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Best Online Degree Programmes for Working Adults

Article • reading time: 10 min. | 02. Aug 2024, written by Shahgoontalai Manirajah
Tags OnlineDegreePrograms WorkingAdults CareerAdvancement EducationForProfessionals OnlineLearning IUKnowledgeBase SuccessJourney
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Elevate your career with the best online degree programmes for working adults

Are you a working adult juggling multiple responsibilities, including a career and a family?  

If so, pursuing a traditional degree programme as an on-campus student may be out of the question. However, with the rise of online learning , obtaining a degree has become more accessible than ever. 

Online degree programmes give you the flexibility you need to balance your personal and professional lives while pursuing your higher education. They allow you to study at your own pace, on your own schedule, and from anywhere with an internet connection. Moreover, many online degree programmes are specifically designed for working adults, offering accelerated options that condense coursework into shorter time frames. 

In this article, we'll explore the best online degree programmes for working adults, including accelerated options that can help you achieve your academic and career goals.  We understand the challenges and advantages that come with balancing work, family, and education, and we're here to help you navigate through this journey.  

Let's dive in and discover the best options for you. 

Accelerated degree programmes

What are Accelerated Degree Programmes for working adults?

A mother and father working from home with their three kids

Accelerated degree programmes for working adults are designed to provide a faster route to obtaining a degree. These programmes condense coursework into shorter time frames, allowing you to complete your online degree in less time than a traditional programme. 

Accelerated programmes often include a more intensive course load, which means you'll need to prepare to put in more time and effort into your studies. However, the payoff is significant.  

By completing an accelerated degree programme, you'll be able to start applying your new skills and knowledge to your career sooner. 

Many online universities and colleges offer accelerated degree programmes for working adults, making it easier than ever to pursue higher education while balancing your other responsibilities. 

A young professional shaking hands with her employer after accepting a job offer

With the help of flexible online courses, universities like IU give students from all around the world the chance to graduate more quickly and at a lesser cost. The flexibility of their online learning programmes appeals to adult learners because most IU students finish their degrees while holding down a full-time job.  

With a strong expertise in helping working adults complete their degrees successfully and succeed on their career path, IU offers top-notch online courses focused on teaching market-relevant skills along with all the support they need to be successful.  

IU takes pride in its high-quality, affordable, and career-focused degree programmes from online bachelor's degree to master's degree. 

Accelerated degree programmes are an excellent choice for those looking to fast-track their education and career. They offer a faster route to obtaining your degree, which means you can start applying your new skills and knowledge to your career sooner. Plus, online degrees provide the same quality education as traditional programmes, so you won't have to sacrifice quality for speed. 

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9 best online degree programmes

The 9 best online degree programmes for working adults

Computer Science

Two computer scientists concentrating at work

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

In-demand field: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow by 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations [1]. 

Flexibility: Computer science degrees can lead to a variety of careers, including software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity, giving students the flexibility to choose their career path that aligns with their interests and schedules.  

High earning potential: Computer science jobs pay well, with a median annual salary of $88,240 in 2020, according to the BLS. 

What will you learn?

Programming languages:

Students will learn various programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++.

Algorithms and data structures:

Students will understand how to write efficient algorithms and data structures for handling large data sets.

Computer architecture and systems:

Students will learn about computer hardware, operating systems, and networks.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

These are median annual salaries for the different computer science positions based on BLS: 

Software developer:

median annual salary of $120,730 [2].

Data scientist:

median annual salary of $100,910 [3].

Information security analyst:

median annual salary of $102,600 [4].

It's important to note that salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, company size, experience, and education. 

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Data Science

Two data scientists working at a bright attractive office

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • High demand: Data science is one of the fastest-growing fields, with a projected job growth rate of 36% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS [5]. 
  • Wide range of career opportunities: Data science skills are needed across industries, including finance, healthcare, and e-commerce, giving students many career paths to choose from. 
  • Remote work opportunities: Many data science jobs can be done remotely, providing flexibility for working adults.

What will you learn?

Statistics:

Students will learn statistical methods for data analysis, including probability theory, regression analysis, and hypothesis testing.

Machine learning:

Students will learn how to apply machine learning algorithms to analyze data and make predictions.

Big data:

Students will learn how to handle large datasets using technologies such as Hadoop and Spark.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

Based on data from BLS, the following are the median annual salaries in the United States: 

Data analyst:

The median annual salary for a data analyst is $82,326 [6].

Data scientist:

The median annual salary for a data scientist is $100,910 [3].

Business intelligence analyst:

The median annual salary for a business intelligence analyst is $87,660 [7].

Please note that salaries may vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and experience. 

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Robotics

A young woman in a lab coat working on robots

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • Rapidly growing field: The global robotics market was valued at $26.52 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.5% from 2023 to 2030, according to Grand View Research [8]. 
  • High demand: Robotics skills are needed in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. 
  • Wide range of job roles: Robotics degrees can lead to jobs in robotics engineering, software development, and project management. 

What will you learn?

Mechanical design:

Students will learn how to design and build robots, including motors, sensors, and control systems.

Electronics and control:

Students will learn how to program robots using languages such as C++ and Python.

Artificial intelligence:

Students will learn how to apply AI techniques to robots, including machine learning and computer vision.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

Robotics engineer:

The median annual salary for a robotics engineer is $99,040 [9].

Automation engineer:

The median annual salary for an automation engineer is $80,990 [11].

Please note that salaries may vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and experience. 

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Cybersecurity

A group of cyber security experts gathering around a man to review work on a tablet

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • Increasing demand: According to BLS, there is a 31% increase in cybersecurity jobs from 2019 to 2029 [12]. 
  • High importance: In today's digital age, cybersecurity has become a top priority for businesses and governments to protect sensitive information and assets. 
  • Diverse career paths: Cybersecurity degrees can lead to a range of career paths, including cybersecurity analyst, penetration tester, and security consultant. 

What will you learn?

Cyber threats and attacks:

Students will learn about various types of cyber threats and attacks, including malware, phishing, and ransomware.

Network security:

Students will understand how to design and implement secure networks using firewalls, encryption, and other security measures.

Risk management:

Students will learn how to assess and manage cybersecurity risks, including developing incident response plans.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

Cybersecurity analyst:

median annual salary of $102,600 [13].

Information security analyst:

median annual salary of $103,590 [14].

Penetration tester:

median annual salary of $90,621 [15].

Please note that salaries can vary based on factors such as location, years of experience, and industry, and may have changed since then. 

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AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Two artificial intelligence experts working together in a lav

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • Growing demand: According to the World Economic Forum, AI could see a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25% between 2020-2025, to reach $246 billion [16]. 
  • Wide range of applications: AI has applications in many fields, including healthcare, finance, and transportation. 
  • Futureproofing: AI is expected to transform many industries and job roles, making it a valuable skill for working adults to acquire. 

What will you learn?

Machine learning:

Students will learn how to create machine learning models to analyse data and make predictions.

Natural language processing:

Students will understand how to program computers to understand and generate human language.

Robotics and automation:

Students will learn how to develop intelligent robots and automation systems.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

According to BLS, the following are the median annual salaries in the United States: 

Machine learning engineer:

median annual salary of $126,830 [17].

AI engineer:

median annual salary of $131,490 [18].

Robotics engineer:

median annual salary of $88,430 [9].

It's worth noting that salaries for specific roles can change over time and can vary based on factors such as location and industry, among others. 

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Online MBA for working adults

Two young professional business men working in a brightly lit office

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • Versatility: An MBA degree can lead to various career paths in business, including management, marketing, and finance. 
  • Networking opportunities: MBA programmes offer ample networking opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field. 
  • Career advancement: An MBA degree can help working adults advance to higher-level management positions or transition to a different field. 

What will you learn?

Business strategy:

Students will learn how to analyse business markets and develop strategies to compete effectively.

Financial management:

Students will understand how to manage finances, including financial statements, budgeting, and investments.

Leadership and management:

Students will learn how to lead teams and manage projects.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

Based on BLS, the following are the median annual salaries in the United States: 

Marketing manager:

median annual salary of $135,030 [19].

Financial manager:

median annual salary of $134,180 [20].

Chief executive officer (CEO):

median annual salary of $179,520 [21].

It's important to note that these salaries can change over time and can vary based on factors such as location and industry, among others. 

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Engineering

An engineer smiling while crossing his arms and standing in a large warehouse

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • High demand: There is a high demand for engineers in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and technology. 
  • Transferable skills: Engineering degrees provide transferable skills that are valuable in many fields, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis. 
  • Career growth: An engineering degree can lead to opportunities for career progression, including managerial positions. 

What will you learn?

Technical skills:

Students will learn technical skills such as mechanics, materials science, and electrical systems.

Problem-solving:

Students will learn how to analyse problems and develop solutions using scientific methods and critical thinking.

Design and innovation:

Students will learn how to design and innovate products and systems that meet customer needs.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

Here are the reported median salaries for these positions in the United States: 

Mechanical engineer:

median annual salary of $90,160 [22].

Electrical engineer:

median annual salary of $100,420 [23].

Civil engineer:

median annual salary of $87,060 [24].

It's worth noting that this is not the real-time salary data and these salaries can change over time and can vary based on factors such as location and industry, among others. 

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Marketing Management

Two marketing managers working on a branding strategy together

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • Versatility: Marketing management degrees can lead to various career paths, including marketing research, brand management, and digital marketing. 
  • Business acumen: Marketing management degrees provide knowledge of business fundamentals, which is valuable for career growth in various industries. 
  • Creative skills: Marketing management degrees develop creative skills, which are necessary for developing marketing campaigns and branding strategies. 

What will you learn?

Marketing research:

Students will learn how to gather and analyse data to inform marketing decisions.

Brand management:

Students will learn how to develop and manage brands to create strong brand awareness and loyalty.

Digital marketing:

Students will learn how to leverage digital platforms to reach target audiences as well as promote products and services.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

According to the BLS, here are the median annual salaries for the following the roles:

Marketing manager:

median annual salary of $135,900 [19].

Public relations manager:

median annual salary of $135,900 [25].

Market research analyst:

median annual salary of $63,790 [25].

It's important to note that salaries can vary depending on factors such as location, industry, experience, and education. 

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Finance and Accounting

Two women working in an office together evaluating a company's financial performance

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • High demand: Finance and accounting professionals are in high demand in various industries, including banking, investment, and corporate finance. 
  • Career versatility: A finance and accounting degree can lead to various career paths, including financial analysis, accounting, and investment banking. 
  • Competitive salaries: Finance and accounting professionals earn competitive salaries with opportunities for career growth. 

What will you learn?

Financial analysis:

Students will learn how to analyse financial statements, evaluate financial performance, and make investment decisions.

Accounting principles:

Students will learn accounting principles, including financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.

Investment strategies:

Students will learn investment strategies, including portfolio management, risk management, and asset valuation.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

Here are the median salaries reported by the BLS for these occupations:  

Financial analyst:

median annual salary of $91,580 [26].

Accountant:

median annual salary of $73,560 [27].

Finance Manager:

median annual salary of $134,180 [28].

Please note that salaries may vary depending on factors such as location, industry, and experience.

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International Management

An international manager smiling and standing in front of a group of colleagues seated at an office

Why is this degree suitable for working adults?

  • Globalization: The increasing trend towards globalization has led to a higher demand for professionals with international business skills. 
  • Cross-cultural communication: International management degrees focus on developing cross-cultural communication skills, which are essential in today's global business environment. 
  • Career versatility: International management degrees can lead to various career paths, including international business development, global marketing, and international finance. 

What will you learn?

Global business strategy:

Students will learn how to analyse global markets and develop strategies to compete effectively.

Cross-cultural communication:

Students will develop cross-cultural communication skills to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

International finance:

Students will understand international finance concepts, including foreign exchange, international trade, and investment.

What are the job prospects and earning potential?

According to salary data from Glassdoor, here are the median annual salaries for the following roles:

International business development manager:

median annual salary of $150,000 [29].

Marketing manager:

median annual salary of $135,900 [19].

International finance manager:

median annual salary generally tends to be $134,180 [28].

It's worth noting that salary data can fluctuate over time and can also vary depending on the source. 

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Next steps
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Ready to take the next step? Contact us today!

In conclusion, we know that pursuing higher education can be challenging, especially when you're balancing work and other responsibilities. That's why at IU, we offer the best online degree programmes for working adults, including accelerated options that can help you achieve your goals faster. Our online courses are designed to provide you with the flexibility and support you need to succeed in your academic and professional pursuits.  

We're always here to help, so please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need more information about our online courses. We're committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need through various resources such as academic advisors, career services, tutoring, and a range of online programme tools as well as platforms to make informed decisions about your education and achieve your goals. 

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FAQ

FAQ

What degree is best for older adults?

The best degree for adult students will depend on their career goals and interests. However, many older adults may consider pursuing degrees in fields that are experiencing high demand, such as healthcare, technology, or business. These fields often have many job opportunities, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career advancement. 

What degree is best for working at home?

Many degrees from bachelor’s to master’s degree can be pursued online, which can be beneficial for those who work from home. However, degrees in fields such as information technology, computer science, digital marketing, graphic design, writing/communication and business are often popular choices for individuals who work remotely. These fields may offer flexibility in terms of working hours, as well as opportunities to work from home. 

Can you do 1 year degree?

Yes, some universities and colleges offer accelerated online degree programmes that can be completed in as little as one year. However, these programmes are typically designed for adult students who have already completed some university coursework or have significant work experience in the field they wish to study. 

Are online degrees accepted by employers?

Yes, online degrees are generally accepted by employers, especially if they are earned from accredited institutions. 

Thinking of switching careers at 40? Uncover our insightful guidance and learn about the top employment options!

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