Here are 5 Benefits of Studying Accounting Online. Online education has become very popular in recent years, and there are many benefits to studying accounting online. Online education, also known as distance learning, provides students with the opportunity to continue to work and meet other obligations and still earn an online degree in their chosen field. While it may have taken a while for students and academic institutions to fully grasp the idea of online education, it’s now become a popular form of study. Because of the benefits offered by online education, more students are able to earn degrees than ever before. Here are 5 benefits of studying accounting online.
Benefits of Studying Accounting Online
- Flexibility
- Cost
- Enhance Computer Skills
- Better Support
- More Class Participation
Flexibility
One of the main reasons people choose to not go to college is because they just can’t seem to fit it into their already busy schedules. Online education allows students to log into the school site at their convenience rather than in person daily. Whether it’s to hand in an assignment or take a test, most of the online curriculum can be completed at the student’s convenience. Accounting is a program that requires a lot of time, study and commitment. With the flexibility offered through online programs, students can complete it all while still having a life outside of school.
Related Resource: Top 25 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Accounting Online
Cost
Cost is always a factor for students contemplating college, whether they’re attending online or on campus. Some degree programs charge a flat rate for the entire program, but others charge a cost-per-credit plus additional fees. Factor in travel and lodging and the cost of a degree can add up very quickly. For the most part, online college courses are less expensive not just because travel and lodging are eliminated but also because the colleges are charging less. U.S. News & World Report states that, although some well-established schools may charge the same, many newer online schools and public colleges are charging much less.
Enhance Computer Skills
As an accountant, students will spend a lot of time on the computer, whether they’re creating financial documents, preparing taxes or just crunching numbers. Because of the various types of accounting and bookkeeping software they’ll be using on a daily basis, accountants should have good computer skills. Students who are studying accounting online have more time to spend honing up on their computer skills, which can be beneficial towards earning the online degree.
Better Support
Online accounting students often find they receive better support in an online class and more support when it’s really needed. As an on-campus student, support from the instructors is often limited to during the class. If a student needs help after hours, the student often finds the instructor in another class or just unavailable. By the time the student is able to actually connect with the instructor, it’s often too late. Online instructors often offer 24/7 support through chats, messaging on emails. Even if the instructor isn’t available, the student can post a question on a student board and receive answers from fellow students.
More Class Participation
Many students do not fully understand the importance of class participation. The more students contribute to a class discussion, the easier it is for students to enjoy and learn. Some students in an on-campus program are shy or withdrawn and just uncomfortable communicating with strangers. Students in an online degree program generally have lower inhibitions and feel freer to communicate and add to discussions. More class participation is usually always a good thing in a learning environment.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants are predicted to see a 10% increase in job growth from 2016-2026. As of May 2017, accountants earned an average annual wage of $77,920. With good wages and positive job growth, accounting is an in-demand field, and a major benefit of studying accounting online is that candidates are able to jumpstart their careers quicker, cheaper and when they’re ready.
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