Being a single mother requires grit and determination. Many responsibilities, from raising children to earning paychecks, can weigh on these mothers and lead to feelings of inadequacy or doubt. Even though single moms often have their hands full with childcare and other family life matters, many of them consider higher education a worthwhile endeavor.
For mothers who haven’t finished a formal degree program—or for those looking to advance in their careers—a college education is an essential pathway to career readiness. Yet some single moms may struggle to find a way to fit that education into their family and work life. Fortunately, many online degree programs from respected universities offer a way for dedicated mothers to fulfill their professional goals at a sustainable pace.
This blog discusses a few important points regarding enrolling in a degree program and examines some of the best online degrees for single mothers—and all single parents, for that matter.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Degree
The decision to earn a degree is a big one, and it carries certain considerations that single mothers should reflect on. Higher education should not be a roadblock to personal or professional success. Rather, it should be an enriching and fulfilling experience that opens doors to good career opportunities and fits comfortably in a parent’s life.
Single moms should consider the following factors when deciding on a degree program:
- Flexibility. Studying, taking tests, and advancing through courses require time and effort. A degree program that demands too much time or that doesn’t allow for enough flexibility in completing coursework may not be the best choice.
- Job market demand. While pursuing a favorite subject or field is important, it’s also worth taking time to evaluate whether there’s enough market demand for a targeted job. Positions with high demand may allow for more advancement opportunities.
- Salary potential. Earning enough money to make a living is essential. Some single mothers may face challenges in making ends meet. Choosing a degree program that positions learners for gainful employment is crucial.
- Work-life balance. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can often be overlooked by working moms eager to provide for their family. These parents should find a degree program that respects their time and allows them to continue working in some capacity.
Online Degrees: A Viable Option for Single Moms
Many—if not all—online degree programs are a great fit for single mothers. A huge number of online programs offer students the flexibility they need while preparing or upskilling for a career.
For example, single moms enrolled in an online degree program can study while at home with their children, removing the need to commute to a university campus, spend time in classrooms, and schedule for daycare. Working mothers can often enjoy a more manageable work-life balance when studying online.
Best Degrees for Single Moms
Each of the sections below provides a brief overview of a degree and why it’s a good option for single mothers. These overviews cover criteria like potential careers, flexibility, earning potential, and job outlooks.
Nursing (RN to BSN)
“RN to BSN” means “registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing.” This degree program requires applicants to hold a current RN license and is common among individuals hoping to go further in their profession or qualify for higher-paying jobs. Moms going back to school to earn a nursing degree may be interested in a number of areas, including nurse education, clinical research, pediatric nursing, and more.
Most nursing jobs offer flexible hours and a high earning potential. Due to the nature of their work, nurses typically benefit from steady job security. Plus, many hospitals in the U.S. offer some form of childcare for busy working mothers.
- Flexibility: High
- Career Outlook: Faster-than-average job growth
- Earning Potential: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in May 2023 that registered nurses earned an average annual salary of $86,070. Those with a bachelor’s often earn more.
Early Childhood Education and Development
Many single moms are drawn to careers in primary education because their work schedules align with their children’s school schedules. Elementary education and early childhood development are popular degrees thanks to flexible yearly schedules, various growth opportunities, loan forgiveness programs, and the potential to get certified.
Common jobs for those with a degree in early childhood education include teaching, curriculum design, daycare management, and more.
- Flexibility: High
- Career Outlook: Average job growth
- Earning Potential: The BLS reported in May 2023 that kindergarten and elementary school teachers earned an average annual salary of $63,680.
Business Administration
Business degrees prepare learners for versatile careers in all kinds of industries, from retail and hospitality to marketing and finance. Mothers interested in starting their own business or entering a leadership role may find a bachelor’s in business management or a master’s in business administration (MBA) to be invaluable.
Jobs in business administration allow for a large range of earning potential, with many offering remote or hybrid work schedules. Business administration degrees teach essential entrepreneurial skills needed to get businesses off the ground and thriving.
- Flexibility: High
- Career Outlook: Faster-than-average job growth
- Earning Potential: The BLS reported in May 2023 that the average annual salary for professionals in business management was $116,880.
Information Technology
The information technology (IT) field is constantly growing and evolving to keep up with advancements in digital technology. IT degrees typically teach fundamental principles in programming, data management, web development, and network systems. Many entry-level jobs in IT are in high demand, boast attractive salaries, and allow for remote work opportunities.
A degree in IT serves as a strong foundation for myriad careers, including those in software engineering, user experience (UX) design, computer and data science, IT management, and more.
- Flexibility: High
- Career Outlook: Much-faster-than-average job growth
- Earning Potential: The BLS reported in May 2023 that the average annual salary for those in computer and IT occupations was $104,420.
Healthcare Administration
Healthcare management degrees are designed for those interested in the nonclinical and management aspects of medicine and medical services. Careers in healthcare administration tend to be in high demand and offer competitive salaries. It’s common for aspiring hospital administrators, nursing home managers, healthcare consultants, and other similar professionals to earn a degree in healthcare management before going on to earning a master’s.
Fortunately, many online degree programs in healthcare administration provide individuals flexible options for coursework.
- Flexibility: High
- Career Outlook: Much-faster-than-average job growth
- Earning Potential: The BLS reported in May 2023 that the average annual salary for medical and health services managers was $110,680.
Accounting
Businesses and organizations around the world rely on accountants to record, review, and analyze their finances. This means that accounting degrees are in high demand. Those who earn these degrees often enjoy consistent job security, a high earning potential, and lucrative opportunities in nearly every industry.
Accounting graduates may go on to work as certified public accountants (CPAs), financial advisors, or provide accounting or auditing services for private firms and organizations.
- Flexibility: High
- Career Outlook: Average job growth
- Earning Potential: The BLS reported in May 2023 that the average annual salary for accountants and auditors was $79,880.
