Are Online Secondary Education Degrees Legit?

Students around the world can remember a time when a teacher greatly influenced and impacted their lives for the better. It's no secret that teachers take on a significant role in shaping students during their formative years.

To get started in a teaching position quickly, students may choose an online degree for secondary education.

There is one main question many aspiring educators ask themselves: Are online secondary education degree legitimate? The short answer is yes, as long as the degree comes from an accredited school.

Do Employers Respect Online Secondary Education Degrees?

Yes, employers do respect online secondary education degree programs, as long as the program is from a reputable, accredited institution.

Most employers are more concerned about the quality of education and applicable experience that can ensure you are ready to dive into the professional career of teaching than the method you earned the degree.

Students can take some preliminary steps to make sure they're applying to the best-accredited universities online.

What To Look for in an Online Secondary Education Degree Program

In a world with seemingly limitless options, it can be a challenge to figure out which programs are better than others. Without a physical campus to attend, you may not be aware of the course offerings until you're already enrolled.

Here are some ways to ensure you're going to school with a good reputation.

Accreditation

Check the school's accreditation to start. This is an essential component because students may not be eligible for federal financial aid (FAFSA), scholarships, or grants unless they are enrolled at an accredited university.

Accreditation can come from the national regional level and is typically granted through a third-party council. This council checks the program offerings at the university and compares them against current regulations and best practices in that particular industry, further ensuring the quality of the program.

Before applying, verify the accreditation of your education program.

Reputation

A school's reputation can say a lot about what it's like to be a student there. Schools with a positive alumni reputation and flexibility with their students may also have more resources geared toward student success.

If a school has a positive reputation with faculty, that may also mean that professors aren't overworked or burnt out. This can help determine how much access you'll have to a professor outside of the classroom.

Nonprofit Vs. For-Profit Degrees

Nonprofit and for-profit degrees are typically different based on the type of education provided, the college culture, and the overall cost of tuition.

A for-profit college may have more student resources on and off campus, and may also offer highly niche or concentrated areas of study. However, for-profit colleges tend to cost more intuition, and may not offer as many scholarships and grants.

A nonprofit college typically costs less in tuition and may also have a higher acceptance rate. These colleges are sometimes easier to become enrolled in, though they may have fewer student resources. Additionally, classes may be larger.

Graduation Rates

Take a close look at the graduation rates for your top choice colleges. If a college has higher graduation rates, that usually means that more student resources are available. This may include free tutoring, inexpensive textbooks, or accessible technology to rent.

These colleges are usually more focused on getting their students to graduation, and ultimately to succeed.

Differences Between Online Secondary Education Degrees and Traditional Secondary Education Degrees

The primary difference between online secondary education degrees and traditional secondary education degrees is the format in which your classes take place.

Online secondary education degrees are achieved through a series of remote classes and individualized coursework. The curriculum is focused on self-directed assignments and online exams and may place a lesser emphasis on group work.

A traditional secondary education takes place on campus. This requires students to report to a specific location for their class that is held at a synchronized time. students may have a wider variety of projects within a group and may also spend additional time on campus for teacher office hours.

Benefits of Earning Your Secondary Education Degree at an Online School

The benefits of earning an online secondary education degree depend on the student. Typically students who are working while they are obtaining their degree may benefit from an online program because of the synchronized format.

Since online students do not have to report to campus, they save time and can usually complete their projects when is most convenient for them. These students may also save on transportation and parking costs.

Featured Online Secondary Education Degree Programs

When searching for an online degree in secondary education, there are a few programs that stand at the top of the list. The below options are accredited and 100% online.

1. Grand Canyon University

Outside of the 22+ degrees centered around education, Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers three specifically for secondary education. Students have their choices between bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, certifications, and licensure programs that help prepare them for a career in education at any stage.

• Online BA in English for secondary education
• Online BA in history for secondary education
• Online MA in reading: secondary education

2. Worcester State University

While this program is a general Master of Science in education, Worcester State University (WSU) prepares professionals for any area of education they're interested in.

This program is designed for teaching professionals post-undergraduate. It's accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and can be completed in as little as 12 months.

• Online MS in education

3. Chaminade University of Honolulu

Online students enrolled through the Chaminade University of Honolulu will be well-prepared for a career in working with grades 7 through 12. This program was also voted as #1 for best online secondary education degrees through Forbes.

• Online BS in secondary education

4. Merrimack College

This master's of education program offered either online or on-campus was approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and is aligned with the Massachusetts Professional Standards for Teachers.

• Online MA in middle and high school education

5. American International College

American International College (AIC) offers an online program to prepare professionals with a managerial-level position in secondary education. The doctorate in education is a great option for teachers who wish to take the next step in their career.

• Online EdD in education