Easy Degrees That Make Money

Most young people are raised with the notion that a quality education will provide them with the best opportunities and career options in life. Besides choosing a career that they will truly enjoy working in, a lucrative salary is primarily the main concern. As money is a great motivator, a career choice is a major life decision; therefore, education, employment, and pay often go hand in hand.

As a person's education will have a major impact on his or her career opportunities and choices, it is very important to consider the options as soon as possible. Often in high school, students are expected to choose the "university" path or the "technical" path. Whichever is chosen, rest assured, many exceptional degrees can be earned through online distance education learning.

Online education opens up new avenues of job possibilities by making needed training and education much more accessible and manageable for those who can't undertake or don't desire a brick and mortar college experience. In addition, if an experienced professional who is established in life and family responsibilities is interested in changing careers or would like to apply for a career promotion, finishing their degree through an online program is a great idea!

What degrees can you get online? Most trade and degree programs, from bachelor's and master's to doctoral degrees, can be undertaken online! The diplomas, certifications and degrees that can be achieved online range from accounting to zoology and everything else in between.

Of course, there will be differences in the number of hours spent online and in brick-and-mortar classrooms between these programs. There are 100% online programs where students interact with their teachers, among other activities, exclusively through online means. There are also hybrid and blended programs that allow students to enjoy the best of both online and brick-and-mortar experiences.

And then there's the person-specific question, "What degree can I get online?" Well, your answer will also be determined by the factors that also influence your decision when choosing a degree in a brick-and-mortar institution! You have to consider your personal aspirations, commitment toward the field of study, and budget constraints, among others.
You may also ask, "What degrees I can get online that will not burn a hole in my pocket yet open doors of opportunities for high-paying jobs?" The prospect of low investment, high rewards is, indeed, always attractive!

In this article, we list some of the best online degrees that will ultimately provide you with the best paycheck. They are based on data used from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which provides information on high-paying jobs for which online education is available.

Recommended Schools

Engineering Management

(Median Salary: $149,530)

If you're good at analyzing and solving problems, get along with people, are organized, like math and have experience and education in engineering and architecture, a degree in engineering management opens doors to incredibly high salary potential.

Although not an out of the box degree, and normally requires a BS in architecture and/or engineering along with experience in the field, a degree in engineering management likely has the highest return in the field of online education.

Education in engineering management can be pursued entirely online, making it perhaps the highest paying job one can obtain through online education. Although high paying, engineering management is a relatively small field whose growth is about as fast as average (3%).

But we still consider engineering management as among the best online degrees to pursue because of its high demand in architectural, engineering and construction industries as well as in the scientific research and development industries. You will find plenty of job opportunities across several industries that, in turn, will open up your professional horizons.

Online Education Opportunities:

Arizona State University: BSE

Grantham University: BS-EMT

Grantham University: AA-EMT

Johns Hopkins University: Master of Engineering Management

Penn State: Master of Engineering Management

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Computer and Information Systems Manager

(Median Salary: $151,150)

With computers becoming a huge part of our everyday life, many careers are available in this field at all levels. A degree in Computer and Information Systems Management, sometimes overlapping with information technology (IT), will put you in a position to earn a great salary.

These are degrees you can get online exclusively, too, perhaps even work on a telecommuting basis. Just think of the possibilities that a CISM or IT degree can open up, from being IT security managers to being chief information officers or chief technology officers.

In this position, you will be responsible for an organization's computer-related transactions and activities. They provide knowledge needed to help run computer systems efficiently and productively to meet the everyday demands of a company, as well as its financial goals.

Generally, you will need, at the very least, a bachelor's degree in a computer-related program. If a management position is desired, you may want to consider earning a graduate degree, as well.

With a 10% growth rate anticipated between now and 2029, landing a position is very likely and profitable.

Online Education Opportunities:

Everest University: BS

Rasmussen College: BS

Oregon State University: BS

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Petroleum Engineering

(Median Salary: $137,330)

Oil is the basis for commerce and transport worldwide. As such, anything to do with the oil industry including petroleum engineering are online degrees that pay well.

Petroleum engineers think of ways to access and extract oil and gas from stores beneath the surface of the earth. Petroleum engineers also devise methods to make old wells more efficient and productive. Petroleum engineers must be prepared to travel and spend large amounts of time on site.

To become a petroleum engineer, you must obtain a bachelor's degree in the field of engineering, preferably a degree specific to petroleum engineering; however, other degrees, such as in civil, mechanical, or chemical engineering may be permissible. In addition, apprenticeship experience or cooperative program participation is preferred. Occasionally, a graduate degree is required for management positions.

The field of petroleum engineering is very lucrative and is predicted to grow 3% in the next 10 years.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of North Dakota: BS

Texas A & M University: MS and Graduate Certificate

University of Southern California: MS

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Advertising, Promotions and Marketing Management

(Median Salary: $141,490)

Marketing is a large field with a broad pay scale, not to mention that it's among the best degrees to get online because of the challenging yet exciting curriculum and learning experiences. Marketing agents and analysts tend to earn $46,000-$60,000 per year. Sales managers jump to $100,000 per year on average. Marketing management is at the top with an average salary of over $120,000 per year; all depending on education and experience, of course.

Marketing requires creativity and organization along with a good knowledge of what would be attractive to potential consumers. Entry level positions require only a bachelor's degree in the field of marketing, or if a management position is desired, you may be required to have a bachelor's degree in journalism or advertising.

Marketing management is predicted to expand 6% between now and 2029, due to the increased need for professionals who know how to appeal to a company's target consumer.

Online Education Opportunities:

Colorado State University: BS

New England College of Business: BSBA

Western Governors University: BS Marketing Management

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Financial Management

(Median Salary: $134,180)

Financial management is on our list of the best online degree programs because of the wide range of employment opportunities available for graduates. While banks, insurance companies and investment firms are the most common employers, there are many companies in need of financial managers, too. Think of retail chains, manufacturing companies and service corporations – any company that handles cash and other assets will need them one way or another.

Financial managers are responsible for the financial well-being of the company they work for. They develop reports and strategize about investments and long-term objectives. Financial managers are found in all types of business settings, such as small businesses to large conglomerates, banks and financial institutions, as well as non-profit organizations.

To become a financial manager, you will need a bachelor's degree. There are several routes to go to obtain your position. You can earn an online degree in accounting, economics, finance, or business administration. Typically, five years of work experience in finance may be required for a management position.

Financial management is expected to grow at a 15% rate over the next decade.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of California Berkeley

Cornell University

University of California Los Angeles

Boston University

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Human Resources Management

(Median Salary: $121,220)

Yet another of the best online degrees to get is in human resources mainly because every company, big and small, has to hire humans as employees. Human resource management graduates will then fine an abundance of job opportunities in all industries! The trick here is in choosing the right specialization for your personality and professional goals.

Human resource management requires skills in planning and directing the overall administration of an organization. Hiring and recruiting, mediating between employees and management are included in the job description. A human resource manager must be both a strategist and a skilled diplomat.

Normally, experience in the field is a prerequisite, and often only a bachelor's degree is needed in the area of human resources or business management. A degree in psychology is also most helpful. In some positions, a graduate degree may be required. There are many applicable certifications available in this field, too, that will assist with promotions and salary increases.

In this competitive field of employment, human resources management graduates can anticipate a 6% expansion in the next ten years.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of Phoenix

Tulane University

Capella University

Southern New Hampshire University

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Database Administrator

(Median Salary: $98,860)

Database administration is among the top online degrees at the graduate level in our books. Not only will it open more doors of opportunities for viable employment but it will also open your eyes to the possibilities of computers. It's also among the few programs you can do online on a 100% basis, a convenience that will allow for self-paced learning while you earn from a current job.

Database administration is a part of the growing field of internet technology and security. Normally requiring a background in computer science or information technology, database administrators see to the storing and organization of financial information and customer data, making such information accessible to clients and secure from potential thieves.

Typically, a bachelor's degree is required to become a database administrator; however, large organizations often require a master's degree in database management in the fields of information technology, computer science, or information systems. In addition, certifications are often required in the type of equipment they are using.

Database administration is projected to grow by 10% in the next decade. In this expanding field, one can earn a high salary and have a stable position.

Online Education Opportunities:

Colorado State University: BS

Walden University: BS

Capella University: BS Information Technology (Minor Database Admin.)

Liberty University: BS

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Operations Research Analyst

(Median Salary: $86,200)

An operations research analyst uses math and logic to help organizations identify, analyze and solve problems. Expect to work in an office in this career. Although on-site inspections are not uncommon as well.

A career in operations research analysis requires a good deal of mathematical education. Although a bachelor's degree for an entry-level position may be all you need, employers normally require a master's degree or Ph.D. Of course, master's and doctoral degree programs have extremely rigorous curricula but since these are among the highest paying online degrees, you'd likely finish them. Undergraduate degrees will normally be in mathematics, engineering, management science or a related field.

Predicted to grow at an explosive rate of 25% in the next ten years, a career in operations research analysis would provide both high wages and job security.

Online Education Opportunities:

Columbia University: MS Operations Research

University of Southern California: MS

Kansas State University: MS

Colorado State University: MS

Florida Institute of Technology: MS

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Network and Computer Systems Administrator

(Median Salary: $84,810)

Network and computer systems administrators work in a variety of organizations overseeing computer networks and daily operations. With the increasing diversification of technology along with the proliferation of mobile networks, network and computer systems administration will likely continue to prosper and remain a stable and well-paying occupation.

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in computer science or some related information science field. Some, however, expect only post-secondary certification but these are among the highest paying certificate programs in the country; people who dismiss them as being "just certifications" won't benefit from their high employment value. In addition, certifications pertaining to the equipment you are using will be helpful, as well as required.

Expected to grow 4% in the next decade, network and computer systems administration will keep pace with the overall occupational growth during the same period.

Online Education Opportunities:

Western Governors University: BS Information Technology

Dakota State University: BS Computer Information Systems

American National University: BS Network Administration

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Logistician

(Median Salary: $76,270)

Getting products from production to potential buyers is essential for a business's economic success. Logisticians manage the entire process of product acquisition, distribution, and delivery. They work in nearly every industry. Their work is very fast-paced, high demand and considered high stress.

A bachelor's degree is the most common requirement. The best online college degrees to become a logistician include business administration and management preferably with a concentration in supply chain management, industrial engineering, and process engineering. However, an associate degree can be sufficient for certain entry-level positions. Certifications are often required; and in some instances, previous related work experience may be suitably recognized as a substitute for a college degree in the field.

Demand for Logisticians is predicted to increase, albeit at a slower than average pace over the next decade at 4%.

Online Education Opportunities:

Arizona State University: BA

Southern New Hampshire University: BS

American Military University: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees as well as Graduate Certificate

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Budget Analyst

(Median Salary: $78,970)

The budget analyst is tasked with preparing financial reports for institutions, as well as overseeing the spending. They focus on budgeting, accuracy, and estimate future expenditures and investments.

Budget analysts normally hold a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, such as in economics, political science, finance, business administrations, or statistics, all of which are degrees you can earn online. Several online graduate and certificate programs offer those already in the field ways to advance to a position as a budget analyst. Continued education and certifications are recommended.

Because of its slower than average predicted growth rate over the next decade (3%), budget analysis presents a relatively small and competitive field. However, if one lands a job, the high salary provides attractive compensation.

Online Education Opportunities:

Penn State: Graduate Certificate

Georgetown University: Certificate

North Central University: MBA

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Financial Services Agent

(Median Salary: $64,770)

Financial services agents create relationships between various sectors of the financial world. They give advice on investing and trading. The field of financial services is considered high stress, and normally entails a work week of over 40 hours.

A bachelor's degree is required for most entry-level opportunities; most of the best are completely online degrees, too, such as finance, accounting and economics. However, if you would like to receive a promotion to a supervisory or managerial position, a master's in business administration degree is helpful for advancement. Licensing may be required according to your state.

This field of financial services is predicted to grow 4% between 2019 and 2029, which is as fast as average. However, sharpen your skills because competition can be fierce.

Online Education Opportunities:

Florida State College (Jacksonville): BS

Boston University: Master's Degree

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Technical Writing

(Median Salary: $74,650)

Technical writers compose manuals, how-to guides, articles, and other literature intended to communicate technical information. Other forms of media are also used to disseminate such information. Technical writers work in a variety of contexts but are most prevalent in industry, computer technology and engineering.

A bachelor's degree in English or communications is preferred and often required to become a technical writer. In addition, depending on your topic of writing, a knowledge related to the technical field will be required, such as needed in medicine, engineering, or computer science, for example. On-the-job training in a particular field is most always required. Professional credentials and certifications are helpful to secure a position.

In fact, technical writing is among the online certificate programs that pay well even when being a technical writer isn't in your agenda. Take note that technical writing skills can be applied in numerous industries, from education to manufacturing.

Technical writing is a fast-growing field, expected to expand 7% over the next ten years, primarily due to the popularity of the World Wide Web.

Online Education Opportunities:

Arizona State University: BS

University of California Berkeley: Post Bachelor's Certificate

University of Wisconsin Eau Claire: Certificate

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Emergency Management Direction

(Median Salary: $76,250)

Emergency management oversees the planning and directives for responding to the many forms in which emergencies and disasters can occur. Often emergency management directors work in close conjunction with private and public agencies. Such are most often employed in government, but emergency management directors also work for private enterprises.

Emergency managers often have several years of work experience in the field. To enter the field of management, you will need a bachelor's degree in the field of emergency management, public health, information technology, or a business-related degree. (These are also among the best degrees to make money because of their high demand in and out of the health industry) Many certifications are available; either voluntarily or may be required.

Emergency Management offers a high salary, and its rate of growth over the next 10 years is average at 4%; however, depending on the state, government constraints may limit career availability.

Online Education Opportunities:

Georgetown University: Master's Degree

Arizona State University: MA

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Accounting/Auditing

(Median Salary: $73,560)

Accountants and auditors see to the accuracy of financial records. They also ensure that taxes are paid and assess the financial workings of organizations. A main function of accountants is to help make sure financial operations are in order.

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in accounting, among the great online degrees because of the high demand for accountants and auditors in nearly all industries. As long as there are assets and liabilities involved, they will be in demand! Additional certification can be earned, and many accountants become CPAs. A 4% growth in the field of accounting and auditing is expected by 2029.

Online Education Opportunities:

Southern New Hampshire University: AS, BS, MS

University of Phoenix: BS

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Insurance Underwriter

(Median Salary: $71,790)

Insurance underwriters evaluate insurance applications in order to determine whether to offer coverage as well as the terms of insurance coverage. This includes the cost of premiums and the amount of coverage. Because of better underwriting software, fewer underwriters are needed than in the past. This has resulted in a sharp decline in the number of insurance underwriters. Over the next ten years, a 6% decline is predicted.

A bachelor's degree is commonly expected. Many of the suitable degrees to become an insurance underwriter are strictly online degrees, such as business administration, economics and math. Experience and skill sometimes are enough, however.

Online Education Opportunities:

Loma: Certificate

The Institute: Associate's Underwriting

Insurance Educational Association: Associate's Underwriting

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Multimedia Art and Animation

(Median Salary: $76,560)

This field is split almost down the middle in terms of those self-employed and working for an organization. Multimedia artists and animators create animated visuals for television, games, movies and other similar modes of communication and entertainment.

A highly skilled occupation, employers require a bachelor's degree as well as a strong art portfolio and computer skills. Many of the degrees that can lead to a career as a multimedia artist and animator are among the easy degrees that pay well, such as fine arts and computer graphics. Of course, the concept of easy is relative but if you have artistic talent to begin with, the classes become easier. This job is also among the few of 100% online jobs with bachelor's degree requirements – you can work from home as a multimedia artist and animator and communicate via emails, chats and videocalls.

A 4% expansion in the field is expected over the next decade.

Online Education Opportunities:

Art Institute of Pittsburgh: BS

Full Sail University: Bachelor's Degree

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Loan Officer

(Median Salary: $63,960)

Loan officers are often employed by banks and other credit institutions. Most work is carried out in an office setting, evaluating, approving or recommending loan applications. In the next decade, a 3% increase in the field is expected.

Most commonly a bachelor's degree is required along with the on the job training. Loan officers must also be licensed.

Online Education Opportunities:

Proschools Oncourse Learning: Mortgage Lending

Allied Schools: Mortgage Loan Originator

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Market Research Analysis

(Median Salary: $65,810)

We mentioned earlier that a marketing degree is among the degrees that pay well. If you want to take it a step further, you may want to consider specializing in market research analysis. You will not only enjoy a challenging career but get more money out of it.

If you possess a bachelor's degree along with strong mathematical and analytical skills a career in market research analysis may be the way to advance your career and improve your financial status. Market research analysts look at sales potential and demand and advise companies about products consumers will likely purchase. Because time is money, analysts work according to rigid deadlines and tight schedules in virtually every area of the economy.

A bachelor's degree is a basic prerequisite. Advanced degrees and/or certification may also be required. The field of market research analysis is predicted to grow 18% over the next decade: a rate much faster than average.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of Georgia: Certificate Course

Cornell University: Certificate Course

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Cartography

(Median Salary: $68,380)

Cartographers gather, collate, and analyze geographical information in order to update and produce new maps for a variety of purposes. These include government, military, business, and educational needs. This field is growing at an expected rate of 4% increase in the next ten years. Cartographers work both in the office and on-site.

A bachelor's degree in cartography or a related field is required. There are not many online undergraduate avenues currently open. However, master's degrees in the field, which are quick degrees in the sense that these can finished in less than two years, can be earned online.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of Florida, School of Forest Resources & Conservation: MS

Penn State: MS

Recommended Schools

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Conservation Scientist and Forester

(Median Salary: $64,010)

If you love the outdoors and care about maintaining and encouraging the well-being of forests, parks, rangelands, and other similar areas, a job as a conservation scientist and/or forester may be for you. Foresters work for both private and government agencies. Although experiencing only an average rate of growth of 5%, conservation science, and forestry is a stable career choice because of the increasing demand for forest products in balance with environmental concerns.

Entry-level positions require a bachelor's degree in forestry or environmental studies or their equivalents. A wide variety of online programs are available, making environmental science and forestry attainable for most any lifestyle.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of Florida, School of Forest Resources & Conservation: MA and Certificate

Arizona State University: BA Sustainability

University of Maryland, University College: Bachelor's Environmental Management

Oregon State University: B.S. Environmental Science

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Purchasing Agent

(Median Salary: $72,270)

Buyers and purchasing agents oversee the buying of products that organizations intend to use or resell. Purchasers must be able to critically evaluate a wide variety of competing suppliers and product quality as well as skillfully negotiate contracts with third parties.

Purchasing is an occupation experiencing a decline in growth by 7%. Many times a high school diploma is sufficient. Often, however, a bachelor's degree and/or on the job training is required. Several online training courses are available.

Online Education Opportunities:

American Purchasing Society: Certification and Professional Development

California State University Dominguez Hills: Certificate

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Labor Relations

(Median Salary: $73,240)

Labor relations specialists oversee the interpretation and application of labor contracts. They see to wages, salaries, pensions, and relations between union and management. The field is predicted to decline by 7% in the next ten years. However, the salary is quite attractive, and one can acquire the needed education online.

A bachelor's degree is required either in labor relations or a related field of study. Level of required education varies from employer to employer.

Online Education Opportunities:

Penn State University: BA

Thomas Edison University: BA

Rutgers University: BS

Cornell University: Certificate and Advanced Certificate Courses

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Training and Development Specialist

(Median Salary: $ 62,700

An ability to see potential and opportunity and educate employees and advance their work skills are the necessary talents of the training and development specialist. These specialists work in virtually every field, giving presentations and leading training sessions. This field is growing at a rate of 7%.

A bachelor's degree is a normal requirement. Work experience and additional certification are also needed to secure a job in the field. Many online programs offer certification as well as master's degrees in training and development.

Online Education Opportunities:

Willmington University

Portland State University

Colorado State University

Roosevelt University: Master's Degree

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Arbitration, Mediation and Conciliation

(Median Salary: $66,130)

Arbitrators must be skillful negotiators and possess an ability to foster and maintain dialogue between disputants, helpful to achieving an equitable resolution. Their role is to prevent disputes from reaching the court systems, thus playing an important cost-saving role. Arbitrators work for state and local governments as well as for private legal agencies.

An 8% expansion of the field is expected by 2029, making arbitration and mediation both a lucrative and active profession. There are no specific degree requirements. Needed skills can be gained through online education.

Online Education Opportunities:

FINRA: Arbitration Training

American University: Graduate Certificate

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Dietitian and Nutritionist

(Median Salary: $63,090)

Growing at a speedy rate of 8% over the next decade, demand for dietitians and nutritionists will continue to increase as preventative medicine becomes more emphasized. Dietitians and nutritionists specialize in the use of food and nutrition and devise programs ordered to the maintenance and/or recovery of good health. They are employed in a variety of contexts, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and cafeterias, and are often employed by the state or local government.

Often a bachelor's degree and field-specific training are required. Many states also require dietitians and nutritionists be licensed.

Online Education Opportunities:

Huntington College of Health Sciences: Multiple Degrees

Liberty University: Master's of Public Health and Nutrition

Arizona State University: Multiple Degrees

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Special Education Teacher

(Median Salary: $61,420)

Special education teachers must be flexible and adaptable, able to respond to students with a wide variety of needs and/or disabilities. They must also be competent teachers able to tailor lessons and communicate with students with varying degrees of ability.

This field is expanding at a rate of 3%. Most teachers in this fieldwork in schools. Some work 10 months, while others work 12. Special education teachers in public schools are required to possess a bachelor's degree along with state-issued certification. Private schools may not require such certification.

Online Education Opportunities:

Southern New Hampshire University: BA

Liberty University: BS

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Editor

(Median Salary: $63,400)

Editors oversee and direct content that is to be published. Often editors work in the office. However, more and more, editing is done remotely from home offices. Editing is considered a high-stress occupation wherein editors almost always work under strict deadlines.

A bachelor's degree in journalism or a similar field is commonly required. Unfortunately, editing will become a more competitive field because the field is slated to decline 7% by 2029.

Online Education Opportunities:

Arizona State University: Bachelor's Degree Journalism

Full Sail University: BA

University of Massachusetts: Certificate

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Public Relations Specialist

(Median Salary: $62,810)

It's all about image for Public Relations Specialists. These experts seek to shape a positive public perception of their organization through media. Public Relations Specialists also attempt to spread public awareness of the organizations they represent. Moderate growth is expected during the next 10 years (7%).

Normally, a bachelor's degree in public relations or a closely related field is required.

Online Education Opportunities:

Penn State University: BA

Southern New Hampshire University: BA

Walden University: BS Communications

Full Sail University: Bachelor's Degree Media Communications

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Film and Video Editing and Camera Operation

(Median Salary: $61,900)

With more and more news and entertainment media being captured and presented on video, demand for film and video editing and camera operators is growing. It is predicted that the industry will grow by 18% over the next decade. Editors normally work in a studio, or an office, and camera operators are in the field capturing footage.

A bachelor's degree is a common entry level requirement.

Online Education Opportunities:

Full Sail University

Grand Canyon University: BA

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Career and Technical Educator

(Median Salary: $59,140)

Young people need sound advice and direction when it comes to pursuing employment. Career and technical educationalists seek to inform students about technical and vocational opportunities. They not only expose them to various fields such as healthcare, auto repair, and food preparation, they also give basic instruction in these fields.

Career and technical educators work in a wide variety of educational contexts. These include middle school, high school, community college as well as business and trade schools.

A bachelor's degree is required along with work experience. Public school educators also need a state license. Growth in career and technical education is slower than average (2%).

Online Education Opportunities:

University of Central Florida: BS and MA

University of Wisconsin Stout: BS

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Medical Laboratory Technologist or Technician

(Median Salary: $54,180)

Laboratory medical technologists and technicians collect and analyze samples for the sake of medical diagnosis. Medical technologists usually possess a bachelor's degree, and technicians, an associate's degree or certification; with such well-paying jobs, a medical technician program is among the few online associates degrees that pay well. Most employed in this field work in a hospital or laboratory setting.

This field is anticipated to grow 7% by 2029 due to increasing population and aging population.

Online Education Opportunities:

Weber State University: AAS and BS

University of Cincinatti: BS

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Interior Design

(Median Salary: $57,060)

Have an aesthetic eye for interior space and creativity for beauty, functionality, and safety? A career in interior design can be launched through online education. Interior designers help ensure interior spaces are safe and attractive. They read blueprints and interpret and apply building codes and regulations. A quarter of interior designers are self-employed and the rest most often work for engineering and architectural agencies.

A bachelor's degree in a field related to interior design is normally required. Several online programs are available. Unfortunately, the overall rate of growth predicted during the next decade is only 5%, less than the average 7% growth predicted for all fields.

Online Education Opportunities:

The Interior Design Institute

Penn Foster College: Associate's Degree

Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design: Bachelor of Fine Arts

New York School of Interior Design: Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees

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Meeting and Event Planning

(Median Salary: $51,560)

At an anticipated growth of 8% over the next ten years, meeting and event planning is full of opportunity. Event Planners see to all the practical details of professional meetings, conventions, parties and the like. They arrange the venue, food, transportation, and accommodation, working in a variety of settings.

Normally, a bachelor's degree is required as well as work experience. Online degree and certificate programs are available. Event planning programs are online certifications that pay well for their graduates because of the numerous ways that the knowledge and skills learned can be applied. Think not just of birthday, anniversary and wedding parties but also of campaigns, concerts and other large gatherings.

Online Education Opportunities:

Ashworth College: Diploma Program

New York Institute of Art and Design: Event Planning Course

International Institute of Event Management: Certificate Programs

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Social Work

(Median Salary: $51,760)

Interest in the lives of people and an ability to understand and sympathize and seek how to help them cope with their problems are marks of someone who would likely be suited for a career in social work. Social work covers a wide range of life issues from family life, child care and development to mental, behavioral and emotional concerns. Social workers assist people in a wide variety of work environments. These include, among others, private practices, hospitals, state and private agencies, community development and settlement houses.

A career in social work normally requires a bachelor's degree. Certain areas of clinical social work also require a master's degree, work experience, and state licensing. At a growth rate of 13%, social work jobs are increasing, making finding a job in the field more likely.

Online Education Opportunities:

Indiana Wesleyan University: BSW

Brescia University: BSW

University of Southern California: MSW

Arizona State University: MSW

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Recreational Therapy

(Median Salary: $47,710)

Recreational therapists facilitate recreation for those with disabilities, injury or illness. They employ a wide variety of activities, including arts, crafts, sports, music, drama, outings, among many others, in order to improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Employment opportunities in recreational therapy are predicted to expand by 8% by 2029. Normally, a bachelor's degree and additional certification are required, the latter of which are short term courses with high salary due to the possibility of promotions.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of Wisconsin: Certificate Program

SUNY Cortland: Graduate Certificate

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Preschool and Childcare Director

(Median Salary: $49,160)

Preschool and Childcare direction is a multifaceted career that requires a love of and interest in children and their development as well as organizational and managerial skills and knowledge of curriculums. Preschool and childcare directors oversee staffs, activities, finances and curriculum. Childcare center direction is normally full time and onsite.

A bachelor's degree is a common requirement, and some states and childcare centers require additional certification. The field of preschool and childcare direction is predicted to grow by only 1% by 2029.

Online Education Opportunities:

Colorado State University: BS Human Services

Southern New Hampshire: BA Psychology: Childhood and Adolescent Development

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Athletic Trainers

(Median Salary: $49,860)

Culture is growing ever more aware of the need to encourage good health through fitness. Athletic trainers interface with preventative, diagnostic, improvement and remedial fitness health care, assisting their clients to achieve a higher quality of life through bodily integrity and strength.

The majority of trainers work in a hospital, educational, and/or athletic contexts. In addition to a bachelor's degree, most states require additional licensing or certification. Athletic training jobs are predicted to increase by 16% by 2029, making it one of the fastest-growing fields of employment. And, with an average salary of nearly $50,000, athletic trainers are well compensated.

Online Education Opportunities:

University of St. Augustine: MHS Athletic Training

Fresno Pacific University: MA Athletic Training

University of South Florida: MS Advanced Athletic Training

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Health Education and Community Health

(Median Salary: $49,860)

Growing at a faster than average rate of 16%, health educators seek to promote wellness in the community by teaching proper diet and lifestyle practices. They also collate wellness data within the communities they serve in order to pinpoint and address ways in which existing practices can be improved to promote greater overall health. Healthcare educators work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, doctor's offices, schools, non-profits and private businesses. Healthcare education is rapidly expanding as communities and healthcare providers and insurers seek to address the increasing strain of rising demand for care and rising costs.

Healthcare educators are minimally required to possess certification, but a college education is often preferable in addition to certification.

Online Education Opportunities:

Walden University: Certificate, Bachelor's and Master's Degree Programs

Southern New Hampshire University: BS Community Health Education

East Carolina University: MA Health Education

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Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counseling

(Median Salary : $47,660 )

Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling treat a wide range of behaviors, including alcoholism, drug addictions, eating disorders and other behavior problems. Counselors provide advice and treatments that aim to empower and realize recovery from addiction. Work settings vary widely. Some counselors work in private agencies and private practice. Others work in prisons and community mental health centers.

Most jobs require a bachelor's degree. Sometimes a master's degree is also needed. Less often only a high-school diploma is mandatory. The field of substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling is expected to expand over the next ten years at 25%, a much faster than average rate.

Online Education Opportunities:

Aspen University: BA

Indiana Wesleyan University: BS

Liberty University: BS

University of Massachusetts: BA, MS

Was your interest piqued by the possibilities that come with an online degree? Take a look at the list of online degrees that will suit your personal and professional goals and get started on a fulfilling journey!