Online Degree?

Question

I am wanting to go back to school for a master's degree (I have already obtained my B.A. in Psychology) and am wondering if anyone had thoughts on online degree programs. I'm not sure if I would be getting as good of an education or if it looks as good to employers. Any personal experiences, suggestions, or thoughts?

My B.A. was not earned from an online program (if that is not clear enough) so this online stuff is completely new

Answer 1

Let me begin by offering this warning--BE VERY CAREFUL!! Yes, there are some online colleges that are legitimate; and there are others that are nothing more than degree mills. It is very important to recognize that all of these colleges are private institutions and are usually for-profit. That makes a huge difference when it comes time to validate your degree to either your employer or to another college.

There are several factors that you must consider. First, what exactly do you want to accomplish with your degree. If the answer is personal satisfaction or perhaps a raise or promotion at work, then online may be the way to go. However, if you are looking to advance yourself with a master's or doctorate degree, like I am doing, then online may not be a viable route. For example, there are at least three online law schools--none of which are accredited by the American Bar Association. Without ABA accreditation, you cannot practice in Florida, which is where I live. So, online is not a viable option for me.

Second are the cost considerations. Online schools are typically outrageously expensive. And there is no benefit to paying that additional fee.

If you are interested in obtaining your degree online, start with your state university. Most universities are facing a funding crisis that prohibits them from building additional classrooms. As a result, many have turned to online versions of their classes. They carry full college credit (make sure that they are regionally accredited) and the cost involved are quite reasonable--in some cases as low as $240 per credit hour. And they all offer financial aid that is almost 100% guaranteed (no felony drug convictions and must be registered for Selective Service if a male).

I would try this route first and see if it will allow you to achieve your goals. Good luck!!

Answer 2

I got mine through a reputable distance learning university. It was NTU and now is called Walden University. I found it because my former employer was promoting it (and they were a fortune 300 company!)

Anyway, whatever you do, make sure your distance learning university (whether it be online or otherwise) is accredited. If so, then go for it!

I would say that employers look at my Master's Degree as a true degree and don't have a problem with it. However, I've never heard of anyone getting a BS or BA online and it being considered acceptable. I'm sure times change though. But in your case, for a Master's degree, it is more acceptable.

Answer 3

I feel like online education is going to be the new wave in education. First off, alot of people with families and gruesome hourly jobs cannot sit down in a classroom anymore. Online degrees are gradually becoming acceptable to employers. Because it's hard sitting in a classroom for hours out of the week. You just simply don't have time. I am on the verge of starting school at Western Governors University...www.wgu.edu. and it is a nonprofit university and cheap, regionally and nationally accredited and entirely online...I say go for it.

Answer 4

As long as the online degree comes from an accredited college, there shouldn't be any problem. More info on accreditation can be found at http://distancelearningdegree.com

Answer 5

I don't recommend online degree program at all. It can be fake and it's hard to learn it that way. Just to to a college again. ^^

Answer 6

try USQ