Top 10 Best Degrees to Get Online in 2024
Updated: June 19, 2024
Published: January 18, 2019
When deciding what to study, you have seemingly countless options. And, if you’re looking to pursue your degree online, you could expand your opportunities beyond geographic borders, too.
Online education is rapidly gaining popularity, providing a flexible and convenient way for students worldwide to access high-quality education. Online platforms ensure high-quality education through comprehensive, interactive, and diverse course offerings that can be accessed from anywhere at any time.
We’ve pulled together a list of the best degrees online to help you along your decision journey.
Why Earn a Degree Online?
Before we dive into some of the best degrees you can get online, let’s take a moment to consider why earning a degree online is beneficial in the first place.
As an online degree seeker, you’ll get to experience the advantage of:
- Flexibility: Without having to be in a designated lecture hall or classroom at a certain time, you have schedule freedom to learn from where and when you want.
- Affordability: Online learning tends to be more affordable because you are not paying for campus expenses or commuting costs.
- Global Student Body: You still afford the opportunity of networking with a global student body that can share unique life experiences and varied cultural backgrounds.
- Lower Barriers to Entry: Most online institutions are less strict with their enrollment requirements than in-person institutions, making education more accessible for all.
Best Online College Degrees
Now, it’s time to take a look at degrees to earn online.
We’ve compiled our top ten options for best online college degrees with reasons why they made the list.
1. Computer Science
Virtually every industry relies on computer scientists in some form or another. To remain competitive in their industry, businesses need the most modern technology and internet options. Computer scientists are responsible for ensuring that the company is using the best hardware, software, and programming languages to achieve its goals. The compensation is generous for both entry-level and management positions. In a computer science degree program, students can expect to learn skills in coding, programming languages, and software development. Popular computer science specializations include Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Game Design, and Blockchain Development.
2. Business Administration
Business administration is a broad field that enables students to work in a variety of roles. Top careers you can fulfill with this degree span: chief executive officer, compensation and benefits manager, training and development manager, and administrative services manager. Business administration is ranked as one of the best degrees to get online because of the many specialization options and the high salary potential.
3. Nursing
Have the desire to care for others in a professional setting? Skilled and compassionate nurses are valued because they help patients through some of the most vulnerable moments in life. They assess and treat people and teach patients about preventive care and management. The level of training and education required varies, depending on your professional goals. The more advanced the nursing career, the higher the nursing degree and the higher the salary.
4. Marketing
Another one of the best online college degrees is marketing. The degree prepares students for a variety of rewarding marketing careers. Businesses in every industry need skilled marketing professionals to increase brand awareness and develop campaigns. Effective marketers know how to leverage technology to motivate and engage consumers, and the best part about the job is that every day tends to be different! Plus, you get to express your creativity in marketing roles.
5. Finance
The field of Finance offers lucrative and stable career prospects. Online finance programs cover topics like investment, risk management, financial planning, and corporate finance. Graduates can pursue roles such as financial analyst, personal financial advisor, investment banker, and financial manager. Finance professionals are essential in guiding businesses and individuals through complex financial decisions, making this a high-demand field.
6. Engineering
Engineering remains a critical and rewarding field, with many specializations available online. Students can pursue degrees in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or Software Engineering, among others.
Engineering programs teach problem-solving, design, and technical skills that are applicable in various industries. Engineers are essential in developing innovative solutions to everyday problems, making this a promising career choice.
7. Human Resources
Finding, keeping, and managing good employees is crucial for any organization’s success. HR managers help employers identify staffing needs, direct employee recruitment efforts, conduct interviews and call references, order background checks, coordinate new employee orientation, explain benefits, maintain employee records, consult with upper management about workplace policies and fair hiring practices, mediate workplace conflicts, coordinate employee compensation, and benefits plans, and make sure employers comply with employment laws and regulations.
8. Education
Are you interested in working in the wonderful world of education? Many programs offer online classes in instructional techniques, classroom management, and subject-specific courses such as science or math. Before you can be licensed as a teacher, a student teaching practicum with a school in your community must be completed. For career-focused instruction, early childhood education might be the answer. You could pursue entry-level positions as a teacher’s aide or early childhood educator in schools, daycares, or other educational facilities. Education drives society’s progress. Additionally, by earning a degree in education, especially a Master’s in Education, you’ll open the door to the possibilities to work in education policy and/or administration.
9. Environmental Science
Environmental science career fields with high salaries include natural science managers, geoscientists, environmental engineers, and environmental scientists and specialists. Environmental scientists work with government agencies and businesses to reduce waste, clean polluted areas, and advise policymakers.
10. Communication
A Communication degree prepares students for a variety of career options including public relations and fundraising managers, communications managers, broadcast journalists, and writers. Public relations managers write press releases, make and maintain relationships with donors and philanthropists, and raise awareness. Communication managers control the messaging of a company. The communication courses you can expect to take in an online degree consist of classes like mass media, broadcast journalism, organizational communication, and interpersonal and group communication.
How to Choose the Right Online Degree Program
Choosing the right online degree program involves thinking about what you enjoy and what your career goals are. Start by looking at programs that match your interests and offer good job prospects. Research the curriculum, the teachers, and the specific skills you’ll learn.
Make sure the program is accredited. Accredited programs, like those recognized by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), meet high standards and are respected by employers. Accreditation means the program has been thoroughly checked for quality.
Consider the program’s flexibility. Look for options that allow you to study part-time or at your own pace, especially if you have other commitments. Check out the support services offered, like academic advising and career counseling, to ensure you’ll have the help you need.
Accreditation and Quality Assurance in Online Education
Accreditation ensures that an online program meets high-quality standards. For example, University of the People (UoPeople) is accredited by the DEAC, which means It follows strict academic and ethical standards.
UoPeople is also a candidate for accreditation by the WSCUC. This status shows that the university is on its way to full accreditation and is committed to continuous improvement.
Accreditation involves a detailed review process where schools examine themselves and are evaluated by others. It ensures that the school operates well financially, offers quality programs, hires qualified teachers, and provides adequate facilities. Accredited schools also follow ethical admission practices and continuously work to improve their programs.
Choosing an accredited online degree program gives you confidence that your education meets high standards and will be respected by employers, enhancing your career prospects.
Pursuing Your Degree Online
With all this knowledge of the best degrees to get online, which one is for you? If you want to move forward and earn your degree online, consider studying at the University of the People. Our institution is tuition-free accredited, and offers degree-granting programs and non-degree certificate programs in a variety of fields, including Health Science, Education, Business Administration, and Computer Science.
You’ll get to earn an affordable degree at your own pace and from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection!
Closing Thoughts
An online degree offers great opportunities and flexibility that traditional programs might not provide. Fields like Computer Science, Business Administration, Nursing, Marketing, Finance, and Engineering are in high demand and can significantly boost your career prospects. Employers increasingly respect online degrees, especially those from accredited institutions. Choosing the right program involves considering your interests, career goals, and ensuring the program is accredited by reputable organizations like DEAC or WSCUC.
Balancing work, studies, and personal life can be challenging but manageable with good time management and the proper support. Online learning allows you to study at your own pace and from any location, helping you develop valuable skills like self-discipline and time management. Whether you’re advancing in your current field or starting a new career, an online degree can open many doors and provide a practical, effective way to achieve your educational and professional goals.
FAQs
What are the top online degrees for career advancement?
Degrees in fields like Business Administration, Computer Science, and Nursing are highly valued for career advancement due to their high demand in the job market.
What are the benefits of pursuing an online degree?
Flexibility, accessibility, and often lower costs are key benefits, along with balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities.
Can I earn a degree online while working full-time?
Yes, one of the primary advantages of online degrees is their flexibility, allowing full-time workers to schedule studies around their employment.
Are online degrees as respected as traditional degrees?
Online degrees from accredited institutions are generally as respected as those from traditional colleges, especially as online education becomes more prevalent.
What are the accreditation requirements for online degree programs?
Online programs must be accredited by recognized accrediting bodies to ensure they meet quality standards, similar to traditional programs.
How long does it take to complete an online degree?
The duration can vary, but many online degree programs offer accelerated paths, potentially allowing students to complete their studies faster than in traditional settings.
Can I pursue an online degree if I live outside the country?
Most online degree programs offer global access, allowing international students to enroll and study from anywhere in the world.
Can I interact with professors and peers in an online degree program?
Yes, most online programs facilitate interaction through forums, live sessions, group projects, and other collaborative tools.
Can I specialize in a specific area within an online degree program?
Many online degree programs offer specializations or concentrations, allowing students to focus on specific areas of interest.
Can I switch my major or program to an online degree?
Many institutions allow students to switch their major or transfer into an online program, subject to certain requirements.
What career opportunities are available with an online degree?
Online degrees can open doors to a wide range of careers, similar to traditional degrees, depending on the field of study.
Are there internship or practical experience opportunities for online students?
Yes, some online programs include internships or practical placements as part of the curriculum, often coordinated with local organizations.