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Changing Careers: The 10 Best Master's Degrees to Consider for 2025 Degree, Job, and Salary In­for­ma­tion

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Founder/Senior Editor
B.A., M.Div.
Jeremy Alder has spent over a decade researching and writing about higher education to provided students with the information they need to achieve their goals. He has significant personal experience with career transitions, working as a freelance writer and editor, non-profit director, community organizer, preacher, teacher, retail manager, and carpenter prior to founding College Consensus. Homeschooled from the second grade, Jeremy is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin (B.A., Philosophy) and Duke University Divinity School (M.Div.). He currently lives in North Carolina with his wife, five kids, and a Labradoodle named Hank.

Are you thinking about switching to a new career? You’re not alone. Many people decide to change paths for different reasons. According the World Economic Forum, having many careers will be the norm. Maybe you want to follow a passion, earn more money, or better prepare for the future. Getting a master’s degree can be a great way to make this change. We’ll show you some of the best options out there.

How We Chose These 10 Master’s Degrees for Career Changers

We selected those 10 degrees based on several factors that point to their likely importance and demand in the near future:

  1. Current trends: Many of these fields, like AI, cybersecurity, and data science, are already growing rapidly and this trend is expected to continue.
  2. Technological advancements: Degrees like AI, robotics, and biotechnology are closely tied to emerging technologies that are likely to play increasingly important roles in various industries.
  3. Global challenges: Degrees in renewable energy, sustainability, and healthcare administration address pressing global issues like climate change and healthcare needs.
  4. Changing societal needs: The inclusion of mental health counseling reflects growing awareness and demand for mental health services.
  5. Interdisciplinary nature: Many of these degrees, like UX design and human-robot interaction, combine multiple disciplines, which is often valuable in solving complex future problems.
  6. Market projections: Various reports and analyses from organizations like the World Economic Forum, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and industry experts suggest growth in these areas.
  7. Adaptability: These fields are likely to evolve, requiring professionals to continually learn and adapt, which is valuable in a rapidly changing job market.
  8. Broad applicability: Many of these degrees, like data science and sustainability, can be applied across various industries.

It’s important to note that these predictions are based on current trends and projections. The actual future job market could be influenced by unforeseen events or technological breakthroughs. That’s why we also emphasize the importance of developing adaptable skills alongside specialized knowledge.

Recommended Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

With that said, here’s our list of the top master’s degrees for people seeking a career change.

1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Business skills are useful in almost any job. You’ll learn about leadership, finance, and how companies work. Many programs let you focus on specific areas like healthcare management or technology.

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate degree focused on developing leadership, management, and business skills. It is designed to provide a broad understanding of various business disciplines, including finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and organizational behavior. Students also learn critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills applicable to real-world business challenges.

How Long Does it Take? An MBA program typically takes one to two years to complete for full-time students, although accelerated, part-time, executive, and online MBA programs may offer more flexible timelines.

How Much Will it Cost? The cost of an MBA varies widely depending on the institution and program format. Tuition can range from around $20,000 for more affordable programs to over $100,000 at top business schools. Additional costs like books, fees, and living expenses can also contribute to the overall expense. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer sponsorships may help offset some of these costs.

What Can I Do With It? An MBA is like a Swiss Army knife for careers. It can open doors in many fields, including:

  • Management
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Consulting

Job Outlook: Overall employment in business and financial occupations is projected to grow faster than average over the next 10 years. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With an MBA

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Investment Banker$298K – $557K
Senior Product Manager$209K – $336K
Management Consultant$137K – $249K
Senior Project Manager$129K – $199K
Finance Manager$100K – $260K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online MBA Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

2. Master’s in Computer Science

Tech jobs often pay well and offer flexible work options. Even if you don’t have a tech background, many programs welcome career changers.

A Master’s in Computer Science is a graduate-level degree focused on advanced concepts in computing, programming, and technology. This program typically covers topics like algorithms, software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data structures, cybersecurity, and computer networks. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as data science, robotics, or cloud computing.

How Long Does It Take? The duration of a Master’s in Computer Science program usually ranges from 1 to 2 years, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time and the specific requirements of the institution.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost can vary significantly, ranging from $15,000 to over $50,000 per year, depending on factors like the university, location, and whether you’re attending a public or private institution. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants can help reduce these costs.

What Can I Do With It? In our digital world, tech skills are in high demand. This degree can lead to jobs like:

  • Software developer
  • Data scientist
  • Artificial intelligence specialist

Job Outlook: Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than average over the next 10 years. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs with a Master’s in Computer Science

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Software Architect$203K – $326K
Software Developer$105K – $166K
Security Engineer$149K – $249K
Ai Engineer$158K – $264K
Data Scientist$127K – $206K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Computer Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

3. Master’s in Nursing

Nursing offers a chance to help people directly. Many programs have accelerated options for career changers.

A Master’s in Nursing (MSN) is a graduate degree designed for registered nurses looking to advance their clinical skills, specialize in a particular area, or move into leadership, education, or administrative roles in healthcare. The program focuses on advanced nursing practices, research, healthcare policy, patient care strategies, and specialized knowledge in areas such as family practice, pediatrics, gerontology, or nurse education.

How Long Will It Take? An MSN program typically takes between 1.5 to 3 years to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time and the specific program requirements.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of an MSN degree can vary significantly based on the school and program format. Tuition typically ranges from $20,000 to $60,000 or more, with additional expenses for books, fees, and clinical placement costs. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs are often available to help reduce these costs.

What Can I Do With It? Healthcare always needs good people. A nursing master’s can help you become:

  • Nurse practitioner
  • Nurse educator
  • Healthcare administrator

Job Outlook: Overall employment for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners is expected to grow by 40% over the next 10 years, which is much higher than average. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With a Master’s in Nursing

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)$165K – $284K
Nurse Practitioner (NP)$127K – $181K
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)$107K – $161K
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)$99K – $157K
Nurse Educator$88K – $143K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Nursing Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

4. Master’s in Education

You can make a real difference in students’ lives. Many areas have teacher shortages, so jobs are often available.

A Master’s in Education (M.Ed.) is a graduate degree designed for educators, administrators, and professionals who want to advance their knowledge and skills in teaching, curriculum development, educational leadership, or specialized areas like counseling or special education. The program focuses on educational theories, instructional strategies, assessment techniques, and leadership skills that can be applied in various educational settings.

How Long Will It Take? The duration of an M.Ed. program typically ranges from one to two years for full-time students, with part-time and online options offering more flexible timelines.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of a Master’s in Education can vary significantly based on the institution and program format. Tuition fees generally range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, with additional expenses for books, materials, and other fees. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available to help reduce the overall cost of the degree.

What Can I Do With It? Teaching is a rewarding career that’s always in demand. This degree can prepare you for roles like:

  • Teacher
  • School counselor
  • Education policy analyst

Job Outlook: Overall employment for educators is mixed, with early childhood and post-secondary teachers in high demand, but slower than average growth overall. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With a Master’s in Education

Job TitleAnnual Pay
School Superintendent$110K – $197K
Secondary School Principal$113K – $183K
Postsecondary Education Administrator$59K – $102K
Postsecondary Teacher$51K – $86K
Instructional Coordinators$61K – $102K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Education Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

5. Master’s in Data Science

These skills are needed in almost every industry, from healthcare to finance to tech.

A Master’s in Data Science is a graduate degree that focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to analyze, interpret, and leverage large sets of data to drive decision-making and solve complex problems. The program typically covers areas such as statistical analysis, machine learning, programming, data visualization, big data technologies, and data-driven decision-making.

How Long Will It Take? Most full-time Master’s in Data Science programs take about one to two years to complete, though part-time and online options may be available for those needing more flexibility.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of a Master’s in Data Science can vary widely, ranging from $15,000 to over $60,000 depending on the institution and program format. Additional expenses may include software, technology fees, and other educational materials. Many programs offer financial aid, scholarships, or assistantships to help offset these costs.

What Can I Do With It? Data is the new gold, and companies need people who can understand it. This degree can lead to jobs like:

  • Data analyst
  • Business intelligence specialist
  • Data engineer

Job Outlook: Overall employment of data scientists is projected to grow by 36% over the next 10 years, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With a Master’s in Data Science

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Chief Data Officer$278K – $506K
Data Engineer$109K – $162K
Business Intelligence Analyst$105K – $176K
Data Analyst$87K – $138K
Statistician$107K – $185K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Data Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

6. Master’s in Public Health

Why it’s great: You can work on big issues that affect many people. The COVID-19 pandemic showed how important public health experts are.

A Master’s in Public Health (MPH) is a graduate degree that focuses on improving community health, preventing disease, and promoting wellness on a population level. Students in an MPH program learn about epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and social and behavioral sciences. The program emphasizes research methods, data analysis, and developing strategies for addressing public health challenges.

How Long Will It Take? The duration of an MPH program is typically one to two years for full-time students, though part-time and online options can provide more flexibility.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of a Master’s in Public Health varies widely depending on the institution and program format, ranging from around $15,000 to $50,000 or more. Additional expenses may include books, materials, and fees. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available to help manage the cost of the degree.

What Can I Do With It? If you want to help communities stay healthy, this could be for you. Career options include:

  • Epidemiologist
  • Health policy advisor
  • Community health worker

Job Outlook: Employment of community health workers is projected to grow 13% over the next 10 years, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With a Master’s in Public Health

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Biostatistician$111K – $167K
Epidemiologist$80K – $142K
Health Services Manager$86K – $140K
Health Education Specialist$57K – $90K
Substance Abuse Counselor$58K – $92K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Public Health Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

7. Master’s in Social Work

Why it’s great: You can make a real difference in people’s lives. There are many specialties to choose from based on your interests.

A Master’s in Social Work (MSW) is a graduate degree designed to prepare individuals for advanced practice in social work, focusing on helping people, families, and communities manage challenges in their lives. The program covers topics like human behavior, social policy, clinical practice, mental health, social justice, and community development. Students gain skills in counseling, advocacy, research, and intervention strategies to address social issues.

How Long Will It Take? An MSW program typically takes two years to complete for full-time students, though there are accelerated options that can be completed in one year, as well as part-time and online formats that offer more flexibility.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of an MSW degree varies depending on the institution and program format, with tuition ranging from approximately $15,000 to $60,000 or more. Additional expenses for books, fees, and living costs may also apply. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available to help reduce the overall cost of the program.

What Can I Do With It? For those who want to help others, social work offers many paths:

  • Clinical social worker
  • School social worker
  • Non-profit program manager

Job Outlook: Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 7% over the next 10 years, which is faster than the average for all other occupations. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs with a Master’s in Social Work

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Clinical Social Worker$74K – $116K
Medical Social Worker$69K – $112K
School Social Worker$67K – $107K
Policy Analyst$87K – $148K
Social Services Program Director$54K – $88K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Social Work Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

8. Master’s in Environmental Science

Why it’s great: You can work on some of the biggest challenges facing our planet. This field combines science, policy, and problem-solving.

A Master’s in Environmental Science is a graduate degree focused on studying the natural environment, the impact of human activities on ecosystems, and sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. Students in this program learn about topics such as ecology, environmental policy, climate change, conservation, pollution control, and resource management. The degree combines scientific research with practical skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and environmental planning.

How Long Will It Take? The program typically takes one to two years to complete for full-time students, though part-time and online options can offer more flexible schedules.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of a Master’s in Environmental Science varies depending on the institution and program format, with tuition generally ranging from $15,000 to $60,000 or more. Additional expenses for research materials, fieldwork, and other fees may also be involved. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are often available to help manage the cost of the degree.

What Can I Do With It? As we face climate change, environmental experts are needed more than ever. Jobs include:

  • Environmental consultant
  • Conservation scientist
  • Sustainability manager

Job Outlook: Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 7% over the next 10 years, which is faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs with a Master’s in Environmental Science

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Environmental Engineer$80K – $136K
Environmental Consultant$58K – $100K
Environmental Health Officer$71K – $129K
Urban Planner$79K – $127K
Environmental Technician$47K – $71K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Environmental Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

9. Master’s in User Experience (UX) Design

Why it’s great: These skills are needed in tech, but also in healthcare, finance, and many other fields. It’s a creative job that pays well.

A Master’s in UX Design is a graduate degree focused on user experience and human-centered design principles. The program equips students with the skills needed to create intuitive and engaging digital interfaces, emphasizing user research, information architecture, interaction design, prototyping, and usability testing. Students also learn to apply design thinking and problem-solving strategies to develop innovative solutions for digital products and services.

How Long Will It Take? The duration of a master’s in UX design program typically ranges from one to two years for full-time students, with part-time and online options available for more flexible study.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of a Master’s in UX Design varies depending on the institution and program format, generally ranging from $15,000 to $60,000 or more. Additional expenses for software, materials, and technology might also be required. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid may be available to help offset some of these costs.

What Can I Do With It? In our digital world, making things easy to use is crucial. This degree can lead to jobs like:

  • UX designer
  • Product manager
  • Interaction designer

Job Outlook: Overall employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 8% over the next 10 years, which is faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With a Master’s in UX Design

Job TitleAnnual Pay
UX Director$214K – $351K
Product Designer$136K – $223K
UX Designer$91K – $165K
UX Researcher$91K – $150K
UX Engineer$124K – $204K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online UX Design Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

10. Master’s in Cybersecurity

Why it’s great: There’s a huge demand for these skills, and that’s not likely to change. You can work in many different industries.

A Master’s in Cybersecurity is a graduate degree designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in protecting computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats and attacks. The program covers topics such as network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, risk management, digital forensics, and cybersecurity policy. It focuses on both the technical aspects of cybersecurity and strategic approaches to managing and mitigating security risks.

How Long Will It Take? The duration of a master’s in cybersecurity program typically ranges from 1 to 2 years for full-time students, with part-time and online options available for those needing more flexibility.

How Much Will It Cost? The cost of a master’s in cybersecurity varies widely, with tuition fees ranging from $20,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on the institution and program format. Additional expenses like books, lab fees, and technology costs may also apply. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer reimbursement programs can help offset some of these costs.

What Can I Do With It? As more of our lives move online, keeping information safe is super important. This degree can prepare you for roles like:

  • Information security analyst
  • Ethical hacker
  • Cybersecurity consultant

Job Outlook: Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 33% over the next 10 years, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. (BLS.gov)

Top Paying Jobs With a Master’s in Cybersecurity

Job TitleAnnual Pay
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)$299K – $507K
Cybersecurity Architect$167K – $269K
Cybersecurity Consultant$151K – $263K
Information Security Analyst$112K – $178K
Network Security Engineer$118K – $189K
Source: Glassdoor (Oct 2024)

Recommended Online Cybersecurity Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Should You Get a Master’s Degree for a Career Change?

Obviously only you can answer that question. Let’s look at why a master’s degree can be so helpful when changing careers, and some of the potential drawbacks:

Pros

Skill and Knowledge Acquisition: A master’s degree provides in-depth knowledge and skills specific to a new field, making you more competitive and well-prepared for career shifts.
Credibility and Credentials: It adds credibility to your resume, showing potential employers that you’re serious about your new career path and have invested in relevant education.
Networking Opportunities: Graduate programs often offer networking opportunities with professors, industry professionals, and fellow students, which can be valuable for job placement and career growth.
Higher Earning Potential: In many fields, having a master’s degree can lead to higher earning potential and more advanced job opportunities compared to those without the degree.

Cons

Cost: Graduate school can be expensive, and student loans may add financial burden, especially if the salary increase from the career change is not substantial.
Time Commitment: Pursuing a master’s degree can take a significant amount of time, often ranging from 1 to 3 years, which could be a challenge if you’re already working or need to transition quickly.
Opportunity Cost: During the time you spend earning the degree, you might miss out on work experience or other opportunities that could also help you transition to a new field.
Uncertain ROI (Return on Investment): There’s no guarantee that the degree will lead to the desired career change or salary increase, which means the investment may not always pay off.

Some Tips for Choosing Your Master’s Degree

If you decide to go through with earning a master’s degree, how do you pick the right one? Here are some tips:

  • Think about your interests: What kind of work excites you?
  • Research job prospects: Look at job listings in your area. What degrees do they ask for?
  • Consider your current skills: How can you build on what you already know?
  • Look at program requirements: Some degrees might need specific backgrounds. Others are open to career changers.
  • Think about time and money: How long will the program take? Can you work while studying?
  • Talk to people in the field: Try to chat with someone who has the job you want. Ask about their path.

Remember, changing careers is a big step. It’s okay to take your time deciding. Many of these programs offer part-time or online options, so you can try out classes before committing fully.

Also, keep in mind that a master’s degree isn’t the only way to change careers. Sometimes, certifications or boot camps can be faster and cheaper options. But for many people, a master’s degree offers the deep knowledge and credibility that can make a big difference.

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Ready to start your journey to a better career?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

Ready to start your journey to a better career?

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.