According to a recent article in US News, experts say that women are more attracted to online pursuit of higher education and the number one reason is because of the kinds of degrees they are studying for. While there are a number of reasons why more women prefer to study online than in a more traditional classroom setting, the types of degrees they pursue does impact their choice.
Also, although it is no longer possible to stereotype some professions as being ‘female’ occupations, nursing is one in which the number of women nurses greatly outweighs the number of males in the profession. Now many universities offer online nursing programs so that is one course of study that is more highly populated by women and over time, even more women are catching the ‘cyber study’ bug.
Flexibility is a key issue
Many women who seek an online degree program, whether it is an undergrad degree or a graduate degree, look for the flexibility studying online provides. A great number of women already work full-time jobs and juggle a family as well. There is no way to determine in advance when the kids will be sick, demanding more of your time or when your job needs you to stay overtime. What about those times the babysitter can’t make it and hubby is away on business? Studying online offers the flexibility needed to simply change the time or the day that you choose to study a specific chapter or a concept that you need to internalize.
A chance to have a family earlier in life
Another of the ‘big issues’ with women is the fact that registering in an online RN program enables them to have children younger while their biological clocks are still keeping time. In the past there was a huge push to wait until the young couple established themselves financially, finished their education and were solidly at work in a job with a career. With the dawning of online education women can have their children younger, in their mid-twenties when they are not only at the height of fertility but young enough to run after those little bundles of energy which comes harder with age. Even a decade makes a huge difference.
Cost is a key factor
Finally, the costs associated with a course of study such as an online RN program are much less than they would be studying on campus in a traditional classroom setting. Perhaps at this point in time both online and campus classes cost the same per credit hour but the addition of an online curriculum has enabled most universities to keep costs lower across the board. Consider the fact that even lecture halls have finite seating but an online course can handle virtually unlimited enrollment. But when speaking of cost, women think in terms of what it costs to travel back and forth to class, an acceptable wardrobe and all the little ‘extras’ that are a necessary component when factoring what it costs to attend university.
These are just the top three reasons why some women are opting for online college. There is a growing trend to study online with numbers that indicate that more women are studying online than men and the number of women opting for cyber study will just continue to grow.
Have you ever taken an online course or degree? What did you think?
Susan Mary Malone says
This is a great overview of what online courses will do for you. I’m actually thinking of taking one now, if not an entire degree, and this truly helps me sort through. Thank You!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
I think I am going to do a few courses, as well!
maria @closetohome says
I think we are so busy and having online college is a great way to get an advanced degree as a new mom or single parent. This is such a great resource.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
So true! Thought not a “new” mom, I cannot imagine having the time to get out of the house to go to class!
Tammileetips says
It is so hard to be a mom and go to school! I love that classes online are opening up the classes to more women then before.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
Yes!
Clara says
Taking classes online is really the most convenient way to do it. You save so much time when you don’t have to drive.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
I love college… but as a parent, I just don’t think I could get to a campus setting!
Nancy @ whispered inspirations says
I think its a great option that you can take advantage of especially when travelling to a campus is not an option some days.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
It really is!
Crystal says
I went to a traditional college, but got my teaching credential online. It was a great program and flexible enough to fit my schedule. Online is the only way I’d consider continuing my education.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
I went to traditional as well.. but I am totally with you. The only way I could further my degree would be on line!
OurFamilyWorld says
I’m already a mom and it so hard for me to go in school. I would love to take an online college
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
I hope to get my masters online someday!
Bethanny Sudibyo says
I love how our technology has developed so much that we have the chance to learn through the internet. All the things you said are true, sometimes it’s not possible to get a face-to-face education. Getting an education online doesn’t mean it is worth less.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
Absolutely!
Valerie Robinson says
I actually completed my masters program online. It was the only way with raising kids and working full time. Worked for me!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
That is amazing!!! I am hoping to do the same thing!
Elizabeth O says
There are so many ways to get an education these days and that is terrific news for busy moms. My only advice is that we do our homework thoroughly before signing up for an online course. All online programs are not created equally.
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
So true… sadly, not all colleges are, either 🙁
CourtneyLynne says
I finished school online!!! I honestly liked online school better than in person. Then again I now own my own business so I just like the whole I’m in charge of my schedule thing!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide says
I love that! Be the boss!!! It is SO nice to have more options to learn and schedule as you need.
Atalia Felicia says
It’s so great to see the enthusiasm for online learning here.
I help online students overcome challenges to reach their graduation and serve. I connected to Chelley and she will do my book review soon. She mentioned by early next year.
In the meantime, you can get it now at a discounted price. More info at https://www.facebook.com/events/339629296397668/
It’s a big step and If you’d like a to ask questions on how to do it properly, simply email info@Onlinelearningmastery.com. I’ll be happy to help you level up in life 🙂
Best,
Atalia