Is An Online Master's Degree Program Right For Me?  

/

Master’s degree programs are no longer limited to attendance at a college’s physical campus. In fact, some of the best degrees are being offered as online masters programs.

The Benefits Of An Online Master’s Degree Program

An online master’s program makes it possible for students to earn a degree from the school of their choice without having to relocate. It also makes it easier to find the right program that matches your career goals.

One of the huge benefits of an online program is flexibility. You can finish your degree typically in the same amount of time as a traditional curriculum. In some cases, you may even be able to accelerate your learning or take a little more time if you so desire. Many students complete their degrees while continuing to work either part-time or full-time.

Just like a traditional degree, there are financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and federal student loans. If you are attending an accredited online university, there may also be tuition assistance available from some employers.

While there are no guarantees, a master’s degree generally translates into higher pay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with master’s degrees earn a median income of $1,545 per week compared to someone with a bachelor’s degree ($1,305 per week) or a high school diploma ($781 per week). Those with master’s degrees also have significantly lower unemployment rates.

Data from the Federal Reserve showed that high school graduates had twice the rate of unemployment as those with master’s degrees.

Is Online Learning Right For Me?

To figure out whether online learning is right for you, you will need to think about the type of student you are. For example, online learning takes more discipline and self-motivation than traditional learning. You will be working independently and much of the work will take place outside of the typical classroom or in a virtual classroom setting.

You won’t have teachers or fellow students pushing you to get work done. It’s up to you. This can be tough, especially if you’re trying to earn a degree while continuing to work.

You will also need to be comfortable using technology and computer software and have a strong internet connection. And, you’ll need a quiet place to work, which can also be difficult with so many potential distractions if you’re attending school at home.

Still, more people than ever before are choosing to obtain a master’s degree online. It provides access to top-quality schools and can significantly reduce the expense of moving or living on or near campus to complete your studies.

Do Employers Value Online Master’s Degrees?

Research from the Center for the Future of Higher Education and Talent Strategy found little difference in how employers viewed online vs. traditional degrees.

There’s no stigma attached to an online degree since major colleges and universities are offering them now. Also, the COVID pandemic accelerated online learning and made it mainstream.

In many cases, online degrees can even be seen as an advantage. For example, if you’ve managed to hold down a job and taken online classes to improve your skills or carve out a different career path, employers may appreciate the extra effort you put forth and recognize your commitment to learning.

You should make sure any online program you sign up for is from a regionally accredited college. It should typically include accreditation from one of these agencies:

  • High Learning Commission (HLC)

  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Colleges (SACSCOC)

  • New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

  • Middle State Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

  • WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NCCU)

Accreditation validates the learning experience and will be looked upon more favourably by potential employers. Accreditation ensures that schools meet high academic standards and prepare you for future work the same way a traditional program would.

What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Are Available?

You can pursue a master’s degree online in a wide variety of areas. The top 10 most requested online masters degrees include:

  • Master of Business Administration

  • Master of Arts in Psychology

  • Master of Science in Criminal Justice

  • Master of Arts in Health Care Administration

  • Master of Arts in Education

  • Master of Human Resources Management

  • Master of Information Systems Management

  • Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education Leadership

  • Master of Arts in Special Education

  • Master of Arts in Organizational Management

These are just a few of the online master’s degree programs being offered by top schools.