best phd degrees to get

Highest Paying Doctorate Degrees [2024 Guide]

We’ve identified the 25 highest paying doctorate degrees. Compare salaries and job prospects.

Completing a PhD may open up doors in terms of career advancement. Plus, it may not take as long as you think to complete if you enroll in the shortest doctoral programs .

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The following list contains the highest paying doctorate degrees along with career outlook and job growth statistics.

25 Highest Paying Doctorate Degrees

All career statistics and salary data are provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics .

Click on the area of study you’re interested in to jump to that section.

Aerospace Engineering

Chemical engineering, pharmacology, business administration, cybersecurity, electrical engineering, data science, biochemistry, information security assurance, biomedical engineering, information technology and computer science, occupational therapy, criminal justice, engineering, organic chemistry.

While all of these industries are growing, some provide better job prospects than others.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $208,000
• Job Growth: 4%

One of the more specialized high paying doctorate programs is in immunology. Immunology is the study of disease prevention and immunity. Due to the specialized nature of the study here, jobs are typically well paid and much more specific.

A person who has studied immunology may be expected to work in research or academia but is also likely to land high-paying roles within the medical industry and at hospitals. The demand for this area of expertise is also rising faster than the average job growth, meaning there should be plenty of opportunities for graduates.

A PhD in immunology is a lot of hard work and is, therefore, suited to someone who already has considerable experience working in the medical industry. Those with an academic background in medicine should consider applying for an immunology program.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $129,850
• Job Growth: 7%

Of the three main sciences, physics can be the one that is the most fruitful for taking a doctorate. People who take a PhD in physics are likely to land themselves a position as either a researcher or a professor.

There are also several other high paying positions that are possible for someone who takes this career path, including more specialized roles or becoming lead physicists and consultants.

Physics is also one of the job markets that is predicted to see a considerable amount of growth for the next 10 years. Pursuing a physics doctorate can be perfect for someone who already has experience in physics or someone who already has either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the subject combined with some practical experience.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $118,610
• Job Growth: 3%

Aerospace engineering is a field that would likely attract those who already have a background in either science or engineering. It is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, and demand for jobs is expected to increase as the years roll by. So the length it takes to get a PhD should be taken into consideration so you can quickly enter this field during its booming growth.

The doctorate focuses on the engineering of various different types of spacecraft and can be incredibly demanding. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the salary potential for this field is as high as $171,220.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $110,860

Math may not be the glamorous subject to study at doctorate level, but it can open up a wide range of potentially lucrative career options.

Math can allow students to work in various sectors of the economy and business, and they may also work in research or as a math lecturer or professor at a top university.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $109,760
• Job Growth: 5%

Taking a doctorate in management can be a logical step in the career of someone who has a history of working in business, project management, or the economy as well as several other sectors.

Earning this doctorate can open up chief executive roles within companies and roles like chief operations officer and supply chain management. It may also lead to regional and national management roles.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $108,540

Another engineering-based field that presents doctorate students with some big money career options is chemical engineering. The field combines a number of different disciplines, including all of the sciences, math, and statistics, as well as engineering.

It is a complex doctorate to take, but the rewards may be worth the effort, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing salaries up to $168,960 available in this field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $108,350
• Job Growth: 14%

One of the most popular PhDs to take is in economics. Economics is a social science that studies and theories about the production and consumption of goods and the effect that this has on society and the economy.

Taking a PhD in economics may open up a lot of doors. Working in the financial sector is usually lucrative, and a doctorate in economics can help give you an edge over competitors in what is a notoriously feisty industry. Top earners can make around $198,230 per year.

Economics analysis is a skill that is highly sought after, especially in the medical, legal, and education sectors.

While on the face of it, some people may believe that studying economics leaves you consigned to an office for the majority of your working life, the reality is that it can open up a lot of doors in a lot of different sectors. It may also provide you with a lot of travel opportunities and chances to meet new people.

A doctorate in economics may be perfect for someone who already has some experience in the field or for someone who has studied economics, math, finance, or business to a higher level and wants to take the next step in their academic and professional career.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $107,270
• Job Growth: 6%

Pharmacology is big business these days, and taking a doctorate in the subject may lead to some lucrative opportunities. It is expected that someone who wants to study pharmacology will have a background in the subject with a master’s degree being heavily preferred.

There are a lot of pre-requisites for getting onto a pharmacology doctorate program, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics is showing salaries going as high as $164,980.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $103,650

Getting a doctorate in business administration can open up a lot of doors. Students who end up taking their doctorate in business administration often end up working as leading and chief executives as well as entrepreneurs and financial advisors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for someone with a doctorate in this field can be as high as $208,000. It can be ideal for someone who has a background in business or economics who wants to take the next step in their career.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $103,590
• Job Growth: 31%

As the world of IT continues to grow, so does the demand for more and more cybersecurity. The field is one of the fastest-growing in the world, and getting a doctorate in the subject may land you a range of different high paying jobs.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roles like IT managers can offer doctorates a salary of up to $208,000. This sector is also constantly growing, and as such, the demand and the salaries should continue to grow as time passes.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $100,830

When it comes to job demand, electrical engineering is one of the safest career paths to go down. Electrical engineering has a huge impact on our day-to-day lives.

Most of our day-to-day electrical appliances exist as a result of electrical engineering, and taking a doctorate in the field may open the door to some pretty lucrative research and project management positions. It is advised that someone who takes a PhD in electrical engineering already have practical experience in the field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $98,490

A doctorate in education can open up a lot of different career options in that sector. A lot of doctors of education end up working in either research or in top positions at schools as principals and superintendents.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for someone working in education administration with a doctorate is around the $199,400 mark. A number of doctor of education programs do not require a dissertation .

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $98,230

Data is quickly becoming the most valuable commodity on the planet, and as such, the demand for data specialists and researchers is growing at an impressive rate.

Data science doctorates offer a gateway into these positions, and they usually come with some pretty high salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, salary for a data scientist can go as high as $165,230, and with this field ever-expanding, the demand for these positions should continue to increase.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $94,270

Biochemists study the chemical and physical makeup of living organisms. Due to the specialized nature of the subject, research positions in this sector typically pay incredibly well.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, biochemist doctorates can start out at around $67,710 but can increase up to $169,860 or more. This doctorate may suit someone with a background in chemistry or some other science discipline.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $92,870

Information assurance is a new discipline that has been created as a result of the times we live in. Information assurance is effectively another type of cybersecurity that is designed to protect people’s data from third parties and other potentially dangerous sources.

A background in any sort of computer or data-related field can be ideal for getting onto an information assurance course. Due to the increasing demand for data protection, jobs in this sector can be particularly lucrative, and the demand for these jobs is expected to increase as time rolls on.

The demand for experts in this industry is very high and is only predicted to grow over the next decade.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $92,620

Biomedical engineering is becoming an incredibly popular field of research. It is an ever-growing and developing industry, and as such, the demand for expertise in the area is on the rise.

Getting a PhD in biomedical engineering is likely to secure you a lucrative research job for a university or a job in a hospital or the medical industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average salary in this field for a senior position ranges from $127,980 to $169,860.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $92,270
• Job Growth: 35%

Statistics is one of the most versatile doctorates available today. Statistics are used in a wide range of different sectors, including finance, research, business, health care, government, and many others.

A doctorate in statistics can be ideal for someone who has a background in math or business. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top salary for someone working in statistics can be as high as $150,840.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $91,250
• Job Growth: 11%

The world of IT is constantly growing, and as it does, the demand for experts grows with it. Getting a doctorate in information technology and computer science can be an incredibly lucrative career move, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing top earners taking home as high as $208,00.

The jobs that can be accessed, such as chief technology officers or research roles within the industry, tend to be incredibly well-paid. This doctorate attracts people who have backgrounds in IT-related fields, such as computer science or computer programming.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $86,280
• Job Growth: 16%

For someone who already has experience working in occupational therapy, earning a doctorate in the field can be a huge benefit. Not only can it open the door for them to move up in the industry, but it can also expand their knowledge of the subject area.

It can provide them with theory-based research while also working on their leadership and management skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational therapists holding a doctorate degree may reach a salary as high as $122,670.

The job growth for this doctorate is also incredibly high, which means it may be an excellent career path to enter in terms of job security.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $86,110

The number of career options that are available to someone who has a doctorate in criminal justice is typically vast. Working as a criminologist, a criminal justice researcher, or a federal law agency admin can earn graduates a lot of money.

This course of study is best suited for someone who already has real-world experience working in the criminal justice or law sector.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $83,160

Engineering jobs are almost always in demand, and while there are a lot of high paying jobs available for those who have an undergraduate or master’s degree, taking a doctorate in the field can really help you advance your career.

An engineering degree is already one of the highest paying associate degrees , highest paying bachelor degrees , as well as one of the highest paying masters degrees , but the doctorate can be perfect for someone who already has experience working in engineering and wants to take that next step in their career.

A director of engineering job title and other project management positions may offer some very high salaries, about $208,000 or more, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $82,180

With the stigma around mental health finally disappearing, the demand for jobs in psychology is on the rise. While a normal degree or masters in psychology may allow you to get jobs as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, higher-paying positions can become available following a doctorate.

It may also open up roles in research and as a university lecturer in the subject. The doctorate is suited to someone who already has their masters in psychology or who has a significant amount of experience working in the field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $80,790
• Job Growth: 9%

Getting a degree in philosophy can potentially lead to a surprisingly lucrative career in research or working as a lecturer. The doctorate is suited for someone who wants to work in research and who has a background in philosophy or religious studies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries in this field are around $80,790 per year working in a research role, and up to $180,360 for college professors.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $79,300

Organic chemistry, perhaps more than any of the other sciences, can open up a lot of different career options for doctorates. As well as research and academic positions, someone who studies organic chemistry may be able to land a job in a number of different areas, including geology, the pharmaceutical industry, and engineering.

Organic chemistry is a notoriously difficult subject to study, though, so it is vital that you have a solid background in chemistry and some work experience before attempting to join the program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries can go as high as $139,650 in this field.

• Annual Median Salary (Bureau of Labor Statistics): $69,000
• Job Growth: 2%

A doctorate in English can open a range of different academic doors for potential students. A PhD in English may be perfect for someone who already has an academic background in the subject and can also be perfect for qualified teachers and writers looking to take the next step in their career.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a doctorate in English may qualify you for a potential career in a lecturing position with salaries as high as $180,360, as well as positions within the publishing industry.

What Are the Different Types of Doctorate Degrees?

There are six common types of terminal degrees.

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Traditionally reserved for those who want to remain in the world of academia, Ph.D. degrees focus on maximizing your ability to impart this advanced knowledge to incoming students. Outside of teaching, Ph.D. candidates also focus on pushing the limits of research and theoretical study within their chosen fields.
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – The DBA experience is all about turning your terminal research in the areas of finance, marketing, accounting, and other related fields into applicable real-world skills. DBA graduates traditionally work in the corporate sector as executive officers and other ranking members of various managerial teams.
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) – PsyD students aim to provide clinical services within a wide range of settings, including group, familial, medical, scholastic, and even corporate environments. Earning this degree can give you the power to serve as a practicing clinician or specialized counselor.
• Doctor of Education (EdD) – Capturing an EdD degree is the first step toward a leadership role within the corporate and administrative side of the education field. Working as a principal, district supervisor, or even regional superintendent all fit into the professional path of this degree.
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW) – If you’re interested in educating others on the best practices and leading theories of modern social work and community interaction, then a DSW program could be your option. Holders of this degree research and educate others in the social work field via hands-on training in the classroom and the office, as well as provide answers and guidance in unique or exceptional social issue cases.
• Doctor of Public Health (DPH) – Like most of the other degrees in this review, earning a DPH is all about the desire to lead others in a chosen workplace environment. In this case, that means maintaining residency as an administrator or public health coordinator at a hospital or a similar clinical setting.

The type of doctorate degree you will want to earn depends on your career goals and primarily whether you want to teach the subject or continue working in your field.

Campus or Online: Which One Is Right for You?

It’s no big secret that whichever doctorate route you choose, you will most likely be rewarded for your hard work and research via ample compensation. However, you can make this process a little easier on yourself by focusing on a path – either online or on-campus – that suits your unique needs and daily requirements.

While the appeal of the traditional college experience is the major selling point for the on-campus approach, working on your degree from home is a flexible alternative that can shape and mold itself to your current personal and professional schedule by allowing you to work on your research and coursework at your own pace.

Adding in that these doctorate programs often waive Graduate Record Examination (GRE) minimum scores based on your GPA, as well as reduce or completely remove residency requirements, is further proof that this approach is at least worth your consideration as you plan out your academic future.

Questions Related to Earning a Doctorate

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have.

How Much Do PhD Graduates Earn?

PhD Graduates make on average close to $100,000, with some job positions paying nearer the $70,000 mark and others going well about $208,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

There may be some who question whether it is worth taking the time to invest in a PhD. Doctorate programs require a lot of time and effort, but studies suggest that PhD students typically earn more and find it easier to attract higher-paying jobs than those with just an undergraduate or a master’s degree.

What Are the Highest Paying Degrees?

A lot of degrees can lead to well-paying jobs. The more specialized a degree is in a certain field, the higher the chances are that it will be well paying. These degrees currently tend to be those in the engineering sector, as these are the ones that offer the most in-demand jobs.

What Is the Highest Paying PhD Degrees?

Once again, this one will depend on how specialized your PhD is and how in-demand that expertise is at a given time. Engineering PhDs tend to be evergreen, while there is an increasing demand for those with PhDs and knowledge in computer science and other IT related subjects.

PhDs usually provide those who have them with a lot of the highest paying jobs opportunities.

Are There Any Degrees Higher than a PhD?

No, there are no higher degrees than a PhD.

A PhD, also regularly referred to as just a doctorate, is as high as you can go academically. It is a specialized research doctorate that demonstrates a high level of expertise in a field. Most people who obtain their PhD tend to stay on at universities as either a member of a research team or as a lecturer.

Do you need a masters to get a PhD ? While many PhD programs require you to earn a masters first, it is possible to earn your PhD without having earned a masters. These are the direct entry bachelor’s to PhD programs offered by some universities.

Getting Your Doctorate Degree

It is important that you take the time to do your research into what doctorate will help your career the most. Once you have done this, you can begin to find the right university and program for you and begin the next step in your academic and professional career.

Now that you understand your career prospects and doctorate opportunities, it’s time to lay out the blueprint for a successful future.

Outside of conducting research on each of the areas that interest you, feel free to use the search tool below to find accredited universities that offer online doctoral programs in your chosen field.

When paired up with the rest of what you’ve learned here, there’s nothing that can stop you from finding the right school – and program of study – to fit your personal and professional goals moving forward.

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Top 10 Highest Paying PhD Degrees in 2024

The highest possible degree you can get in any field is a doctorate or a PhD. Obtaining a doctoral degree can help to greatly further your career, but unfortunately, PhDs aren’t always that easy to earn. The average time a doctoral candidate spends to receive their PhD is anywhere from seven to ten years, and during this time, it also becomes a balancing act.

However, if you manage to earn your PhD, you stand to increase your salary by a significant amount. Chances are, you might also find more opportunities in the future.

The best doctorate degrees are always the ones that you’re passionate about. But, if you find yourself asking, “what should I get my PhD in?,” this list of the highest paying PhDs might just help you out if you’re looking to have a lucrative career.

Looking to get a master’s instead? Check out: Highest Paying Master’s Degrees You Can Get in 2024

Table of Contents

What’s the Best PhD to Get?

If you’re trying to figure out the best-paid PhD, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 fields with the highest earning potential.

Here are some quick facts:

• The PhD with the highest mid-career salary is in Chemical Engineering , with an average salary of $146,000 . This field also has a pretty good early career, with the average salary sitting at $96,100 .
• When it comes to the highest early career earnings, a PhD in Computer Science  is  your best bet since the average salary is $118,000 . This field also has one of the highest $145,000 .

It’s worth noting that your earning potential in any given field can also depend on your location. For example, a doctorate in computer science might earn you more money in San Francisco or other similar tech hubs. The best PhD degrees, at least for earning potential, can depend on where you intend to work.

Here are the best PhD degrees by salary, ranked from lowest to highest.

Of course, the best doctorate degree for you depends on your particular situation. When answering the question “what should I get my PhD in?,” consider your preferences and interests as well as what you want to do in the future.

Top 10 Highest Paying PhD Degrees

The salary figures of the highest-paid PhD degrees depicted in this article were taken from PayScale , based on data of those with PhDs.

10) Statistics

Salary in Early Career: $105,000

Salary in Mid Career: $131,000

BLS 2020-2030 Job Growth Outlook: 33%, much faster than average

Statisticians collect and analyze data via various statistical methods. They help various businesses, organizations, and even the healthcare industry collect and interpret data so they can solve problems, strategize, and plan ahead.

If you want a career as a statistician, you’ll need to have an undergraduate degree and a master’s degree at a minimum. Having a PhD in Statistics can help increase your earning potential by giving you an advantage over your peers.

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) has the job outlook for mathematicians and statisticians growing by a projected 33% rate throughout 2020-2030. According to their website , this is a much faster growth rate than the average growth other fields are experiencing. It appears that statistics  qualifies for the most in-demand PhD degree — on this list, at least. Therefore we can suggest it as the best PhD for jobs, since it’ll be pretty easy to find one once you graduate.

9) Biomedical Engineering

Salary in Early Career: $88,100

Salary in Mid Career: $133,000

BLS 2020-2030 Job Growth Outlook: 6%, on the low end of average

In simple terms, biomedical engineering is the fusion of engineering, medicine, and biology. In particular, in this field, problem-solving techniques and principles used by engineering are applied to the fields of biology and medicine for healthcare. It’s an interdisciplinary field that is growing in popularity over time.

Biomedical engineering is continually evolving thanks to the constant pursuit of knowledge. Because of this, the field continues to grow and can always use people who know theory and are well versed in the life sciences.

Getting a PhD in this field can open up opportunities for you in a variety of areas. You can work in research, at universities, in manufacturing, and even in hospitals. A doctorate is required if you want to work in research or at universities.

The BLS  states that jobs in the biomedical engineering field are projected to grow at a 6% rate over the following seven years.

Salary in Early Career: $93,700

BLS 2020-2030 Job Growth Outlook: 7%, about average

If you’re interested in becoming a physicist, you’ll definitely need a PhD . Most careers for physicists, particularly in research and academia, require you to have a doctoral degree in the field. You can become a research advisor, a physics professor, a (lead) physicist, or a researcher.

According to the BLS , the job outlook for physicists is looking good. The projections are positive, sitting at a 7% increase until 2024, and this rate is on par with the average national growth rate for most occupations.

7) Engineering

Salary in Early Career: $93,600

Salary in Mid Career: $137,000

The world always needs engineers. However, a doctoral degree is not always necessary if you want to work as an engineer — unless, of course, you want to work in research. Research opportunities in the engineering field are only given to PhD candidates or graduates.

You can choose to go for a general track or a specialty such as materials science, mechanical engineering, computer engineering, and chemical engineering. If you have a PhD in engineering , you can take positions like project manager, engineering director, and specialty positions like aerospace engineer or chemical engineer.

6) Physical Chemistry

Salary in Early Career: $73,600

Salary in Mid Career: $138,000

Although the early career salary for PhD graduates of physical chemistry is one of the lowest on this list, it ramps up and is one of the highest-earning on this list in the mid-career.

But what exactly is physical chemistry?

Physical chemistry is a branch of chemistry that applies the theories and techniques of physics to chemical systems (or the study thereof). It’s the study of the behavior of matter on the atomic and molecular levels. Alongside this, physical chemistry is also the study of chemical reactions.

As a physical chemist, you’ll most likely work in labs and research facilities. These research opportunities are awarded only to those with PhDs, and a PhD can also open the door for even more lucrative careers in high-tech or materials science.

The job growth and outlook for physical chemists are below average. However, the average annual wage makes it one of the most profitable ones.

5) Pharmacology

Salary in Early Career: $75,400

Salary in Mid Career: $141,000

BLS 2020-2030 Job Growth Outlook: -2% decline

Pharmacology is the study of drugs and drug actions, or how drugs work within the body. It’s a branch of biology, medicine, and the pharmaceutical sciences. Having a PhD in pharmacology can help you find careers in research.

PhD programs  in this field often build upon other areas, such as biochemistry, molecular bio, cell bio, physiology, and neuroscience. Depending on the track you choose, you can become a researcher in a particular field.

Pharmacology can also lead you to a career as a pharmacist.

The average early career wages for pharmacists are low because it can depend on location or position. For example, pharmacists who work at grocery stores or drug stores often earn less than their entry-level researcher counterparts.

Unfortunately, the current rate of growth for this field is -2%  from 2020-2030. So while there will still be opportunities, it may be harder to find a job.

4) Electrical Engineering

Salary in Early Career: $103,000

Salary in Mid Career: $144,000

If you have a PhD in electrical engineering, you stand to earn quite a good amount of money. Electrical engineering has one of the highest average early-career salaries and one of the highest mid-career to boot.

Electrical Engineering is the application and study of mathematics  and physics combined with electromagnetism, electronics, and electricity. This discipline deals with the research and design of systems, equipment, and devices that use electricity. The results of electrical engineering are seen in day-to-day life. The advances humanity has made in the field have resulted in modern-day staples like the radio and the television.

A doctorate in engineering can help you go into research. If you are more of an idea generator, you can pursue a career in invention and product development. This discipline had plenty of opportunities in various fields such as transportation, computing, manufacturing, and aviation.

3) Computer Science

Salary in Early Career: $118,000

Salary in Mid Career: $145,000

BLS 2020-2030 Job Growth Outlook: 22%, much faster than average

Computer Science is one of the highest-paying fields, both in early and mid-career salary averages. A doctorate in this field allows graduates to become experts in certain computer science subfields. If you want to get a PhD in this field, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree or a master’s in computer science .

If you choose to research in this field, you’ll need a doctorate to qualify for research opportunities. You can also find non-academic careers as an information research scientist, a hardware engineer, programming, and even robotics. It truly comes as no surprise that Computer Science is one of the best-paid PhD programs considering technology continues to progress over the years.

The job outlook for this field is expected to grow by 22%  until 2030, making it one of the best and most in-demand PhDs on this list

2) Organic Chemistry

Salary in Early Career: $83,400

Salary in Mid Career: $146,000

Organic chemistry shares a spot with #1 for the highest-paying PhD, at least for mid-career salaries. However, early wages are lower, which earns this field its #2 spot on this list.

If you want to pursue a career in organic chemistry, earning a PhD in this field can get you a research position, and you may even find yourself leading a research team. However, to qualify for advanced research positions, you’ll need a PhD in the field from an accredited institution whose programs are approved by the ACS or the American Chemical Society.

You may also find jobs in academia as a professor.

1) Chemical Engineering

Salary in Early Career: $96,100

BLS 2020-2030 Job Growth Outlook: 9%, on the high end of average

Sitting at number one on this list is chemical engineering. This branch of engineering combines various fields into one, and you’ll see physics, chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry, and math . This interdisciplinary field helps solve problems related to fuel, food, chemicals, or drugs.

If you earn a PhD in chemical engineering, you may find yourself prepared with expert-level knowledge of the current research findings, practices, and the core fundamentals of the field. After you graduate, you may find opportunities in research and academia and find jobs in areas like biotechnology.

Paying for Your PhD

One obstacle that many doctoral candidates run into is the cost of earning a PhD. If you find yourself wondering how you can afford to pay for your PhD, there are a few common ways you can ease the financial load.

• Student loans  – Many PhD candidates take out student loans to help them afford the tuition and living expenses while working on their doctorate full (or even part) time. You can choose to take out a loan for the full tuition plus living costs, or you can take a smaller loan to cover only a part of the expenses.
• Scholarships, grants, and fellowships  – Savvy PhD candidates seek out scholarships, grants, and fellowship opportunities to help them pay off their tuition and living expenses more easily.

Related: Graduate School Scholarships Guide

• Seek financial support from your employer – Some employers help support their employees’ education by offering partial or full scholarships as they seek higher education. This option may not always be possible, of course, as it depends on the field you are pursuing and whether it has any relation to your current place of employment.
• Teach where you are studying  – One of the most common ways doctoral students earn extra financial support for their studies is through teaching — particularly at the school in which they are studying. Teaching can help students cut down on tuition costs as many educational institutions may offer lower rates for their studies. Some colleges and universities will even offer teaching assistant positions that offer flexibility and enough compensation to cover part of the tuition costs.

Already decided on going to grad school? Here’s everything you need to apply .

Frequently Asked Questions

Which phd has the highest salary.

According to this list of the highest paying PhD degrees, the current most lucrative PhD is Organic Chemistry.

Can PhDs make a lot of money?

Yes, but the road there can be long and winding. There are also many factors that can affect how much you earn, such as your location, industry, position, and even your employer. Additionally, “a lot of money” is relative — what do you consider a lot of money? It may benefit you to check out salary information on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website or on websites like PayScale or Salary.com. Check if the average earnings meet your expectations before making your decision on your PhD.

Is a PhD worth it for salary increases?

The BLS says that in 2020, those with a PhD earned median weekly salaries more than 20%  more than those with just a bachelor’s degree. It can depend on the field and the position, but this does appear to be the case generally. Data also shows that doctorate holders can earn significantly more over their lifetimes. For example, male PhDs earn as much as $1.5 million more  compared to high school graduates. Female PhDs earn $1.1 million more on average.

Do PhDs get paid more than master’s degree holders?

Yes. According to the World Education Services ( WES ), doctorate holders do earn more than those with master’s degrees. However, how much more they earn depends on their field. For example, engineering PhDs only earn 7% more than master’s degree holders in the field. However, in the field of psychology, you can earn up to 33% more if you have a PhD rather than a master’s.

Does job location matter when considering the highest paying doctorate degrees?

In any form of employment, your location matters. In fact, aside from your field or line of work, your location may be the next biggest determinant of your salary. The same is true even if you don’t have a PhD. For example, if you work in the field of information technology or computer science, you’ll most likely have a higher salary in places like San Francisco or Seattle.

You’ll likely find plenty of PhDs in some of the most lucrative industries in a certain city or state. IT and Computer Science PhD holders will often find the highest-paying opportunities in tech hubs  around the country. Geologists will find the highest-paying work in areas rich in natural resources. Researchers, on the other hand, will likely find the best-paying work in areas with research universities and institutions.

Many of the highest-earning jobs for PhDs are located in cities or states where their specific industry is highly supported.

Are there any degrees higher than a PhD?

Nope! The PhD, also known as the doctorate or doctoral degree, is the highest possible academic degree you can earn. PhDs are specialized degrees often earned through research. They demonstrate an extremely high level of understanding of the subject and expertise in your field. A lot of people who earn their PhD usually go on to stay in academia to teach or continue their research.

Choosing the Best Doctoral Degrees

It’s not always about answering the question, “What’s the highest paying PhD?” In the end, choosing the best doctoral degree for you comes down to a matter of preference and interest.

Earning a PhD is seldom easy — but with hard work, you can set yourself up for a bright future ahead with a lucrative yet fulfilling career.

Chriselle Sy

Chriselle has been a passionate professional content writer for over 10 years. She writes educational content for The Grad Cafe, Productivity Spot, The College Monk, and other digital publications.  When she isn't busy writing, she spends her time streaming video games and learning new skills.

• Chriselle Sy https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/chriselle-sy/ Graduate Certificate vs Degree: What’s the Difference? [2024 Guide]
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The 8 Best PhD Programs To Pursue In 2021

Updated: October 25, 2023

Published: June 24, 2021

Pursuing a PhD is a major life choice for most people, but one that nearly always pays off in the form of better career opportunities. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees, some choose to continue on to a PhD program to broaden their knowledge, earn a higher salary, and/or work in a more specific niche.

There are various reasons for getting a PhD. Some people might want to work in research or academia, where a PhD is required, and others simply enjoy learning a subject in depth. Whatever the reason is, getting a PhD is sure to open a lot of doors. 

There are some areas of study where a PhD is more expected than others. It’s good to get a general idea of the most common PhD programs to understand if you’ll need to take one and if it’s right for you. Keep reading to learn more about PhDs, if you should take one, and what are the best programs. 

Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash

What is a PhD?

PhD is short for Doctor of Philosophy. 

Essentially, a PhD is the highest level of schooling and degree a student can get, so after completing a PhD, you’re often considered a top expert in your field.

Most of the time, this degree qualifies someone to teach the subject they studied at a university level, so if you want to work as a professor, then you’ll need to earn a PhD. 

Most PhD programs last three to four years, but this can vary depending on where you’re studying and the topic and scope of your research. 

At the end of the degree, you’ll often have to present original research or a dissertation that you conducted in the duration of your studies. Some places require you to defend your research in an oral defense in order to receive your doctorate degree. 

Why Should You Get a PhD?

Many people wonder whether or not a PhD is right for them . The truth is, there are a lot of reasons people opt to continue their education with a PhD. Working in academia is just one reason to do a PhD, but there are a number of other things to take into consideration when choosing to do a doctorate degree, like gaining a huge advantage in the job market.  

PhD students often have large aspirations to do work that allows them to achieve significant breakthroughs. Especially in the fields of science and technology, a PhD gives you the tools to understand your field on a deeper level, which can help push your research to new levels.

It’s also common for PhD students to be interested in discovery. During your PhD, you work closely with other experts, so the chances of discovering or learning something totally new are much higher than in your bachelor’s or master’s degree. 

Overall, PhD students have an insatiable sense of curiosity that drives them to pursue the highest levels of education.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Best PhD Programs

There are many different PhD programs out there, and the one you choose will depend on the degrees you’ve earned up until now as well as your personal preferences. 

Here are just a few of the best PhD programs you can study to increase your employability and deepen your knowledge and expertise.

Accounting and Finance

With a PhD in Accounting and Finance, you’ll be able to get more knowledge in financial research methods and theory. During your PhD studies, you’ll acquire both critical and analytical skills and you’ll learn how to assemble high-level financial reports. 

With this degree, you’ll be able to work in any financial institution or corporate environment. Some of the positions you can get include account manager or chief financial officer.

Applied Mathematics

Since math applies to so many things, with this degree, you’ll be able to work in a number of fields, including technology, engineering, business, and more. With a PhD in Applied Mathematics, you’ll acquire a more fine-tuned understanding of topics and concepts like problem-solving, communication skills, analytical thinking and reasoning, and a lot more. 

This degree is ideal if numbers and equations are your passion and you want to work with them on a high level of research. 

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering is becoming an increasingly popular area of study since it’s such an important part of modern medicine and science. In this degree, you’ll research topics in fields such as computer engineering, life sciences, mathematics, and more. 

The goal of this program is to understand how to use modern technology in practice and in research. Common jobs after graduation include becoming a research scientist or biomedical engineer. 

Business Administration

As one of the most popular degrees at any level, a PhD in this field will be sure to land you a job in a business leadership position. During your degree, you’ll enhance your analytical and reasoning skills in order to understand how to make better business decisions. You’ll also improve your management skills, paving the way for a role in leading companies of any size. 

Typically, graduates with a PhD in Business Administration can expect to work as a Chief Executive Officer, business professor, or operations manager.

With a PhD in Statistics, you’ll likely end up working as a statistician. In this position, you can work with various businesses to help them analyze data and solve issues. During your studies, you’ll further your collaborative skills and study advanced methods of computation, formulations, as well as advanced equations, and how to solve problems. 

Many industries hire statisticians, such as governments, healthcare, financial institutions, as well as scientific institutions. 

Computer Science

In a PhD in Computer Science , you’ll work on mastering a specific area of computer science and developing and designing creative projects that are relevant to your subject. You’ll likely work on an independent project as part of your studies. 

Graduates from this degree don’t only work in academic settings, but they’re also likely to become computer research scientists. Other possible roles with this PhD degree include computer hardware engineer, robotics, programming, and more. 

If you’re looking to conduct studies or research in this field, then you’ll need a PhD in Economics. As part of this degree, you’ll conduct a research project and you’ll learn how to conduct advanced scholarly research. 

Many people who graduate with a PhD in Economics go on to work as economics professors, economists, work with governments, or as other types of specialists in this field.

Organic Chemistry

It’s common for people who pursue a higher degree in organic chemistry to have a background in chemical engineering, so if this sounds like you, then this PhD can be a good option. During your PhD, you’ll conduct research and work with other experts. 

Most graduates with a degree in organic chemistry find jobs teaching at the university level or leading advanced research and study teams.

Should You Get a PhD Online?

As studying online becomes more popular, it’s not uncommon for students to seek out online PhD programs. Since a lot of the work in a PhD is independent study and research anyways, it’s not difficult to make the jump to an online program. 

With an online PhD program, you’ll get flexibility in terms of when you want to do your coursework, you’ll find it convenient to study from anywhere, and the online PhD programs are usually more affordable since you don’t need to factor in moving or being on campus to complete your degree. 

Best Online PhD Programs

While the offered PhD programs will depend on the university, here’s a short list of great schools in the US to consider for an online PhD. These schools are affordable and offer online courses, seminars, exam preparation, and more. 

• Concordia University-Chicago , River Forest, IL
• University of the Cumberlands , Williamsburg, KY
• Winona State University , Winona, MN
• Otterbein University , Westerville, OH
• Union University , Jackson, TN 
• University of South Dakota , Vermillion, SD
• Texas Tech University , Lubbock, TX
• Clemson University, Clemson, SC
• University of Florida , Gainesville, FL
• Endicott College , Beverly, MA

Choosing to get a PhD is not a decision most make lightly, so it’s important to get a good idea of the different PhD programs out there and find one that really fits your academic and professional goals. 

If you’re still in the earlier stages of your higher education, you might want to consider taking your undergraduate or graduate degree online as well. University of the People offers multiple great online BA and MA programs in majors like computer science , health science , and business administration . The best part? All the programs are tuition-free. 

Related Articles

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

Additional Information

• Download the Doctoral Viewbook
• Admissions & Aid

The Harvard Ph.D. in Education trains cutting-edge researchers who work across disciplines to generate knowledge and translate discoveries into transformative policy and practice.

Offered jointly by the Harvard Graduate School of Education and the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the Ph.D. in Education provides you with full access to the extraordinary resources of Harvard University and prepares you to assume meaningful roles as university faculty, researchers, senior-level education leaders, and policymakers.

As a Ph.D. candidate, you will collaborate with scholars across all Harvard graduate schools on original interdisciplinary research. In the process, you will help forge new fields of inquiry that will impact the way we teach and learn. The program’s required coursework will develop your knowledge of education and your expertise in a range of quantitative and qualitative methods needed to conduct high-quality research. Guided by the goal of making a transformative impact on education research, policy, and practice, you will focus on independent research in various domains, including human development, learning and teaching, policy analysis and evaluation, institutions and society, and instructional practice.   

Curriculum Information

The Ph.D. in Education requires five years of full-time study to complete. You will choose your individual coursework and design your original research in close consultation with your HGSE faculty adviser and dissertation committee. The requirements listed below include the three Ph.D. concentrations: Culture, Institutions, and Society; Education Policy and Program Evaluation; and Human Development, Learning and Teaching . 

We invite you to review an example course list, which is provided in two formats — one as the full list by course number and one by broad course category . These lists are subject to modification. 

Ph.D. Concentrations and Examples

Summary of Ph.D. Program

Doctoral Colloquia  In year one and two you are required to attend. The colloquia convenes weekly and features presentations of work-in-progress and completed work by Harvard faculty, faculty and researchers from outside Harvard, and Harvard doctoral students. Ph.D. students present once in the colloquia over the course of their career.

Research Apprenticeship The Research Apprenticeship is designed to provide ongoing training and mentoring to develop your research skills throughout the entire program.

Teaching Fellowships The Teaching Fellowship is an opportunity to enhance students' teaching skills, promote learning consolidation, and provide opportunities to collaborate with faculty on pedagogical development.

Comprehensive Exams  The Written Exam (year 2, spring) tests you on both general and concentration-specific knowledge. The Oral Exam (year 3, fall/winter) tests your command of your chosen field of study and your ability to design, develop, and implement an original research project.

Dissertation  Based on your original research, the dissertation process consists of three parts: the Dissertation Proposal, the writing, and an oral defense before the members of your dissertation committee.

Culture, Institutions, and Society (CIS) Concentration

In CIS, you will examine the broader cultural, institutional, organizational, and social contexts relevant to education across the lifespan. What is the value and purpose of education? How do cultural, institutional, and social factors shape educational processes and outcomes? How effective are social movements and community action in education reform? How do we measure stratification and institutional inequality? In CIS, your work will be informed by theories and methods from sociology, history, political science, organizational behavior and management, philosophy, and anthropology. You can examine contexts as diverse as classrooms, families, neighborhoods, schools, colleges and universities, religious institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, and more.

Education Policy and Program Evaluation (EPPE) Concentration

In EPPE, you will research the design, implementation, and evaluation of education policy affecting early childhood, K–12, and postsecondary education in the U.S. and internationally. You will evaluate and assess individual programs and policies related to critical issues like access to education, teacher effectiveness, school finance, testing and accountability systems, school choice, financial aid, college enrollment and persistence, and more. Your work will be informed by theories and methods from economics, political science, public policy, and sociology, history, philosophy, and statistics. This concentration shares some themes with CIS, but your work with EPPE will focus on public policy and large-scale reforms.

Human Development, Learning and Teaching (HDLT) Concentration

In HDLT, you will work to advance the role of scientific research in education policy, reform, and practice. New discoveries in the science of learning and development — the integration of biological, cognitive, and social processes; the relationships between technology and learning; or the factors that influence individual variations in learning — are transforming the practice of teaching and learning in both formal and informal settings. Whether studying behavioral, cognitive, or social-emotional development in children or the design of learning technologies to maximize understanding, you will gain a strong background in human development, the science of learning, and sociocultural factors that explain variation in learning and developmental pathways. Your research will be informed by theories and methods from psychology, cognitive science, sociology and linguistics, philosophy, the biological sciences and mathematics, and organizational behavior.

Program Faculty

The most remarkable thing about the Ph.D. in Education is open access to faculty from all Harvard graduate and professional schools, including the Harvard Graduate School of Education, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Harvard Kennedy School, the Harvard Law School, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard School of Public Health. Learn about the full Ph.D. Faculty.

Jarvis R. Givens

Jarvis Givens studies the history of American education, African American history, and the relationship between race and power in schools.

Paul L. Harris

Paul Harris is interested in the early development of cognition, emotion, and imagination in children.

Meira Levinson

Meira Levinson is a normative political philosopher who works at the intersection of civic education, youth empowerment, racial justice, and educational ethics. 

Luke W. Miratrix

Luke Miratrix is a statistician who explores how to best use modern statistical methods in applied social science contexts.

Eric Taylor

Eric Taylor studies the economics of education, with a particular interest in employer-employee interactions between schools and teachers — hiring and firing decisions, job design, training, and performance evaluation.

Paola Uccelli

Paola Ucelli studies socio-cultural and individual differences in the language development of multilingual and monolingual students.

View Ph.D. Faculty

Dissertations.

The following is a complete listing of successful Ph.D. in Education dissertations to-date. Dissertations from November 2014 onward are publicly available in the Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH) , the online repository for Harvard scholarship.

• 2022 Graduate Dissertations (265 KB pdf)
• 2021 Graduate Dissertations (177 KB pdf)
• 2020 Graduate Dissertations (121 KB pdf)
• 2019 Graduate Dissertations (68.3 KB pdf)

Student Directory

An opt-in listing of current Ph.D. students with information about their interests, research, personal web pages, and contact information:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education Student Directory

Introduce Yourself

Tell us about yourself so that we can tailor our communication to best fit your interests and provide you with relevant information about our programs, events, and other opportunities to connect with us.

Program Highlights

Explore examples of the Doctor of Philosophy in Education experience and the impact its community is making on the field:

Reshaping Teacher Licensure: Lessons from the Pandemic

Olivia Chi, Ed.M.'17, Ph.D.'20, discusses the ongoing efforts to ensure the quality and stability of the teaching workforce

Lost in Translation

New comparative study from Ph.D. candidate Maya Alkateb-Chami finds strong correlation between low literacy outcomes for children and schools teaching in different language from home

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When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

Best online Ph.D. programs: Doctoral degrees ranked

An online doctorate program has a lot in common with a traditional, in-person program. By studying online, you'll complete the same courses and classes on a schedule that accommodates yours. An online doctoral program includes research and dissertation requirements, all of which you complete under the guidance of a mentor. 

If you're looking for an undergraduate education first, we've compiled the  best online colleges to help with prerequisites.  

If you're already ready to further your education, We've ranked the schools offering the best online doctorates below. 

Top 5 online Ph.D. programs: Quick facts

What should i expect in an online ph.d. program.

An online Ph.D. is comparable to what on-campus learners experience. The program typically begins with coursework designed to build your fundamental understanding of the discipline alongside research essentials. 

Once you complete the required classes, you will sit for comprehensive exams and submit a dissertation or project proposal. This is something you develop with a mentor. 

As an online student, you'll connect one-on-one with faculty via online office hours, email, and video conferencing. A bad internet connection or technical difficulties can hinder you.  You may also need to or want to travel to meet with them personally.

Some online Ph.D. programs may provide you with a computer , while others have research resources to help you. 

Much of the research you undertake is done independently and requires self-motivation and dedication. Asking questions, reaching out for help, and remaining in close contact with your mentor is key throughout the process. 

The best online Ph.D. programs: Our picks

We picked the best online Ph.D. programs using ZDNet's ranking methodology. Our proprietary formula for assessing online doctoral degrees uses federally reported data, programmatic and professional outcomes, and industry insights. We consider the whole picture to offer an unbiased look at the top online Ph.D. programs. 

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System , College Scorecard , and each school's website. Note that for public colleges, the average annual net price given is for in-state students.

1. A.T. Still University Kirsville, Missouri

About the program: ATSU offers online doctoral programs in health professions, health administration, health sciences, medical science, and nursing practice. 

• Acceptance rate: Not publicly available
• Graduation rate: Not publicly available
• Avg. annual tuition: $40,978
• Time to completion: Varies
• Average MCAT score : 505
• Enrollment periods per year: Four
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous programs 

Accreditation: A.T. Still University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

2. Amridge University Montgomery, Alabama 

About the program: Dedicated to academic programs infused with the ideals and heritage of the Churches of Christ, Amridge offers six online Ph.D. programs alongside three doctor of ministry programs and one doctor of education degree.

• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Graduation rate: 32%
• Avg. annual net price: $17,618
• Time to completion: Three to seven years
• Minimum GRE / GMAT / LSAT score: N/A
• Enrollment periods per year: Three
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous and synchronous 

Accreditation: Amridge University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

3. Andrews University Berrien Springs, Michigan

About the program: Steeped in the beliefs and traditions of the Seventh-day Adventist church, Andrews offers online doctoral programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, and education.

• Acceptance rate: 49%
• Graduation rate: 55%
• Avg. annual net price: $23,408
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: N/A
• Enrollment periods per year: Varies

Accreditation: Andrews University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

4. Ball State University Muncie, Indiana

• About the program: All of Ball State's online doctoral programs focus on education. Areas of study include adult and community education, educational administration and supervision, elementary education, and special education.
• Acceptance rate: 87%
• Graduation rate: 61%
• Avg. annual net price: $14,765
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous

Accreditation: Ball State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

5. Barry University Miami, Florida

About the program: Grounded in the Roman Catholic Dominican tradition, Barry offers online doctoral programs in nursing, occupational therapy, and education. 

• Acceptance rate: 65%
• Graduation rate: 48%
• Avg. annual net price: $20,539
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: GRE required, no minimum
• Enrollment periods per year:  Three

Accreditation: Barry University is accredited by the Southern Commission of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

6. Baylor University Waco, Texas

About the program: A Baptist institution, Baylor offers online doctoral programs in occupational therapy, physical therapy, nursing, and education.

• Acceptance rate: 68%
• Graduation rate: 76%
• Avg. annual net price: $37,309
• Enrollment periods per year:  Varies

Accreditation: Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

7. Bethel University Saint Paul, Minnesota

About the program: Bethel, the largest member of a 13-institution Baptist college consortium, offers online doctorates in K-12 education administration and higher education leadership.

• Graduation rate: 71%
• Avg. annual net price: $28,178
• Time to completion: Three to five years

Accreditation: Bethel University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

8. Boston University Boston, Massachusetts

About the program: BU offers online doctoral programs in mechanical engineering and occupational therapy.

• Acceptance rate: 20%
• Graduation rate: 87%
• Avg. annual net price: $30,395
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: Varies

Accreditation: Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

9. University of Massachusetts Global Irvine, California

About the program: Dedicated to serving non-traditional students and adult learners, UMass Global offers two online doctoral degrees: A education doctorate organizational leadership , and a post-masters to doctor of nursing practice program.

• Acceptance rate: 93%
• Graduation rate: 64%
• Avg. annual net price: $26,346
• Minimum GRE/GMAT/LSAT score: Not publicly available
• Course delivery method: Asynchronous, synchronous, hybrid 

Accreditation: The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

10. Brenau University Gainesville, Georgia

About the program: Brenau offers six online doctoral programs in education. Concentration areas include elementary education, higher education leadership, higher education teaching and learning middle grades, and special education. A degree completion program is also available.

• Acceptance rate: 92%
• Graduation rate: 44%
• Avg. annual net price: $22,402
• Time to completion: Two to five years
• Enrollment periods per year:  One

Accreditation:  Brenau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). 

ZDNET Recommends

Online Doctorate Degree Guide

Brendan Gawlowski

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated April 18, 2024 · 5 Min Read

thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Earning a doctorate can lead to higher pay, new career opportunities, and more responsibilities. Online universities make it easier than ever to earn doctoral degrees through flexible enrollment options.

Is it worth it to earn a doctorate? What's the best specialization in a doctoral program? Can you earn a doctorate online? Our resources walk through the process of deciding whether to pursue a doctorate, along with how to choose a doctoral program and transition into the workforce afterward. We also help prospective students evaluate the career benefits of different degrees.

We rank healthcare, business management, computer science, social science, and education doctoral programs. Our resources also rank the best online universities . Prospective students can use these rankings to find the right fit for their circumstances and career goals.

Deciding to Pursue an Online Doctoral Degree

A doctoral degree offers many benefits. Graduates can advance their careers, increase their earning potential, and move into new fields after earning doctorates. Online formats may appeal to working professionals and students who need more flexible schedules.

Before applying to online doctoral programs, research how to choose a college to learn more about the top-ranked online universities . Our guides on using our rankings can help prospective applicants sort their options and identify the strongest program for their personal and professional aspirations.

Business Management and Administration Doctoral Degrees

Management occupations offer the highest median salaries of any occupational group. A doctorate in business management or administration strengthens problem-solving and analytical skills. Graduates typically pursue careers in business.

Within the field, graduate students can earn degrees in nonprofit management , project management , and business administration . A doctorate in management emphasizes leadership theory and management principles. Learners study organizational behavior, team leadership, and strategic management.

Specialized programs in organizational leadership and human resources can lead to focused career paths. For example, doctoral degree-holders can pursue work as human resources managers, CEOs, and nonprofit managers.

• Business Administration
• Human Resources
• Nonprofit Management
• Organizational Leadership
• Project Management

Computer Science and Information Technology Doctoral Degrees

Computer science and information technology degrees can lead to many opportunities for candidates with doctorates. A computer science degree can open pathways to careers as software engineers, computer scientists, and computer and information systems managers. During a doctorate in computer science, learners complete advanced courses in complex algorithms, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and computer architecture.

Tech degree-seekers can also earn doctorates in information technology . An IT doctorate includes coursework in information systems, computer networking, and systems analysis. The degree often includes graduate-level business training, preparing professionals for managerial roles in diverse organizations.

Criminal Justice and Legal Studies

A criminal justice or legal studies doctorate prepares professionals to pursue top positions in the criminal justice system. A doctorate in criminal justice can train learners in criminal justice policy, program evaluation, and research methods. Graduates can seek leadership positions in law enforcement and higher education.

A legal studies doctorate offers focused training in the law and legal analysis. Through coursework in legal ethics, legal theory, and legal policy, doctoral students strengthen their research and analytics skills. Like a criminal justice doctoral, legal studies programs require each enrollee to complete a dissertation. Graduates can find work in research, legal adjudication, and academia.

Education Doctoral Degrees

A doctorate in education trains educators for leadership and administrative positions. For example, a doctorate in educational administration emphasizes school leadership and may lead to opportunities to pursue work as principals or superintendents. With doctoral degrees in reading and literacy , educators can work as instructional coordinators and school administrators.

Similarly, professionals with doctorates in educational technology can manage technology for school districts.

In addition to these programs, graduate students can pursue doctorates in child development to move into research or academic roles. These doctoral programs offer advanced training in pedagogical techniques, evaluation and assessment, and administration. They also strengthen research skills.

• Child Development
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Early Childhood Education
• Educational Administration
• Educational Leadership
• Educational Technology
• Higher Education
• Reading and Literacy

Finance Doctoral Degrees

The fast-moving financial sector requires strong data analysis and research skills. During a doctorate in finance , graduate students can strengthen their research skills and analytical abilities. A finance doctoral program includes coursework in finance theory, economic analysis, and applied behavioral finance.

Doctoral candidates also complete original research to write and defend dissertations. After earning doctorates in finance, graduates can pursue work in leadership roles like financial manager, director of finance, and chief financial officer. The degree may also lead to academic positions like finance professor.

Medical, Dental, and Nursing Doctoral Degrees

A doctorate in healthcare trains graduates for leadership positions in the fastest-growing sector of the economy, with a projected 2.4 million new jobs from 2019-2029. Many healthcare careers for individuals with doctorates also offer above-average salaries. For example, a doctorate in nursing may open the door to advanced practice careers like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.

With doctorates in public health , professionals can pursue employment as epidemiologists, public health directors, and public health researchers. A doctorate in healthcare administration emphasizes non-clinical leadership roles through coursework in healthcare finances and management. These doctoral programs help healthcare professionals increase their responsibilities and earning potential.

Public Administration and Public Policy Doctoral Degrees

A public administration or public policy doctorate prepares graduates for leadership positions in government and policymaking organizations. During a doctorate in public administration , graduate students explore public financing, public management principles, and nonprofit management. The degree can lead to employment as a city manager, nonprofit director, or public administration professor.

Graduate students can also earn doctorates in public policy . Public policy programs emphasize policy research and assessment. Doctoral candidates learn to evaluate and suggest new policies. They study quantitative analysis, public sector budgeting, and strategic management. As with public administration, the degree may present employment opportunities in the public sector, nonprofits, and academia.

Marketing Doctoral Degrees

Marketing doctoral programs can help marketing professionals advance their careers. The marketing field requires strong analytical and research skills. An online doctorate in marketing strengthens these abilities through coursework, research projects, and a doctoral dissertation. Doctoral candidates can elevate their quantitative research skills and carry out original research projects to earn their degrees.

After completing marketing doctoral degrees, graduates often pursue leadership roles in marketing firms, enterprise-level businesses, and other organizations. These professionals can advance into roles such as marketing director, vice president of marketing, or chief marketing officer. The degree also meets the requirements for careers as a marketing professor.

Psychology, Counseling, and Social Work Doctoral Degrees

Doctoral degrees in psychology, counseling, and social work train graduates to pursue top positions in these fields. For example, licensed psychologists typically need psychology degrees at the doctoral level. A social work doctorate prepares graduates for policymaking and leadership roles.

Students can specialize in general psychology , social work , human services , and educational psychology . Doctoral candidates may also select concentrations like family counseling , addiction recovery , and counselor education . Many online doctoral programs meet the requirements for professional licensure. Distance learners typically complete practicum requirements at local sites.

• Addiction and Recovery
• Behavioral Psychology
• Counselor Education
• Educational Psychology
• Family Counseling
• Human and Family Development
• Human Services
• Organizational Psychology
• Social Work

Theology and Religion Doctoral Degrees

Theology and religion degrees bring together philosophy, faith, and history. A doctorate in theology or religion prepares graduates for leadership roles in ministry and theological interpretation. Online universities offer doctoral programs in ministry to train pastors, religious counselors, and other faith leaders. Doctoral degree-holders can also become ministry professors.

Distance learners can also pursue doctorates in theology online. Learners examine theological scholarship and study religious history. Many theology programs focus on Biblical analysis and Christian theology, though some may emphasize comparative religious texts.

Doctoral Degrees for Career Paths in the Trades

In addition to academic programs, prospective students can pursue trade degrees . While trade schools do not offer doctoral degrees, many universities enroll doctoral students in trade-focused programs. These programs prepare graduates for many different skilled trade careers .

A degree in emergency management or public safety administration can prepare graduates for leadership roles in emergency management and homeland security organizations. They can also earn doctorates in conflict management . For business-focused individuals, supply chain logistics degrees can lead to management-level roles in distribution and transportation.

Pursuing an Online Doctoral Degree

Many learners prefer online delivery for their doctorates. Working professionals and busy adults may enjoy the flexibility and convenience of online learning formats. Before applying to programs, research the top online universities , what to look for in online programs , and the essential tools for distance learners .

First-time distance learners also may benefit from learning about synchronous and asynchronous classes . Remember to check our online education checklist to make sure you're ready for school. Applicants can identify programs that best fit their needs while also preparing for their doctoral classes.

Paying for Your Doctoral Degree

The costs of earning a doctorate can add up quickly. Most doctoral programs take at least 3-5 years, with enrollees typically paying higher tuition rates than undergraduates.

Many students worry about college finances and paying for an online degree . Fortunately, doctoral-level enrollees qualify for several scholarships and grants . They can also pursue fellowships and assistantships to cover costs. Some employers even offer tuition remission programs. Finally, doctoral candidates can take out student loans .

• TBS' College Finances Guide
• Find Scholarships for College
• Paying for Online College
• What To Know About Student Loans

Frequently Asked Questions About Pursuing a Doctoral Degree

Can you get a doctorate degree online.

Yes. Many universities offer online doctoral programs. Degree-seekers can study finance, marketing, psychology, education, and more in online doctoral programs.

Is It Hard To Get a Ph.D. Online?

Earning a Ph.D. online requires strong organizational and time management skills. Many distance learners work while pursuing doctoral degrees.

What Doctorate Degrees Can You Get Online?

Graduate students can earn doctoral degrees in business, psychology, education, healthcare, and technology online. Many universities offer online doctoral programs.

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Best Doctorate Degrees For 4 In-Demand Industries

Doctorate degrees aren’t just for college professors—they’re a way to show expertise in a field, gain valuable research and writing skills and advance your career. Anyone who wants to take an executive or leadership position, or transition into academia, can benefit from getting their doctorate. However, doctorate degrees require time and dedication, and necessitate intense study, research and writing to complete. If you’re considering pursuing your doctorate, you need to be passionate about your career and consider all the doors a doctorate will open, in addition to increased earning potential. With that in mind, we’ll outline four of the top professionals who can benefit from getting their doctorate and how it can help you take your career to the next level.

Best Doctorate Degrees For Marketing Professionals

It may not seem obvious, but doctoral programs are a natural extension of the skills you need to be a successful marketing leader. Excelling at research, communication and leadership are crucial to the success of marketing executives. There are two types of doctoral programs that are ideal for marketing professionals. Ph.D. in Marketing The Ph.D. in Marketing focuses on the research and theories of marketing. Programs are extremely flexible, allowing you to pursue everything from mathematical and statistical modeling to consumer behavior and competitive strategy. You may want to choose a Ph.D. in Marketing because:

• Your career goal is to become a professor or researcher in academia
• You’re a recent master’s graduate with minimal professional experience
• You want to pursue original research, rather than study current research or trends

DBA with a Concentration in Marketing A DBA prepares you to put theory into practice, advancing your practical market research skills and applying them to real-world business challenges. These programs also help you sharpen your managerial skills to create positive change in your organization. You may want to choose a DBA with a Concentration in Marketing because:

• Your career goal is to become a marketing leader at the executive level
• You have ample professional experience and want to increase your expertise and gain leadership skills
• You want to use your research skills to solve real-world marketing problems

Earning a doctorate is challenging and rewarding, but do you know what to really expect? Download this free guide for tips and insights to help you prepare for success.  

Best doctorate degrees for business leaders.

More and more, business professionals are pursuing doctorates to gain the research, communication and leadership skills needed to drive efficiency at organizations across industries. There are three primary doctoral programs for business leaders looking to advance their careers, each designed to help professionals achieve their specific career goals. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Doctor of Business Administration programs are ideal for business executives or those looking to advance their career to executive positions within their companies. You may want to pursue a DBA because:

• You have extensive real-world experience in business leadership positions
• You want to gain qualitative and quantitative research skills to make data-backed business decisions
• You want to apply business and leadership theory to real-world business challenges

Ph.D in Business Administration The Ph.D in Business Administration is fundamentally different from the DBA as it focuses heavily on business theory.

• You may want to pursue a Ph.D. in Business Administration because:
• You want to transition to a career in academia as an educator or administrator
• You want to design and conduct original research studies and advance business theory
• You recently completed a master’s program and have minimal practical business experience

Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership (Ed.D.) A Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership is a degree with a broad focus on leading the people and processes in organizations and can be applied to a wide variety of roles and industries. You may want to pursue an Ed.D. because:

• You want to evaluate organizations to determine leadership, learning, and performance needs
• You want to create change in your organization with an emphasis on ethical decision making
• You want to use research skills to identify organizational issues and develop thoughtful, measurable solutions

Best Doctorate Degrees for Educators

Getting a doctorate degree is a natural step for educators of all kinds looking to advance their careers. If you want to advance your career at the postsecondary level, influence training and performance management in businesses or develop solutions to systemic educational challenges, you may want to consider one of three doctorates. Doctor of Professional Studies — Instructional Design Leadership (DPS) A DPS in Instructional Design Leadership prepares graduates to work as educators, consultants, and executives who transform our understanding and application of discovery, learning and engagement.

• You may want to pursue a DPS in Instructional Design Leadership because:
• You want a career leading organizational change and employee development initiatives
• You want to design and develop advanced curricula and instructional products
• You want to teach the next generation of instructional design leaders

Doctor of Education (Ed.D) A Doctor of Education is an ideal program for professionals who want to pursue an administrative career in education. You can also further focus your education by choosing a concentration based on educational setting, like PK-12 or Higher Education, so you can apply learnings to the real-world challenges you’ll face. You may want to pursue an Ed.D. because:

• You want to influence or improve curriculum at a system-wide level
• You want to serve in a leadership position at educational institutions, school districts, nonprofits, government agencies, or in the private sector
• You want to solve large, complex issues through practical research

Ph.D. in Education A Ph.D. in Education is a degree devoted to the philosophy and theory of teaching and learning. You may want to pursue a Ph.D. in Education because:

• You want to begin teaching at the postsecondary level, advance your career as a professor or serve as an educational administrator at a higher education institution
• You want to become a scholar who advances theory and research to improve educational best practices
• You want to specialize in an educational academic area and intensely study and research that subject

Best Doctorate Degree for Healthcare Leaders

As healthcare continues to evolve and change, the industry needs administrators who can lead organizations forward. One way to gain the knowledge and skills needed to help transform healthcare is to pursue a doctorate degree. To advance your career to an executive level you should consider a professional doctorate in healthcare administration. Doctor of Healthcare Administration (DHA) A Doctor of Healthcare Administration is a professional doctorate designed to help healthcare leaders effectively evolve their organization and advance their career. You may want to pursue a DHA because:

• You want to use evidence-based decision making to drive change in your organization
• You want to develop expert written and oral presentation skills to effectively communicate with stakeholders at the highest levels
• You want to use ethical leadership practices to balance organizational efficiency with best-in-class patient care

Choosing the Right Doctorate Program for Your Career Aspirations

The increasing demand for innovative leaders continues to increase the popularity of doctoral programs across industries. If you’re looking to set yourself apart from other leaders in your industry, a doctorate program can give you the leg up you need. For many working professionals, a doctorate program is only practical if they can pursue their education in tandem with their career. If you’re looking for a flexible and reputable doctoral program, Franklin University will give you the knowledge and skills you need to lead while working around your schedule. Explore our complete list of online doctoral programs to discover if Franklin University is the right choice for your doctoral education.

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Is PhD for me

Best doctoral degrees to get in 2023

Overall, the highest paying PhDs can not only give you the opportunity to secure higher PhD stipends and research fellowships and funding, they can definitely help you transition to the industry by making you eligible for lucrative jobs that need your particular skill set. Such PhDs can help you attain more credibility and say in an innovative team as well as quicker opportunities up the ladder.

The table below enlists 51 highest paying Doctoral Degrees. You can sort and search the list to view the highest PhD stipend in your field of study.

Whenever we are deciding to take a new path in our life-especially the one that can impact our future greatly-we try to consider the best options. However, every best option out there cannot be the best for everyone . When we graduate with our bachelor’s or master’s it is perfectly okay to think about the next step in the academic ladder-the PhD.

Your love for your subject is a good thing, however, pursuing a PhD can be greatly due to a certain post-PhD outcome in mind.

With many complaints out there of PhD grind and lack of proper job prospects for PhD graduates , it is good to be cautious before taking the PhD path.

Interested in joining industry after PhD: What Employers Really Think About PhDs (Rumors VS Reality)

There can be many reasons for today’s grueling job market for PhD graduates. We can blame the government or the state of how we as a society value science.

Still, every aspiring PhD applicant wants to secure his/ her future and would like to pursue the field with a little bit more certainty. Especially when the post-PhD career is uncertain both intellectually as well as occupationally .

We all want to secure our future and if you are like me and belong to a middle-class family. You must consider the PhD path deliberately.

So why is a PhD all about “Uncertainty”?

Let me explain with data from Nature PhD Survey- 2019 .

Here are a few statistics that indicate the financial suffering of PhD students as well as graduates

• 79% reported uncertainty about job/career prospects
• 67% reported deep concern for financial worries after PhD (cost of living, inability to save for a house, children, retirement)
• 70% PhD students reported concerns about available faculty research jobs beyond post-doc contracts.
• 31% reported uncertainty about value of their PhD
• 63% reported PhD and academic research funding climate discouraging and 41% expect the academic salary to be too low.

Discover More: 25 Highest PhD stipends in the US

If you are a recent graduate, you are in your prime years or in your defining decade. Your interest in your major or master’s does matter but being a middle-class student you must think about how well you take care of finances. This is certainly crucial in today’s market with PhD holders struggling to get hired .

Further Readings:

• When are you too old for a PhD?
• Life after the PhD: It’s waiting for you!

So Google as much as you can and ask as skeptically as you can about the PhD and what you can make out of it.

I compiled this list of best PhD degrees-both by PhD stipends as well as Post-PhD salaries. I took great care in

• setting and measuring the PhD stipend actual worth when compared to the living cost in the region.
• sorting out best Post-PhD positions that you can get hired for after graduating.

I agree that PhD is not about the money you earn. Still there is no harm in considering lucrative PhDs that can secure your life.

Although nothing is guaranteed and life works in unpredictable ways, these PhDs are most likely to secure your future. At least numbers from job growth rate are saying so for these PhDs.

Chart 1: Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees – By Post-PhD Salary

Three points to note in this post-PhD salary chart are

• PhDs that pay best have much higher salary than average starting salary in these professions with a bachelor’s degree.
• These PhD degrees can get you hired for many lucrative positions and someone with a bachelor’s degree may not be able to get this level of compensation .
• Some people can attain these levels of compensation and can get promoted for these roles, however, we also need to consider further growth potential in the career.

A PhD in the following fields can really give you an edge in yearly growth, thus, leading to higher lifetime earnings.

Read More: Which country pays PhD students the best?

“To be fair, there are valid reasons to reject candidates based on their advanced degrees and training. A Ph.D. holder in a low-level job is less likely to embrace that role for life, and no one wants to hire a candidate who might leave soon.” When Ph.D. stands for Problematic Hiring Detriment

Chart 2: Best Doctoral Degrees -By PhD stipend

Many people argue the opportunity cost of pursuing a PhD . I agree with that side of the argument too.

In fact, I have written and spoken in many places that the opportunity cost of a PhD is really high. Also, it’s really hard to prove the “what-if” factor. What if the person with PhD has pursued a more lucrative path or got hired in a growing industry.

In such a case, we may not be able to justify pursuing a PhD.

However, by looking at higher PhD stipends in some of the most lucrative and in – demand fields we can see that the opportunity cost may not apply in these cases.

The reasons opportunity cost argument may not hold in the case of highest paying PhDs are

• These PhD degrees with best stipends out there are still compensating more than $67,690 (the average living wage in the US) .
• The desire to explore a certain topic in your field and answer a particular query for 4-7 years or more may be much more for you than mere high compensation for your work.
• The desire to work in your topic of interest and not grind in a 9-5 job may be more stronger than the high earnings in your prime years (20s and 30s) .
• The life time higher earnings for PhDs in the best doctoral degrees might let you get ahead in terms of early retirement(the effect can be reverse too) and other benefits you can get from PhDs in these lucrative fields.

Below you can see the highest PhD stipends offered as well as the real worth of a PhD stipend in terms of living cost.

PhD stipend to living wage ratio is a number that can let us determine how higher a PhD stipend is above the minimum living wage in a particular region.

The higher the value of PhD stipend to living wage ratio is the higher the real worth of a PhD stipend. So please take a close look at the red line to notice the real purchase power of a PhD stipend.

The benefit of a good PhD stipend to living wage ratio is that you can justify the opportunity cost of pursuing a PhD, especially in financial terms.

I explained the PhD stipend to the living wage ratio in detail here .

Read More: Do PhD students make a lot of Money?

You can compare these stipends amounts with salaries you are now getting with your bachelor’s or master’s degree. The comparison may help you make your decision in pursuing your PhD.

“The discovery that you’re overqualified for many advertised jobs often comes as a rude shock.” Moving down the career ladder

Read More: Problems that PhD Students Face

PhDs prepare you for very versatile careers so do not consider yourself limited by certain roles and job positions.

I researched these jobs carefully that can really make the most out of your PhD degree. There are many more out there and you just need to search in your particular field what kind of profession you can get into.

The table below shows these top-paying PhDs, their PhD stipends, and the high-paying jobs after completing these degrees.

The idea here is to not guarantee that you are set for life, life will always bring its ups and downs. You may not be the person 4-7 years down the road or the market may change.

However, the intention is to really think about your PhD and what options can it give you down the road.

Highest Paying Doctoral Degrees

Read More: 5 Common Questions Applicants ask about PhD stipend?

“For most jobs, a PhD is unnecessary. I, and many of my PhD friends, dropped the title soon after our release into the real world. The initial buzz of having Dr. before your name dims with time, and using the title in a non-academic context exudes more than a whiff of self-importance.” Is a PhD the right option for you?

Discover More: Is Getting a Ph.D. Worth the Financial Cost of Graduate School?

Overview of Careers in Highest Paying PhDs

1. phd in neurophysiology.

Neurophysiology studies the nervous system and its functions. It answers the questions of how different components of a nervous system works together. Neurophysiology studies neurons, their functions as well as communications between them.

Other than high-workload-low paying academic post-docs a PhD in neurophysiology can get you into very lucrative careers such as

• Psychiatrist
• Clinical Neurophysiology Specialist
• Program Manager in Psychological Pathology
• Intraoperative Neuromonitoring Technologist
• Surgical Neurophysiologist

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Neurophysiology = $52,000

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Psychiatrist = $218,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 13% from 2020- 2030 (drastically much higher than other physicians and surgeons)

2. PhD in Computer Science

Computers science is the study of automation and information. It has changed the world in the past few decades and this field is not going down in near future.

In fact, it is likely to be the cusp of innovation in the 21st. Computer science has various subfields such as hardware systems and programming languages and with a PhD in computer science, you can specialize in any of them.

There are many pros and cons of a computer science PhD and only you can determine whether it is best for you or not.

Read More: 7 Reasons to Go For a Ph.D. In Computer Science

Other than high-workload-low paying academic post-docs a PhD in computer science can get you into very lucrative careers such as

• Quantitative Risk Modeler
• Software Architect
• Quantitative UX Researcher
• Computer Vision Engineer
• GPU Performance Engineer
• Computational Mathematician for Scientific Computing
• Decision Scientist

Further Reading: How Much Will You Earn With a PhD in Computer Science?

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Computer Science = $62,000

Median post-doc salary for Computer Science = $64,932

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Software Architect = $127,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 22% for Computer and Information Research Scientists (much faster than average for all occupations.

Further Reading: What is life like for PhDs in computer science who go into industry?

3. PhD in Geological Sciences

Geology works along with many other sciences such as physics and chemistry to understand the making as well as the history of our planet. Geology helps us study the phenomenon which shapes our earth like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and soil erosions due to rivers. Geological science also explores materials on Earth to locate useful resources like natural gas and oil.

Other than high-workload, low-paying academic post-docs, a PhD in geological science can get you into very lucrative careers such as

• Petroleum Geologist
• Process Mineralogist
• Paleontologist
• Economic Geologist
• Hydrogeologist

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Geological Science = $50,220

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Petroleum Geologist = $107,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 7% from 2020-2030

4. PhD in Physics

Physics is interested in understanding the properties and phenomenon of matter with respect to space and time. It explores many fundamental questions about the physical nature of everything around us. Physics also explores the nature of energy and how it is converted into other forms.

“… Don’t get a physics PhD because you want to be a physicist; get a physics PhD because you want the experience of earning a physics PhD.” To PhD or not to PhD (in Physics)

Other than high-workload, low-paying academic post-docs, a PhD in Physics can get you into very lucrative careers such as

• Nuclear Physicist
• Materials Scientist
• Computational Physicist
• Beam Physicist
• Laser Interferometry Physicist

Must read for physics graduates: Is science graduate school right for you? (Physics)

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Physics = $80,816

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Nuclear Physicist = $104,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 8% from 2020 to 2030

More than half post-doc scholars- the next step in an academic career after a PhD -have a negative view of their career outlook according to a nature survey. 32% of respondents said it was worse than they expected. Postdoc survey reveals disenchantment with working life

5. PhD in Comparative Biomedical Science

Comparative Biomedical Science studies the health of humans as well as animals. It deals with issues like reproductive physiology, immunology, and developmental biology. Comparative Biomedical Science becomes more and more important as we become more and more sensitive to our health and the health of animals from which we consume food.

“The number of biomedical PhD scientists undergoing training and graduating far exceeds the number of academic faculty positions and academic research jobs. “ Navigating the path to a biomedical science career

Other than high-workload, low-paying academic post-docs, a PhD in Comparative Biomedical Science can get you into very lucrative careers such as

• Patent Agent
• Biostatistician
• Investigative Pathologist
• Pharmaceutical Product Development Specialist
• Computational Scientist in Health

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Comparative Biomedical Science = $52,000

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Patent Agent = $101,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 6% from 2020 to 2030

6. PhD in Immunology

Immunology studies systems in an organism that function to protect it from various microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. Immunology is interested in innate and adaptive systems and how they work. Immunology plays a key role in developing vaccines for viruses like Covid-19 and help prevent epidemics and pandemics.

Other than high-workload, low-paying academic post-docs, a PhD in Immunology can get you into very lucrative industry careers such as

• Junior Product Manager
• Bioinformatician
• Immunologist
• Clinical Pharmacometrician

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Immunology = $35,000

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Immunologist = $100,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 30% from 2020 to 2030

“ … a postdoc is essentially high-quality cheap labor for the machine that is modern-day science. “ The price of doing a postdoc

7. PhD in Pharmacology

Pharmacology investigates the chemical composition of drugs and their interaction with the body of an organism such as humans. Pharmacologists are interested in drug targets in order to identify how drugs affect the human body and what chemical changes they bring. They are also curious about how drugs are modified in the human body.

Besides the precarious chain of high-workload, low-paying academic post-doc contracts, a PhD in Pharmacology can also get you into very lucrative industry careers such as

• Vitro Pharmacology Scientist
• Translational Quantitative Pharmacologist
• Clinical Pharmacologist/Pharmacometrician
• Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Modeler

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Pharmacology = $57,375

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Pharmacologist = $98,000

Job Projected Decline Rate = 2% from 2020 to 2030

Read More: The Science Careers guide to consulting careers for Ph.D. scientists

8. PhD in Data Science

The focus of data science is to make sense of large chunks of data available to us today. This large data comes in many different forms but modern digital technology has enabled us to collect large data as well as process and analyze it to get insights. Data science is an interdisciplinary approach involving many different concepts and tools from statistics and computer science to answer questions by using data.

What can a PhD add to your data science career? (And what does it cost you.)

Besides the precarious chain of high-workload, low-paying academic post-doc contracts, a PhD in Data Science can also get you into very lucrative industry careers such as

• Computational and Data Science Specialist
• Data Scientist in People Analytics
• Applied Social Scientist
• Data Scientist – Customer Data Science

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Data Science = $37,000

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Data Scientist = $97,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 22% from 2020 to 2030 (much faster than the average for all occupations)

9. PhD in Civil Engineering

Civil engineering includes the designing, planning, construction, and maintenance of the infrastructures. There are several sub-disciplines of civil engineering such as structural engineering, water resources engineering, and transportation engineering.

The Edge with Doctoral Degree: A PhD in Civil Engineering can grant you opportunities to work at the innovative edge of construction. You can get the opportunity to work on various advanced industry projects in Coastal Engineering due to sea-level rising or a purification and waste management plant to protect our planet earth.

Discover More: Getting a PhD as an Engineer or Not?

Besides the precarious chain of high-workload, low-paying academic post-doc contracts, a PhD in Civil Engineering can also get you into very lucrative industry careers such as

• Geotechnical Engineer
• Engineering Project Manager
• Project Engineer, Structural
• Civil Infrastructure Engineer

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Civil Engineering = $43,700

Median Post- PhD salary in industry for Engineering Project Manager = $96,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 8% from 2020 to 2030 (about as fast as the average for all occupations)

10. PhD in Neuroscience

Neuroscience is interested in studying the most complex object in the universe, the human brain. Neuroscience gets its insights from various different domains from biology, chemistry, psychology, and behavioral science. Neuroscience is interested in exploring the functioning of neurons to understand human behavior, emotion, and cognition.

The Edge with Doctoral Degree in Neuroscience: Why Do Students Pursue a Ph.D. in Neuroscience?

A PhD may let you earn more than a masters or Bachelors. However, its difficult to consider the “what-if” here. “What-if” these PhDs didn’t spend this time and pursued something more lucrative.

Besides the precarious chain of high-workload, low-paying academic post-doc contracts, a PhD in Neuroscience can also get you into very lucrative industry careers such as

• Neuropsychologist
• Scientific Reviewer
• Behavioral Scientist
• Clinical Leader – Neuroscience
• Neurosurgeon
• Neurologist

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Neuroscience = $52,704

Average post-doc salary in the US for Neuroscience = $50,500 to $64,500

Median post-PhD salary in industry for Neuropsychologist = $95,000

“ In my opinion, it really boils down to two reasons why you should get a PhD: (a) you’re positive you need a PhD to get to the next step in your career (b) you’ll just really, really love 5+ years of intense research and the value that will bring to your life “ To PhD, or not to PhD?

11. PhD in Business Administration

Business administration consists of different further branches that deal with successfully managing and running businesses in modern society. The subfields of business administration are many including management, supply chain, accounting, organization, human resources, and marketing.

The Edge with Doctoral Degree in Business Administration : A Business administration degree can give you an edge in the age of decision and strategy making with the help of data. Businesses need more and more analysts and consultants to solve complex and ever-evolving problems from manufacturing to supply chain and logistics to marketing to targeted customers.

Discover More: PhD in Business Administration – Be A Social Scientist Of Organizations

Besides the precarious chain of high-workload, low-paying academic post-doc contracts, a PhD in Business administration can also get you into very lucrative industry careers such as

• Business Coach
• Management Consultant
• Business Transformation Manager
• Customer & Business Strategist
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist
• Consultant Operational Excellence
• Business Analysis Manager – Performance Analytics

Highest reported 1st year PhD stipend for Business administration = $39,400

Median post-PhD salary in industry for Management Consultant= $90,000

Job Projected Growth Rate = 18% for Financial Examiners, 22% for Market Research Analysts, 11% for Training and Development Specialists, and 14% for Management Analysts. All much faster than average for all occupations.

There are many websites listing many different PhDs as high paying. However, what I feel lacking there is the unavailability of data that can back the author’s claim.

In this post, I tried to sort a list based on real data of the highest paying PhD stipends and highest-paying jobs you can get after them. This data can at least assure us of a certain and financially secure future.

I think while pursuing these PhDs you should be aware of how to invest in your PhD years with relevant internships, training, etc. to get the best deal out there when you graduate.

Another thing is many of these best-paying PhDs offer you other benefits like health insurance and external fellowships to increase your earning potential during PhD years. The extra perks and benefits are common for in-demand PhDs because the advisors and departments are able to get a high number of grants in these research fields.

These extra perks can mitigate the opportunity cost of investing your best years in these high – paying PhD degrees.

• A quick search at Simplyhired.com can give you an information about nature of duties you need to do after your PhD.
• A quick search at Payscale.com can give you good analysis about the worth of your job in labor market and industry.
• A quick search at PhDstipends.com can give a good idea about how much you are going to give up by pursing these best PhD degrees.
• A quick search at U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics can give you firm idea about the prospective job growth rate in your industry in the coming decade.

• Graduate School

The Easiest PhD Programs to Get into

Should you pursue a masters or a PhD , it will still take several years to complete your degree, even if you are accepted to one of the easiest PhD programs to get into. You could be spending up to seven or eight years of your life pursuing a PhD, only to end up scratching your head thinking about how to transition from academia to industry or how to get a job after grad school . However, if you’re convinced you have the passion, patience, time, and resources to pursue a PhD and see it as a way to advance your career or professional ambitions, then you should read this article to find out more about how to find a postdoc , the easiest PhD programs to get into and how to apply.

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Article Contents 10 min read

Easiest phd programs to get into, 1. adams state university – doctor of philosophy (phd) in counselor education and supervision (ce&s).

This is an online program offered by Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. Students must complete 6 credit hours per semester, for up to 3 to 4 years. The entirety of the course is done online, but students are also required to participate in a one-week summer residency every year of their program at the Adams State University campus. This program is easy to get into because you do not need to submit GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores to be considered.

You do need to submit a letter of intent, so you would be better off reading about how to write an effective statement of intent before submitting your application. The length of the letter should be between 3–4 pages and address a series of questions like:

• “Why are you pursuing a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Adams State University?”
• “What personal and professional dispositions are essential for future counselor educators and supervisors?”
•  “Describe your professional plans with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, post-graduation.”

Want to learn top strategies you can use when writing your grad school statement of purpose? Watch this video:

You will also be asked to submit reference letters and a CV; all graduate students should know how to write a CV for grad school , as it is a common requirement for entry into graduate programs. Applicants with a master’s degree in counseling who also hold state certification to work as a counselor in their home state are given preference.

Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree from an accredited university or college
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 (must be maintained throughout the four years)
• Minimum two years of professional experience as a counselor post-grad

UTEP offers several doctorate programs in areas such as biosciences, civil engineering, and business administration, but those programs have several high-level admissions requirements like submitting GRE scores and mastery of complicated subjects like statistics and mathematics. However, the PhD in English Rhetoric and Composition only requires either:

• A bachelor’s degree in English or
• A master’s degree in English

Students who apply with only a bachelor’s degree must first complete the Master of English Rhetoric and Composition at UTEP. They need to complete the six-credit course requirement and present a master’s thesis. After completing their master’s, they continue to complete the PhD program requirements.

Successful students are given up to eight years to complete the degree, but they may receive their PhD sooner as long as they satisfy the 45–51 credit hours required to obtain the degree. What makes this degree attractive is not only the academic requirements, but the many career opportunities afforded graduates who can apply their degree to fields as diverse as education, business, and government.

• Official transcripts of all previous work
• Three letters of recommendation either from previous instructors or professional references 
• A description of their educational goals
• A description of their approach to writing and teaching
• Two writing samples: a research paper and a personal writing sample

3. Prescott College – PhD in Sustainability Education

Prescott College is a private university in Prescott, Arizona, that has a near 99% acceptance rate for all programs, including the newly created PhD program in Sustainability Education. This near perfect acceptance rate stands in contrast to much lower medical school acceptance rates , which are often in the single digits. This PhD program is interdisciplinary and blends disciplines like pedagogy, environmental science, and social justice studies.

The other aspects of the program that make it attractive are the fact that there are few admissions requirements. Students do not have to submit any GRE or GMAT scores. Neither do they have to pay any application fees. Successful applicants can choose to take classes part-time, if they have other responsibilities, but the entire class format is online, which is another accommodation to mature or professional students.

Similar graduate sustainability education programs in the US and Canada last for up to 4 years, but Prescott College does not mention how long their program lasts. The small class size and experienced faculty also make this PhD program an option for someone who wants to pursue research in environmental sustainability, with career options ranging from becoming faculty or working as a sustainability officer for businesses and government.

Contact the program director directly to find out more about admission requirements and other information.

4. University of Michigan/Rackham Graduate School – PhD in Anthropology

The Rackham Graduate School at the University of Michigan offers a 7-year PhD in Anthropology that has relaxed admission requirements, like not requiring students to take or submit GRE scores or any other standardized graduate school exams. But the program has other requirements, such as the documentation listed below.

Prospective students do not need a master’s degree to apply, but they must have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, students can complete a master’s while on the PhD track. The PhD program has an acceptance rate of 4.6%, so it is one of the easier PhD programs to get into, given that prospective students do not have to take any standardized tests or have a graduate degree.

• Application form
• Application fee
• Admissions Conduct Code
• Statement of purpose (1000–1500 words)
• Personal statement (500 words maximum)
• Letters of recommendation (3)
• Official transcripts 
• Writing sample (optional, 30-page maximum)

5. The University of Tennessee at Knoxville – PhD in Sociology

UTK offers several PhD level programs, but the PhD in sociology is one of the easiest PhD programs to get into since applicants do not need to take the GRE. All successful students must choose from one of the four core concepts to complete the sociology degree, which are:

• Criminology
• Critical Race and Ethnic Studies
• Environmental Sociology
• Political Economy and Globalization

Students explore each aspect of their chosen subject, which all have their unique credit and non-credit requirements to complete the degree. Along with this first area of study, students must choose a second area of study revolving around social theory or statistics. All students must complete a minimum of 27 credits or 9 courses within each core concept and take another 12 elective credits or 4 courses in one of the other four concentrations, a foreign language course, a graduate certificate in statistics, or a science minor.

If accepted, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 throughout the duration of the program and meet academic benchmarks established by them and the sociology department. The school does not state the length of the program, but all students must pass comprehensive exams in one of the four main concepts, write a dissertation, and present and defend it orally to complete the degree requirements.

• Master’s or JD degree in sociology or a related field
• Overall undergraduate and graduate GPA of 3.00 or higher
• Three letters of recommendation
• Writing sample
• Personal statement

6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – PhD in Urban Education : Adult, Continuing, and Higher Education Leadership (ACHEL)

This PhD program gives students seven years to complete all the degree requirements but does not require that they take the GRE or submit GRE scores no older than five years for admission. Some of the admissions requirements are document-based, meaning students must submit several types of writing to qualify.

All applicants must have at least a 2.75 undergraduate GPA, which is much lower than the typical 3.0 that most PhD programs require, to be considered. They must also have an undergraduate or master’s degree. The written requirements include submitting one of the following, with a maximum word count of 1500 words:

• Master’s thesis
• Undergraduate senior thesis
• Technical report
• Publication
• Written description of a project
• Action research project
• Writing sample answering the question, “How would you conceptualize and analyze issues in urban education?”

Students must also submit a Reasons Statement, in which you are encouraged to talk about the entirety of your background, such as why you are pursuing a PhD, your interests and background in the field, skills and training, and academic honors or awards.

Aside from the above written samples, prospective students must also submit a graduate CV and three letters of recommendation. There are no specific requirements for who must write the letters, but the letter writers are encouraged to write about the candidate’s past experiences and how they connect to the school’s PhD program.

• Undergraduate or master’s degree
• Cumulative GPA of 2.75
• 1500-word writing sample
• Reasons Statement
• 3 letters of recommendation

There are as many persuasive reasons to pursue a PhD as there are not to pursue one. If you want to know how to find a PhD topic or program, this article has outlined a few examples of some of the “easiest” PhD programs to get into. But completing a PhD is another matter. There are no “easy” PhD programs to complete since they all take years of hard work and dedication. Ultimately, the easiest program for you will be one you are completely immersed in and thoroughly enjoy; focusing on why the program is a great fit is a winning strategy when preparing your application materials.

One reality you have to confront is that the attrition rate for most PhDs is somewhere between 36–51% across a variety of fields and disciplines ranging from the arts and humanities to engineering and life sciences. The other thing you should know – and something all PhD admission consultants should tell you – is that pursuing a PhD is an all-encompassing commitment that will take over your life. As discussed above, program lengths are measured in years (minimum of five) and there are few guarantees that, if you do finish, you will be able to reap the rewards, at least in the short term.

Another growing demographic comprises people who complete all the requirements to obtain a PhD (coursework, credits) but fail on the most crucial element: writing and defending a dissertation. These students are known as “all but dissertation” and are forced to explain to prospective employers why they failed.

As if actually completing the degree wasn’t hard enough. the labor market is not always welcoming to PhDs either. High-level positions in government and academia often filled by PhDs are not plentiful, and other industries will require skill sets that PhD graduates typically do not have, such as managerial or organizational knowhow.

Whether you benefit from obtaining a PhD in the end depends on many factors, like your field and whether you’re an expert in an in-demand profession (computer science, bioengineering, engineering). While many graduate students enter doctorate programs to secure financial stability, other students are interested purely in acquiring knowledge and researching a topic or subject that they are passionate about. For these students, getting a PhD and all the attendant aspects (learning, investigating, writing) have an inherent value, so the less-than-stellar employment prospects or salary gains are not a priority. That’s not to suggest they are not mindful of the real-world costs of a getting a doctorate; rather, they are willing to put in the effort to fund their studies by applying for grants, working as part-time faculty or securing public or private loans, and accepting the bare-bones lifestyle of many graduate students.

Reasons to Get a PhD

More Employment Opportunities

PhDs do make more money than other degree types, like masters, but not by a lot. Some studies say PhDs earn up to $13,000 more than lower degree-holders, but it is more complicated than that. Those earnings only start to show after decades. Master’s graduates have a head-start on PhDs and enter the workforce much earlier than PhD students, so they start saving and earning more.

PhDs may have more employment opportunities open to them, in either academia or the private sector, but starting salaries for PhDs top out at $50,000. Moreover, by the time PhD graduates start looking for jobs, master’s graduates have already ascended to senior or executive positions earning six figures and more. Positions that offer starting six-figure salaries also do not often require candidates to have PhDs, giving master’s graduates yet another advantage.

Life-Long Research and Learning Opportunities

Money isn’t everything. Many PhD students are not motivated by financial gain or opportunity but are simply passionate about exploring and investigating a particular field for a lifetime. Funding this research is always a concern, but one component of becoming a PhD is learning how to write grant applications or fundraise in other ways that are essential to keeping research projects going.

Learning Valuable Skills

Skills like grant writing, fundraising, and networking are good to have if you want to know how to find a job in academia , and there are private sector companies that value them as well, but PhDs should also try to incorporate other skill sets into their toolkit. If they are interested, they can pursue dual-degree programs that pair a PhD with another degree type like an MBA or a medical degree, such as an MD-PhD program . They can also seek out professional development courses that prepare them for entering the workforce once they complete their degree, if they decide to go into the private sector.

Becoming an Expert

Some of the allure of a PhD is the authority it gives in a specific topic or subject, which means you are someone who is regularly sought out by various sectors and industries for expert advice. Being the foremost expert in a particular field can unlock many opportunities, but your specialty determines how much you can earn or what those opportunities are.

You can find that your expertise suddenly falls out of favor, like all the hundreds of Soviet physicists who had nothing to do once the USSR defunded the space program. But the opposite can also happen. Think of all the previously anonymous MDs and PhDs who became household names during the COVID-19 pandemic because they were experts in virology, immunology, or epidemiology.

The easiest PhD programs to get into are not the easiest ones to complete. Ultimately, if you are thinking about entering a PhD program, you need to weigh the benefits (potentially higher earnings, more employment opportunities, expert-level education) of pursuing the degree and the disadvantages (significant investment of time and money, uncertain job market, lost earnings). Go into the project with eyes open and a topic you want to study for many years, and your PhD experience will be much easier.

There is no easy answer. If you are someone who wants to pursue a particular line of investigation that requires years of observation and experimentation, then getting a PhD may seem like a natural path. But if you are more concerned about raising your earning potential or seeking more senior positions, in general, a master’s degree checks all those boxes without having to invest so much time and money. 

Any PhD program that does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores (GRE or GMAT) or have a master’s degree is generally easier to get into than other programs, but these programs have their own requirements, which could involve anything from writing personal statements and letters of intent to one-on-one interviews. 

All PhD programs are different, and they can variously require applicants to have a master’s degree, GRE or GMT scores above 300, and demonstrated aptitude in various fields, especially if you are pursuing a PhD in the sciences or engineering. There are also written requirements like submitting letter of intent, research resume , and a record of other notable academic or non-academic achievements. 

The answer is yes and no. Over many years, your education and training will pay off as you slowly start to pull away from other degree types in terms of salary. But it will take many years. During this time, other degree holders can attain higher positions and salaries that are comparable to yours, thereby negating any future gains. 

The duration of every PhD program is different, but the minimum length of most PhD programs is six years. Some schools have degree time limits – six or seven years, in some cases – meaning you must complete the program and present your dissertation by the time limit or be ejected. Master’s degrees, in comparison, usually take only about two years to complete. 

If you are wondering whether you need a master’s or PhD to apply to medical school s, the answer is no. However, if you are applying as a non-traditional medical school applicant who has a master’s or doctorate in another field, it can help improve your medical school application. 

The assumption is that PhD graduates generally do very well in the labor market. They do have low unemployment rates when compared to other degree holders. But one obstacle PhD graduates run into is having “surplus schooling”; in other words, they are over-qualified for a majority of positions. Only 2% of positions in the labor market require a PhD, which is one thing to remember if you are thinking about pursuing a doctorate. 

The cost of a five-year degree ranges between $150,000 and $200,000, but there are some PhD programs that provide full funding as well as a stipend. PhD students also work as teaching assistants for up to two years and can apply for grants or secure other funding sources like federal aid loans. 

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45 Graduate Degree Jobs That Pay More Than $100K

Earning an advanced degree can lead to six-figure salaries in some fields, like law, medicine and tech.

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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. Here are a few 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 in the U.S.

Getty Image |

• 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, or BLS. The median annual salary for aerospace engineers was $122,270 in 2021, and the BLS predicts that jobs in this field will increase 6% between 2021 and 2031 – a growth rate that matches the average among all U.S. occupations.

(Getty Images) |

• 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 2021 was $331,190, and the BLS predicts that the number of jobs in this field will increase by 1% between 2021 and 2031.

• 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 is possible to get an engineering management position with only an undergraduate degree, it is common for people who want to advance 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 2021 was $152,350, and a 2% increase in jobs is projected within this field between 2021 and 2031.

An astronomer is a scientist who studies celestial bodies using telescopes and other devices, and may be an expert in such areas as black holes or asteroids. An astronomer's goal is to increase understanding of the universe through compelling research. In exchange for this scholarly work, 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 $128,160 in 2021. The BLS predicts that the number of jobs in this field will be 6% higher in 2031 than in 2021, on par with the average growth rate predicted among all U.S. occupations.

(Brett Ziegler for USN&WR) |

• Biochemist or biophysicist in the wholesale trade industry

Biochemists and biophysicists are scientists who research the chemical and physical aspects of living organisms. They often work in laboratories, using devices like lasers, microscopes and X-rays to investigate scientific questions. In 2021, the median annual salary among U.S. workers in this field who were employed by wholesale companies was $126,470, according to the BLS . The demand is high for biochemists and biophysicists in general, with the number of jobs expected to grow by 15% between 2021 and 2031. Working in this field in independent research and development ordinarily requires a Ph.D. degree .

• Chief executive

Though becoming a CEO entails taking on an intimidating amount of responsibility, being in charge often results in a generous paycheck. The median salary among chief executives in 2021 was $179,520, and these positions often come with stock options and performance bonuses. However, these leadership roles will likely become more scarce in the near future. The BLS predicts the number of chief executive jobs will be 7% lower in 2031 than it was in 2021. The education required to become a chief executive varies widely depending on industry – and so does the salary – but executives at big corporations frequently have MBA degrees.

• Computer and information research scientist

People interested in inventing new technology and coming up with clever applications of existing technology may want to consider a career as a computer and information research scientist. These scholars and innovators, who typically have a graduate education, sometimes create new computing languages and find ways to optimize how people use technology. The median salary in this field was $131,490 in 2021, and employment will be 21% higher in 2031 than in 2021, the BLS predicts .

(iStockphoto) |

• Computer and information systems manager

Computer and information systems managers, sometimes called IT managers , are responsible for directing the maintenance and improvement of their organization's technology systems. Though it's possible to work in this kind of management position with only an undergraduate degree, many organizations require an advanced degree. The median annual salary among IT managers was $159,010 in 2021, according to the BLS, which estimates 16% growth in the number of these jobs from 2021 to 2031.

• Computer hardware engineer

Though it's possible to find a job as a computer hardware engineer with only a bachelor's degree, some employers require a master's degree. Experienced workers in this profession – which focuses on designing computer equipment – may choose to pursue an MBA. The median U.S. salary in this field in 2021 was $128,170, according to the BLS, which estimates that the number of jobs for computer hardware engineers will be 5% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Data scientist

Data scientists collect and analyze data, which is then used to make decisions within a company. While this profession requires at least a bachelor's degree, many employers prefer candidates to have a master's or doctoral degree . Not only do data scientists make six figures – $100,910 in 2021 – they are also high in demand: BLS predicts the number of jobs in this field will increase by 36% from 2021 to 2031.

A career in dentistry is one of the top job options in the U.S., according to the U.S. News Best Jobs rankings. The first step on this career path is admission into an accredited dental school. However, dental doctoral programs tend to be highly selective. In order to practice dentistry, candidates must fulfill the licensing requirements in their chosen jurisdiction. U.S. dentists earned a median salary of $163,220 in 2021, per BLS data. The BLS projects 6% growth in this occupation from 2021 to 2031.

Economists conduct research and offer analysis on various financial topics such as employment, wages and the economic impact of proposed laws or regulations. Workers in this field took home a median salary of $105,630 in 2021, according to the BLS. The number of U.S. economist jobs is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, per BLS data .

• Environmental engineer for the federal government

Environmental engineers design technology and facilities that help protect the environment, provide guidance on pollution cleanup efforts and conduct environmental inspections. Those who work for the federal government often receive six-figure paychecks. The median annual wage for federal environmental engineers was $110,240 in 2021, according to the BLS, and employment of environmental engineers in general is expected to grow 4% between 2021 and 2031.

(Getty Stock Images) |

• Family and general practitioner

One of the advantages of becoming a primary care doctor is the opportunity to forge a long-term bond with patients and guide them through various health challenges, ranging from minor ailments to major issues. Family and general physicians tend to have numerous regular clients. The average salary among U.S. family and general practitioners was $235,930 in 2021, and employment of physicians and surgeons will likely be 3% higher in 2031 than it was in 2021, according to the BLS.

• General internal medicine physician

Primary care physicians who typically work with adults are known as general internal medicine physicians. They can diagnose and treat illness and usually provide nonsurgical care. They are experts at recognizing the signs of problems with a person's internal organs such as the stomach, kidneys, liver and digestive tract. The average salary among these types of doctors in 2021 was $242,190, the BLS reports . Employment for general internal medicine physicians is expected to be 2% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• General pediatrician

A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in treating children, including injuries and diseases. The median salary among U.S. general practice pediatricians in 2021 was $198,420, which is less than the average salary among doctors in general. According to the BLS , the number of jobs for general pediatricians will be 1% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Human resources manager

Human resources managers oversee the hiring process within an organization, discuss company benefits and mediate conflict among employees. The median annual wage among human resources managers was $126,230 in 2021, with the highest salaries being in the professional, scientific and technical services industries, BLS reports . Jobs in this field are expected to grow 7% between 2021 and 2031.

• Industrial production manager

Manufacturing facilities have many moving parts, so they can be challenging to run. Someone who joins this profession can expect to come up with strategies for increasing productivity and ensuring safety at manufacturing facilities. According to the BLS, the median salary among industrial production managers in 2021 was $103,150. Employment in this field is expected to be 3% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Information security analyst

Given data breaches at corporations and in governments, information security analysts play a vital role in shielding confidential information from hackers. In 2021, the median salary among information security analysts was $102,600, the BLS reports. Employment within this field is expected to surge: The BLS predicts that the number of jobs available to information security analysts in general will be 35% higher in 2031 than it was in 2021.

• Judge and hearing officer

Judges and hearing officers render legal verdicts, giving them tremendous power and authority in the courtroom. According to the BLS, median annual wages among these professionals came in at $128,710 in 2021. The BLS predicts that employment within this field will be 1% lower in 2031 than in 2021.

• Law professor

Law professors are responsible for training the next generation of attorneys, such as through law school clinics where J.D. students get a chance to apply their legal knowledge. The BLS reports that the median annual salary for this line of work was $123,470 in 2021, and the bureau also notes that employment in this field is likely to be 9% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

A law degree can lead to jobs in many different fields , such as aviation law, bankruptcy law, construction law, environmental law, intellectual property law, real estate law or tax law. The median salary for attorneys was $127,990 in 2021, according to BLS data . This occupation's outlook for growth is 10% from 2021 to 2031.

• Marine engineer or naval architect for the federal government

Aspiring shipbuilders may want to pursue a career as a marine engineer or naval architect . According to the BLS, the median salary among individuals who held this type of position for the federal government in 2021 was $104,920. The BLS predicts that employment in this field overall will be 4% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Marketing manager

Business leaders who help promote companies often earn enormous salaries. According to the BLS, the median salary among marketing managers in 2021 was $135,030. A marketing manager determines the level of demand for a particular product or service, identifies potential consumers and markets that a company can sell to and helps set the price for whatever a company is selling. Employment within this field will be 10% higher in 2031 than in 2021, the BLS projects .

• Mathematician

Those with a graduate degree in math  might research mathematical theories or work to apply mathematical techniques in fields such as engineering and management. Mathematicians brought home a median annual salary of $108,100 in 2021, according to BLS data . The BLS predicts that the number of jobs for mathematicians will stay the same from 2021 to 2031.

• Medical scientist focused on research and development in the physical, engineering and life sciences sectors

Someone who dreams of making a scientific discovery that can save lives may enjoy a career as a medical scientist. This kind of scientist specializes in conducting research that clarifies what causes illness, what prevents sickness and which therapies work best. According to the BLS, employment within this occupation, excluding epidemiologists, will be 17% higher in 2031 than in 2021. As of 2021, the median salary among medical scientists concentrated on research and development in the physical, engineering and life sciences industries was $102,210, the BLS reports.

• Mining and geological engineer focusing on oil and gas extraction

Careers in the oil and natural gas sectors can lead to large paychecks. Mining and geological engineers who specialized in extracting oil or gas from the earth had a median salary of $131,020 in 2021, according to the BLS. The BLS predicts that overall employment for mining and geological engineers will be 2% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Nurse anesthetist

Nurse anesthetists deliver anesthesia to patients and provide related care before, during and after medical procedures. According to the BLS, nurse anesthetists earned a median salary of $195,610 in 2021. The BLS predicts the number of nurse anesthetist jobs, which require at least a master's degree, to grow 12% from 2021 to 2031.

• Nurse midwife

A nurse midwife focuses on providing primary care to women and newborns. These professionals often perform gynecological exams and provide family planning assistance, and typically offer prenatal care and deliver babies. Their median salary in 2021 was $112,830, according to the BLS , and employment is expected to be 7% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

(Morsa Images | Getty Images)

• Nurse practitioner

There are many kinds of nurses , and some do not need to have graduate degrees. Nurse practitioners , however, are required to have graduate credentials. These highly trained nurses can assess, diagnose and treat patients, and they ordinarily specialize in treating a particular area. The median annual salary for nurse practitioners was $120,680 in 2021. The BLS predicts that the number of jobs for nurse practitioners will skyrocket, increasing by 46% between 2021 and 2031.

• Obstetrician-gynecologist

An obstetrician-gynecologist, or OB-GYN , is a doctor who focuses on women's health issues. They can help women by providing birth control, addressing fertility problems, performing cancer screenings of sex organs and overseeing the pregnancy and childbirth processes. The average salary for an OB-GYN in 2021 was $296,210, according to the BLS. Employment within this profession is expected to be 2% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Operations research analyst for the federal government

People who love math may thrive in a career as an operations research analyst . Someone with this job designs analytical models that can decipher complicated data and determine the most efficient way to run an organization. Among people who held this position in the federal government in 2021, the median annual pay was $120,950. Plus, the job outlook for this profession is bright. According to the BLS, overall employment among all operations research analysts will likely be 23% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Optometrist

Optometrists perform eye examinations, prescribe glasses or contact lenses and may provide vision therapy treatments. These medical professionals brought home a median salary of $124,300 in 2021, according to the most recent BLS data. The number of jobs for optometrists is projected to increase by 10% from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS. This growth is expected to be driven partly by an aging U.S. population.

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeon

There are many types of dentists. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon is trained to perform surgeries on the mouth, jaws, teeth, gum, neck or head. The median annual salary for this kind of surgeon was $208,000 or more in 2021, according to the BLS, which predicts that employment in this field will be 5% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Orthodontist

Dentists who specialize in aligning crooked teeth using braces and other techniques are referred to as orthodontists . The median salary among these health care providers in 2021 was $208,000 or more, according to the BLS, and employment in this occupation will likely be 5% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

Pharmacists fill drug prescriptions, consult with patients about their medication and provide some immunizations, in addition to other tasks. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $128,570 in 2021, according to BLS data. The number of jobs for pharmacists is projected to increase by 2% between 2021 and 2031.

• Physician assistant

Physician assistants work in teams with other medical practitioners to provide patient care. They aren't full-fledged doctors, but graduates with these degrees can examine, diagnose and treat patients. Becoming a physician assistant requires rigorous graduate education, though not as much schooling as required to become a doctor. According to BLS, these workers earned a median annual salary of $121,530 in 2021. The number of physician assistant jobs is projected to grow rapidly – by 28% – from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.

Someone with an interest in the scientific laws that govern the universe may enjoy a career as a physicist. The science of physics often touches on complicated philosophical questions about how the universe began and why the universe looks the way it does today. In 2021, the median salary for physicists was $152,430. According to the BLS, the number of jobs for physicists will likely be 8% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

Podiatrists are experts on treating health conditions that affect the lower extremities of the human body, such as feet, ankles and lower legs. The median annual wage among these professionals was $145,840 in 2021, according to the BLS, and job growth within this field is expected to increase 2% from 2021 to 2031.

• Political scientist

Someone who is fascinated by politics, wants to study how governments function and is concerned about government mismanagement might excel as a political scientist . These individuals often analyze government policies and practices and sometimes study voter behavior. The median salary among political scientists in 2021 was $122,510, the BLS reports . Employment within this field is expected to be 6% higher in 2031 than 2021, according to the BLS.

• Prosthodontist

Dentists who specialize in helping individuals with missing or damaged teeth are called prosthodontists . These dentists can also address missing gum tissue. The median salary among U.S. prosthodontists in 2021 was $100,950, according to the BLS, which predicts that employment within this occupation will be 5% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Public relations or fundraising manager

Public relations managers protect and promote the reputation of a company or person, while fundraising managers work to raise money for an organization. According to the BLS, the median salary among public relations and fundraising managers in 2021 was $119,860. Employment within this field is expected to be 8% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

• Software developer

Because of the increasing influence of technology on the way Americans work and live, demand is rising for individuals who are skilled at creating software. The BLS predicts that the number of jobs for software developers , along with quality assurance analysts and testers, will be 25% higher in 2031 than in 2021. Median pay for these tech experts was $109,020 in 2021.

Doctors who cut people open and perform operations have a highly stressful job that requires a steady hand. Becoming a surgeon requires years of specialized training after medical school. According to the BLS, the average salary in 2021 among U.S. orthopedic surgeons – excluding pediatric – was $306,220, and the number of jobs for surgeons in the U.S. will be 3% higher in 2031 than in 2021.

Veterinarians

Not only do veterinarians address injuries and illnesses of household pets, some provide medical care to livestock and other wild animals. In addition to advising owners about the health of their pets, these professionals also administer vaccines and perform surgeries. The median salary among veterinarians in 2021 was $100,370, with the number of jobs in this field expected to increase by 19% from 2021 to 2031, according to BLS data .

Learn more about applying to grad school.

Explore our  applying to graduate school section for information about finding and getting into the right school for you. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

High-paying graduate degree careers

• Veterinarian

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