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Is it possible to earn a Master's degree via MOOCs? - Yes, is the answer of AI

Updated: Sep 30




I have included MOOC (massive open online courses) in What We Learn page on YKY’s website. When YKY-Bistra is up and running, it will be a learning option featuring external both What is learned (curriculum) and How is learned (ways such as forms, methods, with whom and from whom, etc.) alongside the added YKY value through the co-learning and reflections sharing in YKY's eStudent groups.


  While self-directed learning remains the main pillar of YKY, MOOCs are like a boundless ocean of tremendous choice encompassing all continents, all for home learning “on the couch”. In terms of learning opportunities on offer, it suits us to a huge extent. No need to talk much about how MOOCs are offered by universities and so as well as by well-known and long-established businesses and momentum-gaining MOOC platforms.  My own experience with the ten MOOCs either completed or  attended by me for some period has been very positive so far.


So I was glad to include the MOOC option in YKY-Bistra through the eStudent groups under the YKY Fotmats CAN and PROFI. And I would be happy if YKY learning space starts working with MOOC eStudents as its first learners (after three years of research and development, including web design).


Here is the full answer from AI to my question, with the sources at its end. 



AI answer:


"Yes, it is possible to earn a Master's degree via MOOCs by enrolling in a full, accredited online degree program offered through a MOOC platform, such as those found on Coursera or edX, though these programs involve fees and are distinct from the free, standalone MOOCs that typically don't lead to formal degrees. Some platforms also offer modular programs, like MicroMasters on edX, that can provide credit toward a full degree or serve as credentials for career advancement. 

How it Works

  • University Partnerships: Many universities partner with MOOC platforms to offer full, online degree programs designed for a digital learning environment. 

  • Modular Options: Some MOOCs are part of larger "modular master's degree programs" (like MicroMasters), where you can earn a credential for a specific portion of the coursework and then apply those credits towards a full degree at a university. 

  • Accredited Programs: These are legitimate, university-awarded degrees, not just free courses.

Examples

  • Georgia Tech's Online Master of Science in Computer Science (OMSCS): One of the first examples of a full master's degree offered through a MOOC platform via Udacity. 

  • University of Illinois's iMBA: An MBA program launched on Coursera. 

  • MicroMasters Programs on edX: Several universities, including the MIT, offer MicroMasters programs that can grant credit toward a degree.

Key Differences

  • Cost: While many individual MOOCs are free, degree programs through these platforms will have fees, though often lower than traditional on-campus degrees. 

  • Credential: MOOC-based degree programs lead to official, university-issued degrees. In contrast, most standalone MOOCs offer certificates of completion but not formal academic qualifications. 

  • Structure: Degree programs are structured to meet all the requirements for a master's degree, unlike the often self-selected courses of free MOOCs. 


References


1) Learn anything with Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC)

 

2) [2024] 70+ Legit Online Master’s Degrees


3)  MicroMasters on a Global Scale

MOOC-based master's degree initiative expands to more than a dozen universities. Will learners opt to enroll or settle for a certificate? 



5)  Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) Are No Match for an Online M.S. in Computer Science



 
 
 

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