In 2008, one in 10 students are expected to take classes online according to a recent study — maybe even you. As more schools begin offering courses online, how can you tell which school is credible – or what degree program is a fit for you? These tips from American Public University System can help:

1. Ask friends, colleagues and advisors

Their honest, objective opinion is valuable and can reflect how employers will view your degree. Your degree — and the university from which you graduate — should tell employers you have the knowledge and commitment necessary for the job.

2. Conduct smart research online

Be specific when doing keyword searches. Consider keywords related to your desired program of study — “online psychology degree” or “online homeland security degree,” for example.

The search results will likely offer links to schools as well as to education directories or education portals. These resources are often independent of the schools, so can be an efficient way to identify and compare potential schools.

Carefully consider other online information sources as well, such as blogs.

3. Evaluate resources carefully

Some directories are very comprehensive, while others promote only one or a few schools. One way to tell the difference is to look for advertising contact information. If the site does not list any, it probably is a third-party site marketing for the school(s) listed.

Even comprehensive directories present varying degrees of information. For example, www.gradschools.com offers basic free listings as well as sells enhanced listings to schools. Some only list those universities that advertise with them.

4. Find out these facts

• Details about the school, its mission, affiliations, etc.
• Program and course offerings
• Pre-requisites and entrance requirements
• Faculty credentials and accreditation status - make sure the institution's accrediting body is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (www.chea.org)
• Tuition, fees, financial aid and scholarship options

5. Check out student interaction

Are there discussion groups? Are audio or video technologies used in the classroom? Look for asynchronous ways to interact, such as newsgroups and web forums. Asynchronous means you do not have to log in at a certain time to participate. Synchronous tools – which require you to log in at specific times -- include live chats, shared whiteboards, teleconferences or videoconferences.

6. Dig deeper

Start communicating with the school directly. Find out how long they have been offering your particular program. Ask to speak with students and alumni about their experiences. Once you have explored these topics, you are well on your way to hitting the books at the school that’s right for you.