The highest paying online degrees include computer science, nursing (BSN or MSN), engineering, business administration (MBA), and information technology. These programs offer strong salary potential, with graduates earning $70,000 to over $120,000 annually depending on experience and specialization.
Why Online Degrees Can Lead to High-Paying Careers
Online degrees from accredited schools now match the credibility of traditional programs. Many employers accept online degrees from reputable universities, especially when paired with industry certifications or professional experience. Online education offers flexibility, allowing students to work while studying and gain real-world experience before graduation.
Students can complete an online degree in fields such as business administration, computer science, or nursing and qualify for high-paying roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roles in healthcare, tech, and business strategy often exceed $90,000 per year, especially for professionals with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Computer Science and Information Technology
Computer science is one of the highest paying online degrees. Professionals in this field develop software, manage computer systems, or lead engineering teams. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, or cybersecurity experts.
Top roles include:
- Software Developer: Median salary $107,281
- Information Security Analyst: Median salary $112,000
- IT Manager: Median salary $159,000
Many online programs include coursework in programming languages, database management, cloud computing, and software engineering principles. Schools like the University of the People and Columbia University offer remote access to computer science programs with a strong reputation.
Business Administration and Financial Management
Business administration degrees earned online prepare students for leadership roles in finance, management, and entrepreneurship. These roles typically involve overseeing budgets, improving team performance, and leading strategy development.
Popular business-focused online degrees include:
- Business administration (general management)
- Finance
- Financial planning
- Project management
Careers that follow:
- Financial Manager: $123,000
- Management Analyst: $94,000
- Chief Operating Officer: $120,000–$180,000
Courses focus on financial modeling, risk management, marketing, and business strategy. Students can also explore electives in human resources or supply chain to tailor their education to in-demand specialties.
Healthcare Administration and Nursing
Healthcare remains one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying industries, and many online programs prepare students for clinical and administrative roles. Nursing and healthcare industry leadership positions are accessible with a remote bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in nursing, public health, or healthcare administration.
Top online degrees in this category:
- RN to BSN Nursing
- Healthcare administration
- Public Health
- Health Informatics
High-paying job examples:
- Nurse Manager: $121,000
- Health Services Manager: $104,000
- Public Health Director: $96,000
These programs focus on patient care systems, quality assurance, employee training, and healthcare laws. Many online students complete clinical hours in local hospitals while attending online classes for theoretical study.
Engineering and Project Management
Online engineering management and project management programs teach students how to oversee large projects in construction, infrastructure, energy, and software. Engineers with leadership skills and a degree can advance quickly into roles with six-figure salaries.
Best online engineering fields:
- Electrical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Systems Engineering
- Construction Management
Top jobs:
- Engineering Manager: $116,000
- Construction Manager: $93,000
- Project management lead: $110,000
Online coursework covers engineering principles, design systems, risk assessment, and quality management. Schools like Florida International and University of Arizona offer fully online engineering options.
Legal Studies and Criminal Justice
Legal careers that require a degree but not law school are also available through online education. Fields like law enforcement, public policy, and compliance offer above-average salaries for those with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or legal studies.
Top online legal degrees:
- Legal Studies
- Criminal Justice
- Homeland Security
- Public Administration
Well-paid legal roles:
- Compliance Manager: $99,000
- Criminal Investigator: $92,000
- Policy Analyst: $85,000
Coursework in these online programs covers law, crisis management, forensic procedures, and risk management frameworks. Graduates often pursue government careers or roles in private legal compliance.
How to Choose the Best Online Degree for Salary Potential
Selecting the right online degree starts with identifying programs from an accredited institution that match your career goals. Salary outcomes vary based on demand in your field, experience, and the credibility of your degree program.
Key considerations:
- Accreditation status
- Industry demand (tech, healthcare, business)
- Career support and portfolio management training
- Total online bachelor’s degree cost
- Delivery method (live vs. asynchronous)
Many colleges offer accelerated programs or hybrid models for online students to complete degrees faster while maintaining a job. Always check rankings, job placement data, and alumni outcomes before enrolling.
Highest Paying Online Degrees Table
| Degree/Field | Typical Career Paths | Average/Median Salary (USD) | Notable Online Programs/Schools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marketing | Marketing Manager, Digital Marketer | $116,000–$150,000 | Coursera, University of Florida |
| Software Engineering | Software Engineer, Developer | $87,694–$117,000+ | Arizona State University |
| Applied Statistics | Data Analyst, Statistician | $97,000 | Arizona State University |
| Nursing | Nurse, Nurse Manager | $121,000 | University of Florida-Online |
| Computer Science | Software Developer, IT Manager | $87,694–$107,281 | University of the People, Columbia University |
| Engineering | Engineer, Engineering Manager | $76,000–$100,000+ | University of Arizona, Florida International |
| Finance | Financial Analyst, Manager | $93,642 | University of Alabama at Birmingham |
| Business Administration | Executive, Manager, Consultant | $77,574–$120,000+ | University of the People, Columbia University |
The Most Asked Questions
These are the questions we constantly get asks about when discussing how to find the Highest Paying Online Degrees
Can you earn a top salary with an online degree in fields like software engineering or data science if you don’t live near a major tech hub?
Yes, many high-paying tech jobs are fully remote. Employers focus on skills, portfolio quality, and experience, not your physical location. Online degrees in computer science, data science, and software development support these flexible career paths.
Are there online degrees in emerging fields like artificial intelligence or cybersecurity that offer high earning potential and are recognized by employers?
Yes. Programs in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics are increasingly offered through online colleges. Schools like Georgia Tech, WGU, and Purdue Global offer recognized programs that lead to six-figure jobs in IT and automation.
How do employers view online degrees from accredited programs compared to traditional degrees for high-paying roles?
Employers accept online degrees from accredited schools, especially in business, tech, and engineering management. What matters most is the program’s reputation, content quality, and how well you apply what you’ve learned.
Can you transition into a high-paying career with an online master’s degree in a new field, even if your undergraduate degree is unrelated?
Yes. Many master’s degree programs in business administration, information technology, or project management welcome students from unrelated fields. These degrees prepare professionals for career pivots and often include industry certifications.
Are there high-paying online degree options for those who only want to complete an associate degree, or do you need a bachelor’s or higher?
While associate degrees in web development, database development, or medical administration can lead to $50K+ jobs, six-figure salaries typically require a bachelor’s degree or graduate level education. However, starting with an associate degree and continuing to a bachelor’s online is a common path.
