Most students agree that the convenience and flexibility of online classes make them increasingly attractive. The ability to fit school into busy, ever-changing personal schedules is one of the many reasons people choose to learn online. Online courses can save commuting time and expense, and allow students to spend more time with their families, on the job, or dedicated to other commitments.

Online classes can offer learning opportunities through discussion boards, blogs, wikis, journaling, and Open Educational Resources (OER). OERs are free online textbooks. Students can expect an online course to contain the same depth, breadth and rigor as an on-campus course.

Blended or hybrid courses offer a combination of both classroom and online learning. Students are expected to complete both the in-person classroom and online components of the class for successful completion of the course.

“A great man once told me to manage my time or it would manage me. Time management is very important in an online setting, so getting a better grip on time management helps you focus on what matters and puts you on track to meet your goals,” says Michael Gavin, director of Marketing and Community Relations at Isothermal Community College.

Isothermal offers many online options including:

• Associate in Arts
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Accounting
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Business Administration – General
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Business Administration – Entrepreneurship
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Business Administration – Hospitality
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Business Administration – Office Management
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Criminal Justice Technology
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Emergency Medical Science (EMS Bridge Program)
• Associate in Applied Sciences – General Education – Nursing
• Associate in Applied Sciences – General Occupational Technology Health Transfer
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Information Technology – Business Support
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Information Technology – Computer Programming and Development
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Information Technology – Gaming Programming
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Information Technology – Web Administration and Design
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Medical Office Administration – Healthcare Administration
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Medical Office Administration – Patient Services Representative
• Associate in Applied Sciences – Occupational Education Associate

In addition, there are dozens of online diploma and certificate programs offered fully online or in hybrid settings. Much more information may be found on the Isothermal website at isothermal.edu/distance-learning

It is important to be self-motivated, to have good writing skills and to be able to ask for help when you need it. Online classes can be a convenient way to further your education.