Can Online Degree Outpace Regular Degree?

Can Online Degree Outpace Regular Degree?

Edited By Atul Ade | Updated on Jan 28, 2025 05:51 PM IST | #MBA

Anyone nowadays can access education from anywhere in the world with the growth of online learning. Several top universities offer online degree courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in diverse domains. But, the question arises, can an online course outpace or compete with regular degrees? Do online courses have the same value as traditional courses?

Can Online Degree Outpace Regular Degree?
Can Online Degree Outpace Regular Degree?

An online degree is quite similar to a traditional degree in terms of curriculum and course outcomes. The mode of delivery differentiates these courses from each other. Online degree courses are fully conducted in virtual modes and there is not required to attend in-person classes like traditional courses.

While on-campus courses provide structured modules of education where students get hands-on learning experience, online courses help students in career enhancement without putting their jobs on a halt. Read this article to know the key difference of online vs offline degrees, are they competing with each other, and their pros and cons.

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Also Read: Who Can Enrol in Online Degrees?

Are Online Degrees Better Than Offline Degrees?

Online degree courses and offline courses both are UGC-recognised and approved by the employer. These programmes offer quality education, however, their goals and audience are different. Online courses are best for remote students and working professionals, as they are not able to join in-person classes but want to gain knowledge and skills.

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College degree courses or offline courses are best suited for students who want to gain hands-on experience by attending regular classes and interacting with peers and professors in person.

Online courses and regular courses share similarities yet compete with each other. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. Students are advised to select the right course as per their preference, career goals, and availability.

Online Degree vs Regular Degree

The following table highlights the quick differences between online degree and a regular degree.

Particulars

Online Degree

Regular Degree

Flexibility

More flexible and self-paced learning

Fixed schedules and require attendance and commitment

Cost

More affordable and saves money on commuting or campus facilities.

Comparatively expensive and expenses on tuition fees and living costs.

Networking

Limited interaction but global network opportunity

More networking opportunities with fellow students, professors, and alumni

Recognition

Government accredited and recognised by employers.

Holds government recognition and valued by employers.

Learning Methodology

Live classes, recorded lectures, and digital learning resources.

Classroom learning, structured curriculum, hands-on learning and physical learning resources.

Why Choose Online Degree?

Online degree courses are offered in a complete virtual mode. These courses are delivered through live lectures, recorded sessions, online study material, case studies and assignments. Exams for online courses are held in a technology-enabled online proctored mode. Online degree courses come with flexibility, accessibility, and affordability.

Also Read: 15+ UGC Approved Online Degree Courses

Pros of Online Degree

  • Flexibility: Students can study at their own pace and convenience. They can access the study material, live lectures, and recorded sessions from any location.
  • Cost-Effective: Online courses have lower tuition fees compared to college degree courses. It saves money on various expenses like commuting and college accommodation.
  • Accessibility: Anyone from anywhere can access online courses. Students should have a stable internet connection.
  • Diverse Specialisations: Online courses offer a variety of degree courses at UG and PG level with a range of specialisations.
  • Personalised Learning: Students can learn on their own according to their needs.
  • Improved Tech Skills: Online courses equip students with knowledge and various skills.
  • Career Advancement: An online degree helps students get employment in their desired fields. Working professionals can upskill themselves and get salary hikes and leading roles.
  • Global Networking: Connect with instructors and students globally.
  • Easy Access to Lectures: Students can attend live lectures. They can even watch recorded lectures.
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Also Read: Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Programs

Cons of Online Degree

  • Lack of Interaction: There is limited interaction as there is no physical presence in online learning. Students can connect with peers and faculty during live lectures.
  • Self-Discipline: Students need strong discipline. There may be a lack of motivation.
  • Technical Issues: Many times students may face technical issues like internet issues.
  • Less Practical Exposure: As there is no physical presence, students do not get practical exposure.
  • Isolation: Students may feel isolated as they have to study alone. They can not get the feel of a campus learning environment.
  • Digital Fatigue: Sometimes spending too much time on a laptop and mobile can be exhausting.
  • Distractions at Home: Students have to make a balance between study and personal commitments.

Also Read: Online Degree vs Offline Degree: Which is Better?

Conclusion

The comparison between online degree and offline degree is not about which course is better. It is about the suitability of the course. Students must choose to pursue a course as per their convenience and affordability. In regular degree courses, students require physical presence, while in online courses they can study at their convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do online courses have the same values as offline degree courses?

Yes, as online degree courses are recognised by UGC, they hold the same values as traditional courses and provide the same quality of education.


2. Does online degree hold UGC recognition?

Yes, online degrees are UGC approved. Students should check the college and their programmes whether it is approved by UGC.

3. Is an Indian online degree valid abroad?

Yes, several foreign universities accept online degrees from accredited universities. Employers also value an online degree if it is earned from a recognised university.

4. What is the course duration of online degrees?

The duration of online degrees at the UG level is three years, whereas online PG courses last two years.

5. Do employers accept online degrees?

Yes, UGC-approved online degree courses are accepted for various careers in India and abroad, including both private and government jobs.

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Questions related to MBA

Have a question related to MBA ?

Hello there,

Roadmap for MBA After 12th Commerce

  1. Complete 12th Commerce – Focus on improving your percentage as many top colleges have a minimum cutoff for admissions.

  2. Pursue a Bachelor's Degree – You can do:

    • BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) – Most common for MBA aspirants

    • B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce) – Also suitable for MBA

    • BA (Economics/Business) – Alternative option

  3. Prepare for MBA Entrance Exams – Major exams include:

    • CAT (Common Admission Test) – For IIMs and top B-schools

    • XAT, NMAT, SNAP, CMAT, and MAT – For other top institutes

  4. Complete MBA (2 years) – Specializations available:

    • Marketing, Finance, HR, Operations, IT, etc.

  5. Placements and Salary – Top IIMs and reputed colleges offer high placement rates (average Rs. 10-30 LPA). Private institutes may have lower placements (Rs. 4-12 LPA).

  6. Types of Schools

    • IIMs, FMS, JBIMS – Government/public institutes
    • XLRI, SPJIMR, NMIMS – Private but highly reputed

Government MBA schools generally have lower fees and better ROI compared to private ones.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries, then feel free to share your questions with us, we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.

Hello! The decision to study for an MBA  is wise because it provides outstanding management institutions within India.if you are asking the best collage for MBA in Delhi, The following list includes some of Delhi's greatest MBA educational institutions:


1. People seek an MBA at the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) due to its strong return on investment together with its cost-effective fees and CAT-based admission system.

2. Students can study international business at Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) in New Delhi through their independent entrance exam and high college reputation.

3. These days the Department of Management Studies (DMS) at IIT Delhi stands as a leading B-school due to its expertise in technology combined with management practices while utilizing CAT entrance exam scores for enrollment.

4. The International Management Institute (IMI) in New Delhi represents India’s initial corporate-sponsored business school that gives admission to candidates who pass CAT/XAT/GMAT examinations.

5. Management Development Institute (MDI) Gurgaon exists in NCR and is respected for its challenging curriculum and extensive network with business sector.

6. FORE School of Management , New Delhi – Offers a well-rounded management education with admissions through CAT/XAT/GMAT

7. Students seeking admission to Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) in New Delhi must take their own entrance exam before qualifying for the MBA program.

The selection process for the right college needs evaluation of accreditation status together with specialty programs and placement success and faculty members and facilities maintenance. The professional progression of students depends heavily on their strong connection with other graduates and their active business engagement.


I hope this helps! Best of luck in your MBA journey!

Hello Muskan,

The MBA fee at FMS Delhi is around Rs. 2.32 lakh for two years ( Rs. 58,000 per semester ). Admissions are based on CAT scores , and international students, including Nepali candidates, should check with FMS Delhi's official website (fms.edu) for eligibility and admission details.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.

Hi,

List of some of the best MBA colleges with low fees in South India includes:

  • Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences
  • Department of Management Sciences, Pune University
  • Bharathidasan Institute of Management
  • S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research
  • Christ University, Bangalore
  • Gems B School, Bangalore
  • Amity University

Hope this information will help you

MBA fees in India vary widely, ranging from INR 20,000 to 40 lakh for a two-year full-time program.The fees depend on several factors, including:




- Infrastructure: Institutions with state-of-the-art facilities charge higher fees.


- Hostel facilities: Colleges offering accommodation options may include these costs in the overall fee.


- Extra-curricular activities: Institutions with a wide range of extracurricular activities may charge more.


- Pedagogy: Colleges using innovative teaching methods or offering specializations may have higher fees.


- International exposure: Institutions offering international immersion programs or foreign university collaborations may charge more.




Here are some examples of MBA fees in India:




- IIMs: INR 15 lakh to 27 lakh


- Top private colleges: INR 10 lakh to 25 lakh


- Government colleges: INR 2 lakh to 10 lakh




Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and fees may vary depending on the institution and location.

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