1. Accreditation
Finding out about a school’s accreditation is perhaps the most important factor. This alone could change the course of your schooling and what you do with your degree, so it is important to also research how long a school has held accreditation and if there have been any lapses. Some schools are regionally accredited or nationally accredited, while others may have qualifications on certain courses. Depending on the line of study that you plan to take, you may also need to make sure that those specific classes are accredited through the national licensing agency.
2. Course load
Whether you are considering online or brick and mortar schools, most colleges have a minimum course load that is required for both residency and upper division rules. Often this is determined through the completion of a certain amount of classes within a specific time period. The amount of work that you will be required to do at once can be a big consideration when you are choosing a college.
3. Scheduling
Scheduling will tie in to the considerations of your course load as well. Brick and mortar schools have classes at specific times, which you will be required to attend, while many online courses will have deadlines for work or time slots for open discussion. You will need to make sure that you can manage these responsibilities within any existing schedule you may have.
4. On campus and online Many brick and mortar schools offer online options, even for students who are living on campus. This can offer you some greater flexibility not just in daily life but also in how quickly you would like to complete your education. If you are planning on being in attendance it can be wise to also look in to online options. If you are planning on completing your degree online, it is also important to compare any differences in class options. College-Scholarships.com can help you with comparison tools to weigh your choices.
5. Specialties
Although not everyone knows the exact direction of their education when they first enroll, most people have a general idea of the career paths that interest them. If you have a specific major in line, then it will be important to make sure that your school offers strengths in these courses.
6. Location Whether you are considering online or campus based classes, location is important. Some lines of study will require that you visit the campus to complete a practicum and this can influence your decision of schools. Other times, you may be able to qualify for state based scholarships, even if you have chosen online classes for a college that is in the same state where you live.
7. Provisions
If you have a disability, you will want to make sure that your college has provisions and services that will benefit you. This can apply to both online and campus courses, and should be listed with health services or specifically under disability considerations.
8. Accelerated learning options
While most colleges have a required course load, not all colleges will allow for a faster learning track. Some schools will require that you complete a certain amount of credits before you can double up on classes, so you will want to make sure that these allowances are in keeping with your own goals.
9. Transfers
Find out about the process of transferring credits. This can be important if you have completed credit classes in the past and would like to have that go towards your transcript. Transferring can also become an issue if you are moving on to graduate classes, or if you decide to switch schools.
10. Learning environment
How classes are conducted can play a large part in your educational success. This can include a lecture versus a discussion format, as well as a regimented or self-motivated education format.
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