Discover high-paying graduate degree jobs.
Graduate school is a major time and money commitment. But the return on investment can be well worth the cost, as a more advanced credential may help open the door to lucrative jobs. The median weekly earnings for a worker in the U.S. with a master's degree is $1,737, for instance, compared to $1,493 for those with a bachelor's degree, according to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those with just a high school diploma, on the other hand, earn an average of $899 a week. Here are some examples of careers, listed in alphabetical order, where a graduate degree can lead to a job with an annual salary of more than $100,000.
Aerospace engineer
Individuals who are fascinated by space exploration might enjoy a career as an aerospace engineer. Though only a bachelor's degree is necessary for an entry-level position in this field, jobs in research and academia typically require a graduate degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual salary for aerospace engineers was $130,720 in 2023, and the BLS predicts that jobs in this field will increase 6% between 2022 and 2032 – a faster projected growth rate than the average among all U.S. occupations, which is 3%.
Anesthesiologist
When a patient needs surgery and must be put under anesthesia, the doctor who ensures that the patient is safe and feels as little pain as possible is an anesthesiologist. The job of this highly trained specialist sometimes requires making life-or-death, split-second decisions, so good judgment is paramount. The average salary among anesthesiologists in 2023 was $339,470, and the BLS predicts that the number of jobs in this field will increase 3% between 2022 and 2032.
Architectural or engineering manager
When a building is constructed or a machine is made, the person in charge of the project is often an architectural or engineering manager. Architectural managers typically need a master's degree in architecture. Although it's possible to get an engineering management position with only an undergraduate degree, it's common for people to seek a management-related graduate degree such as a Master of Business Administration, or MBA. According to the BLS, the median annual wage within this profession in 2023 was $165,370, and a 4% increase in these jobs is projected between 2022 and 2032.
Astronomer
An astronomer is a scientist who studies celestial bodies using telescopes and other devices. An astronomer's goal is to increase understanding of the universe through compelling research. In exchange, an astronomer can expect to receive a six-figure salary, according to the BLS, which reports that the median annual wage in this field was $127,930 in 2023. The BLS predicts that the number of jobs in this field will be 5% higher in 2032 than in 2022.