More than half of the students enrolled in college in fall 2023 took at least one online class, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Yet despite its popularity, misconceptions of online learning persist. If you’re considering going to college online, don’t fall prey to these common myths.

Myth #1: Online Education Is Easier Than In-Person Classes

Online programs from reputable institutions adhere to the same academic standards and accreditation requirements as on-campus programs. Your personal learning style and level of self-discipline are more likely to determine whether you find online learning difficult.

When you’re enrolled in an online program, you’re responsible for motivating yourself to attend school in the midst of the distractions and duties of life, such as managing a family or working. There’s no doubt that this requires excellent self-motivation and time-management skills. Many students thrive in this environment due to the increased flexibility and autonomy.

>>Read: FAQs About the Student Experience at Purdue Global and More

Myth #2: The Quality of the Education Is Lower

Most experts agree that there is little difference in the level of learning between online and traditional classroom experiences.

Online courses from accredited universities must meet the same curriculum requirements and academic standards as on-campus college courses. The quality of an accredited online program has less to do with how the information is distributed and more to do with factors such as the institution’s dedication to excellence, faculty credentials, and student success rates.

Learn more about Purdue Global’s robust academic support services and our Center for Career Advancement.

Myth #3: Employers Don’t View Online College Degrees the Same

That’s no longer the case. The widespread growth of online education has made employers far more comfortable with online degrees.

A 2024 job outlook survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers backs this up:

  • 87.4% of surveyed employers hired new college graduates with an online degree, prompting the organization to declare that employers see online degrees as comparable to in-person degrees.
  • 100% of employers reported that starting salaries were the same regardless of whether the degree was earned online or on a traditional campus.

Myth #4: Online Schools Don’t Accept Transfer Credits

A reputable online college will evaluate your past coursework and accept credits that meet its academic standards.

There may be other ways you can earn credits. For instance, at Purdue Global, you could earn credit for previously completed college courses, military training, or work experience.

>>More Information: Transferring College Credits and Experiential Learning With Purdue Global

Myth #5: Online Universities Are Not Accredited

Reputable online schools will have either national or regional accreditation. Look up who accredits the school and what their accreditation standards are. For instance, Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Certain programs have additional programmatic approvals and accreditation.

The Council of Higher Education Accreditation publishes an annual report that includes a list of accrediting bodies charged with evaluating colleges and universities. Use lists such as these to learn more about the institutional accreditation for the online or on-campus programs you’re considering.

Myth #6: You Don’t Interact With Your Instructor or Other Students

People may still assume online learning is isolating, but ask anyone who’s taken an online college course, and they’ll tell you — contact with instructors and other students can be just as frequent and animated as it is with traditional college.

Students in online learning programs regularly communicate with fellow students and faculty via discussion boards, video chats, and email. There may be group projects and breakout sessions to facilitate interaction and learning. Online faculty offer office hours during which they meet with students via phone calls, video conferencing, and/or chat.

In addition, Purdue Global offers dozens of student organizations to help you expand your network.

Online Learning: More Accessible Than Ever

Online learning offers flexible scheduling and individually tailored programs that fit your needs from respected and accredited educational institutions.

Learn how an online degree from Purdue Global can empower you and help you achieve your dreams. Request more information today.

See Notes and Conditions below for important information.

About the Author

Purdue Global

Earn a degree you're proud of and employers respect at Purdue Global, Purdue's online university for working adults. Accredited and online, Purdue Global gives you the flexibility and support you need to come back and move your career forward. Choose from 175+ programs, all backed by the power of Purdue.

Online Learning