5 Best Degrees for Remote Work in Tech (High Paying)
Let's face it: Degrees for Remote Work.
Why should you even care?
We all know that a daily commute leaves us beat down and stressed. You might not think this will help your quality of life, but the truth is it can.
Getting rid of an office job and start living by the 9 Remote Worker Best Practices can be very beneficial in many ways!
Believe me. I did and I LOVE my new life!
- Work-life balance is unbelievably good.
- Talk about mental health? Check!
- Managing your own schedule to allow you to work whenever you want? Check!
Why not look into pursuing various degrees online which don't require any location restrictions or stress? It's not that difficult!
Why Get a Tech Degree for remote work?
Getting a remote job is not as easy. But there are at least 15 Reasons Why Remote Work is Better than Office.
As you look toward the future, positioning yourself to find and thrive in a home-based job or career makes sense. And it's not about the job title itself. The field you choose to go into will depend on your needs and interests.
While many fields offer work-from-home opportunities, these are some of the leading tech degrees to pursue to have a successful career while working from home! Many of these degrees can be earned online from home as well!
Let's start with the most obvious one.
Since its inception, technology has been a driving force for everything we do in our lives and careers. Learning how to develop software or hardware is the best way to get ahead of everyone else because it allows you to put yourself at the forefront of innovation!
Maybe you already decided to get into remote work and scoured tons of job postings. Or you already work remotely and want to get to the next level. But many high-paying flexible jobs require that you've already participated in a degree program.
Anyway, as long as you have the Skills for Remote Working every Employer wants You to have, you should go for it!
So let's look into some of the best degrees that can boost your career.
Some of these may come as a surprise to you, but I guarantee they are worth your time to investigate further.
Best Degrees for Remote Work – Tech Jobs
We all know it.
Tech jobs are on the rise.
Startups in the information technology field are taking over the world! Why not join one and work from home?
Working in the tech industry is a great way to get into innovative career paths. You get to work with people from all over who love being able to contribute their ideas, which will help you come up with new ones too!
And because of this excitement for innovation, it's not uncommon that even non-tech job seekers want to step into this field of work.
Technology jobs often promote creativity as well. Many staff members find these types of careers allow them access into industries where others normally couldn't go due to location concerns (e.g., rural areas).
If you're interested in a tech job, these degrees will give you the edge needed to start a new career from home.
#1 Get a degree in Software Engineering
What is it: Remote jobs in Software Engineering are pretty common these days. Software Engineering is a degree that focuses on the study of processes and procedures to create software. This involves actions such as planning, classification, designing, implementation, and testing. Oftentimes, a Software Engineer does not work alone and has to coordinate with others in their field.
Salary: The average salary for a Software Engineer having a Bachelor's degree is $110,140 per year or $52.95 per hour.
Job outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that software engineering jobs are expected to increase by 27% between 2014 and 2024. This is the highest growth percentage among all other careers in software development!
What it takes: One of the best degrees for remote jobs, Software Engineer is a great job opportunity for those who enjoy working closely with computers or want to take part in building automation systems. This is a four-year degree and will require students to learn how to use math skills in problem-solving, logic, and math to stand out.
Why get one: If you are looking for jobs where you can remotely work from home then a degree will give you a great chance of doing so. Some companies don't care about degrees, but most of the time a degree in Software Engineering is a great advantage when it comes to landing your first remote job. If you're skilled enough and have a knack for business administration, you can also think about building your own business.
What are the requirements? You don't necessarily need to go to college or university for this degree, but it certainly doesn't hurt. When getting a degree, make sure you're prepared to deal with computer coding languages such as C++, Python, JavaScript, or Ruby.
How it's beneficial: You'll gain knowledge of both front-end and back-end software engineering concepts, gaining a better understanding of mobile computing, data structures, object-oriented design patterns, systems analysis/engineering principles as well as fundamentals of algorithms and data structures.
Specialization: Depending on the industry you want to work in, there are many different specializations within Software Engineering. Some of these include:
- Mobile Applications – the focus is designing and developing software specifically for mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets (iOS, Android).
- Cloud Computing – a specialized degree that focuses on cloud computing systems like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure.
- Web Development – a specialization for those who want to work with web development and software engineering.
Why you should consider it: A software developer can have a successful career in a variety of different job types. It's also a future-proof job as the industry has many different areas it can extend into.
Where to get a degree: You can find a bachelor's or master's program in Software Engineering at Universities throughout the world such as MIT and Harvard University.
Possible work from home positions: Software Engineer, Ruby on Rails Engineer, AWS Cloud Engineer, Cloud Computing Developer.
#2 Get a Master's Degree in Information Technology Management
What is it: This degree focuses on a variety of different topics such as technology, and digital business. The program aims to develop the necessary skills for leading teams in creating new software or maintaining existing programs. Graduates can be expected to successfully manage staff while handling issues that occur during project planning and implementation.
Salary: In IT Management you can earn a salary of $109,000 while you work remotely.
Job outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that jobs for IT Managers are expected to grow by 18% between 2014 and 2024.
What it takes: At a minimum, you should have an undergraduate degree before getting this master's program. You must have a strong background in technology and business.
Why get one: If you're looking for jobs where you can work remotely from home then an IT management degree will give you great chances of finding such employment options. A master's program often qualifies graduates to sit for the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification exam, which can be a great advantage when looking for work from home.
What are the requirements: You don't necessarily need to go to college or university but it certainly doesn't hurt. A bachelor's degree in Information Systems, Business Management, Engineering (Computer/Electrical), Technology (Computer/Electronic) is typically required before attending this program, as is two to three years of experience in IT management.
How it's beneficial: Graduates are prepared for managing an organization's information technology resources, including software implementations and upgrades. You'll gain strong technical skills that will prepare you for working with both business analysts as well as engineers within the field.
Specialization: The program offers a variety of different specializations you can choose from. These include:
- Enterprise Systems – the focus is on designing, developing, and managing information systems that support an entire organization or company (e-commerce, ERP/SAP management).
- Cyber Security Management – a specialization for those who want to work with cyber security in building secure computer systems.
- Quality Assurance and Security Management – a specialization for those who want to work with ensuring that software meets certain quality standards before being released, as well as protecting online systems from cyber threats.
Where to get a degree: You can find a master's program in Information Technology Management at the University of Southern California, Penn State School of International Affairs.
Possible work from home positions: Information Technology Manager, Business Systems Analyst, Web Developer.
#3 Get a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
What is it: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science focuses on the study of computer hardware and software. This involves skills such as information processing, programming languages, data structures, operating systems, networking concepts, and design principles for people who want to work with computers. Oftentimes, you'll have to deal with complex data management projects like big data, manage networks and develop databases.
Salary: Computer Science majors make an average of $91,000 per year.
Job outlook: The job outlook is very positive as the demand for qualified candidates to fill jobs continues to grow. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are expected to be around 364,100 new computer science-related job openings between 2014 and 2024. That's a growth rate of 17%!
What it takes: A bachelor's degree will be required to enter the field. You'll need:
- strong programming skills
- a deep interest in computer theory
- interest in technical manuals
- knowledge of mathematics topics such as linear algebra and calculus, data structures/algorithms, computer architecture concepts
- operating systems theory
- networking principles
- and communication protocols.
Why get one: If you have a knack for mathematics and logic, a degree will offer you plenty of job opportunities. Think about it. If you love business administration, you even can build your own business and have your own startup. But make sure you consult a financial advisor before getting into this field.
What are the requirements: A bachelor's degree will be required and you'll need to take courses in advanced mathematics, statistics theory, data structures/algorithms as well as computer architecture.
How it's beneficial: You learn how to program with different programming languages such as C++ or Java which can make your opportunities more diverse. Depending on the area of specialization (systems, networks, or theory) you can also gain a better understanding of how computers work and what makes them function.
Specialization: Depending on the industry you want to go into, there are different areas that you may specialize in such as
- Software Engineering – focuses on designing and developing software programs (apps).
- Systems Programming – required for those who want to work with operating systems, compilers, and the software stack.
- Networking – focuses on designing large-scale networked systems like social networks or telecommunications infrastructures.
Where to get a degree: There are bachelor's and master's degree programs that you can find at Universities throughout the world such as Harvard.
Possible work from home positions: With a degree, you can apply to remote jobs such as web developer, systems analyst, or network administrator.
#4 Get a Degree in Web development
What it is: Web development focuses on the creation of websites and apps. Many people with this degree (or a related one) work for companies to develop their website or app, while some may be self-employed as freelance web developers.
Salary: According to PayScale, web developers make an average salary between $50k-$90
Job outlook: The job outlook is expected to grow at a rate of 12% through 2022/23.
What it takes: You need to have a deep love for web design and be able to work with different programming languages. If that sounds like you, you'll also need an understanding of computer concepts such as object-oriented programming and a passion for boosting your creative writing skills through coding.
Why get one: Web development focuses on programming languages, which is a great skill to have in today's workforce as companies continue to move toward digital operations. You can apply for jobs such as junior web developer or software engineer positions with this degree.
What are the requirements: Most employers will expect you to know how to use HTML/CSS, JavaScript (or Angular), Adobe Photoshop, or another graphic editor software. In addition to this, you should also have basic knowledge about server-side languages such as PHP and C.
How it's beneficial: You will learn how to build websites using different programming languages which can be helpful for your career growth in the future.
Specialization: There are a few areas that you can specialize in (front-end, back-end or full-stack web development).
- Front end – focuses on the presentation layer of websites. It's also where your code interacts with users through forms and usability elements like menus/buttons. The front end is responsible for how an app or website looks.
- Backend – focuses on the server-side of things that are hidden from users but essential for communication between the front end and database. The backend is where your code interacts with databases to handle user requests, store data, etc.
- Full-stack – equips you with skills needed for both areas (frontend and backend).
- Become a project manager for web based-projects.
Where to get a degree: There are bachelor's and master's degree programs that you can find at Universities throughout the world such as Northwestern University, Stanford University, or Harvard.
Possible positions: With a degree in web development, you can apply for jobs such as front-end developer/software engineer, back-end coder/software engineer, or full-stack developer.
#5 Get a Degree in Cybersecurity
What is it: Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field that focuses on the protection of computer systems from unauthorized access, change, or destruction. As companies are becoming more reliant on technology to conduct daily business functions and operations, this field continues to grow in demand as cyber-attacks increase.
Salary: According to PayScale, cybersecurity specialists can make an average salary between $65k-$90k.
Job outlook: The job growth is expected to be at a rate of 39% through 2022/23, which is much faster than average. This makes it one of the best degree choices for a work-from-home job in terms of future opportunities and salary potential.
What it takes: You'll need an understanding of software development, as well as an interest in networks, protocols, and cybersecurity.
Why get one: The demand for security professionals is growing at a rapid rate due to the increase of cyberattacks. Cybersecurity specialists can find positions in companies such as Microsoft or Google but may also work independently through freelancing platforms like Upwork.
What are the requirements: Most employers will expect you to understand Linux, Network+, Security+ or other cybersecurity certifications. You should also know how to use penetration testing tools such as Kali Linux and Nessus.
How it's beneficial: With a degree in cyber security, you can help companies secure their data through IT policies/procedures/standards. You can also work as a security consultant, forensics specialist, or penetration tester.
Specialization: You can specialize in areas such as
- network security for online businesses
- database and web application penetration testing
- or wireless and mobile device pen-testing
Where to get a degree: There are bachelor's and master's degree programs that you can find at Universities throughout the world.
Possible positions: With a degree in cyber security, you can apply for jobs such as network security engineer, cybersecurity specialist, or information security analyst.
How to Negotiate Higher Salary having a Tech degree
Now that we've talked about the best online degrees for high-paying remote jobs, let's look at how to negotiate a higher salary.
During your job search, you need to research what other remote workers are making in the same position (i.e., front-end developer). Once you know this information, it will help you ask for more or propose other benefits that are worth something to the company rather than
The future of work from home
The future of work from home is in your hands. Of course, having solid Early childhood education is important. But choosing a career you love is key to being successful.
You can position yourself to find and thrive in a home-based job or career with the help of these best degrees for remote work. They offer high salaries, ample opportunity for growth, and room for specialization.
Which one are you most interested in pursuing? Let us know!
We're here to guide you through every step of this process so that you can get started on your journey toward success.
As always, don't forget to share this article if you found it informative or helpful
