Top 10 Easiest Degrees That Pay Well for Global Students

You’re looking to study abroad, but you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew? The pressure of choosing the right degree can be overwhelming. You’re probably thinking: “What’s the point of an education if I’m drowning in stress?” But it’s possible to pursue an easy degree that also pays well. Yes, you can have it both ways! 

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top 10 easiest degrees that pay well, degrees that not only let you breathe easy but also open doors to financially rewarding careers. 

10 Easiest Degrees Worth Pursuing: At A Glance

Choosing one of the easiest degrees doesn’t mean you’re taking the “easy way out.” It means you’re making a smart, practical choice that suits your strengths. Yes, even easy degrees that pay well need effort, but with the right mindset, they’re manageable and rewarding. You’ll still need to show up, study smart, and stay consistent. 

1. Nursing:

Nursing is one of those rare degrees where you learn by doing. Most universities abroad offer hands-on training throughout the course. This means you won’t just be stuck in theory-heavy lectures. You’ll apply what you learn right away, making concepts easier to grasp.

Academic Entry and Study Format

Unlike engineering or medicine, nursing doesn’t ask for complex entrance exams. If you’ve completed your 12th with biology, you’re often eligible. The curriculum is well-structured, with a mix of practicals, simulations, and internships. You’ll know exactly what’s expected from you, and you can plan your studies around that.

You can start with a bachelor’s degree and climb the ladder with short certifications. There’s scope to specialise, shift into hospital management, or even move into teaching later.

Career Prospects

There’s a strong global demand for nurses, especially in countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US. That means your chances of getting placed after graduation are high. It also opens doors to working visas and permanent residency.

Entry-level nurses earn between $50,000 and $70,000 a year, depending on the country. If you specialise as a Certified Registered Anaesthetic Nurse, salaries can go up to $200,000. That’s a strong return for one of the easiest degrees you can study abroad.

Thus, if you’re looking for easy degrees that pay well, nursing deserves serious consideration. It’s practical, in demand, and lets you build a career with both purpose and a steady paycheck.

2. Business Studies:

Business Studies focuses more on real-world logic than dense theory. If you’re curious about how companies run or how markets work, you’ll find this course engaging. The concepts are straightforward and build on basic reasoning and observation. That’s what makes it one of the easiest degrees for international students.

Academic Entry and Study Format

Getting into a business program abroad is relatively easy. Most universities look for decent academic scores and basic English proficiency. The course itself is structured around case studies, presentations, group work, and simulations. You’ll spend more time understanding how businesses actually operate.

The degree doesn’t box you in. You can choose to specialise in marketing, HR, finance, or even entrepreneurship. There’s also flexibility to pivot into an MBA later. With experience, you can move into leadership roles or even start your own business.

Career Prospects

A business degree opens up opportunities across sectors, from tech and finance to retail and hospitality. Employers abroad value graduates who understand both strategy and people. Whether you want to work in a startup or a global firm, you’ll have options.

Entry-level salaries range between $49,000 and $68,500 per year, depending on your specialisation and the country you work in. Sales, finance, and HR roles often offer performance bonuses, making this one of the easiest degrees that pay well over time.

3. English Literature:

English Literature won’t feel like work if you enjoy reading and writing. The ideas are accessible, and there’s room for interpretation. Most of the course involves essays, discussions, and critical thinking, not heavy technical theory. That’s why it’s one of the easiest degrees for international students who want academic comfort with creative scope.

Academic Entry and Study Format

Getting into an English Literature programme abroad is pretty simple. You’ll need decent grades and language proficiency. The degree is often coursework-based, with essays replacing tough exams. Many universities offer flexible schedules, including part-time and online options.

Career Prospects

Graduates in English Literature land jobs across publishing, marketing, digital content, education, and journalism. It suits those who can think clearly, write well, and meet deadlines. You can work in agencies, companies, media houses, or freelance on your own terms.

You can start as a writer or editor and move into strategy, brand communications, or content leadership. Many graduates also enter teaching or academic roles. With time, your writing can become your biggest asset.

Starting salaries typically range from $43,000 to $87,000 per year. Content development, corporate communications, and editing roles often pay well and offer stable growth. This one ticks both boxes if you’re looking for easy degrees that pay well.

4. Psychology:

Psychology is rooted in human behaviour — something you already observe daily. This course will feel natural if you’re curious about what makes people tick. It’s one of the easiest degrees for students who prefer real-life examples over theoretical memorisation. You’ll study theories, research patterns, and apply your insights to real-world situations.

Academic Entry and Study Format

The course involves essays, case studies, and light research work. Some modules include statistics, but nothing too complex. Most students find the reading material relatable and engaging. Admission is straightforward in most global universities if you meet the language and academic requirements.

Career Prospects

You can grow as a therapist, HR consultant, or behavioural analyst. With more experience or further study, you can specialise in areas like child psychology or clinical counselling. The field values strong communication and problem-solving skills, not just academic knowledge.

You can earn between $59,000 and $123,000 per year. Roles in corporate training, counselling, and organisational behaviour often pay well. 

Psychology is ideal for students who enjoy observing people and asking why. It’s not just theory — it’s practical and deeply relevant. If you want an interesting and impactful degree, psychology is worth your time.

5. Sociology:

Sociology is the study of people, communities, and how societies function. If you’re curious about how the world works socially, economically, and culturally, this degree might feel more like storytelling than study. It’s widely accepted as one of the easiest degrees due to its straightforward concepts and flexible learning style.

Academic Entry and Study Format

Most universities don’t ask for specific A-Levels to join a sociology course. The material involves reading, essay writing, and some data work. You’ll rarely deal with heavy calculations or technical subjects. This makes it a popular choice for students from all streams.

Career Prospects

Graduates work in social work, public policy, education, and even marketing. You can step into research roles, work with NGOs, or advise on public welfare. Some also move into politics or urban planning.

You can grow into roles like policy analyst, HR specialist, or social researcher. The field suits people who enjoy critical thinking and writing more than routine number crunching. Further study can help you move into academia or policy advisory positions.

Entry-level jobs start around $46,000 per year. With time and experience, salaries can grow steadily, especially in consultancy or government-backed roles. Sociology is among the many easy degrees that pay well, offering both flexibility and real-world relevance.

6. Linguistics:

Linguistics focuses on how language is structured, used, and understood. If you enjoy learning how words work and why people speak the way they do, you’ll likely find this course enjoyable and manageable. It’s one of the easiest degrees because it’s less about theory-heavy science and more about observation and analysis.

Academic Entry and Study Format

Most programmes don’t demand specific subjects or high cut-offs. You’ll explore phonetics, syntax, semantics, and language history. There’s no complex maths, little rote learning, and a fair bit of freedom in how you approach assignments. This course can feel natural if you’re bilingual or even mildly curious about language.

Career Prospects

Many linguistics grads work freelance or with international organisations. Some even support legal or healthcare teams as language experts. You can build specialisations in AI, voice recognition, or intercultural communication. With experience or a master’s degree, earnings and opportunities improve across both public and private sectors.

Starting salaries in translation and teaching roles typically fall between $45,000 and $60,000. Bilingual professionals with technical skills often earn more. Among the easy degrees that pay well, linguistics consistently leads to careers with global relevance.

7. Anthropology:

Anthropology is the study of humans, our history, evolution, and cultural development. It is fascinating and relatively easy to understand. Anthropology focuses on four main branches: archaeology, cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and linguistic anthropology. The concepts are approachable, and students often find it more engaging than technical or science-heavy degrees.

Academic Entry and Study Format

This degree typically doesn’t require high-level mathematics or complex laboratory work. Instead, you’ll study human cultures, traditions, and societal development. Most students find the content relatable, as it connects to real-world experiences, current events, and global issues. It’s one of those easiest degrees where the learning feels natural and engaging.

The field of anthropology offers continuous learning opportunities. With advanced qualifications, you could specialise in areas like forensic anthropology or cultural resource management. 

Career Prospects

Graduates often work in diverse fields. You could become an archaeologist, museum curator, or medical anthropologist. Some find roles in non-profit organisations, education, or international development. Anthropology also opens doors to research and consultancy, especially in areas related to social impact and cultural studies.

Salaries vary by role, but you can expect to earn between $50,000 to $80,000 annually. As an anthropologist, opportunities in government, research institutions, or museums are common, often leading to higher earnings as you gain experience. Easy degrees that pay well, like anthropology, also lead to high-paying roles in the cultural and academic sectors.

8. Communications:

A communications degree teaches you to share information clearly in person, via email, on social media, or through videos. This degree doesn’t require complex technical skills, making it one of the easiest degrees to pursue. Instead, you’ll focus on practical tasks like writing, public speaking, and media production, all of which are easy to learn and apply.

Academic Entry and Study Format

This degree involves studying how people communicate, including the influence of media and technology on society. Most of the coursework is based on theory and practical application. Assignments often involve creating content, giving presentations, or analysing media, which many students find engaging and manageable.

You can specialise in areas like media relations, corporate communications, or digital marketing.

Career Prospects

Graduates with a communications degree can pursue a wide range of careers. You might work as a brand manager, public relations specialist, or social media strategist. Some even go on to become journalists or content creators. 

Salaries for communications graduates start at around $40,000 annually. However, with experience and specialisation, roles like public relations manager and communications director offer salaries that can reach upwards of $130,000. If you aim for higher-paying jobs in this field, you can expect lucrative opportunities that grow with your experience.

9. Education:

A degree in education primarily prepares you for teaching. The coursework focuses on educational theory and practice, exploring how various factors, like culture and psychological influences, affect learning. Most of the programme is designed around group work, discussions, and practical placements, making it easier to engage with compared to more theory-heavy degrees. The focus on hands-on experience means fewer complex exams and research projects.

Academic Entry and Study Format

This degree involves studying subjects like teaching methods, child development, and educational psychology. Rather than diving deep into heavy academic theory, students engage in student teaching, usually lasting 12 to 16 weeks. During this period, you’ll gain real-world classroom experience, creating lesson plans, managing classrooms, and assessing student progress. The low entry requirements at universities make it a popular option for many students from diverse backgrounds.

You can specialise in areas like special education, early childhood education, or educational leadership. The more you specialise and gain experience, the higher your salary potential and career prospects.

Career Prospects

You can become a teacher at any level, from pre-K to high school, or you could teach adults or special needs students. Educational writing, curriculum development, or roles in academic administration are also excellent options. 

Salaries for education graduates vary depending on the role and location. Teachers can expect to start with a median salary of around $40,000 to $45,000 annually. However, as you gain more experience or move into specialised teaching roles, salaries can rise significantly. For example, adult education instructors or educational administrators often earn higher wages. The field offers long-term stability with opportunities for further advancement, making it one of the easiest degrees that pays well.

10. Art and Design:

Creativity is at the forefront of the art and design course. You’ll work on practical projects, like drawing, photography, and web design, rather than focusing on long essays or exams. 

Most of your time will be spent building portfolios, which can be more enjoyable and engaging. The hands-on nature of the course means less theoretical reading and more time to develop your craft, making it a relatively easy degree to manage.

Academic Entry and Study Format

This degree is perfect if you’re passionate about the arts but don’t want to be bogged down by heavy theory. Depending on your area of interest—Fine Art, Illustration, Photography, or Web Design—you’ll create projects that showcase your skills. 

The focus is largely on practical assignments, portfolio development, and creative problem-solving, which many students find more enjoyable than other academic degrees. You can study this degree both on campus and online, offering flexibility for students with different lifestyles.

You can expand your skills by learning new design software or exploring digital art. Many professionals choose to specialise in niche areas like 3D modelling, UX/UI design, or animation, which can increase earning potential.

Career Prospects

You could work as a graphic designer, photographer, or web designer. Other options include roles in branding, advertising, and animation. Art directors and creative leads often have higher earning potential as they progress in their careers. 

Salaries for Art and Design graduates can vary depending on the field. For example, a graphic designer can earn between $50,000 to $60,000 annually. More specialised roles, like art directors or senior designers, often earn well over $80,000 per year. While this career path can be competitive, there’s a high demand for skilled creatives, and the salary potential is strong, especially as you gain experience and build your portfolio.

Also Read:  6 Most Employable Degrees For Students In 2025

Choosing the Right Easiest Degree for You

Before committing to a degree, evaluating your preferences and future goals is essential. Here are a few points to consider when choosing the easiest degrees that also offer good pay:

• Is the subject something you enjoy?

Passion for your degree choice significantly affects how easy it feels. When you’re interested in the subject, staying engaged, focused, and motivated is easier.

• What skills and strengths do you have?

Your natural abilities can guide your decision. If you excel at communication, creativity, or organisation, these strengths could lead you toward easy degrees that pay well like communications, marketing, or art and design.

• Where do you see yourself in the future?

Consider the type of work you want to do. Do you prefer working with people or data? Would you enjoy a creative job or something more analytical? Your future career should align with your degree choice for long-term satisfaction and financial rewards.

• Which degree format suits you the best?

Think about the learning environment that fits your lifestyle. Online degrees offer flexibility, while traditional in-person learning might be ideal if you enjoy campus life and direct interaction. Choose a format that helps you balance your studies with other commitments.

Taking the time to reflect on these questions will help you identify an easy degree that not only matches your skills but also aligns with your aspirations.

Picking the easiest degrees that pay well doesn’t have to be a compromise. You can have an enjoyable study experience and still set yourself up for success. These degrees are the sweet spot between an easy ride and a lucrative career.

Once you’ve figured out your degree, UniAcco will be here to take care of your student accommodation needs. From convenient, student-friendly living spaces to affordable rent, we ensure your stay abroad is as smooth as your studies. 

FAQs

1. Should You Choose an “Easy” Degree?

When selecting a degree, it’s essential to consider more than just what’s considered “easy” overall. The easiest degrees may offer lower stress, but you should also think about your interests, passions, and career goals. You want a degree that not only fits your academic style but also aligns with your long-term aspirations, including potential earnings. 

2. What Are the Easiest and Most Useful Degrees?

Some of the easiest degrees that also provide great career opportunities include:

• Business Administration
• Human Resources
• English Literature
• Criminal Justice
• Marketing
• Psychology
• Communication

3. What Are the Least Difficult Majors to Pursue?

If you’re looking for the easiest degrees, some majors are considered less challenging while still offering rewarding career paths. These include:

• Business Administration
• Psychology
• English
• Education
• Communications

4. Are There Any Easiest Master’s Degrees That Pay Well?

There are several easiest master’s degrees that can lead to lucrative careers. Consider degrees like Human Resources, Communication, or Education. These programs offer manageable workloads while opening doors to well-paying jobs in various industries.

5. Can I Pursue Easiest Degrees Abroad?

Yes, many universities abroad offer easiest degrees that also promise career opportunities. Fields like English Literature, Psychology, and Business Administration are offered in a less challenging format but still hold significant value in the job market. 

6. How Do I Choose the Right Easy Degree That Pays Well?

When choosing an easy degree that pays well, consider both your interests and career goals. Think about industries with high job growth and salaries, such as marketing, communications, or business. Choosing a degree that aligns with your strengths can help ensure a fulfilling career path with a manageable academic workload.

Here are a few more articles to help guide you as you explore the best opportunities for studying abroad and beyond:

• List of Top 5 Easiest Countries to Get a Work Visa
• Top 10 Best Education Systems In The World
• Which Are The Easiest Universities To Get Into In Europe?