Which Degree Offers the Easiest Path to a Job?

When you start looking at university options, the biggest question is often: which degree is easiest to get a job? The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all list; it depends on how you define “easy,” what you’re willing to study, and where you want to work. This guide breaks down the most employable degrees, the data that backs them up, and practical ways to boost your job prospects using online learning.

What Makes a Degree “Easy” for Employment?

Before we rank any programmes, let’s set the criteria that turn a qualification into a fast‑track to work:

• Employment rate within six months of graduation - the higher, the easier.
• Average starting salary - a signal that employers value the skill set.
• Industry demand - sectors that are hiring now and will keep hiring.
• Flexibility of study - degrees that can be completed online or part‑time reduce barriers.
• Transferable skills - communication, problem‑solving and digital literacy help you pivot if the market shifts.

Data from the UK Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) and the National Student Survey (NSS) consistently show that healthcare, technology and business degrees meet most of these markers.

Top Degrees With the Highest Employment Rates

Below is a snapshot of the degrees that, according to the 2024 HESA graduate outcomes report, have the highest six‑month employment rates for UK students. The table also notes typical study length, average starting salary, and whether the degree is widely available through reputable online platforms.

Why Healthcare and Tech Degrees Lead the Pack

Nursing tops the list because the UK’s National Health Service faces chronic staffing shortages. Every new graduate nurse fills an immediate vacancy, and the sector offers clear career ladders-from staff nurse to specialist practitioner.

Technology degrees such as Computer Science and Data Science stay in demand thanks to digital transformation across finance, retail, and government. Even if you start with a basic coding bootcamp, a formal degree signals depth and unlocks senior‑level roles faster.

Can an Associate’s Degree Be the Fastest Route?

For students who want to earn while they learn, a two‑year Associate's degree (often called a Higher National Diploma in the UK) is a pragmatic choice. Fields like Applied Computing, Business Support, and Health Care Assistance have decent employment rates and lower tuition fees. However, the ceiling for salary and advancement is typically lower than for a full bachelor's.

If you pair the HND with industry‑recognized certifications-like CompTIA A+ for IT support or NVQ Level 5 for senior care-you can bridge the gap to a bachelor's undergraduate level without extra years on campus.

How Online Learning Accelerates the Job‑Ready Path

Online platforms have democratized access to the degrees that matter most. Here’s how to make the most of them:

1. Choose accredited providers. Look for universities that have a UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF) endorsement or a recognized partner like the Open University.
2. Blend theory with practice. Enrol in programmes that embed internships, virtual labs, or real‑world projects. A “capstone” project that solves a business problem looks great on a CV.
3. Earn micro‑credentials. Badges from Coursera, edX, or FutureLearn can be added to LinkedIn and often count toward credit in a full degree.
4. Network early. Use discussion forums, virtual study groups, and alumni networks to connect with potential employers before you graduate.

Many successful graduates cite a single online module-like a Python programming course or a patient‑care simulation-as the turning point that landed them an interview.

Quick Checklist: Is This Degree Right for You?

• Do you prefer a short, two‑year programme (associate) or a three‑plus‑year bachelor’s?
• Is the industry hiring actively in your region?
• Can you secure a work placement or apprenticeship during study?
• Does the programme offer fully online delivery or a hybrid model?
• Are there recognised professional bodies (e.g., NMC for nursing, BCS for computing) that certify graduates?

Answering “yes” to at least four of these questions usually means you’re on a smoother path to employment.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even the most employable degree can hit a snag if you’re not strategic:

• Ignoring soft skills. Employers rank communication and teamwork above technical expertise. Join extracurricular clubs, volunteer, or lead a project to showcase these abilities.
• Failing to customise your CV. Tailor each application to the job description-highlight relevant modules, projects, and certifications.
• Skipping the career services. Universities often provide free CV reviews, mock interviews, and employer fairs. Take advantage of them, even if you study online.
• Over‑specialising too early. Broad degrees like Business Administration give you flexibility to pivot into marketing, finance, or HR.

By staying proactive, you turn a strong degree into a fast‑track career launch.

Next Steps: From Decision to Offer

Ready to act? Here’s a three‑phase plan:

1. Research. Use the table above to shortlist 1‑2 degrees that align with your timeline and salary goals.
2. Enroll. Apply through the university’s online portal or a trusted MOOC platform. Look for scholarships aimed at “high‑employment” subjects.
3. Engage. Start building a portfolio-GitHub repos for tech, patient‑care simulations for nursing, or business case studies for administration. Share them on LinkedIn as you progress.

Within a year of graduation, you’ll have a solid credential, a showcase of work, and a network ready to recommend you.