Online education is becoming an increasingly popular way for students to earn degrees and start their careers. Despite the large numbers of undergraduate and graduate students who enroll in distance education programs each year, concerns still exist in regards to the effectiveness of online education. Before signing up for an online program, it is a good idea to do your homework and ensure that the online degree will be looked upon favorably by employers after graduation.
Educational Quality
When it comes to earning a degree, most employers are much more interested in where the degree was earned rather than whether the degree was earned online versus in a classroom. When selecting an online degree program, research the academic reputation of the institution and check its accrediting standards. The degree-granting institution you choose should be accredited by one of the regional accrediting agencies or national agency such as the Distance Education and Training Council.
Instructor Experience
In addition to researching schools and online programs, it is a good idea to read faculty profiles, look at their recent research and determine whether they are experienced teaching in a distance education environment. Teaching in a college classroom and teaching in an online classroom are very different and require a very different skill set. Instructors who are new to online teaching should have gone through a specialized teaching program or worked under the mentorship of an experienced online faculty member.
Institution Type
Although the stigma associated with online education is gradually diminishing, some employers are still hesitant to hire graduates of online programs. However, a 2010 study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that employers are most accepting of online degrees from accredited, public institutions. Private, nonprofit institutions also rate relatively well, while for-profit institutions garner the most criticism, especially those that are online only. Although many individuals have graduated from for-profit institutions and found employment, the research indicates that graduates from public, nonprofit institutions will fair even better during their postgraduation job search.
Academic Support
The academic support of the institution is almost just as important as the quality of the educational program. Even at a distance, students should have access to career services representatives, internship opportunities and networking forums. These types of services gives students essential work experience and access to potential job leads that they wouldn't otherwise have. Internships and externships are particularly important, as they give students valuable work experience that will make them more appealing to employers after graduation.
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