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In addition to the clear benefit of flexibility, the growth of online learning has been driven by showing it can be just as effective as face-to-face education. If you are looking to move ahead in your career and step into a leadership role, earning an online graduate degree can offer many benefits.

Here are five distinct advantages to attending the University of �鶹������ý at Lafayette online.

1. Online programs can be more affordable

Many schools offer lower tuition for affordable online graduate programs. At �鶹������ý Lafayette, out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate as in-state students. 

Even if tuition is not lower than an on-campus degree, you still save because you do not need to commute or move.

You can keep working, avoid extra child care costs, and cover the same material as a campus student. Some fast-track online master's programs let you finish sooner. 

When you compare costs, remember that the says a master's degree brings, on average, about a $12,000 yearly pay increase. Over time, that can be a solid return on your investment.

2. Enhanced discussions and enriched interactions

In a  article, online graduate student Lila Romero said the discussion forum helped her learn the course content and understand classmates' views. 

“In an in-person class, it's sometimes hard to hear thoughts from introverted classmates who typically shy away from speaking up … As a student, it has been very fulfilling to know that others are actually taking the time to reflect on my points and offer support in the development of my ideas.”

Because your cohort may include students from many parts of the U.S. and even other countries, you build wider ties and expand your network.

3. Improve virtual communication and technical skills

Online classes ask you to organize your thoughts, write clearly, and keep your tone in mind. Regular written exchanges with peers and professors can improve your professional communication.

An online program also gives you a chance to learn new tools, including video meetings, shared documents, and audio and video software. Those skills matter more and more in today's global, virtual workplace.

4. Access to the best programs from a distance

The wide access an online graduate degree program provides lets you choose the school you want, no matter where you live. 

Want to earn your Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) advanced practitioner degree from �鶹������ý Lafayette while living in Alaska? No problem. You will learn from skilled �鶹������ýearn-certified faculty members who give steady support and help you master your coursework.

5. You can take a master’s program for a test ride with an online Graduate Certificate

Not sure you want to commit to a master's program yet? An online Graduate Certificate lets you test advanced study first. It helps you build knowledge and skills for career growth in less time. 

Some programs include coursework that can be applied toward a master's degree if you do decide to continue later.

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Q&A

Question: Is an online graduate degree as effective as an in-person program?

Short answer: Research shows online learning can be just as effective as face-to-face education. An online graduate degree often covers the same material as a campus program while giving working adults more flexibility.

Question: How can attending grad school online save money?

Short answer: �鶹������ý Lafayette charges out-of-state students the same tuition as in-state students. Students may also save by avoiding commuting, moving, and extra child care costs while keeping their jobs.

Question: What skills can students build in an online graduate program?

Short answer: Students can improve written communication by working with peers and professors online. They can also build technical skills with video meetings, shared documents, and audio and video tools that are important in virtual workplaces.

Question: What is the value of starting with an online Graduate Certificate?

Short answer: An online Graduate Certificate lets students explore advanced study before they commit to a full master's program. It can build career-focused skills quickly, and some credits may transfer into an online master's degree later.