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While online degree programs have grown exponentially in popularity over the past decade, there is still some speculation surrounding the acceptance of an online degree as opposed to a traditional degree earned at a brick and mortar institution.
Industry Some industries readily accept online degrees (A 2001 study conducted by Vault.com predicted approximately a 70% acceptance rate for Internet/New Media degrees obtained online). Technology, marketing, media and high tech industries are slowly getting on board and being more accepting of online degrees, but more specialized areas such as law and medicine are far less likely to do so. Before you begin an online degree program, research your chosen industry and see how accepting it is overall of these types of degrees. Company When it comes to online degrees vs traditional degrees, some companies just don't view online degrees as legitimate. While more companies are more accepting now of online degrees than ten years ago, there are still many companies that view traditional degrees as the only legitimate program. Field of Study Knowledge based degree programs, that is, majors that lean more in the direction of information technology and accounting seem to be more widely accepted. Level of Degree Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's or doctoral degrees do tend to carry more weight, depending on the type. For instance, an online Bachelor's degree seems to be viewed with some skepticism. It seems a large percentage of hiring managers view online Bachelor's degrees as acceptable, but less credible, but more view it as acceptable than those who don't. Interestingly, graduate degrees obtained online are often viewed as just as credible as traditional ones. The School With so many degree mills out there, many employers are a little gun shy, and with good reason. There are many schools out there that are not legitimate and employers must be careful. They may balk at a school because they are not familiar with it. The best thing that you can do is get a degree from a distance learning school that is accredited and very well established, or enroll in the distance learning program of a traditional university that is well known. The negative impression of online degrees vs traditional degrees decreases when you're dealing with a well-regarded online entity. The Hiring Manager Personal preference of the hiring manager also determines how well your online degree is accepted. Some managers place a strong emphasis on experience over education while others give more weight to a person's academic career and accomplishments. If you are just starting out, you will, of course, see more emphasis placed on your academic achievements and a degree from a recognized and widely accepted school will definitely swing things in your favor. Experience and Skills of the Degree Holder If you have experience, that experience, combined with your skills can give more weight to your online degree. Several things can work in your favor here such as if you worked full time while getting your degree online. Also, if you attended a traditional college as well as online studies to get your degree will also look good. But don't discount a degree obtained exclusively online. Many people are getting their degrees this way and more hiring managers are coming to accept them. In addition to the above, when considering online degrees vs traditional degrees, keep in mind the convenience, cost, time and other benefits that online degree programs offer. This just might help you make your decision when it comes to furthering your education. |