Once you've decided that online learning is the right choice for your lifestyle, it's time to find the perfect (or almost perfect) online degree program. There are so many online colleges available, it can be a challenge to know where to look. One option is to buy or borrow a book that lists virtual programs (Bear's Guides are packed with helpful information).

Another choice is to check out some of the online databases. There are dozens of sites that link to online colleges and provide additional information. DegreeInfo's discussion forum has a useful thread that lists many of the most popular online college databases. Whatever database you use, be sure to maintain some level of skepticism. Many private databases make their money by charging online schools for listings - a positive listing may not be impartial.

A few sites, such as my About.com list of online school profiles, do not accept money for school inclusion. This allows the writer to provide unbiased information.