Working in job recruitment and job placement services has taught me how to not only help employers and job seekers connect, but to also provide sound advice in education pursuits. For many job seekers, adequate education is the key to finding the right job. Today, while working in the labor center, I came across a job seeker who was considering an online PhD program but didn’t know where to start in her research.
Lifestyle Dynamics
If you are considering an online PhD program, like my client, then you’ll want to take your lifestyle into consideration as a key part of your research. For many PhD students, using strict online classroom settings may not be ideal. Considering your family dynamics, finances, and ultimate career goals will help in narrowing down the PhD program that is most suitable for you.
Classroom Versus Online Instruction
In speaking with my client today, one common misconception kept creeping up in our discussions. After listening intently, I came to realize that she was looking to pursue her online PhD because, in her mind, it seemed to be an easier route than going into a traditional classroom setting. To my surprise, she truly believed the program would be an easier academic route, in addition to providing the freedom of time and allowing lifestyle accommodations. This, as I told her, could not be further from the truth.
In actuality, an online PhD degree program can be just as intense as an in-classroom setting and often can be even more demanding. Because schools and professors understand the freedom that typically comes from online classes, they will not only grade harder but place more demands on assignments and work. So, if you are considering the online PhD, be sure to ask other students about the level of difficulty as you may find that a true in-classroom setting is more appropriate for your learning needs.
Accreditation & Recognition
When we finally sat down and looked at her list of schools for her education pursuit, one very strong issue jumped right out at me – some of these schools were not academically accredited and, in one case, the online PhD program was not even a true academic pursuit. As I told her, it is important to research every school on your list as you’ll want to be sure that you are attending a school, and paying for an advanced degree program that will give you the accreditation you are looking for. Not all online education programs are recognized in the industries in which they educate and some, unfortunately, may be off-the-cuff websites, taking your money and leaving you with little to no education in exchange for it. So, always research diligently and never pursue a degree from any education institution that is not recognized and accredited.
Like many job seekers, my client today was looking for other options to boost her efforts in finding gainful employment. If, like her, you are making these same consideration, always look for the options in online programs but be sure to review these tips, first, when narrowing your selection and consider in-class room settings as well.
Sources:
Master’s Degree or PhD?
Accredited Online PhD Programs
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