The number of immigrants pursuing college degrees in the United States is growing. Research by the Public Policy Institute of California published on June 2008 says 28 percent of U.S. immigrants hold bachelor's degrees, compared to 29 percent of native-born U.S. citizens who have degrees. Online courses are viable options for immigrants who want to earn college degrees. Before enrolling in classes, though, they must weigh the pros and cons of taking online courses.
Program Choices
Online degree programs provide numerous options for students---associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees. These degrees cover a number of professional fields, like education, business, nursing, psychology, computer technology and social sciences. An immigrant who is working can chose the degree that fits their career path or work toward a degree that will help in their current field. Many of these programs are accredited by higher education organizations like The Higher Learning Commission, meaning that you most of your credits will transfer to traditional colleges.
Convenience and Flexibility
Online courses allow students to create their own study schedules without sacrificing jobs and family obligations. You don't have to worry about rushing home after work, taking care of your home and leaving to take classes at a community college or university. Nor do you have to sacrifice keeping a job and taking care of your financial obligations to take day classes. You can carve out an hour or two, at least four times a week, to finish course work. Immigrants still getting a grasp of English don't have to feel the pressure of keeping up with the pace of a classroom lecture.
Inexpensive
Online courses are not as expensive as taking courses at a university. You also save on the transportation costs involved in getting to and from campus, parking, housing and meal plans. These expenses increase college tuition by thousands of dollars. Some employers offer tuition reimbursements or pay for books for online education courses if they relate to your current job.
Student Interaction
Taking online courses is a solitary way to pursue education and immigrants who are still struggling with the English language do not have to face the embarrassment of inability to articulate their thoughts. The advantage of attending a lecture in a traditional college classroom is the interaction with other students. Students form study groups and campuses provide free peer tutoring and English as a Second Language classes. Working with other students could help immigrant students get concepts that can be lost in translation.
Office Hours
Online courses don't provide the face-to-face contact with college professors. An auditory learner works better when they can see and hear their professor. Immigrant students often do well in classes in which they can hear how words sound as opposed to just seeing words in written form. College professors have office hours during which they can give students personalized attention. College professors sometimes form study groups before major exams that helps students understand concepts discussed in lecture. Online courses do not offer the same amenities to immigrant students.
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