Finding a master’s degree online requires reviewing your goals, interests, learning preferences, and practical needs. With thousands of online program options available, it’s hard to find the right course.
Some key factors might help you. This blog breaks down the eight must-know tips for landing on the online master’s that’ll take you exactly where you want to go.
Let’s begin:
Define Your Goals
Are you looking to advance in your current career field and increase your earning potential?
Or gain deeper expertise in a subject area you are passionate about? Or Transition into an entirely new professional path?
Knowing the “why” behind pursuing the degree will allow you to narrow your program search more effectively. For example, if your goal is career advancement–focus on programs directly applicable to your field.
If you want to change careers–prioritize programs that allow you to build an entirely new skill set. If you are pursuing the degree out of personal interest, look for programs based purely on academic curiosity and passion for the subject matter.
Consider Learning Preferences
An online master’s degree provides flexibility. But it also requires a lot of self-motivation and discipline.
As you go through different programs, answer these four questions:
- Do you want to self-study?
- Do you prefer courses with strict deadlines?
- Do you want to study independently–at your own pace?
- Do you want opportunities for virtual meetings with instructors and peers?
Find your learning preferences and choose a program accordingly.
Be honest. Think about the accountability you need versus how well you can self-regulate and manage your time.
Assess Program Offerings
Research and evaluate specific online programs. Look thoroughly at the curriculum details for your fields of study. Ensure that the program checks the specific skills you need to meet your objectives.
Key things to assess include:
- Core course requirements and electives offered – do they align with your goals?
- Opportunities for applied learning projects, internships, etc.
- Instructor expertise and professional backgrounds
- Thesis or culminating experience requirements
- Structure of the program
Go through the sample syllabi and graduate outcomes data. Contact professors, current students, or alumni. They can also provide helpful insights.
Confirm Accreditation
Regional or national accreditation from recognized accrediting bodies is a must. Double-check that both the university and the specific program you want are properly accredited.
Some programs may also have field-specific programmatic accreditation, such as AACSB or ABET.
Assess Affordability and Return on Investment
As you narrow down your options, calculate the full costs involved with each program thoroughly.
Have a look at the tuition, fees, required textbooks/software, and any campus residencies that would require travel. Also, factor in the lost income if you’ll be leaving or reducing your job while studying.
Then, research the expected salary ranges to estimate your potential return on investment (ROI). An affordable program from a public university may end up providing the best value.
Also, have a look at employer tuition assistance benefits or student loan options.
Don’t Forget Support Services
Even if you study in an online environment, it’s critical that you have access to support services and resources that facilitate your success.
Look into each program’s offerings for things like academic advising, technology support, virtual tutoring, library services, career development resources, accommodation for disabilities and more.
Strong student support increases your chances of completing the program and leveraging it effectively.
Connect With Current Students
One of the most valuable ways to gain insight into an online master’s program is to connect directly with current students.
They can provide a genuine window into the actual student experience – things like coursework rigor, time commitments required, faculty engagement levels, peer collaboration opportunities and overall pros and cons.
If possible, try to speak to multiple students to get varying perspectives.
Go With Your Gut
After doing your due diligence researching and evaluating all factors, you’ll likely identify a handful of programs that seem like a strong potential fit.
Don’t ignore your intuitive feeling about each option as you prepare to make your final choice.
If one program resonates with your goals and priorities more than others, feels exciting and motivating, or just seems like a better overall fit – trust those gut instincts.
Final Words
Selecting the right online master’s degree program is ultimately a highly personal decision based on your unique situation and needs.
By carefully and thoughtfully walking through these evaluation factors, you can find the program perfectly tailored to provide the knowledge, skills, support and credentials to help propel you toward your definition of success.
Why Acacia’s Master’s Programs Might Be the Perfect Fit
Acacia University offers a diverse range of online Master’s programs in Education designed to meet the needs of educators at all stages of their careers. Explore Acacia’s online Master’s in Education programs today and see how we can help you achieve your goals.
