The advantages of pursuing an online master's degree

A master’s degree is a tried-and-true method for career advancement, salary increases, and greater opportunities, but it also requires a huge investment of both time and money. For many, this investment in an advanced degree is a significant barrier – one that helps explain the rising popularity of online master’s degrees.

How an online master’s degree is structured and delivered

Like a traditional on-campus programme, an online master's degree or MBA programme is crafted to provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. In fact, in terms of content, online programmes mirror their on-campus counterparts – they just offer greater flexibility to students. This flexibility is achieved through:

• Technology. Digital learning platforms are used to deliver coursework, lectures, and other interactive sessions. Through these systems, work and learning is assigned, submitted, and assessed. This learning environment and structure allows students to engage with their course materials, participate in forums or other group discussions, and collaborate with their instructors or fellow students on project work, all online. 
• Remote access. The virtual nature of online master’s degrees means that students can study from anywhere in the world, whether it’s at home, at work, or in a different country entirely. As long as they have a computer and internet connection, distance learning ensures they can carry on their higher education studies regardless of their circumstances.
• Self-paced study. Many online degree programmes allow students to study at their own pace, usually part-time, so they can work through modules or assignments around personal or family commitments, or existing full-time jobs.

Why students choose to study a master’s degree online

Flexibility

One of the most-cited reasons for the growing popularity of online master’s degrees is their flexibility – they ensure that students can adapt their studies to their personal circumstances. This means that students can better balance their coursework with flexible scheduling around their other responsibilities, and advance their careers without taking a break from work or making other significant sacrifices.

Career prospects

A master’s degree is, essentially, a career accelerator. It can help progress an existing career, ease the transition into a new one, and give graduates a better chance at high-skilled employment. 

“Having a relevant master’s degree could give you a crucial competitive edge in a crowded job market – employers are increasingly looking for ways to distinguish between candidates, and this higher-level qualification shows your ability to commit to an intense period of work,” adds Prospects, the graduate job site.

An online master’s degree does all of this, but it also means that online students can enhance their career prospects in real time, developing advanced knowledge and specialised skills during their studies, and applying the latest insights and practices in their current roles at the same time, potentially strengthening their case for a promotion or increased earning potential.

Accessibility 

Online master's programmes arguably democratise access to quality education, removing geographical and logistical barriers. This means that students can enroll in top-tier programmes without the need for commuting or relocating, making graduate degrees more accessible to a broader audience. 

Online master’s degrees, like on-campus programmes or undergraduate bachelor’s degrees, are also often eligible for financial aid options, such as student loans. Many also structure their tuition fees on a per-module model, making them more financially feasible for many.

Shifting employer perceptions of online master’s degrees

In the past, online degrees and grads were sometimes met with skepticism or even outright dismissal. But employer perceptions of online master's degrees have shifted significantly in recent years.

With the increasing prevalence of online education and the accreditation of online programmes by reputable bodies, employers now recognise the value and legitimacy of online qualifications. In fact, graduates of online master’s programmes are often viewed as self-motivated and adept at time management, qualities highly valued in the workplace.

Potential challenges for online master’s students – and how to overcome them

Despite its many advantages, online learning also comes with a unique set of challenges. However, by recognising these obstacles and employing strategies to overcome them, students can significantly enhance their learning experiences – and outcomes.

Challenge 1: time management

Challenge: Balancing coursework with personal and professional commitments can be daunting for online students, especially those studying part-time while working full-time or managing family responsibilities.

Solution: Effective time management is key. Create a structured study schedule that fits within existing commitments and stick to it. Use digital tools and apps designed to enhance productivity and time management, or help you manage your own schedule. Set clear, achievable goals for each study session to help maintain focus and momentum.

Challenge 2: lack of in-person interaction

Challenge: When enrolling for an online degree, students often worry they’ll miss out on the spontaneous interactions and networking opportunities that come with on-campus programmes, which can lead to feelings of isolation.

Solution: Actively participate in online forums, group projects, and virtual networking events. Many programmes also offer online student groups or virtual study sessions to foster a sense of community. Reaching out to fellow students and academic staff via chat or video calls can also help build connections, and lead to in-person events and meetings, too.

Challenge 3: self-motivation

Challenge: Without the structure of in-person classes, online learners often need a high degree of self-motivation to stay engaged and complete coursework.

Solution: Set personal milestones and create rewards for achieving them. It can also be helpful to remind yourself of your career goals and the reasons you chose to pursue an online master’s degree – keeping your end goals in sight can serve as a powerful motivator.

Challenge 4: technological issues

Challenge: Reliance on technology means that technical difficulties can disrupt learning, whether it’s an unstable internet connection, software problems, or navigating new digital platforms.

Solution: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and backup options, such as access to public Wi-Fi in libraries or cafes. Familiarise yourself with the learning platforms and software before online classes begin, and don't hesitate to seek support from the university or graduate school’s tech support team when needed.

Challenge 5: adapting to different learning styles

Challenge: Online courses often require a different approach to learning, with a greater emphasis on written communication and self-directed study, which may not suit all learning styles.

Solution: Experiment with different learning techniques to find what works best for you. This might include visual aids, summarising materials in your own words, or discussing topics with peers. Most importantly, communicate with your instructors or course provider about your learning needs; they can provide additional resources or advice to support your learning style.

Pursue online education with an MBA from St Mary’s University

Prepare to meet the unique challenges of business today with a 100% online Master of Business Administration (MBA) from St Mary’s University. We’re recognised for our research-enriched teaching and outstanding student satisfaction, and our flexible MBA programmes are tailored to busy working professionals and people with family commitments, so you can achieve your career goals and reach your full potential with minimum disruption to your everyday life. 

There are a variety of study options to suit your ambitions, with a core MBA programme and the choice to specialise in one of 10 industry-aligned areas: accounting, marketing and digital marketing, entrepreneurship, finance, healthcare management, human resources management, project management, and supply chain management. 

For more information, such as programme-specific details, fee information, and entry requirements, including English language requirements, please visit the St Mary’s University website.