You have decided to go back to school and would like to find a good online education program. You have decided on the subject for your major. You know what level of degree you would like to earn. You know how long you would like to take to earn this degree. Now all you have to do is find the right online program. There are several things you should think about when judging the online programs.

First: What is the typical length of a program in your field of study?

If you want to earn a bachelor's degree in roughly two years, you will have to look for a program that offers that timeframe. Some schools schedule your classes one at a time, which means it takes longer to earn a degree. For those who are very busy with family and work, this arrangement may be the most beneficial. If you would like to earn your degree faster, you might be able to double up on classes. Before doing so, make sure that you will still have the time to dedicate to your studies and that you will be able to do so with the school. (Some schools do not allow this.)

Second: What are the tuition, fees and other associated costs?

Evaluate the schools based on value - if two schools offer basically the same educational experience and same level of degree but one will save you a couple hundred bucks, that is the school for you.

Third: Is the school accredited, well-known and respected?

A good online program is through an accredited school, allowing you to qualify for financial aid and other assistance.

Fourth: What kind of support system does the school offer you?

Most, but not all, online schools have academic advisors and other support staff that can help you reach all of the educational goals that you set for yourself. In addition to this support staff, you will typically have access to the school's online library and other educational resources as well.

Fifth: Does anything about this program stand out to you?

Sometimes the right school will jump out at you. You may find yourself seeing ads for this school, or the school's name in odd places. You might have just read an article about the program in the paper or online. Whatever it is, if something makes one school standout above the others in the same field, then take it as a sign of good luck.

A good online degree is one that will not only let you reach your potential but inspire you to reach a little higher, dig a little deeper and work a little harder to go beyond what you feel capable of.