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Take Control of Your Future: 5 Reasons to Earn Your Degree Online

Life doesn’t pause, and neither should your goals. Whether you’re working full-time, finishing up credits, or looking to gain new skills, earning an online degree is a powerful way to move forward without putting everything else on hold.

If you’re not sure about pursuing an online degree, here are five reasons why you should reconsider.

young woman studying and working on her laptop

1. Flexibility

Earning a degree online from the College of Professional Studies ensures maximum flexibility, so that no matter what your current situation is, you can work education into your life. With an online degree program, you have more flexibility to maintain your existing lifestyle.

With a wide range of synchronous and asynchronous online courses, the College of Professional Studies is committed to delivering quality programs to online students. With as much adaptability as possible, online programs make your education something you can blend into your existing reality, rather than something you halt your life to pursue.

2. Alumni Network

Online students often build strong bonds through discussion boards, group projects, and virtual meetups. Those relationships don’t fade; they evolve. Our alumni association ensures that online graduates have the tools to stay connected, collaborate, and contribute.

Our online alumni are invited to participate in events that fit their schedules and interests. Many of these are hosted virtually, making it easy to stay involved no matter where life takes you.

3. Course Variety

From Cybersecurity Administration to Project Management, the College of Professional Studies has a range of degrees that are exclusively available to online students.

By pursuing one of our online degrees, you’re opening your learning pathway up to a world of possibilities.

4. Career Advancement

Online degrees are a great way for working professionals to add to their portfolio of skills and advance their careers. Whether you already have a college degree and are looking to add an online master’s, earning an online degree is an effective way to stay competitive in today’s shifting job market.

With an online degree, you don’t have to put your career on pause to pursue higher education.

5. Learn From a Top University

You don’t have to live near a top university to earn an education at one.

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies is a leading institution in the field of online learning. By earning an online degree from the College of Professional Studies, students have the opportunity to add additional accolades, skills, and credibility to their resume.

Choose Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies today to unlock your potential. Anytime. Anywhere.

Empowering Military-Connected Students Through Online Education

Whether you’re serving on active duty, transitioning as a veteran, or supporting a loved one in uniform, Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies is your pathway to a brighter future. We don’t just welcome military-connected students; we design degrees around your success.

Let’s break down how we support each part of the military-connected community:

Active-Duty Service Members: Flexible, Affordable, Mission-Ready

Your schedule is demanding. Your goals are ambitious. We’ve built programs that work with your life, not against it.

  • 100% Tuition Coverage: Syracuse matches the Tuition Assistance (TA) rate for active duty, Reserve, and National Guard students in part-time undergraduate programs.
  • Online Degrees That Fit Your Mission: Choose from career-focused programs like Cybersecurity Administration, AI in Business Process Automation, Project Management, and more.
  • Credit for Military Training: Your Joint Services Transcript (JST) and Professional Military Education (PME) can count toward your degree—saving you time and money.

Veterans: A New Mission, A New Community

Transitioning to civilian life is a journey. At Syracuse, you’ll find a university that honors your service and empowers your next chapter.

  • Maximize Your Benefits: Syracuse University participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program to help you make the most of your Post 9/11 GI Bill®.
  • Veteran-Dedicated Support: The Office of Veteran and Military Affairs offers personalized guidance, financial aid help, and a community that understands your experience.
  • Top-Ranked University for Veterans: Syracuse University ranks No. 3 in Best for Veterans for Online Bachelor’s Programs of private universities for three consecutive years, according to U.S. News and World Report’s 2025 Best Online Programs rankings.

Spouses, Dependents & Military-Connected Students: Education That Moves with You

Military families face unique challenges. We make sure your education isn’t one of them. Wherever military life takes you, Syracuse goes with you.

  • Monthly Info Sessions: Explore programs, ask questions, and get expert advice—virtually and conveniently.
  • Online Student Success: Online military-connected students also receive personalized support from advisors who are specially trained to navigate their unique challenges and experiences through the Office of Online Student Success.
  • Military Family Support: Veteran and military-connected student support is critical to academic and personal success.  Whatever your student issue is, Syracuse University has a solution

To learn more about military-connected support, visit professionalstudies.syracuse.edu/info-for/veterans-military.

Stackable Learning is Shaping the Future of Higher Education

In today’s fast-changing job market, staying competitive means continuously learning and evolving. Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies offers stackable learning, a flexible way to advance your career on your terms.


What is Stackable Learning?

Stackable credentials are designed to break down traditional education into manageable, career-focused learning. With stackable credentials, you can build a personalized path into a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree. Unlike traditional programs, BPS degrees offer the flexibility to tailor your curriculum to fit your goals, schedule, and experience.

Whether you’re looking to switch careers or build new skills, the College of Professional Studies makes it possible and meets you where you are.

Instead of committing to a full degree from the start, students can start small and earn credentials that later stack into a complete degree if it meets the criteria.

Stackable Learning at Syracuse University

Flexibility for Working Professionals: Whether you’re balancing a full-time job, family, or other commitments, Syracuse University’s online learning options allow you to study when and where it works best for you.

Customized and Personalized Learning Paths: Stackable programs let learners tailor their education to match their goals, interests, or job requirements. You can combine credentials across disciplines, like pairing a project management certificate with a cybersecurity administration BPS  degree, to create unique skill sets. This personalization makes your profile stand out in competitive job markets.

Career Advancement with In-Demand Skills: Each credential is designed to provide immediate, real-world value. From AI in Business Process Automation to Full Stack Development, these programs focus on high-growth industries, helping you stay competitive in the job market. 

Start Stacking Your Success Today

Discover the College of Professional Studies’ online degrees and certificates and start your journey today.

Online Learning at Syracuse: How to Succeed as a Remote Student

The rise of online learning allows students to earn their degree from anywhere. At the College of Professional Studies, our online programs empower students with the tools, technology, and support to succeed in a virtual environment. 

Here are our top tips for making the most of online learning at Syracuse University.

1. Master Time Management

Even without a fixed class schedule, online courses require commitment and organization. Consider the following strategies to optimize your study routine:

  • Use a calendar to block out study times, deadlines, and live sessions.
  • Set weekly goals to stay on track.
  • Avoid multitasking and focus on one subject or module at a time for deeper learning and better retention.

2. Build Your Digital Toolkit

Remote education success depends on the right tools. Online students can access robust digital platforms such as:

💡Tip: Familiarize yourself with these tools early to save time and stay on top of your workload as courses progress.


3. Create a Study Space that Works

Your learning space matters. Design a remote setup that supports focus and minimizes distraction:

  • Find a quiet spot with good lighting and reliable Wi-Fi.
  • Use headphones to block out noise during lectures or group meetings.
  • Keep all study essentials nearby
💡Tip: Here’s a list of potential online study essentials to keep you focused, comfortable, and productive!

Core Tech & Accessories:

  • Reliable charger
  • Headphones or earbuds
  • Webcam & microphone
  • External mouse & keyboard
  • USB hub or docking station

Comfort & Well-Being:

  • Screen filter or matte protector
  • Adjustable chair
  • Laptop stand or riser
  • Desk lamp with warm light
  • Healthy snacks
  • Fidget toy or stress ball

Productivity & Connection:

  • Stable Wi-Fi
  • Ethernet cable – Backup for spotty Wi-Fi
  • Cloud storage – Save and access files anywhere with OneDrive
  • External hard drive or USB stick
  • Planner or calendar
  • Sticky notes or whiteboard
  • Timer
  • Course syllabus

4. Connect and Collaborate

Just because you’re learning online doesn’t mean you’re alone!

  • Engage in discussion boards regularly. Thoughtful posts show professors you’re present and active.
  • Attend virtual events
  • Reach out to peers for group chats or Zoom study groups

Even online, meaningful relationships can be just as valuable as in-person interactions.


5. Ask for Support 

Syracuse offers robust support for online students. Take advantage of:

Remember: Remote students are full members of the Syracuse community. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

With Syracuse University’s resources and support, there’s no better place to take charge of your online learning journey. Start today and succeed from anywhere.

Boost Your Resume: 5 Online Minors That Employers Love

Want to stand out after graduation?

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies offers five 100% online minors. These online programs add specialized skills to any education path. 

In this guide, you will discover each minor, required courses, career benefits, and next steps to apply today. 

Admission requirements vary for each minor program. Be sure to consult the official program pages for detailed eligibility criteria and application guidelines.

1. AI Business Applications Minor (18 Credits)

Master the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and business systems. This minor teaches you how AI is transforming productivity, efficiency, and innovation across every industry.

You’ll learn to

  • Apply AI tools and techniques to real business scenarios
  • Analyze how AI impacts organizational efficiency and innovation
  • Design effective AI solutions that turn complex data into insights

Course overview

  • AIA 210 –  Foundations of Digital Automation 
  • AIA 216 – AI Automation Strategies 
  • AIA 316 – AI Semantic Data Storage and Integration
  • AIA 346 – AI Applications and Solution Delivery 
  • AIA 426 – Applied AI in Business Systems
  • AIA 430 – Generative AI in Digital Automation 

Why choose this minor? AI skills are in massive demand across all sectors. Whether you’re majoring in marketing, finance, healthcare, or engineering, this minor guarantees a competitive edge in the workforce.


2. Applied Digital Automation Minor (18 Credits)

Dive deep into how digital technologies are revolutionizing traditional automation processes. This minor covers everything from predictive analytics to IIOT data management.

You’ll learn to

  • Understand digital automation processes, tools, and techniques
  • Apply cutting-edge technologies in industrial scenarios
  • Analyze future trends shaping the automation landscape

Course overview

  • AIA 210 – Foundations of Digital Automation
  • AIA 328 – Predictive Analytics for Digital Automation 
  • AIA 330 – Applications and Dashboards in Digital Automation
  • AIA 340 –  Process Reengineering using Digital Automation 
  • AIA 427 – Sensor and IoT Data in Digital Automation
  • AIA 430 – Generative AI in Digital Automation

Why choose this minor? Manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech companies are in immediate need of professionals who understand automation. This minor positions you for roles in operations, technology, and innovation.


3. Cannabis Studies Minor (18 Credits)

Get comprehensive knowledge of one of the fastest-growing industries in America. This interdisciplinary minor covers law, science, business, and cultivation in the cannabis industry.

You’ll learn to

  • Identify differences between marijuana and hemp products
  • Navigate legal and regulatory frameworks
  • Learn the science behind cannabis and its health applications
  • Understand cultivation, manufacturing, and business operations

Course overview

  • CAN 301 – Cannabis Business Operations   
  • CAN 310 – Cannabis Start-ups   
  • CAN 315 – Cannabis Law, Policy, and Social Justice   
  • CAN 320 – Cannabis Science and Health   
  • CAN 325 – Cannabis Cultivation   
  • CAN 330 – Cannabis Manufacturing, Processing & Distribution 

Why choose this minor? New York’s cannabis legalization is creating thousands of jobs. This minor positions you for careers in healthcare, agriculture, policy, compliance, business operations, or legal sectors within this growing industry.


4. Organizational Development and Leadership Minor (18 Credits)

Build the critical skills that every leader needs. This minor combines theory and practice in organizational leadership, change management, strategic thinking, and professional relationship building.

You’ll learn to

  • Develop skills to cultivate professional relationships
  • Cultivate strong conflict resolution skills in the workplace
  • Apply strategic thinking for professional problem-solving and decision-making

Course Overview

  • ODL 301 – Analysis and Decision Models for Leaders
  • ODL 372 – Organizational Leadership
  • Elective courses (12 credits)
    • Choose four additional classes from available ODL offerings

Why choose this minor? Leadership skills translate to every career path. Whether you’re heading business, nonprofit work, healthcare, technology, or any other field, this minor prepares you for management and leadership roles.


5. Project Management Minor (18 Credits)

Learn to lead projects from start to finish. This interdisciplinary minor covers project organization, methodologies, controls, communications, and stakeholder management.

You’ll learn to

  • Master traditional and emerging project management methods
  • Launch and successfully complete projects on time and on budget
  • Manage large-scale, global team-based projects 

Required courses

  • PPM 301 – Foundations of Project Management
  • PPM 310 – Project Organization and Leadership
  • PPM 315 – Project Management Methodologies
  • PPM 320 – Project Controls
  • PPM 325 – Project Communications and Stakeholder Management
  • PPM 411 – Project Management Capstone

Why choose this minor? Project management skills are valuable across all industries. From healthcare to financial institutions, experienced project managers are always in demand. 


Ready to Take the Next Step?

Your major is just the beginning. At Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies, these online minors allow you to stand out in the evolving job market. 

Explore our programs today and take the next step in your career journey.