How Employers See Distance Learning?

The stereotypes of distance learning is changing.  Before online education, distance learning meant mail order degrees.  Now prestigious universities like Boston University and Cornell are getting into this newly emerging form of teaching.  Employers are more concerned with what you learned, and what your grades were, than the name of an institution.  It's rare that an employer will hire you if you got Cs in all your class, but you graduated from a top tier school.  They would rather see someone have As from an accredited college, with classes that apply in the world environment.

If you have an online degree this is what an employer sees:

• You are independent, and can work with less instruction.
• You have technical skills, and you can communicate via other channels other then face to face interaction.
• You are dedicated to self-improvement, and you are motivated.

Popular Distance Learning Programs:

In a few years, don't be surprised in distance learning completely takes over adult continuing education.  The potential of distance learning as a vehicle is just being realized.  With our rapidly advancing economy, the demand for skilled labor is increasing exponentially.  Just a 4 year will not be enough.  It will become relatively common for adults to continue their education online, while holding down a full time job.  Many adults also don't want to be bothered with the rigid admission standards of traditional universities, when all they are interested in is learning the material,instead of paying premium for a brand name of an institution.

During a job interview, you may want to point out that you were distance student.  It is doubtful that the question will be asked of you, but if you want to highlight your ability to be self motivated, this is a great opening.