When considering educational options, there are two main choices – you can go to a traditional campus college, or you can opt to get your degree online. Some people still shy away from online universities, thinking that their degree will be less legitimate or employers won’t consider them in today’s competitive job market, but that’s simply not true. Today’s online degree programs are a far cry from the somewhat lacking online classes of the past, and many students have actually reported that they feel their education is of a higher quality than it would have been at a traditional university.

Still aren’t convinced? Here are just five of the many advantages to online universities that you may have not considered:

• The level of anonymity makes it easier to participate.

Many students feel shy when it comes to class participation, which is essential for a quality education. It can be nerve-wracking to speak up in a class, especially if you’re giving your opinion, not just answering an objective question about the work. Online, there’s a certain level of anonymity, which can really help you come out of your shell. In an online classroom, it is much easier to ask questions as well, so you’ll understand the material better.

• You’ll have access to the best professors.

When you go to a campus college, you’re limited to working with professors who live in your area. While most colleges are home to amazing professors in at least a few fields, an online campus isn’t limited by location. So, if the best teacher for introduction to anatomy lives in New Mexico and the best teacher for biology lives in South Carolina, you can have access to them both. With every class, there’s the potential for the best professors. In addition, you’ll be able to access the top guest lecturers from around the world, since there are no location limitations.

• You can work at your own pace.

Most schools advertise the fact that you can work on your own schedule, even in your pajamas, but it isn’t just about scheduling school before the kids wake up or after you come home from your day job. At an online university, you have more flexibility to work at your own pace. So, even if you can only devote a limited amount of time to your schoolwork, you can still get your degree.

• Professors are easier to contact.

With a traditional college, most professors have office hours during which time they are available to answer your questions. If you aren’t available during those hours, however, you might be out of luck, since some professors don’t check their email often. Professors at online colleges will contact you almost exclusively via email, which means that you can ask your question any time day or night, and they’ll get back to you as soon as they can. Your schedules don’t have to coincide perfectly for you to get help with the material.

• Online programs are often less expensive.

With a campus college, your tuition doesn’t just cover the expense of going to class. You’re also paying for access to classrooms, a library, and other facilities that aren’t a part of online universities. Server space costs a lot less than actual buildings, and that savings will be passed on to you, so saving for college is easier.