Yes, you can get a job with an online degree, provided it’s from an accredited institution and you have the necessary skills and experience.
Employers increasingly recognise online degrees, especially from reputable universities and platforms such as Coursera, edX, and Southern New Hampshire University.
That said, perception and opportunities may vary depending on the field, employer, and the quality of the programme.
The New Normal of Online Degrees
Since 2020, the credibility of online education has soared. Prestigious institutions and respected professional platforms alike have embraced digital delivery, with more students globally enrolling in fully online programmes.
From business and tech to nursing and public health, online degrees are no longer seen as secondary options — they are often the default for working professionals seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality.
So, Can You Really Get a Job with an Online Degree?
This is a very realistic and relevant question to ask if you’re considering pursuing an online degree. Like any relatively new phenomenon, distance education has met its share of misconceptions and myths.
These may seem like abstract debates, but for online degree holders, the challenges of breaking into the job market can feel very real.
One gnawing question remains: Can I really get a job with an online degree?
Online education is burgeoning, with more universities offering lucrative and well-structured courses online. Many institutions now fall under the category of what are called Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), and some of these have come under fire for offering inconsistent or mediocre degree experiences. That said, many MOOCs now partner with accredited institutions to ensure their offerings meet employer expectations.
The good news is that a growing number of employers recognise the validity of online degrees — especially when they come from respected platforms such as edX, FutureLearn, or University of the People, which offer accredited and career-focused education.
Do Employers Respect Online Master’s Degrees?
Not necessarily in the past — but today, many respected universities (including Ivy League schools) offer online master’s programmes. Employers are increasingly focused on what really matters:
- Accreditation – Is the school regionally or nationally accredited?
- Reputation – Is the institution known and respected within your industry?
- Skills & Experience – Can you demonstrate practical expertise beyond the degree?
Some employers may still prefer traditional, in-person qualifications, but this bias is fading — especially in sectors such as technology, business, and healthcare. Programmes such as the online MBAs offered by Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business and UNC’s Kenan-Flagler (see: https://onlinemba.unc.edu ) have helped shift perceptions by maintaining rigorous standards and producing career-ready graduates.
Top-tier platforms like Coursera and edX have also partnered with elite universities to deliver online master’s degrees that are virtually indistinguishable from their on-campus equivalents.
Similarly, The Princeton Review provides test prep and admissions resources that are just as useful for online programmes as for traditional ones.
Why Accreditation and Reputation Still Matter
Whether your degree is earned online or on-campus, accreditation is a non-negotiable. Employers look for degrees from schools that are regionally accredited or listed with recognised agencies like the U.S.
Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Without proper accreditation, your qualification may not be recognised by employers — or even by other academic institutions.
Online institutions such as University of Phoenix
Capella University, and Walden University are examples of accredited schools offering a wide range of online degrees that align with career-focused outcomes.
The reputation of the school also plays a role. A degree from a recognised name tends to carry more weight, particularly when coupled with strong academic performance and relevant work experience.
Which Industries Value Online Degrees the Most?
Online degrees are especially well-received in certain fields, where practical skills and adaptability matter more than classroom attendance.
Tech & IT: Skills First, Not Format
In tech, what you know often outweighs how you learned it. Many leading companies — including Google, Amazon, and Microsoft — prioritise hands-on skills, certifications, and portfolio work over the degree format. Programmes like Georgia Tech’s online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS) have gained serious respect.
If you’re pursuing IT or data science, supplement your online degree with industry-recognised certifications such as AWS, CompTIA, or Google IT Support. Platforms like Pluralsight and Udacity are ideal for staying current with in-demand skills.
Business & MBAs: Networking + Reputation
Online MBAs from reputable institutions are increasingly viewed on par with traditional ones. Schools like Indiana Kelley and UNC Kenan-Flagler have designed online formats that still deliver networking, live sessions, and hands-on projects.
Business learners can also benefit from career-aligned platforms like LinkedIn Learning, MasterClass , and Coursera, which provide targeted courses and certificates that enhance employability.
Healthcare, Education & Government: Accreditation Critical
In fields like nursing, teaching, or public administration, accreditation is essential. Many online programmes meet licensure or government standards — but always check if your intended job or region has specific credential requirements.
Institutions such as Walden University, SNHU, and University of the offer degrees tailored to these regulated professions.
Are HR Managers Still Biased Against Online Degrees?
The proliferation of positive sentiment around online degrees suffered a temporary setback when a study from the National Bureau of Economic Research highlighted questionable practices by some for-profit institutions.
These schools were criticised for targeting low-income students primarily to access government aid. However, this did not represent the full landscape of distance learning.
Encouragingly, more employers now acknowledge the legitimacy of online degrees. A Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) report noted that about 75% of HR managers had hired someone with an online degree.
While 66% of respondents admitted they initially viewed online degrees less favourably than campus-based ones, this attitude is changing as awareness grows.
The key issue? Information. HR professionals who understand the rigor and structure of modern online programmes are more open to hiring online graduates.
At the end of the day, the hiring decision lies with the HR manager — and their personal awareness of online education can make or break an applicant’s chances.
What Matters More Than the Degree Itself
One of the key takeaways is that experience should never be generalised. What works in one field may not in another. But regardless of your industry, these factors can significantly boost your employability:
- A well-crafted portfolio of projects.
- Practical internships or work experience.
- Certifications or microcredentials (from Udemy, Skillshare, or Edureka).
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
What you do with the degree often matters more than how you got it.
FAQs About Online Degrees and Employment
Do employers take online degrees seriously?
Yes — particularly if the degree comes from an accredited and recognised institution. Employers now focus more on your skills, achievements, and how well you fit the role.
Is it hard to find a job after an online degree?
Not necessarily. Your job prospects depend more on your field, internship experience, and how you present your qualifications than on the format of your degree.
What are the best accredited online universities that employers trust?
Examples include SNHU, Capella University, Walden University, and University of the People
Do government jobs accept online degrees?
Yes — as long as the degree is from a properly accredited institution. Always confirm with your local or national job board for specific requirements.
Which online degrees have the best job prospects?
Degrees in data science, IT, nursing, business analytics, and project management are currently in high demand. Look for programmes that include certifications or hands-on projects.
How can I boost my career with an online degree and certification?
Pair your online degree with skills-based learning from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Pluralsight. Also, use LinkedIn Learning or Teachable to build specific competencies aligned with job openings.
Final Thoughts: Are Online Degrees Worth It for Jobs?
An online degree can absolutely help you land a job — but its value depends on the institution’s accreditation, your field of interest, and how you leverage the qualification in your career.
With the rise of hybrid work and digital-first roles, online learning is no longer seen as second-rate — it’s often an indicator of self-motivation and adaptability.
Whether you’re earning your degree through FutureLearn, Thinkific or a traditional university’s online arm, what matters most is what you do with the knowledge and skills you gain.