The Highest-Paying Master’s Degrees in 2025 - What to Study for Maximum ROI

While some open doors to fulfilling roles in public service or the arts, others are pathways to six-figure salaries, high-demand leadership positions, and industry-specific expertise. So, which master’s degree has the highest pay? Based on research from trusted sources including U.S. News, Forbes, Indeed, and Coursera, the answer depends on the field—but several programs consistently top the charts.

Below, we explore the top-paying master’s degrees, highlight average salary data, and explain why these programs lead the pack.

1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Median Salary: $115,000–$145,000+ depending on role
Top Jobs:
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
- Marketing Director
- Management Consultant
- Product Manager

The MBA remains one of the most lucrative master’s degrees, especially when paired with prior work experience. According to Northeastern University and Forbes, top-tier MBA graduates in consulting, finance, and tech can earn well over $150,000 in base salary, with bonuses pushing total compensation even higher.

Tech-focused MBA holders often land roles in product management, strategic operations, or venture capital, while finance-focused grads enter investment banking or corporate finance—industries known for their generous compensation packages.

🔗 Sources: Northeastern, Forbes, U.S. News

2. Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Median Salary: $110,000–$160,000
Top Jobs:
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Clinical Nurse Specialist

Advanced practice nurses are in high demand due to a shortage of primary care providers. CRNAs, in particular, earn some of the highest salaries in healthcare, often exceeding $200,000, per Indeed and Campus Explorer. NPs also enjoy strong job security and salaries north of $120,000, depending on specialty and location.

An MSN not only delivers high pay but also offers flexible career paths, such as administration, clinical practice, or education.

🔗 Sources: Indeed, Campus Explorer

3. Master of Computer Science / Information Technology

Median Salary: $120,000–$160,000+
Top Jobs:
- Machine Learning Engineer
- IT Manager
- Solutions Architect
- Information Security Analyst

In the age of digital transformation, a Master’s in Computer Science or IT is one of the most profitable investments. Professionals in fields like AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing are commanding top salaries across sectors.

A University of Cincinnati blog notes that machine learning engineers and IT directors often earn over $150,000. Forbes also highlights that master’s degree holders in computer science enjoy some of the highest salary growth compared to those with bachelor’s degrees.

🔗 Sources: UC Online, Coursera, Forbes

4. Master of Engineering (MEng)

Median Salary: $100,000–$140,000
Top Jobs:
- Petroleum Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Robotics Engineer

Engineering remains one of the most consistently high-paying fields. While salaries vary by specialization, petroleum, computer, electrical, and aerospace engineers with master’s degrees regularly command six-figure salaries.

On Reddit, engineers often cite the Master of Engineering as a top ROI degree, especially for those in mechanical and software fields. Advanced roles in R&D, management, and project leadership become accessible with a master's.

🔗 Sources: Reddit, Northeastern, DegreeChoices

5. Master of Finance / Financial Engineering

Median Salary: $110,000–$180,000
Top Jobs:
- Quantitative Analyst
- Investment Analyst
- Risk Manager

Finance-focused master’s degrees, such as an MS in Finance or Financial Engineering, are highly sought-after by investment banks, hedge funds, and fintech firms. Quant roles, especially, offer compensation packages that can exceed $200,000 with bonuses.

While not as general-purpose as an MBA, these degrees offer deep technical and mathematical training that positions graduates for elite financial roles.

🔗 Sources: U.S. News, Forbes

6. Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

Median Salary: $115,000–$130,000
Top Jobs:
- Physician Assistant (PA)

While slightly less known than NPs, Physician Assistants also enjoy high pay and autonomy in clinical settings. The degree offers a great return on investment with relatively short program lengths and immediate employability.

PAs can specialize in surgery, dermatology, or emergency medicine—fields that often push compensation into the upper ranges of six figures.

🔗 Sources: Indeed, Campus Explorer

7. Master of Science in Economics

Median Salary: $100,000–$135,000
Top Jobs:
- Economist
- Policy Analyst
- Data Analyst

Economics grads often work in government, academia, think tanks, or private industry. Those who specialize in data analytics, forecasting, or finance tend to land the most lucrative roles.

With the rise of data-driven decision-making, economists are increasingly valued for their ability to model outcomes and guide policy or strategy.

🔗 Sources: DegreeChoices, Coursera

So, Which One Pays the Most?

If we’re talking about maximum earning potential, the highest-paying master’s degrees are:

Rank	Degree	High-End Salary
1	Master of Business Administration (MBA)	$200,000+
2	Master of Science in Nursing (CRNA/NP)	$200,000+
3	Master of Computer Science / IT	$180,000+
4	Master of Finance / Financial Engineering	$180,000+
5	Master of Engineering (Petroleum/Software)	$160,000+

Final Thoughts

While MBA, MSN, and Computer Science degrees consistently lead to the highest salaries, the “best” degree ultimately depends on your personal interests, aptitude, and long-term goals. For example: