Those in the process of earning an online master degree constantly wonder if they will be able to use it later. The student has to worry about the value of his degree to those who call the shots in the job market. Do employers recognize degrees achieved via distance learning?
One has to think about that because of the persistent prejudice held against unconventional ways of schooling. This wariness arose at the time due to a compound of reluctance to question conventional schooling and a rising occurrence of web-based fraud. The association with Net technologies led to online programs being viewed as fraudulent too.
That said, matters are a little better now that bodies actually accredit programs. As standards are imposed on the educational institutions, corporations begin to take notice. The presence of prime personalities and bigwigs in accrediting groups' panels furthers the impression of quality for institutions that actually win accreditation.
Even so, one must yet be wary when looking over options for colleges. According to them, majority still hold some form of prejudice against the online options, so you want as recognisable a school as you can get. A reputable institution's prestige can add to your own when the HR people inspect resumes.
Sometimes, it is actually lack of fame for the academy that will harm your chances, and not even a lack of quality in the education it provides. Hence, you need to look beyond the accrediting body's approval. The smart route is to select colleges that are both established and accredited.
To that end, you may want to avoid purely online schools. HR officers caution that they are less likely to give jobs to graduates of such institutions. Keep in mind that deviations from this assertion shall be very rare.
Something intriguing happens when you mention undergraduate-level studies online, though. The Internet-based bachelor's degree is apparently not very highly-regarded by those calling the shots in personnel. One must thus be wary of earning one's undergrad over the Web.
Overall, opinions have been changing for the better for online masters graduates. There is less opposition to hiring someone from such a background. This does not mean all the negativity has gone away, though.
You shall have to prove your worth in more ways than one for your diploma to be counted. Experiential credits count for a lot, so think of that. You could even start working earlier to get more experience or projects under your name.
Of course, it all starts with picking the right online master degree. Be certain that you pick one that is actually accredited and recognizable. It is wise to expend effort now instead of repining later.
