Online Masters?

Question

I'm planning to do a online M.ed.

I came across two online Universities, both regionally accredited so they are real degrees.

One is 'Jones International U' and the other is 'U of Phoenix'.


I've heard a lot of good news about U of P and its reputation in the online degree business, however after reading the course info of both courses, I think the Jones one is better for me (1. its more specialized and it whats I want to learn 2. I think it is cheaper)

Has anyone any experience or comments on Jones?

I not really studying the M.ed for a career path, but it may come in handy later on ... maybe go for the U of P?

Answer 1

You've heard good things about the University of Phoenix? Really?

Is one of the things that you heard that they just paid a $9.8MM fine for shady employment practices? Is one of the things that you heard that they are currently under investigation for padding their job placement numbers?

Both "universities" are For Profit Corporations (in case you don't know -- almost all universities are non-profit). Most employers do not take For Profit universities seriously -- and most do not take On-Line degrees seriously. Therefore, it is unlikely that a master's degree from either school will do much for you.

Looking at their numbers, U of P accepts 91% of those who apply. Jones International accepts 100%. I can't imagine why U of P turns down anyone -- perhaps it is because they can't pay.

At any rate -- even if you could learn something at these schools -- the lack of selectivity, the on-line nature of the classes and the fact that these schools exist to make a profit will mean that no one will take a degree from these schools seriously.

Answer 2

I can comfortably recommend neither U Phoenix nor Jones U. Neither have good reputations amongst employers. You may certainly get a good education there, if you have the drive, but since you think it may come in handy later on for a career, then I strongly suggest you look at some other options.

There are some reputable schools that also offer degrees online. If you must do your degree online, please look at the programs at:

University of Massachusetts at Amherst
University of Denver
University of Maryland
Duke University
Drexel
Carnegie Mellon
Penn State
Ball State
U Nebraska - Lincoln
University of Illinois
U Indiana
U Iowa
Dominican University (does offer teaching)
University of Scranton (does offer teaching)
Columbia U
New York U

These are good schools which offer programs online. You'll have to check their websites to see if teaching is among them. Good luck!

Answer 3

I have heard good things about U of P but there are a number of public universities that are offering on line opportunities also. Many are nationally accredited and don't give the appearance of "buying the degree". NC State University, East Carolina University are two in my area. ECU's strong points are education, nursing, and medical school. They were East Carolina Teachers College in the early 1900's.