Online v. On-Campus Degrees: How do they compare in the job market?

According to the Online Learning Consortium (OLC), nearly 5.8 million students take online classes. The question for online degree graduates is the same for traditional degree graduates: will I be able to get a job? The answer is “yes,” but some employers view job seekers with online degrees a bit differently than they do students with traditional degrees. The key? Credibility.

Let’s take a deeper look at how employers view both degrees—and how you can make yourself a more marketable and desirable candidate with an online one.

1. Some employers accept online degrees…

Experts in online education say that more employers now than ever before accept online degrees—especially degrees that come from well-respected universities. In a recent U.S. News article, chief recruitment officer at Decision Toolbox, a national recruitment firm says, “Schools got better at the delivery models, and hiring managers, particularly in the technology industries, became much more comfortable with it.” While employers look at more than just your degree, rest assured that an online degree from a respected program is well-received.

2.…but some are still a bit wary

Although the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, some companies hesitate to consider online degree holders. In depends on the company, says Mary M. Massad in a U.S. News slideshow. She cites the human resources field as an example: “Not every company is going to view an online degree in HR equally.” The same can be said for many occupations, including those that require fieldwork as a student, like teaching. (See #4) As more programs and schools offer high-quality, respected online degrees, this wariness will wane. (See #3)

3. Institution is important

Name recognition matters. While some brick and mortar programs are better than others, the same is true for online programs. What matters most is accreditation. The Department of Education’s College Navigator is an especially useful tool to research online and traditional institutions. If you earned your online degree, or at least part of it, at an existing traditional school with online study options, you’re in good shape. One highly regarded online institution well-respected by employers? Ligs University, which boasts high-quality, competitive learning outcomes for its students. Another great resource? Institutions that use the Online Learning Scorecard to improve quality flourish—and are constantly looking at methods for improvement.

4. Employer and occupation matter

As online degrees gain popularity, consider the kind of job you want and for whom you want to work. If you have your sights set on a big company, do a little research. Call their human resources department and ask about whether they accept online degrees or not. Check to see if companies in your field of interest have partnerships with online educators, like The Skills Network. And don't forget to get the inside scoop. Going to job fairs is a great way to interact with professionals who work in the field of your interest. Get their thoughts on online degrees—you’ll find that you’ll hear this: accreditation and institution matter most, regardless of whether the degree is online or traditional.

Your takeaway? Select an online degree program that matches your needs and interests. Make sure your program has regional accreditation and comes from a respected institution—online, traditional, or hybrid.

For more tips on selecting an online degree program, read How to Choose an Online Degree Program.