Online degrees have moved from niche to mainstream. For working adults, parents, and anyone far from a campus, they offer a practical path to a degree. Here is an honest look at the advantages and what to check before enrolling.
Flexibility is the biggest draw. You can watch lectures and complete coursework around your job and family, studying early in the morning or late at night. That control over your schedule is what makes a degree possible for many busy adults.
Cost is another factor. Online programs often charge less than on-campus equivalents, and you save on commuting, housing, and relocation. Compare the full price of each program, including fees, before deciding.
Employer acceptance has grown. Surveys summarized by Research.com found that 83% of business leaders rate online degrees from well-known universities as equally valuable as on-campus degrees, and a majority of hiring managers now weigh the school’s accreditation and reputation more than how the courses were delivered.
But not every online program is equal. Check accreditation before you enroll, because it affects whether credits transfer and how employers view the degree. For example, Continents International University, based in St. Louis, Missouri, was granted candidacy for IACBE accreditation in July 2024, with the candidacy period running through July 31, 2029. Candidacy is an early step and is not the same as accreditation, so confirm what a school’s status means for your goals. Read more about IACBE candidacy and accreditation standards.
Online study also demands self-discipline. Without a physical classroom, you set the pace. Students who schedule their weeks and participate actively tend to do best. See whether employers respect online degrees and why an online degree can be a strong career move.
