Paying for College in Ohio

With college tuition rates having risen to over four times the inflation rate over the last 25 years, community colleges have seen an increase in applications by 40 percent. Private student loans have become few and far between, making high education completely unattainable for some.

Governor James Rhodes, who first took the office in Ohio in 1963, had a reputation for being committed to higher education. Unfortunately, Ohio's public university system ranks 44th out of the 50 states for affordability. Many people just cannot afford to return to school to get a degree.

Online learning can help because tuition is more affordable, and quality does not suffer because most instructors are experts in the field they teach.

In the 1950s, Ohio's per capita income ranked five to ten percent higher than the national average. Today, it's around five to six percent below. Without affordable higher education for Ohio residents, the state is doomed to remain below the national average because plants will continue to close and move to states with more residents who have obtained college degrees.

But if you're more concerned with getting a quality education than socializing with fellow students, Internet-based learning can meet all of your needs at a much lower price than you would face if you took your classes in person. You can get your Associate's degree, Bachelors, and even your Master's degree or Ph.D. all from within the comfort of your own home.

An easy way to get started is to save money for just one online class. Sign up for that class, and once you get into a routine of study, it will be that much easier to do next time.

And depending on your course of study, you may be eligible for loan forgiveness. Ask a college advisor about careers in child care, health, law, teaching, and nursing.

Scholarships, grants, and tax credits can also make college more affordable. Memorial funds and teaching scholarships and grants are available, as well as credit for military service. Again, talk to a college advisor about opportunities you may not even know about. Then sign up for some online courses and get on track to your new career.

Ohio needs workers with college degrees. Don't fall into the trap of thinking you can't afford to go to college. In today's world, you can't afford not to have a degree. You don't have to interrupt your life to get your degree. Ohio's online education is the perfect solution.