An online master’s degree often features some unique aspects that are designed to foster skill building and prepare those who are interested in a career change. These curriculums are often streamlined to maximize the impact of your education while still offering helpful access to a cohort of peers and supportive faculty. Skill-building components are often strongly embedded in online programs through project-based learning, connecting with professionals already in the field, or even a brief in-person residency in certain cases. These opportunities are important for career changers who likely have no or minimal experience in their new field.
For those switching professions and who need to build a new skillset more quickly, an online certificate program may be a better option. With a certificate program, students can experience graduate-level education for less investment of time and budget while fostering in-demand skills.
Furthermore, working your way through an online master’s degree program builds a variety of transferable skills that your future employers in your new field will find attractive. Completing an online program demonstrates your strong self-motivation, time management, and ability to learn independently. In addition, you have the opportunity to connect with a unique, diverse group of people collaboratively utilizing technology. It’s an exciting way to build professional relationships in your new field. For online coursework, writing is often the primary mode of communication, which offers the space and time to foster this skill crucial to success in the modern workplace. In today’s workplace, where remote work is becoming commonplace, these are excellent skills to nurture and grow.
For career changers, pursuing an online master’s degree focused on advanced, more specialized skills and professional growth is one of the best ways to prepare for their switch to another profession.