Why Do People Say Online Courses Are Harder Than Regular College Classes?

As someone who's completed an online college experience at Nexford University, I can confidently say that online courses at Nexford are designed to prepare you with real-world skills. The curriculum isn't just theoretical; it also involves applying what you learn directly to practical challenges. Whether you're studying Global Business, AI, Digital Transformation, or Entrepreneurship, the courses are rigorous but highly relevant and valuable.

Real-World Relevance of Online College Courses

The coursework in online courses is often more challenging than in-person classes because it requires you to apply knowledge in practical scenarios. For instance, at Nexford, many courses involve hands-on projects and real-world challenges that prepare you for the real world.

The Importance of Self-Motivation in Online Learning

Another significant aspect of online learning is the level of self-motivation required. Unlike in-person classes, you won't have a professor reminding you about due dates and projects. Instead, you must stay motivated and manage your time effectively. Bulk of the learning success depends on your commitment and ability to remain self-disciplined.

Nexford has a strong support system to help students stay on track. However, you still need to take responsibility for your own learning. This can be challenging but rewarding if you are committed. You'll find the experience fulfilling and worthwhile, even if it's different from traditional classroom settings.

Labor-Intensive Content in Online Courses

One of the main reasons why some people find online courses harder is that the content can be more labor-intensive. Even if you take the same class twice, you might find that the online version requires significantly more work.

I have personal experience with this. I took Art History both in-person and online at the same university. In the in-person class, I had just two projects (a mid-term project and a final) and some required reading. That was all that counted towards my grade. However, in the online version, there was almost double the workload. The online course included:

Bigger reading requirements Video lectures that reinforced the reading Quizzes and tests to check understanding Projects and discussion posts

Not only were there more tasks to complete, but I had to put in over triple the time and effort into the online class to receive the same grade (98) at the end of the semester as I did in the in-person class. The extra work was to prove my engagement and commitment, not just to receive financial aid.

The Benefits of Rigorous Online Courses

Online courses are not necessarily "easier," but they do offer a different kind of challenge. This rigorous learning environment can provide significant benefits, as long as you're willing to put in the work. The skills you gain are highly relevant and valuable, and the experience can be highly rewarding.

In conclusion, the difficulty of online courses is not about the time management or self-discipline needed; it's about the additional work required to engage deeply with the material. Online courses are just as challenging, if not more, and can be highly beneficial if you're committed to the process.