While most people are packing sunblock and flip flops this summer, many college students are opting for books and homework. More individuals are enrolling in summer courses, which could help them advance their education faster and obtain a degree at a lower cost.
During the annual North American Association of Summer Sessions conference call, many school representatives reported this year has continued the trend from the last decade and has seen an increase in enrollment in these courses, according to Boston.com.
One of the biggest reasons why students are choosing to take these courses has to do with program changes or double majors. These classes allow individuals to alleviate a heavy workload during the fall and spring semesters.
Also, due to the weak economy, it has become more difficult for college students to find summer jobs. Instead of struggling with low-paying positions, summer course enrollees prefer to further their education, which can help them get a higher-salary job after graduation.
Furthermore, schools nationwide that offer web-based opportunities have seen a dramatic rise in students taking these courses during summer months, the news source reports.
For example, in 2005, St. Cloud State University reported that 6 percent of students enrolled during the summer semester were taking online courses. Last year, web-based enrollment was up to 26 percent, and is projected to increase more than 30 percent this year.
Currently, more than 3.5 million students are enrolled in at least one online course, the U.S. Distance Learning Association reports.
