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Looking for a credential that won’t drown you in endless textbooks but still opens doors to a solid paycheck? You’re not alone. Many students ask, what degree is easy and pays well? The good news is that a handful of programs hit that sweet spot-light on stress, heavy on earnings-especially when you take them online.
What makes a degree both easy and lucrative?
First, let’s unpack the two sides of the equation. An "easy" program usually means a clear curriculum, predictable grading, and limited prerequisite math or science. A "high‑paying" degree, on the other hand, is measured by median salary, job growth, and the variety of roles you can step into after graduation. When those two lines intersect, you get a field that feels manageable today and rewarding tomorrow.
Key factors to watch for:
- Practical skill focus: Courses teach tools you can use on day‑one, reducing the need for extensive theory.
- Industry demand: Employers actively recruit graduates, which drives salaries up.
- Certification pathways: Some degrees double as fast‑track certifications (e.g., CompTIA, PMP).
- Online flexibility: Remote delivery cuts commuting time and lets you work while you study.
Top easy‑to‑study degrees with strong earnings
Below is a curated list of programs that consistently rank high for both ease and pay. Each entry includes a brief overview, typical study load, and why employers love it.
| Degree | Typical Duration | Ease Rating (1‑5) | Median Salary (US$) | Popular Online Providers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate's degree in Nursing (ADN) | 2 years | 3 | 68,000 | Western Governors University, Southern New Hampshire University |
| Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) | 4 years | 3.5 | 75,000 | University of Florida Online, Arizona State University |
| Computer Information Systems (CIS) | 4 years | 3 | 78,000 | Southern New Hampshire University, Penn State World Campus |
| Health Information Management (HIM) | 4 years | 3.5 | 71,000 | University of Cincinnati Online, University of Texas at Arlington |
| Cybersecurity (B.S.) | 4 years | 3 | 92,000 | Western Governors University, EC‑Cyber |
| Data Analytics (B.S.) | 4 years | 3 | 85,000 | University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign (iMSA), Purdue University Global |
Notice how most of these programs finish in four years or less, and many can be accelerated with prior credits or competency‑based assessments.
How online learning boosts earnings
Studying online isn’t just a convenience-it can directly impact your paycheck. Remote programs often cost 20‑30 % less than on‑campus equivalents, meaning less student‑loan debt. Less debt translates to higher net income early in your career.
Additionally, many employers view online credentials as a sign of self‑discipline and time‑management skills. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Dell expressly value candidates who can juggle remote coursework while meeting work deadlines.
When you combine a low‑stress curriculum with the ability to work part‑time or full‑time, you’re setting yourself up for a faster ROI.
Choosing the right online program
Before you click “Enroll,” run through this short checklist to ensure the degree truly fits the "easy and pays well" promise.
- Accreditation matters: Verify regional or national accreditation. This guarantees that credits transfer and employers recognize the degree. Look for agencies like the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
- Curriculum clarity: Scan the course list. Programs heavy on capstone projects or real‑world labs often provide clearer pathways to jobs.
- Student support services: Do they offer tutoring, career counseling, and networking events? Good support reduces dropout risk.
- Career outcomes data: Schools that publish graduate salary stats and employment rates are usually more transparent.
- Flexibility options: Look for self‑paced or competency‑based tracks if you want to finish faster.
When you tick all these boxes, you’re more likely to land a role that pays well without the academic burnout.
Financial considerations and scholarships
Even though online tuition is lower, you still need a plan. Here are practical ways to keep costs down:
- Employer tuition assistance: Many companies reimburse up to $5,250 per year for approved courses.
- Federal aid: FAFSA eligibility applies to most accredited online programs.
- Scholarships for specific fields: Organizations like the National Scholarship Foundation offer awards for nursing, business, and tech majors.
- Stackable certificates: Earn a certificate first, then apply the credits toward a degree-this spreads out expenses.
Remember, the less you borrow, the sooner your net salary climbs.
Pitfalls to avoid
Even the best‑designed program can go sideways if you’re not careful. Common mistakes include:
- Choosing a "quick" diploma that isn’t accredited-employers will overlook it.
- Underestimating the self‑discipline needed for remote study; procrastination kills both grades and earnings.
- Ignoring the local job market; a high‑paying salary in the U.S. may not reflect wages in your region.
- Skipping networking; online classes often have discussion boards-use them to connect with alumni.
Staying aware of these traps keeps your path smooth.
Next steps: Turn research into results
Now that you’ve seen which degrees balance ease and pay, it’s time to act:
- Pick one of the degrees from the comparison table that aligns with your interests.
- Visit the listed online providers, verify accreditation, and request a syllabus.
- Calculate total tuition, potential scholarships, and projected ROI based on the median salary figures.
- Enroll in a short‑term intro course or certificate to test the learning format.
- Set a realistic study schedule-aim for 10‑12 hours per week if you’re working full‑time.
Following this roadmap will get you the easy high paying degree you’ve been hunting, without the guesswork.
Is an online degree as reputable as a traditional on‑campus degree?
Yes, as long as the program is regionally or nationally accredited. Employers check accreditation more than delivery method, so a fully accredited online degree holds the same weight as its campus counterpart.
Which easy degree offers the quickest path to a six‑figure salary?
Cybersecurity bachelor’s programs often lead to roles like Security Analyst or Incident Responder, which cross the six‑figure mark within 3‑5 years of experience, especially when the curriculum is competency‑based and you can finish in under four years.
Do I need a prior background in math or science for these degrees?
Most of the listed programs keep math requirements low. For example, a BBA or Health Information Management degree typically only needs basic algebra, while cybersecurity may require a modest intro to computing course-but many schools offer remedial modules.
Can I work while studying an online degree?
Absolutely. The flexibility of asynchronous classes allows you to keep a full‑time job, which also helps you avoid student‑loan debt and builds relevant experience for future roles.
How do I verify a school’s accreditation?
Visit the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, or check the accrediting agency’s website (e.g., HLC, DEAC). The school should list its accreditation status prominently on its homepage.
