What is A Masters Degree?

According to USA Today, analysis of data released by the Department of Education, four of the largest post-secondary schools in the country operate mostly online. Online education is a rapidly growing phenomenon in today's technologically advanced world. If you are exploring options for continuing your education or thinking and going back to college to pursue an advanced degree that may help you advance your career, online programs are a great choice. Over the last decade, a continually growing number of students are enrolling in online education. When the idea of studying over the internet initially became a reality, it was merely seen as a way of taking up short accreditation courses, but today you'll even find many full length online master's programs being offered by numerous schools.

Select Master Programs

Although online master's degrees are equally rigorous in terms of curriculum and they make no sacrifice as far as quality is concerned, they offer you a number of benefits. You will be able to continue your education and keep your current job. Online education enables you to manage your professional responsibilities alongside your education without having to forgo potential wages while you are studying. They are flexible enough to let you chose your own study schedule and style. You may enjoy the freedom of studying anywhere without having to worry about commuting to class on a regular basis. Online programs are starting to prove to be relatively cost effective too.

You will need an internet connection in order to enroll and complete coursework. You will typically receive instruction through online video lectures or download lecture material. Like traditional on-campus programs, you will be required to submit regular assignments and take tests. At the end of the session, final exams are usually scheduled. Online education is interactive in nature; allowing you the opportunity to participate in class discussions and have one-on-one sessions with your professor. There are many hybrid programs which provide a combination of on-campus and online instruction. These are generally offered in case of disciplines that require hands-on knowledge and training.

According to a study conducted during a teacher training program by Eduventures in January 2012, principals are equally willing to hire candidates who have received degrees from online programs as compared to traditional programs. Research also showed that new teachers who had received online training felt as well prepared as those who had been trained in traditional lecture room settings. Online master's degrees are offered in a wide range of disciplines, including but not restricted to:

• Business Administration
• Accounting and Finance
• Economics
• Counseling and Psychology
• Health Care and Nursing
• Education
• Project Management
• Public Service
• Criminal Justice
• Human Services

Before you decide to pursue a particular online master's program, make sure that the school you choose has received accreditation from a body which is recognized by the Department of Education. Other important factors to be considered when choosing an online program include the school's history and reputation, credentials of the faculty, and the alumni network.