by Donna M. Houston

Created on: August 21, 2008   Last Updated: August 22, 2008

Distance Education: How an online course can improve your career

Job security. Now there's a contradictory coupling of words. Do you feel secure in your job today? On the contrary, if you're like most of us you are keenly aware of just how corporately dispensable you are. In times like these you can't afford to take your ability to earn a living for granted. A good way to fight the odds and improve your chances for career longevity is to continue your education after you've graduated. From the mailroom to the boardroom you can demonstrate your commitment to succeed by keeping abreast of industry developments and related technologies.

The question for the employed individual is often: Where can I find the time? Faced with a forty-plus-hour work week as well as family and other commitments, following a traditional class schedule can prove next to impossible. Distance learning is the perfect solution. Since the classroom is in cyber-space time and location are of little importance. You set the schedule and work when and where you can.

Not too computer savvy? No worries! Take a computer class geared to your level of proficiency and work your way up. In no time at all you'll be armed with the technological tools you need to get ahead. Or choose a business-related course that compliments specific job requirements within your field. Taking even one work-related online class will further your career goals. The more you know the farther you can go.

While costs vary depending on the number of classes you take and the type of program you enroll in, i.e. Degree, Certificate, etc, you can save upwards of fifty percent of the total expanse by opting to go online to continue your education. The true savings are realized not just in tuition costs, but gas and time expenditures as well.

A good starting place is $0. A Google search for free online university classes' produced over ten million links. Get your feet wet by taking advantage of one of the open courseware classes offered at any number of prestigious colleges and universities. MIT, Tufts University, John Hopkins University all have free, non-credit curriculum on a variety of subjects. Check out web addresses: www.free-ed.net, and www.about.com: distance learning, for some valuable information and guidance.

In a competitive job market carrying on your education is a winning proposition. Take steps to stand out in a stagnant workforce by going the extra mile. Prove your worth to present and prospective employers by continuing to learn, by doing what it takes to remain relevant in your profession. You've already landed the job, now show your boss why you should keep it. Even non-credit courses can have real-world applications in the workplace.

And if the payoff doesn't come corporately, the knowledge and expertise you gain could set the stage for an entrepreneurial venture. It never hurts to have a "Plan B".

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