Finally, is there any difference between a degree offered on campus and by distance learning?
None. To underwrite the academic credibility of the degrees they offer, reputable universities have devised rigorous procedures to ensure that the qualification they offer has the same value irrespective of whether it was earned on campus by distance. Well- informed employers interested in evaluating the quality of job applicants will research the credentials of the issuing institute. Less well informed recruiters will create a simplistic distinction between distance and residential qualifications. They will prefer a degree earned through residency on a third-rate campus over a degree earned by distance from a first class institute. So, would you really want to work for them. Raymond Sheehan graduated (distance learning) with an MSc in TESP from Aston University, and is currently a distance learner on the Doctorate in Education program at Leicester University.
