One student's difficulty may be another student's difficulty. But even though the level of ease of a college major varies by your skills, aptitudes, and interests, some programs are more challenging than others.
Now, we're not advocating that you choose a major because it's easy. But when you're looking for the major that best aligns with your academic and career goals, having an idea of what to expect is never a bad thing. That's why we've crafted this list.
Keep reading to learn more about the easiest online degrees and majors of 2024.
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Popular Bachelor's Degrees
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Easiest Online Majors
Check out the easiest college majors below:
Finding the major that meets your needs is essential, and having a clear idea of how challenging a major might be is valuable. In choosing the following list of easiest majors, we considered course requirements, time spent studying, and field requirements. And because math and science courses tend to be difficult for many students, we chose majors with fewer STEM courses.
In fact, college advisor Stephanie DeBord said, "Often, liberal arts or general studies degrees are viewed as easier in terms of rigor because they encompass a wide range of courses that can align to different learning styles and preferences."
But keep in mind that course curriculum isn't everything.
"It is important to note that even if a certain major is considered more flexible or less rigorous, pursuing a degree is going to require a significant amount of dedication and effort to complete," said DeBord.
Read on as we highlight the easiest online degrees.1. Anthropology
Anthropology not only offers you a less stressful academic pathway, but allows you to hone effective communication and research skills. During your online anthropology program, you'll tackle courses like human origins, cultural anthropology, and environmental anthropology. These programs typically require you to complete 120 credits over about four years.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Fundraising Manager | $125,620 |
Museum Worker | $53,420 |
Market Research Analyst | $68,230 |
Community Service Manager | $74,240 |
Environmental Engineer | $96,530 |
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.
Popular Anthropology Programs
2. Business Administration
One of the most popular college majors in the United States, a bachelor's in business administration introduces foundational business topics as well as specialized areas like business analytics, operations management, and accounting.
If you have a knack for critical thinking, problem-solving, and foundational math skills, a business administration degree shouldn't be too challenging.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Sales Manager | $130,600 |
Marketing Manager | $138,730 |
Market Research Analyst | $68,230 |
Purchasing Manager | $75,120 |
Financial Manager | $139,790 |
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.
Popular Business Administration Programs
3. Communications
Learning how to communicate effectively is a valuable skill that applies to countless jobs. A bachelor's in communications consistently ranks among the easiest college majors, and you'll tackle classes such as public speaking, introduction to communication theory, and organizational communication. Graduates often work in fields such as sales, marketing, and public relations.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Technical Writer | $79,960 |
Editor | $73,080 |
Public Relations Specialist | $67,440 |
Fundraising Manager | $125,620 |
Advertising Sales Agent | $58,450 |
4. Creative Writing
If you've got a way with words, a bachelor's in creative writing will definitely feel like one of the easiest online degrees. Throughout a creative writing bachelor's, you'll hone essential reading, writing, and critical thinking skills while encountering classes like the craft of writing fiction, fundamentals of creative reading, and literature and the environment.
Alongside writing careers, graduates often find jobs where effective communication is paramount.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Writer | $73,150 |
Technical Writer | $79,960 |
Editor | $73,080 |
Journalist | $55,960 |
Public Relations Specialist | $67,440 |
5. Criminal Justice
Although criminal justice often ranks alongside the easiest online degrees, graduates often go on to tackle challenging careers. During a bachelor's in criminal justice, you'll typically encounter courses that cover topics like the U.S. legal system, corrections, and constitutional law. Common careers for graduates include various law enforcement and corrections jobs.
Criminal Justice Careers | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Police and Detectives | $69,160 |
Correctional Officer | $49,610 |
Emergency Management Director | $79,180 |
Private Investigator | $52,120 |
Probation Officer | $59,860 |
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.
Popular Criminal Justice Programs
6. Education
While teachers encounter their fair share of professional challenges, their academic pathway is often easier than most. A bachelor's in education introduces the theoretical and practical knowledge that educators rely on, and you'll likely complete courses like educational foundations, childhood development, and elementary reading methods. Typical careers for education grads include teachers, administrators, and instructional coordinators.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Elementary School Teacher | $61,620 |
Middle School Teacher | $61,810 |
High School Teacher | $62,360 |
Special Education Teacher | $62,950 |
Career and Technical Education Teacher | $61,450 |
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.
Popular Education Programs
7. English
While not the most challenging degree, English majors hone a set of valuable skills that apply to numerous careers. Throughout your bachelor's in English, you commonly complete classes such as intro to creative writing, survey of African American literature, and poetry in the 20th century. Graduates go on to work in diverse fields like teaching, marketing, and healthcare.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
High School Teacher | $62,360 |
Writer | $73,150 |
Technical Writer | $79,960 |
Advertising Manager | $138,730 |
Public Relations Specialist | $67,440 |
8. Health Sciences
If you're comfortable with business and leadership coursework and want to work in healthcare, a health sciences degree is a solid option. Often leading to careers in areas like public health and healthcare administration, health sciences students complete courses like healthcare delivery, leading change, and introduction to public health.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Clinical Laboratory Tech | $57,380 |
Health Services Manager | $104,830 |
Health Information Technologist | $58,250 |
Medical Records Specialist | $47,180 |
Manufacturing Sales Representative | $67,750 |
9. History
Like other humanities degrees, a bachelor's in history allows you to develop marketable skills in research and writing. If you're interested in history, research, and writing, this degree shouldn't be too challenging.
Throughout your bachelor's in history, you'll complete courses in various historical areas, including American, European, and ancient history. Many students also use this degree as preparation for graduate-level study.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Museum Worker | $53,420 |
Paralegal | $59,200 |
High School Teacher | $62,360 |
Editor | $73,080 |
Writer | $73,150 |
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.
Popular History Programs
10. Humanities
Another one of the easiest online degrees, a bachelor's in humanities is an interdisciplinary track that covers areas like history, philosophy, religion, and literature. Similar to other degrees on this list, you'll develop effective communication, critical thinking, and research skills that apply to countless professional fields. Many humanities graduates go on to complete graduate-level degrees.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Writer | $73,150 |
Human Resources Manager | $130,000 |
Market Research Analyst | $68,230 |
Technical Writer | $79,960 |
Public Relations Specialist | $67,440 |
11. Liberal Arts
Similar to a general humanities degree, a bachelor of liberal arts is an interdisciplinary track that covers art, humanities, social science, and math coursework. These programs allow you to craft a curriculum that mirrors your academic and career goals. Common classes include diverse topics such as introduction to computer science, introduction to psychology, and composition.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Public Relations Specialist | $67,440 |
Paralegal | $59,200 |
Journalist | $55,960 |
Community Service Manager | $74,240 |
Project Management Specialist | $95,370 |
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.
Popular Liberal Arts Programs
12. Linguistics
In a linguistics program, you'll learn how language works by exploring the structure, use, and development of languages around the world. If you're culturally curious and love languages, consider a bachelor's in linguistics. You'll tackle classes such as the philosophy of language, indigenous languages of Latin America, and the linguistics of contemporary English.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Translator | $53,640 |
ESL Teacher | $58,590 |
High School Teacher | $62,360 |
Training and Development Specialist | $63,080 |
Human Resources Specialist | $64,240 |
13. Music
If you're musically inclined and passionate about the field, a bachelor's in music shouldn't be especially challenging. Throughout your bachelor's in music, you'll tackle courses in music theory, performance, and history. Upon graduation, music majors commonly work as teachers, performers, and for various music-related organizations.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Musician | $39.14/hour |
Music Director | $62,940 |
High School Teacher | $62,360 |
Preschool Teacher | $35,330 |
Fundraising Manager | $125,620 |
14. Psychology
A bachelor's in psychology ranks among the easiest majors. You can develop skills that apply to varying careers in counseling or marketing. As you complete your undergraduate psychology degree, you'll take classes such as human development, psychology theories, and research in the psychology field.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Market Research Analyst | $68,230 |
Behavior Analyst | $71,000 (Based on data from Nov. 2023) |
Survey Researcher | $60,410 |
Training and Development Specialist | $63,080 |
Substance Misuse Counselor | $49,710 |
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.
Popular Psychology Programs
15. Religious Studies
Another one of the easiest online degrees, a bachelors in theology or religious studies can open up careers both inside and outside religious institutions. Throughout your online religious studies degree, you'll complete classes such as biblical studies, theological history, and principles of ministry. Some schools also offer concentrations in areas like ministry administration, pastoral counseling, and religious education.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Clergy | $55,550 |
Social Service Manager | $74,240 |
Social Worker | $55,350 |
Facilities Manager | $101,870 |
Preschool Teacher | $35,330 |
16. Social Work
If you're interested in a career helping others but want a low-stress degree, social work is a solid choice. During a bachelor's in social work, you'll gain the knowledge and hone the skills essential to competent and compassionate social work.
In addition to core social work classes, many schools offer specializations in areas like community advocacy, aging, public health, mental health and substance misuse.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Social Worker | $55,350 |
Community Health Worker | $59,990 |
Correctional Treatment Specialist | $59,860 |
Community Service Manager | $74,240 |
Human Services Assistant | $38,520 |
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.
Popular Social Work Programs
17. Sociology
If you're looking for an easy college degree while exploring topics like social justice, human behavior, and diversity, a bachelor's in sociology may be the perfect match. Typically taking four years to complete, sociology students complete core classes alongside specializations in areas like mass media and popular culture, social welfare, and social change.
Career | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) |
---|---|
Sales Manager | $130,600 |
Market Research Analyst | $68,230 |
Social Worker | $55,350 |
Survey Researcher | $60,410 |
Financial Analyst | $96,220 |
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.
Popular Sociology Programs
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.
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Student characteristics
Topic
* 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 *
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
- Age 37
- Master of Medicine
- Oxford University
- Online
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
- Age 35
- Business Administration
- Ezenwata Academy
- Online *
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
- Age 36
- BA in Accountancy, Major in Banking and Finance
- University of New Mexico
- Online *
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
- Age 28
- Bachelor of Science Information Technology
- LSU
- Online *
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
- Age 45
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Business Administration
- Online
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
- Age 49
- Bachelor of Science in Statistics
- University of California
- Online *
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
- Age 25
- Business Education Master's Degree Financial Studies
- University of Phoenix
- Online
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
- Age 25
- Information Technology
- Oxford University
- Online *
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
- Age 35
- Master of Business Administration
- PHOENIX University
- Online *
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
- Age 36
- Master of education
- Wilkes
- Online
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
- Age 40
- Master's Degree
- California State University, Los Angeles
- Online
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
- Age 40
- Master of Information Technology
- Harvard University
- Online
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"For easy access to class"
- Financial assitance
- Has support system
- Age 35
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- University of Arizona
- Online
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
- Age 38
- Master of Business Administration
- Oregon State University
- Online
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
- Age 35
- Master of Banking and Finance
- University of California
- Online *
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
- Age 35
- Web Development Bachelor's Degree
- Udemy
- Online
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
- Age 40
- Master's Degree in Information and Technology
- Indiana Wesleyan
- Online
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
- Age 35
- Technology, Software Developer
- Coursera
- Online *
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
- Age 38
- Medical Billing
- Study USA
- Online
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
- Age 35
- Associate - General Studies
- Columbia College
- Online
Why did you decide to enroll in an online degree or certification program?
"Easy access and flexible hours."
- Has support system
Frequently Asked Questions About the Easiest Online Degrees
What are the easiest online degrees to get?
Determining what online degree is easiest is primarily based on your unique skills. That said, don't be discouraged if coursework is challenging, and be sure to utilize any of your school's ample resources to help you along the way.
What are the easiest college majors?
No college would advertise a major as "easy," because a major's level of difficulty is mostly subjective. A student with a knack for STEM may thrive in math classes but struggle when faced with writing a paper about Shakespeare.
What are the hardest college majors?
Your individual strengths, weaknesses, and interests will determine how hard you'll find various college majors. That said, some programs have a reputation for being especially difficult. Some of these include engineering, physics, architecture, and computer science.
What is the fastest bachelor's degree?
For the most part, a bachelor's degree will take you about four years to complete. But some online programs offer accelerated pathways that allow you to complete coursework more quickly.
What makes an online degree easy?
An easy online program is one that aligns with your skills and interests. Still, coursework will become increasingly challenging as you progress through your program.
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