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8 Easiest Degrees You Can Earn in Two Years

Written by Laura Amendola on Tuesday, 16 April 2024. Posted in Online College

Girl in orange shirt working on a macbook.

While no legitimate college degree is “easy,” there are some that might be considered less rigorous than others, especially if they’re two-year degrees. In this guide you’ll learn about some of the potentially easiest two-year degrees and how profitable each can be.

What makes a degree easy?

The important thing to keep in mind is that “easy” is different for every individual. Some people find math easy while others consider it one of life’s greatest challenges. The same sentiment is true for degrees - what one person finds easy isn’t necessarily easy for others.

Having an interest in a particular field may make the degree easier for you than a degree in a field you have no interest in. You may find some classes challenging, but your attention won’t sway as much. Some say degrees that are less technical, more subjective, could be easy as well. Other characteristics that can factor in whether a degree is difficult for you and your particular circumstances include:

  • Transferable credits
  • Affordability
  • School/life balance
  • Flexibility in coursework
  • Supportive staff
  • Options for continuous learning
  • Self-paced studies

You may be wondering if getting a degree is really worth it, especially if you don’t find it as easy as you thought. Ashworth College graduate Tiffany Whitter says, “With a degree comes promotions, financial benefits. Though it may seem hard, keep that end in view. What is it that you want to get out of it and what is the benefit for you? Always think about how your life will improve.”

Read more: Your Guide to Balancing College and Parenting

What is an associate degree?

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree students can earn through an academic institution that focuses on general and vocational courses.

Associate degrees at a glance:

An associate degree is a fantastic option for those who may not require a four-year degree for their career, for anyone unsure what they want to study in college, or for people who want to get their gen eds out of the way before transferring to a bachelor’s degree program.

Read more: How to Upskill Yourself: Earn More and Grow Your Career

What is the easiest degree to get in 2 years?

Once you decide an associate degree is the right path for you, you can start thinking about what degree you’d want to pursue. Here is a list:

1. Accounting

If numbers are your thing, a degree in accounting could be just what you’re looking for.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Bookkeeping
  • Accounting
  • Auditing clerks

Average salary: $45,860

2. Criminal Justice

For those who are interested in law and order, consider getting an associate degree in criminal justice.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Police officer
  • Detective

Average salary: $69,160

Read more: The 5 Best Jobs You Can Get in Criminal Justice

3. Early Childhood Education

The children of today are the adults of tomorrow, so getting a degree in early childhood education can help you get a job that plays a part in shaping the future.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Preschool teachers
  • Childcare workers

Average salary: $28,520

Read more: What Jobs Can You Get With a Child Development Associate Certificate

4. General Studies

If you’re unsure what you want to do with your life, or if you’re planning on going for a bachelor’s degree but want to get your gen eds out of the way first, a degree in general studies could be for you!

Obtainable jobs:

  • Administrative assistants
  • Property manager

Average salary: $44,080

Read more: What Can I Do With a General Studies Degree?

5. Healthcare Administration

The healthcare field is ever-growing, so getting an associate degree in healthcare administration can help you get your foot in the door.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Health information technologists
  • Medical registrars

Average salary: $58,250

Read more: What Jobs Are In Doctors Offices

6. Computer Information Systems

Most workplaces require some kind of IT or tech support, so a degree in computer information systems has the potential to provide you with a long career.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Computer support specialists

Average salary: $59,660

7. Marketing

You may be surprised to learn how many different areas there are to marketing. There are a lot of different roles you can obtain in this world, so getting an associate degree in marketing can be a great way to get started.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Advertising sales agent

Average salary: $58,450

Read more: What Kinds of Jobs Can I Get With a Marketing Degree?

8. Psychology

In a world that seems to remain in the midst of a mental health crisis, help be part of the solution by obtaining a degree in psychology.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Psychiatric technicians and aides

Average salary: $37,330

Read more: What You Can Do with a Psychology Degree

Associate degrees versus undergraduate certificates

While an associate degree is a great option for many, not everyone needs a full-fledged degree or has the time to dedicate to one. A good alternative is getting an undergraduate certificate. When time isn’t on your side, this is a quick way to get additional education to help you get ahead. Here are some undergraduate certificates you may find quicker than going through a degree program:

Construction Management

You may not think you need any specific education for a job in construction, and while it may not always be a requirement, it can certainly help set you apart.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Construction and building inspectors

Average salary: $64,480

Human Resource Management

Human resources is a great field to get into, with most companies having some form of it to recruit, enforce policies, and serve employees.

Obtainable jobs:

  • Recruiter

Salary: $58,721

Read more: What’s the Difference Between an Undergraduate Certificate & an Associate Degree?

Find the two-year degree that works best for you

The world of higher education is not one size fits all, so always be sure to explore your options! Online school is a great option for those short on time who also have a life outside of school, so learn more about how hard online school is and consider enrolling in an online two-year degree to get started on your path to a new career.

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