Easiest Online Degrees With Minimal Group Work 2026

Group projects are one of the most common pain points in online learning, especially for busy adults. Coordinating schedules across time zones, relying on others to meet deadlines, and managing uneven participation can add stress that has little to do with the coursework itself. For many students, this kind of collaboration makes an otherwise manageable class feel unnecessarily complicated.

The good news is that some online degrees are intentionally designed around independent learning. These programs rely primarily on individual assignments, papers, exams, or competency assessments, which allows you to work on your own schedule without waiting on classmates. Below, we’ll explore online degree options that are commonly considered easier because they involve minimal group work.

Online Degrees That Typically Involve Minimal Group Work

Certain degree types are more likely to prioritize individual performance over collaboration. These programs often focus on independent study, written analysis, or mastery-based assessments, making them a strong fit for students who prefer working alone.

1. Associate Degree in General Studies or Liberal Arts

An associate degree in general studies or liberal arts is often one of the easiest options for students who want to avoid group projects. Coursework usually emphasizes individual writing assignments, quizzes, and exams rather than team-based presentations or collaborative research. Because the curriculum is broad and foundational, instructors can assess learning outcomes without relying on group activities.

Many online programs in this category are also designed for adult learners who value autonomy. Self-paced formats, asynchronous coursework, and advisor-guided course selection allow you to focus on your own progress. For students who want full accountability for their grades without depending on others, this degree offers a straightforward and independent learning experience.

Program duration: 1.5 to 2 years (self-paced options may vary)

Universities that offer online associate degrees in general studies or liberal arts:

• University of Wisconsin: Online associate degree through the Flexible Option
• Louisiana State University Eunice: Online associate degree in general studies
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online associate degree in liberal arts
• West Virginia University: Online associate degree in general studies
• University of Toledo: Online associate degree in general studies

2. Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology

Information technology degrees are often well suited for students who want to avoid group work because the field lends itself to individual skill assessment. Coursework typically focuses on problem-solving, systems configuration, programming basics, and troubleshooting, all of which can be evaluated through solo exams, labs, or projects. As a result, collaboration is rarely required to demonstrate competency.

Many online IT programs are intentionally structured around independent learning. Competency-based models, virtual labs, and one-course-at-a-time formats allow you to progress on your own timeline without coordinating with a group. For students who prefer full control over their work and grades, IT degrees often provide one of the most independent online learning experiences available.

Program duration: 1.5 to 3 years (can be shorter in competency-based formats)

Universities that offer online information technology degrees:

• Western Governors University: Online bachelor’s degree in information technology
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online associate degree in information technologies
• University of Massachusetts Lowell: Online associate degree in information technology
• Capella University: Online associate degree in information technology
• Keiser University: Online associate degree in information technology

3. Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies or Interdisciplinary Studies

A bachelor’s degree in liberal studies or interdisciplinary studies is often one of the best options for students who want to minimize group work. These programs typically rely on individual papers, guided readings, exams, and capstone projects rather than team-based assignments. Because the curriculum is broad and customizable, instructors can assess learning outcomes without requiring collaboration.

Many online programs in this category are designed specifically for adult learners who prefer autonomy. Self-paced models, guided study options, and portfolio-based assessments allow you to work independently while still meeting academic requirements. For students who want full ownership of their grades and progress, this degree type offers a highly individualized learning experience.

Program duration: 1 to 4 years (can be shorter with transfer credit or self-paced formats)

Universities that offer online bachelor’s degrees in liberal or interdisciplinary studies:

• Capella University: Online bachelor’s degree in liberal studies (FlexPath)
• Thomas Edison State University: Online bachelor’s degree in liberal studies
• University of Toledo: Online bachelor’s degree in liberal studies
• University of Maine at Presque Isle: Online bachelor’s degree in liberal studies (YourPace)
• University of Massachusetts Global: Online bachelor’s degree in applied studies or liberal arts

4. Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership

A bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership is often a strong fit for students who prefer to work independently. Coursework in this field typically centers on leadership theory, communication, ethics, and decision-making, which can be assessed through individual papers, case studies, and reflective projects rather than group presentations. Because the learning outcomes are personal and applied, collaboration is rarely required.

Many online organizational leadership programs are intentionally built for adult learners who want full control over their progress. Competency-based tracks, self-paced formats, and milestone-driven courses allow you to complete work on your own timeline without coordinating schedules or relying on peer contributions. For students who want accountability without group dynamics, this degree offers a largely independent path.

Program duration: 2 to 4 years (can be shorter in competency-based or self-paced formats)

Universities that offer online bachelor’s degrees in organizational leadership:

• Western Governors University: Online bachelor’s degree in business management
• Northern Arizona University: Online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership (Personalized Learning)
• University of Massachusetts Global: Online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership (MyPath)
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online bachelor’s degree in business administration with an organizational leadership focus
• Texas Tech University: Online bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership

5. Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (Non-Clinical)

A non-clinical bachelor’s degree in psychology is often a good choice for students who want to minimize group work. These programs typically focus on theory, research methods, statistics, and applied psychology topics that can be evaluated through individual papers, exams, and projects. Because there are no labs, clinical placements, or team-based experiments, collaboration is usually limited or optional.

Many online psychology programs are intentionally designed around independent progress. Self-paced and subscription-based formats remove the need for synchronized cohorts, which eliminates group assignments altogether. For students who prefer to work quietly and independently, this degree offers a structured but largely solo learning experience.

Program duration: 1.5 to 4 years (can be shorter with self-paced or subscription formats)

Universities that offer online bachelor’s degrees in psychology:

• Capella University: Online bachelor’s degree in psychology (FlexPath)
• University of Maine at Presque Isle: Online bachelor’s degree in psychology (YourPace)
• Walden University: Online bachelor’s degree in psychology (Tempo Learning)
• Texas Tech University: Online bachelor’s degree in psychology
• Southern New Hampshire University: Online bachelor’s degree in psychology

6. Competency-Based or Subscription-Based Degree Programs

Competency-based and subscription-based degree programs are often the best option for students who want to avoid group work entirely. These programs are built around individual mastery, meaning you progress by completing your own exams, papers, or projects rather than participating in shared assignments. Because students move at different speeds, group projects are not practical and are usually not included at all.

In these formats, you are evaluated solely on your personal understanding of the material. There are no coordinated deadlines, team deliverables, or peer grading components, which gives you full control over both your schedule and your outcomes. For students who prefer to work independently from start to finish, this model offers the most straightforward and self-directed experience.

Program duration: As few as 6 months to 2 years, depending on pacing and prior experience

Universities that offer competency-based or subscription-based online programs:

• Western Governors University: Competency-based degree programs
• Capella University: FlexPath competency-based degree programs
• University of Maine at Presque Isle: YourPace self-paced degree programs
• University of Massachusetts Global: MyPath subscription-based degree programs
• University of Wisconsin: Flexible Option competency-based degree programs

Why Some Online Degrees Minimize Group Work

Group projects are not a requirement for academic quality, especially in online education. Many programs intentionally minimize or eliminate group work because it can be difficult to manage in asynchronous environments where students have different schedules, time zones, and pacing needs.

For adult-focused online programs, individual accountability is often a better measure of learning. Solo assessments make it easier for instructors to evaluate each student’s understanding without the variables that come with shared work.

Independent Learning Models in Online Education

Programs designed for independent learning rely on papers, exams, projects, portfolios, or competency assessments completed individually. This structure ensures that your grade reflects your own effort and understanding rather than the performance of a group.

Independent models are especially common in self-paced and competency-based programs. Since students move through material at different speeds, collaboration is impractical and therefore avoided.

How Accreditation and Assessment Play a Role

Accredited institutions must clearly document how learning outcomes are measured. Individual assignments make this process more straightforward, which is one reason many online programs favor solo work over collaboration.

This approach benefits students who value clarity and fairness. Your progress and final grade are determined entirely by your own performance.

How to Confirm a Program Has Minimal Group Work

Not all online programs advertise their approach to group work clearly. Taking a few extra steps before enrolling can help you avoid surprises later.

What to Look for in Course Descriptions

Course descriptions that emphasize “independent projects,” “individual assessments,” or “self-paced study” are good indicators. Mentions of competency-based learning or portfolio assessments also suggest limited collaboration.

If a course description highlights presentations, team research, or collaborative case studies, group work is more likely to be involved. Reviewing syllabi samples can provide additional clarity.

Questions to Ask Admissions or Advisors

Admissions counselors can often tell you how frequently group work appears in a program. Asking whether group projects are required, optional, or limited to specific courses can help you make an informed decision.

You can also ask whether alternative assignments are available. Some programs allow students to complete solo projects instead of group work when possible.

FAQs About Online Degrees With Minimal Group Work

Many students actively seek programs that emphasize independent work. These FAQs address common questions about how group work fits into online degree programs and what you can realistically expect.

Are Discussion Boards Considered Group Work?

Discussion boards are typically not considered group work because your grade is based entirely on your individual responses. While you may reply to classmates, you are not responsible for coordinating schedules, dividing tasks, or producing a shared final product.

In most online programs, discussion posts function more like short reflection assignments. You engage with ideas independently, and your performance is evaluated on clarity, critical thinking, and completion rather than collaboration.

Do Employers Care if My Degree Had Group Projects?

Employers generally do not ask whether your degree included group projects, especially for online programs. What matters most is that the degree is accredited and that you gained relevant skills related to the role you are pursuing.

Completing a largely independent online degree can actually signal strong self-motivation and time management. Those qualities are often viewed as assets, particularly for remote or self-directed work environments.

Can I Avoid Group Work Entirely in an Online Degree?

In many programs, especially competency-based or self-paced models, it is possible to avoid group work altogether. These degrees rely on individual exams, papers, portfolios, or assessments rather than collaborative assignments.

That said, policies vary by school and program. Reviewing course descriptions or asking an advisor directly can help confirm whether any required courses include group-based components.

Find a Degree That Lets You Work Independently

If group projects add unnecessary stress to your learning experience, choosing an online degree with minimal collaboration can make a meaningful difference. To compare accredited programs that prioritize independent work and flexible learning models, explore online degree options and guidance available through Learn.org.

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