Choosing the Right Online Program: 7 Questions Every Prospective Student Should Ask

Choosing an online degree program is more than a matter of convenience — it’s a strategic decision that can impact your career, finances, and future opportunities.

With thousands of online college programs available across the U.S., the online education space has expanded dramatically. Enrollment in fully online programs for undergraduate students was 23% in 2023 and nearly 40% for graduate students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. ¹

But not all online degree programs are created equal, and finding the right one means looking deeper than flashy marketing or rankings. Whether you’re returning to school, changing careers, or just getting started, it’s critical to evaluate online programs through a lens of quality, relevance, and support.

Use this checklist from NMSU Global Campus to guide you through seven essential questions to ask before committing, so you can choose an online degree program with clarity and confidence.

Browse our fully online degree programs at NMSU Global Campus — built for busy professionals who want to lead with purpose.

1. Is the Program Accredited and Recognized by Employers?

Accreditation is the cornerstone of quality assurance in higher education. It signals that a program meets rigorous academic and ethical standards. Just as importantly, it ensures that your degree will be respected by employers and eligible for transfer or further study.

Choosing an accredited program can directly influence your credibility, job opportunities, and graduate school prospects.

What to look for:

• Regional accreditation (the gold standard in higher education)
• Recognition by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
• Strong employer reputation and alumni success stories

At NMSU Global Campus: We are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and CHEA. This online degree accreditation ensures the quality and transferability of your credits. New Mexico State University graduates are employed across sectors including healthcare, business, education, and public service. Choosing a regionally accredited school like NMSU Global Campus means your degree holds weight in the job market and lays the foundation for graduate study should you choose to pursue it.

2. Does the Curriculum Align with Your Career Goals?

An online degree program should not only help you meet graduation requirements — it should actively prepare you for the next stage of your career. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, planning a pivot into a new field, or building foundational expertise, the curriculum must deliver skills that matter in your industry. It’s not just about what you want to study; it’s about what you’ll be able to do once you graduate. That’s why career alignment is so critical.

According to the World Economic Forum, the most in-demand skills by 2025 include technological literacy, creative thinking, resilience, leadership, social influence, talent management, and analytical thinking. ² Programs that incorporate these competencies through applied learning, cutting-edge tools, and real-world case studies position graduates for long-term success.

What to look for:

• Programs that blend academic rigor with industry relevance
• Electives or concentrations aligned with your interests
• Capstone projects, internships, or hands-on learning experiences

At NMSU Global Campus: Our programs are designed in consultation with industry professionals and taught by faculty who understand today’s workforce demands. For example, our Master of Data Analytics integrates predictive modeling and machine learning techniques. Our courses prioritize job-ready skills so that your learning pays off in every professional setting, starting on day one.

3. What Level of Support Will You Receive?

Online learners often juggle multiple responsibilities — from full-time jobs to caregiving duties — making access to robust academic and career support non-negotiable. A high-quality online program should mirror or exceed the support services available in traditional settings. This means not only being available to help during academic challenges but also actively supporting your long-term professional goals.

In fact, the success of online students is strongly linked to institutional support systems. According to Engineerica, institutions that provide high-touch support services like coaching, tech help, and other academic support initiatives see greater graduation outcomes among online learners. ³

What to look for:

• Dedicated academic advising and tech support
• Career counseling, resume development, and job search prep
• Tutoring, writing centers, and opportunities for peer collaboration

At NMSU Global Campus: Online students have full access to personalized support throughout their educational journey. This includes academic success coaches, virtual tutoring, writing resources, and technical assistance — available even on evenings and weekends. Our holistic approach ensures you’re supported not only as a student, but as a whole professional. From guidance on crafting a standout resume to mock interviews and networking prep, our career support is built into the learning experience.

4. How Flexible Is the Learning Format?

Flexibility is a defining feature of online education — but not all programs offer it in the same way. Some are fully asynchronous, letting you complete coursework on your schedule, while others require set login times for live lectures or discussion. Understanding the structure of your prospective program can make or break your ability to succeed, especially if you’re balancing work, family, and school.

What to look for:

• Asynchronous vs. synchronous course formats
• Weekly workload expectations
• Deadlines and time management tools

At NMSU Global Campus: Our programs are 100% online and designed with working professionals in mind. Most courses are asynchronous, allowing you to complete assignments on your timeline within weekly parameters. And whether you’re studying part-time or full-time, our flexible pacing helps you stay in control of your schedule. Read more about how online classes work at NMSU Global Campus.

5. What Are the True Costs and Is Financial Aid Available?

Cost is one of the biggest deciding factors for prospective students, and for good reason. The true cost of higher education extends far beyond tuition. Books, fees, commuting, housing, and even time off work all contribute to your total investment. For students balancing careers or family obligations, these added expenses can make a traditional campus experience less feasible.

Online programs offer a more cost-effective alternative. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average total cost of attending a public in-state university on campus is $27,146 per year (2025). ⁴ A separate Education Data Initiative study shows that schools charge approximately the same tuition and fees for online and on-campus programs — $341 per credit hour vs. $325 per credit hour. However, when you factor in savings on room, board, and transportation, costs may actually be significantly lower. ⁵ Plus, online learners are able to continue working full time while studying, which makes it easier to avoid student loan debt and maintain financial stability during the program.

What to look for:

• Transparent tuition and fee structure
• Federal, state, and institutional financial aid availability
• Scholarships, grants, and interest-free payment plans
• No-cost or low-cost digital course materials

At NMSU Global Campus: We’re committed to making high-quality education affordable and accessible. Our competitive tuition rates are designed to fit a wide range of budgets, and we provide one-on-one financial aid support to help you make the most of scholarships, grants, and FAFSA resources. Many of our students find that they begin to see a return on investment even before graduation — thanks to job advancement and new earning potential that align with their in-progress degrees. Get tips on paying for college educational expenses here.

6. Will Your Degree Help You Advance in Your Field?

For many prospective students — especially those returning to school — education is a vehicle for upward mobility. Whether you’re seeking a higher salary, increased responsibility, or a shift into a new industry altogether, your degree should function as a strategic investment in your professional future.

Online programs have made this more achievable than ever. According to a 2022 report by Inside Higher Ed, nearly 40% of online learners cite improving job prospects as their primary reason for returning to school, followed closely by career advancement. ⁶

Modern online programs are designed to provide not just theoretical knowledge but hands-on experience, portfolio development, and direct alignment with job market trends.

What to look for:

• Strong job placement or alumni outcomes
• Industry partnerships or advisory boards
• Capstone projects, simulations, or networking opportunities

At NMSU Global Campus: Our degrees are intentionally career-aligned, with courses built around real-world scenarios and tools used by today’s employers. From nursing and education to data science and business, learners at NMSU Global Campus engage in project-based learning that builds a professional portfolio while they earn their degree.

7. Is the School’s Reputation and Network Strong Enough to Support Your Goals?

While curriculum and cost are critical, your school’s broader reputation and professional network can also have a major influence on your career outcomes. A respected institution signals credibility to employers, and an active alumni network can open doors to internships, mentorship, and job opportunities.

Choosing a school that not only educates but also connects can significantly accelerate your trajectory. According to a 2025 LinkedIn article by HR executive Brian Fink, as much as 80% of job roles are filled via networking, and graduates from well-connected universities often have a distinct advantage in competitive hiring environments. ⁷

What to look for:

• Alumni success stories and employer partnerships
• Career fairs, speaker series, and industry events
• Access to networking groups and professional associations

At NMSU Global Campus: Our graduates are part of a dynamic and growing community of professionals across New Mexico and beyond. We offer more than just courses – we offer connections. Through virtual career events, faculty mentorship, and peer collaboration, you’ll be part of a network that grows with you long after graduation.

Looking for inspiration? Read how our NMSU Global Campus grads have turned their online degrees into real-world success stories.

Your Path Starts with the Right Questions

Choosing an online degree program isn’t just about finding the fastest or cheapest route — it’s about finding the one that’s right for your goals, lifestyle, and future.

By asking the right questions and comparing your options carefully, you’ll be better positioned to choose a program that delivers both immediate value and long-term career impact.

Ready to explore your options? Browse online degrees at NMSU Global Campus and take the next step toward your future.

References

1. “Student Enrollment: What is the percent of students enrolled in distance education courses in postsecondary institutions in the fall?” National Center for Education Statistics, Trend Generator, accessed 24 June 2025.

2. Till, Leopold. “Future of Jobs Report 2025: The jobs of the future – and the skills you need to get them.” World Economic Forum, 08 January 2025.

3. “Student Retention in Education: Strategies That Work.” Engineerica, 21 March 2025.

4. Hanson, Melanie. “Average Cost of College & Tuition.” Education Data Initiative, last updated 08 March 2025.

5. Hanson, Melanie. “Cost of Online Education vs. Traditional Education.” Education Data Initiative, last updated 31 August 2024.

6. D’Agostino, Susan. “The Needs and Preferences of Fully Online Learners.” Inside Higher Ed, 13 September 2022.

7. Fink, Brian. “Your Job Search Is 80% Networking and 20% Applying—And That’s Non-Negotiable.” LinkedIn Newsletter, The Talent Architects, 13 January 2025.