While that's a good thing, it can be difficult for students to narrow down the choices to those best meeting their needs.

But, it doesn't have to be so tough if you spend a little time thinking and putting together a list of questions. The first question should be to yourself. What are you looking for in an online degree program? As you develop answers to that question you will be well on your way to choosing an online degree program.

The questions below are universal...they are a good starting point. Depending on your needs and preferences, just add to them.

First, students should eliminate from consideration any institutions which are not fully accredited by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education.

Next is the question of majors? Which colleges offer the major in which you are interested? How strong are their programs? Do they offer concentrations or specialties of interest to you? What are the backgrounds of faculty? All are questions worth asking.

You should consider financial variables, of course, but do so carefully. Don't just ask about tuition. It's only part of the puzzle. Find out about the availability of scholarships, grants, loans, and installment payment plans.

If you have done prior college coursework, or if you have experience for which you might be granted college credit, ask about colleges' credit transfer policies. Specifically, be sure you understand what you must do to determine which transfer credits you might receive and the number of such credits which might be applied to your degree. In addition, ask if you can be informed, in writing, which credits will be accepted before you enroll.

Don't forget to thoroughly investigate student services, which can vary widely from college to college in both availability and quality. Ask in depth questions about whatever kinds of support are most important to you; financial aid counseling, academic advising, contact with faculty and fellow students, tutoring, job placement, etc.

Take some time to think about and clarify your educational and professional objectives. You'll then be able to know which questions to add to those we've already discussed. As you obtain answers to those questions, you will be able to rule out some of your potential choices fairly quickly and identify others worthy of continued consideration.

For most students, getting their questions answered turns out to be pretty easy. The harder job is being certain they are asking the right questions. Luckily, that should not now be a problem for you.