Matt Vilano of The Career Couch recently handled the age old question regarding the worth of an online degree. Noting the importance of doing one's homework before enrolling online, Vilano responded without hesitation stating "online degrees can be a boon to your career and your life."

However, Vilano offers up a simple qualifier. An online degree can be a very important step in your career "as long you choose the right program and understand the commitment that will be involved."

The writer also tackles the false assumptions that earning an online degree comes without significant effort. First, an accredited program will demand a time and work commitment and second, online programs demand more personal discipline than traditional schooling.

Students seeking an easy, laid back path to a degree will be sorely disappointed. Vilano notes students should be "prepared to spend at least 10 to 20 hours a week, for at least one or two years, on your online learning -- and possibly more, depending on the degree"

Vilano adds that students must be "aware that this type of education requires much more self-direction and self-discipline than traditional classes would."