In-Person vs. Online PDH Courses: Which is Right For You?

Being an engineer involves many decisions, not the least of which is whether to take in-person or online PDH courses.

PDH, or Professional Development Hours, are a mainstay of the field, with quite a bit of variety regarding where and how you go about the process. So, how do you choose? Below, we’re sharing a quick guide to in-person versus online courses for your Professional Development Hours, including the basics of each option and what you should consider before deciding which way to go.

Professional Development Hours for Engineers: Online vs. In-Person Courses

There are two main approaches to Professional Development Hours for engineers: in-person courses and online courses.

Aside from the obvious difference in where these courses take place (in a physical location vs. on a computer), there are several other notable factors you should be aware of as you go about choosing a PDH program.

• Convenience: Online courses can be completed from anywhere and often at any time, making them more convenient than in-person courses with a set schedule and location.

• Interaction: You’ll usually get more interaction in an in-person PDH course, since you’re in the classroom with other engineers and likely given more hands-on coursework.

• Accreditation: Both online and in-person courses can and should be accredited by your state board of engineering, a necessary signifier of a high-quality PDH program.

• Cost: Opting to complete continuing education for engineering online instead of in-person is the more affordable option since it eliminates the need to travel and take time off work for an in-person course.

Ultimately, online courses tend to be more flexible and cost-efficient than in-person courses, and can be completed around your schedule – a big win for busy engineers. Meanwhile, in-person courses offer increased interactivity and the ability for peer-to-peer networking, both of which provide benefits to those who prefer hands-on learning and the ability to study alongside other engineers.

How to Decide Between In-Person or Online PDH Courses for Engineers

Whether you should pursue continuing education for engineering online or in-person comes down to your personal preferences – particularly those around your learning style, schedule, budget, and professional goals.

Some questions that you can ask to narrow down your choice include:

• Do I prefer learning on my own or in a group?
• Do I work better in a structured or unstructured course environment?
• Is there room in my budget and schedule for travel?
• Am I looking to use this course as a network opportunity in addition to a learning opportunity?
• Are in-person courses accessible in my area?

You should also evaluate an individual course closely before signing up, regardless of which way you go. Does the course align with your professional goals and licensing requirements? Is it accredited? In-person or online, PDH courses are an investment in your career and future, so making sure you’re enrolling in a high-quality program should always be a top priority.

There is a cost-benefit analysis to be done with any type of continuing education course, engineering or otherwise. Use the practical guidance above to choose the best path forward, and make sure that you get your time and money’s worth when it comes to your Professional Development Hours.

At PDH Pro, we’ve got your online continuing education needs covered. Check out our online courses, save big with our bundled state packages, and please contact us if you’d like more information.