How to Choose a Degree Program

Many adults reach a point in their careers where earning a degree becomes the next step — whether to qualify for new opportunities, switch fields, or achieve a personal goal. But with so many options available, knowing how to choose a degree that fits your goals, interests, and lifestyle can feel overwhelming. From program format and cost to career outcomes and accreditation, the right choice requires careful thought. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider so you can make a confident decision.

How to Choose the Right Degree For You

To choose the right degree for you, you'll want to take into account a variety of factors, including the degree level you want to pursue, your own interests and strengths, your career goals, and the stability and growth of the field you're considering pursuing.

Determine the Degree Level You Want to Pursue

Your first decision needs to be the type of degree, or the degree level, you're going to pursue. You have many options here, and your choice will primarily depend on your own academic background.

Associate Degrees

For those without a degree, an associate is a great way to jump back into school and to build your credentials as you go. The path to a bachelor's degree can be a long one, and obtaining an associate is a solid building block on your way.

Undergraduate Certificates

Undergraduate certificates are also a good option for those setting out on their academic journeys, allowing  you to build new skills in smaller, more manageable time frames. These are also a great way for those with a bachelor's degree to brush up on new skills or formalize existing experience and knowledge with a credential.

Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor's degree is widely considered a requirement for many jobs and career paths; for those who do not yet have a degree and are looking to gain a respected credential that can both boost earning potential and open professional doors, a bachelor's degree is your best bet. Bachelor's degrees are often transfer credit-friendly, and typically credits from an associate degree, certificate(s), and prior learning experiences can used be used as building blocks to help you reach the finish line more quickly.

Master's Degrees

For those with a bachelor's degree and solid work experience in your chosen career field, a master's degree is often the next step. A master's helps you build true expertise in your chosen specialization, and allows you to take on higher-level work and (in many industries) significantly increase your earning potential and career opportunities.

Graduate Certificates

If you already have a bachelor's but aren't ready to commit to a master's program, or if you have a master's and are hoping to build graduate-level skills in another specific area, you may want to consider a graduate certificate. These are a great way to build your expertise and add respected credentials to your resume; they're also a good option for those looking to try out graduate-level coursework before enrolling in a full master's program.

Align Your Degree With Your Interests and Strengths

Another key part of learning how to choose a degree is making sure it matches your interests and natural abilities. A program that excites you will keep you motivated, while one that aligns with your strengths can help you thrive.

Ask yourself:

• What subjects or topics interest me most?
• What skills come naturally to me?
• What challenges do I want to take on to grow personally or professionally?

Examples of alignment:

• Tech-focused & problem-solvers: Consider degrees in cybersecurity, computer science, or digital forensics.
• Strong communicators: Marketing, communications, or public relations may be a good fit.
• Natural leaders: Business management or organizational leadership degrees can help build leadership skills.
• Curious learners: Choosing a degree outside your comfort zone can push you to develop new strengths.

By aligning your degree with your passions and talents, you’ll stay engaged throughout your studies and better position yourself for long-term success.

Consider Your Professional Goals

Your career aspirations should be one of the biggest factors when deciding how to choose a degree. Ask yourself questions such as:

• Where do I want to be in my career in 5, 10, or 20 years?
• What is my dream job or ideal career path?
• Am I working toward a specific title or leadership role?
• Do I see growth opportunities at my current company, or would I need to move elsewhere?

The answers can help you determine the right degree path:

• Career changers: A second bachelor’s degree may be better than a master’s if you’re entering a new field at the entry level.
• Skill builders: Certificates (undergraduate or graduate) can provide targeted expertise for advancement.
• Leadership roles: Certain jobs require specific degrees, such as an MBA for business leadership.

By aligning your long-term career goals with your education, you’ll make a more informed decision about which degree will best set you up for success.

Research Careers With High Growth or Stability Projections

When deciding how to choose a degree, it’s important to look beyond personal interests and consider long-term job market trends. Some industries are shrinking, while others are rapidly expanding. Choosing a degree aligned with a growing field can give you greater security and opportunity.

Key steps to take:

• Check growth projections: Use resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics to review job outlooks and industry demand.
• Look for stability: Focus on fields that are less likely to be automated or outsourced.
• Prioritize high-demand areas: Degrees in fields such as cybersecurity, digital forensics, healthcare administration, and business management often offer strong career potential.
• Balance passion with practicality: While interests matter, pairing them with market demand ensures your degree supports long-term success.

By researching careers with strong outlooks, you’ll have more confidence that the degree you choose will remain valuable well into the future.

Evaluate Program Flexibility (Online, Hybrid, On-Campus)

When selecting a degree, one of the first questions you should ask is: how flexible are the course delivery options? Different students have different needs—some prefer fully online, others want occasional face-to-face interaction, and still others are comfortable commuting.

• Fully online programs let you access classes from anywhere, at times that fit your schedule — ideal for working professionals, caregivers, or people who live far from campus.
• Hybrid programs combine online coursework with occasional on-campus or synchronous sessions, offering a blend of flexibility and in-person engagement.
• On-campus (or traditional) programs require physical attendance for most or all classes, which may offer richer in-person networking but less flexibility.

For example, at Champlain College Online (CCO), our programs are offered 100% online in accelerated 7–8 week terms. Think carefully about how much structure and face time you’ll want, and whether your work, family, or commute constraints align with your preferred format.

Understand Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

Knowing what it takes to get into a program is critical before you commit. Here are elements to look into:

• Minimum GPA or academic standing: Many programs require a threshold GPA (e.g. 2.5) for admission.
• Transcripts and prior coursework: You’ll likely need to submit official transcripts showing high school or prior college work
• Prerequisite courses: Some degrees require you to have completed specific foundational courses (e.g. math, statistics, introductory programming) before taking more advanced classes.
• Entrance exams or essays: Some schools may ask for essays, interviews, or standardized test scores (though many online programs waive those).
• Credit for prior learning or transfer credits: It’s worth checking whether previously earned credits — or even professional experience — can reduce your course load or total credits required.

Factor in Cost and Financial Aid Options 

The sticker price of a degree matters, but what truly counts is your net cost after financial aid, scholarships, and other support. When comparing programs, consider:

• Tuition per credit hour (or per term)
• Fees (technology, graduation, course materials, etc.)
• How many credits you can transfer in or get by prior learning
• Scholarships, grants, work-study, and institutional aid
• Employer tuition assistance, GI Bill, or veteran benefits
• Payment plans and deferred options

As you compare options, compute not only the total cost but also how much aid or discounts each program offers and your out-of-pocket burden.

Research School Reputation and Accreditation

Even the best program is only as strong as its institutional backing. When evaluating schools and degrees, investigate:

• Regional or national accreditation: Make sure the institution is properly accredited (e.g. by the New England Commission of Higher Education or equivalent), which affects credit transfer, employer recognition, and graduate study eligibility.
• Program accreditation or certifications (if applicable): Some fields may have additional program-level accreditations or industry alignment.
• Employer perceptions: Talk to professionals in your field or alumni to understand how their degree was viewed in the job market.
• Outcomes data: Look for statistics on graduation rates, job placement, average salaries, and student satisfaction.
• Faculty credentials and industry experience: In applied fields, professors with real-world experience can add strong value.
• Industry connections: Internships, practicum sites, and employer networks help bridge education to career.

Degrees Offered by Champlain College Online

If you're interested in pursuing an online degree, Champlain College Online can help you choose the right degree program for you!

Champlain College Online offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees in a variety of high-growth, career-driven fields, including cybersecurity, business, healthcare administration, and leadership. We also offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate certificates in these fields, giving individuals the opportunity to build credentials on their way to a full degree. Check out our degree and certificate programs or contact our admissions team today to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a degree is right for my career goals?

A degree is the right fit if it helps you build the skills, knowledge, and credentials needed for your desired career path. To figure this out, start by identifying your long-term career goals and researching what qualifications are typically required. Then compare those requirements to the curriculum, learning outcomes, and career services offered in the program you’re considering. It’s also helpful to review alumni outcomes and talk to professionals in your field to make sure the program aligns with real-world expectations.

Can I change my degree after starting a program?

Yes, in most cases it’s possible to change degrees after you’ve started. The process and ease of doing so depend on how far along you are, how related the two fields are, and the school’s policies for transferring credits. The earlier you make the switch, the more likely your completed coursework can apply toward your new program. If you’re considering a change, it’s best to speak with an advisor right away to understand how it will affect your timeline and cost.

What degrees are most in demand right now?

According to recent labor market analyses, degrees connected to technology, healthcare, and business remain highly in demand. Areas like cybersecurity, information technology, computer science, data analytics, and healthcare administration continue to show strong job growth. Business-focused programs with an emphasis on management or digital skills are also sought after. These fields tend to offer robust job prospects because they align with industries undergoing rapid growth and digital transformation.

How can I afford the degree I want?

There are many ways to make higher education more affordable:

• Scholarships and grants, which don’t have to be repaid.
• Federal financial aid, such as Pell Grants, work-study, and student loans (available by completing the FAFSA).
• Employer tuition assistance, if your company offers education benefits.
• Military and veteran benefits, including the GI Bill.
• Tuition payment plans, which allow you to spread costs across the semester.
• Transfer credits or credit for prior learning, which can shorten your program and reduce overall expenses.