An increased reliance on technology has coincided with ever-increasingly busy schedules to make online degree programs one of the fastest areas of post-secondary education. Flexible class schedules, a growing selection of available degrees ranging from associate's to doctorate's, and the ability to attend class from one's own home have all combined to make online education the preferred choice for many. A U.S. Department of Education analysis released in 2004 estimated that by 2010, there would be close to 20 million students enrolled in college level programs in the U.S. Of those, 39 percent are nontraditional students ages 25 and over, a large portion of which are obtaining their degrees via online and technology-based programs.

With the rapidly growing online degree population, the number of programs offering online degrees has grown exponentially. As is the case with traditional college campuses, some programs are more respected and a better value than others. There are several factors to consider when students are deciding which online degree programs are the best for them.

The Type and Area of Online Degree

Students considering an online degree must consider the area in which they wish to obtain their degree. As stated on GuideToOnlineSchools.com, "To ensure that you maximize the value of your investments, it is essential to plan ahead and select an area of study that is most pertinent to your interests and lifestyle." For instance, an online degree in computer programming is more likely to be viewed favorably than an online degree in culinary arts. It is also important to consider the level of degree desired (i.e. bachelor's or master's degree).