15 Highest Paying Online Bachelor’s Degrees

We are in an era when financial stability is very paramount and one of the easiest ways to gain financial stability is through education. A college education is an investment and the return on investment (ROI) of a degree should be worth it at least. This is why it is important to choose a field of study that promises a high-earning prospect.

In this article, we will explore the highest-paying online bachelor’s degrees by examining the intersection of market demand, industry trends, and academic rigor, we aim to provide aspiring students with valuable insights into the fields that offer the highest returns on their educational investment.

15 Highest Paying Online Bachelor’s Degrees

Determining the 15 highest-paying online bachelor’s degrees can be a bit complex due to various factors affecting salaries such as location, experience, and industry demand. However, here are some fields known for their potential high earnings, along with job descriptions and salary prospects:-

1. Computer Science: Computer scientists design, develop, and analyze software and computer systems. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $91,250 in May 2020.
2. Nursing: Registered nurses provide patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families. According to BLS, the median annual wage for registered nurses was $75,330 in May 2020.
3. Information Technology: IT professionals manage computer systems, networks, and databases, ensuring their security and efficiency.  According to BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $91,250 in May 2020.
4. Finance: Financial professionals analyze market trends, manage investments, and provide financial advice to individuals and businesses. According to BLS, the median annual wage for financial analysts was $83,660 in May 2020.
5. Management: Managers oversee operations, finances, and personnel within organizations, ensuring their efficient and effective functioning. According to BLS, the median annual wage for management occupations was $109,760 in May 2020.
6. Marketing: Marketing professionals develop and implement strategies to promote products or services, attract customers, and increase sales. According to BLS, the median annual wage for marketing managers was $142,170 in May 2020.
7. Economics: Economists study and analyze economic trends, collect and analyze data, and provide forecasts and advice to businesses and governments. According to BLS, the median annual wage for economists was $108,350 in May 2020.
8. Statistics: Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve problems in various fields, such as healthcare, finance, and government. According to BLS, the median annual wage for statisticians was $92,270 in May 2020.
9. Health Administration: Health administrators plan, direct, and coordinate healthcare services in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. According to BLS, the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $104,280 in May 2020.
10. Actuarial Science: Actuaries analyze financial risks using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to help businesses and clients make informed decisions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for actuaries was $111,030 in May 2020.
11. Mechanical Engineering: Mechanical engineers design, develop, and test mechanical devices, tools, and machines, such as engines, heating and cooling systems, and robots.  They work in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and research and development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for mechanical engineers was $90,160 in May 2020.
12. Software Engineering: Software engineers design, develop, and test software applications and systems for computers and other electronic devices. They work in industries such as computer systems design, software publishing, finance, and manufacturing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for software developers, which includes software engineers, was $110,140 in May 2020.
13. Petroleum Engineering: Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from underground reservoirs, as well as for maximizing production and minimizing costs. They work primarily in the oil and gas extraction industry, but also engineering services, management, and research and development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for petroleum engineers was $137,330 in May 2020.
14. Business Administration: Business administrators and managers plan, direct, and coordinate the operations of businesses and organizations to ensure their efficiency and profitability. They oversee various functions such as finance, human resources, marketing, and operations management. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for management occupations, which includes business administrators and managers, was $109,760 in May 2020.
15. Aeronautics: Aeronautical engineers design, develop, and test aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems and components. They work in industries such as aerospace manufacturing, defense, government, and research and development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for aerospace engineers, which includes professionals in aeronautics, was $118,610 in May 2020.

Above are the 15 Highest-paying Online Bachelor’s Degrees, these figures are based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, which provides comprehensive information on job descriptions, salaries, and job prospects for various occupations. Keep in mind that salaries can fluctuate as a result of factors such as location, experience, and industry demand.

What is the average cost of Online Bachelor’s degrees?

It is not easy to tell the exact cost of an online bachelor’s degree, this is because there are factors that determine the total cost of online education for each individual. These factors include the institution, the program, and the student’s residency status.

However, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition and fees for undergraduate programs at public institutions in the United States were approximately $9,350 for in-state students and $26,820 for out-of-state students for the 2020-2021 academic year.

For online programs specifically, costs may differ from traditional on-campus programs. Some online programs offer lower tuition rates for all students, while others may have similar tuition rates for both online and on-campus students.

Additionally, online students may incur additional costs such as technology fees, online course fees, and costs associated with distance learning resources. To pinpoint the actual cost of online education, you have to conduct your research based on your preferred course of study and location; you can then compare costs across the institutions you prefer and pick the one that suits you.

What Are The Admission Requirements For An Online Bachelor’s degree?

The admission requirements for online bachelor’s degree programs are different across institutions, below is a glimpse at the most widely used criteria for admission:-

1. High School Diploma: Most online bachelor’s programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent, such as a GED certificate.
2. Minimum GPA: Many programs have a minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement for admission. This GPA threshold can vary but is typically around 2.0 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
3. Standardized Test Scores: Some programs may require applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. However, an increasing number of institutions have been moving away from this requirement, particularly for online programs.
4. Application Form: Applicants are usually required to complete an online application form, providing personal information, academic history, and contact details.
5. Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previous educational institutions attended, including high schools, colleges, and universities. These transcripts are used to verify academic qualifications.
6. Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may request letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or other individuals who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities and character.
7. Personal Statement or Essay: Many programs require applicants to submit a personal statement or essay outlining their academic and career goals, relevant experiences, and reasons for pursuing the degree.
8. English Language Proficiency: International applicants whose native language is not English may need to demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting scores from standardized tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
9. Additional Requirements: Depending on the program, applicants may need to fulfill additional requirements, such as completing prerequisite courses, submitting a portfolio of work (for certain art or design programs), or participating in an admissions interview.

You have been provided with an overview of the requirements for an online bachelor’s degree program, all you need to do is research the college you want to enroll in to get the specific admission criteria applicable to your preferred course of study.

1. Clarify your academic, career, and personal objectives.
2. Ensure colleges are accredited by recognized agencies.
3.  Consider reputation, curriculum, faculty, and specialization options.
4. Check course scheduling and support services for online learners.
5. Review available resources like learning platforms and support services.
6. Compare tuition, fees, and financial aid options.
7. Look into academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring.
8. Seek feedback from current and former students.
9. Look into the college’s reputation and rankings.
10.  Reach out for more information and clarity.

If you follow these outlines, you will be able to determine which college is best for your academic needs.