Key Takeaways
- In Australia, an associate degree or a diploma often have the lowest entry barriers.
- Duration ranges from 6 months (certificates) to 2 years (associate degrees), far shorter than a typical three‑year bachelor.
- Cost, job prospects, and study mode (online vs on‑campus) are the three biggest decision factors.
- Beware of “easy” credentials that don’t align with your career goals - low entry doesn’t always mean low value.
- Use the comparison table below to match a program with your time, budget, and employability needs.
Understanding “Easy” When It Comes to Degrees
When you hear the phrase easiest degree, you probably picture a short course, a few easy exams, and a quick route to a diploma. But “easy” can mean different things to different people. Some students count low academic thresholds, others count how fast they can graduate, and a few look at how little money they need to spend.
In the Australian context, the education system is built on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). The AQF stacks qualifications from Level 1 (Certificate I) up to Level 10 (Doctorate). The lower levels generally have the least stringent entry requirements, shorter study loads, and lower tuition fees. That’s why most people searching for the easiest path end up looking at Level 5 (Diploma) or Level 6 (Associate degree) programs.
Common Degree Paths That Often Have Low Barriers
Below are the most frequently mentioned qualifications when students ask for the "quickest" or "easiest" route.
Associate degree is a two‑year post‑secondary qualification that sits below a bachelor's degree in the Australian Qualifications Framework. It typically requires an ATAR of 60-70 or a recognized vocational qualification as a bridge.
Diploma sits at AQF Level 5 and usually takes 1.5-2 years of full‑time study. Entry often only needs a Year 12 certificate or equivalent work experience.
Certificate program ranges from Certificate I to IV and can be completed in 6 months to 1 year. No ATAR is required; most providers accept a high school completion or industry experience.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) is a three‑year degree but many universities now offer accelerated pathways that let you finish in 2 years if you have a relevant diploma or credit for prior learning.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) follows the same structure as a BA but usually has higher maths and science prerequisites, making it a bit tougher for the “easy” crowd.
How to Pick the Right “Easy” Degree for You
Start by answering three personal questions:
- How much time can I commit each week? If you work full‑time, a part‑time diploma (8‑10 hours/week) may be realistic.
- What budget am I working with? Public TAFE courses can be as low as AUD 2,000 per year, while private universities often charge upwards of AUD 10,000.
- What career do I want after graduation? An associate degree in Business Administration can lead to entry‑level admin roles, whereas a Certificate IV in Cyber Security may open junior IT positions.
Match your answers against the table below to see which qualification hits the sweet spot.
Comparison Table: Duration, Entry Requirements, Cost, Job Outlook
| Qualification | Typical Duration | Entry Requirement | Average Tuition (AUD) | Median Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate degree | 2 years full‑time | ATAR 60‑70 or diploma credit | 5,000-7,000 per year | 55,000 |
| Diploma (Level 5) | 1.5-2 years full‑time | Year 12 or relevant work experience | 2,000-4,000 per year (TAFE) | 48,000 |
| Certificate IV | 6‑12 months full‑time | No ATAR, industry experience acceptable | 1,500-3,000 per year | 45,000 |
| Accelerated BA | 2 years (credit‑based) | Diploma or ATAR ≥ 70 | 8,000-12,000 per year | 60,000 |
| Online Open University degree | Varies - 1-3 years | Open enrolment (no ATAR) | 3,000-6,000 per year | 50,000 (varies by field) |
Real‑World Examples: Who Chooses These Paths and Why
Meet Maya, a 24‑year‑old from Adelaide who wanted to pivot from retail to a clerical role. She enrolled in a TAFE diploma in Business Administration. The program took 18 months, cost AUD 4,500, and landed her a job with a starting salary of AUD 55,000.
Then there’s Liam, a former tradesperson who wanted a tech job but couldn’t spend three years at university. He completed a Certificate IV in Cyber Security with the Open University. In eight months he earned a credential recognized by several Australian IT firms and secured a junior analyst position.
Both stories illustrate that “easy” is subjective - it aligns with personal constraints, not just academic difficulty.
Pitfalls to Watch Out For
1. Low prestige doesn’t always equal low value. Some employers discount qualifications from little‑known providers. Research the industry acceptance before you sign up.
2. Over‑reliance on speed. Finishing a degree quickly can be great, but if you skip foundational skills you may hit a ceiling later.
3. Hidden costs. Even “cheap” programs can have material fees, mandatory work placements, or technology charges that add up.
4. Accreditation matters. Make sure the program is AQF‑registered and, for professional fields, recognized by the relevant board (e.g., ACS for IT).
Quick Checklist Before You Enrol
- Verify AQF level and accreditation status.
- Compare total cost (tuition + fees + materials).
- Check average graduate salary for the field.
- Confirm the program’s delivery mode fits your schedule (online, on‑campus, blended).
- Look for credit‑transfer options if you later want to upgrade to a bachelor’s degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an associate degree really easier than a bachelor’s?
Generally yes. An associate degree requires fewer credit points (usually 120) and lower ATAR thresholds. However, the perceived ease depends on the subject area - a science‑focused associate can be tougher than a humanities bachelor.
Can I study an easy degree online?
Yes. Many TAFEs and the Open University offer fully online diplomas and certificates. Online study often reduces commuting costs and lets you study at your own pace.
Will an easy degree help me get a government job?
It can, but you must match the specific role’s requirements. For many clerical public‑service positions, a diploma in Public Administration is sufficient and often preferred because it’s concise.
How much can I expect to earn with a certificate?
Median starting salaries for Certificate IV holders sit around AUD 45,000, varying by industry. Tech‑focused certificates tend to pay a bit more, while hospitality certificates may start lower.
Is there a fast‑track route to a bachelor’s after an easy degree?
Absolutely. Many universities accept prior learning credits from diplomas or associate degrees, shaving 1‑2 years off a traditional three‑year bachelor.