What Are Some Benefits of an Online Bachelor's Degree?

Online education offers many choices. From traditional academic degrees to specialized programs and certificates, adult learners can explore the educational pathway that works best for their career goals. Among the various available pathways, online bachelor’s degrees remain a popular choice for learners regardless of their industry.

Patricia Olson, Ed.D, learning and leadership development manager at Giant Food, recently explained bachelor’s degrees’ enduring value and why many learners choose to pursue them.

Given that modern learners have access to more types of academic programs than ever before, are you still seeing a lot of interest in bachelor’s degrees on your team? 

We are - we continue to see steady interest in obtaining bachelor's degrees at Giant Food. On average, we have about 30-35 people enrolled per year.

Why do these degrees remain popular?

A lot of our associates went to work at our organization right out of high school and want to grow within the organization. We want to retain them because of their significant institutional knowledge. The education they obtain by completing a bachelor’s degree can provide both broader and focused perspectives in their areas of interest, which rounds out their skillsets. This adds huge value to our organization as well as opens up opportunities for them.

What are some benefits of pursuing a bachelor's degree online for working adults? 

Hands down, it’s the flexibility. Many of our associates enrolled in a bachelor’s program are not only working adults but are also raising families. They appreciate the ability to engage in the asynchronous learning that virtual programs provide. They can engage in learning anytime, anywhere. 

Do you have any advice for someone considering an online bachelor’s program? 

We actually asked this question of our graduates last year and posted their answers on our internal monitors throughout our stores and offices. By and large the answer was to take the plunge – you won’t regret it. Learn what the school has in terms of support, enlist your family and friends to cheer you on, and remain focused – keep your eye on the prize. You will never forget the feeling of accomplishment you’ll experience when they put that diploma in your hands.

Any additional thoughts? 

It’s important for people to learn for the sake of learning. Having a piece of paper doesn’t magically change your life, but the change in you does.

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