Online learning is decades old and gained traction in the 1990s thanks to expanded accreditation and participation by major universities. Online enrollment has steadily increased since then and surged during the COVID lockdowns. As of 2023, 53.2% of students in postsecondary institutions were enrolled in at least one online class.
Old stigmas and misconceptions about online learning are fading fast. Online degrees are no longer synonymous with diploma mills, especially now that hiring managers look favorably on degrees that come from accredited, nonprofit schools. Succeeding in online learning takes self-discipline and time management skills that show employers you can work independently, manage deadlines, and juggle priorities.
Online education offers the flexibility and practical learning opportunities you’ll need to advance your career and stay competitive in today’s market. We’ll go over why employers are becoming more accepting of online degrees, what it can do for your salary and long-term prospects, and how you can succeed in an online environment.
Whether you want to sharpen your skills, switch careers, or need to start fresh, online education will help you take that next step. On your terms and at your own pace.
Employer Perceptions of Online Degrees
The way employers view online degrees has changed dramatically over the past five years. They’re no longer seen as second-rate, especially those from accredited, nonprofit institutions that uphold academic rigor. We’ll look at how employer attitudes have evolved, how acceptance varies by industry, and what skills and qualities employers value most.
Increasing Acceptance
A decade ago, the question, “Would you hire someone with an online degree?” may have raised eyebrows. Today, most managers wouldn’t hesitate, especially when the degree is from a reputable institution. According to a 2018 study, employers evaluate online credentials based on the quality and applicability of the education. The top factors they consider include:
- Quality and rigor of the curriculum
- Alignment of course content with applied, real-world work
- Inclusion of applied projects or hands-on learning
- Reputation of the institution
You need to do your due diligence when selecting a program because hiring managers are paying attention. Look for accredited schools with strong reputations and programs that offer real-world, experiential learning. The more industry-focused and rigorous the curriculum, the more credibility your degree will have with employers.
Industry-Specific Acceptance
While online degrees are gaining broader credibility, demand for them is growing fastest in fields like healthcare, computer science, and business. These areas also rank among the fastest-growing occupations where worker shortages, evolving technological skill requirements, and the need for continuous learning drive acceptance of online degrees. Careers in nursing, data science, or finance are just a few examples that are in high demand and well paid, making them ideal for online learners.
Skills and Qualities Valued by Employers
Hiring managers are looking for well-rounded candidates who can think critically, adapt quickly, and stay motivated in a rapidly changing world. This is exactly where online degree holders excel. The self-motivation needed to succeed in an online environment, often cited as one of its top challenges, can become one of your most valuable assets in an interview. Online learners build real-world skills like time management, self-discipline, and adaptability, which align closely with what employers are actively seeking.
The 2025 “Future of Jobs Report” by the World Economic Forum noted that there are specific skills in demand and on the rise for U.S. employers. Skills relevant to online learning include:
- Analytical thinking: Evaluate complex materials to solve problems independently and apply critical thinking to complete assignments.
- Resilience, flexibility, and agility: Balance coursework with work and family obligations while adapting to schedules, platforms, and priorities.
- Motivation and self-awareness: Stay self-motivated and organized to manage productivity and progress.
- Technological literacy: Navigate learning management systems for digital collaboration, file management, and tool competency.
- Curiosity and lifelong learning: Proactively seek out resources, explore new ideas, and stay engaged through self-directed learning.
Online graduates can confidently highlight these transferable and in-demand skills employers value.
Positive Career Outcomes
Salary and Job Placement
Online degree holders often receive comparable salaries and job placement rates to those with traditional degrees. A 2024 survey found 87.4% of respondents had hired graduates with online degrees. 100% of those employers reported paying new hires with an online degree the same as those with in-person credentials.
This kind of parity gives students more options when choosing the right program. They can confidently opt for an online program knowing they can access the same career opportunities and return on investment. According to Gallup, postgraduate degree holders who completed most of their courses online are just as likely to be employed full-time (79% vs. 78%) and hold professional and managerial jobs (85% vs. 88%) as their peers who primarily took classes on campus.
Strategies for Success with an Online Degree
Earning an online degree can open doors, but to get the most out of your investment, you must take a strategic approach. This section will cover how to choose the right program and how networking and professional development are necessary for success during your studies and throughout your career.
Choosing the Right Program
While online learning has come a long way since the days of diploma mills and questionable credentials, not all programs are created equal. Employers are looking for specific quality markers when evaluating your online degree, and so should you. Here’s what to look for when choosing a program:
- Non-profit status: Opt for a non-profit institution. They are generally more reputable and less likely to be associated with low-quality programs.
- Accreditation: Make sure the institution is accredited by a recognized agency. Regional accreditation is generally considered more prestigious than national accreditation.
- Reputation: Look for an established school with positive rankings and reviews.
- Program fit: Review the curriculum to confirm the program has your desired major and aligns with your goals.
- Credit transfer policies: Make sure the school accepts transfer credits and that its credits are accepted by other institutions.
- Faculty credentials: Choose programs with qualified, credentialed instructors.
On the flip side, avoid programs that:
- Promise a degree for little to no work or a flat fee
- Use a website that doesn’t end in .edu
- Don’t have faculty information listed
- Lack accreditation or have a fake accreditation
- Provide limited or vague details about curriculum or outcomes
Choosing a reputable, accredited program isn’t just about avoiding scams. It’s about getting a good education and earning a degree that holds value with prospective employers.
Networking and Professional Development
Earning a degree is more than just getting the coursework done. Networking and building professional relationships are powerful ways to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and uncover new opportunities. For online students, developing this network and committing to continuous learning are key strategies for standing out and advancing your career long after graduation. You can build your network remotely by taking advantage of:
- Virtual conferences
- Webinars
- LinkedIn groups
- Alumni networks
- Professional associations
- Industry-relevant online forums
For professional development opportunities, look into:
- Industry certifications
- Virtual internships
- Professional associations
- Online workshops and conferences
- Your school’s career services center
These habits help build long-term job security by keeping you engaged with industry trends, expanding your visibility, and positioning you as a growth-minded professional.
Conclusion
Online education has been around for decades, and its reputation has come a long way since then. Employers now recognize the value that accredited online degrees can bring to the workforce, especially when paired with strong skills and relevant experience.
As long as you do your due diligence and choose a quality program that aligns with your goals, an online degree can be a step toward achieving long-term success. Whether you’re looking to change careers, move up the ladder in your current role, or gain a few new skills, online education offers you a flexible, accessible path to career growth.
National University is a regionally accredited institution offering online degrees ranging from associate to doctoral levels. If you’re looking for a program that combines academic rigor with the flexibility to fit your lifestyle, National University may be the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, online degrees are increasingly respected by employers, especially if they are from accredited institutions. Over 87 percent of organizations have hired job applicants with online degrees in the past year, and many view them as equal to traditional degrees in terms of quality and credibility.
Generally, hiring managers focus more on the skills and qualifications you bring rather than the mode of education. However, accreditation and program reputation are important factors. Employers value the self-discipline and time management skills often associated with online degree holders.
Yes, you can get a good job with an online degree. Many employers view online degrees as comparable to traditional ones, and online graduates report positive career outcomes. The key is to ensure the program is accredited and aligns with your career goals.
Generally, online degrees do not negatively affect salary potential. Many employers pay online degree holders the same as those with traditional degrees, as long as the program is accredited and relevant to the job.
Highlight the skills you developed during your online program, such as time management and self-discipline. Emphasize any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your capabilities. Ensure you mention the accreditation of your program and any notable achievements.
