I'm looking for a change, and I feel gemology is something I can become truly passionate about. I have been seriously researching programs, and it seems in the US at least if it isn't GIA it won't be accepted.
My biggest issue is location. I am in the Philadelphia suburbs, am married, work full time, have a dog, own a house, etc etc.
If I were to do the full time NYC GG program it would be extremely tough on my family, and borderline impossible. If need be I could move there alone for 6 months, but that's not exactly optimal.
The reason of this post is has anyone here taken the distance learning course?
I have the discipline (taught myself code), what I am really concerned about is education quality.
Will a distance student graduate with the same confidence and skill/knowledge set as an on campus grad? Do you get enough networking in the lab sessions on campus as a student would living on campus (from what I can tell this industry is all connections)?
Affordability and convenience wise distance education would be perfect for me, but I want to make sure if I make this decision it will prepare me the best for the field?
Post subject: Re: GIA Distance learning assistance
Posted: Thu Dec 17, 2015 1:00 pm
Valued Contributor
Joined: Tue Apr 30, 2013 1:41 pm Posts: 172
From the information you posted, it sounds like the distance Ed program is the best option for you. The course content is the same for both residence and distance programs. The only exception are the practical requirements. In residence, students identify ~1700 stones and for distance is is about 500 I think. Both options will give you a solid foundation to build a career on. The confidence that one graduates either program is largely dependent on the effort the individual puts forth. I hope that helps.
_________________ Professional Gemologist and Microscopist
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