So you want to go to college but don’t have the funds? Or perhaps you’ve decided that a career in marketing isn’t for you and you’d rather go to school for something more practical? If so, you’re in luck because there are dozens of online degree programs designed for those looking to break into the online marketing world but don’t want to commit to a traditional four-year education.

Decide What You Want

The first step to taking advantage of online degree programs is deciding what you want. Do you want an online marketing degree for beginners or for professionals? Are you looking for a strictly academic degree or do you want to develop practical skills as well? Take some time to consider all the options and work on narrowing down the list to a manageable amount. You can also consult with a college advisor or careers expert to get help selecting the right program for your needs.

Traditional Vs. Online

Nowadays, with so many opportunities available online, it’s important to consider whether to pursue a traditional offline or an online degree. There are pros and cons to both, but below we’ll outline a few advantages of going the traditional route.

Possibilities

One of the major advantages of a traditional offline degree is that it offers many more possibilities for job placement than an online degree does. If you’re looking for a specific job, you can usually find it in your area of study, but beyond that, the field is completely open to creative thinkers and problem solvers. You won’t find many restrictions or requirements, which makes it a great choice for those who want to explore a variety of opportunities.

Security

Another major advantage of a traditional offline degree is that it provides a sense of security. Many employers look at a college degree as a sign of reliability and responsibility, especially when you’re applying for a job that requires specific skills or knowledge. A college degree also shows that you’ve put in the effort to get an education, which should be rewarded with some trust. It’s important to keep in mind that not every so-called degree leads to a secure or successful future; however, the odds are much better if you choose your majors wisely and prepare for the future accordingly.

Timeliness

Another advantage of a traditional offline degree is that you can generally get it when you’re ready. In today’s world, especially with the recent push for colleges to become more affordable, having a degree isn’t something to scoff at. Many universities now offer online degree programs with reasonable prices, but those pursuing the traditional route can often find work right away without having to wait for a cohort to complete their studies. For those looking for a career change, a traditional degree can also make a decent intermediate step before moving onto an online degree program.

Affordability

A traditional college degree is usually much cheaper than an online degree, which is one of the reasons so many people are deciding to pursue it. There are plenty of reputable, accredited online degree programs out there, but the cost can add up quickly. If you’re on a tight budget, consider what you’ll need to pay for living expenses and how much you’ll have to spend on education. If you decide that a traditional route isn’t for you, you can use your remaining financial resources to apply to a reputable online degree program.

Variety

A traditional degree gives you the opportunity to specialize in a variety of fields. While you’ll have to choose your major carefully, you’ll have the flexibility to explore a variety of topics. An abundance of universities offer different specializations or tracks, so if you decide that you don’t want to become a doctor or lawyer, you can always find a school that offers an alternative. Alternatively, you can use your degree to further your education or research, or perhaps even teach.

Creative Thinking

A major advantage of a traditional degree is that it promotes creative thinking. To quote a famous marketing professor, “The single most important thing any business can do to succeed is to think creatively.” If you’re searching for a job in marketing and understand the importance of being creative, you may decide that a traditional degree isn’t for you. However, if you want to develop your creative side, a traditional degree can help you do so. What’s more, you don’t necessarily need a degree to be creative – as long as you have the ability to come up with unique ideas, you can be as creative as you want.

Flexibility

Flexibility is yet another advantage of a traditional degree. While you may need to adjust your schedule to fit in with college classes and study hours, you can generally find more flexibility in your job prospects. If you decide to go the traditional route, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of careers within the field and even change your mind later on if you don’t feel that you can make the transition comfortably. If you decide that a degree isn’t for you but you’d like to keep your options open, consider doing some side-hustles to make some extra cash – you never know when a little side-income could turn into a full-fledged career.

Overall

Taking the time to consider all the advantages that a traditional college degree has to offer is worthwhile. A traditional degree shows that you’re responsible and serious about getting an education, and many employers value these qualities in their employees. If you’re looking for a degree that will make you more employable, a traditional degree is a great option to consider.

Which One Should You Pursue?

So you’ve decided that you want to go the traditional route and get a degree. Great! But which one should you get? There are several options, but keep in mind that the decision is entirely up to you. Here are a few things to consider:

Prestige

The first and most important thing you need to consider is the prestige of the school. Not every college or university is created equally, and the more prestigious the school, the greater the difference in terms of job opportunities. If you’re unsure of the prestige of the school you’re considering, search for reviews on websites like Niche and GradReports to get an idea of what other students and recent graduates are saying about the school.

Placement

Even if you do get a job right away after graduating, it’s still worthwhile to consider where you’ll go. If you have a clear idea of where you want to work, you can find the best online marketing degree program designed for your needs. Be sure to do your research and make sure the school is reputable and can place you in the position you desire. Remember: you’re looking for a cheap online marketing degree, so it’s important to find a school that offers a quality program at a decent price.

Career Growth

One of the major concerns for those looking for a job is how much their education will cost them in terms of career growth. In today’s world, the cost of a traditional college degree is so high that it can prevent many from pursuing it. However, if you’re able to get in on the ground floor of a reputable school, you may be able to find an accredited online marketing degree that will prepare you for a job, but won’t break the bank. After earning your degree, you’ll be able to work in a variety of fields and find a job that offers growth and advancement.

Whether you choose a traditional college degree or opt for an online degree, the choice is entirely up to you. However, if you’re looking for a degree that you can use to further your career or earn a higher income, consider going the traditional route.