How to get the most out of your online graduate school education

Once you’ve asked for advice and decided on an online education, you’re mostly on your own. Learning online is more solo than duet, and it’s perfect for those who may not favor a collaborative environment for education.

If you’re unfamiliar or uncomfortable with computers and basic software, ask an adviser what you’ll need to know to get the most out of your education. Each program is different, but you will likely complete most assignments and communicate with your class through an internet connection. So if you need a refresher course, or even an introductory course for newer software or programs, sign up and get acquainted early.

Before classes even start, consider a rigid schedule for your online education. This means you should set aside several hours at the same time every day and on weekends just for this work. Otherwise, it becomes easy to say, “I’ll get to that after Dr. Who.” Invest in yourself and put your education before other extracurriculars.

Pay attention to dates. This means making sure you attend every online discussion and complete every assignment on time. Again, you won’t have as much face-to-face interaction to remind you to do the work–it’s on you. Additionally, be mindful of dates as they pertain to deadlines for add/drop periods and when your tuition is due. While you may not pass the bursar’s office every day, due dates remain the same and fees can pile up.

Ask about credit you may receive for previous education, work, or military experience. Ask about the types of credits that may transfer, and reach way back in your memory for this one. Have you ever taken Advanced Placement or University in the High School classes? Those many count. You may already be well on your way to a degree because of these life experiences.

If employed, tell your employer about your desire to earn a degree through an online education. It’s a courtesy, but this move may benefit you in other ways. Your employer may have a program to help cover the costs associated with higher education. In addition, you may be considered more closely for an upcoming promotion.

Online education is perfect for those who need flexible schedules. If your personal schedule permits, and if the campus location is feasible for travel, participate in on-campus career and social events as much as possible. Those connections are important not just for networking purposes, but for a healthy social life. On that note, reach out to your professors in a personal manner, and if you’re able, ask if he or she would like to talk about an assignment over coffee.

Befriend as many of your classmates as you feel comfortable, too. These people will often be colleagues in the same industry, if not the same field. And it’s nice to know that you have a few people with whom to discuss and ask questions if necessary.

Set goals for yourself and write them down. Do something to make them tangible. Once you meet one goal, set another. Your pursuit of a degree works best when you push yourself. Online education is like running: it’s an independent act, but it’s most rewarding when completed with others who share the same goal of crossing the graduation finish line.

Welcome to Massive Open Online Courses….

Massive Open Online Courses are new to a lot of people, but chances are, they won’t be new for long. Otherwise known as MOOCS (sounds like something from Battlestar Galactica, right?), these courses are an invitation to a new world of education.

It’s not really a question of whether you should try a MOOC, because really, why not? Many elite universities are now offering MOOCs, so they are a cool way to participate in the greater community. And while MOOCs almost never count toward a degree or license, they do provide an opportunity to try something new–for free. And after a successful completion of a MOOC, some courses will come with a certificate of completion.

MOOCs are an especially good way to explore a topic or career field you are interested in, but not yet committed to pursue. How does History of Rock sound? Or Introduction to Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technologies? In the past, taking exploratory classes would cost you several hundred or thousand dollars. Now, if you want to check a subject out, you can do so with few consequences. Additionally, some MOOCs can provide experience that may count toward a resume booster or promotion at a job.

Here are a few sites to check out if you’re interested for MOOC resources:

Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/

Udacity: https://www.udacity.com/

Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/

Apple’s iTunesU: http://www.apple.com/education/itunes-u/

You will benefit most from a MOOC if you show up (online) and do the work. They take a bit of self-determination and direction, because you won’t be hounded the same way you might if you took a brick-and-mortar class at a university. Of course, you will get out of a MOOC what you put it, so give it your all. You’ll have yourself to thank.

are new to a lot of people, but chances are, they won’t be new for long. Otherwise known as MOOCS (sounds like something from Battlestar Galactica, right?), these courses are an invitation to a new world of education.

Here are a few sites to check out if you’re interested for MOOC resources:

Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/

Udacity: https://www.udacity.com/

Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/

Apple’s iTunesU: http://www.apple.com/education/itunes-u/

How to find the right online program for you

Online graduate programs are often best suited for non-traditional students (what a compliment, to be considered non-traditional and different from the pack!). This means you might work full-time or have a complicated schedule because you are a caregiver to a relative. Or, you might be an independent learner who thrives best when simply left alone. Online programs allow flexibility in education where life cannot. So if you’re someone who expects to travel for work constantly, you would benefit from the ability to complete coursework and assignments on your schedule and at your own pace.

Online programs are on the rise and it doesn’t seem the trend will shift anytime soon. According to a report by the Babson Survey Research Group, the number of fully-online programs jumped from 34.5 percent in 2002 to 62.4 in 2012. What does this mean for you? More, and better, choices.

Best Online Graduate Programs

The best online graduate program for you will meet your needs. Consider what you want most and look for a program that meets all of those requirements. There are different kinds of online graduate programs. Some traditional brick and mortar universities offer fully online programs. Others offer only a percentage of classes online, with some requirements for in-person classroom learning. Still, other programs exist fully online, without an affiliation to the traditional university.

You should always aim for programs that offer an accredited degree. This will weed out most “degree mills,” as they’ve come to be known. Next, consider the home base of the online graduate program. This location can be key because if you’re within driving distance, even a longer commute than you would desire, you can attend seminars, gatherings and social events. If you need a meeting with your professor or adviser, it’s possible if you can physically get there. Otherwise, you will have to rely on Skype and other electronic communication, which can be very effective, but sometimes not as personal.

Some programs have residency requirements, which can be extensive, limited, or none at all. Again, residency requirements–or the degree to which you are expected to be physically at the brick and mortar classroom–are up to you.

Communication is Key

Look for an online graduate program that is established (as much as online programs can be with their infancy) and well-respected. Additionally, try to get a feel for the professorial style and who will be your mentor and/or adviser. If possible, find someone with whom you click; you will likely be in somewhat constant contact with this person. Ask how classmates interact and communicate. Many programs have different styles. Some may use online message boards, others email threads, others group video chats. Ask to check these out and make sure that the setup works for you; if it is ineffective or confusing, that could make your work more tedious.

An online graduate program is a mostly solo venture, so make sure you know what you want and seek out a program that meets your needs.

Graduate School- Choices, Choices.

Around this time every year, the meticulous potential graduate student is faced with the difficult task of choosing from several top choice grad programs. Yes, it’s a decision of privilege, but it’s still a burdensome situation. Some of the most difficult decisions in life are between two solid and equal options. While this is a stressful position, it is a fortunate predicament to have to choose between great and great. So, before you begin the hair-splitting, first be grateful.

If you’ve been accepted to more than one graduate program, first consider whether either has an academic edge. Perhaps one program recently received a major grant, so they expect to fund more research. Or, maybe one program recently announced a visiting professor that happens to be both your inspiration and someone who could play a key role in your education. A program is not just a program. The heartbeat and personality of a program is created by the professors. So try not to look at the each program in black and white terms, and instead learn more about each professor. Odds are, someone who teaches, visits or speaks is someone you admire–a person with published work you have devoured or recommended. So don’t just look at it as the education you will receive, but the people you will meet. When weighing your options, these more microscopic academic differences should be the first comparison.

Next a hard look at the financial packages. Give special consideration to the offer that most suits your financial needs as a graduate student. If offers are similar, look for opportunities for graduate or teaching assistantships.

Consider location. The connections you make in graduate school are some of the connections you carry with you, in some cases, for the next decade. Those connections are usually in the city location of your graduate school. You also might find a job in this city after graduation. Could you see yourself settling down wherever your graduate program is located? If several programs are equal in academics and financial offer, consider the location and gravitate where you feel most comfortable, in addition to most challenged or inspired.

Holistically, which university has more to offer you? When you enroll in a graduate program, you become part of the greater university’s community. Use your metaphoric wide angle and macro lenses. Zoom into the different program specializations while also looking for ways the university’s other programs can benefit you. Business students who want to focus on the global economy would be wise to consider a program that also boasts a strong international relations program. That can help you fine-tune your expertise through panel discussions and other similar events.

Do you see any patterns with alumni for each of the programs? Look for the program that produces alumni you respect and admire. One business program may produce more entrepreneurs, while another seems to funnel grads toward corporate jobs.

Remember, having to choose between several stellar programs is a good problem to have. Treat it as a learning opportunity.

You applied, you were accepted… but you don’t want to go to graduate school

Students apply to graduate school for a wide spectrum of reasons. Most want to advance their career in some way and look to grad school to meet a minimum requirement. For some, though, the acceptance envelope doesn’t bring excitement and anticipation–it brings anxiety and uncertainty.

It’s okay to think about graduate school. The beauty of applying and receiving an admittance letter is that you can pause and think. Most programs will allow you to defer your acceptance for one year; some will allow a longer period. This time is valuable because, if you’re uncertain, it’s long enough to sort through your career aspirations. You can ask yourself whether the additional education and time (and cost) is necessary and worth it for you. You can take the year to gain more employment and career experience, which will only serve to make graduate school a more enriching experience. The more you know going in, the more you’re likely to take away from grad school.

As is the case with many aspects of graduate school, you have to ask yourself whether you want to pause because of academic burnout. If you have had your intellectual engines running full speed for four years, another few years of intensive study may be too much. For many students, a change of pace is the perfect treatment for burnout. And by the time the decision comes to enter the program, students are refreshed and ready to give it their all.

Some students decide to wait a year to give their bank accounts a rest–or boost. It’s no secret that grad school can be pricey. Of course, it doesn’t have to be. Consider state school programs and apply early and often for scholarships and teaching assistantships. As an aside, you should be aware that if you were granted a favorable financial aid or scholarship package, the offer may not be guaranteed when you decide to attend the program after a deferment.

As always, honesty is the best policy, especially with yourself, and especially when it comes to graduate school.

Graduateprograms.com Announces Best Education Grad Programs for Social Life

Teachers spend long hours in the classroom during graduate school. So when a program can offer students a healthy social life, they deserve recognition.

To that end, Graduateprograms.com, the online guide to graduate schools for future graduate students, has released a new set of student-based rankings that highlights the best education programs for social life. The rankings are based solely on surveys submitted by 4,900 students representing more than 550 accredited education programs across the United States between Sept. 1, 2012 and April 1, 2013.

1.) University of Kansas (9.83stars)
2.) University of California-Berkeley (9.5 stars)
3.) University of South Carolina at Columbia (9.43 stars)
4.) University of Miami (9.125 stars)
5.) Vanderbilt University (8.875 stars)
6.) Harvard University (8.75 stars)
7.) Boston University (8.67 stars)
Stanford University (8.67 stars)
8.) Iowa State University (8.50 stars)
9.) Texas A & M University-Commerce (8.38 stars)
10.) Michigan State University (8.33 stars)
Florida State University (8.33)

In addition to posting a review, students often shared their thoughts and feelings regarding their respective programs. One Class of 2014 University of South Carolina at Columbia student wrote: “The 5th Year Masters Degree program at USC is a great way for students to earn their degree and certification in a timely manner. This also boosts the average pay scale by nearly 6,000 dollars/year. The faculty is very supportive and the University is top-notch. The education along with a great atmosphere, diverse student body and wonderful athletic venues makes South Carolina the place to be for school in today’s society.”

Please visit http://www.graduateprograms.com for the full rankings of Top 25 Education Grad Programs in the country. Additionally, students may continue to review their programs and qualify to win a $1,000 scholarship, awarded once per semester. Reviews will be incorporated into upcoming program rankings.

METHODOLOGY

Graduateprograms.com reaches current and recent graduate students through scholarship entries as well as social media platforms. All business school rankings cover a period from September 1, 2012 to April 1, 2013. Graduateprograms.com assigns 15 ranking categories to each graduate program at each graduate school. Rankings cover a variety of student topics, such as academic competitiveness, career support, financial aid, and quality of network.

For a given graduate program, rankings are determined by calculating the average score for each program based on the 15 ranking categories. These scores are then compared across all ranked schools for that program and are translated into a final ranking for that graduate program, i.e., business and management. A given graduate program is not ranked until a minimum threshold of graduate student surveys is completed for that graduate program.

Grad school rejection is the worst kind of unrequited love.

Grad school rejection is the worst kind of unrequited love. Well, not quite, but it certainly does sting.

Plenty of qualified candidates are rejected every year. This is because admission and rejection is not as black and white as applicants think. It’s a complex equation that includes factors unknown to students.

It’s important that you, future graduate student, create a plan. Contact the admissions department and ask for the counselors to outline your particular application’s areas of weakness. It might be difficult to admit to yourself that you might have fallen short, but the knowledge will only make you–and your future application–stronger.

Some rejected students ultimately decide against graduate school, but many cannot simply write off a terminal degree because it’s essential to their career success. Strongly consider taking one year off. There are two reasons for this time frame. The first is that many programs allow part-time study and rolling admissions, but many others do not. So the next time up to bat may be one year later. The second reason is that one year will allow you to raise both your grade point average and your Graduate Record Exam score, both great ways to increase your chances of admission next time. If you do decide to take a year off before applying for graduate school again, consider another internship.

Continue to network within your career field and outside. Go to events and talk to current graduate students and those who have graduated and successfully landed jobs they value. There are other smaller tasks to complete, too, like ensuring your LinkedIn profile is filled out completely.

It’s often said that the test of character is how a person reacts in difficult situations. Take rejection not as a reflection of your lacking intelligence or abilities, but as a learning opportunity. This perspective will get you a lot farther than any other approach.

A waitlist letter can feel worse than a rejection.

It’s not quite something to celebrate, not quite something to commiserate. But everyone knows that spring is the time of year for admissions letters ( ! ) and rejection letters. Here’s how to handle a waitlist letter like a pro.

The first conversation you need to have is with yourself. If you’re waitlisted from your top choice, or even top choices, know that all is not lost. Admissions departments purposely waitlist students to ensure full classes. And the reason the system works (at least most of the time) is because a bunch of students will decide to attend another school, or to put graduate school on hold for another year, or even indefinitely. These slots will be freed up for people like you.

Next, tell your closest family members and friends, because these people have supported your decision to go to graduate school. And in their effort to continue supporting you, they will inevitably ask you whether you received notice from your top programs. This can create and awkward situation if you don’t beat them to the punch about being waitlisted. Just say, “I heard back from my top program and I was waitlisted. I’m a little disappointed I wasn’t accepted outright, but there’s a good chance I’ll be admitted once the school has a better idea of their class size. I’ll let you know as soon as I know. Thanks for your support!”

Next, contact the admissions department of your school and ask if there’s anything to do to better your chances. If you’ve had any “news,” like awards or honors, be sure to mention it. Of course, be respectful and sincere on the telephone or in the email to the department. Don’t beg and don’t brag. Admissions departments are still looking for well-rounded candidates, after all.

Finally, keep yourself busy. Continue to work toward your career aspirations by joining a pertinent organization (like the Society of Professional Journalists or the National Association of Social Workers). Continue to network and look for opportunities for your career. That way, when you reach out to your programs of choice–or when they reach out to you–you’ll have a few more check marks to reflect positively on you.

How to Pass Time Before You’re Accepted

Time may feel like it’s moving like molasses when you’re waiting for a very important envelope. Or, maybe an email. Whatever the vehicle, it can feel pretty painful.

Fortunately, there are productive ways to pass the time without making yourself a bundle of nerves. The best ideas are ones that are tied to your own mental well-being or your career aspirations. Consider finding a way to exercise early in the morning to clear your head for the day (before you roll your eyes, try it for a week!). Read. A lot. Read for pleasure, and read material pertinent to your studies and career.

Some people play mental games with themselves during the most difficult moments before an acceptance letter arrives. Some might “convince” themselves that they didn’t get in, prepare for the worst–a plan B–and use this preservation method to get through the anxiety. That might feel weird for some people, but the root isn’t. Don’t think about the incoming letter. This means laying off Facebook and texting if the information shared between your friends is about graduate school and acceptance letters. You don’t need someone else’s good fortune to discourage you while you’re waiting for your own.

Finally, find a way to become more involved in your career of choice. This is important. If you want to be an engineer, join a trade association or club. If you’re working to become a social worker, sign up for a weekend workshop. Why is this an important step? It shows your deep interest and personal investment in your future, and if, by some chance you’re waitlisted, these steps will be big plusses on your side.

Graduateprograms.com Announces Top Student Rated Social Work Programs for Diversity, Faculty Accessibility, and Transportation

Let’s call it like it is: sometimes, social work students have it rough. They have long commutes to challenging placements, all to prepare for life after graduation. But, some programs are better than others in the areas most important to social work students.

Coinciding with Social Work Month, Graduate Programs, the online guide to graduate schools for prospective graduate students, today released its rankings of the Top Social Work Programs for Diversity, Faculty Accessibility, and Transportation, according to student ratings and reviews posted on Graduateprograms.com. The rankings are based solely on surveys of current and recent grad students and use a 10 star system (with 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest). Verbatim answers were posted on the site from more than 1,500 students representing over 130 accredited social work programs across the United States.

The Top Social Work Programs for Diversity in the United States, according to graduateprograms.com ratings and reviews are:

1.)    Michigan State University (10 stars)
2.)    University of Louisville (9.75 stars)
3.)    Case Western Reserve University (9 stars)
University of Southern California (9 stars)
University of Wisconsin-Madison (9 stars)

The Top Social Work Programs for Faculty Accessibility are:

1.)    University of Louisville (10 stars)
Boston University (10 stars)
2.)    University of Southern California (9.75 stars)
3.)    New York University (9.5 stars)
Michigan State University (9.5 stars)
University of Wisconsin-Madison (9.5 stars)
Fordham University (9.5 stars)

The Top Social Work Programs for Transportation are:
1.)    New York University (10 stars)
2.)    University of Louisville (9.5 stars)
Michigan State University (9.5 stars)
University at Albany (SUNY) (9.5 stars)
3.)    Loyola University Chicago (9.3 stars)
Virginia Commonwealth University (9.3 stars)

Many students posted comments in addition to their review. A Class of 2016 University of Louisville student commented about the first year of the school’s online graduate social work program, “This is the first year for the Kent School of Social Work to offer their basic masters program online. So far it has been enjoyable and challenging at the same time. Even though I don’t have the benefit of face to face contact with my instructors, they have been very willing to find other means of contact and have created good lessons over the internet. I would recommend this program to anyone who has a busy schedule or is miles away from the campus or is an independent learner.”

Students may continue to review their programs at http://www.graduateprograms.com and qualify to win a $1,000 scholarship, awarded once per semester. Reviews will be incorporated into upcoming program rankings.

METHODOLOGY
Graduateprograms.com reaches current and recent graduate students through scholarship entries as well as social media platforms. All business school rankings cover a period from September 1, 2012 to March 1, 2013. Graduateprograms.com assigns 15 ranking categories to each graduate program at each graduate school. Rankings cover a variety of student topics, such as academic competitiveness, career support, financial aid, and quality of network.