Online Degrees in Michigan

Online Associate Degrees – This degree, which usually takes two years to complete, offers a targeted curriculum that can help graduates qualify for growing entry-level positions in the state. And, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degree holders face a lower unemployment rate than those with just a high school diploma.

Individuals interested in emerging information technology careers may consider an associate degree in network systems administration. Students can learn about the technology behind local and wide area networks, as well as router configuration and maintenance. Graduates of this program may be better qualified for roles as associate computer support specialists, helping to test, evaluate, and maintain network systems. According to the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) employment of computer support specialists is expected to grow by 15 percent statewide from 2010 to 2020.

To browse schools offering online associate degree programs in Michigan, click here.

Online Bachelor’s Degrees – These degrees generally require four years of study, and programs can often impart a highly adaptable skill set useful for many 21^st century careers. As more information is translated online, knowledge of Web-programming languages may prove vital in many professions. A bachelor’s in multimedia design and development, for example, helps combine a student’s interest in art with technical Web savvy. Students often learn the concepts behind editing and optimizing digital images, and create Web pages through various programming languages including XHTML. Graduates may pursue careers as graphic designers, collaborating with clients to develop various visuals and designs. The DTMB estimates employment of graphic designers will grow by 9 percent statewide between 2010 and 2020.

To browse schools offering online bachelor’s degree programs in Michigan, click here.

Online Master’s Degrees – These degrees can typically be earned in one or two years, depending on the program, and may help graduates advance into management or senior administrative positions in their field. Health care professionals who desire more work responsibilities can look into a Master of Public Health (MPH) program. Students can learn how to disseminate health safety considerations to a community at large, and also learn about the components of successful health facilities, strategic planning, and performance improvement. MPH graduates may be better qualified for social and community service manager positions, or medical and health service manager roles. The DTMB expects Michigan employment of social and community service managers, and medical and health service managers will grow by about 20 and 14 percent, respectively, from 2010 to 2020.

To browse schools offering online master’s degree programs in Michigan, click here.

Online Doctoral Degrees – These programs usually take anywhere from three to six years to complete, depending on the school and the duration of the thesis. Doctoral candidates are often interested in positions as postsecondary teachers or researchers. Experienced business professionals who wish to pass along their knowledge through teaching may consider a Ph.D. in Management Education. This unique program is designed to teach seasoned professionals how to assess students in the classroom, and teaches curriculum development strategies as they relate to management theories and applications.

To browse schools offering online doctoral degree programs in Michigan, click here.

Public Universities

• Michigan State University has many online and hybrid master’s programs, including one in special education. Coursework can be completed entirely online, but students may need additional devices for some aspects, including a microphone; a working webcam for participating in course discussions; and a digital video camera in order to record their student-teaching for the practicum and internship courses. Graduates of this degree option can earn teaching endorsements in Learning Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Students must have a valid Michigan teaching credential to earn these endorsements.

• Central Michigan University (CMU) offers many online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. One of these is an online Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree. CMU describes this as a “flexible major,” with elective offerings that students can tailor to fit their career aspirations. Students can choose elective courses in developmental psychology, social psychology, stress, group dynamics, and studies in personality, to name a few.

Private Universities

• Davenport University has a number of online associate, bachelor’s, and master’s options. One of these is a dual-degree professional accountancy program where students can earn a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration. The program is designed to be completed in five years.

For more information please browse through the list of online colleges below. A counselor will contact you in order to discuss specifics and answer any questions you may have.

Sources:
Associate degree: Two years to a career or a jump start to a bachelor’s degree, bls.gov
Central Michigan University
Davenport University
Lt. Governor’s Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth, 2004
Michigan, Lumina Foundation, 2012
Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget, 2010-2020
Michigan State University