When you hear people ask, "What degree is the easiest to get?" they’re usually looking for a path that balances short time‑to‑completion, low tuition, and minimal entry hurdles. Below we break down the most accessible options, why online formats matter, and how to pick a program that won’t waste your time or money.
Defining the Easiest degree is a credential that typically requires the fewest credit hours, the lowest tuition, and the least stringent admission standards
We’ll judge “easy” by four practical factors:
- Typical program length (months or years)
- Total credit hour requirement
- Admission criteria (GPA, test scores, prerequisites)
- Average tuition cost for fully online study
Using these metrics keeps the discussion concrete instead of vague.
Why Online Delivery Makes a Degree Easier
Online learning removes commuting, offers flexible schedules, and often lets you accelerate by taking multiple terms at once. Many schools also provide credit‑by‑exam options that let you bypass courses you already know.
For example, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) lets you earn up to 30 credit hours by passing a single exam, shaving months off a typical associate degree.
Top Candidates for the Easiest Degree
Below is a quick look at the most common credentials that fit our criteria.
| Program | Typical Duration | Credit Hours | Admission Criteria | Average Tuition (USD) | Job Outlook (US Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate degree | 12‑18 months (full‑time) | 60 | High school diploma or GED; GPA ≥ 2.5 (often waived) | $4,800 - $9,600 | 5 % growth, entry‑level roles pay $30‑$45k |
| Certificate (e.g., IT Support) | 4‑6 months | 15‑30 | No formal prerequisites; test may be required | $1,200 - $3,500 | 8 % growth, median pay $45k |
| Bachelor of Arts (General Studies) | 2‑3 years (accelerated) | 90‑120 (with credit‑by‑exam) | High school diploma; GPA ≥ 2.0 | $9,000 - $15,000 | 6 % growth, broader job options |
From the table you can see that a traditional Associate degree remains the most balanced choice-short enough, affordable, and recognized by most employers.
Deep Dive: The Associate Degree
Associate degrees come in two flavors: Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS). Both require about 60 credit hours, but AS programs often focus on technical subjects, while AA leans toward liberal arts.
Key attributes:
- Delivery: Fully online options are offered by Community colleges across the U.S. and many international schools.
- Accreditation: Look for regional accreditation (e.g., Middle States, New England) to ensure credits transfer.
- Credit‑by‑exam: CLEP, DSST, or departmental exams can shave up to 30 credits.
Because the admission bar is low, many students with a GED, a low‑GPA, or even a busy work schedule can enroll.
Certificates: The Quickest Path
If you’re after something even faster, a professional certificate (often called a micro‑credential) can be earned in a few months. Fields like IT support, digital marketing, and bookkeeping have well‑structured online certificates that require as few as 15 credit hours.
Certificates have a narrow focus, so they’re great for up‑skilling or shifting careers without committing to a full degree.
Fast‑Track Bachelor’s Options
Some universities market “accelerated bachelor’s” that let you complete a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in as little as two years if you bring in prior learning credits.
These programs typically demand:
- High school diploma (or equivalent)
- Minimum GPA of 2.0-2.5
- Ability to handle a heavier workload-often 15‑18 credit hours per term
The upside is a full bachelor’s title, which opens more doors than an associate, but the speed comes at the cost of higher tuition and a tighter schedule.
How to Pick the Right Easy Degree for You
Follow this checklist before you enroll:
- Confirm the program’s Accreditation. Regional accreditation guarantees that employers and other schools recognize the credential.
- Calculate total cost, including any hidden fees (technology, proctoring, textbooks).
- Check for credit‑by‑exam options that match your existing knowledge.
- Review the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your career goals.
- Read student reviews and graduation rates; low drop‑out rates often signal good support.
Doing this homework saves you from ending up in a program that looks easy on paper but turns out to be a dead end.
Real‑World Examples
Case 1 - Maria, 28, Dublin: Wanted a fast path into UX design. She enrolled in an online Certificate in User Experience at a UK university. The 20‑credit program took 5 months, cost €2,200, and landed her a junior UX role within three weeks of graduating.
Case 2 - Jamal, 35, Ohio: Needed a credential to qualify for a supervisory job in manufacturing. He completed a fully online Associate of Applied Science in Production Management in 14 months, using CLEP exams to cut 12 credits. Tuition was $6,800, and his new title secured a $58k salary.
Both stories show that the “easiest” degree isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all-it depends on your background, goals, and willingness to leverage online tools.
Next Steps: Enrolling in Your Chosen Program
Ready to take action? Here’s a short roadmap:
- Identify three accredited schools offering the program you want.
- Request a detailed cost breakdown and confirm credit‑by‑exam policies.
- Gather required documents (high‑school transcript, ID, residency proof).
- Submit the online application and pay any enrollment fee.
- Enroll in the first term, set a study schedule, and start with any pre‑assessment exams.
Stick to the schedule, take advantage of tutoring or discussion boards, and you’ll be on the fast track to that credential.
Is an associate degree worth it if I just want a quick credential?
Yes. An associate degree provides a nationally recognized credential, often opens entry‑level jobs, and can be transferred toward a bachelor’s if you change your mind later.
Can I complete an associate degree entirely online?
Most community colleges now offer fully online associate programs. Look for schools with regional accreditation and a robust virtual campus.
How much time does a certificate usually take?
Certificates range from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the subject and whether you study part‑time or full‑time.
Are credit‑by‑exam options reliable?
They’re widely accepted by accredited schools. CLEP and DSST scores can replace up to a third of the required credits, saving both time and money.
What jobs can I get with an easy online degree?
Common entry‑level roles include administrative assistant, IT support specialist, medical billing coder, and retail manager. Salaries typically start around $30k-$45k.
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