The Best Online Degrees for Work From Home Jobs

The Coronavirus has now effectively changed the way that we operate in many regards and across many domains of life in the United States. This includes education. Efforts to control the spread of Covid-19 have resulted in some colleges and universities transitioning to more online courses and online degree programs being offered.

The virus has also transitioned large portions of the modern workforce into work from home jobs. This list is designed to capture both, the best online degrees for work for home jobs.

The plan of colleges and universities is for academic life to remain as normal as possible for the fall of 2020, with adjustments being made to facilitate online learning without disrupting education tracts and degree progress.

This pandemic has also restructured how we conduct business. The pandemic’s effect on society has shown us that education and work can be done online and from home. More businesses are going online and being done remotely than ever before in history.

Given the increase in both online degrees and online jobs, we have conducted research to see which degrees are conducive to both.

Would you like to work from home? We have made a list of the best degrees to land a long-lasting and lucrative work from home job. These work from home jobs are going to be in place for the foreseeable future. It is not too late to begin getting your degree to allow you to work from home for, possibly, the rest of your career. All salary information is gathered from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unless otherwise noted.

The Best Online Degrees for Work From Home Jobs

Business

1. Business Administration

A business administration degree program provides students with business management principles, interpersonal skills and technical knowledge needed for roles in nonprofit, public and private organizations.

Graduates can work as business analysts, operations managers, human resource generalists or venture into entrepreneurship.
Those who further their education with a Master in Business Administration (MBA) degree qualify for a variety of management roles from executive directors to corporate controllers to independent consultants and more.

Employment of business and financial operations occupations is projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for business and financial occupations was $69,820 in May 2019, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations.

2. Marketing (Social Media Marketing, Global Marketing)

Students enrolled in a marketing degree program focus on sales, promotions, product placement, human behavior and cultural factors that shape advertising campaigns and marketing promotions.

A marketing degree program consists of courses in marketing theory, marketing strategies, business, commerce, networking, and more.

Graduates are prepared for careers in health care, higher education, public policy, professional sports, real estate, and entertainment, among others.

Overall employment for marketing managers is expected to grow 8 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for marketing managers was $136,850 in May 2019.

3. Project Management/Operations Management

A master’s degree in Project Management features courses in business concept and project management skills. Most programs require applicants to have work experience before applying.

Graduates also can earn professional certification in project management, which is highly sought after by companies and businesses.

Project managers work in education, technology, the private sector and more.

The median annual wage for project managers/operations managers was $123,030 in May 2019.

4. Human Resources

Human resources is a broad field with a host of employment opportunities for those who hold a degree in human resources. Those interested in the field can pursue an associate’s, bachelor’s or master’s degree in human resources.

Human Resources degree programs feature an overview of human resources practices and principles, business and technology training, and communication courses.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for human resources managers to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for human resources managers was $116,720 in May 2019.

5. Customer Service

While some customer service jobs only require a high school diploma, those who hold a degree in customer service are eligible to different opportunities in the customer service, hospitality management and sales fields. Career options include hotel manager, healthcare administrator, lodging manager, and more.

The median annual salary for customer service representatives was $34,710 per year.

6. Retail

A bachelor’s degree in retail and sales management provides students with a broad base of business skills suited for careers as marketing executives, sales analyst/researcher, retail buyer, and more. In addition to the degree, most retail sales managers also have work experience as a sales representative.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of retail sales managers will grow 5 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

The median wage for sales managers was $126,640 in May 2019.

Computer Science

7. Computer Science

A Computer Science degree prepares graduates to impact industries, solve projects and take on new challenges each day.
Degree programs include courses in core IT skills, artificial intelligence, database and information retrieval, numerical and symbolic computation, and data structures.

Graduates can pursue careers as computer programmers, information security analysts, computer support specialists, network and computer systems administrators, and more.

The employment of web developers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2018 to 2028, and the median annual wage was $73,760 in 2019.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects employment of network and computer systems administrators to grow 5 percent during that time. The median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $83,510 in May 2019.

8. Software Engineer

A bachelor’s degree in software engineering includes the study of computer programming, the software life cycle, mathematics, and more.

Entry-level jobs require an associate’s degree, but a bachelor’s degree is the standard minimum requirement for software engineers. Those who hold a master’s degree can pursue management, research and information security careers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of software developers to grow 21 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for software developers, applications was $103,620 in May 2018, and the median annual wage for software developers, systems software was $110,000.

9. Data Analytics

An online degree in Data Analytics provides students with an in-depth understanding of data analysis and the techniques and concepts for data mining, machine learning, and tools and methods needed to generate visual presentations of data.

Operations research analysts use advanced analytical and mathematical methods to solve complex issues.

The median annual wage for operations research analysts was $84,810 in May 2019.

Employment of operations research analysis is projected to grow 26 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

10. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Those interested in artificial intelligence or machine learning can pursue an online Computer Science degree with a track or concentration in Artificial Intelligence. Courses often include machine learning, decision-making and robotics, ethics and artificial intelligence, functional programming, and computer systems.

Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 16 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average. The median annual wage for computer scientists was $122,840 in May 2019.

11. Video Game Design and Video Game Art

An online Bachelor’s degree in Video Game Design provides students with a solid foundation needed for careers in game design, graphic design or multimedia artists. Programs typically emphasize the technical or artistic side of video gaming and game design.

Video Game Design programs combine art theory and training, storytelling, technical skill and programming. Students often complete a portfolio or project.

The median annual wage for multimedia artists and animators was $75,270 in May 2019.

The employment of multimedia is projected to grow 4 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as average for all occupations.

12. Web Developer

An online Bachelor’s degree in Web Development prepares graduates to manage the entire web development process. Students learn to manage teams and collaborate with others and develop skills in web application development, database development, user experience design, graphic design and more.

The median annual wage for web developers was $73,760 in May 2019.

Employment is expected to grow 13 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average for all occupations.

Money

13. Finance

An online Bachelor’s degree in Finance prepares graduates for a host of careers including commercial bank management, insurance, security analysis, trust management, and financial management in businesses and firms. Many programs allow students to choose a concentration to tailor the degree to their specific career goals.

Programs include courses in communication, ethics, and general business skills. Some programs require a portfolio or final project.

The median annual wage for financial analysts was $85,660 in May 2018. Employment of financial analysts is projected to grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

The median annual wage for personal financial advisers was $87,850 in May 2019.

Employment is projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for all occupations.

14. Accounting

Most accounting careers require at least an associate’s degree, but those interested in becoming certified public accountants need to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.

A Master’s in Accounting can prepare students for the Uniform CPA exam.

Accounting programs typically include courses in economics, business, statistics, auditing, and ethics, among others.

Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as average for all occupations. The median wage for accountants and auditors was $71,500 in May 2019.

15. Tax Expert

The tax consulting profession doesn’t require a specific degree, many tax consultants hold bachelor’s degrees in accounting or finance and hold the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential.

Students also can pursue a Master’s degree in Taxation, which allows them to hone their skills in tax research, accounting for income taxes, and estate and gift taxation.

The median annual wage for tax preparers was $43,080 in May 2019.

Language

16. Translation

A Master’s degree in Translation prepares students for careers in written translation and oral transportation.

Programs include courses in translation and interpretation technology, software and tools. Programs also allow students to develop skills in their native and near-native languages.

Employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow 19 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average for all occupations. The median annual wage for interpreters and translators was $51,830 in May 2019.

17. Writer

Depending on the type of writing that suits their interests, students can pursue an undergraduate degree in English with an emphasis in writing or creative writing, or journalism. Programs often include courses in literature, literary theory, grammar and rhetoric, and composition.

Students also can pursue a master’s degree in writing, which provides an advanced understanding of writing techniques and literary theory.

Employment of writers and authors is projected to show little or no change from 2018 to 2028. The median annual wage for writers and authors was $63,200 in May 2019.

18. Transcription

An online Associate’s degree in Medical Transcription includes courses in medical terminology, medical records transcription, human anatomy, ethics within the health care industry, and industry software.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment of medical transcriptionists to decline 3 percent from 2018 to 2028. The median annual wage for medical transcriptionists was $33,380 in May 2019.

19. Linguistics

A Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics prepares students for careers in translation, interpreting, and more.

Programs often feature courses in syntax, phonetics, dialects, English and another language, logic, and language acquisition.

20. Content Editor

Content editors create, edit, layout and publish Web content.
Content editors often hold a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism or communications.

Programs include courses in writing and grammar. Programs also should include elective courses or tracks in computer software, HTML and digital editing.

The median annual wage for editors was $61,370 in May 2019.

Teaching

21. English as a Second Language (ESL)

Those interested in teaching English as a Second Language should hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Some programs offer second language coursework that emphasizes an understanding of linguistic theories, English language structure and grammar, listening and speaking in a second language, and applied linguistics for second language learning.

Teachers who already hold a bachelor’s degree in education can add an English to Speakers of Other Languages certification by taking an exam.

A Master’s degree in ESL builds on concepts and principles taught during the undergraduate program.

An ESL degree can prepare graduates to work with both children and adults.

The employment of adult literacy teachers is projected to decline 10 percent from 2018 to 2028. The median annual wage for adult literacy teachers was $54,350 in May 2019.

The overall employment of elementary school teachers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2018 to 2028. The median annual wage for elementary school teachers was $59,670 in May 2019.

22. Education (Math, English, History, etc.)

An online Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education provides students with a strong foundation in teaching and learning as well as a focus in their chosen content area – biology, mathematics, English, or physics, for example.

Some states also require that teachers hold a Master’s degree in Secondary Education, which further expands on teaching topics such as diversity inclusion in the classroom, social and emotional learning, and more.

Employment of high school teachers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as average for all occupations. The median wage for high school teachers was $61,660 in May 2019.

23. Early Childhood Education

An online Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education provides students with a working knowledge of child development, early childhood education, early childhood literacy, curriculum development and more.

Some states require teachers to hold a master’s degree.

Early Childhood Education programs prepare graduates for careers in schools, day care centers, as in-home nannies and more.

Employment for preschool teachers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than average for all occupations. The median annual wage for preschool teachers was $30,520 in May 2019.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects employment of childcare workers to grow 2 percent from 2018 to 2028, slower than average. The median annual wage was $24,230 in May 2019.

24. Special Education

An online Bachelor’s degree in Special Education provides would-be teachers with the skills need to develop and implement curricula for students with special needs, teaching and disciplinary methods for disruptive students and how to advocate for their students.

The degree prepares graduates for a career as a special education teacher as well as an instructional coordinator or developer of curriculum.

Employment for special education teachers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2018 to 2028, slower than average for all occupations. The median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,030 in May 2019.

25. Tutoring

Although there is not an official tutoring degree, most tutors hold a degree in education. Or Tutors may hold a degree in a subject related to what they are tutoring students in, such as a degree in mathematics if they are a math tutor.

The median annual wage for tutors was $39,350 in May 2019.

The overall employment of elementary school teachers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2018 to 2028.

Healthcare

26. Medical Billing and Coding

An online Associate’s degree in Medical Billing and Coding prepares students for entry-level careers in the health information field as well as national coding certification exams.

Programs include courses in medical terminology, human anatomy, medical ethics, patient account management, medical insurance claim processing, and more.

Employment of medical records and health information technicians is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average for all occupations. The median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $40,350 in May 2018.

27. Healthcare Administration

An online Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration provides students with the skills and knowledge needed for careers in hospitals, care facilities, physician offices, and other healthcare organizations.

Programs include course topics such as healthcare economics, healthcare delivery systems, healthcare strategic management and policy, and healthcare quality management, among others.

Employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 18 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than average for all occupations. The median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $100,980 in May 2019.

28. Healthcare Management

An online Bachelor’s in Business Administration – Healthcare Management program features course topics such as business management, healthcare marketing, foundations of human care, and international healthcare, among others.

Some programs also include hands-on experience or scenario-based simulations, which prepare graduates to lead a team of healthcare workers.

Law

29. Paralegal

Paralegals are integral parts of law firms and handle much of the necessary components of legal cases. An online Associate’s degree in Paralegal will qualify for a career. Paralegals perform many of the same functions as lawyers, such as writing briefs and doing investigative work on behalf of clients. It’s a position that melds a certain degree of legal practice with necessary administrative duties.

Paralegals make $51,740 per year ($24.87 per hour). The growth rate is 12%, adding 39,000 more Paralegal jobs between now and 2028 (this growth rate is much faster than average).

30. Legal Studies

Online colleges offer degrees in Legal Studies predominantly in bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. Students often pursue a bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies to prepare them for law school. The degree covers broad categories of all things legal, such as the systems, research, and writing aspects of the legal field. Schools may cover topics such as International Law, Business Law, and Technology Law, to give a few examples. This degree often leads to law school.

This degree field can prepare graduates for careers as legal assistants, legal consultants, lobbyist, and as a paralegal. Legal Assistants and Paralegals are grouped together, and earn $51,740 per year ($24.87 per hour, as the median salary of 2019).