Many high school students seek out online learning simply as a way to fit core credits into busy schedules or take a course their school doesn’t offer. But once they’ve had a chance to experience what online learning has to offer, many students become hooked on the format.
Online courses allow learners to study wherever and whenever they prefer, at their own pace, and with the support of knowledgeable, engaging instructors. Online learning also provides students with access to a wider range of courses, including Advanced Placement® courses that are eligible for college credit.
While every student is different, online learners tend to have high levels of success with the virtual format. For instance, VHS Learning students consistently excel in our program: Students enrolled in VHS Learning’s standard level online courses in 2024 had an average course pass rate of 92%.
The skills that help students succeed in their online courses––self-efficacy, time management, computer literacy, and adaptability––are also beneficial when students move on to college and careers. Students can leverage these competencies to find meaningful career pathways that align with their values, interests, and strengths.
Here are five other features of online learning that help prepare students for college and careers:
Online learning uses a variety of methods to teach students course content, but most of the learning is independently driven and immersive, rather than lecture-based. In online courses, students learn primarily through reading, hands-on projects, and exploring visuals and media. If teachers choose to lecture, they typically share presentations with meaningful visual aids. Plus, students can pause recorded lectures as needed to ensure they’re truly learning the material.
This approach reflects the learning process most students will encounter in college: broad lectures with assigned readings and projects to deepen knowledge. Online learning also helps students practice independence and time management––skills that will take them beyond college and into their careers.
When students seek out online learning opportunities, they are typically driven to expand and accelerate their education. Students who commit to their online courses are often able to get ahead of their peers, taking higher level courses and receiving college credit while still in high school by taking AP® courses and exams. In 2024, the average AP® exam scores of VHS Learning students matched the average global pass rate of 66%, and students in 16 out of 29 of VHS Learning’s AP® courses exceeded the average global pass rates for the same courses.
Taking courses online offers a unique opportunity for students to expand their academic and professional skills. Students are able to develop their writing and reading, communication, and self-management, which are important skills for college and the workplace.
With VHS Learning’s high-quality coursework and instruction from qualified teachers, students gain knowledge and skills that prepare them for their future courses. Instructor feedback, regular office hours, and peer collaboration further enhance the educational experience, providing a safe and constructive environment for students to build lifelong skills.
In many ways, online learning goes beyond classroom learning. VHS Learning’s online course catalog instantly expands students’ learning opportunities, allowing them to explore future career opportunities, engage with their passions, or take more advanced courses.
Additionally, many students have noted that their online learning experience is more rigorous and comprehensive than their in-person courses, reflecting the higher-level content they will encounter in college. But the added challenge is just the right amount to keep learners engaged––online courses are always right at students’ fingertips when they need to review a lesson, get teacher support, or dive deeper into a topic.
When students choose online learning, they gain a significant amount of control over their learning experience. Learners are able to choose from a wider range of courses, including specialized topics that their school doesn’t offer. They also can make more choices about their time and method of learning, which gives them autonomy but also enhances their self-efficacy.
Online learning provides flexibility in students’ schedules, allowing them to make the most of their time. Not having to always operate on someone else’s schedule gives students the freedom to enjoy other activities and interests, creating a balance with their academic priorities.
When students are in high school, they can’t predict where their lives will take them, but rich learning opportunities can help guide them in the right direction. Online learning is a valuable experience for students, providing them with lifelong knowledge and skills that will help them when they graduate, no matter what they choose to do.
VHS Learning can expand your course catalog and open doors for students to explore future college majors and careers. Register for Fall 2025 online courses today!