Online degrees have become the norm in higher education. Students are no longer restricted by geographical boundaries to receive high-quality training across a wide range of industries.
So, what is an online degree? Any undergraduate or postgraduate degree, including bachelor’s and master’s, earned entirely or primarily online, is considered an online degree. The very first online degrees were introduced in 1984 by the University of Toronto and steadily gained popularity throughout the 2000s as an alternative option to traditional degrees.
The online education market worldwide has experienced significant growth and development, having grown more than 900% since its inception. As the fastest-growing market in the higher education industry today, let’s explore what makes online degrees so popular.
Why are online degrees gaining popularity in modern education?
Online degrees continue to shape the future of higher education due to the growing demand. Despite the pros and cons of online degrees, the combination of flexibility, accessibility and return on investment appeals to a global audience.
Various online degree benefits suit the modern professional lifestyle, with hybrid working models still in place, increased globalisation and greater emphasis on overall health and wellbeing.
Perhaps the most influential reason online degrees are the future of higher education is the increased reputation and acceptance of online learning among employers. Online learning has lost the stigma attached to it as more and more students view online degrees as the most effective way to pursue a successful career.
Pros of getting an online degree
Here are some of the online degree benefits to consider:
- Flexibility
The major benefit of pursuing a degree online is the lack of restrictions. You can study at your own pace, from anywhere in the world and around personal and professional commitments.
- Cost-effectiveness
Online degrees are notoriously inexpensive compared to the costs associated with traditional degrees. An online degree removes additional costs, including childcare and travel expenses.
- Accessibility
One of the key online degree benefits is the accessibility to high-quality training. All students need is a stable internet connection to access accredited online degrees from esteemed higher education providers worldwide.
- Increased options
The pool of online degrees continues to increase in depth, with courses tailored to everyone’s requirements and interests. The number of online degree providers will continue to grow in line with demand.
Cons of getting an online degree
Like many things, there are benefits and drawbacks of online learning. So, what are some things to consider before enrolling on an online course?
- Lack of student experience
Despite online events and networking opportunities, studying remotely leads to an absence of in-person connections. Students pursuing an online degree will also miss out on on-campus and extracurricular activities.
- Self-discipline and focus
Studying online requires good self-discipline and the ability to stay focused in the absence of external motivators. It is important to separate life, work and study to maintain a productive study environment.
- Technology issues
A stable internet connection is a prerequisite for all online students. However, technical issues like connectivity problems while studying online are common.
Who benefits most from online degrees?
Pursuing an online degree benefits a wide range of learners, including working professionals and international students.
Removing traditional barriers has increased accessibility to diversify the student population. Today, age, location and personal/professional status are no longer hurdles for individuals to overcome in higher education.
In addition to learners, online education providers benefit from the demand for online degrees, with a greater awareness of online degree benefits and emphasis on championing lifelong learning.
Pursue an online degree at Arden University
Now you have considered the pros and cons of online degrees, discover the flexible learning opportunities at Arden University.
Offering a combination of distance and blended learning degree courses to students in the UK and globally, Arden is the university that comes to you. We have removed traditional barriers to higher education to provide over 90 future-proof courses designed for lasting success.
Find a course tailored to your interests and goals here and join our supportive and inclusive student network today.
FAQs
While there are pros and cons of online degrees, it is widely believed that online degree benefits outweigh the constraints. Some main advantages include flexibility, accessibility, cost-effectiveness and increased learner options.
The main difference between an online degree and a traditional degree is an online degree is delivered virtually, removing the need for in-person learning. This means an online degree can be accessed anywhere in the world at any time.
Yes, the growing reputation and demand for online degrees have led to an increase in the quality and recognition of online degrees. Employers value an online degree in the modern workplace.
When considering the benefits and drawbacks of online learning, affordability is an attractive aspect of online degrees. Studying online removes additional costs, including travel and childcare.
