Are Online Degrees Respected?

When adults are considering going back to school, and have begun looking into their options - both on-campus and online - one of the biggest questions that comes up is, "are online degrees respected?" With stories about disreputable online institutions (particularly for-profits) dominating the media, many students worry that their degree will not be worth it, or won't be seen as high-quality or "real" in the eyes of a potential employer.

Concerns are understandable. Media coverage of disreputable for-profit institutions has left many prospective students wondering whether an online degree will be taken seriously by employers or viewed as “less than” a traditional degree.

The reality is far more encouraging. While students should always evaluate schools carefully, online degrees from reputable, accredited institutions are widely respected and have become a mainstream part of higher education and workforce preparation.

Below, we address the most common questions students ask about online degrees, supported by current trends, employer data, and industry demand.
 

Are Online Degrees Credible?

Yes — online degrees are credible, provided they are earned from a reputable institution.

If you're attending a school that has a poor reputation - for example, is a for-profit, is nationally and not regionally accredited, or has been in the news for its unethical practices around things like financial aid and student recruitment - employers may not view your degree as credible. However, savvy students can avoid disreputable institutions and find an excellent online college by doing their homework, and researching any school they plan to apply to thoroughly.

If you are attending a well-regarded institution with reputable programs, non-profit status, and regional accreditation, then your degree will generally be perceived as credible.

Are Online Degrees Good?

At some point during your research, you might find yourself wondering if an online degree is worth it, or asking yourself, "how good are online degrees, really?"

Online education has matured significantly over the past decade. What was once considered an alternative pathway is now a standard option offered by many well-established colleges and universities.

Online programs typically:

• Use the same curriculum as on-campus programs
• Are taught by the same faculty
• Require the same academic rigor and learning outcomes

Again, while quality varies from institution to institution (just as it does in on-campus schools), in general, there's no reason to worry about whether online degree programs, as a whole, are good. Online learning is simply another way of getting information; while you will be relying on tools like discussion boards and email rather than face-to-face conversations and lectures to learn, the quality of that learning won't be any different from what you'd be getting in a physical classroom.

Trends and Growth in Online Degree Programs

The rapid growth of online education is one of the strongest indicators that online degrees are respected and accepted.

• More than one quarter of U.S. college students enrolled exclusively in online programs, and over half of all students took at least one online course in 2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
• Graduate-level online enrollment has steadily increased in recent years and is projected to continue growing through the end of the decade.
• Millions of working adults now rely on online education to upskill, reskill, or complete degrees while balancing careers and family responsibilities.

As online learning becomes more common, employers increasingly view it as a normal—and practical—way to earn a degree.

Are Online Degrees Respected by Employers?

Yes, online degrees are respected by employers, especially when earned from accredited institutions.

As long as the institution is reputable, most people understand that online learning and on-campus learning are equivalent in terms of quality and workforce preparation. 

In fact, some employers see online education as a positive signal. Completing an online degree often demonstrates:

• Self-discipline and time management
• Strong written communication skills
• Comfort with digital collaboration tools
• The ability to balance long-term goals with professional responsibilities

Fields with Increasing Demand for Online Degrees

Online degrees are especially common—and well-regarded—in fields experiencing rapid workforce demand:

Business and Management

Online business degrees are among the most popular nationwide. Employers value practical skills in leadership, finance, operations, and analytics, regardless of whether they were developed online or on campus.

Information Technology and Computer Science

Tech employers frequently prioritize demonstrable skills over learning format. Online programs in IT, cybersecurity, and computer science align well with industry needs.

Healthcare and Healthcare Administration

Online degrees in healthcare administration help address workforce shortages by enabling working professionals to advance without leaving their fields. Administrative and leadership roles increasingly accept online credentials.

Why Online Degrees Are Becoming More Respected

Several factors have contributed to the growing acceptance of online education:

• Mainstream adoption: Traditional colleges and universities now offer fully online versions of their on-campus degrees.
• Workplace digitalization: Remote work and digital collaboration are now standard across industries.
• Skills-based hiring: Employers increasingly value competencies, experience, and outcomes over rigid educational pathways.

As a result, online degrees are no longer viewed as unconventional—they’re seen as practical, efficient, and aligned with modern workforce realities.

How Do I Find a High-Quality Online Degree Program?

If you’re considering an online degree, doing your research is essential. Look for programs that offer:

• Regional accreditation
• Clear learning outcomes and curriculum transparency
• Qualified, experienced faculty
• Reasonable graduation and retention rates
• Strong student support and career services

Third-party resources such as college rankings and institutional reviews can help validate program quality. You should also be cautious of common red flags, including unclear accreditation, unusually fast completion promises, and overly aggressive recruitment tactics.

Take the Next Step With Champlain College Online

If you’re considering an online degree and want a program that’s both flexible and respected, Champlain College Online offers career-focused programs designed for working adults. With accredited degrees, industry-aligned curriculum, and support built for busy professionals, Champlain College Online helps students gain the skills employers value—on a schedule that fits their lives.

Explore our online degree programs to find an option that aligns with your career goals and contact us today.