Many traditional college administrators are concerned that the difficult economic times in which we find ourselves will result in shrinking enrollments.

Postsecondary career school, trade school, and technical school administrators have the same concern.

Meanwhile, online college and online university enrollment managers have no such worries. For the most part, they are seeing dramatic enrollment increases. Here are five reasons why.

1. Students taking online courses do not have to move. They can stay right where they are and take classes from an online college or online university anywhere in the world.

2. If someone in a student's family gets a great job offer 200 miles away or if they want to move to a rural location, there's no problem. The just need to pack their computer and their online education will not be interrupted at all.

3. students enrolled in campus-based programs are required to attend classes at specified times, times which may not always be convenient for busy adults. Students taking online courses can complete their assignments whenever it is convenient for them.

4. Students can begin an online degree whenever they choose. Almost all online universities will let students start taking classes immediately.

5. Online college degree programs save students the time and trouble of commuting.

All of us should continue our education. Higher education, in particular, can help us achieve personal growth, improve our career mobility, and increase our earnings. And now, online education gives all of us the chance to enjoy those benefits.