Is Online Learning Right for Me?

Student at home doing coursework embed, representing online learning at Tulane SoPA

Have you been thinking about earning a degree but are concerned how it will fit into your busy schedule? The Tulane School of Professional Advancement is designed to facilitate graduate and undergraduate education for working adults, including online master's programs and individual online courses for both bachelor's and master's students. Before enrolling in this type of program, however, think about whether online learning is the right choice for you.

Considerations for Online Students

Certain qualities increase your chances of success when taking an online class, including the following:

  • Comfort with reading, communicating, sharing information, and interacting in an online environment
  • Intermediate computer skills, including familiarity with word processing applications and the ability to perform file management tasks (like copying, moving, renaming, and deleting files or folders)
  • Sufficient writing ability to effectively develop and share ideas in an online forum
  • Self-motivation to review materials, complete assignments on time, participate in online discussions, and keep up with the reading and coursework

If you thrive while working independently, online learning has the potential to fit your lifestyle. You'll also have the opportunity to engage with a wide variety of students since diversity tends to increase in online courses and those populated by adult learners. In fact, some online students say they interact with their peers even more than they would in a classroom setting. Online graduate courses include real time webinar sessions—to provide additional opportunities to engage with your instructor and fellow classmates.

Advantages of Online Learning

Students will find that Tulane SoPA offers a range of career-focused online courses and programs. A selection of our master's degree programs can be completed entirely online, while other bachelor's and master's programs can be completed partially online in conjunction with on-the-ground learning.

Learn more about the following master's programs available entirely online:

MS in Information Technology Management
MPS in Homeland Security Studies
MPS in Emergency Management
MS in Cybersecurity Management

Online courses offer many cost-saving benefits to students as well, including eliminating the expense of commuting to classes. In some cases, course materials are provided for free or at a lower cost than traditional textbooks.

Of course, convenience and flexibility are the primary drivers for many students interested in online learning. With the ability to set your own schedule, you can improve your work-life balance, care for your family, and continue in your career while earning a degree.

Even if you're not a computer whiz, online courses are a great way to improve your technical skills. You'll be creating presentations, engaging in video chats, and uploading files and documents—all important skills in the workplace and beyond.

When to Think Twice

If you prefer the face-to-face interaction of a classroom setting, a program taught completely online might not be the right fit. However, taking an online class or two each semester allows you to incorporate the flexibility of online learning without sacrificing the benefits of traditional classroom learning.

If you are interested in enrolling in online learning through Tulane SoPA, you can explore our tuition and fees, review the application materials, and delve into our degree programs.