20 Most Useful Master's Degrees in 2025

<p>If you're thinking about going back to school for a master's degree, you may be curious what the top options are. What are the most in-demand and <a href="https://learn.org/articles/highest_paying_masters_degrees.html">highest-paying master's degrees</a> available? </p> <p>Keep reading as we look at some of the best master's degrees you can earn and the careers you can pursue with them. We'll also provide general salary information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and answer a few questions you may have. </p> <h2 id="section---BenefitsOfEarningYourMasterSDegree">Benefits of Earning Your Master's Degree</h2> <p>There can be a wide array of benefits to earning a master's degree. Some of the most common benefits include: </p> <ul><li>increased earning potential </li><li>potential career advancement </li><li>network-building opportunities </li><li>gaining specialized knowledge </li><li>aiding personal development </li><li>career change opportunities </li><li>gaining research experience </li></ul><h2 id="section---TheMostValuableMasterSDegrees">The Most Valuable Master's Degrees</h2> <p>Now that you're ready to improve your career opportunities and explore new options, let's look at some top master's programs to consider if you hold a bachelor's degree in a related or unrelated field. </p> <h3 id="section---1.BusinessAdministration">1. Business Administration</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $206,420 </li></ul><p>A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the best master's degrees you can get. There are many <a href="https://learn.org/articles/high_paying_mba_jobs.html">high-paying MBA jobs</a>, most of which are in leadership roles within companies. </p> <p>MBA programs are typically completed within one to two years. Career paths include project management, entrepreneurship, and various top executive positions, such as CEO and CFO. </p> <h3 id="section---2.ComputerInformationSystems">2. Computer Information Systems</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $171,200 </li></ul><p>A Master of Science (MS) in computer information systems can lead to high-level careers as information systems managers. While most technology careers pay well, management positions within the field often pay even better. </p> <p>The BLS projects information systems managers will see a 17% increase in open positions by 2023. This is a much faster-than-average projected growth rate, meaning anyone working in this field is likely to enjoy ongoing job security. </p> <h3 id="section---3.EngineeringManagement">3. Engineering Management</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $167,740 </li></ul><p>An MS in engineering management gives opportunities to pursue leadership positions within a highly lucrative field. Salaries can vary between engineering specializations, but anyone working as an engineering manager can expect a lucrative salary. </p> <p>Common high-paying fields for these professionals include architectural, electrical, industrial, and aerospace engineering. Those hoping to pursue management positions typically require several years of experience in their chosen field as well as a master's degree, which takes about two years to complete. </p> <h3 id="section---4.Finance">4. Finance</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $161,700 </li></ul><p>A finance degree is one of the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/best_masters_degrees_for_high_paying_remote_work.html">best master's degrees for remote work</a>. You can pursue various work-from-home positions in finance, such as a personal financial advisor and financial analyst role. </p> <p>Financial managers and other finance professionals not only earn lucrative salaries but are in high demand. The BLS projects the need for financial managers will grow by 17% by 2033. </p> <h3 id="section---5.Marketing">5. Marketing</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $159,660 </li></ul><p>There are several advanced degrees in marketing available &mdash; most lasting about two years. Some students pursue a Master of Arts or Master of Science, while others earn an MBA with a specialization in marketing. </p> <p>A master's degree is often necessary for highly lucrative marketing positions, such as a marketing manager. This degree can help job seekers pursue positions in digital marketing, advertising, and promotions. </p> <h3 id="section---6.PetroleumEngineering">6. Petroleum Engineering</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $141,280 </li></ul><p>Some schools offer master's degrees in petroleum engineering that last about two to three years. Those working in this specialized engineering field are typically well compensated for their expertise. </p> <p>Though petroleum engineers are paid well, they are not in high demand; the BLS projects only a 2% growth rate by 2033. That said, if you're interested in the field and can find a specialized degree, you are likely to be rewarded with an enjoyable and high-paying career. </p> <h3 id="section---7.ComputerScience">7. Computer Science</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $140,910 </li></ul><p>Computer science degrees are popular at every level, including the graduate level. Those who earn a Master of Science in computer science can work as computer scientists, programmers, network architects, systems analysts, and more. </p> <p>Tech fields are in high demand, with a 26% projected job growth rate by 2033. This helps to ensure you'll have plenty of job opportunities going forward. </p> <h3 id="section---8.ArtificialIntelligenceMachineLearning">8. Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $140,910 </li></ul><p>Artificial intelligence (AI) is the wave of the future. More and more schools are starting to offer degrees in AI and machine learning, which in turn lead to futuristic and lucrative careers in technology design and development. </p> <p>Those with an AI degree can expect similar salaries and job growth rates as those in other computer science professions. That said, they may experience higher job security as they possess specialized skills that will become more necessary as technology evolves. </p> <h3 id="section---9.HumanResourcesManagement">9. Human Resources Management</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $140,030 </li></ul><p>Human resources managers play an essential role within any organization. They possess strong interpersonal skills to act as liaisons between companies and their employees. </p> <p>Most master's degrees in human resources management take about one to two years to complete. This type of degree can help you pursue high-level HR roles, potentially helping you earn more than if you had a bachelor's degree alone. </p> <h3 id="section---10.PoliticalScience">10. Political Science</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $139,380 </li></ul><p>Those who major in political science can pursue numerous roles as politicians, diplomats, and public officials. They often receive lucrative salaries for their service, especially if they hold master's degrees. </p> <p>Though political scientists can expect an average to below-average job growth rate, they still play important roles in society. Those hoping to hold a position in public office can greatly benefit from earning a master's degree in the field. </p> <h3 id="section---11.PhysicianAssistantStudies">11. Physician Assistant Studies</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $133,260 </li></ul><p>Physician assistants are healthcare professionals who work under the direct supervision on physicians in hospitals and other facilities. They are tasked with providing patient examinations, counseling services, medication administration, and more. </p> <p>To become a physician assistant, you'll need to hold a master's degree, which typically takes around three years to earn. In exchange, you'll be rewarded with a lucrative and fulfilling career that can expect a 28% job rate increase by 2033. </p> <h3 id="section---12.Nursing">12. Nursing</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $132,050 </li></ul><p>Nursing careers tend to pay higher-than-average salaries regardless of your level of education. If you earn a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), you can pursue advanced roles such as nurse practitioner and nurse anesthesiologist. </p> <p>Nurses are among the most in-demand professionals, with a projected 40% increase in job opportunities by 2033. Those with master's degrees are highly preferred candidates, making it relatively easy for them to find jobs. </p> <h3 id="section---13.SoftwareEngineering">13. Software Engineering</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $131,450 </li></ul><p>A master's degree in software engineering can lead to job titles such as software engineer and software developer. These professionals create, develop, test, and repair software systems and applications. </p> <p>Those with a master's degree in the field can pursue advanced positions, leading to potentially higher salaries. Software engineers and developers can expect a 17% increase in jobs by 2033. </p> <h3 id="section---14.InformationTechnology">14. Information Technology</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $124,910 </li></ul><p>There are many career paths you can pursue with a degree in information technology. Those with master's degrees in the field often take on management and administrative roles within companies' IT departments. </p> <p>Master's degrees in information technology typically take about one to two years to complete. Information security analysts and related IT professionals can expect a 33% job growth rate over the next several years. </p> <h3 id="section---15.ChemicalEngineering">15. Chemical Engineering</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $121,860 </li></ul><p>Chemical engineering is one of many engineering specializations. Chemical engineers are tasked with designing equipment, testing products, and overseeing manufacturing operations. </p> <p>Those in chemical engineering may be able to get started with only a bachelor's degree, but they will need to earn a master's degree for career advancement. This advanced degree may also help them pursue management positions as they gain experience. </p> <h3 id="section---16.IndustrialEngineering">16. Industrial Engineering</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $121,440 </li></ul><p>A master's degree in industrial engineering can help students pursue roles as industrial product managers. These professionals are currently experiencing average to below average job growth, but they are paid well for their expertise. </p> <p>Industrial engineering master's degrees usually take about 18 months to two years to complete. They can lead to various other careers in industrial engineering, including leadership roles. </p> <h3 id="section---17.HealthcareAdministration">17. Healthcare Administration</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $117,960 </li></ul><p>Healthcare administration is similar to business administration but applies specifically to healthcare facilities and organizations. Students learn important business management techniques and the unique opportunities and challenges of working in a healthcare setting. </p> <p>These degrees typically take one to two years to complete and can lead to high-demand careers. If you're interested in a non-clinical healthcare role, pursuing a healthcare administration degree can help you get there. </p> <h3 id="section---18.HealthInformationManagement">18. Health Information Management</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $117,960 </li></ul><p>Health information managers specialize in managing and overseeing the use and storage of patient health records and other sensitive information. Those with a master's degree in the field commonly hold high-level leadership roles within healthcare organizations. </p> <p>These degrees may take as little as one year to complete. Medical and health services managers, including health information managers, can expect a 29% job growth rate by 2033. </p> <h3 id="section---19.Economics">19. Economics</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $115,440 </li></ul><p>A Master of Science in economics can lead to a career as an economist, economic analyst, or other similar positions. These degrees typically take about one to two years to complete. </p> <p>Economists play essential roles in explaining and predicting economic trends. They can help companies understand how these trends may affect future business decisions, in turn helping the companies adjust to fluctuations in the economy. </p> <h3 id="section---20.DataScienceDataAnalytics">20. Data Science/Data Analytics</h3> <ul><li><b>Average salary range:</b> $112,590 </li></ul><p>Data science and data analytics degrees lead to various careers in data analysis. Professionals in these fields are in high demand, with a projected job growth rate of 36%. </p> <p>Though it's possible to become a data scientist without a master's degree, earning this advanced degree can lead to higher pay and can help candidates qualify for promotions. It is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys collecting, reading, and interpreting data of all kinds. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatDoesAnOnlineMasterSDegreeCost">What Does an Online Master's Degree Cost?</h2> <p>As with earning a bachelor's degree, the cost of a master's degree can vary widely depending on the school you attend and the specific type of degree you pursue. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of a master's degree was $19,749 per year during the 2020-2021 school year. </p> <p>The <a href="https://learn.org/articles/cheapest_online_masters_degrees.html">cheapest online graduate degrees</a> may cost as little as $4,000 to $7,000 per year. Degrees at prestigious private schools may cost upwards of $30,000 to $50,000 per year. The average cost at a public school is $12,394 per year, while the average cost at private schools is $26,621 per year. </p> <h2 id="section---IsAMasterSDegreeWorthIt">Is a Master's Degree Worth It?</h2> <p>A master's degree can require a big investment of time and money, so you want to know that you're going to get a good return on that investment. If you're wondering whether a master's degree is really worth it, the short answer is, it depends. </p> <p>A master's degree is not required or available for all fields; in some cases, a bachelor's degree or even an associate degree is sufficient. If you work in one of these fields, then earning a master's degree may not benefit you. </p> <p>That said, advanced degrees generally lead to more career opportunities and higher salaries. If you work in a field that requires a master's degree for a promotion you want to pursue, are interested in changing careers, or you simply want to earn more money, then completing a master's degree program can help you accomplish these goals. </p> <h2 id="section---ExploreOnlineMasterSDegrees">Explore Online Master's Degrees</h2> <p>If you're ready to go to graduate school and pursue a high-demand degree, explore the schools here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the colleges or universities directly to learn more about their graduate programs and to choose the best option for you.</p>