As the number of online CEU providers increases, it is becoming more important for consumers to be familiar with what they want and need. Obviously you want to find a site that provides courses that meet your needs. The second question to ask is whether the continuing education course fee includes the textbook or a link to the online version of the text. Third, know what kind of learner you are and what you need from a provider. If you enjoy watching videos with powerpoints or just prefer to read a text and take a test. Several providers offer at-home self study in which you just read the text and take an online test. All CEUs provides a course review video to accompany the text in most cases. The cost per credit runs from less than $1 at all CEUs to around $8-$15 per credit hour at places like Laban trainings and Fast CEUs.
Other things to consider is whether the provider offers instant certificates. (Many of us wait until the last minute to get our CEUs). Does the provider have an ala carte option so you can get just that one three credit course you need? Is the provider accepted in your state?
Also, does the provider offer a certificate or certification program? These programs are often more expensive (anywhere from $3 at allceus to $20 at some other providers), but they are more like your traditional course with a video, practical assignments to help you intergate the new knowledge, an instructor that provides feedback and holds office hours and one or more exams. AddictionsCertification.com will be adding certifications in Dual Disorders Counseling and Parent Education Training beginning in January of 2010. The cost will be $3 per credit hour for instructor led courses.
