While in terms of curriculum design, degree, and access to university resources, this online masters degree is the same as an on-campus program, the key difference comes in how the curriculum is delivered. Classroom-based learning relies on more in-person interactions where students attend lectures in a classroom, interact with faculty over office hours, have study sessions with TAs, etc. In an online program, all this interaction shifts so that it happens over the internet. Thus, an online program offers more convenience, flexibility, and safety (by providing social distancing) compared to a classroom program.
The online masters degree programs are much more affordable compared to on-campus programs, and the student also saves on housing and the opportunity cost of not working for a year.