Hi Everyone,
Ever since I can remember, I have known that I wanted to have at least a Master's or a PhD in my field. I have a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in structural engineering from a great school. While I thought I wanted to go into structural engineering, the truth of the matter is that I went into general civil (land development) right out of school. Today, I have 5 years experience in general civil engineering including about a year and half in project management. Unfortunately due to the state of this economy, I was laid off twice last year and currently just working part time for my present employer.

While the idea of getting a master's was merely that because of a very busy schedule, I feel that now is the time for me to go back to school and get that degree. I am debating whether I should go for a Master's in Structural or General Civil and which programs to apply to.

If choose, a degree in structural engineering I would the ability or should I say it would be easier for me to switch careers to the structural field; something which I am seriously considering since it has been my first passion. I did work for a structural company for almost two years when I was still working on my BS degree and I enjoyed it. If I go for a masters in general civil, I would be adding the degree to my resume and that can only help to make myself more markeatable. Have any of you been confronted with such a decision?

My second question has to do with which program to choose to apply to. While the idea of going to a regular university for a masters seemed impossible before bacause a very hectic schedule, it now seems like it could work since I am only working part time. On the other hand there are online schools where one can earn a masters degree. This sounds so attractive since regardless of one's schedule one can accomodate the class to fit that schedule something that one may not be able to do in a regular unversity. My concern is this: How do others view online degrees? Will an online degree be seen as any less than a traditional university? Any of you that may have gone through this, what programs are you attending or have attended? I came across an online university but they mentioned that their Masters program is not ABET accredited? does this change things? I know my BS degree is from an accredited university, so are masters looked at differently?

Any advice that anyone can provide would certainly help.