It may be nerve-wracking to decide whether or not to obtain an online master’s degree. The resounding concern that most potential students have is are online master’s degrees respected?

As technology continues to advance, more employers have opened their eyes to the new ways their employees can receive an education. Many of these employers are actively assisting their employees in enrolling in these programs to better both their companies and their employees. So, what makes an online master’s degree respectable?

Accreditation

The first notation that many people believe when considering an online master’s degree is that they are not respected as they are not accredited by an agency. This is absolutely wrong. While not all online higher education institutions are accredited by a recognized agency, more are.

When looking for an online university, look for its accreditation page. When reviewing the information, do a quick search to see if CHEA has the university or college on its list. If the institution is on CHEA’s list, then they are indeed accredited and a great choice for an online master’s degree program.

Adaptation

Employers who see an application that includes an online master’s degree automatically know that the candidate is adaptable. Online master’s degree programs do not offer an in-class component, so most information is provided online, through a portal, or through word of mouth from the professor via video. 

Students must adapt to ensure they acquire the content through the necessary resources to succeed. Adaptability is an impressive trait that managers look for when hiring new employees.

Time Management

Another reason why online master’s degrees are respected, especially by employers, is because it proves the candidate has the ability to manage their time. Students who choose to enroll in an online master’s degree program work hard to meet strict deadlines and select courses based on their regular, everyday schedules. Individuals who hold a job or care for a family while taking these courses have even more time management skills, which are very valuable in the workforce.

Ability To Work Independently

Employers who see candidates apply with a master’s degree know that the potential candidate can work independently. This skill is largely learned by the student through the online learning process because most online courses rely on the student’s ability to work and study independently, as opposed to an on-campus style course that facilitates extra workshops, tutoring, peer-to-peer assistance, or office hours.

Problem-Solving

Students that obtain an online master’s degree are likely to have great problem-solving skills. This is essential when looking for employment, as many employer value this skill when making employee selections.

Online courses require a lot of problem-solving due to the independent learning nature of the course. These skills are further honed through online lectures and projects that provide little extra guidance.

Online Master’s Degrees Are Respectable

Overall, the outlook on online master’s degrees is that they are respected by employers, universities, and peers alike. These degrees have the same weight as an on-campus degree but provide unique skills to the student who earns the degree.