An online degree can give students coding, design and storytelling practice if it focuses on project work. In games, skill is a construct and not theory. Good online programmes encourage students to build prototypes and work together online reflecting the way that game studios already work across continents today. The advantage of studying online is flexibility, many indie developers I mentored did a combination of coursework and mod building or working on small teams. That dual track allowed them both to earn credentials and create a portfolio. Specialization is achieved through projects. Students learn to discover which tasks they enjoy such as coding, art, narrative design when they work in teams. Entry level positions will typically be QA testers, junior programmers, environment artists and support engineers. Employers want candidates who can demonstrate. A complete game, polished levels or a working mechanic in a portfolio is worth more than any grade ever could be. My advice is to treat an online degree as a study and an opportunity to publish projects. Employers look for those who can show real output over coursework.