While many students choose to begin their college experience on campus, some end up switching and completing the remainder of their degree online. Wondering if you can switch to online classes in college? For many, the answer is yes. However, there are a few things you should do to make the switch to online school as seamless as possible.
Consider the differences between on-campus and online learning
There are many pros to earning your degree online. Online degrees can be completed at your own pace, from anywhere in the world. This is a big draw for students and many use the flexibility to their advantage, allocating portions of their time elsewhere, like a job or family. Additionally, you may find that earning your degree online is the more affordable and efficient option.
While there are pros to making the switch to online school, there are also considerations to keep in mind. If you choose to complete your degree online, you won’t get to attend courses in a traditional, campus setting. Additionally, to be successful, you must feel confident setting time aside for your studies and learning on your own.
Do your research
When deciding if transferring to online classes is right for you, there are several things you should research.
- Find out if your degree is offered online.
You want to make sure the degree you’ve been pursuing on campus is offered in an online format. If it isn’t offered online at your current university, look into other universities with online programs to ensure you don’t have to start from scratch.
- Look into accreditation.
It’s important to make sure the online school you choose is accredited. According to the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), “accreditation emphasizes quality assurance and a commitment to continuous quality enhancement.” Not only will accreditation impact the validity of your degree, but it’s also something employers use to determine if you’re qualified for a job.
- Review the student support services.
Even though you aren’t completing your courses on campus, many universities still offer support services to online students. Some student support services that may empower you to succeed in an online program include time management coaches, tutors, career advisors, technical resources and more.
- Learn what credits transfer to an online university.
When making the switch from campus to an online degree, you want to make sure your credits transfer too. That way, you don’t have to retake any courses you’ve already completed.
A few things to research when looking at transferring your credits are:
- Limits on the number of credits you can transfer.
- How your credits transfer.
- Available articulation agreements.
ASU students: Finish your degree online
If you’re a student at Arizona State University currently pursuing a degree on campus, you may be able to complete your degree online. While ASU’s on-campus students are eligible to change their learning modality to online, every student’s situation is different. This is due to varying degree programs, available courses and financial situations. Speak with your student services advisor to see if transferring to an online program is right for you.
Have questions? We’re here to help! Visit ASU Online's transfer application page for more information.