In the last several years there has been a great increase in the number of programs and degrees that are now available though distance education and online learning programs. Trying to figure out what to study then becomes a challenging task with all these choices and options. Some of the questions that run through the students include: Is the program fully accredited? What does it mean to complete a degree online? Will I be able to get a job upon graduating? What degree programs are most marketable?
There is a trend for people who may have started their degrees but perhaps had to postpone graduation for various reasons to consider online programs and accelerated degree programs and degree completion programs. Such programs offer flexibility to people who work full time or have families because they can take classes at their own pace. Another trend is for traditional colleges and universities to offer online program options for students who want the campus life experience as well as the online learning experience.
Studies and online surveys seem to suggest that while the trends in online degrees fluctuate each quarter and within different degree levels some areas of study remain very popular: These are: Business, Healthcare (Nursing, Psychology, Medical Billing and Coding); Education, Engineering and Computer Information Systems, and Criminal Justice.
Research also suggests that a larger number of students enroll for graduate level programs, especially doctoral and masters programs. This seems to be based on the fact that the students need the flexibility to continue enhancing their skills and knowledge.
Business administration studies remain popular at both the masters and bachelors levels. The MBA (Masters in Business Administration) for instance is almost a requirement for most mid-level and upper-level management positions. What this means is that more and more students are seeking to complete their MBA online. It also means that more universities are observing this trend and responding to the need by offering online learning options. Areas of study that include project management, risk management, accounting, finance, human resource management and marketing are marketable areas of study for the students.
There is still a great demand for certain areas of practice in the medical and healthcare profession despite the growth in the fields. These areas are medical transcription, medical billing, medical coding, and health care administration. In particular, nursing (LPN, RN, BSN, and MSN) is projected to continue to need trained professional. The shortage of nurses has resulted from developments in medical technology and an aging baby boomer generation that is retiring.
Education is another area of study that still has a demand. Certain subject areas such as mathematics education, science education, and special education continue to have a great need in the school systems. There are also other areas in education that continue to have a need including educational technology, educational leadership, and educational administration.
In this information age we live in, technology continues to advance. Subsequently, degree programs in certain areas such as computer security, information technology, software engineering, and web development continue to serve this body of students who want to join various professions in this field. One advantage is that technology is being applied to all areas thus is not industry specific.
Criminal justice online degree programs are popular regardless of whether it is at the masters, bachelors, or associates degree level. The need for trained professional remains in many areas of practice including law enforcement, homeland security, forensics, investigation, paralegal and legal services, corrections, and law enforcement.
Regardless of what you decide to study, keep some key points in mind. The first thing is to ensure that you select an institution that is fully accredited by a professional body. Second, keep in mind that while some areas of study may not be popular with students, there is an industry need for certain areas of practice and these areas tend to pay quite well. Third, do some prior research to see what financial commitment you need to make and if there are available scholarships. In addition, check the course scheduling to ensure that it is flexible so that you can graduate online.
Learn more about career options with a bachelor degree in business or a associate degree in business from Sophie Peters website.
January 12, 2010 by Sophie Peters