If you’re thinking about going back to college to complete your degree, you’re not alone. As an online student you are still able to maintain work, family obligations and school at the same time. With the vast array of online benefits such as, instructor lectures available 24/7, online collaboration and discussion groups that can be joined at any time of the day or night and online accessibility from anywhere in the world. Online courses and degree programs may make a lot of sense to you.

However, I am sure that these questions have crossed your mind many times or at least once: What do employers say about online education Do employers respect online degrees? Will accreditation make a big difference? Are employers familiar with online education? How will employers react to online degrees? Is it worth pursuing an online education? Well, I will answer some of these questions that you should be concerned about – after all your career depends on it.

Is Online Learning Less Familiar to Employers?

According to a career counselor and educational consultant based in New York City, “Traditional programs have been around for hundreds of years, but online programs are relatively new and employers tend to be less familiar with them,” he says. However in a survey done by online institution Excelsior College and Zogby International, 61 percent of CEOs and small business owners nationwide said they were familiar with online or distance learning programs. We can conclude from this that employers are aware and are realizing that online learning is here to stay.

How do Employers View Online Degrees?

The way most employers view online degrees in the past has definitely changed over the years. As more and more schools have started providing online education, more employers are realizing that online education is legitimate. Most employers are more concerned that the institution is accredited and the school has a good reputation, rather than the method you use to obtain your degree.

Why Accreditation is Important?

Accreditation proves assurance to employers that the highest academic standards have been met. If you are in the process of earning a degree online or if you are thinking about online education, it is very important that you seek a college or university that has been accredited by a reputable and recognized accreditation agency.

Quality of Education: Campus-Based Education vs. Online Education?

Studies show that for most students, distance learning is just as effective as traditional on-campus learning. Make your potential employer aware of the reputation of an online degree. Let them know that an online degree programs provide the same quality education that is found in the traditional college degree programs.

What are the Advantages of Pursuing an Online Degree?

More and more people today find online learning the most suitable to fit their learning style and busy schedule. Online institutions cater to the needs of working professionals who are constrained with full-time employment, family and social life. You can complete a degree program on your schedule, at your own pace, from the comfort and convenience of your own home or anywhere you choose 24 hours a day seven days a week. Online learning is the way to go!