There are many types of online degree programs. Some are better than others and some are created as money machines. Here are some question you should ask:
- Cost
- Accredited by the government
- FAQs (frequently asked questions), getting started, readiness assessment
- Technical requirements, technical help, software assistance
- Workshops, training, online tutorials availability
- Distance education best practices used
- Distance education issues (accessibility, assessment, incentives)
- Demonstration or sample of courses / learning units
- Student forums, threaded discussion, learning communities, bulletin boards, satisfaction surveys
- Reviews of courses / units
- Honors, awards, grants available
- Standard forms for student use (registration, medical, library card)
- Policies, practices in place
- Institutional affiliations
- Library access
- Textbooks and journals available online
- Resource links
Find out more about online degree programs - Distance Education - Guideline for Good Practice
Find out more about effective practices in distance education - Guidelines for Effective Distance Education