Records Technician associate degree typically takes one and a half years to complete. An associate degree takes you further, helping you to cover more topics by including some general education materials such as math and composition. These courses round out your degree, turning a diploma into an associate degree.
Bachelor’s Degree
You can also study for a bachelor’s degree online, which usually takes four years, or more, depending on the pace you complete your courses. A bachelor’s degree provides a more advanced study of your program, giving you a more mastery of your concentration. Additionally, you’ll usually complete general studies courses in areas of math, science, language and humanities. Some people who do an associate degree choose to continue their study and apply their courses toward a bachelor’s degree. This is often called degree laddering, but depends on whether your associate degree courses are transferable to other institutions.
The Benefits of Learning Online
Learning online has a range of benefits. If you choose to study online, you often complete your program at your own pace, including an accelerated one, so that you can attain your credentials and work in your field sooner. You also won’t need to commute, so you can save on gas and time, which is great for people who want to work full time and earn their degree. Your flexible schedule makes it easier to take care of other commitments while you study, such as your family.
You have a number of options for earning qualifications online. Choose the best option for you by exploring what’s available.