An online degree: Five questions you must ask

Education doesn't come cheap, so find out a few basic things before you enrol, writes UmmeSalma Mujtaba.

1. Is help available?

Support is just one of several factors anyone enrolling in an online course should consider. It is critical and it comes in several ways. Both before a student enrolls and after. 

2. Am I tech enough?

One of the most basic questions to consider is whether you have the right technology to work with. Most online programme sites should provide that information. Some universities particularly mention that their computer platforms go back to Windows 95! Others use the most current Windows releases. Therefore it's a good idea to be up to date.  

3. Is my computer equipped for the class?

Most programmes will require at least a 56K modem. Some courses include streaming video, which is best viewed with a faster connection. 

4. How much time will be spent online?

The institution you enrol with should provide this information beforehand. The syllabus should not only give the online time, but what you will have to do online versus what you can do on your own. You must also have the information on whether you could do assignments offline and turn them in during a short period of online time. If the material is online, can it be downloaded for later reading? Too much time online spoils a course. Cyber time should be focused on interchanges with fellow students and instructors, not passive activities. 

5. What are the class requirements?

It is important to know how much flexibility you have in completing assignments. In many online courses you cannot turn in assignments whenever you feel like. The timetables given out must show a detailed time frame.