The fastest high-paying degrees are 1-year certifications and accelerated programs in tech, healthcare, and skilled trades, with salaries ranging from $60K to $120K. Fields like cybersecurity, cloud computing, and nursing offer the best return on time investment.
What Is the Easiest Certification to Get That Pays Well?
These low-effort, high-reward certifications can be completed in under 6 months and lead to $50K+ salaries:
- Google IT Support Certificate (Coursera) → $50K+
- CompTIA A+ (IT Fundamentals) → $55K+
- Certified Medical Coder (AAPC) → $50K+
- QuickBooks ProAdvisor (Accounting) → $50K+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner → $70K+
Top 3 Fastest Degrees for High Pay
1. Cybersecurity Certifications (6-12 Months) – $80K-$120K
These are best for tech beginners. The fastest Path is to take the CompTIA Security+ → CISSP route (if experienced). You can do this with institutions such as SANS.edu, WGU.
2. Cloud Computing (AWS/Azure) – $90K-$150K
This one is suited for IT professionals seeking to boost their career prospects in the cloud job market. The quickest pathway for this one is taking the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner which leads to the AWS Solutions Architect. You can do this with institutions like Udacity and Coursera.
3. Accelerated Nursing (RN-to-BSN, 12-18 Months) – $70K-$100K
The accelerated nursing program is best suited for healthcare workers. Quickest path for this is the Online RN-to-BSN route offered by varsities like Capella and Walden. You can also explore other accredited nursing schools for more options.
Cheap Online Degrees with High Starting Salaries
There are many institutions that offer very lucrative degree programmes, whether through traditional brick-and-mortar campuses or modern online learning models. With a wide array of options now available, students often find it challenging to choose the right path for furthering their education.
One of the most difficult tasks is identifying a degree that combines affordability with high starting salaries after graduation. In this post, we highlight cheap online colleges that offer degree programmes leading to well-paying careers from day one.
Note: Always verify whether the degree is offered fully online and ensure it’s accredited before enrolling.
1. University of Oklahoma – Health Sciences Center
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, located near the state capitol in Oklahoma City, comprises seven specialised health education colleges. It has a strong focus on health-related disciplines, including public health, pharmacy, dentistry, allied health, and nursing.
- Average Tuition: Around $6,000
- Average Starting Salary: Approximately $50,200
More Info: www.ouhsc.edu
This institution ranks as one of the most affordable online health science colleges that also delivers strong salary prospects for graduates.
2. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Situated near Albuquerque in central New Mexico, this institute is well-regarded for its focus on engineering, sciences, and technology-based disciplines. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programmes, such as mineral engineering, petroleum engineering, mathematics, IT, and computer science.
One of the key benefits of studying here is the opportunity to gain research experience by working directly with a professor through an internship.
- Average Tuition: Around $5,496
- Average Starting Salary: Approximately $53,000
More Info: www.nmt.edu
This institution is ideal for students looking for affordable STEM degrees with strong early-career earning potential.
3. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Offering 36 award-winning programmes, this institution prides itself on its low student-to-teacher ratio and practical, career-focused education.
- Average Tuition: Around $9,360
- Average Starting Salary: Approximately $57,300
More Info: www.sdsmt.edu
With a strong reputation in engineering and applied sciences, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is a solid choice for students seeking value-for-money degrees that lead to high-paying jobs.
FAQs
Can I make 6 figures with a 1-year degree?
Yes! Cloud architects, cybersecurity analysts, and travel nurses often hit $100K+ within a year of certification.
What’s the quickest IT certification for a high salary?
AWS Cloud Practitioner (3 months, $70K+) or Google Cybersecurity Cert (6 months, $80K+).
Do employers accept 6-month certifications?
Yes! Companies like Amazon, Google, and hospitals hire certified professionals without 4-year degrees.
What’s the easiest healthcare job that pays well?
Certified Medical Coder ($50K+, 4-6 months training) or Pharmacy Technician ($40K+, 3-month cert).
The quickest path to high pay is through certifications and accelerated degrees in tech, cloud, and healthcare. For the fastest ROI, check:
- Tech: Udacity or Coursera
- Healthcare: Walden University
- Trades: Lincoln Tech
Pair a short certification with experience (internships, freelancing) to maximize earnings.
Final Thoughts
The list provided here is by no means exhaustive. Many other accredited institutions offer affordable online degrees with high career returns. Before making your final decision, make sure your chosen programme meets key criteria such as:
- Cost and financial aid options
- Field of specialisation
- Duration and delivery mode
- Accreditation and institutional credibility
Ultimately, your degree should align with your career ambitions or postgraduate goals. Once you’ve found that match, you’re well on your way to a high-earning future.