Generally, in order for instructors to be hired by online universities, they must either possess a relevant master's degree or a Ph.D. Most online university faculties are also required to undergo extensive training programs before they may lead an online course. Oftentimes, faculty members even help to develop the online courses they are leading.

In addition to possessing proper credentials, online instructors are usually experts in their field, and have valuable work experience under their belts. Many online instructors are successful CEOs, CFOs, managers, supervisors, writers, business owners, and other professionals and/or academics with expertise. Typically, online universities will not hire instructors without prior teaching and/or real world experience.

Most online university instructors are also required to take refresher courses periodically as well as seminars if they wish to continue teaching.