It can't be denied: a College Degree greatly improves career and earning potential.

But so many people have been forced to leave college before completing a degree, or did not receive the opportunity to go to college at a 'traditional' time. All hail online learning.

For thousands of students every year, online college degrees offer a chance to improve their lives, one keystroke at a time.

OK, so getting a bachelor's degree doesn't happen instantly, but you know that your educational investment is worth the effort. And, with the availability of online degree programs, which offer flexibility and convenience to round out your recommitment to that lifelong goal, saying you don't have the time isn't a viable excuse.

"I always knew I would have to finish my degree in order to move my career forward, but I wasn't quite sure how," says the project manager for IT Lab, an IT outsourcing company in London.

Watson is on to something when you consider that in 2002, average earnings for those with a bachelor's degree was $51,194, compared to $27,280 for high school graduates.

He'll keep plugging ahead on a part-time basis, and he hopes to finish his degree this November. "It feels good because I know that I'm finally moving forward again," he says. "My social life has definitely taken a hit, but it's worth it." Besides, Watson says he's able to fill some of the socializing void with the virtual friendships he's made through his classes.

"It's a perfect solution for people like me who want to finish their degree but can't commit to specific times due to travel or location issues."

This article provides quite a few good points, as well as motivation to 'go back' to school and get the degree you've always wanted. Be sure to check it out if you need some reassurance.

If you're already participating in an online program, what gave you the motivation to go for it?