Released

Released on = March 29, 2007, 3:08 pm

Press Release Author = Don Keith

Industry = Education

Press Release Summary = Virginia College Online releases new guidelines in response
to increasing interest in online learning.

Press Release Body = March 29, 2007 Birmingham, AL -- In an effort to help students
choose the online school that is right for them, Virginia College has developed a
set of tips that will narrow the field. The Internet has exploded in recent years
with hundreds of opportunities for online learning, but with these opportunities
come pitfalls.

Darrell Hanbury, Director of Admissions at Virginia College Online, notes that
although there are many excellent online schools, there are also others that just
don\'t offer a well-rounded education or in-depth classes. Some are not stable and
don\'t have the reputation that is needed to carry enough weight when graduates are
seeking employment.

To help students determine which online schools offer the best educational
opportunities, Virginia College suggests the following:

Make sure the school is accredited by a reputable government agency. While many
schools will tout their accreditation, the agencies aren\'t all created equal.
Schools that offer Federal Title IV financial aid, including student loans and Pell
grants, are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The best online schools will have admissions counselors available to help you every
step of the way. This counselor should be able to tell you about the courses you
will be taking, the skills you will acquire and what career options you will have
upon graduation.

The best online schools will be glad to offer you a list of companies that have
hired their graduates. These references indicate that employers value degrees or
certificates from the school, and also assure the quality of the school\'s job
placement programs.

Hanbury also noted, "While there are many very good online schools that don\'t have
brick-and-mortar campuses, it\'s usually a sign of stability if the school can point
to operating on-ground campuses as well. For example, Virginia College Online is
affiliated with eight campuses around the country and offers students the option of
attending classes in traditional classrooms or via the online school."



Web Site = http://www.vconline.edu

Contact Details = Virginia College Online
http://www.vconline.edu
300 River Hills Business Park
Birmingham, AL 35242
205-329-7911