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            Our world has most certainly changed since the advent of the internet.  In no other sector has the effects been seen more acutely than in education.  The internet was first conceived as a learning tool, but it’s gone far beyond anyone’s expectations.
                Not only can we research things online, but now students can earn entire degrees online.  The internet has changed how we learn entirely by giving us a new method of delivery.  And no matter whether you’re enrolled at a private school or with an online university taking classes on the internet has many financial advantages.
                That being said, online schools and universities that offer certifications and degrees are a great place to further your education.  Over the years many of these online schools have greatly increased the quality of their education with many programs being right on par with that of traditional in classes that are found in universities. 
            Students who take classes online have not shown any sign of retaining less information than in class students.  In fact, now nearly all traditional schools offer some kind of online option in their curriculum and have found it to be a very productive teaching medium.  A 2006 study by the Sloan Consortium discovered that around 62% of chief education advisors thought online education helped students learn as good or better than traditional learning.
            Employers have also taken notice of the increase in the quality of online degree programs.  Another 2006 study that was done by Vault Inc. showed that 81% of employers surveyed thought online degrees were more credible than 5 years ago.  In addition 86% of those employers said they would hire someone with an online degree.  Those numbers are definitely improvements over years prior showing again that online learning is becoming more and more the accepted norm.
            The benefits of getting a degree online as opposed to traditional learning methods is felt greatest by the students themselves and their wallets.  These financial benefits are directly related to actual cost as well as other savings that aren’t evident.

The Actual Cost of an Education Program

            In actuality some online degree programs can cost as much as traditional programs.  However, there are many that are very affordable and on average they will cost a student far less and be closer to the cost of attending a community college.  For example the total cost of the MBA program at Kaplan University is $20,540.  Below are statics from the College Board for the 2008-2009 estimated yearly cost of higher education at various institutions.

Community College - $4,552*
In State University - $17,336
Private University - $35,374
*doesn’t include room and board

Travel
            With gas prices easily staying above $3.50 a gallon people have started calculating how much each mile costs them.  If you’re having to travel to get to class, then find parking, then drive back home the credit hour cost is ticking up higher than the tuition amount.  Students who are taking classes online don’t have to worry about this added expense.  Over the course of a semester hundreds can be saved on gas alone. 
            Another less obvious expense is the wear and tear this additional travel puts on your car.  By driving less there’s a reduced need of upkeep and anyone who’s trying to resell their car will be happier with the odometer reading.

Time Management
                The benefit of reduced travel bleeds right into the benefit of better time management that comes with taking educational courses online.  This time that would be spent in your car can be put to better use actually attending class online. 
Another time management bonus with online courses is being able to set your own schedule. 
            In traditional schools and universities students have a limited number of options for when they can take a certain class.  If those times don’t fit into your schedule then you don’t get to take the class.  For those who have family commitments or have to work while taking classes this is a hurdle as huge as cost.  Most all online courses offer 24/7 access so that class can begin whenever you want.

Additional Savings

Shorter time to graduate – By learning online you might be able to take on a greater work load each semester than you would in a traditional learning institution.  Because you don’t have to travel and you can manipulate your class schedule the time you save can mean less time spent earning the degree.

Less Cost for materials – In an internet oriented class students have a much better chance of getting the option of using virtual, online tools, materials, and resources rather than materials like books that must be purchased and possibly never used again.

No room and board – As the statistics above show, when the cost of room and board are tacked on to the cost of earning a degree at a traditional school it makes a significant difference.  Online learning doesn’t require any type of relocation so this cost becomes a moot point.

Learn in own environment – Learning in your own environment does make a monetary difference if it means you’re more likely to pass the class and not have to pay to take it again.  Many people can become self-conscious, nervous and uncomfortable in a classroom setting surrounded by many others.  Online learning allows for students to learn at a pace that’s comfortable to them and in an environment that is conducive for their learning.  These factors can greatly improve a student’s performance and thus the time and cost of earning a degree.