isworthit

Is an Online Degree Worth the Money?

2024 data · Last updated 2026-07-05

The verdict

Yes if it's regionally accredited and you need the flexibility — for working adults, online degrees from reputable public and nonprofit schools now carry essentially the same value as on-campus ones. The risk is expensive for-profit programs with weak outcomes, so vet accreditation and reputation carefully.

The trade-off

Typical cost
Varies widely; often similar tuition to on-campus but saves room/board & commuting; some low-cost competency-based programs
Typical outcome
Accredited online degrees from established universities carry the same credential value; for-profit/unaccredited ones risk poor employer recognition
Breakeven
Good if regionally accredited & from a recognized school; the diploma usually doesn't say 'online'

What changes the answer

  • regional accreditation
  • school reputation (name on diploma)
  • self-discipline for online format
  • employer perception in your field

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Flexibility to study while working
  • Often cheaper (no relocation/commute)
  • Same degree value from accredited public/nonprofit schools
  • Access to programs regardless of location
  • Self-paced options at many schools

Cons

  • For-profit programs can be costly with weak outcomes
  • Requires strong self-discipline
  • Less in-person networking and mentorship
  • Lingering stigma in some fields/employers
  • Accreditation quality varies widely

Who it's for

✓ A good fit if…

  • Working adults needing flexibility
  • Self-disciplined, independent learners
  • People choosing accredited public/nonprofit schools

✗ Probably not if…

  • People who need in-person structure
  • Those in fields that value on-campus networks
  • Anyone tempted by expensive for-profit programs

What people are actually asking

Real Reddit discussions on whether Online Degree is worth it — titles link to the original threads.

FAQ

Are online degrees worth it and respected?

From regionally accredited public and nonprofit schools, yes — the degree generally carries the same value as on-campus, with added flexibility for working adults. The risk is expensive for-profit programs with weak outcomes, so vet accreditation and reputation before enrolling.

Sources