Easiest Online Degrees for Shift Workers 2026

Working nights, rotating shifts, or long stretches of irregular hours can make traditional college schedules nearly impossible. When your workday might start at midnight or change week to week, fixed class times and rigid deadlines quickly become a dealbreaker. Many shift workers worry that school will only add stress to an already demanding routine.

Fortunately, some online degrees are designed with nontraditional schedules in mind. These programs prioritize asynchronous access, self-paced coursework, and flexible deadlines that let you study when your energy and availability line up. Below, we’ll explore online degrees that tend to work especially well for shift workers, starting with flexible associate-level options.

Online Degrees That Work Well for Shift Workers

The degree options below are known for accommodating overnight hours, rotating schedules, and unpredictable workweeks. These programs allow you to make steady progress without requiring you to be online at specific times.

1. Associate Degree in General Studies

An associate degree in general studies is one of the most adaptable options for shift workers. These programs offer broad coursework across subjects like communication, social science, and humanities, allowing you to avoid rigid sequencing or time-sensitive classes. Because the degree is customizable, you can often choose courses that are fully asynchronous and low pressure.

Many online general studies programs are intentionally built for adult learners with changing schedules. Self-paced formats, consistent deadlines, and limited group work make it easier to complete assignments during off-hours or on days off. This flexibility makes the degree a strong choice if your shifts rotate or your availability changes frequently.

Program duration: 12 to 24 months

Universities that offer an online associate degree in general studies:

• Louisiana State University Eunice: Online associate degree in general studies
• Western Governors University: Online associate degree in general studies
• University of Maryland Global Campus: Online associate degree in general studies
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online associate degree in general studies
• Ashworth College: Online associate degree in general studies

2. Associate Degree in Health Information Technology

An associate degree in health information technology is a strong option for shift workers in healthcare or administrative roles who need maximum schedule flexibility. These programs focus on managing electronic health records, medical coding basics, data privacy, and health systems operations. Coursework is typically structured around modules, quizzes, and applied tasks rather than live classes or fixed lab times.

Many online health information technology programs are intentionally designed for nontraditional schedules. Asynchronous lessons, “arranged” course formats, and on-demand assessments allow you to study during overnight hours or between shifts. Some programs also align coursework with industry certifications, which can help you progress efficiently without adding extra study time.

Program duration: 18 to 24 months

Universities that offer an online associate degree in health information technology:

• Davenport University: Online associate degree in health information technology
• Rasmussen University: Online associate degree in health information technology
• Hutchinson Community College: Online associate degree in health information technology
• DeVry University: Online associate degree in health information technology
• Fisher College: Online associate degree in health information technology

3. Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems

A bachelor’s degree in information systems is a strong fit for shift workers who want a technology-focused degree without rigid schedules. These programs blend IT skills with business concepts such as systems analysis, data management, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Coursework is usually delivered asynchronously through recorded lectures, labs, and exams rather than live class meetings.

Many online information systems programs are intentionally designed for students with unpredictable availability. Self-paced or competency-based options allow you to make progress during overnight hours or on days off, while short-term sessions help prevent burnout during demanding work stretches. For shift workers who already have technical experience, the ability to test out of familiar material can significantly reduce time spent studying.

Program duration: 18 months to 4 years

Universities that offer an online bachelor’s degree in information systems:

• Western Governors University: Online bachelor’s degree in information systems
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online bachelor’s degree in information systems
• University of Maryland Global Campus: Online bachelor’s degree in information systems
• Liberty University: Online bachelor’s degree in information systems
• Arizona State University: Online bachelor’s degree in information systems

4. Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences

A bachelor’s degree in health sciences can be an excellent option for shift workers in healthcare or related fields. These programs focus on healthcare systems, population health, policy, and applied science concepts rather than rigid clinical schedules. Coursework is typically delivered through recorded lectures, projects, and assessments that can be completed outside traditional business hours.

Many online health sciences programs are built specifically for working professionals with irregular schedules. Asynchronous delivery allows you to study after overnight shifts or during off days, while competency-based or accelerated formats help you move faster through material you already know. Project-based grading can also be easier to manage when you are balancing long shifts and unpredictable sleep patterns.

Program duration: 18 months to 4 years

Universities that offer an online bachelor’s degree in health sciences:

• Western Governors University: Online bachelor’s degree in health sciences
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online bachelor’s degree in health sciences
• Arizona State University: Online bachelor’s degree in health sciences
• The Ohio State University: Online bachelor’s degree in health sciences
• Louisiana State University Alexandria: Online bachelor’s degree in health sciences

5. Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is a natural fit for shift workers, especially those already working in law enforcement, security, corrections, or emergency services. These programs focus on criminal law, procedures, ethics, investigations, and public policy rather than lab work or live class sessions. Coursework is typically structured around readings, case analysis, projects, and exams that can be completed on your own schedule.

Many online criminal justice programs are intentionally built for professionals with rotating or on-call shifts. Asynchronous formats, short terms, and frequent start dates make it easier to fit school around night shifts or extended workweeks. Some programs also offer generous credit for prior training or academy experience, which can significantly reduce both time to completion and weekly workload.

Program duration: 15 months to 4 years

Universities that offer an online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice:

• University of Maryland Global Campus: Online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice
• Colorado State University Global: Online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice
• Walden University: Online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice
• Trine University: Online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice
• San Diego State University Global Campus: Online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice

6. Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration

A bachelor’s degree in public administration is a strong option for shift workers employed in government, public safety, or nonprofit roles. These programs focus on public policy, budgeting, organizational leadership, and ethics rather than labs or time-sensitive coursework. Assignments are often project-based, such as policy briefs or case analyses, which can be completed during off-hours or on days off.

Many online public administration programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Asynchronous formats, accelerated terms, and predictable weekly deadlines make it easier to plan school around rotating shifts. Some programs also offer significant credit for prior training or public service experience, which can shorten the degree timeline and reduce overall workload.

Program duration: 16 months to 4 years

Universities that offer an online bachelor’s degree in public administration:

• Southern New Hampshire University: Online bachelor’s degree in public administration
• Point Loma Nazarene University: Online bachelor’s degree in public administration
• Liberty University: Online bachelor’s degree in public administration
• Texas State University: Online bachelor’s degree in public administration
• Neumann University: Online bachelor’s degree in public administration

What Shift Workers Should Look for in an Online Degree

When you work nights, weekends, or rotating shifts, flexibility is non-negotiable. Online degrees that work best for shift workers are designed to let you log in and make progress whenever your energy and availability line up. Instead of fixed class times, these programs offer access to coursework around the clock.

Key features to look for include asynchronous classes, limited group work, and predictable deadlines. Programs that allow self-pacing or competency-based progression can be especially helpful, since they let you move faster during lighter work periods and slow down when shifts become demanding.

Program Features That Support Nontraditional Schedules

Understanding how a program is structured can help you avoid unnecessary stress. Degrees that are easier for shift workers often rely on learning formats that prioritize autonomy and consistency.

Asynchronous Access and 24/7 Platforms

Asynchronous programs allow you to complete coursework at any hour, whether that is early morning, late at night, or between shifts. Access to course materials and support services at all times makes it easier to stay engaged without sacrificing sleep.

Self-Paced and Competency-Based Learning

Self-paced and competency-based programs allow you to complete classes by demonstrating mastery rather than following a strict calendar. This flexibility is especially valuable for workers with rotating schedules or unpredictable workloads.

Accelerated Terms With Clear Structure

Shorter terms, such as seven- or eight-week sessions, help you focus on fewer subjects at a time. When deadlines follow a consistent weekly rhythm, it becomes easier to plan schoolwork around changing shifts.

Tips for Balancing Online School With Shift Work

Balancing school with shift work starts with being realistic about your time and energy. Taking one course at a time can help prevent burnout, especially when you are adjusting to overnight or rotating schedules.

It also helps to build study time around your natural energy peaks rather than forcing a traditional routine. Communicating with instructors early and using academic support services can make it easier to stay on track when your work schedule changes unexpectedly.

FAQs About Online Degrees for Shift Workers

Shift work creates unique challenges when it comes to scheduling, energy, and consistency. The FAQs below address common concerns to help you decide whether an online degree can realistically fit around nontraditional work hours.

Are Online Degrees Flexible Enough for Night and Rotating Shifts?

Many online degrees are built specifically for students with nontraditional schedules. Asynchronous courses allow you to log in and complete work at any hour, whether that is after a night shift, early in the morning, or on days off.

Programs that avoid live lectures and group meetings tend to work best for shift workers. Reviewing course formats in advance can help ensure you will not be required to attend sessions during working hours.

How Much Time Should Shift Workers Plan to Spend on Coursework?

Most online programs recommend about 10 to 15 hours per week per course. For shift workers, that time may be spread unevenly across the week depending on work demands and energy levels.

Taking one course at a time is often the most sustainable approach. Programs with self-paced or competency-based options can also help you adjust your workload during weeks with heavier or overnight shifts.

Do Colleges Offer Support Specifically for Shift Workers?

Many online programs offer academic advising, tutoring, and technical support outside of standard business hours. Access to help late at night or early in the morning can make a big difference for students who work nontraditional schedules.

Some schools also assign success coaches or mentors who understand the challenges of working adults. These resources can provide guidance and accountability without adding pressure to your schedule.

Explore Online Degrees That Fit a Shift Work Schedule

Working shifts does not have to stop you from earning a degree. Visit Learn.org to explore accredited online programs designed for flexibility and compare options that fit your schedule, career goals, and lifestyle.