If you have made the decision to go back to school, you may be unsure about whether you should choose a traditional site-based school or a distance education program. Here are some advantages to choosing online education that you should take into account when making this decision:

• Availability of courses: Many traditional schools offer certain courses on a limited basis so you may have to wait a semester or even more to get the course you want. At Blackstone, which features open enrollment, you can start your program at any time – you don’t need to wait for a new semester to start.

• Lower costs: Tuition at many distance education schools is lower than that of traditional schools. Online schools like Blackstone can offer lower tuition because we do not have the costs associated with maintaining a campus. Furthermore, Blackstone includes the cost of books in tuition, unlike most site-based institutions.

• Saving time: Online students save time by not having to commute or hunt for a parking space – time that can be spent studying or enjoying family activities.

• Scheduling flexibility: Are you a morning person? Then as a distance education student you can choose to study at the time of day that’s best for you. If you work, you can schedule your study sessions in the evening or whatever time is most convenient. This flexibility is very helpful in alleviating stress when you are juggling a job, school and other commitments.

• Setting your own pace: Not all distance education schools allow you to set your own pace. But Blackstone does, giving you optimum flexibility. You can read your study materials and take your exams whenever you wish, as long as you complete your program within the time allowed (two years for career diploma programs and one year for advanced paralegal certificate courses).

• Providing options when you return to work: If you are a stay-at-home parent or you are unemployed, pursuing your education will offer advantages when you are looking for a job. By furthering your education, you are demonstrating that you used your time at home wisely and you are keeping your skills up-to-date.

• Specialization: Some site-based or distance education schools will have course requirements to fulfill that may not pertain to your career goals. At Blackstone, your studies will be focused on preparing you for a job in the field you choose to study. For busy adults, this can be important in allowing you to use your available time most efficiently.

• Avoiding weather hassles: It’s 7:00 p.m. on a cold, rainy night. Where would you rather be: driving to your 7:30 p.m. class or seated at your computer in your warm and cozy home office?

If the criteria above are important to you, then distance education can be the right choice for you. To explore what career options you can choose through Blackstone’s online training programs, visit our new Choose a Career Web page.

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