21 Easy Degrees That Pay Well: Pick Degrees Leading To More

Feeling overwhelmed by all the college choices out there? Trust me, you’re not alone!

With so many degree programs, including associate degree program options and college majors, finding the right college major can be overwhelming.

You may not have a specific career in mind and are focused more on high-paying jobs that can get you to where you want to be.

What if there’s a way to combine your passion with a well-paying job? You can look for a degree that’s easy to acquire and pays well with multiple job options.

Many college majors not only offer promising job opportunities and competitive salaries but also allow students to focus on their interests and aptitudes.

Whether you’re a creative writer or a business-minded individual, there’s an easy degree for you.

Quick Picks

Highest Pay Potential – Supply Chain Management
Quickest Associate’s Degree – Business Administration
My Top Career- No Degree Required – Blogging
Easy Carer To Start W/ No Experience – Proofreading

21 Easy Degrees That Pay Well

1. Business Administration

Median Annual Salary: $67,033
Main Jobs:

Health Services Manager 
Administrative Services Manager 
Marketing Manager 

Thinking about a Business Administration Degree? You’re onto something good. This is one of those bachelor’s degrees that’s not just easy to get but also super practical.

It’s a curriculum that’s like a one-stop-shop for all things business: management, finance, marketing, human resources, and accounting.

But here’s the kicker: you’re not just learning a single skill. Nope, you’re getting the full package when you go for this bachelor’s degree.

You’ll understand how to manage a team, make smart money moves, market like a pro, keep your employees happy, and make sense of all those numbers.

Those skills can translate to many different careers, so this college degree can help get you into many industries.

2. Finance

Median Annual Salary: $67,829
Main Jobs:

Financial Planner 
Financial Analyst 
Investor Relations Associate  

A Finance bachelor’s degree is your go-to for unlocking a world of opportunities in the financial sector.

This degree program delves into various aspects, from financial analysis and investment banking to financial management.

As a newbie in the finance world, you could be eyeing roles like market research analyst, financial planner, or corporate finance associate.

But this degree is more than just a piece of paper; it’s designed to equip students with the skills needed for a stable and fulfilling career in the business world.

You’re not limited to one job; this program is all about allowing students to have options. And these options come with salaries that let you plan for more than just the next paycheck.

3. Marketing

Median Annual Salary: $56,295
Main Jobs:

Corporate Communications Director 
Market Research Analysts  
Director of Email Marketing  

A Marketing bachelor’s degree is a win-win for your career. It ranks among the easy degrees that pay well, and if you have a talent for it, opportunities abound.

The bachelor’s degree program teaches you the essentials: how to understand consumer behavior, the art of crafting effective ads, and the mechanics of driving sales. 

It’s a degree that pairs well with other business-focused programs, offering a broad skill set in high demand. 

With a Marketing degree, you’re setting the stage for various career options in market research, brand management, marketing managers, and public relations, among others. 

Even better, the rise of remote work means you can often do marketing jobs from the comfort of your own home if you become a freelancer.

4. Human Resources

Median Annual Salary:  $60,000
Main Jobs:

Human Resources Manager  
Talent Acquisition Specialist  
Compensation and Benefits Manager  

A Human Resources degree is your guide to mastering everything HR.

This business degree covers a wide range of topics, from recruiting and benefits management to training and payroll.

It’s a comprehensive degree designed for students pursuing a career in human resources and those who want to work on improving people’s jobs in their company.

This degree is one of those degrees that pay well and offer a variety of career paths. You could find yourself as a human resources manager, a recruiter, or a training and development specialist.

As a graduate, you’ll be well-prepared to step into different roles within the HR field.

5. Computer Science

Median Annual Salary: $66,180
Main Jobs:

Software Developer  
Data Scientist  
Systems Analyst 

A Computer Science degree is more than just a four-year college degree; it’s your passport to some of the highest-paying careers in today’s job market.

This degree program doesn’t just equip students with technical skills; it gives you a comprehensive understanding of how computers and technology shape our world.

You’ll be diving into subjects like algorithms, data structures, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.

But it doesn’t stop there; you’ll also be able to specialize in trending areas like cybersecurity, machine learning, or artificial intelligence.

6. Supply Chain Management

Median Annual Salary: $123,362
Main Jobs:

Supply Chain Analyst
Logistics Manager
Procurement Manager

A Supply Chain Management degree is your roadmap to mastering the logistics of moving products efficiently from point A to point B.

You’ll dive into everything from procurement and operations management to logistics and marketing channels.

But it’s not all theory; you’ll also get practical skills in demand planning, sourcing, production, and inventory management.

This hands-on learning prepares you for the real world and to keep production smooth in whatever role you play.

Whether you’re eyeing roles in retail, manufacturing, healthcare, or technology, you’ll be well-equipped to excel and pick one of the highest-paying career options.

7. Communications

Median Annual Salary: $72, 776
Main Jobs:

Public Relations Specialist
Communications Manager
Content Creator

A Communications degree is all about mastering the art of effective communication- and we could all use some help with communicating better!

You’ll study everything from public speaking and group dynamics to crafting strong arguments and understanding various media platforms.

With a four-year college degree in Communications, you’re not just job-ready; you’re prepared to adapt and excel in a rapidly changing world.

This degree can often be a stepping stone into some of the highest-paying career paths besides just communications fields.

You could find yourself in roles like public relations, law, advertising, or social media management.

8. Information Technology

Median Annual Salary: $66,919
Main Jobs:

IT Manager
Network Administrator
Cybersecurity Analyst

An Information Technology (IT) degree is one of those college majors that prepares students for a dynamic career in the tech world.

The curriculum is designed to give you a rock-solid foundation in computing basics that you can use to create apps, programs, websites, and more.

Think programming languages like Python and Java and the nitty-gritty of database management.

You’ll also get into network administration, where you’ll learn how to set up and keep local and wide-area networks secure.

Cybersecurity is another biggie, teaching you the ropes of protecting data and systems from unauthorized access.

And here’s the kicker: this degree doesn’t just open doors to tech companies. You’ll be a hot commodity for high-paying jobs in various sectors like healthcare, finance, and retail.

9. English

Median Annual Salary: $56,339
Main Jobs:

Editor
Technical Writer
Copywriter

An English degree is your guide to the world of language and literature. You’ll start with the basics, like grammar and the structure of the English language. 

Then, you’ll dive into literature, everything from classics like Shakespeare to modern-day works. 

But it’s not just about reading and learning about classic tales; you’ll also get to try different types of writing, like creative writing and journalism.

You’ll also sharpen your critical thinking skills. You’ll learn how to analyze what you read, make strong arguments, and even do some scholarly research. 

When it comes to jobs, an English degree opens many doors. You could go into teaching, become a journalist, work in publishing, or even land a job in marketing. 

Wherever strong writing and analytical skills are needed, you’ll find job opportunities.

10. Criminal Justice

Median Annual Salary: $61,213
Main Jobs:

Police Officer
Forensic Analyst
Probation Officer

If you’re interested in law enforcement or the legal system, a Criminal Justice degree is a solid choice and a stepping stone to many careers.

It’s designed to give you the book smarts and practical skills needed to succeed. You’ll come out of this program ready to tackle the complexities of the criminal justice system.

The degree program is thorough, covering a range of subjects from criminology to forensic science and even ethics and public policy.

The job market for Criminal Justice grads is diverse. You’re not limited to just one career path; you can find your own way, whether that’s in law enforcement, corrections, or even legal analysis.

Whether you’re interested in being on the front lines as a police officer, working behind the scenes as a probation officer, or analyzing laws and policies, this degree has you covered.

11. Psychology

Median Annual Salary: $84,374
Main Jobs:

Clinical Psychologist
School Counselor
Human Resources Specialist

A Psychology degree is all about understanding the human mind and behavior. This degree dives into various aspects of psychology, including cognitive, social, and clinical psychology.

You’ll learn how to analyze behavior, understand mental processes, and apply this knowledge in real-world situations.

It’s a bachelor’s degree that opens the door to a multitude of job opportunities in healthcare, education, and even corporate settings.

For those who want to go further, this degree can also be a stepping stone to advanced studies and specialized fields like counseling or research.

12. Healthcare Administration

Median Annual Salary: $85,197 
Main Jobs:

Healthcare Administrator
Medical Office Manager
Health Policy Analyst

A Healthcare Administration degree is tailored for those who want to manage the business side of healthcare.

This degree program focuses on the ins and outs of healthcare systems, from hospital management to healthcare laws and ethics.

It equips students with the administrative skills needed to oversee healthcare facilities, manage staff, and ensure patient care standards are met.

With this degree, you could find yourself in roles ranging from a healthcare manager to a policy analyst, with promising salaries and job stability.

13. Liberal Arts

Median Annual Salary: $39,349
Main Jobs:

Research Analyst
Public Relations Manager
Non-profit Program Manager

A Liberal Arts degree is often considered an easy bachelor’s degree that offers a buffet of educational experiences for humanities majors.

It covers everything from history and literature to philosophy and creative arts. But it doesn’t stop there; you’ll also touch on natural sciences, sociology, and psychology.

So, what’s next after graduation? You could dive into education, journalism, or public relations.

And if you’re considering going further, this degree is a solid stepping stone to an advanced degree. It’s all about giving you options and the skills to excel, no matter where you land.

14. Community Service Manager

Median Annual Salary: $61,689
Main Jobs:

Social Services Manager
Non-profit Organization Manager
Community Outreach Coordinator

A Community Service Manager degree is all about preparing you to make a positive impact in your community.

It equips students with the skills to manage social service programs, work with community members, and advocate for positive change.

This degree program focuses on social work, public administration, and community development.

You could work in various settings like non-profit organizations, government agencies, or even healthcare facilities.

It can lead to many fulfilling career paths that allow you to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

15. Photography

Median Annual Salary: $41,090
Main Jobs:

Commercial Photographer
Photojournalist
Portrait Photographer

A Photography degree is your pathway to capturing the world through a lens.

The degree program teaches you the technical skills and artistic vision needed to excel in various types of photography, from portrait and landscape to commercial and journalistic.

 It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about telling stories and conveying emotions through visual art.

As a photography major, you could work freelance, sell stock photos, join a media company, or even start your own photography business.

16. Fine Arts

Median Annual Salary: $50,533
Main Jobs:

Art Director
Graphic Designer
Museum Curator

A Fine Arts degree gives you a comprehensive understanding of visual and performing arts.

Focusing on artistic expression, fine arts graduates can explore roles in advertising, animation, film, fashion, and more, depending on their interests and skills.

You’ll also learn about the business aspects of art, such as how to market your work and manage a gallery. 

Career opportunities are diverse, allowing you to work in various settings like art galleries, museums, or even as a freelance artist.

17. Zoology

Median Annual Salary: $79,165
Main Job:

Wildlife Biologist
Zookeeper
Environmental Consultant

A Zoology college major is all about the scientific study of animals, from the tiniest insects to the largest mammals.

You’ll learn about the physiology of animals, how they behave, and how they interact with their environment.

It’s not just classroom learning; many programs offer hands-on experiences like fieldwork and lab studies to give you a complete understanding of the subject.

There are different career paths that you could go into with a zoology degree. You could go into animal research, focusing on understanding specific species or broader ecosystems.

You could also work as a zookeeper, feeding and caring for animals to ensure their habitats are comfortable and the best fit.

18. Culinary Arts

Median Annual Salary: $44,173
Main Jobs:

Executive Chef
Pastry Chef
Food Stylist

If the kitchen is your sanctuary and you see every meal as an opportunity for creativity, a Culinary Arts degree will take your skills to the next level and lead to a fulfilling career.  

Many programs also delve into the business side of food, teaching you how to manage a kitchen, plan menus, and even run your restaurant. 

With this degree, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting experiences that people will savor. 

A Culinary Arts degree leads to careers in food service, such as chefs, bakers, and caterers.

But careers can be more diverse in the culinary world, including other restaurant roles, food media, and more.

19. Occupational Therapy

Median Annual Salary: $97,617
Main Jobs:

Occupational Therapy Assistant 
Rehabilitation Director 
Pediatric Occupational Therapist 

An Occupational Therapy degree is one of the easiest college majors that pay well, setting students on a path toward a highest-paying career in healthcare and rehabilitation.

This higher education program is more than just lectures and textbooks; it’s about hands-on training.

You’ll learn the ropes of occupational therapy, focusing on treating individuals with various physical or cognitive challenges.

The goal is to become a skilled occupational therapy assistant or take it a step further with specialized skills to create personalized treatment plans aimed at helping people live fuller, happier lives.

You could find yourself working in hospitals, schools, or even corporate settings, making this degree a versatile choice for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.

20. Management Information Systems

Median Annual Salary: $81,267
Main Jobs:

Business Analyst 
Systems Analyst 
IT Manager 

For those who see themselves at the intersection of technology and business, a Management Information Systems (MIS) degree is ideal. 

It’s a high-demand degree, offering job stability and a competitive salary in jobs that often exceed the average for other business-related degrees.

This program doesn’t just teach you how to crunch numbers; it teaches you how to translate data into actionable business strategies.

You’ll learn about project management, data analytics, and even cybersecurity. The career paths are diverse, from data analyst and IT manager to business analyst roles.

21. Astronomy

Median Annual Salary: $54,791
Main Jobs:

Astronomer 
Research Scientist 
Data Analyst 

If the mysteries of the universe captivate you, an Astronomy degree offers a chance to turn that fascination into a career. 

This program isn’t just about stargazing; it’s about using scientific methods to understand celestial bodies, the physics of the universe, and even the fundamentals of time and space. 

With an astronomy major, you’ll get hands-on experience with telescopes and other observational tools, and you may even have opportunities for internships with organizations like NASA. 

Career options include research scientist roles, academic positions, and even science communication roles in media.

Degrees Programs To Check Out

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Types of Degrees – Bachelor’s, Master’s, Associate, Certificate Programs
Popular Programs – Business Administration, Computer Science, Psychology, Nursing

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private university between Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire.

They have online and on-campus options, making it a flexible choice for many students.  

The university is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and has received several awards for its online programs.

Columbus State University

Types of Degrees – Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate
Popular Programs – Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, Cybersecurity, Health Science

Columbus State University is a public institution focusing on research and community engagement. They offer undergraduate and graduate programs and have several research centers. 

Plus, you can take in-person or online classes, giving you flexibility to get your degree around your schedule.

The university is home to several research centers and institutes- from cybersecurity to environmental sciences, they provide students with ample opportunities for research and practical experience. 

University Of Phoenix

Types of Degrees – Associate Degree, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate, Certificate Programs
Popular Programs – Information Technology, Business Management, Healthcare Administration, Accounting

The University of Phoenix is a go-to for those who need a flexible learning schedule, especially working adults and parents working on college majors, like an associate degree.

The university doesn’t just offer flexibility; it also provides a user-friendly online experience.

You’ll find interactive classrooms that make remote learning engaging, not to mention a comprehensive digital library for all your research needs.

Bellevue University

Types of Degrees – Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate
Popular Programs – Software Development, Marketing Management, Behavioral Science, Supply Chain Management

Bellevue University is located in Bellevue, Nebraska, and is a private institution specializing in adult education and career-focused programs.

The university is known for its “Real Mastery” approach, which emphasizes real-world applications of knowledge and skills.

This approach is integrated into their online and on-campus programs, making the education highly relevant to current job markets.

The university has strong ties with local businesses and industries, providing students with internship and job placement opportunities.

Capella University

Types of Degrees – Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate Degree, Certificate Programs
Popular Programs – Mental Health Counseling, Project Management, Public Health, Educational Leadership

Capella University is an accredited online institution offering flexible, career-relevant online degree programs.

One of its standout features is the competency-based curriculum, which allows students to earn credits based on their demonstrated skills and knowledge rather than just time spent in class.

The model is particularly beneficial for working professionals who can apply their work experience toward their degree.

Capella also offers a unique “FlexPath” option, which allows students to set their deadlines, providing maximum flexibility.

FAQs

What are easy but well-paying careers?

Finding a career that’s both easy and well-paying can feel like hitting the jackpot.

While “easy” is subjective, some careers offer a good income with just a high school diploma or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

Here are some easy and well-paid careers to consider:

Real Estate Agent – This role is helping people buy and sell homes; no college is needed, but you must get a state license.
Marketing Manager – This role is about understanding consumer behavior and crafting effective marketing strategies.
Administrative Assistant – This role involves managing schedules and communications for a senior executive.
Human Resources – This field is considered an easy and well-paying career option, focusing on managing people within an organization.

So, whether you have an associate degree, a high school diploma, or are self-taught, there are career paths that offer ease and a good paycheck.

What is the easiest degree I can get?

There are some bachelor’s and associate degree programs that are generally considered to be less rigorous than others.

This can be because they require fewer math or science courses, have a more straightforward curriculum, or offer more flexible scheduling options. 

Here are some degrees that are often cited as being relatively easy to earn:

Liberal Arts – A liberal arts degree covers history, literature, and philosophy.
Communications – A communications degree focuses on skills like writing, speaking, and interpersonal communication.
Business Administration – A business administration degree covers business basics, including management, marketing, and finance.
Marketing – A marketing degree will provide you with a solid base in business, alongside knowledge in market research, consumer behavior, sales, public relations, and more.

What are the easiest jobs with no degrees or experience?

If you’re searching for a job that’s easy on the stress but pays well, you’re not alone.

Here are a couple of options that might just be what you’re looking for:

Proofreader – Focusing on specialized fields like medical or technical documents can allow you to charge higher rates. 
Rideshare Driver – Drive for companies like Uber with just a car and a clean record. Earnings rise during peak hours and with tips.
Personal Shopper – Companies like Instacart pay you to grocery shop for others. No degree needed, just good customer service and a car.

These jobs offer flexibility and the chance to be your own boss. They’re great options if you’re looking for an easier path to a well-paying job.

Could I make $100K a year with no degree?

You might be surprised that making $100K a year without a degree is doable. Here are some careers where you could potentially hit that $100K mark without a college major:

Blogging – Some bloggers rake in over $100K a year by creating engaging content and leveraging affiliate marketing.
Freelance Writer – Specializes in high-demand niches like tech, finance, or creative writing. 
YouTuber – This role involves creating engaging videos and uploading them on YouTube, where you can earn thousands of ad revenue and views.

Each career has challenges and requirements, but with commitment and hard work, reaching that $100K goal without a degree is possible.

Final Thoughts 

We’ve explored 21 easy degrees that pay well, showing that a fulfilling career doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag or years of grueling study that drive you crazy.

By looking at your interests and aptitudes, you can find degrees that pay well and align with your strengths, leading to a well-paying job.

Whether you’re passionate about business, creative arts, or scientific research, there’s an easy degree that can lead you to careers that interest you and pay $1000+ per month.

Take the first step towards a rewarding career today, and invest in a college education that not only suits your interests but also opens up a world of opportunities.