Traditional universities offer accredited online PhD programs ranging from healthcare to education to business to computer science. In virtually all cases, the academic requirements and length of PhD programs online are no different than the on-campus versions. Most of these programs require students to visit campus at least several times over the

Online education is no longer the future. Unlike a decade ago, employers no longer automatically perceive online degrees or distance education as inferior or second class. Online degrees are gaining respect. As a result, there is no need to reveal in a cover letter or resume that you earned your degree online.

While online degrees are new to many, accreditation provides the backing needed to prove that your degree is legitimate. Potential employers and higher education institutions will recognize your degree (even if it still confuses Aunt Margie) and it will open doors for your future.