If you want to change the world and make a difference in your community, you’re in good company. But making a global impact is a tall order. How do you even begin?
The answer may surprise you: education.
If the thought of pursuing higher learning feels out of reach, a socially conscious education from an online college or university—an accredited university in particular—will give you the knowledge and skills to make a difference, along with the freedom to balance work and personal commitments.
From choosing the right institution to selecting a major, we’ll walk you through the first steps toward making a difference with your online education.
How to choose an online college or online university
We’ve already established that making a difference—in your community and in the world—starts with a great education. But how do you select the best path toward achieving your dreams?
When it comes to selecting the right online college or university, the best place to start is accreditation. Accreditation by an independent accreditation organization, such as The Higher Learning Commission, helps ensure online colleges and universities meet rigorous quality standards.
Once you find an accredited online university or college that piques your interest, examine its academic offerings. While social work, public policy, education, and criminal justice are all popular disciplines for those interested in making a difference, you could major in just about anything to help change the world. Which brings us to …
How to make a difference with the right major
Selecting the right major at your chosen online college or university starts with passion. Ask yourself what you’re truly passionate about. You can make just as much of a difference in the world with a degree in business or communications as you can with a degree in nursing.
Once you’ve identified a prospective major, dive into the curriculum. Most online institutions give detailed information about each major’s required courses. If you have additional questions, reach out to the advisors at the online college or university—many have support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Look outside the (virtual) classroom
Making a difference may start in the classroom, but at an institution dedicated to social change, it should ultimately wind up in the community.
Explore how graduates from the online college or university are changing the world with their education. Research how the institution is fostering positive change in the world.
Along with an inspiring array of online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, Walden University—an accredited university dedicated to social change—offers students the opportunity to take their passion for changing the world and put their online education to work in communities around the globe.
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.