In 2017, nearly 16% of all U.S. college students, which is about 3.1 million people, were studying at schools that only offer distance learning, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Over a third were at schools that offer a mix of online and in-person classes. Nowadays, when we talk about distance education, we’re usually talking about online education. Schools that only offer online education are often called online universities, and their programs are known as online degree programs.
But it’s not as simple as online versus in-person. Many colleges and universities, including big names like Harvard and Yale, offer a mix of online and in-person classes. Some traditional schools still focus on classroom learning, but others with physical campuses have fully embraced online degrees. For example, Southern New Hampshire University has about 20 online students for every one student on campus.
A lot of students who usually take classes on campus or commute are now taking a mix of online and in-person classes. The sudden shift to online learning during the pandemic is likely to have a lasting impact. So, when we talk about "online degree programs," we’re usually referring to programs where students never have to set foot in a classroom or lab.
Online degrees have some clear benefits. They offer more flexibility for students who are working or have kids, and they’re often cheaper, especially compared to four-year residential programs. This can help students avoid taking on too much student loan debt.
However, not all employers are fully on board with online degrees. While most recognize that online degrees are becoming more common, they might not be as accepting of them as traditional degrees. Students who want the widest range of job opportunities might prefer traditional education if it’s possible for them.
Choosing between an online degree and a traditional degree is a big decision with major implications for your career, finances, and lifestyle. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of going the online route.
Pros of an Online Degree:
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It might be cheaper than a residential program. Even though online degree programs at schools that offer both online and on-campus tracks are usually a bit more expensive, online programs at mostly or fully online schools like Southern New Hampshire University or the University of Phoenix are often significantly cheaper than on-campus programs at selective residential schools.
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It might be easier to manage while working full-time or raising kids. Traditional degree programs often require in-person attendance for things like exams and lab work, and they can be demanding in terms of time, especially for programs that involve a lot of lab work or small team projects.
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Many online degree programs are reputable. Some online degree programs are lacking in quality, but many are offered by selective public and private institutions with long histories of excellence.
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You don’t have to leave your house. This is a big advantage for people who prefer to stay home or have long commutes.
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Large online degree programs and institutions have big alumni networks. This can help you make connections that lead to job offers or contracts.
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Your employer might not know you got your degree online. Many traditional schools now offer online degrees that are indistinguishable from their on-campus degrees.
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It could earn you respect for your time management skills and focus. Balancing the demands of an online degree with your other responsibilities shows that you’re good at managing your time and staying focused.
Cons of an Online Degree:
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Some employers are still skeptical of online degrees. A 2019 study found that many employers still view online degrees as less valuable.
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Some employers are skeptical of for-profit degree programs. For-profit schools are often viewed less favorably, and they have higher student loan default rates.
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Unaccredited programs offer little value. Some for-profit schools are unaccredited "diploma mills" that offer low-quality education. Many employers won’t consider applicants with degrees from unaccredited schools.
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Online students drop out more often. Online students are more likely to drop out than students who live on or commute to campus.
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It could call your teamwork skills into question. Online degree programs often cater to solitary learners, which means fewer group projects and real-world learning opportunities.
In conclusion, with tuition costs rising and student debt becoming less sustainable, it’s worth considering whether college is the right choice for you. There are many high-paying jobs that don’t require a degree, and others that require little or no work experience. Not going to college isn’t a career death sentence.
On the other hand, completing a two- or four-year degree program, or even postgraduate or doctoral work, can significantly increase your lifetime income potential. If you’re worried about the cost or inflexibility of a traditional degree program but feel you need a degree to achieve your career goals, an online program could be a good fit for you. Just make sure to carefully vet each program and avoid unfavorable financing arrangements that could do more harm than good.
Are you considering an online degree program? What’s holding you back, if anything?
