Courses in building maintenance can help students gain the desirable skills in building construction and management that can be applied to a wide range of fields, including commercial construction, transportation, and the gas and oil industry. Environmental impact and sustainability may also be emphasized.

Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.

Online or distance learning refers to the use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. With online learning, one can access education at any time and from any location with an available internet connection.