Associates Degree in Business Online

by Elisha Zerod
(Bozeman, MT, USA)

My learning experience while pursuing an associates degree in business online at Western International University (WIU) was what I expected it would be. I had classes that I had to log into regularly in order to get credit for attendance. I logged into each class on specific-set days at least three times a week.

The coursework was no easier than any other college; I actually failed my first Algebra class (I'm horrible at math). It was pretty tough, but the teachers were always available for discussion, questions, etc., as were the other students. The books were also very helpful and easy to follow along with the coursework. The textbooks were pretty expensive if I bought them through the school's library, but they were cheap if I searched for used copies online.

I feel my teachers were dedicated to my success they always responded when I had questions. I do believe I had one teacher through-out the two years that I attended WIU that was not very responsive, caring, but most got the job done.

The faculty and administrators were also very responsive; I had plenty of people on hand to call if I had a problem. I remember contacting them a handful of times for petty things and they were always nice and helpful.

A requirement of the coursework is interacting with other students. There were group projects that were done through a localized newsgroup (all classes were followed through newsgroups). In every course there was always one newsgroup specifically for students to interact with each other.

We used Outlook Express to communicate with our teachers and peers through newsgroups. WIU also has an extensive online library that was very beneficial for use on coursework, research papers, etc.

I enjoyed distance learning and would do it again. I highly recommend it to anyone with a busy schedule. One can do coursework any time of day or night, as long as they log into their class before the end of any day on the days one is suppose to. Just because the education is online and there is no teacher physically in front of you, does not make it any easier, sometimes it's harder, but definitely worth it. The cost for me wasn't too bad. I was able to get a few pell grants, but it's still pretty pricey.

My overall feeling with WIU is a good one. I don't regret it and I would do it again if I needed to. I didn't have any problems with this specific school. All I can say to potential students is don't expect it to be any easier than a traditional school. It's just as easy to fall behind, maybe easier. So make sure you log on when you're suppose to and don't procrastinate. The online learning experience is always a fun one in my opinion!

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