Online Degrees with Big Earning Opportunities

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The question has probably crossed your mind if you've spent any amount of time browsing the vast number of online degrees described on DegreesFinder.com: which online degree will give me an opportunity to earn the highest salary?

It makes sense to look for online degrees with big earning opportunities if the only issue you are looking at is financial stability. But keep in mind that there may be better criteria to use when deciding on your college degree. Your degree should be in a subject you consider interesting enough to spend significant time studying and mastering. Ideally, it should be in an area in which you already excel-something that you personally find meaningful.

However, if subject matter or area of expertise is of less concern to you and you're more interested in finding the online degrees that could yield the biggest average salaries, then we present you with the top 4 online degrees with big earning opportunities:

Bachelor in Information Technology/Software Engineering
Title: Computer Programmer
Average Annual Salary: $ 70,270
Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

This program gives you the knowledge and skills to apply information technology theory and principles to business opportunities and challenges. The bachelor's degree in I.T. encompasses everything from systems analysis and design, to computer programming, databases, networks, security, and even project planning. But it is the program's specialization, Software Engineering, which could command higher pay. Why? Companies need geniuses who can develop software applications that answer business needs.

Find out more about the Bachelor in Information Technology/Software Engineering degree.

Advanced Degrees in Education Administration
Title: Assistant Principal in Senior High School
Average Annual Salary: $ 79,391
Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Education administration is another online course that could command a high starting salary. Graduates with advanced education administration degrees could be on their way to becoming school administrators, district supervisors or managers in the business world or in organizations such as the military. If educational supervision sounds like your kind of thing, then consider a Master in Education/Administration & Supervision or a Master in Education - Leadership in Educational Administration, or even a PhD in Education - Leadership in Educational Administration

Advanced Masters in Physician Assistant Studies
Title: Physician Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $$81,230
Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Who knew that assistants could earn as much as that? Well, if you have a Master's Degree in Physician Assistant Studies, you could be on your way to a paycheck in that range. This master's degree allows you to choose one of three areas of concentration--education and leadership, clinical medicine, or forensic medicine. The end result could be that you become a well-seasoned professional who can practice in varied clinical and administrative settings.

Bachelor in Business - Finance
Title: Financial Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $ 73,150
Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Finally, finance degrees offer a wide starting salary range. You could work toward a bachelor's degree in business with a concentration in finance, or a bachelor of arts degree combining both accounting and finance. The end result is training in a variety of fields relating to financial concepts, including investments, banking, insurance, and of course business. If you love math and the idea of managing the finances of a company excites you, this could be the ticket to a great starting salary.

Find out more about the Bachelor in Business/Finance degree or the Bachelor (BBA) - Accounting & Finance degree