Misconceptions can put off many people who have never tried online learning. They may believe that online learning doesn’t come with the same guidance as you would expect from an ‘on-campus’ degree. However, this isn’t always the case. Many reputable universities that deliver online learning have an excellent support structure in place for their students.

In-person support

Even if you’re studying online, you will often be able to speak to someone in person if necessary. Depending on the university, you will be able to speak to someone in person before you enroll, whether in person or by phone. An initial face-to-face talk can feel more personal for some people, even if their studies will be online.

Passan Hall in Wilkes University even offers enrolled students access to some medical services.

Speak to an admissions counselor

You can also book an appointment to speak to an admissions counselor online about the course you’re considering. They can talk through your options, help you understand your course accreditation, guide you towards the right qualifications (which may differ from the ones you initially considered), and make suggestions about any worries or problems you foresee. By the time you’ve signed up and started studying, you will be better prepared for the work involved and how you might deal with potential problems related to your studies.

Your own student advisor

Your student advisor will be easily contactable if you need advice about your degree or struggle to keep up with your coursework. It’s a much better option to contact them as soon as possible, instead of waiting until catching up becomes so overwhelming that you drop out. They may be able to help you catch up and come up with a suitable study plan so that it doesn’t become a problem again.

A work placement

Many qualifications will involve a work placement, so you will have access to support and advice from those you work with, whether they are other students or fully qualified professionals. They will either be going through something similar or have been where you are now and can offer you advice and encouragement to don’t feel isolated.

Support from other students

Even if you’re studying online, without the support of other students in person, you may be able to join online support groups. If there are none, you could ask the university about starting one. Just make sure that you don’t spend too much time procrastinating and straying from your course subjects, or it could cut into your study time. If used right, an online support group can be a place to get to know other students and keep each other motivated and can be something you dip in and out of as needed, rather than constantly posting messages in. If you’ve previously been put off by online learning because you’re concerned about how much support you’ll receive, you may be surprised. Many online students have access to support and guidance to help them gain their qualifications.