Distance learning programs bring education to military service members

Distance learning programs bring education to military service members

Military service members and civilians face the same challenges when looking to earn a degree. Familial obligations, hectic work schedules and moving for a job can come between an adult learner and a degree. However, due to schools such as the American Military University (AMU), working professionals can earn a degree in a time frame that meets their needs.

AMU offers more than 100 online degrees to national security and public service individuals, who can complete a degree while on active duty, reports RealOnlineDegrees.com. The school's certificates, associates, bachelors and masters degrees are also offered to civilians.

The benefit of enrolling in a program such as the ones offered by AMU is a liberal completion policy. Students who are pursuing degrees have between seven and 10 years to complete their coursework, and learners are only required to complete one class per calendar year.

Many similar programs are using advanced technology to deliver educational information to students. AMU, for example, has partnered with iTunes to offer downloadable coursework. Audio content is compatible with Macs, PCs and iPods. These small conveniences allow students to continue their education anywhere they have internet access and free time.

Today, nearly 4 million students are taking online courses and earning online degrees, Reuters reports.

By Mark Danson