10 Easiest Bachelor's Degrees To Get

Updated on 9/24/2025

When people talk about the easiest bachelor's degree, it doesn't mean skipping the hard work altogether. Every program in higher education requires focus, exams, and plenty of coursework. However, compared to fields like engineering or computer science, some college majors are often considered easier because they focus on writing, discussion, or critical thinking rather than advanced math or lab work.

The easiest degree to get often comes from areas such as liberal arts, communications, or general studies, where you can choose from flexible electives and online formats. Many online bachelor's programs are even self-paced, giving you more control over your schedule. These degrees can still lead to strong career opportunities in areas such as business administration, criminal justice, or social work - making them practical choices for students who want a college degree in less time.

What Makes a Bachelor's Degree Easy?

The idea of an ''easy'' degree is always relative. Every bachelor's degree program requires time, effort, and dedication.

Still, some are considered easier because of lighter general education or math requirements, more flexible electives, or the option to complete courses online. These factors don't make the degree less valuable, but they may make it more manageable depending on your strengths and goals.

Here are a few things that can make certain college majors feel easier than others:

• Fewer math and science requirements: Degrees that avoid advanced calculus, lab-heavy science, or highly technical training are often more approachable for students who prefer reading, writing, or discussion-based learning.
• Flexible electives: Majors like liberal arts and general studies let you choose electives that match your interests, making it easier to stay engaged and succeed.
• Online and hybrid availability: Programs widely offered through online colleges or self-paced formats work well for students balancing jobs, families, or other responsibilities.
• Accelerated formats: Some majors can be completed more quickly through accelerated pathways, transfer-friendly policies, or year-round enrollment, helping you finish in less time.
• Transfer-friendly structures: Fields of study that accept a large number of transfer credits, like communications or general studies, can shorten the path to graduation.
• Direct career pathways: Majors that lead directly to career opportunities--such as criminal justice, education, or business administration--may feel easier since they prepare you for entry-level jobs without needing an advanced degree first.

10 Easiest Bachelor's Degrees You Can Earn

Compared to highly technical majors like engineering or pre-med, some programs are often seen as more approachable. These degrees typically feature flexible coursework, fewer lab or math requirements, and strong availability through online bachelor's programs. While they may be considered the easiest college majors, they can still lead to valuable career paths in education, business, social services, and more.

1. Bachelor's in Liberal Studies

A bachelor's degree in liberal studies is one of the most flexible options in higher education. Students complete broad general education classes in areas such as humanities, social sciences, and writing, while choosing electives that align with their interests or career goals.

The lack of rigid prerequisites makes this program appealing to those who want a personalized learning experience. It's also widely available as an online bachelor's degree, often in a self-paced format that's ideal for working adults. Graduates often pursue careers in human resources, education support, or move on to an advanced degree in specialized fields.

2. Bachelor's in English

An English degree is a strong fit for students who enjoy reading, writing, and analysis. Instead of heavy science labs or technical training, the focus is on literature, composition, and communication skills. Many programs allow students to explore electives like creative writing, linguistics, or cultural studies.

Because the coursework focuses on essays and projects over exams, it's often seen as one of the easiest bachelor's degrees, and English majors are commonly listed in degree rankings of accessible programs. Graduates can pursue roles in publishing, public relations, education, or continue into graduate-level study in English or related fields.

3. Bachelor's in Communications

Communications is another program frequently ranked among the easiest college majors because of its practical and straightforward coursework. Enrollees study media, journalism, advertising, and organizational communication, all centered on building strong writing and speaking abilities.

Often, programs offer online and hybrid formats, with opportunities for hands-on projects like public speaking or digital media campaigns. Career paths include public relations, marketing, broadcasting, or human resources, all of which value strong interpersonal and presentation skills.

4. Bachelor's in Psychology

Psychology is often considered an approachable program because much of the coursework focuses on human behavior, social interaction, and mental processes rather than advanced math or lab-heavy science. Students take classes in developmental psychology, mental health, and counseling basics, along with electives in areas like social psychology or abnormal psychology.

While advanced roles such as counseling or therapy require a master's degree or higher, the bachelor's level can prepare you for entry-level jobs in human services, education support, or research assistance. Many graduates also transition into fields such as social work or case management.

5. Bachelor's in Education

Education degrees are structured and straightforward, making them manageable for many students. Programs teach pedagogy, classroom management, and lesson planning, with prerequisite courses in child development and general education subjects. Students also gain hands-on experience through supervised classroom observations and teaching practicums.

These programs lead directly to teaching certification in areas like early childhood education or special education, providing a clear career pathway. Graduates often pursue careers as high school teachers, elementary teachers, or education specialists, helping them move directly from nursing school to the classroom.

6. Bachelor's in Criminal Justice

Criminal justice is one of the easiest degrees to get for students interested in law, order, and community safety. The program typically covers topics like criminology, corrections, and law enforcement, without requiring advanced calculus or intensive lab science.

Many schools also offer online bachelor's degrees in criminal justice, making it easier for working adults to fit classes into their schedules. Graduates can pursue real-world career opportunities in probation, corrections, or local and federal agencies, and some move on to roles in social work or further study in legal fields.

7. Bachelor's in Business Administration

A business administration degree is widely considered one of the easiest bachelor's degrees because of its broad curriculum and flexible structure. Coursework usually includes management, marketing, and finance, with many programs offering online or accelerated formats. Students also develop valuable skills like problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills, which are highly transferable across industries.

Career paths range from human resources and healthcare administration to sales, management, or entrepreneurship. For those interested in advanced roles, a bachelor's degree in business is also a strong stepping stone to an MBA or other advanced degree programs.

8. Bachelor's in Sociology

Sociology programs appeal to students who prefer research and writing over lab work or technical training. Coursework explores human behavior, social structures, and cultural dynamics, often through essays and group projects instead of exams. Many programs also integrate electives in anthropology, religious studies, or other humanities subjects.

Because of its flexibility, sociology is often ranked among the easiest college majors. Career options include roles in community outreach, social work support services, and public policy - with opportunities to advance into graduate study for more specialized paths. Students with a strong GPA in this field of study may also be more competitive for graduate school or specialized certifications.

9. Bachelor's in Health Science (Non-Clinical)

Non-clinical health science programs focus on the administrative and policy side of healthcare, not direct patient care. Students take classes in healthcare administration, public health, and health promotion, which require less intensive lab work than clinical programs, such as nursing or BSN tracks.

These programs are often available through online bachelor's programs, making them a flexible option for working adults. Graduates find jobs in healthcare management, insurance, or community health organizations, and some go on to earn an advanced degree in public health or nursing practice.

10. Bachelor's in General Studies

A general studies degree is one of the most flexible and transfer-friendly programs in higher education. Students can apply a wide range of transfer credits and select electives from different fields of study, including liberal arts, social sciences, and even introductory business courses.

Because of this adaptability, general studies is often seen as one of the easiest bachelor's degrees to complete, especially for adults with prior work experience or previous college enrollment. Graduates gain a broad skill set in writing, research, and critical thinking, which can support career growth in administration, sales, or preparation for an advanced degree.

What Is the Quickest Bachelor's Degree To Get?

Most bachelor's degrees take about four years to finish, but some programs can be completed in less time. Accelerated pathways and online colleges often allow students to graduate in two to three years, especially if they bring in transfer credits from previous studies.

The easiest bachelor's degrees, such as communications, business administration, or general studies, are often the most flexible, with options for year-round courses or self-paced online formats. Many of these degrees are also considered in demand, which means they can open doors to career paths more quickly after graduation.

What Is the Average Cost of the Easiest Bachelor's Degree Program?

The cost of a bachelor's degree depends on the type of school and whether you attend in person or online. Public in-state universities usually cost around $10,000 to $12,000 per year, while public out-of-state schools average $27,000 or more. Private universities are the most expensive, often $38,000 or higher each year.

Students who choose online bachelor's degrees may save money, since tuition at online colleges and transfer-friendly universities often averages $300 to $500 per credit. Some of the easiest bachelor's degrees are widely available at affordable state schools and online programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and even employer tuition assistance can also help lower the overall cost of your education.

FAQs About the Easiest College Majors

If you're looking into the easiest college majors, you probably want to know how they stack up in terms of cost, flexibility, and career value. Here are some common questions students ask.

What Bachelor's Degrees Pay Well and Are Easy?

Some of the most practical choices are business administration, health science (non-clinical), and criminal justice. These programs combine accessible coursework with strong career opportunities. Graduates may work in management, law enforcement, or healthcare organizations, often earning a solid average salary without needing an advanced degree right away.

Can FAFSA Support Help Fund My Easy Online Bachelor's Degree?

Yes, accredited online bachelor's degrees are eligible for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To qualify, students must enroll in an accredited institution, meet the eligibility requirements, and complete the FAFSA form each year. Aid can include grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs to help manage college costs.

Which Bachelor's Degree Has the Highest Graduation Rate?

Programs in education, health science, and business often report higher graduation rates compared to more technical majors such as engineering or computer science. Graduation rates vary by school and program, but factors like flexible schedules, strong support services, and transfer-friendly structures all play a role in helping students complete their degrees.

Can I Earn an Easy Bachelor's Degree Fully Online?

Yes, many of the easiest bachelor's degrees, including communications, psychology, and general studies, are widely available through accredited online colleges. These programs often feature self-paced formats, making them especially appealing to working adults or students balancing family and school responsibilities.

Are General Studies Degrees Worth It?

For many students, a general studies degree is flexible, transfer-friendly, and among the easiest degrees to get. It can be completed faster if you already have transfer credit, and it can help you develop a broad skill set in writing, research, and analysis. However, some students may combine it with a certificate, specialized training, or an advanced degree to open more career paths.

Explore Easy Online College Majors

The right degree should balance ease with long-term value. Explore accessible programs like liberal studies, psychology, or business administration on Learn.org to find an option that fits your strengths, timeline, and career goals.