Getting an online degree can be the doorway to a lucrative career and a high-paying job. Online learning gives you flexibility with choosing a degree course when you study. Online degrees are not just limited to computer-based industries.
You can qualify for high-paying jobs in nursing, psychology, engineering, sports management, law, teaching, and market research. Of course, you can also study online to get well-paid jobs in IT, web design, and networking technology.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, online learning has become the norm rather than the exception. Universities and colleges offer associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in some of the top industries. But even before the pandemic, some of the best universities in the countries were offering online degrees.
Are you thinking about advancing your career to get a better paying job? Do you have family commitments that don’t allow you to study on campus? Or, do you want to change your career path and learn from the comfort of your home?
In this article, you will find out the ten highest-paying jobs you can get with an online degree.
Why Get an Online Degree?
Pursuing an online degree gives you the freedom to study at your own time. Also, earning a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree gives you better job prospects.
For example, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), graduates earn more than workers with high school diplomas. In 2019, the average weekly earnings for people with high school diplomas was $750. But for graduates, it was $1,250 if you have a bachelor’s degree and $1,500 if you have a master’s degree.
Apart from finding a high-paying job, there are many more benefits of getting an online degree. Here are a few:
- Online degrees are cheaper than learning on campus
- Combine learning with your current full-time job or other commitments
- Choose from a broader range of colleges and universities
- You can study from any location in the world
Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs with an Online Degree
If you want to land a job that pays top dollar, you no longer have to leave the comfort of your home. Remote learning can equip you with all the qualifications you need to earn a top-notch salary.
Here are some of the best jobs you can apply for after graduating with an online degree. Each position also comes with the average pay you can expect, according to the BLS.
1. Web Developer
One of the easiest online degrees to get is an associate’s degree in web design. Working in web development can involve designing and maintaining websites, graphic design, organizing databases, and studying scripting languages. You will also learn about internet marketing and optimizing websites so that they rank well in search engine results.
Average pay for web developers — $74,000
2. Nurse Practitioner or Registered Nurse
Working as a nurse practitioner is an excellent career choice for job security. You need to complete a graduate online Masters in Nursing degree or Doctorate of Nursing Practice. According to the BLS, jobs as nurse practitioners, midwives, or anesthetists will increase by 45 percent over the next ten years.
If you don’t already have a nursing degree, you can study for a nursing bachelor’s degree online. Many nursing degrees have been developed to allow you to learn remotely. You can then get the required clinical training at a local healthcare facility.
Average pay for nurses — $73,000
Average pay for nurse practitioners — $116,900
3. Computer Systems Analyst
With most companies conducting much of their business online, it’s no surprise that there’s a massive demand for IT technicians. A computer systems analyst collaborates with various departments to achieve company goals.
Working in this industry requires critical thinking and excellent communication skills. You need to have an online bachelor’s or master’s degree in Information Technology to work in this sector.
Average pay for computer systems analysts — $90,000
4. Paralegal or Legal Assistant
With an online associate’s degree in paralegal studies, you can work as a legal assistant in a law office. A paralegal prepares documents, files appeals, and helps manage cases for lawyers. To work as a paralegal, you should be organized and efficient with a keen eye for detail. After graduating, there is potential to further your career or choose a specialized area of law.
Average pay for paralegals — $52,000
5. Marketing Manager
Marketing managers are responsible for the growth of an organization or its products. A bachelor’s degree in marketing prepares you for knowing how to analyze market trends. Many marketing managers are involved in promotional strategies, communication, and online marketing. Some degree courses also include on-the-job training with local companies.
Average pay for marketing managers — $136,000
6. Medical and Health Services Manager
A services manager in a healthcare facility organizes the day-to-day running of a hospital, physician’s office, dental practice, or vet clinic. This top-paying job requires a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration.
After graduating from an online course, you will be responsible for most administration aspects of the facility. This includes knowing healthcare law, finances, and office management.
Average pay for medical services manager — $101,000
7. Personal Financial Advisor
You can make a difference to someone’s finances if you become a personal financial advisor. Studying for an online bachelor’s or master’s degree in finance involves learning about wealth generation. You learn how to analyze market conditions, manage financial portfolios, deal in risk management, and give sound credit advice.
Average pay for personal financial advisors — $88,000
8. Accountants and Auditors
Accountants play a vital role in making sure a business or self-employed person can track their financial activity. Online accounting degrees teach graduates about tax laws, financial management, auditing, and business strategy.
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree, it’s possible to specialize in several areas to boost your earnings. For example, you can earn even more money working as a tax accountant, forensic accountant, or company auditor.
Average pay for accountants — $72,000
9. Educator or High School Teacher
If you already have expertise in a particular field, you could use your knowledge to educate others. Becoming a teacher requires getting a bachelor’s degree and completing an internship in a local school.
To qualify as a teacher, it’s best to have an academic background in the subject. You’ll also learn about teaching techniques and classroom management. Many teachers also find work in private schools, providing online lessons.
Average pay for high school teachers — $62,000
10. Computer and Information Systems Manager
One of the highest-paying jobs you can get with a bachelor’s degree is as an information systems manager. The IT bachelor’s degree course teaches you about using technology to make a business more effective and efficient. Information systems managers have to study business ethics, network infrastructure, database management, and business processes.
Average pay for computer and information systems managers — $146,000
Get an Online Degree to Get a Top-Paying Job
It’s possible to study for an online associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in a wide range of academic subjects. Before choosing an online university, ensure that it is fully accredited. You should also make sure that there are excellent job prospects for your area of choice. The best online degrees can take your career on a new, lucrative path and help you get a high-paying job.