Congratulations on your decision to go back to school! Whatever your reason for returning to school, distance education offers a flexible and convenient option for those with family and work responsibilities. If you have been out of school for more than a year, the tips below will help you get started.
- Review your previous college experience.
Do you plan to continue the same program of study or are you planning to change your major? Would you benefit from a refresher course before starting?
- What do you want to achieve?
It's a good idea to know where you're going before you start. Do you want to complete a degree or certificate program or are you looking to take a few courses for career promotion? Perhaps you want to learn simply for personal enrichment? If you are undecided, consider taking a few courses as a nondegree student until you decide which major or plan of study you want to follow. Be advised that some colleges and universities may require you to repeat courses taken more than 10 years ago.
- Is your program of study available at a distance?
The ICN Program Catalog provides a complete listing of all degree, certificate, licensure, and endorsement programs offered entirely at a distance, complete with plans of study so you can see what is expected in each program. If you would like to know more about the courses involved, the ICN Course Catalog also provides detailed information on every distance education course, including delivery methods and prerequisites.
- Are you comfortable using technology?
Because distance education courses are delivered via technology, such as the Internet, CD-ROMs/DVDs, and videoconferencing, you need to be confident of your abilities to use the required technology. You might find an introductory computer class at your local library or learning center helpful.
- Are you an independent learner?
Distance education students must be self-motivated and comfortable working alone, because most of the learning is done independently.
- What about your finances?
Are you planning to pay out-of-pocket for your courses or will you be looking for other sources of funding to finance your education?
- Advising is essential.
If you are pursuing a degree, or expect to be, it is extremely important to obtain academic advising from your Home Institution before registering. The academic advisor at your Home Institution is an expert in your program of study and knows the courses you need to complete a degree or certificate. Without an academic advisor, you could easily register for a course that won't count toward your program. Your academic advisor may also be able to suggest alternative classes that you can take as replacements for degree requirements. If you need a specific course to finish your program, your academic advisor can approve your taking a class from another ICN partner, without jeopardizing your financial aid.
- Is distance learning right for you?
Only you can determine whether distance education is right for you. Successful distance learners are self-disciplined, self-motivated, and do not require regular reminders from the instructor or classmates to meet deadlines. Perhaps one of the following quizes will help you decide.
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