by Burt Bollinger

Formulating a truly meaningful New Year’s resolution that has both staying power and the ability to transform your life is a difficult task. You’ve decided that the low-carb diet isn’t in your cards, nor is a miles-long morning jog. So, why not go for some mental fitness and exercise instead? In 2004, why not join the growing number of St. Louis professionals who are furthering their education – when and how they want?

“Professionals who come back to school almost always find the experience enlivening and enriching to their life, and to their credentials,” says Bob Wiltenburg, dean of University College in Art & Sciences at Washington University. “It adds to the vitality of their lives. Some find it to be an addictive experience, and they don’t want to stop because they enjoy the process so much.”

With the help of technology, getting an advanced degree from a university has never been easier. In many cases, all a student needs is access to the Internet and a drive to succeed.

The distance learning phenomenon is revolutionizing the way a new breed of student is learning. At many schools, students now have the ability to earn bachelor’s or master’s degrees or certificates online. Giving up a few hours a week at their convenience is enabling today’s professional to reach career heights once considered unattainable.

“When people think of going back to school, they naturally get nervous,” says Wiltenburg. “They might have been away from a classroom for 20 years, and may ask themselves, ‘Can I still do this? Can I fit it into everything else I am doing?’ But in the end, most find it is very possible to balance their continuing education with work, family, or both.”

This is because with today’s online classes, you are not committed to any particular hour or day. You can do your work at the time that suits you best.

“For those who have to travel for their jobs and can’t make a commitment week after week, it’s is an excellent opportunity to complete a course and learn it through a totally online environment,” explains Penny Schafer, director for the Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University.

“We work with numerous professionals who have unpredictable schedules,” says Wiltenburg. “They may be traveling most of this month, then be home for the next month, or they have strong family demands that take up most of their normal evening hours.”

While the delivery of the content is different in online classes, students can still expect the same quality of education and the same degrees that come from a normal classroom setting. And while many classes are offered totally online, including the lectures from professors, many others still offer the student a classroom visit once a week. Classes may meet in person, but the learning continues throughout the week.

“Students can expect to see threaded discussions started by their professor online,” explains Schafer. “The instructor will put out a topic or two, and the student is expected to comment in a significant way – in a way that adds to the discussion and shows that they have given some serious thought to it. Other students are all expected to respond to the instructor, as well as respond to each other,” she adds.

It’s clear that while the course delivery system is designed to be as painless as possible, prospective students should still be prepared for a challenge when it comes to online course work itself.

“These classes are still time-consuming and are certainly not a breeze,” says Schafer. “They are not right for everybody. You do have to be fairly organized and self disciplined. It’s not like your undergraduate days where you can just slink into the back of the classroom. To prove you are there, you have to actively and meaningfully contribute.”

Wiltenburg agrees. “The characteristics for the best students online are the same for the best students generally. People who have real motivation and determination will succeed.”

So, while learning on one’s own time may not be for everyone, for those who are ready for the commitment, the experience gained for the amount of time spent is entirely worth the effort. It’s an alternative to consider, especially if you are looking for a challenging and worthwhile New Year’s resolution – one that gives rewards that will last a lifetime.”

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