Choosing a Distance Degree course is very difficult, there are many companies selling distance learning, some are genuine, some offer worthless qualifications and some are total fake’s!
The key consideration when taking a distance degree should always be the reputation of the institution awarding the degree:
I would advise finding a University that offers distance learning in the following manner:
1) Start with state / official Universities you know are genuine:
Approach Universities directly and ask if any of the following options are available:
- Part time study
- Distance learning
- Flexible leaning
Tell them your curcumstances and see what they suggest.
If they do not offer distance degrees / distance learning directly, ask if they can recommend a reliable source of information regarding online study.
2) Find out if there is a state sponsored / official organisation specifically offering offering distance learning (as opposed to state funded bricks and mortar Universities that may also offer distance degree’s).
In the UK there is what is known as the Open University. This is widely recognised, and you can be sure that you will get what you pay for.
3) If you cannot find a suitable organisation using the above methods then you will have to resort to using the internet.
Using the internet to find an online degree is very dangerous, there are a lot of fake Universities and Fake degrees being marketted online.
You need to be very careful, you need to make sure that the University is genuine and offering accredited degree’s that will be recognised by employers.
This is difficult if you are taking a course offered in another country.
Again, look for ‘known’ Universities that have been established a number of years and have some form of reputation.
Never believe what you read on a website, seek advice elsewhere, use a variety of different sources, contact the distance University directly and cross check everything you are being told.
The distance qualification:
Once you have shortlisted potential organisations offering distance degree’s, you will need to ensure the qualification is suitable.
For this you should obtain a copy of the prospectus from the distance University you plan to attend.
To help ascertain whether a degree course is suitable for you, or for that matter whether you are suited to the degree course I have another post on choosing a degree course.