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Easiest 2‑Year Degrees: Quick Paths to an Associate Qualification
10Oct
Ashwin Kapoor

Ever wonder which easiest associate degree can land you a qualification in just two years without drowning in tough coursework? You’re not alone-many people want a fast, low‑stress route to a credential that still opens doors. Below you’ll find the degrees that consistently rank as the most straightforward, how they stack up on key factors, and a step‑by‑step guide to getting started.

What makes a 2‑year degree “easy”?

“Easy” is subjective, but most students agree on three core criteria:

  • Admission bar: Low GPA or no prior qualifications required.
  • Course load: Fewer compulsory credits and plenty of electives.
  • Technical demand: Hands‑on labs or complex theory are minimal.

When a program checks these boxes, it tends to have higher completion rates and less stress.

Top four easiest associate degrees in 2025

Based on admission standards, curriculum structure, and student feedback, these four programs regularly appear at the top of “easy associate degree” lists across the UK andUS.

  • Business Administration - A broad overview of office skills, marketing basics, and basic finance.
  • Early Childhood Education - Focuses on child development, classroom management, and practical teaching placements.
  • Information Technology - Covers fundamentals of hardware, networking, and common software tools.
  • Nursing Assistant - Prepares students for patient‑care support roles with minimal clinical depth.

Comparison table

Ease‑of‑Completion Comparison (2025)
Program Typical Admission GPA Core Credit Hours Average Tuition (UK£) Job Outlook (2025‑2030)
Business Administration 2.5/4.0 60 £4,200 Steady - office admin, sales support
Early Childhood Education 2.3/4.0 58 £3,800 Growing - nurseries, preschool assistants
Information Technology 2.7/4.0 62 £4,500 Strong - help‑desk, basic network admin
Nursing Assistant 2.0/4.0 55 £3,600 High - hospitals, home‑care agencies
Four‑panel illustration showing office, preschool, computer lab, and hospital scenes.

How to enrol in an easy associate degree

  1. Research accredited community colleges or online providers that offer the chosen program. Look for institutions with high completion rates for the specific degree.
  2. Check entry requirements - most of the easy programs accept a GPA of 2.0 or higher and do not demand prior coursework.
  3. Gather documentation: high‑school transcript, proof of identity, and if you’re UK‑based, your FAFSA equivalent (Student Finance England) details for potential funding.
  4. Apply online or in person. Many colleges have a quick “apply in minutes” portal that prompts you to upload your documents.
  5. Enroll in a mix of required core classes and electives that align with your interests - this reduces the feeling of monotony.
  6. Take advantage of student support services: tutoring, study groups, and career counseling. They are especially useful in easier programs where students may be juggling work.
  7. Complete the 60‑credit curriculum over two academic years (or faster if you opt for summer sessions).

What you can do after graduating

Even the “easiest” degrees give you a foothold in the job market. Here’s a snapshot of typical entry‑level roles:

  • Business Administration: Administrative assistant, sales associate, junior office manager.
  • Early Childhood Education: Classroom assistant, daycare worker, preschool aide.
  • Information Technology: Help‑desk technician, IT support specialist, junior network technician.
  • Nursing Assistant: Certified nursing assistant (CNA), patient care aide, home‑care support.

Most positions start around £18‑£22k per annum in the UK, with room to grow into higher‑paying roles after a few years of experience or further study.

Graduate walking from a campus arch toward four career paths in office, childcare, IT, and nursing.

Key takeaways

  • Easy associate degrees have low GPA thresholds, modest credit loads, and minimal technical depth.
  • Business Administration, Early Childhood Education, Information Technology, and Nursing Assistant consistently rank as the simplest two‑year options.
  • Tuition for these programs typically ranges from £3,600 to £4,500, making them affordable for most students.
  • Graduates can step straight into entry‑level jobs that offer a solid salary base and clear promotion pathways.
  • Start by picking an accredited college, confirming eligibility, and using student‑support services to stay on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which two‑year degree is truly the easiest?

Most students find Business Administration or Nursing Assistant to be the least demanding, because they require low GPA scores, have straightforward curricula, and involve limited lab work.

Can I study an easy associate degree online?

Yes. Many accredited UK and US colleges now deliver Business Administration, IT, and Early Childhood Education fully online, with flexible dead‑lines and virtual labs.

Do I need financial aid for a cheap two‑year program?

Not always, but you can apply for Student Finance England, bursaries, or scholarships that target adult learners. Even a modest grant can cover part of the £4,000‑£5,000 tuition.

How quickly can I finish if I take summer classes?

Adding two summer sessions can shave off up to six months, allowing you to graduate in 18months instead of 24.

Will an easy degree hurt my career prospects?

Not necessarily. Employers care more about relevant skills and experience. Pair the degree with internships, volunteer work, or short certifications to boost your résumé.