Easiest Online Degrees 2022

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Updated November 11, 2022

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Some students find that online programs offer the easy route to a earn a college degree. This guide introduces some of the easiest online degree programs.

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Easy Degrees to Earn Online

A college degree can lead to more job opportunities and higher earning potential. Bachelor's degree-holders earn $27,000 more per year than those with only a high school diploma. Even the easiest online degrees can help prepare graduates for the workforce or more advanced degrees.

This guide introduces some of the easiest online degree options. Read on to learn about majors in areas such as business, education, and psychology. This page also lists resources for degree-seekers. Click the embedded links for more information.

"I tend to find it easy and affordable compared to other online classes."

See Student Reviews

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Degree Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

What Makes an Online Degree Easy?

Some students find that online programs offer the easiest route to a college degree. See below for some of the factors that make earning an online degree easier than a campus-based degree.

  1. 1

    Program Flexibility

    Online programs prioritize flexibility. Many schools design their online programs for working students. Synchronous programs may offer evening or weekend classes with live lectures. Asynchronous programs do not require live meetings. Instead, enrollees complete coursework around their schedules. This flexibility allows learners to balance school with other responsibilities.

  2. 2

    Fully Online Options

    Many online programs do not require campus visits. Students can earn their degree completely online. This benefit allows them to attend the most affordable program without relocating.

    However, online programs may include in-person components. Students may need to complete virtual simulations or experiential programs. For example, online nursing programs connect nursing students with local hospitals for supervised clinical training.

  3. 3

    Affordable Programs

    Distance learners may spend $100-$600 per credit to earn a bachelor's degree. An online format makes it even easier for students to save money. Learners can extend their search beyond local schools. They can attend the most affordable programs without commuting or moving.

    Students attending accredited online schools also qualify for various forms of financial aid. Examples may include grants, institutional aid, and scholarships. These resources help make college more affordable.

  4. 4

    Excellent Support Services

    Many online colleges support distance learners with services such as academic advising and tutoring. Online students can also access libraries and writing centers. Other support may include financial aid counseling and mentorship services. These services can help enrollees adjust to online learning.

  5. 5

    Program Variety

    Learners researching the easiest online degrees can find many degrees available fully online. Enrollees can pursue degrees in diverse areas, including business, education, and technology. Schools that offer online programs often provide strong support services, alumni networks, and employer connections.

Benefits of the Easiest Online Degree

Online programs offer many benefits, including convenience and affordability. This section introduces some of the benefits of earning a degree online.

  1. 1

    Customization Options

    Online learners can choose the program format that suits their needs and lifestyle. Synchronous programs feature set meeting times. Self-paced programs allow learners to complete coursework when it fits their schedule.

  2. 2

    Save on Commuting Costs

    Commuting to campus costs time and money. Distance learners save on transportation and parking costs. They can complete coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. Instead of sitting in traffic, online students can use this time to study.

  3. 3

    Advance Your Career or Start a New One

    Many careers require a college degree. An online format makes it easier to advance in your current field or launch a new career. Many online programs cater to working students. Learners can earn a degree while continuing to earn a paycheck. This benefit can help them avoid student debt.

Easiest Majors and Degrees to Get Online

Some of the easiest online degrees include business, education, and liberal arts. Many schools offer online degrees in these in-demand areas. See below for some of the easiest degrees to earn online.

  1. 1

    Business

    Online business degrees prepare learners for diverse careers. Degree-seekers may specialize in areas like accounting, marketing, or finance. Many online colleges offer concentrations in healthcare administration and entrepreneurship.

    Business degrees focus on analytical, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Online programs often include internships to provide hands-on experience. Business degree-holders may work as financial analysts, accountants, or healthcare administrators. After earning a bachelor's in business, graduates may pursue a master's degree.

  2. 2

    Liberal Arts

    Liberal arts programs hone critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Students pursuing this degree take courses in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Bachelor's programs take four years to complete. Learners study topics such as history, psychology, and biology.

    Many online colleges offer liberal arts degree-completion programs. Students with several transfer credits can often apply more credits toward a flexible major like liberal arts. Graduates may work in business, sales, or communications.

  3. 3

    Education

    Online education programs train learners for careers as teachers, instructional designers, or school administrators. Bachelor's programs cover teaching techniques and assessment strategies. Online learners complete a local, in-person teaching experience. An accredited bachelor's in education typically meets the requirement for a teaching license.

    Many schools also offer master's programs in areas such as education leadership and curriculum and instruction. Earning a master's degree can help educators increase their earning potential and advance their careers. Graduate students may specialize in areas like higher education or educational technology.

  4. 4

    English

    A bachelor's degree in English builds strong communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Enrollees study topics such as creative writing and literary theory. Coursework trains learners in written communication and persuasion. Many programs offer career-focused concentrations in editing and professional writing. Graduates with an English degree may work as teachers, writers, or editors.

  5. 5

    Nursing

    A popular on-campus program, nursing is also among the easiest online degrees for aspiring healthcare professionals. Many schools offer two-year associate degrees and one-year RN-to-BSN degrees. Graduates may work as registered nurses. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $75,330, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

    Online nursing programs include lectures, simulations, and in-person practicums. Coursework covers topics such as health assessment and health informatics. Students strengthen their patient-care skills during supervised clinical experiences. Nurses can earn a master's or doctorate online to work as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or nurse midwives.

  6. 6

    Criminal Justice

    Criminal justice programs teach learners about the U.S. justice system. Enrollees may specialize in areas like homeland security, juvenile justice, or forensic science. These concentrations prepare graduates for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and the court system.

    Learners complete various criminal justice classes. They also take courses in sociology and psychology. The curriculum strengthens analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills. Online learners may complete local internships to gain hands-on experience.

  7. 7

    Psychology

    Psychology is a popular and easy online degree. Learners study human development, cognitive psychology, and abnormal psychology. Enrollees explore social behaviors, personalities, and mental health conditions. Degree-seekers also take general education classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

    Students develop strong research and analytical skills. They learn how to design research studies and evaluate experimental results. Degree-seekers also learn how to critique research. Graduates may work as psychiatric technicians, behavioral disorder counselors, or analysts.

  8. 8

    Agriculture Science

    Online agriculture science programs cover agricultural policy, business, and the natural sciences. Many colleges allow enrollees to customize their degree. Students may specialize in animal science or agricultural education.

    Degree-seekers take courses in the life sciences, agricultural sciences, and business. Common required courses include plant science and soil science. Graduates can pursue careers in the agricultural sector.

Student Reviews About Earning Online Degrees

We believe the best people to share about online learning experiences are students who have really done it, which is why we surveyed 600 unique students. Filter to find a student like you or sort to read the good, the bad, and everything in between. By leaving a review, students were entered to win a sweepstakes.

* means this student may have had to visit the campus a few times a year for their program.

  • Age 40
  • M.Sc Geology
  • University of California
  • Online *

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"It's appealing to me, and it's very easy to navigate through the process."

  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 37
  • Master of Medicine
  • Oxford University
  • Online

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

3.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Because it will be safe and easy for me"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Business Administration
  • Ezenwata Academy
  • Online *

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Because I tend to find it very easy and affordable compared to other online classes and so on."

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 36
  • BA in Accountancy, Major in Banking and Finance
  • University of New Mexico
  • Online *

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"More easy and convenient for me to still have time for my family"

  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 28
  • Bachelor of Science Information Technology
  • LSU
  • Online *

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"I picked online online because it was easy on my family life."

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 45
  • Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Business Administration
  • Online

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"I find it an easy and effective means of acquiring a good quality education"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 49
  • Bachelor of Science in Statistics
  • University of California
  • Online *

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Because it was easy"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 25
  • Business Education Master's Degree Financial Studies
  • University of Phoenix
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Your study schedule was very easy"

  • Financial assitance
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 25
  • Information Technology
  • Oxford University
  • Online *

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Easy and convenient for me"

  • Financial assitance
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Master of Business Administration
  • PHOENIX University
  • Online *

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Online education is very easy programming, and you will have time to work and some others thing. Online class is the best for working class."

  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 36
  • Master of education
  • Wilkes
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Easy and cheap"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 40
  • Master's Degree
  • California State University, Los Angeles
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Because it's more easy and stress free"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 40
  • Master of Information Technology
  • Harvard University
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"For easy access to class"

  • Financial assitance
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
  • University of Arizona
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Everything about an online degree is very interesting and easy to understand"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 38
  • Master of Business Administration
  • Oregon State University
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Because it's very good and easy"

  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Master of Banking and Finance
  • University of California
  • Online *

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"It is affordable and easy"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Web Development Bachelor's Degree
  • Udemy
  • Online

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

3.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Because it is more convenient and easy"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 40
  • Master's Degree in Information and Technology
  • Indiana Wesleyan
  • Online

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Due to my work I have to make it easy for myself"

  • Financial assitance
  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Technology, Software Developer
  • Coursera
  • Online *

Experience

4.0
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Value

4.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"I found it a good and easy way to have certificate"

  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 38
  • Medical Billing
  • Study USA
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

4.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"because it is easy to learn"

  • First generation student
  • Works in field of study
  • Has support system
Recommends
  • Age 35
  • Associate - General Studies
  • Columbia College
  • Online

Experience

5.0
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Value

5.0
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Affordability

5.0
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Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?

"Easy access and flexible hours."

  • Has support system
Recommends

Additional Online Resources

The U.S. Department of Labor sponsors this site. Students and job-seekers can explore career paths and find training programs. The site also features a job finder, scholarship finder, and tools to assess interests. The National Center for Education Statistics publishes data on colleges in College Navigator. The site lets visitors compare schools, view enrollment numbers, and research graduation rates. College Navigator also provides information on tuition, program offerings, and financial aid. The BLS publishes information on occupations, median pay, and educational requirements on this site. Visitors can use the site to find careers by the entry-level education, number of new jobs, salary, or projected growth rate. The site also provides information about entering new careers. This site lists scholarships with information about eligibility requirements and the application process. Online learners attending accredited institutions typically qualify for the same scholarships as in-person students. FastWeb also offers resources on budgeting for college and finding internships. The federal student aid office distributes $120 billion in financial aid every year. Students can learn about financial aid sources, how to qualify for grants, and how to complete the FAFSA on the site. Learners can also explore resources on state financial aid and institutional aid.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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