Studying online is becoming increasingly popular across the country as students take advantage of its flexibility - as well as some wider benefits.

According to the Daily Californian, there has been a "surge" in enrolment for online classes nationwide.

Many students choose to study over the internet because technology such as webcasts allows them to learn from almost any location at their own pace and according to with their own schedule.

And, with fuel prices hitting $4 a gallon, the site said there can be broader economic advantages to studying via an internet connection.

USA Study Guide states a number of colleges offer online courses and some operate exclusively in this area.

Learning over the internet can involve the use of emails, texts hosted on the web, webcast seminars and online video, it adds.

A variety of qualifications can be studied for online, including bachelor's degrees, associate bachelor's degrees, master's degrees right up to PhDs.