Free Online College Classes and Alternative College Credit

Today, a college education in a field of study that is marketable is more important than ever.  But, trying to cover the costs of that education can be daunting, to say the least.  Fortunately, there are many alternatives to the traditional brick and mortor college or university.  Below are links which I learned about from the blog, The Simple Dollar, which will connect you to free online courses:

 

 

Coursera  has complete online college-level courses, with all of the materials and quizzes-

 https://www.coursera.org/

 

Khan Academy has online courses from introductive to advanced college courses-

http://www.khanacademy.org/

 

Duolingo teaches foreign languages-

https://www.duolingo.com/

 

MIT's Opencourseware teaches technology-related topics and general topics-

http://ocw.mit.edu/index.htm

 

Treehouse offers computer programming training for a low fee.

 

 

If you are a Vermont State College Student or member of the military, you can take C.L.E.P. or

D.S.S.T. tests to receive three to six credits for specific subjects:

 

http://clep.collegeboard.org/

 

http://getcollegecredit.com/

 

Another option is the Prior Learning Assessment through Community College of Vermont.  It offers students the option to request credit for college-level learning and experience gained through work and training, military or community service, online or individual study.  This is a great option for adult learners and continuing education students.

 

http://ccv.edu/explore-ccv-programs/credit-for-what-you-know/

 

 

In today's global economy, everything is constantly changing with technology, scientific discovery, and innovation.  In order to keep up, life-long learning is essential.  Take advantage of online courses and free training at your place of employment.  Have a plan in mind as to what skills you want to market.  Find a mentor in the the field you are interested in.  Offer to do an internship in order to gain experience. 

 

You can visit the VSAC website to get a picture of the field you would like to work in to see what the job market projections look like:

 

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/

 

The following link will bring you to the VSAC website to help you determine which career is right for you:

 

 http://services.vsac.org/wps/wcm/connect/vsac/vsac/explore+careers

 

 

So, as you can see, there are many options out there to gain the education you need to have the career you are interested in, without spending a fortune.    I plan on taking some of the online courses myself, and then doing the prior assessment of learning at CCV.  It makes sense to get college credit for what you already know.