A Checklist for Entering a Master’s Degree Program Online

There are many aspects to consider when choosing an online master’s degree program. Not only do students need to identify their career goals and take into account the format of the program they are interested in, but also potential financial factors. Ensuring the value of the degree program is important to meeting your long-term goals, and individual needs.

Online Master’s Program: Consider This

Each student requires a different set of qualities from his or her master’s degree program. There are a variety of factors to be weighed, some more obvious than others, including choosing a school that offers a degree program that matches your interests and provides the best quality education to advance your career. When researching potential programs, take into account the following:

Step 1: The Program and You

With a variety of schools and degree programs available for students to choose from, the first step in determining the best fit for your needs is to identify your long-term career goals. Pursuing a master’s degree is intended to advance a career in a specific field or help you enter a new career. Speak with hiring managers in a given company or occupation to gain insight into the ideal types of degrees they look for in candidates seeking employment. Once specific career goals are determined, recognizing if a master’s degree program will enhance the chances of achieving these goals will guide you toward the most appropriate program.

Three questions to ask yourself:
• Where do I see myself working in 5-10 years?
• What position am I seeking in this specific field?
• Do I strive to be a leader in the industry?

Step 2: Identify the Online Class Format

Once career goals are identified and individuals are in the process of researching which universities offer their desired online degree program, the next step is to examine the format in which classes are delivered. Some students prefer to study independently, at their own pace, while managing their time accordingly. Others may prefer encouragement through interaction and discussion with classmates through online discussion forums.

Although many online degree programs do not require students to visit their physical campus, there are some that do. As you consider online master’s degree programs that are out-of-state, take into account any potential requirements for a campus visit that may involve travel arrangements.

Step 3: Research the School Itself

The third step is to research is the reputation and accreditation of the degree program. Choosing a reputable institution that offers programs with reasonable admission requirements will help ensure that you are pursuing a degree program that provides an advantage when looking for employment after graduation. Universities that offer accredited programs are typically recognized by industry organizations and offer programs that meet their education standards. Other aspects to look at when choosing a specific school include:

• Admission requirements
• Available financial aid or financial resources
• Instructor backgrounds
• Geographic location and any potential on-campus requirements

Enroll Today!

Finding a program that offers the best education possible, flexibility and affordable tuition that also supports your career goals are all things to deliberate when choosing an online master’s degree program.

Would you like more information about the online graduate program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Antioch University? Request more information or call (855) 792-1049 to speak with an Admission Adviser today.