A graduate degree qualification opens the doorway to several opportunities for engineering professionals. Not only does it help engineers find better, higher-paying jobs, but it also gives them a platform to grow as a person ready to take on the challenges of the real world.
Unfortunately, for many engineers, going to graduate school is not that easy. For some engineers, it is a matter of financial constraints, which require them to take on a job straight out of engineering college. While for others, there may be issues such as having old parents or young children to take care of. Either way, different situations in life can make it difficult for many engineers to take time for college.
While previously, there was little that could be done in such situations, that is no longer the case. Every year, more and more universities are introducing online programs targeted toward people who cannot attend regular classes.
Online degree programs have many benefits, such as flexible learning options, distance learning, and the ability to continue working full-time. However, it is important to ensure the online program you opt for is the right one for you and will add value to your career profile. Therefore, before selecting and finalizing an online degree, you must consider the following things:
1. Flexibility
When looking at options for online degrees, you must ensure the university schedule is flexible enough to manage it with your other commitments. For instance, the University of Illinois, Springfield, has a range of great MBA programs and graduate certificates designed specifically for working professionals. Hence, the UIS online programs offer five different sessions each year, allowing you to pick a start date that suits you. Before selecting a college, make sure that it caters to your schedule and gives you accommodative support so that your other responsibilities are not affected.
2. Accreditation
One of the important things for you to consider while choosing any degree program is whether or not a reputable body accredits the program. Many institutes offering degrees, especially online programs, are, in reality, not always registered or accredited by the Department of Education and other bodies. Therefore, you must ensure the program you opt for is duly accredited.
Moreover, if you choose a specialized program, look at its other accreditations and affiliations. Business schools, for example, with AACSB International accreditation, have a much higher ranking than others, as only 6% of business schools worldwide have earned this status. So check the affiliations and accreditations of the schools you are considering to find one that can boost your career.
3. Tuition and financial aid
College is expensive, and choosing a program on the higher end of that range can put a serious dent in your savings. You might even find yourself having to take out student loans to pay for your education.
Instead of burdening yourself this way, it’s better to find a program that either falls within your affordability or offers financial aid options you are eligible for. For instance, many colleges offer graduate degrees and certificates in the same subject, with the latter being a fraction of the former’s cost. Since the course curriculum is more or less the same, the employment opportunities are also quite similar for both qualifications. Opting for a graduate course can add the same value to your profile for less than half the cost of a graduate degree.
4. Job placement
Unless you have a genuine passion for education and research, the only reason anyone opts for a graduate degree is to improve their employability and add value to their résumé. Therefore, it is only logical to check the placement statistics for students who have already completed the course you’re considering.
Most colleges and universities mention job placement rates for former students on their official websites. But if you can’t find them, try doing a simple Google search. You’ll likely find the results on a third-party website that provides information and guidance about different colleges and programs.
If that also doesn’t work, you can request the information directly from the college. All universities maintain placement records of their alumni and will be happy to share the information with prospective students.
5. Research and innovation
In today’s age of science and technology, everything from teaching techniques to traditional business and science concepts is constantly changing and evolving. However, many universities and instructors prefer to live as ‘dinosaurs,’ hanging on to the age-old ancient concepts and techniques as if their lives depend on them. Studying at such a college doesn’t benefit a student, as you end up consuming outdated knowledge, which is of little use in the modern corporate world.
Therefore, research the college and its overall dedication to research and innovation. An easy way is to check third-party online rankings such as the “Most Innovative Online Colleges” rankings by the Online Schools Centre website. If your college has a good ranking, you can be sure your chosen course will train you for today’s competitive job market.
6. Student support
Online programs are great, but they also have drawbacks, such as not always having physical access to your professors and difficulties executing collaborative group tasks. What makes these problems easier is having a good student support service, such as dedicated staff ensuring technology needs are met and policies that allow online students to have direct communication with their instructors.
To get the most out of your chosen program, you must ensure that the college has a system that caters to online students. Therefore, speak to the program lead appointed by the college and find out what student support services are offered to online students before making your decision.
Conclusion
The competition in today’s job market is beyond intense, and an added qualification can help you find a good opportunity. Just be sure to do your homework properly before choosing a college and a program, keeping in mind all the above points. By taking the time and doing thorough research on your options, you can be sure to make a decision that will add great value to your profile and make you a much more employable candidate.
