Distance education is an age-old practice. With the development of technology, it’s become increasingly popular to earn a master’s degree online. According to the National Center for Education, the number of master’s degrees awarded between 2010 and 2021 increased by 19 percent.
Undoubtedly, getting a master’s degree is never easy. It can be considered more complicated if you already have a full-time job, a family, or other life responsibilities that limit your free time.
Luckily, there’s an option for pursuing higher education in a way that’s more adaptable and flexible for those with busy lives, which is online learning.
Let’s explore the types of degrees you can earn online.
What’s an online master’s degree?
An online master’s degree is a graduate degree that can be earned by distance learning. You can earn this degree at an in-person university offering specific online programs or a fully online college without any in-person experience.
Similarly, you can complete your coursework from home through virtual or asynchronous classes instead of relocating to an in-person program.
Increasingly, Students are choosing to pursue their master’s degree online.
According to an Urban Institute survey,31% of students enrolled in master’s programs in 2016 completed their degrees online.
This is because students pursuing master’s degrees are typically older, have full-time jobs, and need more flexibility.
Additionally, it is a good idea to explore colleges that offer online master’s degrees. Some online colleges for military personnel also offer degrees to active service members and veterans. These colleges understand the challenges faced by military personnel, like deployment schedules and frequent location changes.
Types of degrees you can earn online
Associate
You can earn an online degree in computer science or business administration with at least 60 credits.
- Degrees: Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts (AA),Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
- Popular majors:Liberal arts, general studies, humanities, health professions, business, homeland security.
- Average time:Two years full-time
- Requirements: High school diploma or GED
Bachelor’s
You can Earn your high school degree online, choosing from various majors to prepare for multiple career options or a specific industry or career. The program consists of 120 credits, including general education, central, and elective courses.
- Degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Science, Fine Arts, and Social Work
- Popular majors: Business, health, social sciences, history, psychology, biomedical sciences, engineering.
- Average time: 4-5 years full-time.
- Requirements: High school diploma or GED.
Master’s
Earn a master’s degree online to enhance bachelor’s knowledge or explore new career paths, with programs ranging from 30 to 72 credits.
For example, the best option for this type of distance study is a Master Of Education Degree(M.Ed.). This knowledge is ideal for teachers who want to advance their careers in particular fields.
- Degree Types: MA, MS, MBA, MPH, MSN, MCE, MSW.
- Popular programs: Business, education, health, engineering, public administration/social services.
- Average duration: 18 months to two years.
- Requirements: Bachelor’s degree.
Do companies accept online master’s degrees?
Both traditional and online degrees have equal weight. According to research, most companies don’t distinguish between the two kinds of degrees.
Is it possible to get a master’s degree online?
Yes, obtaining a master’s degree online is feasible. Online master’s degree programs are available from numerous respectable universities in various subjects.
Moreover, these programs offer flexibility and convenience to working professionals and those who cannot attend regular on-campus classes for various reasons.
Why do you want to earn an online Master’s Degree?
Here are some benefits of earning a high school degree online:
- Flexibility
- Accessibility
- Course Options
- Cost Effectiveness
- Networking Opportunities
Skills Development