Is an Online Degree Worthwhile?

Online degrees offer the convenience of studying from anywhere, on your own time. However, employers often see them as less valuable than a “real” degree. In the past, many online degrees were from for-profit colleges and not fully-accredited. Now, top-level universities offer online degree programmes as well. Still, the stigma remains although it may not be justified.

After the pandemic, however, online learning has become a necessity for most students. Universities around the world have made the transition to online teaching and learning. The classes contain the same content and the same quality of teaching as in-person classes. Even courses such as lab classes are doing better at replicating the hands-on experience and collaboration with other students virtually.

In addition to the current students studying online, people with more free time due to lockdown have also been motivated to enrol in online degrees. An online diploma or degree can add to your employment qualifications or lead to a career transition. It offers flexibility of time and location. It's also an option to consider for those on a tight budget. Accommodation fees and even general costs of living are high in cities and towns where top universities are located. Studying virtually lowers these living costs.

Of course, many students look forward to the experience of living on or near the campus. University students make lifelong friends and connections, and the discussions that they have both inside and outside of class can't quite be replicated online. But if you don't mind missing this experience, an equally high quality of education online is in reach.