A lot of educational institutions have started providing distance learning programs since the pandemic. Universities have adapted to digital learning methods and adjusted their curriculum accordingly. Remote learning programs are more flexible, allowing students to achieve quality education without having to move. Your overall university fee is also reduced as you’re not using multiple facilities including a library, computer labs, etc. and hence don’t have to pay for it. Traveling costs and time are also saved making learning more personalized, comfortable, and accessible.
There are, however a few prerequisites for enrolling into a distance learning program.
Requirements of Enrolling in a Distance Learning Program
Before deciding on enrolling yourself in a distance learning program, make sure you’re ready for it. Distance learning can be very lonesome as you’ll be staying at home all day. Your social interaction will be limited. If you’re someone who is social, remote learning can take a toll on you. Be prepared mentally and emotionally to support yourself.
Secondly, you might need to invest in a good laptop/computer as well as a headset. You will need a separate space in your home where the rest of your family would not be a distraction.
Thirdly and most importantly, you need a good internet. Choosing the right internet is important as the quality of your education will depend on your internet quality. You can select one of the many packages that cater to student needs. Cox Internet for example, apart from offering high speed, has very good customer service. You need to make sure that in case of disruption, your internet provider solves your problem instantly. Cox customer service is 24/7 and offers 4 channels of communication to make sure your concerns are dealt with immediately.
Top Universities for Distance Learning
There are a number of well-known universities within the US that offer remote learning programs for both bachelors and masters level. Our list has been made by using QS world ranking, highlighting the top universities that offer complete remote courses. If you’re looking to apply for a degree and distance learning is your priority, sift through our list and find the best match for yourself.
John Hopkins University
John Hopkins University is ranked #24 in QS World University rankings 2023. John Hopkins is a great university when it comes to student-faculty cooperation. They offer a range of options for remote programs including:
- Medicine
- Social Science
- Computer Sciences
- Engineering
- Business Studies
2. Northwestern University
Northwestern University ranks 32nd in the QS World Ranking 2023. Northwestern University promotes diversity and inclusion promoting a healthy learning environment. There are over a 100 research institutes linked with this university. The number of online learning programs however are limited to Masters in Health sciences only.
3. New York University
New York University is known for its democratic nature when it comes to promoting global ideas and diversity. The institute has been established since 1831. The QS World Ranking 2023 has ranked NYU 39th on the list. Distance learning degrees at NYU include:
- Business and management
- Engineering
- Computer Sciences
4. University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)
Ranking 44th on the QS world ranking 2023, University of California Los Angeles. UCLA promotes tolerance, respect and is a democratic institute working to provide access to information and opportunity. The university is associated with over 290 medical research labs and institutions. Online courses offered at UCLA are unfortunately limited to Engineering degrees.
5. Georgia Institute of Technology
Ranked #88 on the QS World Ranking 2023, Georgia Institute of Technology prides itself for being one of the few universities awarding more Engineering degrees to women than any other institute. Online degrees offered by Georgia Institute of Technology include:
- Engineering
- Sciences
- Computer Sciences
6. University of Texas – Austin
Also offering multiple Engineering degrees, University of Texas is ranked at #72 on Qs World Ranking this year. The university has industry partnerships that provide good exposure to students.
7. Boston University
Boston University is ranked #33 in QS World Ranking list with a systematic online teaching unit offering a variety of graduate programs as well as diplomas and professional certifications. Boston University has been awarded the 21st century best practices U.S Distance Learning Association award and offers online teaching for all courses.
8. The Ohio State University
The Ohio State University is ranked #140 in QS World Ranking 2023. Their online courses include:
- Medicine
- Business Studies
- Education
- Social Sciences
Having been founded in 1870, the Ohio State University prides itself in a long history of research and academic revolution.
Finally
We hope that our list of universities and their courses have covered your areas of interest. If you fulfil the requirements for these universities and are mentally and emotionally ready to take up an online program, you should apply to one now!