What Employers Think About Your Online Degree

The education landscape has dramatically transformed in the digital age, with online degrees becoming increasingly prevalent as more students turn to online education for its flexibility and accessibility.

A critical question arises: How do employers view online degrees? This question is particularly relevant as the job market becomes more competitive and education credentials play a significant role in hiring decisions.

We delve into ten key insights about what employers think about your online degree, from its acceptance and accreditation to the skills it reflects and its overall impact on your employability.

What Employers Think About Your Online Degree

1. Acceptance of Online Degrees Has Risen

Over the past decade, employers’ acceptance of online degrees has significantly increased. This is largely due to the rise in reputable institutions offering online programs and the growing number of graduates from these programs.

2. Overall, Employer Views Still Vary

While acceptance has grown, views on online degrees still vary among employers. Some may still hold traditional opinions favouring in-person education, while others are more open to the flexibility and accessibility of online learning.

3. Accreditation is Particularly Important

Employers often look for degrees from accredited institutions, whether online or traditional. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain academic standards, which can give employers confidence in the quality of your education.

4. Some Employers Prefer Nonprofit Over For-Profit Online Programs

There is a perception among some employers that nonprofit institutions offer more rigorous and credible programs than their for-profit counterparts. This perception can influence their view of your online degree.

5. They Value Competency-Based Learning

Competency-based learning, a common feature of online programs, is highly valued by many employers. This approach allows students to progress as they demonstrate mastery of a subject, indicating their ability to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world context.

6. They Won’t Instantly Know a Degree Was Earned Online

Usually, your diploma won’t indicate whether your degree was earned online or on campus. Unless you tell them, employers may not know your degree was made online.

7. They Might Wonder Why You Pursued a Degree Online

Some employers might be curious about why you chose to pursue your degree online. Be prepared to explain your reasons, whether they were due to flexibility, accessibility, or other factors.

8. Many Will Respect Your Time-Management Skills

Earning a degree online requires strong time-management skills. Many employers will respect the discipline and organization needed to complete an online program.

9. They Will Be Curious About Your Collaboration Skills

Online programs often involve collaborative projects and discussions. Employers may be interested in how you work with others remotely, as this is becoming an increasingly important skill in the modern workplace.

10. The BeOnline Degree is Just One Piece of the Puzzle

Remember, your degree is just one factor that employers consider. Your work experience, skills, and attitude can often be just as important, if not more so. An online degree can be a valuable asset, but it’s not the only thing that will make you stand out to potential employers.

What employers think about your online degree.

• Acceptance of online degrees has risen.
• Overall, employer views still vary.
• Accreditation is particularly important.
• Some employers prefer nonprofit over for-profit online programs.
• They value competency-based learning.
• They won’t instantly know a degree was earned online.
• They might wonder why you pursued a degree online.
• Many will respect your time-management skills.
• They will be curious about your collaboration skills.
• The online degree is just one piece of the puzzle.