Choosing the right postgraduate degree is an important decision that can significantly impact your career prospects and earnings potential. With tuition fees rising and fierce competition for graduate jobs, it’s crucial to pick a Masters that will provide the skills and knowledge sought after by employers. But which Masters degrees are likely to give you the best employment outcomes and return on investment?
Why do a Masters degree?
A Masters degree shows employers that you have an in-depth understanding of a specialized subject area. It demonstrates high-level analytical and critical thinking skills gained through advanced coursework and research. The additional qualifications, knowledge and competencies make Masters graduates stand out from the crowd. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a Masters degree earn over 20% more than those with only a Bachelors degree. Some of the key benefits of completing a Masters include:
- Higher starting salaries – employers often pay a premium for Masters level qualifications
- Improved promotion prospects – a Masters can fast-track you into management roles
- Enhanced skills and expertise – gain valuable knowledge to stand out in your field
- Increased job opportunities – many roles now require a Masters degree
- Specialization – tailor your studies to a particular career path
- Personal development – broaden your intellectual horizons and grow professionally
With so many potential benefits, it’s no surprise that postgraduate education is becoming increasingly popular. But not all Masters degrees are created equal when it comes to employability. It’s important to choose one that will provide skills in high demand and strong job prospects.
How to choose an employable Masters
Here are some tips for selecting a Masters that will maximize your employment opportunities:
- Research job growth projections – Look for fields and occupations that are forecast to expand over the next 5-10 years. Degrees linked to high growth industries will have abundant employment opportunities.
- Target specialized, technical skills – Programs teaching in-demand practical and technical skills often outperform more generic degrees.
- Consider industry recognition – Degrees that are well-recognized by industry bodies or align with sought-after certifications can improve employability.
- Check graduate employment rates – Look at the employment outcomes, average salaries and recruitment rates for past graduates.
- Develop networking opportunities – Programs that facilitate internships, industry projects and collaborations with employers provide valuable connections.
- Build transferable skills – Look for degrees that develop communication, analytical, problem-solving and management capabilities valued across roles and sectors.
Keeping these criteria in mind, here are some of the most employable Masters degrees to consider based on job prospects, salaries and recruiter demand.
Technology & Engineering
Technology and engineering Masters programs typically top the ranks of employable degrees. These fields offer some of the highest paying and most abundant jobs for Masters graduates. Degrees that develop technical expertise and specialized knowledge in growing technology sectors are highly valued by employers.
Computer Science
A Masters in Computer Science is one of the most lucrative and employable technology degrees. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15% growth in software and IT services jobs over the next decade. Computer science Masters focus on programming languages, artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, robotics and software development – all skills in high demand. Graduates can pursue well-paid roles such as software developers, computer systems analysts, database administrators, IT consultants and computer systems managers.
Information Technology
Information technology Masters equip students with knowledge across IT systems and services, preparing them for roles managing technology infrastructure. Coursework covers areas like network security, database technology, IT project management and data analytics. With every industry now reliant on IT systems, an information technology Masters can lead to diverse careers in sectors like business, healthcare, government and education.
Data Science
Data science is one of the hottest technology fields, with massive growth projected. A Masters in data science develops highly sought-after analytical and statistical skills to gather, process and interpret vast datasets. Graduates pursue data-driven roles like data analysts, business intelligence analysts and data architects, earning over $95,000 on average.
Cyber Security
With cyber attacks on the rise, professionals skilled in cyber security are in enormous demand. A Masters in cyber security provides training in ethical hacking, network defense, cyber incident response and security operations. Graduates can access roles as information security analysts, computer forensic analysts and penetration testers, protecting sensitive systems and data.
Engineering Management
An engineering management Masters equips students to oversee complex technical projects and teams. The skills developed in operational excellence, quality control, budgeting and resource allocation are highly valued by engineering firms. Typical roles for graduates include engineering project manager, production manager and industrial engineering manager.
Business & Management
Business, management and leadership Masters are consistently popular options for those seeking to accelerate their careers. The advanced business training and strategic management capabilities developed open doors to lucrative management, consulting and analyst roles.
MBA
For ambitious professionals looking to fast-track into senior business positions, an MBA is one of the most recognized Masters worldwide. MBA programs deliver core business, leadership and management skills valued across industries and sectors. Recent data shows 25% salary increases for graduates, with average MBA salaries over $115,000. An MBA qualifies graduates for business roles like marketing manager, financial analyst, operations manager and project manager.
Accounting & Finance
For number crunchers, a Masters in accounting or finance equips students with the quantitative expertise to succeed in the world of corporate finance. Accounting Masters lead to roles as CPAs and auditors, while finance Masters open doors to positions as financial analysts, risk managers and treasury controllers. Employers value the financial modelling, data analysis and regulatory compliance knowledge gained.
Business Analytics
Masters programs in business analytics are increasing in popularity and employability. Covering data analysis tools, statistical models and data visualization, graduates are prepared for high-paying roles in the competitive field of data analytics. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a business intelligence analyst is over $67,000. Employers recruit business analytics Masters graduates across industries for their ability to drive data-based decision making.
Healthcare
With an aging population and growing healthcare needs, Masters programs in healthcare are smart options for those seeking job security and ample employment opportunities. Clinical and administration focused healthcare Masters equip graduates with specialist knowledge tailored to this thriving industry.
Nursing
A Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree qualifies graduates for advanced clinical and leadership roles in healthcare. Specializations like family nurse practitioner and nursing administrator allow professionals to take on greater responsibility and command higher salaries. The advanced patient care and management skills developed make nursing Masters graduates highly employable across healthcare settings.
Healthcare Administration
For managerial positions in healthcare, a Masters in healthcare administration provides sought-after expertise in quality improvement, facility operations, policy development and financial management. Graduates are prepared for administrative roles in hospitals, physician practices, insurance companies, government health agencies and other healthcare organizations.
Public Health
Public health Masters programs equip graduates to address population health issues through education, research and policy. Professionals take on leadership roles developing community health initiatives, analyzing care models and implementing health programs. With a focus on prevention and wellbeing, public health Masters offer diverse career paths with nonprofits, government, hospitals and health agencies.
Law & Criminal Justice
Legal sector Masters degrees allow professionals to specialize and advance their law careers. They provide the focused knowledge needed for specific law and criminal justice professions that require advanced qualifications and expertise.
Law
A Masters of Law (LLM) enables practicing lawyers and law graduates to specialize in a particular area like corporate law, tax law, intellectual property law or human rights law. The advanced legal knowledge and research capabilities make LLM graduates extremely employable worldwide in law firms, government and the corporate sector.
Forensic Science
Forensic science Masters provide the scientific training needed for careers investigating criminal evidence and presenting it in court. Graduates analyze DNA, toxicology reports, blood patterns and digital data to uncover facts. Employers include police departments, crime labs, law firms and government agencies investigating criminal cases.
Criminal Justice
For leadership roles addressing law enforcement, legal policy and criminal behavior, a Masters in criminal justice is a strong choice. Graduates work in corrections, law enforcement, homeland security, criminal psychology and social work roles. Knowledge of the criminal justice system and research capabilities are assets for diverse public sector careers.
Education
A Masters in education is required for licensed teaching positions in many regions and provides specialization for in-demand teaching roles. Education Masters support classroom excellence while opening doors to new career opportunities in curriculum development, education technology, school leadership and policy.
School Administration
To take on leadership positions in schools and school districts, a Masters in educational administration, leadership or policy is often required. Programs prepare graduates for education management careers as principals, directors, deans and superintendents overseeing schools, curricula and teaching policies.
Special Education
A Masters in special education develops expertise in assisting students with special needs and learning disabilities. Graduates qualify for special education teaching and instructional roles, helping deliver individualized education programs. Knowledge of assessment, instructional methods and assistive technologies makes special education Masters highly employable in schools.
Education Technology
Education technology Masters provide knowledge of innovative edtech tools and instructional design to enhance classroom teaching and student learning. Graduates take on technology coordinator roles selecting and implementing education software, digital platforms and virtual learning environments. These skills are invaluable in schools shifting towards blended and online learning.
Environment & Sustainability
With companies and communities increasingly prioritizing environmental sustainability, Masters programs focused on sustainability, climate change and environmental policy offer strong employment outcomes in the public and private sector.
Sustainability Management
A Masters in sustainability management equips graduates to oversee corporate sustainability strategies, environmental initiatives and CSR programs. Coursework covers sustainable business operations, supply chain management, life cycle assessments and reporting. Graduates pursue careers as sustainability managers, CSR consultants and green economy strategists.
Environmental Engineering
Environmental engineering Masters develop specialized expertise in ecological protection and natural resource management. Graduates work on solving pressing environmental challenges through renewable energy systems, waste treatment, water quality monitoring and climate change adaptation. Their engineering skills are highly employable by governments, conservation groups and engineering firms working to promote sustainability.
Environmental Policy & Planning
Graduates trained in environmental policy, law and planning steer governments, corporations and communities towards sustainable development through regulatory frameworks. Masters programs cover policy analysis, environmental regulations, urban planning and stakeholder engagement. Graduates find employment as policy advisors, sustainability consultants, environmental analysts and urban planners.
Psychology & Social Work
Masters programs in psychology and social work allow professionals to provide advanced clinical support and make meaningful social impact. Graduates develop specialized skills to serve individuals and communities through counseling, advocacy, research and targeted interventions.
Clinical Psychology
A Masters in clinical psychology is required for licensing as a mental health counselor or clinical social worker providing therapy. Programs offer advanced training in psychological testing, diagnostics, counseling methods and working with diverse clients and age groups. Graduates are employed in clinics, hospitals, schools and private practices.
Social Work
Social work Masters equip graduates for careers serving vulnerable populations through counseling, program coordination and community action. Coursework covers human rights, social justice, program planning, leadership and clinical practice. Graduates work with diverse groups including children, families, seniors, immigrants and those facing poverty, discrimination or addiction.
Organizational Psychology
A Masters in industrial-organizational psychology produces professionals skilled in analyzing workplace performance, corporate culture and leadership effectiveness. Graduates apply psychological principles to advise organizations on personnel selection, team dynamics, employee motivation and talent development. There is strong demand for organizational psychology skills in human resources and management consulting roles.
Journalism & Strategic Communication
In our media saturated world, Masters programs focused on journalism, public relations and corporate communications provide Graduates with in-demand writing, digital media and messaging skills.
Journalism
A journalism Masters develops sought-after skills in investigative reporting and storytelling across print, broadcast and digital media. Programs cover news writing, editing, publishing, social media strategy and multimedia production. Graduates are employed as reporters, correspondents, editors and digital content producers at major news outlets, websites and organizations with communications needs.
Public Relations
Public relations Masters prepare professionals to manage brand messaging, media relations, events and strategic communications campaigns. Coursework covers PR writing, reputation management, influencer marketing, crisis communications and analytics tracking. Graduates pursue PR careers with agencies or within communications and marketing departments across industries.
Strategic Communications
For communications roles in the corporate and nonprofit sectors, a strategic communications Masters provides relevant skills. Graduates manage internal/external communications, convey organizational missions through effective messaging, engage stakeholders and develop communication plans. Coursework covers brand storytelling, content strategy, digital channels and gauging impact.
Conclusion
When choosing a Masters, focusing on degrees that build in-demand technical expertise, offer strong employment outcomes and provide career advancement opportunities maximizes your investment. Highly employable Masters tend to be in growing fields like technology, engineering, analytics, healthcare, education, sustainability, psychology and strategic communications. Whichever Masters program you pursue, ensure it provides networking opportunities, career support services and practical experience like internships. With the right specialized Masters degree, you can gain an employment edge and reap the rewards of better job prospects and higher lifelong earnings.