Want a high-paying job but don’t want to spend four years on campus? You’re not alone. With rising tuition costs and busy schedules, more people are turning to online degrees that are accredited, flexible, and career-ready. The best part? Many of them lead to high-paying jobs — even with just a bachelor’s or associate degree.
In this guide, you’ll find the top accredited online degrees that pay well in 2025. These programs are fully online, recognized by employers, and can get you into fast-growing, high-demand careers — without breaking the bank.
Let’s dive in.
Why Choose an Accredited Online Degree?
Before choosing an online program, make sure it’s accredited. Accreditation means the school meets quality standards and that your degree will be respected by employers and graduate schools.
Benefits of accredited online degrees:
- 100% online and flexible for work/life balance
- Lower tuition compared to on-campus programs
- Eligible for federal financial aid
- Accepted by employers nationwide
Now, let’s explore the online degrees that offer the highest ROI in terms of salary and job security.
1. Computer Science
- Average Salary: $85,000–$130,000/year
- Why It Pays: Tech is booming. Roles like software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts are in high demand.
- Best Online Schools: Western Governors University (WGU), Oregon State University, University of Florida (Online)
If you enjoy problem-solving, logic, or building digital products, this degree offers high salaries and remote job potential.
2. Nursing (RN to BSN)
- Average Salary: $75,000–$110,000/year
- Why It Pays: The healthcare industry is desperate for skilled nurses. Many states require RNs to hold a BSN.
- Best Online Schools: Purdue Global, Chamberlain University, Arizona State University (Online)
Already a nurse? An online BSN boosts your income and opens doors to leadership roles.
3. Business Administration
- Average Salary: $60,000–$100,000/year
- Why It Pays: Every industry needs managers, marketers, and operations experts.
- Best Online Schools: Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), University of Massachusetts Global, Liberty University
Flexible, versatile, and great for career switchers.
4. Information Technology (IT)
- Average Salary: $70,000–$115,000/year
- Why It Pays: IT powers every business today. Network administrators, system analysts, and tech support pros are in demand.
- Best Online Schools: WGU, Penn State World Campus, Colorado State University Global
Bonus: Many programs include certifications like CompTIA or Cisco.
5. Engineering (Various Fields)
- Average Salary: $80,000–$120,000/year
- Why It Pays: Engineers design the future — and they’re paid well to do it.
- Best Online Schools: Arizona State University, Old Dominion University, University of North Dakota
Choose civil, electrical, or mechanical. Most programs require some lab work but can be mostly online.
6. Accounting and Finance
- Average Salary: $65,000–$95,000/year
- Why It Pays: From taxes to audits, companies need sharp financial minds.
- Best Online Schools: University of Alabama at Birmingham, Capella University, University of Minnesota (Online)
Great path toward becoming a CPA or financial analyst.
7. Marketing
- Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000/year
- Why It Pays: Businesses crave visibility. Marketing grads land roles in digital ads, branding, and product launches.
- Best Online Schools: SNHU, University of Illinois (Online), Penn State World Campus
You can also freelance or start your own agency.
8. Education (K–12 or Adult Ed)
- Average Salary: $50,000–$80,000/year
- Why It Pays: Teachers are needed everywhere, especially those certified in special education or ESL.
- Best Online Schools: University of Phoenix, Walden University, Western Governors University
Want to teach? You can earn your credentials online and start making an impact.
9. Psychology
- Average Salary: $55,000–$95,000/year
- Why It Pays: Mental health is a growing field. Grads can work in counseling, HR, or social services.
- Best Online Schools: University of Florida (Online), Capella University, Arizona State University
Pair this degree with a master’s for even more options.
10. Health Information Management
- Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000/year
- Why It Pays: Manage digital records, patient data, and healthcare tech systems.
- Best Online Schools: University of Cincinnati, WGU, Davenport University
A great mix of healthcare and IT with rising demand.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to attend a big-name university or spend a fortune to earn a degree that pays off. These top accredited online degrees that pay well offer real career paths in fast-growing industries — with the flexibility to learn on your own terms.
Whether you’re changing careers, upskilling, or starting fresh, there’s never been a better time to earn a degree online.
👉 Ready to invest in yourself? Start exploring your options and build a career you’ll be proud of — without the campus commute.