Explore the benefits of online master's degrees and debunk common misconceptions about online learning.
In recent years, universities and other higher education institutions have radically changed the ways in which they deliver education. Historically, those who sought to pursue master’s degrees had to attend lectures in-person, relocate to their university city, and likely put their career on hold during their studies.
Online degrees have completely changed this by giving people the freedom to pursue postgraduate study from anywhere and fitting it around their existing commitments. Yet, despite its growing popularity, online education still faces its fair share of misconceptions and scepticism.
In this blog post, we'll explore some common questions and misconceptions about online learning, so that you can make a more informed decision about your future.
What is online learning?
Online learning (or distance learning) refers to the delivery of education through the internet. The university provides all its course materials and learning resources to students via a virtual learning environment, which can be accessed via web browser. The virtual learning environment acts as a central hub, where students can join live online seminars, submit their assignments, and view grades and feedback from their tutors.
Since online learning is designed to be globally accessible, students can also access replays of webinars, message their tutors, and engage with their peers in discussion forums. As an online master’s student, you can access your study resources online 24/7 and fit your studies around your existing commitments.
Key questions about online learning
Is online study effective?
Absolutely. The study materials and resources you get access to are of equal quality to those you’d receive as an on-campus student. On top of this, since you’re studying part-time at your own pace, you can take time to digest information and re-read presentation slides. It’s also worth highlighting an often-overlooked benefit of online learning: it cultivates crucial digital literacy skills that are sought-after by employers everywhere.
Can I really fit my degree studies around a full-time job?
Yes, you can. Our courses are designed with busy working professionals in mind. If you’re committed to personal growth and have the right time management skills, you’ll be able to complete your master’s degree in the two-year time frame of the course. For a general idea of how much time you’ll need to put aside, we recommend devoting around 20-25 hours per week to your studies if you’re opting for an online course at King’s. Students often fit their study time in after work, during their commute, or during weekends, for example.
Will I receive support during my studies?
Yes. Contrary to popular belief, online learning doesn't involve learning in isolation. Most reputable institutions provide robust support services to online students. For example, if you join King’s as an online student, you’ll have a dedicated Student Support Advisor. Whether you need wellbeing support, onboarding advice, career services or help navigating the virtual learning environment, they'll be your first point of contact.
In addition to this, we offer students a range of academic support resources through our KASL (King’s Academic Skills for Learning) platform. Your tutors are also just a message away, and your peers across the globe can also be a fantastic source of support when you need it.
Is online learning respected by employers?
Absolutely. As online learning becomes more mainstream, employers recognise the value of degrees earned through reputable online programmes. What matters most to employers is the quality of education and the skills you acquire, rather than the mode of study. Moreover, the ability to balance professional commitments with academic pursuits demonstrates valuable qualities such as time management, self-discipline, and adaptability.
Will I miss out on networking opportunities?
Not necessarily. While it's true that online learning may lack the face-to-face interaction of studying an on-campus course, it doesn't mean you'll miss out on networking opportunities. Many courses and universities hold virtual networking events, create alumni networks, and provide professional development resources to help students connect with peers, industry professionals, and potential employers.
Addressing the misconceptions
The myth: Online learning is easy and requires less effort.
The reality: Online learning requires just as much dedication and effort as traditional learning, if not more. While it offers flexibility, it also demands rigorous self-discipline, effective time management skills, and proactive engagement with course materials.
The myth: Online degrees are less credible than traditional degrees.
The reality: Online master’s degrees carry just as much weight as traditional degrees and undergo the same rigorous validation processes. The course content and modules are also designed by academics from the university, so both online and traditional degrees have the same level of quality and prestige. Only the mode of study is different.
It’s also worth noting that with King’s, your degree certificate won’t specify that you studied online. It will be identical to those received by graduates of on-campus courses, which reflects your equal level of expertise, knowledge and dedication to academic enquiry.
The myth: Online learning is only suitable for certain subjects or learners.
The reality: Online learning covers a wide range of disciplines and is suitable for people from all backgrounds. Whether you're pursuing a degree in business, healthcare, technology or graphic design, there will be an online master’s course tailored to your needs. Most learning resources will come in a variety of mediums to cover varied learning styles, too – so as a student, you could learn through case studies, presentations, book extracts, videos, and research publications, for example.
Unlock your potential with online learning
Online degree courses are the ultimate way for busy working professionals to level up their expertise from anywhere while maintaining their existing commitments. At King’s, we’re proud to deliver world-class educational excellence and prestige to enquiring minds across the globe, and empower graduates to drive meaningful change.
Whether you're a working professional seeking career advancement, a parent looking to upskill before you return to work, or an expert looking to change the trajectory of your career, online learning can open doors to a world of knowledge and possibilities. So why wait? Take charge of your future and start looking into 100% online master’s degree courses:
