Do Employers Dislike Online Degrees? Facts, Myths & How to Stand Out

TL;DR:

• Most employers judge candidates on skills, not the delivery mode of the degree.
• Accredited online programs from reputable universities are increasingly accepted.
• Fields like IT, data science, and business see the highest acceptance rates.
• Showcase projects, certifications, and real‑world results to offset any bias.
• Address misconceptions head‑on in your resume and interview.

What Is an online degree?

An online degree is a formal academic credential earned through a university’s virtual learning platform. It follows the same curriculum, assessment standards, and accreditation processes as a campus‑based program, but the delivery happens via video lectures, discussion forums, and digital assignments. In 2024, more than 25% of all bachelor‑level graduates in Australia earned at least part of their qualification online.

Do Employers Really Dislike Them?

Surveys from the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) and LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends report show a nuanced picture:

• 71% of recruiters say the online degree label does not change their assessment if the institution is accredited.
• Only 19% admit to a conscious bias against online credentials, usually stemming from unfamiliarity with the program.
• Employers in tech, finance, and marketing rank online graduates on par with traditional graduates for entry‑level roles.

So the answer isn’t a simple “yes.” Bias exists, but it’s largely conditional on the employer’s knowledge and the field of work.

Key Factors Employers Look At

When a hiring manager glances at a CV, they evaluate several attributes beyond the mode of study:

1. Accreditation: Is the university recognized by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)?
2. Reputation of the institution: High‑ranked schools carry more weight regardless of delivery.
3. Skill evidence: Portfolios, code samples, or case studies that prove you can apply what you learned.
4. Relevant experience: Internships, freelance projects, or part‑time jobs that align with the role.
5. Soft‑skill signals: communication, self‑discipline, and time‑management - traits often associated with successful online learners.

Fields Where Online Degrees Shine

Some industries have embraced digital credentials faster than others. Below is a quick snapshot:

Tech‑centric roles lead the pack, while fields that require licensure (e.g., nursing, teaching) still lean heavily toward on‑campus qualifications.

How to Position Your Online Degree on a Resume

Formatting matters. Follow this structure to make the degree stand out:

• Header: List the degree, university name, and note “Online” in parentheses.
• Accreditation badge: If the program is accredited, add a brief line - “Accredited by TEQSA.”
• Projects section: Highlight capstone or industry‑partner projects with measurable outcomes.
• Skills grid: Translate coursework into hard skills (e.g., “Advanced SQL - 95% proficiency”).

Example:

Bachelor of Information Technology (Online)
University of South Australia - Accredited by TEQSA
Capstone Project: Built a cloud‑based inventory system that reduced client order errors by 23%.
Relevant Skills: Python, AWS, Agile Scrum.

Common Myths About Online Degrees - Debunked

Myth 1: “Online programs are easier.” Reality: Rigorous universities maintain identical assessments and grading rubrics for both delivery modes.

Myth 2: “Employers can’t verify online credentials.” Reality: Digital diplomas come with tamper‑proof verification URLs that HR software can scan instantly.

Myth 3: “You miss out on networking.” Reality: Many programs host virtual career fairs, alumni Slack channels, and industry mentorships that rival in‑person events.

Pro Tips to Beat Any Residual Bias

1. Leverage endorsements: Ask professors or project supervisors for LinkedIn recommendations that mention the online format.
2. Earn complementary micro‑credentials: Platforms like Coursera, edX, or industry certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect) show continuous learning.
3. Quantify achievements: Numbers speak louder than titles - “Increased website traffic by 40% after implementing SEO tactics learned online.”
4. Prepare a concise narrative: In interviews, explain why you chose the online route (flexibility, self‑discipline) and how it equipped you for remote work.
5. Show tech‑savviness: Mention tools you mastered - Git, JIRA, Zoom - which are daily in many modern workplaces.

Next Steps for Job Seekers

If you’re about to finish an online program, start today:

• Update your CV with the formatting tips above.
• Gather 2-3 project artefacts (GitHub repo, presentation deck) to share with recruiters.
• Reach out to alumni from the same program for informational interviews.
• Enroll in a short, industry‑recognized certification that complements your degree.

Following these actions will turn any lingering skepticism into genuine interest.