Master’s programs with the highest salary potential

While earnings potential is just one of many factors to consider before attaining your master’s degree, it is an important consideration amidst increases in tuition. According to PayScale’s 2015-2016 College Salary Report, here are the highest paying master’s degree programs:

1. Petroleum Engineering
2. Nurse Anesthesia
3. Electrical & Computer Engineering
4. Biomedical Engineering
5. Electrical Engineering
6. Taxation
7. Electronics & Communications Engineering
8. Technology Management
9. Chemical Engineering
10. Operations Research

You may have noticed that careers in STEM dominate the list. This is due in large part to the overwhelming demand for young professionals in today’s job market who can handle highly specialized and technical work.

When evaluating the earnings potential of your degree, students should take into account the cost of living/location as well as the difference in salary between students with a bachelor’s degree vs. a master’s degree. In some cases, the opportunity cost of pursuing a master’s degree isn’t what you might expect.