Are there academic advisors for online education students?

There exists misconceptions about what happens when an individual decides to pursue an online education. In the minds of many, those pursuing their degrees online are leading a solitary existence, devoid of human contact. These students remain hidden away with their computers, left to fend for themselves. When they have questions or concerns they must rely on some computer-generated response...

Is this really the case? Are online students really left to their own devices at all times? Or – are there actual people somewhere out there to help?

Contrary to popular belief, online schools are NOT simply electronic sources meant to generate diplomas – there are real people and real work involved. Online schools are not simply computers sending automated responses to questions! There are people behind the websites, working to help students succeed. They are just doing so in the online realm!

So, what does this mean for those who are first starting out in their pursuit for online degrees? If there are people there to answer questions about the college or university itself – does that mean that there are also advisors there to help students choose their courses?

In most cases, this answer is yes. Although choosing courses may seem to be a simple task at first, it can actually be an overwhelming venture. Even though the course options for an online degree program are often clearly listed on the schools website, figuring out the order in which to take them can be confusing, at best. Students often hesitate when it comes to classes that offer alternatives. Which course would be best suited to their major? Will taking one class over another really matter in the long run? Are there combinations of classes that compliment each other better than others? To the relief of many, students pursuing online degrees are not simply left to figure out the college roadmap by themselves. Academic advisors are there, working behind the scenes to assist students in their educational journey. Their work is nearly identical to that of academic advisors working in traditional campus based college programs, except for the fact that they never come in face-to-face contact with the students they are advising!

Academic advisors at online colleges and universities assist students solely via voice and text. At times, students will speak on the phone with their advisors, but for the most part they will communicate via email or online chat message. In this fashion, students are advised about their academic ventures, and are set on the best road to success!

Even though academic advisors in the online college realm may work a bit differently then their campus based counterparts, their value to the students they assist in pursuing online degrees is incredible! Students are able to log into classes feeling confident in their choices, and if they have further concerns – their advisor is there, waiting to help!

More Online Education Questions?

If you have more questions about online degrees, go back to our frequently asked questions about online education page, or call 1-866-944-2648 to talk with an online education expert.