In an effort to help professionals tackle the difficult job market, increasingly more online schools have begun to offer web-based degree programs.

A new study from the Babson Survey Research Group found that more than 3,300 of the 4,500 colleges and universities in the U.S. are currently offering at least one online course, according to U.S. News and World Report. Furthermore, more than half of these schools allow students to earn a degree in a fully online format.

Many schools are increasing their internet-based offerings in an attempt to cater to the large group of college students who are taking online courses, which increased by 17 percent between 2008 and last year.

As these degree programs become more commonplace, many employers are beginning to look more favorably on individuals who have earned an online college degree. However, individuals who wish to enroll in these programs should ensure that their schools have been accredited by Department of Education-approved agencies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals who have earned a masters degree can earn up to $2,221 more per week than those who only hold a bachelors degree.