More and more students are opting to pursue their master's degree online, as online education offers a number of benefits that traditional in-person programs may not.
Online master's degree programs can be a game-changer for career advancement and flexibility, as they allow students to access high-quality education from anywhere, anytime, and at their own pace.
According to a 2018 study from the Urban Institute, 31 percent of students enrolled in master's programs in 2016 earned their degrees online. This trend is likely to continue, as online education becomes more accessible, affordable, and accepted by employers.
What are the benefits of an online master's degree?
Some of the benefits of doing an online master's degree include:
Flexibility: You can often complete your coursework at your own pace, which is excellent if you have a busy schedule. You can also choose from a variety of programs and courses that suit your interests and goals.
Convenience: With an online master's degree, you can study from anywhere you have an internet connection. You don't have to relocate, commute, or attend classes at fixed times. You can also access your course materials and resources anytime you need them.
Affordability: Many online programs are more affordable than traditional on-campus programs. You can save on tuition fees, transportation costs, accommodation expenses, and other related costs. You may also qualify for financial aid or scholarships to help you fund your education.
Customization: You can customize your degree to your professional objectives. You can choose from a wide range of majors, concentrations, electives, and specializations that match your career aspirations. You can also tailor your learning experience to your preferred style and pace.
Improved remote working skills: By studying online, you can improve your remote working skills, such as communication, collaboration, time management, self-discipline, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valued by employers in the digital age and can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Employers accept online degrees: Employers recognize the value and quality of online degrees, as long as they are from accredited and reputable institutions. Online degrees can demonstrate your commitment, motivation, and initiative to advance your education and career. They can also showcase your relevant knowledge and skills in your field of study.
Build your professional network and community: You can connect with peers, instructors, mentors, and alumni from diverse backgrounds and locations through online platforms and forums. You can also participate in virtual events, webinars, workshops, and projects that can enhance your learning and networking opportunities
Advance in your current career: You can advance in your current career by earning an online master's degree. You can gain new skills, knowledge, credentials, and confidence that can help you perform better at your job, seek promotions or raises, or switch to a different role or industry
Online master's degree programs can be a game-changer for career advancement and flexibility. They can provide you with a high-quality education that is flexible, convenient, affordable, customizable, and recognized by employers. They can also help you improve your remote working skills, build your professional network and community, and advance in your current career.
If you are interested in pursuing an online master's degree program, you can explore various options on Coursera, a leading online learning platform that partners with top universities and organizations to offer online degrees in various fields.
How do I choose an accredited online program?
Choosing an accredited online program is an important step to ensure the quality and credibility of your education. Accreditation is a process of external review that evaluates the academic standards and outcomes of an institution or a program. Accreditation can also affect your eligibility for financial aid, credit transfer, and employer recognition.
Here are some tips on how to choose an accredited online program.
Check the accreditation status of the school or program. When choosing an online degree program, prospective students should ensure the school is accredited by an organization recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the nonprofit Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
These organizations monitor programs and schools and renew their accreditation every few years. You can search for accredited schools and programs on their websites: https://www.ed.gov/accreditation and https://www.chea.org/. You can also check the accreditation information on the school's website or contact the school directly.
Choose a reputable and reliable online school or program. Accreditation is not the only indicator of quality and reputation. You should also consider other factors such as the school's mission, vision, values, faculty, curriculum, resources, support services, student outcomes, alumni network, and employer feedback.
You can research these aspects by visiting the school's website, reading reviews and testimonials, contacting current or former students and instructors, and consulting ranking lists or guides from reputable sources such as U.S. News & World Report
Compare different online programs that suit your goals and interests. Once you have narrowed down your list of accredited online schools or programs, you should compare them based on your personal and professional objectives.
You should consider factors such as the degree level, major, concentration, specialization, course delivery, format, schedule, duration, cost, financial aid, admission requirements, graduation requirements, career outcomes, and accreditation status of each program. You can use online tools such as Coursera's degree finder to help you find and compare online programs from leading universities and organizations: https://www.coursera.org/degrees.
Choosing an accredited online program can help you achieve your educational and career goals with confidence and flexibility. By following these tips, you can find the best online program for you.
