Are online degree courses & regular offline courses of the same value?

The perception of online programs has changed significantly in the past decade. The popularity of online degree programs and courses has risen over the years for multiple reasons. Today, most employers and educational institutes understand that an online degree is as efficient and educational as a regular degree program.

It is only a myth that online degrees are different from offline or on-campus degrees. Except the mode of learning, online and offline degrees are the same. 

Similarities between offline and online degrees

Same degree: With offline degrees, students need to attend college/university regularly and appear for examinations. In an online degree, from the admission process to examinations, everything takes place virtually. Otherwise, both offline and online programs provide the same degree. For instance, whether you pursue an MBA in the offline or online mode, you will graduate with the same degree. 

Recognition: Online degrees and on-campus degrees are equally valued and recognized. Online degrees offered by universities are entitled by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and some of them are also accredited by NAAC. This means an online degree is equally valued by employers as an on-campus degree. 

Curriculum: The program curriculum of online and offline degrees are the same. According to UGC, the curriculum of online degrees must remain the same as on-campus degrees. Some universities can choose to include additional subjects in the online mode, however, the basic syllabus remains the same.

Placement: Several universities offering online degrees today also provide placement assistance. The placement process in online degrees is the same as on-campus placements. 

Read more: Reasons to consider an online degree this academic year

Benefits of pursuing online degree

Flexibility & accessibility: Students pursuing online degrees can study anywhere, anytime. You can study from the comfort of your home or even while traveling. Online degrees are flexible in the sense that you can attend live classes on weekends and also access recorded classes anytime during the day. Online degrees are especially beneficial for working professionals, you can take up the program without quitting their jobs.

Affordability: Online degrees are more affordable than on-campus degrees, since students don’t have to spend on travel and don’t have to pay for on-campus features. This way, online degrees are cost-effective and cater to learners from all walks of life. 

Enhanced digital learning platform: With the help of Online Manipal’s integrated learning management system (LMS), you can interact and collaborate with peers and faculty virtually.

You can also take up online quizzes and tests. 

Study at your own pace: The e-learning material can be accessed anytime through the digital learning platform. You can access recorded classes in case you missed the online sessions. 

Experienced faculty: Just like any on-campus program, faculty members for online programs too are experienced and experts in their fields. Faculty members can use multimedia tools while explaining complex concepts in the virtual mode. 

Placement assistance: Most universities providing online degree programs provide placement assistance to students. For instance, Online Manipal’s placement cell improves the employability quotient of learners and helps them land jobs of their interest.

Read more: Will an online degree get you a job?

Explore online degrees on Online Manipal

With Online Manipal, you can explore online undergraduate degrees, post graduate degrees and certificate programs from top universities including Manipal university Jaipur (MUJ), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), T.A. Pai Management Institute (TAPMI) and Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT). You can explore online degree programs including BBA, MBA, BCA, MCA, MCom, BCom, MSc, MA JMC and PGCP. 

All online degree programs available on the Online Manipal website are UGC-entitled. Online Manipal also offers easy financing options to students. Government employers, people with disabilities and defense personnel can avail scholarship options. 

Online Manipal has a dedicated placement cell that trains students to help them land lucrative careers. To help these students, we maintain an extensive network with the best companies across India – both well-established ones as well as young start-ups. Our aim is to ensure that graduates of our programmes are matched to the right set of career opportunities aligned to their career aspirations, and to companies looking for the right kind of talent. 

Read more: Top online degree courses to upskill yourself