Studying online may suit you if you value flexibility and convenience, want to study on your own schedule, or prefer the freedom to study from wherever you happen to be. These benefits connect: flexibility is the overall idea, while schedule and location are practical parts of it. Consider which matter most to you.

Why consider studying online?

The main reasons to consider an online program are the way it can shape when and where you study. Rather than focusing only on the word “online,” think about whether the arrangement matches what you want from studying.

• Flexibility: Consider whether having more choice in your study arrangements appeals to you.
• Your own schedule: Think about whether being able to study on your own schedule is important.
• Location: Ask whether the freedom to study from wherever you happen to be would suit you.
• Convenience: Decide whether this way of studying feels practical for your needs.

How do flexibility, schedule and location fit together?

These ideas are related, but they describe different parts of the decision. Flexibility is the broad benefit. Choosing your own study schedule and being able to study from wherever you are are examples of how that flexibility may matter in practice. Convenience is your judgement of whether the arrangement works for you.

Online study connects these parts:

• Flexibility is the overall idea.
• Schedule is when you study.
• Location is where you study.
• Convenience is how well the arrangement suits you.

Is studying online right for you?

Start with what you want from your study routine. Would you value studying on your own schedule? Is being able to study from wherever you happen to be important to you? Does the flexibility feel convenient for your situation?

If these are priorities, an online program may be worth considering. If they are not, the benefits may matter less to you. Use your answers to decide whether the way an online program is arranged matches what you want from studying.