Check before you start: you ought to be able to submit a portfolio of your life experiences that parallel course content, and get some credits. For example, if you worked in HR, you can get credit for an HR course without having to take it. UMUC does a good job with this.

And yes, AVOID for-profit schools, as that NYTimes article indicates.

I've taught at a traditional university and now at online one. The world of education is changing fast. Nobody can keep up with the skyrocketing costs of campuses larded down with rock-climbing walls and football programs. Online is not for everyone and not for every program, but for the right person in the right program, it can be every bit as good as a brick and mortar school and in some situations, better. If you are 18 and fresh out of high school, traditional school might be a better choice, but there are many other types of students. UMUC is a good program. There are a lot of others, too. Don't be discouraged by the many old school marms on here with the attitude, "I went to a traditional school 20 years ago, so obviously, that is the best choice."

are there any instate virginia ones

I earned a 2nd bachelor's from UMUC - night courses. It's a very good school. All of my professors were from UM, some of them had taught my classes when I was a traditional student at UM. If I needed to take any online courses, I wouldn't hesitate to take them from UMUC. Another recommendation: Penn State online. Also a very good school.

there is nothing wrong with an online degree as long as the school is accredited. If you are really worried about it do an online brick and mortar school.

Anonymous wrote:I think it depends on the industry. For IT - which I am in - on line is fine and almost expected. Who needs to sit in a class? Will you be able to manage an international project if you really needed to sit face to face to learn/communicate.

If I was hiring a nurse - I might think face to face is more important.

OP here. I'm in IT which is why I don't think it's such a big deal.

Anonymous wrote:don't waste your $ online.
Former Phoenix teacher.

You said it perfectly, Phoenix TEACHER most at not for profit places consider themselves professors.

I think it depends on the industry. For IT - which I am in - on line is fine and almost expected. Who needs to sit in a class? Will you be able to manage an international project if you really needed to sit face to face to learn/communicate.

If I was hiring a nurse - I might think face to face is more important.

Anonymous wrote:OP here. At least 2 yrs worth of classes as I was close to an Associates and didn't finish. My career has still taken off to a certain point but now it's time to really accomplish that personal goal that I set for myself years ago before family illness, marriage and children got in the way.

Several of my colleagues started in the industry and didn't have a degree so a degree isn't essential for me to progress in my chosen field.

I will definitely check out UMUC, they were on my short list.

If this is actually the case then I would think UMUC would be your best bet. They aren't really looking at your degree critically so if this accomplishes your personal goal then do it.

don't waste your $ online.
Former Phoenix teacher.