Benefits of Online Learning for International Students

For international students seeking higher education options, online learning offers a unique opportunity to receive a high-quality education without the need to leave their home countries. Through tailored approaches to education, online students can balance their academic pursuits with personal and professional commitments, while receiving individualized support from faculty who are experienced in working with students from diverse backgrounds.

Purdue University’s fully online learning design and technology program stands as an example of program accessibility combined with expert instruction. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Purdue’s online programs make higher education more accessible to students no matter where they reside.

Advantages of Online Learning for an International Student

Online learning holds several interconnected advantages that support an individualized educational experience for international students. Studying online provides an unmatched level of flexibility when compared to other delivery modes. This flexibility allows for tailoring of the online learning experience to meet individual learning needs.

From their home country, international students can learn online at Purdue University while still meeting obligations at home. Online learning also allows opportunities to work outside of the traditional on-campus schedules. So, international students can balance each commitment they have while studying when, where and at what pace they choose.

Additionally, online education tends to provide a broader range of degree options for international students. International students can pursue areas of interest to them that may not otherwise be accessible in their home country, providing an alignment of coursework, career goals and aspirations.
Online programs empower international students to pursue affordable, flexible options that support their goals and ambitions. And all of this can be accomplished through Purdue University’s fully online learning design and technology program.

Flexibility and Time Management

Online education offers international students unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to manage their time effectively. Educational experiences within online learning environments offer course materials, lectures and assignments that are accessible any time and from anywhere. This allows international students to create schedules and manage their time to align with their personal and professional commitments. International students can balance a world class education with work, family responsibilities and other obligations, unconstrained by fixed class schedules or geographical barriers.

Moreover, online education empowers international students to take control of their learning—they can progress through coursework at a pace that is right for their individual needs. By offering flexibility and promoting effective time management, online education enables international students to maximize their productivity, achieve academic success and pursue their educational goals while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Tuition Cost

Online education presents a compelling advantage for international students through its lower tuition costs compared to traditional on-campus programs. By eliminating the need for physical infrastructure and associated expenses, online education can be a more affordable option. As an added cost reducer, international students can save on expenses related to relocation and living costs often associated with studying outside of their home country.

Overall, the lower costs of online education increase the accessibility and affordability for international students. Online education can provide a platform for international students to affordably pursue their academic aspirations without compromising on the quality of their education.

Current Tuition Rates and Fees*
Tuition Rate
PO Infrastructure Fee (per credit hour)
Digital Education Fee (per credit hour)
Total Cost Per Credit Hour**
Total Credit Hours
In-State
$381.20
$18.80
$50.00
$450.00
32
Out-of-State
$601.20
$18.80
$50.00
$670.00
32
Current Tuition Rates and Fees*In-StateOut-of-State
Tuition Rate$381.20$601.20
PO Infrastructure Fee (per credit hour)$18.80$18.80
Digital Education Fee (per credit hour)$50.00$50.00
Total Cost Per Credit Hour**$450.00$670.00
Total Credit Hours3232
Total Program Cost$14,400.00$21,400.00

*Tuition and fees are charged on a per credit hour basis and are subject to annual increases. Annual increases may change the total program cost. Purdue faculty and staff fee remissions may not be available to the online MSEd in Learning Design and Technology program.

**The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.

More Degree Options

Online education opens a wealth of degree options for international students by providing learners access to a diverse array of programs that may not be available in their home countries. Through online platforms, students can choose from a wide range of disciplines, specializations and certifications offered by institutions around the world. This expansive selection of degree options enables international students to pursue their academic interests and career aspirations with greater customization. Whether seeking traditional bachelor’s or master’s degrees or exploring emerging fields such as data science, digital marketing or artificial intelligence, online education empowers international students to find programs that align with their goals.

Overall, the breadth and depth of degree options available through online education affords international students unparalleled opportunities for academic and professional growth.

Personalization to Goals

Through online learning, international students can personalize their educational journey. Via online platforms, students have the flexibility to select courses and programs that best suit their interests and career objectives. This personalized approach allows students to tailor their curriculum, choosing specialized electives, concentrations or certifications that align with their specific career paths.

Additionally, quality universities like Purdue provide customized support and guidance throughout the academic journey that international students might need. Personalization allows international students to reach their academic and professional goals with confidence and flexibility. Online education also usually offers accelerated or self-paced programs, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to fit their individual needs and preferences.

Why Should an International Student Choose Purdue University Online?

By choosing to learn online at Purdue, you gain access to the same high-quality education that is available to on-campus students, with the same world-class faculty guiding you through individualized connections and supporting you every step of the way.

Because the program is 100% online, there’s no need for costly trips to campus. Plus, tuition remains the same, with no increased fees for international students. Study on your schedule and achieve your educational goals without compromise.

Source: Luke Bennett, PhD