How to assess the reputation of online colleges?

So, I'm considering some online colleges as an alternative, given my work-life balance. We know about all the big names, but how do I know if an online college is reputable? Are there any specific indicators I should watch out for or any resources you guys recommend for checking out the credibility of these online institutions?

Assessing the reputation of online colleges is an essential part of your college decision-making process. Here are few indicators to look for when researching the credibility of online colleges.

1. Accreditation: The most significant indicator of a reputable online college is whether it's accredited by an organization recognized by the U.S Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the school's programs meet certain academic standards. There are regional and national accrediting bodies. For most fields, regional accreditation is preferred.

2. Curriculum and Faculty: Review the curriculum for your major and see if its comprehensive, up-to-date, and aligns with your career goal. Also, ensure that the faculty members are well-qualified with relevant academic credentials, preferably from highly-regarded institutions. The faculty's professional experience and ongoing involvement in their field is also a good indicator of the program's quality.

3. Graduation Rate and Job Placement: High graduation rates often signal that the college supports its students effectively, and successful job placement reflects well on the program's reputation in the professional world. Colleges often publish these stats on their websites

4. Student Support Services: Reputable online colleges provide robust student support services, including academic advising, career services, technical support, and opportunities for interaction with faculty and peers.

5. Transfer of Credits: If the college accepts credits from other institutions, it's often a good sign that other institutions recognize the school's academic rigor.

6. Affordability and Financial Aid: Consider the total cost of the program, the availability of financial aid, and transparency about tuition and fees.

In addition to these factors, you can also check reviews from current students and alumni, and rankings in reputable publications. It's also worth mentioning that many well-established brick-and-mortar universities now offer excellent online programs, which carry the same weight as their on-campus counterparts. This can be a good option if you want the flexibility of online learning but still want a degree from a recognized university.