An online master’s degree program can give you the flexibility to
continue your education during your own time and at your pace. But, how
do you know if online learning is the right choice? How do you choose a
school that will get respect in the workplace? And, is it possible to
convince your employer to fund your education? Read on.
Who Should Earn an Online Master’s Degree?
Before enrolling in an online graduate program, ask yourself two
questions: “Why do I want to earn this degree?” and “Will earning the
degree actually help be achieve that goal?” Do you want to earn the
degree to make more money, qualify for a new job, or simply have the
opportunity to learn? While undergraduate degrees are helpful in a
majority of workplaces, not everyone’s career can benefit from a
graduate degree. Some positions require a specific master’s degree or
offer substantial monetary incentives for graduate degrees. Other
positions do not consider graduate work a factor for granting promotions
or increasing salaries. Earning an online master’s degree requires a
considerable investment of time and money – make sure that the payoff is
worth it.
Online studies are best suited for students with organized and dedicated
personalities. Mid-career professionals are often successful in online
master’s programs. Potential students should be able to read and
understand advanced texts and be able to write at a college-level.
Students should be aware that most online graduate programs award grades
based on writing assignments, online reading discussions, and written
exams.
Online Master’s Degree Program Accreditation
Don’t be tricked by a “diploma mill” school. Degrees from unaccredited,
low-quality programs are almost always rejected by employers. Instead,
find a school that is
regionally accredited
from one of the six regional organizations. This will help ensure that
your degree is accepted by employers and that your transcripts are
accepted by other schools should you choose to transfer or pursue
additional studies. See also:
Check Any School’s Accreditation Status.
Alternatively, you may choose to enroll in an online master’s degree program accredited by the
Distance Education Training Council
(DETC). Although many employers accept degrees with DETC accreditation,
be aware that DETC accreditation is not as universally accepted nor as
highly regarded as regional accreditation.
What Else to Look for in an Online Master’s Degree Program
In addition to selecting a regionally accredited school, make sure that
your online master’s program provides the support you will need as a
student. Quality schools offer a competitive student to teacher ratio,
student mentors, and career placement services. See:
Choosing the School for You.
Types of Master’s Degrees
There are many different types of master’s degrees. The most common are the Master of Arts (MA) and the Master of Science (MS).
Master of Arts (MA) – This degree is awarded to students completing
studies in the Humanities, Social Sciences, Fine Arts, or in Theology.
Some MA programs are also designed for students intending to do
additional graduate work after graduation (i.e. earning a doctorate
degree). Typically, the degree takes two-years of full-time study and
requires a thesis or a comprehensive exam (or both).
Master of Science (MS) – This degree is granted to students completing
studies in the Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Business, and
Technology. Many (but not all) MS programs are designed to be
professional degrees for students entering the workforce instead of
pursuing additional studies. Typically, the degree takes two-years of
full-time study and requires a thesis or a comprehensive exam.
Other master’s degrees include: Master of Business Administration (MBA),
Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Education (MEd), Master of Health
Administration (MHA), Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Music
(MMus), Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and
additional specialized degrees.
Online Master’s Degree Residency Requirements
Many online graduate programs require students to clock a specified
number of “residency hours” attending lectures on school grounds.
No residency – Some online master’s programs can be completed without
setting foot on campus. Exams are typically taken under the care of a
proctor in your area.
Limited residency – Other master’s program require students to attend
weekend or week-long seminars at a physical campus. The limited-time
seminars are generally held during weekends or in the summer months.
Substantial residency – Some master’s online master’s programs require
students to spend an extended residency at the college campus. If you
enroll in one of these programs, you may be expected to spend a semester
or two in on-campus courses, even though your degree is technically
being earned online.
Paying for an Online Master’s Degree Program
Online master’s programs can be expensive. Paid teaching fellowships,
which are a staple of many traditional master’s programs, are not an
option for students who choose to learn online. However, many students
qualify for government subsidized
grants and loans. You may also want to search the web for private
scholarships.
If your master’s degree will help you in your current job, you may be
able to convince your employer to pay for part or all of your education.
Ask your employer if there are any educational funding programs in
place. If not, ask for a meeting to explain how funding your degree will
benefit the company.
Earning a graduate degree through the internet can be a challenge. But,
carefully choosing your school and master’s degree program can help you
make the most of your experience.
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