Have you wondered which master’s degrees are the highest paid and offer the best return on investment (ROI)? A master’s degree is an investment of time, money, and effort – it is worth it to research which master’s degrees will yield the best results. This practical guide will explore the highest-paid master’s degrees in various fields.
It’s a difficult question to answer, given that each country has unique job market conditions and labor shortages. However, there is no doubt that master’s degrees in specific subjects transcend borders and are invaluable for employers no matter where they are based. Whilst business degrees remain the most popular overall choice for master’s students, the available programs are expanding.
There are various reasons why people choose to further their education by studying for a master’s degree, and the salary boost that they provide is one of the benefits of doing a master’s degree. Since a master’s degree is a significant financial and time commitment, it is helpful to inform yourself about the master’s degrees that will yield the best long-term career outcomes. Let’s explore the highest-paying master’s degrees that lead to fruitful career paths in three top industries.
A master’s degree in finance covers a wide range of topics essential to any business in any country, whether a small family firm or a multinational corporation. Graduates holding a master’s degree in finance could work in fields such as investments, banking, or accounting. Whilst it is easy to throw all of these possible careers under the same umbrella, they require different skill sets and expectations in reality. An accountant, for instance, is responsible for dealing with a company’s tax obligations and paying staff on time, whilst a career as an Investment Manager is a more high-risk option concerned with ensuring your clients’ investments turn a strong profit.
The sheer necessity of finance professionals in almost all walks of life, as well as the close links between finance and business, mean that a career in this field can be an extremely lucrative one.
The QS Business Master’s Rankings 2025: Finance lists these programs and schools as the best finance degrees:
The Financial Times Masters in Finance pre-experience 2024 Rankings reflect similar trends.
Technology has gradually occupied almost every aspect of our lives, from the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) to digital marketing to social media. Economies worldwide have not been able to keep up with the rapid growth in demand for tech experts.
Degrees in Information Technology, Computer Science, Web Design, Software Development, and Cybersecurity can all lead to high-paying opportunities in the tech sector.
For example, a master’s degree in Computer Science teaches students the programming languages necessary for coding and the ‘bigger picture’ aspects of IT such as computer architecture, algorithms, and machine learning. In practice, it provides students with the skills necessary to build & maintain company IT systems, design computer software, and build apps, amongst many other things. They’re all essential skills for any modern-day business, and so Computer Science specialists are understandably in demand.
According to Best Grad Schools Rankings 2024 by U.S News for Best Computer Science Schools (specific to the United States), the top schools to attend are:
As public and private healthcare systems worldwide grow more complex, so does the need for skilled management staff to oversee their daily processes. The need for healthcare workers globally ensures that it remains one of the top industries in which to find employment.
Career paths in healthcare include gynecologist, psychiatrist, orthodontist, surgeon, therapist, midwife, and dentist—and many more!
The World University Rankings 2024 by subject: clinical and health lists these schools as the best options:
Alternatively, the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Nursing list these schools as the best options:
Similar trends are mirrored in Edurank’s Best Universities for Healthcare Management (MHA) in the World ranking:
As the healthcare sector has a diverse amount of specializations, it is best to research the school and program that best suits the industry that you want to go into.
While all of these highest-paid master’s degrees will take you far in your career journey and bring you a high ROI, ultimately, it is up to you which master’s degree program and school best suits your career goals.
Doing your research, staying aware of industry trends, and choosing the right program that best suits your career and financial goals will make a world of difference when it comes to building a fruitful career.
Read our previous articles about jobs and careers to gain further insights.
