Distance Learning: Masters DegreeEarning a degree through a distance learning program offers convenience because the student can work at his or her own pace, doesn’t need to commute, and has the opportunity to decide when to “virtually” attend classes, even if it’s in the middle of the night. While most people know undergraduate degrees in many fields can be earned virtually, not everyone realizes that this opportunity isn’t limited to just an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. In fact, a master’s degree that can be earned online or through other distance learning models is ideal for individuals who are already in the workplace and looking to advance more quickly. Alternatively, people who’ve earned an undergraduate degree and entered the workforce only to discover they would be happier in another type of career can also hold onto the existing job while earning an advanced degree in the field they’d really rather be in.
A distance learning master’s degree has a lot to recommend it. The most obvious advantage is its flexibility. These days, most distance learning programs make great use of the internet, although there are programs available that send assignments and materials such as books, videos, and CDs to students who don’t have computer or internet access. Either way, the student is responsible for studying the materials and fulfilling assignments by the due dates, if any are given. This means that when work is slow or family obligations have been fulfilled, the learner is able to work more intensely. Conversely, when work projects or family needs require more attention, school work can take a back seat. Although in theory a distance learning master’s degree takes the same amount of time to earn as a traditional degree, for some individuals it may take longer because they are combining school with work or family. However, many students are pleasantly surprised to discover that a distance learning master’s degree might not take longer, even when working full time. In some cases, the time commitment might even be less because a student who spends the day working in the same field undoubtedly has considerable firsthand knowledge and doesn’t need to spend time focused on lessons about information that is already familiar. For many, a distance learning master’s degree may also be a money saver. You’re already saving commuting time, and those hours that would otherwise be spent in a car or on a bus can be put to more efficient use studying. Similarly, you’re also saving the money that commuting otherwise costs. A happy surprise for some distance learners is discovering that in some cases, tuition might even be cheaper! After all, if a school doesn’t need to maintain a classroom and its equipment, roadways, parking areas, and landscaping, some of those savings are, in some cases, passed along to the student. While the convenience in terms of times and the potential savings sound good, it’s important to recognize that not all people are good candidates for distance learning programs. Someone who needs frequent advice from the supervisor at work, for example, might discover that distance learning just doesn’t offer enough oversight. An individual who thrives on being a team member at work might find that the solitary nature of distance learning is simply too lonely. And of course, anyone who is naïve enough to think that learning without a teacher equals partying instead of studying won’t succeed in programs of this type. Most people who enter a master’s distance learning program, however, have the maturity and drive to succeed. Whether you are interested in a master’s of arts or of science, you’ll find distance learning opportunities abound in most fields. There are a few things to consider before making a decision, though. First, determine if it is possible to earn a particular course of study entirely virtually, or if you will be required to attend classes half time or visit the campus periodically for exams, seminars, or workshops. Programs that combine face-to-face learning with independent studies are called hybrid programs. While they will require you to be on campus about half the time, they do combine the best of both worlds and may work for students who need some human connection but don’t have the time for a lot of scheduled classes. You might also find a program that allows you to do 100% of your school work from home. These are typically offered by private virtual universities, some of which don’t even have a physical campus. It’s important to note, however, that it is not realistic for every field to offer this option because of accreditation limitations. Some fields require that a certain number or type of classes be taken on campus, either because a hands-on component is essential to learning the skills students will need in the workplace, or because equipment such as high powered microscopes or computers with certain capabilities must be used. While you might find programs that are 100% virtual and claim to be accredited, beware. If the accrediting agency isn’t recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation, they aren’t considered legitimate. This can compromise the value of any degree you are granted from a school accredited by such agencies. Furthermore, you will not be able to obtain federal loans, scholarships, grants, or other forms of financial aid because these monies are reserved for schools and programs that have been legitimately accredited. Some of the most popular fields for master’s distance learning degrees include education, business, accounting, and information technology, but such degrees are offered in hundreds of fields and subspecialties. For anyone who is frustrated on the job because advancement seems impossible beyond a certain point, or for anyone with a bachelor’s degree who is interested in a career change, a master’s earned through a distance learning program just might be the best way to go. |
Some students wonder if a distance learning master’s degree is as useful as a degree earned the traditional way. As long as the program is accredited by a nationally recognized agency or board and the school has a good reputation, employers in most fields consider a degree earned through distance learning to be every bit as good as one learned on a physical campus. Some may even consider it better, because it suggests the degree holder is self motivated, works well independently, and has the ability to stay on task over long periods of time.