8 Thoughts That Everyone Considering Returning To Uni Online Has — And What The Reality Is Actually Like

"Is an online degree a real degree?"

Keen to jump back into uni, but unsure about taking the online route? Here are eight relatable thoughts that everyone considering uni online has — and a reality check from someone who's done it.

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1. "Can I handle the online study life?" — It's true, the rigours of an IRL classroom setting can be needed for those of us who lack discipline. Attending classes in a flexible online setting may be a slippery slope into not attending at all. Right?

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Wrong! For the most part, anyone choosing to return to uni is doing so because they have a passion for what they're studying. Whether it's up-skilling or completely changing careers, most people who embark on a second degree aren't doing so lightly, but because they're keen and motivated in their area of interest. When you have the passion, the discipline comes naturally. Trust me on this one!

2. "Will I miss out on the 'real' uni experience?" — Another common concern amongst those considering online study is the lack of community. Connecting with like-minded people, building professional networks and even just plain socialising surely can't be achieved in an online environment, right?

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Wrong again, my uncertain friend! If anything, your opportunities for networking become greater when studying online. But, for those unconvinced, why not try a multimodal course? Professional networks are important for most jobs, but especially for social workers, who need to have a wide array contacts they can draw upon for their expertise. 

ACU's Master of Social Work is a multimodal course wherein your study is largely online with a practical component, so you can learn from your own real-time experiences on the ground. Get the best of both worlds by flexibly networking online with people across Australia, as well as building connections face-to-face! 

3. "Does it count as a real degree if you do it online?" — Another common concern with online uni courses is whether the qualification is regarded as highly as a 'bricks and mortar' degree. From someone who once shared this concern, I can tell you the answer is absolutely yes.

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I was pleasantly surprised to learn that online degrees receive the same professional recognition as a degree earned sitting in a classroom. 

ACU's education courses, including a Bachelor of Education, a Master of Teaching (Childhood and Primary) and a Master of Teaching (Secondary) are fully recognised and accredited by Australia's industry teaching body for work as a teacher right across the country. The only difference is you can do it from your couch. Slay.

4. "What if I want to remain employed while I study online? Won't my uni schedule clash with my working hours?" — Actually, your uni schedule will be the most flexible it's ever been. Forget awkwardly-timed lectures, the only time you need to watch a lecture is entirely your own. Welcome to the future, pal.

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Online uni course providers come with the perspective that most people juggle study with work and personal commitments. When studying online, there are no set lectures or tutorials, meaning you can do the study at hours that work for you. Remember in your undergrad when you rushed around campus in back-to-back lectures? Never again will you enter a lecture theatre five minutes late and stress-sweating. There's a better way!

5. "What if I struggle to use the tech?" — It's highly unlikely! Online learning as a concept is not new and educational institutions have had plenty of time to trial and test their online platforms into the most user-friendly version possible.

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POV: You, having the most engaging online learning experience to-date. ACU's online platform is known for being easy to navigate and well-structured into weekly content and tasks.  Even if you are interested in pursuing a hands-on course like the Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing, you have choices with ACU offering an online study option for this course using their fit-for-purpose learning platform. It's giving convenience. 

6. "What if I need help with my studies?" — Personally, I was very surprised by how available and helpful my online lecturers were. They know returning to study after time away can be daunting, and they also know most people juggle it with other priorities. For this reason, they tend to be available via email, phone and video call to help you when you need it, even outside of regular business hours.

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Honestly, the amount of times I've emailed my lecturers in a panic only to have them respond within minutes offering to jump on a call would shock you. In my experience, my online lecturers were far more accessible and helpful than my in-person lecturers ever were. One of the benefits of online study is truly being part of an all-hours community. For example, at ACU Online, academic staff are specifically trained in online facilitating and teaching. You also have access to Student Success Coaches who are dedicated to assisting you achieve your individual study goals.

7. "Will the education quality be the same as in-person?" — Yes! In fact, I think it's better. The world of online study means students are always doing things at different times, which requires your lecturers to be hyper-organised. Not only are they field experts, but they prepare weeks of work in advance for you to learn at your own pace. For me, this created a far better learning experience than traditional degrees.

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ACU's Master of Business Administration is the perfect example of a course run by leading field experts with the flexibility of online study options baked in. The quality of online education has never been higher in Australia, so it's time to stop second-guessing and start applying!

8. And finally: "Wow, I better visit ACU Online!" — Why yes, yes you should. Applications for 2023 are open now.

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You can thank me later. I'll wait. 

What are you waiting for? If you're ready to take the leap, head to ACU Online to check out the courses they have on offer and begin your online study journey.