Due to the difficult job market, even individuals who are fortunate enough to find work will be subjected to a great deal of competition. As a result, these professionals may want to consider enrolling in college programs online to ensure that their credentials are up-to-date.

Because the applicant pool will be particularly qualified in high-paying fields - such as business - members of these industries may require convenient programs that can enable them to keep up with their work while they complete a degree program. Fortunately, many campus-based and online colleges are recognizing this need by expanding their flexible course offerings.

For instance, an Arkansas-based school's executive MBA program recently announced changes to its scheduling options, which are intended to cater to working management professionals, Arkansas Business reports.

Enrollees are able to take classes on alternating weekends and during the evening to ensure that they are able to fulfill their work responsibilities. Individuals who are able to earn an MBA without falling behind on their work may be able to convince their hiring managers that they are worthy of a pay raise.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, financial managers - who are often required to hold an MBA - have the potential to earn more than $100,000 per year.