Although the popularity of online colleges is on the increase, online colleges are not for all students. Before choosing whether to attend an online institution, one must first perform a self-assessment to determine if you can cope with the requisites of being a successful online student.

First, forget about the notion that I will choose a particular online institution because that the one my friends choose. Every student have varying educational capabilities and this will become evident when the course work becomes difficult. An online college is like cloths, one size does not fit all.


Ensure that you have the time to dedicate to your studies. Because classes of online colleges are unsupervised, it makes it easy for students to miss classes. As a result, studying online requires significant self-motivation and discipline to be successful. Students must establish and maintain their schedule in order to complete their course within a specified time.


If you are an individual who does not want to travel or relocate to attend college, then online colleges are your answer. With online colleges, the classroom is brought to your living room and you can study in your own convenience. Although the social interaction is restricted to digital contact, the distractions of traditional institutions is eliminated allowing students to study undisturbed. This model also benefits individuals whose learning patterns favor the use of technology such as web conference, email and chat rooms.


Do not be fooled by thinking that because the course is done online that there will be any difference in the quality of the material. All online colleges must be accredited based on the quality of their online course work. As a result, if you think you will struggle in a traditional institution, chances are you will struggle also in an online college. However, online colleges have one secret weapon. Online college students are able to revisit previous course with the click of a button. So this can be used to re-enforce whatever week points they may have.

Questions to Ask Yourself

As mentioned before, a personal examination is required before making a decision if an online college is best for you. Some of the questions students can ask themselves are:

• Do I need to be in a classroom environment to bring out my best educational achievements or I can survive on my own
• Do I have to have face to face contact with a professor to be able to understand the course work material
• How technologically savvy am I? How well do I navigate the internet and can access web media
• Do I have the discipline to study on my own
• Due I have the time to dedicate to my studies

Top Online Colleges

There are many online colleges available, offering courses in just about any subject area and specialization known. Many accreditation boards are used to maintain the standards of these online colleges however, not all will be at the same standard. Some of the most accredited online colleges are:

• Kaplan University
• Ashford University
• Liberty University Online
• DeVry University

Students want to attend the best possible university available to them. The online educational system has now made it easy for students to access universities that are outside their geographic locality. As a result, all the barriers have been broken down with respect to the best universities reserved only for the rich who can relocate or exceptional achievers who receive scholarships.
In addition, students want the best universities available to ensure that public accepts their degree and allows them to have a secure and fruitful career. When applying for online universities, there are certain indicators that applicants must look for to assess the institution. These include:

• University Accreditation: This is a serious issue as it affects your future directly. No one wants to spend years in a university only to find out that their degree is worthless. The better online universities will have accreditation from one of the six regional accrediting associates within the United States. Accredited universities have proven records of accomplishment and have readily available information on all aspects of the university’s operation.
• Success Rate: Not all universities have perfected their online degree program. This is because many traditional universities are now crossing over to the online format, while others are just plain low in quality. As a result, they will have glitches in their system. The more experienced online universities have well-oiled mechanisms in place with qualified teachers and a close relationship with industry players.
• Certified Online Faculty: This is another growing problem as traditional institutions gravitate to online learning . Many of their teachers are not trained to teach in an online environment. As a result, they are unable to get the best out of the system. The better online universities have teachers who have received this specialized training and will advertise this along with other promotions.
• Financial Aid Options: Financial aid is less common with online universities when compared to traditional institutions. However, the more established online universities may offer their applicants low interest loans for the pursuit of their online education. This is because of the recognized contribution of the university by the government who then extend financial assistance to the university’s students through student loan programs. Students will naturally select those online universities that offer their desired course along with financial aid.
• Satisfied Graduates: Do not focus on the advertising pitch of the university. Try to get feedback from actual past students of the universities of interest. Look at achievement records of past students and how much they place their success or failure on the contribution made by the university. Prospective students can also check affiliate associations that give assessment of their members.
• Job Placement Assistance: This is an important issue for many students as they require a job as quickly as possible after graduating so they can start servicing their student loan. The better online universities will offer some form of job counseling or placement for their graduates.
• Cost: Make sure that any online university you apply for you can meet the financial obligations. It makes no sense with prior knowledge of you inability to pay, to enroll in an institution and wait for a miracle to pay your school fees.

Capella University is well known for providing quality higher education to adults and is launching two new online degree programs and three new specializations. Capella University announced that it is now offering a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Public Health (MPH) degree which replaces its Master of Science in Public Health program, and three concentrations that can be completed as part of selected public service degree programs: Security Management at the Bachelor level and Homeland Security and Public Health at the graduate level.

Growing Demand for Bachelor-prepared Nurses

The National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice requires that a minimum of two-thirds of the nurses hold baccalaureate of higher degrees. Capella University new online Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN to BSN Degree Completion specialization offers RNs the flexibility to complete their BSN degree online with ease. Online degree program at Capella University incorporates the essentials of baccalaureate education for professional nursing practice established by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).

BS/MS in Psychology Option Saves Time and Money

Capella University is now offering a combined BS/MS in Psychology option. After completing at least 100 undergraduate credits, eligible BS in Psychology students can begin to earn their master level credits which can be used toward completing the BS in Psychology. These master level credits may also be applied towards a MS in Psychology degree. Over $4,500 can be saved if each degree is purchased separately and the time required to complete the MS is shorter.

Online MPH Addresses Impending Shortage of Public Health Workers

According to the Partnership for Public Service’s recent report, “Where the Jobs Are 2009: Mission-Critical Opportunities for America,” the biggest demand for government workers will be in the area of medical and public health, where more than 54,000 jobs will need to be filled in the next three years. Similar needs have been projected at other levels of government and in the private sector.


To help meet that need, Capella University is offering a Master of Public Health degree program with three specializations: a new specialization in General Public Health; and two specializations, Health Management and Policy; and Social and Behavioral Sciences, previously offered as part of MS in Public Health degree.

Concentrations Provide Cost-effective Opportunity to Add Area of Focus to Degree

Capella University is now providing students in selected public service degree programs and specializations the option to add a concentration in Public Health or Homeland Security (at the graduate level), or Security Management (at the bachelor level). The concentrations consist of three online courses at the graduate level or five courses at the Bachelor level. In many instances, students can use their electives to complete these courses and add a concentration for little or no additional time or money.


“We’re pleased to add a BS in Psychology to the baccalaureate degrees we offer,” said Feranda Williamson, EdD, dean of Capella School of Undergraduate Studies. “Our program is designed around the American Psychological Association (APA) Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major and emphasizes, writing, research, problem solving, and synthesizing and evaluating information. These are skills that have broad applications and are valued in a wide range of professions beyond psychology.


“Our bachelor program in Psychology also leverages the academic credentials and rich experience of the faculty in our graduate-level Harold Abel School of Psychology, which offers more than a dozen master and doctoral specializations in the field of psychology. For students who want to continue their education in psychology at Capella University, we have developed a Combined BS/MS in Psychology Option.”

About Capella University

Founded in 1993, Capella University is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). Capella University has built its reputation on providing quality education for working adults and has over 80 percent of it students currently enrolled in master or doctoral degree programs in a variety of fields.


With over 31,000 students enrolled in 2009, Capella University is committed to providing higher quality education to busy students worldwide.

Enrollment is Now Open at Capella University Online

Capella University is currently accepting enrollment applications for its new Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Enroll today!

Today, the role of Human Resources managers are becoming increasingly important .The field of Human Resource management has evolved to include many social issues that affects businesses daily. No longer is the role of Human Resource manager limited to mundane duties such as handling paperwork, recruiting and training of personnel. Human resource mangers now play an important role in making strategic decisions, conflict resolution, negotiations as well as acting as a liaison for their organizations. Earning a Human Resources Graduate Certificate online allows you to upgrade your knowledge, skills and career to meet these ever changing demands.

Online Human Resources Graduate Certificates suit individuals seeking to secure the appropriate training and credentials to enter into the field as well as functioning Human Resources personnel seeking to enhance their career opportunities as the field of Human Resources continues to expand.

Human Resources Graduate Certificates Online Overview

Human Resources Graduate Certificates Online programs are typically one year programs that cater to students from the beginner to the advanced levels. Human Resources Graduate Certificates online programs gives students a strong foundation in core areas of Human Resources to not only meet the evolving changes of the profession, but also to exhibit the highest professional standard established by the discipline.

These programs comprises of eight modules that are broken down into two phases. The first phase involves core courses that focus heavily on areas related to Human Resources including topics such as:

• Human Resource Management
• Managing Organizational Change
• Employment Law
• Training and Development
• Dispute Resolution
• Communication

The second phase requires students to complete at least two electives specific to their particular interest. Electives may include online courses such as International Human Resource Management, Dispute Resolution and Conflict Management, Benefits, Negotiation Skills and Human Resources and Technology.

Most accredited online colleges and universities providing Human Resources Graduate Certificates Online recognize credits for courses completed in the program for graduates seeking to enroll into a Master in Human Resources Management.

Top Accredited Universities offering Human Resources Graduate Certificates Online

Accredited universities offering Human Resources Graduate Certificates Online design their programs to make higher education accessible to working HR professionals like you seeking to upgrade their skills to meet current industry demands. Some of the leading accredited universities providing Human Graduate Certificates Online are:

Keller Graduate School of Management

Keller Graduate School of Management has been providing credible, quality and relevant graduate management programs to graduates for over three decades. Graduates of Keller Graduate School of Management garner the appropriate education and essential skills that not only replicate current industry demands but also gives them that distinct edge and confidence over the competition as they advance within their respective fields. In addition, Keller Graduate School of Management commands high respect in the job market that yields positive results for graduates armed with a Keller Graduate School of Management Degree.

New York University – School of Continuing and Professional Studies (NYU-SCPS Online)

New York University is the fourth largest and one of the most respected graduate schools in the United States. The graduate certificate programs offered at New York University, including the Human Resources Graduate Certificate Online program, are designed by leading and established industry experts to provide graduates with relevant, rigorous and practical career-focused education and training tailored to develop the requisite skills demanded by employers.

The popularity of online education has broken down all barriers that made it impossible for international students yearning to pursue a college degree abroad. Today, more and more colleges and universities are offering online versions of their regular accredited degree programs to make higher education at all levels more accessible to students and adult learners from anywhere in the world. The online learning format allows them to further their education from the comfort of home or at locations convenient to them without having to rearrange their busy lifestyle to study for their degree.

What is an Online Undergraduate Degree?

An online undergraduate degree is basically a “first degree” awarded to a person who has successfully completed undergraduate or senior courses be it at the Associate or Bachelor level. The most commonly pursued online undergraduate degree is the Bachelor degree which typically takes four years (depending on the number of courses you take) to complete. An online bachelor degree is the standard level of qualification required to obtain employment in most of today’s hottest industries in addition to keeping you on track for entry into an online graduate degree program.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for international students wishing to pursue an online undergraduate degree will vary from one university to another. However, most universities require international students to be proficient in the use of the English language. Proof of the English language can be established through one of the popular English exams such as TOEFL. This is, of course, supported by the other academic requirements such as a high school diploma or university related work experience.

Cost of Online Under Graduate Degree for International Students

One of the major advantages of the online model of education is that its fees are the same irrespective of your location. Some schools will charge for shipping if the student’s location is not in easily accessible locations. The cost of degrees to international students will vary according to the type of degree being pursued. All payments are easily done online by credit card in a safe and secure environment. Students can also pay by money order or check, but this route takes more time for verification.

Top online Universities for International Undergraduate Students

Many universities offer undergraduate courses to international students. However some stand out due to their exemplary track record and professionalism. Some of these top online universities include:

• Capella University
• DeVry University
• Walden University

Types of Online Degree for International Students

International students, once they qualify, can pursue any undergraduate degree program offered by any online university. Online universities are not concerned with your ethnic, social or religious background. Their mandate is to provide quality education to all following the pursuit of knowledge.

Tips for International Students

Before applying to an online university as an international student, several precautions must be taken to ensure the success of your studies. These include:

• Speak to a career advisor about your intentions so they can guide you in choose the best course.
• Check the credibility record of the institution of interest.
• Look at the curriculum and ensure the course is accredited
• Investigate the hardware requirements necessary to access the institutions network system.
• Compare several online universities with respect to their achievements and influence among employers.

In the past, critics of the online learning format viewed distance education with much skepticism. They believed this type of learning model lacked the quality instructional design that a traditional classroom environment provides. Today, research conducted consistently reveals that there is no distinct difference between distance learning and traditional classroom learning. In addition, the growing popularity of distance learning has influenced most organizations involved in education and training to include virtual education in their future programs.

Top Schools providing Distance Education

The growing popularity of distance learning has raised the level and quality of programs offered by online institutions of higher education. Students have the ability to choose from a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs to meet their specific interests and career objectives. Some of these leading institutions include:

• Walden University
• Kaplan University
• Capella University
• AIU Online

Advantages of Distance Education

The primary advantage of distance learning is the matter of flexibility, particularly to international students seeking to obtain a degree from an accredited US-based institution. It allows them a wider choice of institutions to suit their specific interests and one that meets the requirements of the appropriate accrediting agencies. It also provides a great opportunity for busy working professionals to gain the additional training they need to advance within their respective fields without having to leave their jobs to attend a traditional campus-based institution. Other advantages of distance education include:


Accessibility: increased access for individuals living far away from the institution and those with restricted mobility such as the handicapped or elderly


Unlimited Information Access: distance education allows for unlimited access to expert information via online research databases. In addition, most online institutions boast a digital library that allows their students to access digital books and research materials.


Increases Interaction with Technology: the online learning format allows students to conduct interactive teamwork between groups. They have the opportunity to network with each other from anywhere around the world via chat rooms, bulletin board discussions or emails.


Reduced Cost: distance learning allows for reduced tuition fees due to not utilizing the institution’s physical resources.

Students also have the ability to seek expert advice and conduct interactive discussions with instructors via internet chat rooms and emails. This fosters and promotes an intuitive and better learning environment between instructor and student. The added advantage of the online learning is students can email assignments to their instructors at anytime of the day, also the ability to revisit coursework until they have fully mastered the material.