Is an online degree the same as one you get from attending a traditional University?

Question

I wanted to get my degree online, namely from http://www.drexel.com . I searched http://www.chea.org , and did find their university listed as http://www.drexel.edu (which led to the .com link). It says it is accredited by http://www.abet.org , of which I did not find listed as a diploma mill. Is this a safe way for me to get my 4 year degree and does it hold as much 'weight' than if I was to get my degree from my current university (University of Nevada Reno). I am going for my BS in Electrical Engineering. Thank you so much in advance.

Answer 1

You need to double check on that .com thing. It could be a scam on Drexel; meaning some genius decided to make money off of a credible organization. This happens. Go to the web address found at CHEA. I am glad and surprised you visited them because many people just believe the info on the school website and you should always double check. I would strongly recommend you stay within the 6 major accrediting bodies in the US (see CHEA link below).

As far as deciding which school to go to, review your goals, personal and professional. Make sure that the school that you are going to offers the programs that match your goals. Do not settle. There are many programs that are similar, but you have to make the ultimate decision. Do not let be based on finances and length of program, but the fact that when you are finished or near finished you will be able to assume your proper place in the career field sought.

Also, if you know where you want a job or what kind of job you would like, contact some of their Human Resources people. They will be the best people to answer the question on the degrees accepted. Most places, as long as it is accredited, they will accept equally for the minimum requirement. Now, the question is, will you be competing against someone from a big name school, UCLA, Duke, etc? Then, there is no question they will get more attention, not necessarily the job, but attention.

You should market yourself and not the degree or university. There are many traditional universities offering degrees that can be earned through online methods. Look at that if you are truly concerned with the name of the school. Good luck on your search!

Answer 2

I'd recommend that you call the admissions office at Drexel University (drexel.edu) and make sure that drexel.com is really part of their school. Also make sure that the degree you get is from "Drexel University", just like everyone else's there, and not from "Drexel.com"

Drexel University has a well respected engineering school.

If you like Drexel, you may also like Carnegie Mellon. CM also offers degrees online.

Answer 3

depends on where you want to work. most employers want a degree question to be answered yes. do they check? no!
government or companies that have government contracts, MAY check credentials. how many companies verify your high school diploma.