The idea of earning a university degree from the comfort of your home may seem too good to be true. With online learning, it doesn't have to be. There are a few things to consider, though, before you enroll.

If you heard about the program from a spam e-mail message, be wary. While it's possible that it's a legitimate educational institution, it's most likely some form of scam, such as a diploma mill that awards "students" fake degrees and credentials.

While there are some schools that specialize in online learning, most online degree programs are extensions of an existing program at a brick and mortar university. You are more likely to find advanced degrees, like MBAs, offered. You can find nearly any subject online, though, so you'll never know if there's a program that's right for you until you perform extensive research.

Before beginning any online degree program, it is vital that you ask about both the school's and the degree's accreditations. You want to make sure that you will have a degree that will be recognized by employers or other universities when you finish your course of study. The school itself can be accredited by national and regional organizations, with national accreditation being more prestigious. What organization should endorse the degree program, or if it's even necessary, will depend upon your major. Check with professional organizations in your field for guidelines.

You should also take some time to reflect on yourself, your learning style and your schedule before beginning an online degree program. One of the biggest advantages of online learning is the flexibility; you can schedule class time when it's convenient for you. At the same time, online classes require as much work, if not more, than traditional programs, so you must set aside enough time for your studies. Also consider how important lectures and in-person discussions are to your learning. Some students thrive in an online environment of e-mail and web forum communication, while others miss the human connection. Finally, think about how well you think you'll perform without the external motivation of attending class every week. Will you keep on top of your work, or will you let deadlines slide?

Online programs are making university degrees available to thousands who otherwise wouldn't have been able to attend college. You can be a part of that number if you proceed carefully.