Do I Hire Someone with an Online Degree?

When reviewing applicants, many employers look at the education section with barely a glance as long as they have a degree. However, if they recognize the school as an online degree program, it may cause them to pause.

Should they hire someone who went to college "online" or will that person be qualified?

Is it Real Education?

Some small business employers think that an online degree program is not a real education.

It doesn't teach students the same information that they would learn in a traditional class. The truth is that if a school is accredited, it must meet specific requirements.

Most employers are more accepting of online education when it is one option offered by a traditional college or university.

Many schools are now offering classes or even entire programs online to allow more students to participate. Institutions that are online only don't fare as well with many employers because they are unsure of the quality of the education.

Look at the Big Picture

When considering an employee with an online degree, first focus on where the degree was obtained.

Check out the school and find out if it is accredited and if it offers a combination of traditional and online learning. Read reviews about the school to get an idea about its reputation.

Look at the other information you have on the applicant.

Many people take online classes if they are working a full-time job or have a family and can't attend classes. Adults often choose online education opportunities if they have been out of school for several years and want to further their education.

An online degree can actually be an indication of a person that is hard-working and dedicated. If they went back to school after being in the workforce for a few years, they probably take their education seriously and will have the same attitude about a job with you.

Reputation

The reputation of the school will be a primary factor in many employers' attitudes about a degree program.

As the article, “What Do Employers Think of an Online Degree” says, jobs that require specialized skills will be more scrutinized. Employers often know what students learn at different schools and have positive and negative opinions about each one.

Many small business owners prefer a traditional format if they have a conservative view of the job market and the hiring process. Those in innovative startups will be more willing to think outside of the box.

In either case, you should look for the best applicant with the knowledge and experience that you need. That may come from a traditional university, an online college or a combination.

If you are faced with the decision of which applicant is best for the job, don't let where the education was received be the sole factor for your choice.

It may be worth consideration, but many other aspects of the application and interview will also have an impact on your decision.

A degree only tells part of the story.