Getting a degree in construction management through an online college or university is a great way for students to further their education in a nontraditional way. However, some students may wind up avoiding online degree programs because they’re not familiar with the requirements. The good news is that online schools are just as worthy as physical ones, and they’ve got their own set of perks, as well.

An online program for construction management is going to be just that: one that takes place almost entirely online and is by its very nature more tailored to your individual needs. In contrast with traditional universities, which only offer classes at certain times, online universities simply require that you complete your classwork (papers, tests) by a certain time. It’s entirely up to you to decide when to study. You’ll log into the school’s online network to view assignments, download required materials, and upload completed work for review by your professor. That degree of flexibility isn’t found at typical colleges. An online degree in construction management is one you earn on your time, not theirs.

That convenience in class scheduling also allows online students to maintain part-time or full-time jobs while enrolled in classes. There’s a trade-off: earning a degree might take a little longer, but you won’t have to give up your source of income to do it. Additionally, some employers offer tuition reimbursement for students working toward a degree that applies to their job, so be sure to check with your company to see if you’re eligible for this benefit.

Although completion time can stretch if you’re working, it typically takes two years to earn an associate’s degree and four years to earn a bachelor’s degree if you’re taking a full-time class load. The B.S. in construction management offered through ITT Technical Institute requires 180 credit hours, with courses ranging from six to twelve weeks in length; if you’re going to school full-time, that’s about four years to complete. Again, though, that time could expand if you’re working, or if you decide to pursue a higher-level degree than originally planned.

It’s also important to make sure that you’re online construction management degree program is accredited, which means it’s been examined and found to be a worthy institution that offers academically sound programs to its students. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintain databases that can help you find out if your prospective school has been regionally or nationally accredited by a recognized body. Some degree-granting institutions have also received additional accreditation from the American Council for Construction Education, a professional organization devoted to promoting quality education in construction sciences. The bottom line, though, is that your school must be accredited. It’s the best way to make sure you’ll get a good education and a rewarding job.

Online degree programs are similar to traditional ones in what they teach, but the differences — scheduling flexibility, convenience, and more — are all positive ones.