The Perception of Online Degrees Is Changing
A decade ago, mentioning an online degree in a job interview could raise eyebrows. Today, the landscape has shifted considerably. With major universities now offering fully online programmes and the rapid expansion of distance learning, employers have had to reassess how they evaluate online qualifications. But does that mean all online degrees carry the same weight? Not quite.
What Determines Whether an Online Degree Is Respected?
Employer attitudes toward online degrees depend on several factors — and the degree itself is only part of the picture.
1. The Reputation of the Awarding Institution
An online degree from a well-regarded university (such as those offered by the Open University UK, Penn State World Campus, or the University of London) tends to be viewed just as favourably as an on-campus qualification from the same institution. The key is that the degree certificate often does not specify whether the programme was completed online or in-person.
2. Accreditation Status
This is arguably the most important factor. An online degree from an accredited institution signals that the programme met rigorous academic standards. Degrees from unaccredited online institutions — regardless of how professional they look — are generally not accepted by employers or other universities.
3. The Industry and Role
Some industries are more receptive to online degrees than others:
- Technology, business, and finance: Generally very accepting, with many professionals holding online qualifications
- Healthcare and clinical roles: Often require in-person clinical placements regardless of how academic components are delivered
- Law and academia: Tend to place higher value on institutional prestige and traditional credentials
- Government and public sector: Increasingly accepting of online degrees from accredited institutions
4. How You Present the Degree
Confidence and context matter. If your online degree is from an accredited institution and you can speak to the rigour of the programme, most interviewers will not penalise you for it. Focus on what you learned, projects you completed, and skills you developed.
Do Employers Check Whether a Degree Was Earned Online?
Most employers do not specifically ask or check whether a degree was completed online or on-campus — they verify that the degree is real and from an accredited institution. Background checks typically confirm your graduation date, qualification level, and awarding institution, not the mode of study.
Advantages of Online Degrees Employers Actually Value
Completing an online degree demonstrates several qualities that employers find attractive:
- Self-discipline and time management: Online study requires you to manage your own schedule without classroom structure
- Digital literacy: Familiarity with virtual learning environments, online collaboration tools, and digital communication
- Motivation: Completing a degree while managing work or family commitments signals strong personal drive
Warning Signs: Online Degrees to Avoid
Not all online degrees are created equal. Steer clear of programmes that:
- Cannot provide verifiable accreditation from a recognised national body
- Promise degrees in unusually short timeframes
- Charge surprisingly low fees with minimal academic requirements
- Are offered by institutions that closely mimic the names of established universities
How to Choose a Credible Online Degree Programme
- Confirm the institution is regionally or nationally accredited by a body recognised by the government
- Check that the institution's on-campus degrees are also well-regarded
- Look at graduate employment outcomes if the university publishes them
- Verify that the specific online programme is listed on the institution's official website
- Speak to admissions staff — legitimate institutions welcome enquiries and provide clear answers
The Bottom Line
Online degrees from accredited, reputable institutions are genuinely respected by the vast majority of employers and are increasingly indistinguishable from traditional qualifications. The key variables are institutional quality and accreditation — not the mode of delivery. Choose your programme wisely and you'll have a credential you can be proud of throughout your career.