Online Degrees in North Carolina

Online Associate Degrees - Jobs that require associate degrees will grow at nearly double the national average rate of all jobs, according to a 2009 study by the New Democratic Leadership Council. Earning an associate degree in a subject like business may help build foundational proficiencies in written and oral communication, basic computer applications, and business math for analysis purposes. A business associate degree may lead to entry level positions in various careers, including a loan officer, which is projected to grow statewide by about 13 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the North Carolina Employment Security Commission (NCESC).

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

Online Bachelor's Degrees - Graduates of these four-year programs usually experience more job security than those with just a high-school diploma, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov, 2012). Bachelor degree holders may also have more career choices than associate degree holders. One such career that often requires a bachelor’s degree is a public relations specialist. A bachelor's in communications or a related degree may help students looking to enter this profession. This program typically teaches students about the different forms and outlets of mass communication. Students may also learn about the differences between hearing and listening as well as verbal and nonverbal communication habits. Public relations specialist positions are expected to grow 19 percent from 2008 through 2018, according to the NCESC.

To browse schools offering online bachelor's degree programs in North Carolina, click here.

Online Master's Degrees - These degrees are earned by demonstrating advanced knowledge in a field of study, and generally take one to two years to complete. Individuals often earn these degrees in order to rise to administrative or management positions within their field, or to switch careers altogether. Ongoing advancements in telecommunications may cause companies to need professionals with the expertise to manage database security, create systems for e-commerce, and upgrade existing networks. Database developers who wish to ascend into senior roles in order to take on these added responsibilities may consider a master’s degree in network and communications management. This program is designed to train students how to organize, plan, and implement network management projects; how to properly integrate new technologies; and how to utilize digital cryptography principles to enable confidential sharing of sensitive data.

To browse schools offering online master's degree programs in North Carolina, click here.

Online Doctoral Degrees - These programs are typically completed in three to six years. Students primarily pursue doctorates in order to become researchers or postsecondary teachers. Doctoral degrees may also impart the necessary skills to move into the upper echelon of leadership positions in an organization or government. Health care professionals who wish to affect public policy more directly may wish to pursue a Doctor of Health Administration. This degree program trains students in how to lead organizations, conduct research in order to foresee upcoming issues and challenges in health administration, and develop strategies to streamline health systems and the delivery of effective care.

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

Public Universities

• The University of North Carolina offers a few online master's degree programs, including an Executive Master of Public Health (MPH) and Executive Master of Health Care Administration (MHA). While both have online courses, students will have to attend three one-week residencies on campus each year. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree and at least three years of work experience in public health or human services in order to be admitted to either program. Both the MPH and the MHA are designed to be completed in 24 months.

• North Carolina State University (NCSU) gives students a chance to finish their bachelor’s degree under their Leadership in the Public Sector (LPS) program. The LPS completion program is focused on providing students with leadership skills that transfer well into nonprofit and governmental agencies, as opposed to business or health care organizations. This program is meant for students who have completed an associate degree, or have already earned 45 to 60 college credits.

Private Universities

• Duke University has a continuing studies branch that offers evening, weekend, and online certificate programs for working professionals. One of the fully online programs is in paralegal studies. Once accepted, students are assigned an instructor who is an experienced U.S. attorney. Students also have access to Lexis Nexus and Westlaw, two legal research tools used in the industry. The curriculum is intended to be completed in one year, but students are allowed to ask for one-time, three month extension. Applicants will need to hold an associate or bachelor’s degree in order to enroll.

Please browse through the online colleges below to find more information on degree options. A counselor will contact you to discuss specifics and answer any queries you may have.

Sources:
A Matter of Degrees, New Democratic Leadership Council, 2009
Duke University
Education Pays, bls.gov, 2012
North Carolina, Lumina Foundation, 2012
North Carolina State University
Occupational Employment Estimates, North Carolina Employment Security Commission, 2008-2018
University of North Carolina