What are the popular online degrees?
Written by Michael Feder
In today's fast-paced and rapidly evolving job market, learning new skills can be more important than ever before. However, not everyone has the time to attend a traditional brick-and-mortar university with in-person classes. Many learners need greater flexibility and convenience, which is why online degrees are increasing in popularity.
Online degrees can provide students with the opportunity to earn a degree from the comfort of their own homes and on their own schedules. However, the purpose of earning a degree is often to enhance your job prospects.
What are some online degrees to consider? It depends on your career goals and skills, but these seven online degrees can equip graduates with the knowledge to succeed in the workplace.
1. Nursing
Nursing degrees are usually called Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs. This program can provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the nursing profession.
Skills learned can include:
- Leadership and management skills
- Ethical decision making
- Patient-centered care
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Critical thinking and problem solving
Common courses can include:
- Nursing Practices
- Health Information Technology
- Integrity in Practice
Career path options can include:
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Nurse Manager
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Nurse Educator
2. Business Administration
Bachelor of Science in Business (BSB) degrees can give learners a better understanding of what it takes to run a corporate team or business. You’ll learn a variety of important business concepts like management and negotiation to prepare you for a variety of leadership roles.
Skills learned can include:
- Accounting and financial management
- Marketing and sales
- Business strategy and operations
- Leadership and management skills
- Communication and interpersonal skills
Common courses can include:
- Business Communications
- Organizational Behavior
- Inclusive Leadership
Career path options can include:
- Business Manager
- Entrepreneur
- Marketing Manager
- Financial Analyst
- Human Resources Manager
3. Accounting
Earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting can equip you with the skills to work as an accountant or in a financial management field. You’ll learn the basic principles of bookkeeping as well as business operations and ethics.
Skills learned can include:
- Financial accounting and reporting
- Cost accounting
- Auditing and assurance services
- Taxation
- Business law and ethics
Common courses can include:
- Introduction to Computer Applications and Systems
- Organizational Behavior
- Principles of Accounting
Career path options can include:
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Tax Consultant
4. Cybersecurity
A Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity can give you the skills to keep a business’s information technology (IT) systems safe and secure. Learn how to prevent cyber attacks as well as how to mitigate attacks in this online degree program.
Skills learned can include:
- Network security and cryptography
- Incident response and disaster recovery
- Cybercrime investigation and digital forensics
- Cybersecurity policy and law
- Risk management and compliance
Common courses can include:
- Foundations of Security
- Computer Network Defense
- Security Scripting
Career path options can include:
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Information Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Manager
- Network Security Engineer
5. Communication
A Bachelor of Science in Communication degree can give learners a wide range of experience to work in industries such as media, marketing and sales. Learn the foundations of clear communication and get hands-on experience using communication tools to enhance your career opportunities in multiple industries.
Skills learned can include:
- Effective communication in various settings
- Interpersonal and organizational communication
- Intercultural communication
- Media and public relations
- Advertising and marketing
Common courses can include:
- Introduction to Communication
- Logic and Rhetoric
- Interpersonal Communication
Career path options can include:
- Public Relations Specialist
- Advertising Account Executive
- Media Representative
- Journalist
6. Education
A Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education can teach you not only effective ways to teach young minds but also how to best support your students.
Skills learned can include:
- Curriculum design and assessment
- Instructional strategies and technology integration
- Classroom management and discipline
- Learning theories and development
- Collaboration and communication with parents, colleagues and administrators
Common courses can include:
- Foundations of Education
- Early Childhood Development
- Models of Instruction
Career path options can include:
- K-12 Teacher
- Instructional Coordinator
- Curriculum Developer
- Educational Administrator
7. Data science
An online data science degree can teach you the ins and outs of data gathering, cleansing, analysis and storage. This program can provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to collect, analyze and interpret data to inform decision making in a variety of industries.
Skills learned can include:
- Data collection, management and visualization
- Statistical analysis and modeling
- Machine learning and predictive analytics
- Big data technologies and tools
- Business acumen and critical thinking
Common courses can include:
- Foundations of Data Analytics
- Logic for Computer Programming
- Data Programming Languages
Career path options can include:
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Database Administrator
Educational options for top online degrees
These seven often in-demand degrees can give learners the skills necessary to enhance their careers. But it can feel overwhelming to choose a university for your online degree. Numerous online universities, like University of Phoenix, offer these degree programs in a flexible environment on your own schedule. When in doubt, opt for a university offering:
- A range of degree programs: If you want to go on to earn a master’s degree, look for universities that also offer advanced degrees in your desired field.
- Accredited programs: Accreditation is a seal of approval for a university’s academic rigor and quality.
- Experienced faculty: Look for courses taught by experienced faculty who are experts in their fields. They should bring real-world expertise to the classroom to equip you with the skills to succeed.
- A quality online experience: Attend a university with a proven process for online learning to avoid any technological hiccups.
At University of Phoenix, we strive to provide students with high-quality online degree programs that educationally prepare them for careers. Whether you're interested in healthcare, business, technology, education or communications, we have an online degree program that can help you pursue your goals.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and its Writing Seminars program and winner of the Stephen A. Dixon Literary Prize, Michael Feder brings an eye for detail and a passion for research to every article he writes. His academic and professional background includes experience in marketing, content development, script writing and SEO. Today, he works as a multimedia specialist at University of Phoenix where he covers a variety of topics ranging from healthcare to IT.
This article has been vetted by University of Phoenix's editorial advisory committee.
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