Getting a Degree Online

In a tough job market, having a degree is practically mandatory, but you don’t have to go to college anymore to get one. These days, you can have college come to you and get your degree online.

Online universities and colleges offer a number of advantages over traditional “brick and mortar” schools, particularly in accessibility, flexibility and convenience. One of the major drawbacks, however, is their perception. Many employers are dubious about the education online schools offer because the concept of obtaining a degree online is relatively new. That’s why accreditation is so important.

Accreditation is a process in which an independent agency validates that a university performs according to established standards. Accreditation is usually a peer-review process conducted by faculty from other accredited institutions. During this process, a school’s mission, resources, admissions requirements, support services, educational offerings and faculty among other things are scrutinized.

When an online college or university is accredited, that adds weight and value to the degrees that it grants. Not all accrediting agencies are above board, however. When researching an “accredited” online school, make sure that if it is accrediting agency is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Just because an online school isn’t accredited, doesn’t mean it is without merit, but accreditation goes a long way towards substantiating online degrees in traditional disciplines like business.

Respect for online degrees is growing, but there is still a major discrepancy between the perception of online degrees and traditional degrees. In a 2008 Vault.com study, only 23% of respondents thought an online Bachelor’s degree was as credible as and offline degree. This gap in perception can make it more difficult for graduates of online degrees to compete in the job market.  Many online schools offer career counseling and job placement services to help bridge this gap.