25 Best Online Degrees for 2024

If you’re thinking about earning a bachelor’s degree through an online program, you’re in good company. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that in 2022, over 5 million college students enrolled in at least one online course, comprising more than half of the total college student population.

Online education often appeals to recent high school graduates, adults returning to college after a break, and working adults looking to change careers. Whether you want to advance in your current career or you plan to enter an entirely different field, a smart first step is to narrow down your options to schools and programs that will best help you achieve your goals.

Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDs) we examined 197 bachelor’s degree programs to find out which majors brought the greatest return on investment — in money, time and growth in the future.

It is important to note that not all degree programs may be available at schools in your area, nor may they offer the specialization you are interested in pursuing. Also, every degree program differs in content and requirements, and some degree programs may not be offered 100 percent online (because they require on-campus clinical components, for example). Whatever online degree program you consider, be sure to check each school’s specific program requirements and what, if any, specialized options they offer.

Here are the best 25 online bachelor’s degrees for 2024, including data on the number of schools offering each program. If you’ve decided on a general area of study, our rankings may help you choose a specific degree according to its employment prospects.

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
  • Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
  • Offering over 200 online degree programs

# 1 Business Administration and Management, General

degree in business administration and management gives graduates a promising career pathway. In fact, it tops our list of best online degrees for the third year in a row. This degree, which may be simply called business administration, gives students a solid foundation in business theory and practice. Typical courses include accounting, finance, management, business law, business analytics, communications, marketing and management information systems. Some schools offer this degree with optional concentrations, such as accounting or marketing. The College Board recommends those enrolling in this program enjoy taking on leadership roles and have strong communication, problem-solving and planning skills.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2022:  $107,360
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 511
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 8.75%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 6,739,800
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 59.85%

#2 Registered Nursing

Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse

The healthcare field is ever-expanding, with a corresponding demand for registered nurses. The demand for nurses with bachelors’ degrees is on the rise. In fact, the State of New York already requires nurses to complete their bachelor’s degree in nursing within 10 years of receiving their associate degrees. More states are expected to follow suit.

BSN coursework typically includes case management, community nursing, anatomy and physiology, data management and leadership. Some hands-on clinical work in a health care setting is usually required. It’s no wonder registered nursing ranks #2 for the second year in a row in our list.

For more information on how to choose a nursing program check out our
handy guide to online nursing programs
.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2022: $81,220
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2022: $93,590
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 466
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2022-32 6%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2022-32: 3,172,500

# 3 Business/Commerce, General

Business/Commerce, General

Individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in business/commerce can expect solid job prospects in the future; in our analysis of 197 degrees, this degree ranks second highest for the number of jobs. Courses in this degree program are similar to those for business administration, but there is a greater emphasis on commerce-related subjects such as accounting, economics, finance and marketing. They can be a good fit for individuals who want to start/or already own small retail businesses or those who want to work in sales.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $100,568
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $133,617
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 126
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 8.75%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 6,739,800
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 59.85%

# 4 Information Technology

Information Technology

An online Information Technology degree program appeals to new students as well as IT professionals who want to boost their knowledge and career options without taking time off their current jobs. Contrary to media depictions of socially awkward individuals, IT professionals actually need an understanding of both computers and people in order to succeed at their jobs. Students typically learn IT basics, systems administration, programming, network architecture, web development and design, and ethical hacking. As IT is such a broad field, many students choose specializations in a particular aspect of the field or an industry in order to focus their future careers in areas of their interest.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $110,090
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $139,689
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level:
    108
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 16.57%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 2,955,300
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 47.33%

#5 International Business / Trade / Commerce

International Business/Trade/Commerce

In today’s expanding global market, the demand for professionals with this degree is growing in many business sectors. It can be a rewarding choice as well; both the median salary and 75th percentile salary measures are at the top of all the degrees in our study. The typical online international business degree program is grounded in traditional business curriculum along with courses in international trade, import/export, international banking and finance, foreign business practices, and the role of international relations on business
.

The College Board recommends that prospective students have an interest in other cultures, enjoy traveling and be willing to learn a second language.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $124,830
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $165,307
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level:
    54
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 7.90%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 2,890,200
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 60.67%

#6 Marketing / Marketing Management, General

Marketing/Marketing Management, General

Marketing makes the world go ’round and is the vehicle by which businesses, government and nonprofits promote their products, programs, and services. Students majoring in marketing learn about market research, product development, pricing, brand management, marketing strategy and communications, consumer behavior, retail marketing, digital marketing/social media, advertising and promotion, sales and public relations. Some colleges offer marketing management as a concentration within a marketing degree, with specialized courses in product/pricing/promotion strategy, marketing channels, business-to-business marketing, business negotiation and international marketing. Online marketing degrees have jumped up a notch this year in our annual survey of online degrees.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $104,544
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $147,628
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level:
    123
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 12.82%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,541,500
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 53.64%

#7 Entrepreneurship / Entrepreneurial Studies

Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies

For anyone who dreams of starting their own company, managing a family-owned business, or being a change agent in the corporate environment, this degree fits the bill. Basic courses on online entrepreneurial studies program typically cover business, marketing, strategy, finance, economics, management, marketing and organizational behavior. Courses geared toward entrepreneurs may include strategic entrepreneurship, business plan development, new venture finance, and innovation and new product development. Some schools offer this degree as a specialization within in a business administration degree. To quote the College Board, “This is a great major if you’re always thinking of a better way to do something – and can convince others that you’re right.”

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $120,493
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $159,788
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 18
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 7.83%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 3,958,200
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 53.64%

#8 Management Science

Online management science degrees have moved up from the 9th position in our rankings from last year. Management science is the art of applying analytical and mathematical methods to business decisions. This course of study encompasses the knowledge, insights, and tools successful managers use to organize, lead, and control their organizations. Courses typically include management communications, organizational behavior, small business management, operations management, business strategy and policy, managing change, and business ethics. Earning a degree in management science degree can pay off – literally – with the 75th percentile earnings for degree-holders among the top ten of all degrees in our study. Students who aspire to understand and practice management skills at an organizational level often pursue this degree.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $114,470
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $151,398
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 16
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28:
    12.78%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28:
    3,035,500
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28:
    54.03%

# 9 Finance, General

Finance, General

Jobs in finance are plentiful and are projected to remain so, according to the BLS. Courses in an online finance degree typically include the fundamentals of accounting, corporate finance, analysis of investment risks, banking, insurance, portfolio management, financial planning and management, and international finance. Students learn to analyze financial opportunities, manage finances, and understand and create financial statements. Students may be able to choose specializations in areas of their interest. Many professionals working in finance also choose to obtain professional certifications to enhance their credibility. Needless to say it can be important for prospective students of finance degrees to enjoy working with numbers.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $95,809
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $133,008
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 72
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 10.27%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 4,863,400
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 46.19%

#10 Accounting and Business / Management

Accounting and Business/Management

Accountants are critical to any organization, as their job is to ensure sound financial accounting practices and regulatory compliance. Courses typically cover accounting, financial management, auditing, and accounting law. Students can expect to gain practical experience with ledgers, accruals, financial statements budgets and reporting along with general business courses that give context to the accounting role. Students learn skills such as correcting financial reporting issues and conducting ratio analyses. Some online schools offer accounting as a concentration within a business administration degree program. This degree may also prepare graduates to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and/or the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exams to become licensed professionals.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $94,717
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $129,370
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 39
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 13.17
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 2,555,000
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 80.30%

#11 Information Technology Project Management

Information Technology Project Management

Degrees in this field combine management techniques along with technology. Similar in some ways to a bachelor’s degree in IT, it adds subjects and skills such as planning, executing and managing IT projects and personnel in an organization. Students learn how to ensure that projects are successful, within budget and are on time. Courses typically include the principles of project management and organizational behavior, risk management, contracts, information security, software, and programming among others. As IT project managers are expected to take on leadership roles, students of online IT project management degree programs can develop their team leadership and communication skills, and learn to conduct financial analyses.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $109,658
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $141,840
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 8
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 14.23%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,921,000
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 64.49%

#12 Computer and Information Sciences, General

Computer and Information Sciences, General

Online degree programs in computer and information science can equip students to apply the latest technologies to organize information for a number of different industries and be able to guide users through the increasingly complex digital world. This versatile IT degree blends the study of databases and information systems, computer programming, and management information systems. Core classes usually include statistics, programming, IT project management, information security, design/management/analysis of database systems and systems strategy. They may also be able to specialize in topics like application development, business intelligence, cybersecurity and networking. An online computer and information sciences degree can be a great way to gain generalized knowledge of the field before deciding on a career path.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $100,409
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $129,841
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 67
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 10.11%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 2,175,500
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 48.51%

#13 Psychology, General

Psychology

Staying resolutely at number 13 the second year in a row, psychology degree programs are still popular with online students. These degrees have applications in the workplace, the community and in personal life. A bachelor’s degree program in this subject can help students understand the link between psychology and other disciplines, how to apply knowledge to real-world situations, and how to evaluate social and behavioral research. Typical courses include psychology basics, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, perception and sensation, neuroscience, and research methods. Depending on the school, this major may offer specializations in the psychology of business or social action, among others.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $91,842
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $120,662
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 227
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 10.32%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,311,200
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 23.36%

#14 Computer Science

Computer Science

Careers in technology continue to grow in number, specialization and earning potential along with the number of online programs available to students interested in the field. Computer science can be broadly differentiated from IT as computer scientists focus mainly on the theoretical side of developing computer applications as opposed to IT professionals who look into making them user-friendly. Courses in online computer science degree programs typically include computer architecture, programming basics, database and information management, software engineering, computer systems and networking, user interfaces, and algorithms analysis. Students may also learn about cutting-edge subjects such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cryptology. This degree can open doors to careers such as computer programmer, software designer, software engineer, Web developer, database administrator and more.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $96,184
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $124,973
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 35
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 13.14%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 3,155,900
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 45.35%

#15 Computer Software Engineering

Computer Software Engineering

Online computer software engineering degree programs have moved up two steps from last year’s rankings. This degree program is designed to prepare students to analyze, design, implement and maintain complex software systems. Students can expect to learn the basics of IT infrastructure and architecture, programming, and specifics in algorithms, database management, project management, and testing and validation. By studying and practicing skills in human-computer interaction, game development and programming, and application and interface design, students can learn to tailor software to users’ needs and interests, instead of the user adapting to the software.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $114,025
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $145,805
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 8
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 15.33%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,800,200
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 38.96%

# 16 Computer and Information Systems Security / Information Assurance

Computer and Information Systems Security/Information Assurance

The threat of computer data breaches has exploded in recent years, making information security a priority for businesses, government agencies and other organizations. Students in this degree program learn about computer information systems (CIS) as well as information security — subjects that are sometimes presented in separate programs. The result is a complete package that teaches students how to address practical business needs with technology. Students are usually taught how to build, maintain and monitor firewalls and other network defense technologies and to detect unusual behavior. Data backup and restoration, and incident response procedures are usually part of the curriculum. Some degree programs also help students earn related IT certifications.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $97,465
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $124,700
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 66
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 12.07%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,476,200
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 57.17%

#17 Public Administration

Public Administration

An online degree program in public administration can provide students with a fundamental knowledge of business as well as government policy and administration. Those who pursue this degree usually focus on gaining the skills and insights to plan and formulate policy and to manage, organize, and implement operations in the public sector. These programs may suit broadminded individuals who want to make a difference. Courses generally cover various aspects of organizational governance, finance and administration. Some schools offer public administration as a concentration within a business administration degree. Graduates tend to pursue careers as administrators and program managers in government agencies and public service sectors, such as fire and rescue or health care; and nonprofit organizations.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $94,100
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $125,097
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 42
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 3.11%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 4,199,500
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 49.80%

#18 Information Science

Information Science

Information science studies the interaction between people (users), technology and data. It integrates an understanding of human-technology interface, the role of culture in technology, as well as societal challenges such as the digital divide and protecting minors online. Students can expect to study various IT related topics like human-computer interaction along with programming languages, application development and database administration. Learning to manage large databases and understanding how humans interact with technology can help students design effective and user-friendly information management systems. Potential occupations for graduates with this degree include data scientists, health information managers and database administrators.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $108,678
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $141,194
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 54
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 11.78%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,271,500
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 39.25%

#19 Medical Informatics

Medical Informatics

The growth of our healthcare system has necessitated the creation of medical informatics – the science of using data and technology to improve healthcare safety and services. And as healthcare has grown more complex in recent years, so have the organizations and systems that support them. Of all the online degrees in our study, medical informatics ranks in the top three for projected 10-year growth in the number of related jobs. Students can expect to learn about the structure and management of health care organizations and systems, as well as aspects such as law and ethics, finance and economics, reimbursement management, regulation, public health, cultural issues, bioethics, health care policy and research. Some colleges offer this degree with specialization in areas such as health services administration, community health, leadership and education.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $104,087
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $132,333
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 9
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 19.57%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,430,900
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 44.94%

#20 Accounting and Finance

Accounting and Finance

Graduates with a degree in accounting and finance can find jobs in a wide variety of businesses and other organizations. Unlike an accounting and business degree which can focus on business and management topics like, this online degree program focuses on all things finance. Courses taken can include a comprehensive blend of accounting and finance basics, financial planning and management, corporate finance, operations management, auditing, tax accounting, accounting law, and insurance. Graduates of these degree programs may find employment wealth management firms, banks, along with businesses in the public and private sectors, among others.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $90,093
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $121,090
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 5
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 11.50%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 2,617,200
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 68.87%

#21 Network and System Administration/Administrator

Network and System Administration/Administrator

Contrary to what we see in some sci-fi movies, computer systems don’t build, deploy and maintain on their own. Rather, the smooth and safe operations of these systems depend on skilled network administrators and analysts. A degree in computer network and systems administration can prepare students for such a career. The College Board recommends that aspiring network and systems administrators should have strong communication skills and love analyzing and solving problems. Students of online network and systems administration degrees can learn to install, configure, and monitor computer networks; test website performance; and implement network security strategies. Some online colleges offer this as an advanced networking certificate in an IT degree program.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $98,944
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $126,428
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 24
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 12.18%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,343,000
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 58.18%

# 22 Hospitality Administration / Management, Other

Hospitality Administration/Management, Other

Deloitte reports although that the hospitality industry has been growing steadily for the past 10 years, it is facing a serious talent gap. Online hospitality administration and management degrees can help students gain the skills they need to enter this exciting market. Students in this major typically learn about the business of hospitality, taking courses like food service operations, marketing, hospitality finance, and lodging administration. Students of these programs may be able to choose concentrations in areas that interest them ranging from food and beverage management to events and tourism. This degree program is a new entrant on our list of rankings this year, perhaps reflecting the increased demand for qualified individuals.

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $107,480
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $143,230
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 5
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 7.60%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,068,000
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 85.05%

#23 Computer Programming, Specific Applications

Computer Programming, Specific Applications

Computer programmers play a critical role in the development of information systems; they write code that is tailored to the specific needs of the business or other organization. Students learn about operating systems and networking, programming (visual, internet), information systems analysis and design, and project management. What sets this major apart from more general computer programming majors is that students also specialize in specific applications such as gaming, language-specific application, or platform-specific certification. It is yet another tech degree that has moved up the ranks in our list of top 25 online degrees this year!

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $99,300
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $126,377
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 5
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 11.23%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 1,827,900
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 51.25%

#24 Health / Healthcare Administration / Management

Health/Healthcare Administration/ManagementHealthcare administration is a major that could prepare you for work running, or helping to run, a healthcare service facility. As our nation continues to evaluate how best to deliver and pay for effective healthcare, well-trained administrators will be needed to lead this change and oversee how facilities operate.

Typical coursework emphasizes leadership and communication skills — crucial components of this career — as well as subjects such as accounting, healthcare law and policy, anatomy and physiology, healthcare finance, long-term care and aging, human resources management and statistics. This degree is a new entrant on our list of top online degrees this year.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $99,730
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $130,820
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 206
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 19.80%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 422,000
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 27.80%

#25 Nursing Practice

Nursing Practice

Online nursing practice programs help nurses apply the latest research to their daily tasks. Students of these programs can learn how to evaluate evidence and implement clinical advanceswhile caring for their patients. Courses they take include research methods, healthcare systems, health policies, and the economics of health among others. This degree is another new entrant on our list.

Featured data points:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $92,830
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, 2018: $114,870
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level: 7
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, 2018-28: 23.53%
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 4,025,700
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, 2018-28: 28.19%

METHODOLOGY

For this analysis, we ranked 197 online degrees. To be included in the ranking, each major had to:

  • Match to a corresponding code in the Classification of Instructional Programs
  • Be offered online at the bachelor’s level at five or more institutions

We scored each major on the following data points, using a 10-point scale and the weights specified:

  • Annual median wage of each occupation matched to the major, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018
  • Annual 75th percentile wage of each occupation matched to the major, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018
  • No. of schools offering this degree online at the bachelor’s level, National Center for Education Statistics, 2018-19
  • Average projected growth rate of all jobs matched to each major, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018-28
  • Total number of jobs projected in 10 years of all occupations matched to the major, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018-28
  • Percentage of industries employing the occupations matched to the major, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018-28

Methodology Sources

  • 2018 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2018-28 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov; 2018-28 State Occupational Projections, Projections Central, projectionscentral.com
  • Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) 2018-19, National Center for Education Statistics, http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Article Sources

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Methodologies and Sources