Are Online Degrees Accepted by Employers?

One of the worries about getting an online degree has historically been that some employers may not consider them "authentic." However, this kind of thinking was only prevalent in the early days of online education programs. These days, a large percentage of students enroll in online programs, which has been a validating factor.

For example, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 29.8 percent of students took at least one online course, while 14.4 percent enrolled exclusively in online programs. Most employers in this day and age will consider an online degree just as valid as a degree from a more traditional college.

Reasons employers accept online degrees

The reputation of online degree programs has been improving significantly over the years. Even U.S. News recently published an article highlighting what employers thought about online degrees. The following are a few reasons why the majority of employers now accept online degrees:

• Well-respected universities offer online classes: Even some of the most respected universities in the world offer some of their courses online to students. It's not uncommon for students at such universities to mix traditional in-classroom courses with online courses. If some of the top universities are offering online courses, there's no reason to think that online degrees can't be just as valid.
• Accreditation proves the quality of the program: There are many online programs out there and some are more valid and respected than others. Fortunately, employers can easily tell which programs are legitimate by checking the accreditation of the program. When online programs are accredited, it means that an outside authority has ensured that the program has met a specific standard of quality.
• Certain skills can be learned online: While online programs don't work for every type of degree -- especially those that require hands-on training, it makes perfect sense for other types of degrees. For example, getting a degree for cyber security online makes complete sense since the subject matter is digital anyway.
• Employers understand the advantages of an online education: Many students simply are not able to attend traditional colleges due to life situations. For example, some students have a family to take care of or are working during the day to make ends meet. Online programs provide them with the flexibility they need to be able to keep up with their studies since they can do so from home at their own time. Punishing a job candidate because they pursued an online degree is unfair. In fact, many employers may commend candidates who took it upon themselves to pursue an online education even while working or raising a family.
• They respect the effort it takes to get an online degree: Many employers understand how difficult it can be to manage your time effectively and students who graduate with an online degree generally have a good idea of how to manage their time. Especially if they are working a full-time job, taking care of a family, or any other number of obligations. Time management is a skill that many employers want their workers to have.
• Online programs are often specialized: While a well-rounded education can be helpful as well, employers that are looking to fill specific job openings with highly skilled workers will appreciate the fact that many online programs are geared towards one specific subject. This is usually a good indicator that the job candidate knew exactly what they wanted to pursue and didn't just settle for a degree while attending a traditional four-year school because they weren't sure what they wanted.
• It's not always obvious that the degree is from an online program: There are too many traditional schools and online programs to keep track of. Many employers won't know if the degree you listed was from an online program or not. They may not even ask. In fact, they may not even care.
• They're more interested in other parts of your resume: If you got a degree from an accredited program, employers will usually assume that you have the basic knowledge needed for the position they are trying to fill. What they're usually more concerned about is your work history, your skill level, your intelligence, and your references.

Enrolling in an online program can be much more affordable and convenient, especially if you don't have the financial ability to live at a dorm, move close to the school or pay for regular transportation. Also, if your schedule simply isn't that flexible. Fortunately, obtaining an online degree is just as valid in most employers' eyes as getting a degree the more traditional way.

Are you ready to make your educational digital? If you want to earn a degree online, consider one of ECPI University's many 100% digital programs. With college such as business, criminal justice, technology, and computer and information science, there are plenty of areas are study to choose from. For more information, connect with a knowledgeable admissions advisor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make

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