2020 saw a large surge in online learning and distance learning for obvious reasons. But these trends are not just for elementary and middle schools in the midst of a pandemic, in fact, online education has been growing for degree-seeking programs in Universities for years.
And all trends, stats, and predictions seem to point to the continuation of the growth of online education programs in universities and higher education.
Why Will Online Education Programs Continue to Thrive?
Flexibility when it comes to scheduling and convenience are two of the most important factors for many young adults going to Universities, or older adults going back to school for a field change. And because 2020 and the pandemic showed America that online education, especially at higher levels, can work quite well, we expect more and more students to migrate to distance learning over traditional, in-person classes.
However, if this trend continues, then more universities will need to offer more online education programs and classes. As the number of enrollees goes up, higher education institutions will also need to expand their degree-seeking online program offerings as a strategic response to the public’s demand.
Why Are Students Choosing Online Education Programs?
- It may be the best fit for their work and life responsibilities
- It could be their preferred way of learning
- There may not be their program offered near them
Which Online Education Programs & Certifications Are Quickly Growing?
Physician Assistant & Nurse Practitioner
In addition to completing graduate-level courses, every state requires physician assistants and nurse practitioners to be licensed. And though this is a lengthier process, it can pay off largely, as the average salary is over $100,000 per year and the expected growth rate for the area continues steadily over 35%.
Online Degree Options: Master’s in Physician Assistance or MSN-NP/DNP Programs
Software Developers
Software is constantly changing, which means software developers are valued for both their creativity and their technical know-how. And when you consider a bachelor’s in computer science is all that’s needed for entry-level positions, there is significant job security in that degree. There is also an expected 30%+ growth rate for the next 10 years. Plus, the average salary is often over $100,000 per year. This will surely be an area many future distance learners look into.
Online Degree Options: Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Master’s in Computer Science
Information Security Analysts
Cyber-attacks and data security are becoming top concerns in our growing digital age, which means information security analysts will most likely be needed even more in the future than they already are now. And though online degrees are readily available in the field of information systems and cybersecurity, with projected growth rates nearing 30% and salaries over $95,000, more programs, and programs with specialties, are sure to be needed.
Online Degree Options: Information Systems and Cyber Security
