Looking for a credential that won’t swallow your evenings, weekends, or social life? You’re not alone-every year thousands of students ask, easy degree that still opens doors. The good news is that not every program demands a marathon of lectures and labs. By understanding how universities grade, what coursework looks like, and where the market demand lies, you can choose a path that fits your schedule and goals.
What is a "Degree" and Why Does "Ease" Matter?
Degree is a formal academic qualification awarded by a college or university after completing a set of courses. While a degree signals competence, the effort required varies wildly across fields, institutions, and delivery modes. When we talk about an "easy" degree, we refer to programs that typically feature lighter credit loads, higher average GPAs, flexible grading policies, and coursework that leans more on reading and essays than on intensive labs or projects.
How We Judge "Ease" - The Six Key Factors
- Credit Load: Fewer required credit hours mean fewer classes and less homework.
- Grading Leniency: Programs with higher average GPAs often have more generous grading rubrics.
- Course Format: Online or asynchronous classes reduce commuting and allow you to study on your own schedule.
- Assessment Style: Essays and open‑book exams are generally less stressful than timed problem sets.
- Prerequisite Rigor: Degrees that avoid heavy math or science prerequisites tend to be quicker to complete.
- Career Transferability: Even an easy degree should lead to viable job options or further study.
Commonly Cited Easy Degrees
Below are the most frequently mentioned programmes that meet the criteria above. Each entry includes a brief definition and the typical student experience.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) is a four‑year undergraduate award focused on humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts. Because the curriculum emphasizes reading, discussion, and written assignments, many students find the workload manageable. Grades often hover around a 3.2-3.5 GPA nationwide.
Associate's Degree typically takes two years at a community college and requires about 60 credit hours. Programs such as General Studies or Applied Science have minimal prerequisites and are designed for quick entry into the workforce.
Online Certificate programs focus on a single skill set-think Digital Marketing, Project Management, or Data Analytics. They range from three to twelve months, involve fewer assessments, and often award a certificate rather than a full degree, but many employers view them favorably when paired with practical experience.
General Studies (sometimes called Liberal Studies) is a flexible major allowing students to pick courses across disciplines. Because you can avoid high‑level math or lab science classes, the degree can be completed with a relatively light course load.
Liberal Arts degrees share many traits with a BA but often have even broader electives, giving students control over the difficulty of each semester.
Business Administration (BBA) can be easy when you choose a concentration like Management or Hospitality, which relies on case studies and presentations rather than intensive quantitative analysis.
Accreditation ensures that a program meets quality standards set by regional or national bodies. Even an easy degree should be from an accredited institution to protect your future job prospects.
GPA (Grade Point Average) is a numeric representation of a student’s academic performance, typically on a 4.0 scale. Easy programs often report higher average GPAs, making them attractive for students who want a strong transcript without a heavy grind.
Credit Hours measure the amount of time spent in class or on coursework. A program requiring 120 credit hours spreads the workload thinner than one demanding 180.
Quick Comparison Table
| Degree Type | Typical Credit Hours | Average GPA | Grading Leniency | Typical Duration (Full‑time) | Common Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Arts (Liberal Arts) | 120 | 3.2‑3.5 | High - essay‑based, open‑book exams | 4 years | Communications, Education, Public Relations |
| Associate’s Degree (General Studies) | 60 | 3.3‑3.6 | Medium - mix of multiple‑choice and projects | 2 years | Administrative support, sales, entry‑level tech |
| Online Certificate (Digital Marketing) | 12‑18 | 3.5‑4.0 | Very high - competency‑based assessments | 4‑12 months | Social media manager, SEO specialist |
| Bachelor of Business Administration (Management) | 120 | 3.1‑3.4 | Medium‑high - case studies, group projects | 4 years | Retail manager, operations coordinator |
| General Studies (Liberal Arts) | 120 | 3.2‑3.5 | High - flexible electives | 4 years | Non‑profit, customer service, entrepreneurship |
Choosing the Right Easy Degree for You
Even if a program looks "easy" on paper, it still needs to align with your personal goals. Ask yourself these three questions before you enroll:
- What is my end‑game? If you aim for a specific career, verify that employers recognize the credential. A General Studies BA may open doors in education, but a specialized certificate could be more valuable for digital marketing roles.
- How much time can I realistically commit? Part‑time students often spread 120 credit hours over five‑plus years, which can further reduce pressure.
- Is the institution accredited? Check regional accreditation (e.g., New Zealand's TEQSA, US regional bodies) to ensure the degree is respected.
Once you have answers, shortlist 2‑3 programs that meet your criteria and compare tuition, support services, and alumni outcomes.
Tips for Thriving in an Easy Degree
- Leverage asynchronous content: Download lecture videos, set a weekly study schedule, and treat it like a self‑paced job.
- Engage early with instructors: Even in low‑stress courses, asking clarifying questions can prevent simple mistakes that affect grades.
- Use campus resources: Many online programs offer tutoring, writing centers, and career counseling at no extra cost.
- Build a portfolio: Especially for certificates, showcase projects on LinkedIn or a personal site to prove skills to employers.
- Stay organized: Keep a spreadsheet of assignment due dates, credit requirements, and GPA goals.
Common Misconceptions About Easy Degrees
1. They’re worthless. While some employers prefer rigorous STEM degrees, many industries value soft skills, communication, and a proven ability to finish a program.
2. They guarantee high GPAs. Even the "easiest" programs require consistent effort; cramming will still lower your GPA.
3. All online degrees are cheap. Tuition varies widely. Accredited universities may charge similar rates to on‑campus programs, though financial aid is often available.
Quick Checklist Before Enrolling
- Verify accreditation (regional or national).
- Confirm credit hour requirement aligns with your time budget.
- Check average GPA data for the program (most schools publish this).
- Research post‑graduation employment rates.
- Identify available financial aid or scholarships.
- Plan a realistic study schedule (e.g., 5‑6 hours per week).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which degree requires the fewest credit hours?
An Associate's Degree in General Studies typically needs about 60 credit hours, making it the lightest full‑degree option.
Can an easy online degree lead to a high‑paying job?
Yes, especially in fields like digital marketing, project management, or business administration where practical experience and certifications carry weight.
Are there scholarships specifically for easy‑degree programs?
Many community colleges and online universities offer merit‑based or need‑based aid that isn’t tied to the difficulty of the program, so you can apply the same scholarships you would for any degree.
How do I ensure my easy degree is respected by employers?
Choose an accredited institution, maintain a GPA above 3.0, and supplement your studies with internships, freelance projects, or relevant certifications.
Is it possible to transfer credits from an easy degree to a more advanced program?
Many universities accept transfer credits from accredited associate or bachelor programs, especially if the courses match the destination curriculum. Always check the target school's articulation agreements.
