Top-Paying Degrees
1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
An MBA is often considered the top degree in the business world, although PhDs in certain specialties are certainly available. No matter what industry you’re in, an MBA degree will be an enormous asset. Some companies will provide tuition assistance or reimbursement in exchange for your commitment to continue working for them after you earn your degree.
Potential Careers:
Entrepreneur
Sales and Marketing Manager
VP Business Development
Chief Executive
Salary Range:
$50,000-$105,000
2. Master of Health Administration
An MHA is an advanced degree from a college or university awarded after a minimum number of academic units are completed, usually requires a thesis paper and/or an extensive internship and takes two years to complete. A Bachelor’s degree is a required prerequisite. Coursework includes classes in population health, economics, and healthcare marketing.
Potential Careers:
• Healthcare Administrator
• Case Manager
Salary Range:
$66,900 – $105,200
3. Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic, Fashion or Interior Design
BFA programs in fashion design will include training in textiles, fabrics, and ornamentation as well as studies in creative design and drawing, pattern-making and sewing, management, and commercial realism. Interior design programs will strike a balance between mastering design skills and fostering creative, innovative thinking about interior spaces. In a graphic design program, you’ll learn design principles and put them to work with the computer software all designers use today. A BFA and portfolio are required for most entry-level and advanced design positions.
Potential Careers:
Fashion or Textile Designer
Interior Designer
Graphic Designer
Creative or Art Director
Salary Range:
$35,000 – $100,000
4. Bachelor of Arts in Elementary or Secondary Education
A Bachelor’s degree in elementary education provides graduates with the training necessary for initial teaching certification K-5. A Bachelor’s degree in secondary education provides graduates with the training necessary for initial teaching certification 6-12. Students concentrating in secondary education choose a content area specialty and pursue a dual major in their content area and in education. Students can pursue a teaching certificate in secondary education in a variety of subjects, including mathematics, science, English, social studies, and foreign language. Keep in mind that a Bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for the field of teaching.
Potential Careers:
K-5 General Classroom Teacher
Middle School Teacher (variety of subjects)
High School Teacher (variety of subjects)
Salary Range:
$33,000 – $53,000
5. Associate of Arts in Financial Services
This two-year Associate of Arts degree provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills used in a broad variety of financial service industries. Students learn the core fundamentals of banking, accounting, insurance, investment, and financial planning. These valued skills open up a variety of career opportunities for graduates.
Potential Careers:
Financial Services Agent
Insurance Sales Agent
Stock Broker