There is no denying that distance learning is taking the education world by storm. More and more employers and universities are accepting and recognising online degrees, as well as various certifications and qualifications acquired through digital platforms.
The online education phenomenon continues to grow exponentially, with institutions and platforms such as Coursera, edX, University of the People, and SNHU leading the way in delivering quality, accredited online education.
In this post, we present five key facts about online degrees that every student should know.
1. Online Degrees Are Effective
Contrary to a commonly held notion about the perceived poor quality of online education, research has proved that online degree programs are effective. Over the years more and more institutions have learnt to trust the validity and depth of online degrees.
Much of the quality of online education comes from certain pros of student-centered education. Online education empowers students to be active participants in the learning process unlike in conventional learning models where students are passive recipients of knowledge.
This and other factors yield quality education thrusts in the cyber landscape. Because of the foregoing, more employers and universities — including those offering programmes through edX, Coursera, and Capella University — are accepting online degrees.
2. Online Degrees Come in Various Learning Styles
Who said the cyber education thrust is not dynamic? The object of distance education or eLearning is to enable affordable and convenient access to education.
As such, many players in the online education landscape have devised various learning packages and models so that students can choose learning styles that suit their preferences.
Some learning models are packaged for students that prefer complete autonomy while other packages keep the learners on track using various media such as videos and audios, etc.
Platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Teachable, and Skillshare support a range of formats — from self-paced, video-rich courses to guided, instructor-led programmes that help learners stay motivated.
3. The Regulatory Bodies Ensure That Online Degrees Are Credible and Authentic
It is only logical to be worried about the legitimacy of degrees offered online. Such concerns are not without basis considering the number of bogus institutions that claim to offer credible online degrees.
The good news is that the regulatory environment keeps up to speed with requirements for new legislation to help ensure the credibility and authenticity of online degrees.
The College Opportunity and Affordability Act of 2008 imposes a requirement that online colleges that get federal funds must verify that the student registered for the course is the actual person completing the course.
In 2025, this requirement is reinforced through modern verification systems including remote proctoring, identity verification tools, and learning analytics.
Students are encouraged to enrol in institutions that are accredited by recognised bodies such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or equivalent regional authorities.
4. You Can Get Online Degrees at Any Level
The distance education landscape has come of age. The global footprint of the phenomenon means that tertiary institutions can tap from the competitiveness of the industry and adopt best practices so that they can achieve their goals.
Tertiary institutions offer online degrees at all levels. You can get qualifications right from certifications, diplomas through to bachelor‘s degrees, master’s degrees as well as doctoral degrees.
With various companies and organisations offering scholarships for online degrees, only the sky’s the limit.
Degrees You Can Get Online That Pay Well
Online degrees in fields such as computer science, nursing, information technology, business analytics, and cybersecurity are among the most lucrative in today’s job market. Programmes from institutions like Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), Walden University, Capella University, and Coursera’s university partners offer specialised degrees that align with industry demand — meaning higher ROI for learners.
What Is the Highest-Paying Online Degree?
While it varies by industry, online degrees in software engineering, nursing practice (MSN), data science, and MBA specialisations consistently rank among the highest-paying.
According to recent market data, online graduates in tech and healthcare can earn upwards of $90,000 to $120,000 per year depending on specialisation and experience. Many of these programmes are available entirely online through institutions like edX, Udacity, and University of the People — at significantly lower cost than traditional on-campus degrees.
5. It’s Not Only Private Institutions That Offer Online Degrees
Many people think that the distance education phenomenon is driven exclusively by private entities.
Fact is, both private and public institutions do offer online degrees. More and more public schools are joining the bandwagon of eLearning in the bid to make access to education convenient, affordable, and accessible to a wider pool of those that can benefit from internet-based education systems.
Notably, public universities across the world now offer online degrees in collaboration with digital learning platforms. For instance, edX partners with MIT, Harvard, and state universities in the U.S. to offer fully accredited degree programmes online.
Similarly, FutureLearn works with top UK and international public institutions to provide access to open learning, and many universities — including University of Phoenix and SNHU — have fully digitised learning portals designed for working adults and global learners.
Facts About Online Learning Disadvantages
While online degrees offer flexibility and accessibility, they come with some notable disadvantages some of them are listed below:
- Limited face-to-face interaction: Less networking and spontaneous discussions.
- Self-discipline required: Procrastination can derail progress without structured schedules.
- Tech dependency: Unstable internet or outdated devices may disrupt learning.
- Perception gaps: Some employers still favor traditional degrees (though this is fading).
- Hands-on limitations: Labs, clinicals, or performance-based fields may require hybrid options.
What Is the Biggest Disadvantage of Online Learning?
The lack of in-person engagement tops the list. Unlike campus settings, online learning misses:
- Real-time debates – Discussions are often asynchronous (forum posts vs. live debates).
- Networking ease – Building mentor/peer relationships takes more effort digitally.
- Campus resources – Libraries, labs, and career fairs may be less accessible.
- But there’s a fix: Many programs now include live sessions, virtual networking events, and alumni groups to bridge the gap.
How to Tackle Online Degree Challenges
While online education has its hurdles, taking up proactive strategies can help you to thrive as a student.
To succeed as online student, you need to set up do the following:
- Set a structured schedule (use tools like Google Calendar or Trello)
- Engage actively in discussion forums to mimic classroom interaction
- Choose programs with live sessions or hybrid options for hands-on fields
- Leverage virtual networking (LinkedIn groups, alumni events).
Many employers now recognize accredited online degrees—highlighting skills and self-discipline gained can turn perceived weaknesses into strengths.
Online Degrees FAQs
Can online degrees actually help you get a better job?
Yup! Many employers now value online degrees—especially from accredited schools. In most cases obtaining an online degree is proof of sound time management skills, tech competence, self-motivation and personal development. Fields like IT, business, and healthcare actively hire online graduates.
Are online degrees easier than traditional college?
Not necessarily. While flexible, they require equal (or greater) discipline. No crowded lectures mean you must take full ownership of your learning. Online degrees are ideal for motivated students but challenging for procrastinators.
Do online degrees say ‘online’ on the diploma?
Rarely! Most accredited universities issue identical diplomas for online and on-campus programs. Your resume just lists the degree—there is hardly every any need to highlight the format.
How do I know if an online degree program is reputable?
Check for regional accreditation (e.g., SACS, NEASC), program-specific approvals (e.g., AACSB for business), and student reviews. Avoid “degree mills” with unrealistically fast timelines and low tuition fees.
Can I transfer credits from an online degree to a traditional university?
Absolutely—if the school is accredited. Many universities accept online credits seamlessly, especially for general education courses. Always confirm transfer policies in advance.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Online Learning
Online education is no longer simply a backup option for those who do not make into brick and mortar institutions and programs. It is now a legitimate, growing pathway to degrees, careers, and lifelong learning. While challenges like self-discipline exist, solutions such as structured schedules, hybrid options, etc put success in this format within rich.
As employers and universities increasingly embrace online credentials, the stigma fades. If you are an adaptable learner, the digital classroom isn’t a compromise at all—it’s an opportunity.