Online Master’s Degree vs Traditional Master’s Degree

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 posted by Janice Mueller

Online Master’s Degree vs Traditional Master’s Degree – Which is Better?

Now that the advancements of technology have hit the field of education, students have more options than they previous had 10-15 years ago when looking to earn a graduate degree. Today there is still a debate as to which is a better method of learning: online master’s degree vs traditional master’s degree. When making a decision for yourself, it’s important to know the similarities and differences between the two programs so that you have find the right method of earning your master’s degree.

Post University

Online Master's Degree vs Traditional Master's Degree

Post University is licensed by the State of Connecticut through the Department of Higher Education (DHE). The purpose of licensure by the State of Connecticut is to ensure that any new institutions, and its academic programs (traditional classroom and online), comply with the quality standards required to begin operations in the state.

Post University offers bachelor’s in science and arts programs intended to help students develop a detailed knowledge of their chosen field; understand and be able to use industry terminology; gain a practical and comprehensive understanding of the programs that they are enrolled in; and to advance in their studies.

Post University offers the following Master’s Degrees:

Master’s in Human Services
Master’s in Human Services – Alcohol and Drug Counseling
Master’s in Human Services – Clinical Counseling
Master’s in Human Services – Program Administration
Master of Business Administration
Master of Business Administration – Corporate Innovation
Master of Business Administration – Entrepreneurship
Master of Business Administration – Finance
Master of Business Administration – Leadership
Master of Business Administration – Marketing
Master of Education
Master of Education – Instructional Design and Technology
Master of Education – Teaching and Learning
Master of Public Administration

Read more or get a program guide from Post University.

Online Master’s Degree vs Traditional Master’s Degree

Online master’s degree programs are available in a variety of subjects including education, business administration, criminal justice, religious studies, psychology, information technology, and more. Online programs take the same amount of time to earn as a traditional master’s degree, and some colleges even offer their master’s degrees in an accelerated format. As long as the programs are given by an accredited institution, you will find that you will take the same courses in an online master’s degree as you will in a traditional program.

There is of course one blatant difference between an online master’s degree vs traditional master’s degree programs; the method of delivery. Online master’s degrees can be earned from your home computer and internet connection, whereas a traditional master’s degree program requires you to attend class in the traditional manner of sitting in a classroom with your fellow students. Online master’s degrees do put you in courses with students, but it is a rare occasion that you will meet up with your classmates or your instructor face-to-face.

Courses, exams, and assignments are all completed online through the online master’s degree program. You will also be able to watch video lectures and complete class readings online through the student portal. The benefit of this type of learning is that you can always “rewind” the lectures and listen to them again in case you missed something.

Overall, when debating between an online master’s degree vs traditional master’s degree programs, it will come down to personal preference. Online programs take a great deal of dedication, motivation and focus. If you can work well on your own and stay disciplined enough to complete your coursework at your own time, then you may want to consider that type of program. Otherwise, a traditional master’s degree program may be the best format for you.