A growing number of traditional colleges now offer online classes. But, unfortunately, many are also charging virtual learners a "distance learning fee" in addition to their regular tuition. An article from the Independent Florida Alligator shows that officials from the university of florida recently discussed this option:

"The Educational Policy and Strategy Committee will discuss a potential $2-per-credit-hour fee that UF will charge in spring for online classes.

The fee would cover the cost of using the e-Learning system and would not be included in tuition or covered by Bright Futures.

Colleges and departments will also be allowed to charge a Distance Learning fee to cover costs of providing courses away from UF's campus."

The fee may be low in this case. However, I still think that the charging of additional fees is a dangerous path. Online students should not pay a premium for learning virtually. In many cases they are actually saving schools money (on space, utilities, etc).