Online Army education programs are gaining popularity and recognition with active duty soldiers as they fill the distinctive requirements of armed service members. Online and traditional colleges have certain distance learning programs that are designed just for soldiers, which allow them to take full advantage of the benefits that service members enjoy.

How Online Degree Programs Help Army Soldiers

Standard campus based university courses are not designed keeping in mind the requirements of Army soldiers and service members. The development of the internet as an educational tool has altered the educational environment. Nowadays the many shifts in duty stations and disruptive deployments do not handicap soldiers that are seeking higher education.

Distance Learning For Army Soldiers

Numerous nationally and regionally accredited colleges and universities have developed online degree programs that are flexible and can mould themselves according to the timetables of armed forces members. Degree programs like these are accessible from almost anywhere. Online Army education programs are appropriate for soldiers and armed services members that are asked to perform duties far away from home.

Department of Defense and Army Education Benefits

Most online degree programs work together with the DoD to allow army soldiers to take advantage of army education benefits. These programs also allow service member to use credits gained through army education programs like DANTES and placement tests like CLEP.

Financial Assistance for Online Degree Programs for U.S. Army Soldiers

In addition to the above benefits there are economic assistance packages with grants, scholarships and other military educational benefits that may be used to help ease the cost of tuition for accredited online degree programs. Some colleges and universities have staff assigned to help army soldiers on their base to optimize their educational programs and benefits. Army veterans that want to attend online colleges or regular college scan also use these financial benefits and can check online for the specific benefits they can take advantage of.

Educational benefits are given to army soldiers to show gratitude for their sacrifice and service. Because of which more and more army soldiers are accessing education online programs.

Financial aid for Army soldiers acquiring online degrees are covered under the New GI Bill.

Online Degree Programs Growing To Assist Army Soldiers

The convenient and flexible schedule of distance learning programs has helped online degrees gain popularity with students in the army. These soldiers are taking advantage of the opportunities they have and advancing in their careers.

Distance education and online learning are becoming more popular now than ever before. Even celebrities are taking advantage of distance learning and earning online degrees. Some even have high IQs and went to traditional colleges and universities and hold advanced degrees. Due to their busy work schedules and lifestyles these celebrities have signed upfor online classes and are earning online degrees.

Let’s take a look at the top 8 celebrities with online degrees, taking online classes or have dropped out of distance education, or are in the process of earning an online degree.

1. Hilary Duff

Remember Hilary Duff from the Disney Channel where she played Lizzie Maguire? Hilary has since moved on to a singing career. She recorded pop albums and even started her own clothing line. In 2010, Duff was said to be taking online classes from Harvard University Extension School.

2. Shaquille O’Neal

Everyone knows Shaq! Shaquille O’Neal now plays for the NBA, but did you know that he started his education at Louisiana State University? Yes, but he actually dropped out to play professional basketball. He later returned to Louisiana State University and now holds a bachelor’s degree in General Studies. He also earned his master’s of business administration from a well respected online university.

3. Didiayer Snyder

Most of you have seenDidiayer Snyder on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” Synderattended Ashworth College and holds diplomas in interior decorating and carpentry from a popular online school.

4. Lil Wayne

This rapper is currently pursuing an online degree in political science and is taking advantage of the many convenient online courses available on the Internet. These online classes are a perfect fit this hip-hop star.

5. Sasha Cohen

Sasha Cohen is a champion figure skater. In 2010, Cohen was studying nutrition through Penn State’s World Campus distance learning program.

6. Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie is famous for her basketball skills. Leslie holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Southern California. She also earned her MBA online from a very popular online university.

7. Mary Peters

Mary Peters was the former Secretary of Transportation. Peters earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited online University in management.

8. James Franco

James Franco has been staring in many movies while studying at UCLA and taking online courses. He is also studying at Columbia via distance education.

One of the requirements for distance learning education is that you have a reliable computer and unlimited internet access. Laptops are great for online learning because you can take them anywhere with you and still have access to your online classroom wherever there is internet connection. You can simply log in to your class and complete your work from anywhere and at anytime. Laptops are the most convenient for distance learning students.

Laptops for Online Learning

There are a lot of laptops to choose from and prices to fit any budget. These laptops range from the big screen desktop replacements to the extra light ultra portables. They all have many features in common. Choosing which laptop is best for you is a difficult task because there are so many to choose from. The list of laptops below will help you narrow your choices and make a decision that will fit your requirements to learn online.

The Top 8 Laptops for Distance Learning Students are:

• 1. Dell XPS 15
• 2. Dell Studio 1537
• 3. HP Pavilion dv7-4183cl
• 4. Gateway ID49C13u
• 5. Acer Aspire AS5745-7247
• 6. Sony VAIO VPC-Z1390X
• 7. Toshiba Satellite T235-S1350
• 8. Apple MacBook Notebook

Computer Requirements for Online Learning

As a distance learning student, it is probably best to have your own computer so that you can have access to your online classroom at anytime. Make sure the computer you decide to get have the minimum requirements for web-based learning. Computer requirements for online learning may vary so check with the online school you plan to attend to see what their requirements are. Some of the basic computer hardware and software requirements for web-based education are as follow:

• 1GB of RAM or above
• Monitor Resolution of 1024 X 768
• Keyboard and mouse
• Speaker
• Sound card
• Cable modem/DSL
• DVD Rom drive
• Microsoft Office XP
• Windows XP Operating System
• Firefox, Mozilla, Netscape, Safari or Internet Explorer

Choose Your Laptop Wisely

The 8 laptops listed will help you narrow down your choice so that you can get started with your online learning effectively. Take your time to research each one before making a decision. Keep in mind that the laptop you choose will have to last for the duration of your online education, so do not make a short-term plan — think longevity!

Distance Learning Education has created a strong place in providing education solution to fit individual’s need. The endless options and degree types ranging from diplomas & certificates to associate, bachelors, masters, doctorate degree programs offered by distance education providers give a much needed break to anyone who is willing to pursue education. We created a list some of the best International Universities offering distance learning degrees. Choose your online college wisely after checking programs, courses offered & accreditation of these institutes. Feel free to share other online college that you think are missing from this list.

Atlantic International University (AIU)

Atlantic International University online distance learning degree programs are for adult learners at the bachelor’s, masters and doctoral level. You will find a wide range of majors and areas of study that are affordable and allow you to finish college, earn a degree and advance in your career.

Bircham International University (BIU)

Offers distance learning degree programs at professional, undergraduate and graduate levels. At Bircham International University distance learning degree programs, they are committed to fulfilling the needs of the adult professional by offering a variety of distance learning degrees at the bachelor’s (B.B.A., B.S., B.A), Masters (M.B.A., M.S., M.A), Doctorate (Ph.D.) and professional diplomas through a full distance learning program.

Florida International University (FIU) – School of Hospitality and Tourism Management

At Florida International University distance learning, has one of the highest rated hospitality and tourism programs in the United States. Producing over 1400 graduate students each year, from the United States and around the world; Florida International University offers Bachelor’s of Science in Hospitality Management, Master of Science in Hospitality Management and Executive Master of Science in Hospitality Management degree programs as well as certificates programs in various hospitality, hotel, restaurant, travel and tourism specializations.

Jones International University (JIU) – Online MBA Program

Jones International University distance learning Master of Business Administration degree programs are specifically designed for working professionals who want to meet their academy and professional goals by offering MBA degree specializations in: Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Global Enterprise Management, Health Care Management, Information Security Management, Information Technology Management, Negotiation and Conflict Management and Project Management.

University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool is internationally recognized for excellence in teaching, research and innovation. It is one of the most highly respected higher education institutions in the UK and its graduates occupy senior positions in industry, commerce and culture around the world.

Virtual Global University (VIU)

Pursue an International Master of Business Informatics (MBI) degree online at Virtual Global University. The MBI program is accredited by the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA)

How do I know if the International University is Credible and Legitimate?

It is important to seek out a distance learning international university that has its’ accreditation from a reputable organization. Look for institutions that have been accredited and that are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

How do I Find the Right Online School for Me?

There are some attributes you should look for when choosing a distance learning international university, such as academic programs, school’s accreditation status, financial aid benefits and other international benefits offered. It is best to do an extensive research so that you can make a well informed decision that will be best for you.

Earning your degree creates new opportunities for you professionally and personally. Walden offers a flexible online format that delivers practical knowledge and strategies you can use immediately.

Participate in a convenient online learning experience that includes multimedia content, systems design and development tools and online collaboration tools, many of which can be accessed on your home computer or on the road.

About Walden University and Online Degree Program

Established in 1970, Walden University offers a wide range of degree including the Bachelors of Science (BS) in Computer Information Systems. The Bachelors of Science (BS) in Computer Information Systems degree program offered by Walden University online is designed to prepare you for the real-world. Through distance learning Walden University has provided working professionals a unique opportunity to advance their degrees anywhere in the world.

Bachelors of Science (BS) in Computer Information Systems

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems program is designed to prepare you with the technical and business skills to use technology to help people and organizations as you advance your career in information systems—the fastest growing sector in the economy according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Gain the knowledge to work collaboratively within your organization to analyze and evaluate information processing needs and construct solutions from an ever-changing set of technologies.

Learning Outcomes

The B.S. in Computer Information Systems program helps you develop a broad understanding of information systems and strong problem-solving and analytical skills. In this program, you will learn to

• Apply fundamental business analysis methods to understand the organizational and economic characteristics of organizations.
• Work ethically and effectively with others to implement new processes and systems in an organization.
• Apply the fundamental concepts of information systems and technology to organizational and societal priorities.
• Model real-world situations for information systems support.
• Work with stakeholders to ensure that specification, design, and implementation of information systems meet their needs.
• Analyze the ethical, legal, and social impact dimensions of your work.
• Apply best practices to manage information systems projects and programs.
• Reflect thoughtfully on personal goals within a dynamic and evolving profession.

University Accreditation (Regional)

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. The North Central Association is one of the six officially recognized regional bodies in the United States authorized to accredit colleges and universities. The North Central Association is a U.S. membership organization for educational institutions that was created to develop and maintain high standards of academic excellence

Walden University program blends academic theory with hands-on experience so that you can:

• Acquire the skill set most sought after by today’s information technology managers, including the interdisciplinary skills least likely to be outsourced.
• Gain experience in group analysis and design projects; in communicating effectively with co-workers, employers, and other professionals; and in using specialized information technology tools.
• Work in collaborative distributed teams, the work style of the future.
• Translate your distance learning experience to the workplace and improve your ability to work across organizational, disciplinary and geographic boundaries.

Faculty at Walden University Online

The Faculty at Walden University is highly trained and knowledgeable in their respected fields. The Faculty is committed to producing life-long learners and providing graduates with the tools necessary to achieve meaningful careers.

Financial Aid at Walden University

There is a variety of financial aid packages available to qualified applicants. You can choose from Scholarships, Federal Aid, Limited-Time Scholarships and Tuition Savings.

Online education becoming more popular these days, the need for online educators is on the rise. More and more students are finding online teaching an excellent career option. “How do you go about getting an online teaching job?” is the discussion here.

Online Vs Campus Teaching

Online teaching is very different from the traditional teaching atmosphere. The teacher will never get a chance to meet his or her students. They are required to deliver their teaching effectively and efficiently without even getting a feel of students and their response. These online teachers are required to adhere to a set of principles while delivering an online lecture.

Educational Qualifications

Qualifying for an online teacher’s job is much similar to the regular requirements. A bachelor’s degree with teaching license is needed for high school teaching; master’s and doctoral degree with teaching license are the requirements for community and university level degree faculty requirements respectively. Adjunct online professors are also considered for online teaching requirements without considering the fact that they do not adhere to regular educational qualifications. While the degrees are one side of the preference, those with online management capabilities and prior experience in the field of online learning are better preferred for an online teaching job.

Advantages of Online Teaching

Online teaching job is extremely convenient given that you can work from anywhere for any University irrespective of its geographical location. Since online teaching is more often asynchronous, teaching can be done at any convenient time. Although there is no face to face with the students, teachers get a opportunity to meet students from across the globe by way of online interactive platforms. It is indeed an excellent opportunity for all those who are looking for a work from home opportunity.

Shortcomings of Online Teaching

Teachers are more often required to follow a preset curriculum and method of teaching online. Hence they might not be in a position to follow their style and effective method of teaching students. Teaching with absolutely no interaction is boring and monotonous, depriving teachers of liveliness while teaching. The method of evaluating online teaching often determines the recognition for the job and the value it carries to be noted as a work experience.

Online Teaching Jobs

Online teaching job requirements are often posted online across various websites. Eligible teachers should keep a track of job openings and apply for the same. An online search bearing the words “online teaching”, online teachers”, “distance learning” will let you know about the requirements online.


Online education being the order of the day, an online teaching job is indeed one of the most promising careers in the field of teaching.