Many people are skeptical about the legitimacy of an online degree. People are used to the brick-and-mortar ways of doing things, and the idea of getting a degree remotely, at your convenience, through the medium of the cyber world, makes many people averse to the idea of getting an online degree.
However, online degrees today — especially from accredited institutions like SNHU, University of the People (UoPeople), edX, and Coursera — carry the same weight as traditional degrees obtained from the same universities.
In this compact report, we share the top 3 jobs you can get with an online degree, based on career data published in the U.S. News & World Report’s 100 Best Jobs. The bottom line in pursuing any line of education is achieving your career goals and occupying your time with something productive.
1. Nurse Practitioner
The nurse practitioner job comes at the top of our list, but the job ranks number 4 out of the 100 best jobs according to the cited U.S. News report. One of the great advantages of pursuing a career in nursing practice is that you know you have a guaranteed job.
The demand for nursing professionals is on the rise, and the sector has an employment growth of around 94 percent.
Also, many employers in the health sector are becoming more inclined to give preference to degreed professionals. An online nurse practitioner degree can land you a lucrative job paying about $89,000 annually.
To qualify for this line of work, you need to complete a Master’s in Nursing or an online Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP). Reputable options include:
2. Computer Systems Analyst
The computing industry features some of the highest growth rates in terms of sector expansion. Almost every facet and dimension of modern lifestyle and business is information-driven, and this is why computing skills and expertise are in high demand. If you have a passion for technology, complemented by well-developed personal skills, then this job is for you.
In this post — Why You Should Enroll for a Computer Science Degree Today — we featured various reasons why you should consider taking up a computer science degree. One of the main reasons is that, as a computer specialist, you have very high chances of landing a good job. The median salary for this job is $79,688.
To get this job, you need an online bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. You can consider institutions such as:
3. Market Research Analyst
Every top brand and blue-chip company requires market research analysts. This job involves finding out what people like, how far they like what they like, and why they like it.
The most successful companies in the world are where they are because they invested in market research and analysis — and therefore were in a position to devise relevant products and services for their target consumers.
This makes the market research analyst one of the most lucrative jobs you can get on the merits of an online degree. The average salary for this job is $60,300.
If you are interested in this career path, consider pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in business administration, or even an MBA. Institutions you can look into include:
Degrees You Can Get Online That Pay Well
Some of the most lucrative and accessible online degrees include:
- Nursing (BSN, MSN, or DNP)
- Computer Science and IT
- Digital Marketing and Business Analytics
- Accounting or Financial Planning
- Healthcare Administration
These degrees can be pursued at fully online, accredited institutions like SNHU, University of Phoenix, Coursera, and edX, giving learners access to in-demand career fields without having to attend on-campus classes.
What Is the Highest Paying Online Degree?
In terms of average salary outcomes, online computer science, data science, and nursing degrees top the list. Graduates in these fields often command six-figure salaries, especially with experience or additional certifications.
For flexible, reputable programmes, check:
What Degree Has the Most Online Jobs?
The business, IT, and healthcare sectors dominate in terms of online job volume and remote flexibility. Degrees in business administration, project management, or healthcare management lead to roles that can often be performed fully online — making them ideal for remote work seekers.
Online Degrees and Careers FAQs
Can I get a high-paying job with an online degree?
Yes. Accredited online degrees from platforms like SNHU, UoPeople, and Coursera are widely accepted by employers in healthcare, tech, and business sectors.
How do I check if an online degree is credible?
Search the institution in the U.S. Department of Education’s database: https://ope.ed.gov/dapip – Avoid programs that don’t clearly state accreditation.
What’s the fastest degree I can earn online?
Associate degrees or accelerated bachelor’s degrees in business or IT from providers like University of Phoenix or Capella University can be completed in as little as 18–24 months.
Are online degrees good for career changers?
Absolutely. Online platforms like edX, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer short-term certificates and full degrees ideal for upskilling or switching careers.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing an online degree today can lead you to rewarding and stable career paths — often in less time and for less cost than traditional education.
Whether your interest is in nursing, technology, or market research, online learning platforms like Coursera, SNHU, edX, UoPeople, and University of Phoenix offer flexible, accredited programmes designed for real-world success. Choose the path that fits your goals — and start building the career you want, from wherever you are.