Online Quality Assurance Schools: How to Choose

Online programs offer specialized training in quality assurance science and management. Students looking for education related to quality assurance in business, manufacturing, machine operation, assembly or mechanics have a number of online program options available.

How to Select an Online Degree Program in Quality Assurance

Award Levels

There are a number of degree options available to quality assurance specialists at each level of professional development. Entry-level quality assurance specialists who work on the assembly line can usually receive some on-the-job training, but for advanced quality assurance positions, more specialized knowledge in measurement science, industrial computer-aided design and blueprints is required.
A bachelor's or master's degree program offers students additional courses in business, management and manufacturing. These subjects provide students with the training necessary to advance to more technical positions involving software- and computer-based quality control and manufacturing leadership.

Program Type

Programs in quality assurance offer students fully online learning options. Instruction is provided through online classroom platforms such as Blackboard, which allow students to participate in class discussions and correspond with the instructor though chat rooms and e-mail. These programs are well-suited for working professionals or students who may not require much hands-on training. A few schools may also offer a self-paced study option that allows students to complete courses part-time or at their own speed.

Technical Requirements

For fast Internet connection and download time, it's recommended that students subscribe to broadband or DSL Internet service. Since full-time students spend many hours a week accessing online materials, it's recommended that they have regular access to a computer with a recent modem and enough memory to run software, navigate Web browsers and facilitate the transmission of large media files like video, live streaming and 3-D animation graphics.

List of Popular Online Programs in Quality Assurance

Online Bachelor of Science in Quality Assurance

An online bachelor's degree program in quality assurance helps students meet the professional requirements for entry-level positions in quality control administration. The degree takes an average of four years to complete and requires a core of liberal arts courses that includes mathematics, history and communication. Students in the program are introduced to concepts in measurement science, statistical tools, manufacturing processes, technical communications, inspection and the basics of human resource management.
Students move though the material at their own pace by viewing pre-recorded lectures, following textbooks, studying demonstrations and completing online assignments. Competency in the field is measured though quizzes, virtual class discussions and a final exam or capstone project.

Online Master of Science in Quality Assurance

The online master's degree in quality assurance offers students training that focuses on advanced quality assurance systems monitoring and management. Students enroll in courses that cover manufacturing and quality control at the administrative level. They can select from courses in management that cover areas such as manufacturing practices, quality project management and productivity.
Since a big part of quality assurance management depends on implementing a successful quality control system, students take advanced courses that help them develop such a system, examining topics in probability, testing techniques and statistics. In order to graduate, students must often complete a final project.

Online Master of Engineering Management

This degree is designed for professionals in technical or manufacturing fields who are looking to work in advanced problem-solving positions. The degree program helps students identify, implement and monitor a successful quality management system. Courses are designed to help students understand advanced quality control methods in measurement, modeling and simulation practices that include ISO quality systems, Taguchi's experimental design methods and engineering statistics.
The program can usually be completed online and does not require on-campus attendance. Competency is measured though a final capstone project; for example, students may need to write a report and apply quality assurance theories to a real-world problem.