Which Degrees Pay the Most Long-Term (and Where to Get Them)

Choosing the right degree isn't just about following your passion—it's also a strategic decision that can significantly impact your financial well-being. In today's competitive job market, understanding which degrees offer the highest long-term earning potential is crucial. 

For instance, graduates in fields like economics, medicine, and law often secure top salaries. However, it's not just about the degree; the university you choose also plays a pivotal role in your earning potential. 

In this blog, we'll explore which degrees pay the most over time and guide you on where to pursue them for maximum return on investment.​

The Degrees That Pay the Most Over Time

While passion and interest should guide your degree choice, it’s also worth considering the financial rewards that come with different career paths. Some fields not only offer high starting salaries but also see significant pay growth as professionals gain experience and move into senior roles.

Medicine & Healthcare

Medical careers require years of study and training, but they offer some of the most secure and well-paid jobs in the UK.

• Doctors

• Starting salary: £29,000–£36,616 (during foundation training)

• Mid-career salary: £59,175–£95,400 (as a specialty doctor)

• Late-career salary: £96,990–£107,155+ (as a consultant, with private doctors earning significantly more)

• Pharmacists

• Starting salary: £32,000

• Mid-career salary: £50,000–£60,000

• Late-career salary: £70,000+ (senior/management roles)

• Dentists

• Starting salary: £39,467–£45,000

• Mid-career salary: £49,909–£61,825

• Late-career salary: £131,946+ (as an NHS consultant or private practitioner)

Why These Degrees Pay Well:

• High demand for healthcare professionals ensures job security.

• Opportunities to specialise and increase earnings over time.

• Private practice and consultancy roles offer even higher salaries.

Engineering & Technology

Engineering and technology fields are among the fastest-growing, with salaries reflecting the increasing demand for expertise.

• Software Engineers

• Starting salary: £30,000–£40,000

• Mid-career salary: £60,000–£80,000

• Late-career salary: £100,000+ (senior/lead roles)

• Petroleum Engineers

• Starting salary: £30,000+

• Mid-career salary: £80,000–£100,000

• Late-career salary: £120,000+

• AI Specialists

• Starting salary: £32,000

• Mid-career salary: £60,000–£80,000

• Late-career salary: £100,000+

Why These Degrees Pay Well:

• Constant innovation and demand for technological advancements.

• High global demand for AI, software, and energy-related engineers.

• Specialised skills often lead to rapid salary growth.

Law & Business

A law or business degree can open doors to some of the highest-paying careers, particularly in corporate law and finance.

• Corporate Lawyers

• Starting salary: £27,000–£40,000

• Mid-career salary: £80,000–£150,000

• Late-career salary: £200,000+ (partner-level lawyers)

• Investment Bankers

• Starting salary: £45,200

• Mid-career salary: £100,000–£200,000 (including bonuses)

• Late-career salary: £500,000+

• MBAs (Master of Business Administration)

• Starting salary: £30,000–£50,000

• Mid-career salary: £60,000–£100,000

• Late-career salary: £150,000+ (executive-level roles)

Why These Degrees Pay Well:

• Corporate and financial sectors offer lucrative performance-based bonuses.

• There is a high demand for legal and financial expertise in global markets.

• Career progression can lead to six-figure salaries and beyond.

STEM Fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

STEM careers are essential to many industries, from finance to research and development.

• Data Science

• Starting salary: £30,000–£40,000

• Mid-career salary: £60,000–£80,000

• Late-career salary: £100,000+

• Actuarial Science

• Starting salary: £25,000–£35,000

• Mid-career salary: £50,000–£70,000

• Late-career salary: £100,000+

• Mathematics

• Starting salary: £20,000–£30,000

• Mid-career salary: £40,000–£60,000

• Late-career salary: £80,000+ (for applied mathematics roles)

Why These Degrees Pay Well:

• STEM skills are highly transferable across industries.

• High demand in the finance, technology, and research sectors.

• Employers value analytical and problem-solving expertise.

The Best Universities for High-Paying Degrees

Choosing the right university can have a significant impact on future earning potential. While some institutions are known for their academic prestige, others stand out for producing graduates who go on to secure high salaries in fields such as tech, finance, and engineering.

Below, we look at the top universities in the US and globally, along with an analysis of whether attending a private or public institution makes a difference to long-term earnings.

Top U.S. Universities

Some of the highest-earning graduates come from prestigious US universities, particularly those with strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and business programmes.

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Known for its dominance in technology and engineering, MIT graduates achieve an average mid-career salary of around £154,000 ($196,900), with STEM degrees leading the way in high earnings.

• Princeton University – A top performer in salary rankings, Princeton alumni earn an average mid-career salary of £152,000 ($194,100), making it one of the best choices for long-term financial success.

• Harvard University – Famous for its law, business, and medical programmes, Harvard graduates often enter high-paying fields such as consulting, investment banking, and healthcare.

• Stanford University – With a strong reputation in business and technology, Stanford produces some of the highest-paid professionals, particularly in Silicon Valley.

• United States Naval Academy – Offering a combination of technical and leadership training, graduates secure mid-career salaries of around £147,000 ($187,800), reflecting the value of military and engineering expertise.

Other notable mentions include Caltech, which excels in producing high-earning STEM graduates, and Ivy League institutions such as Yale and Columbia, which have strong links to high-paying industries like finance and law.

Best Global Institutions

Beyond the US, several universities worldwide are recognised for producing high-earning graduates across various industries.

• University of Oxford (UK) – Renowned for its law and business programmes, Oxford graduates often secure top-tier positions in banking, law firms, and multinational corporations.

• University of Cambridge (UK) – A leader in STEM and economics, Cambridge alumni frequently work in lucrative sectors such as finance and technology.

• ETH Zurich (Switzerland) – A powerhouse in engineering and technology, ETH Zurich graduates are in high demand for roles in artificial intelligence, robotics, and software engineering.

• Imperial College London (UK) – Known for its strong focus on science and engineering, Imperial graduates often enter high-paying, research-intensive industries.

• National University of Singapore (NUS) – A top-ranked university in Asia, NUS has a strong reputation for STEM and business degrees, with graduates highly competitive in the global job market.

Public vs. Private Universities: Does It Matter?

One common debate is whether attending a private university leads to higher earnings compared to a public institution. While private universities often dominate rankings, many public universities also produce high-earning graduates.

• Private Universities

• Typically offer stronger alumni networks and recruitment pipelines into high-paying industries like finance, consulting, and technology.

• Examples include Ivy League institutions (Harvard, Princeton) and elite private universities such as MIT and Stanford.

• Public Universities

• Provide excellent value for money with lower tuition fees while still delivering strong graduate earnings.

• Examples include:

• University of California, Berkeley – Highly ranked for engineering and computer science.

• University of Michigan – Well-regarded for its business school (Ross School of Business) and engineering programmes.

• Graduates from top public universities may earn slightly less initially than graduates from private institutions but can still achieve substantial mid-career salaries.

While private universities generally lead in graduate salaries due to stronger industry connections, top public universities offer a cost-effective alternative, providing competitive career opportunities and strong long-term earnings.

Factors That Influence Long-Term Earnings

Several factors play a crucial role in determining long-term earnings. Professional networks and broader economic trends can influence these:

1. The Impact of Networking and Alumni Connections

Networking is one of the most significant factors in long-term salary growth. Alumni networks from top universities, such as Harvard and Oxford, provide valuable connections that can unlock opportunities in high-paying industries like finance, law, and technology.

Networking can lead to valuable opportunities such as internships, mentorship, and referrals for high-paying roles. Professionals who build strong networks often experience faster career progression and higher salary growth, with studies showing that maintaining these relationships results in quicker salary increases over time.

2. Location and Cost of Living Adjustments

The location of your job can significantly impact your earnings. While cities like London or New York tend to offer higher salaries, the cost of living in these areas can offset some of those gains. On the other hand, professionals who are willing to relocate to areas with skill shortages can command higher salaries.

3. Job Market Demand and Future Growth Trends

The demand for skilled professionals in specific industries is crucial for long-term earnings. Fields experiencing significant growth will likely offer high salaries in the future.

• Industry Growth: High-demand industries like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biotechnology are expected to see substantial salary increases as the demand for skilled professionals rises.

• Skill Relevance: Jobs requiring advanced technical skills, such as data or actuarial science, are expected to remain lucrative. Meanwhile, jobs susceptible to automation may experience stagnating wages.

• Economic Conditions: Broader economic factors, including inflation and labour market conditions, influence salary trends. For example, healthcare careers remain stable and well-paid, even during economic downturns.

How To Maximise Your Return on Investment (ROI)

As you think about your future, making smart decisions early on can really help maximise your return on investment (ROI). Whether it’s through scholarships, exploring alternative educational paths, or gaining early experience through internships, there are plenty of ways to set yourself up for success without taking on huge amounts of debt.

1. Scholarships, Grants, and Minimising Student Debt

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are a fantastic way to reduce the financial burden of higher education. Many universities in the UK offer scholarships based on merit, financial need, or specific talents. Some examples you can look out for include:

• Crankstart Scholarships (Oxford University): If your household income is £32,500 or less, you might be eligible for support.

• Funds4Uni Scholarship: Open to all UK students, it helps with university expenses, from fees to living costs.

• Money for Books Scholarship: This scholarship offers £250 worth of book vouchers to help with textbook costs.

• GoTranscript Scholarship: Available for students in their last year of school or first year of university, requiring a short personal statement or essay.

Make sure you start looking for these scholarships early and apply to as many as you can. Also, don’t forget about university-specific funding — many universities have their own scholarships and bursaries to offer.

Government and Private Grants

There are also government and private grants that can help reduce your education costs. Some of the most helpful grants include:

• Residential Bursary Fund: For students who need to live away from home for their studies, this fund can help with accommodation costs.

• Private Grants: Look for private grants from charities and trusts that help students in need. Some examples include The King's Trust Grants, Sir John Fisher Foundation, and The Wolfson Foundation.

Strategies for Minimising Student Debt

To keep your student debt under control, here are some tips:

• Before University: Apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible, and if you can, take advanced courses in high school to earn college credits early.

• During University: Budget wisely, track your spending, and consider working part-time to cover living costs.

• After Graduation: Once you're out of school, try to make extra payments on your loans to reduce interest, and look into refinancing options if you can.

2. Alternative Educational Paths: Trade Schools, Certifications, and Boot Camps

Not every high-paying career requires a university degree. Alternative educational paths can offer faster, cheaper, and still lucrative ways to start your career.

Trade Schools

Trade schools are a great option for those who want to learn practical skills and start working quickly. Courses in fields like plumbing, electrical work, and construction management are much more affordable than university tuition. Plus, these jobs can pay well, with salaries ranging from £30,000 to £50,000 annually.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career through a trade school, here are some well-known options to consider:

• City of Westminster College: Offers a wide range of vocational courses, including plumbing, electrical engineering, and construction.

• Trades College: Specialises in providing industry-recognised qualifications in trades like plumbing, gas fitting, and electrical installation.

• West London College: Provides hands-on training in various trades such as carpentry, electrical engineering, and plumbing.

• Kirklees College: Known for its comprehensive trade programs, including construction and engineering courses.

• Bury College: Offers vocational qualifications in a variety of trades, including construction and electrical work.

These schools can give you the practical training you need to start your career quickly and with minimal debt, making them a great option for students who want to enter the workforce sooner.

Certifications

Certifications are another way to break into high-paying industries without spending years in a university classroom. Programs in IT (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect) or finance (e.g., ACCA) can be completed in a short amount of time and at a fraction of the cost of a degree. These credentials can lead to jobs with starting salaries of £40,000 to £70,000.

Boot Camps

For students interested in tech careers, boot camps like Makers Academy, HyperionDev or Le Wagon offer intense, short-term training in software development or data analysis. These boot camps typically last 12 to 24 weeks, and graduates often land roles with salaries between £40,000 and £70,000 in fields like AI, fintech, and software development.

3. The Importance of Internships and Gaining Early Experience

Internships are one of the best ways to gain hands-on experience, build your network, and boost your earning potential once you graduate. Here’s why they are important:

• Practical Skills: Internships provide real-world experience, making you more attractive to employers. For example, engineering students can get hands-on experience at companies like Rolls-Royce, while business students can intern at top consulting firms or banks.

• Networking Opportunities: Internships help you meet professionals in your field, and these connections can lead to full-time job offers or valuable mentorship.

• Higher Starting Salaries: Research shows that graduates with internship experience tend to earn higher salaries compared to those who haven’t interned. For example, tech interns at companies like Google can earn over £20/hour, and many land six-figure salaries after graduation.

Early Work Experience

Getting part-time jobs, apprenticeships, or internships while still in high school or during university can also help you gain valuable skills and start building your career early. Degree apprenticeships are another option, allowing you to earn a degree while working and earning an income — without incurring huge amounts of student debt.

Preparing Early: The Key to Success in High-Paying Careers

Building a successful career doesn’t just happen overnight. It’s about setting strong foundations from an early age. If you’re thinking about securing a high-paying career, your academic journey from KS2 all the way through GCSEs and A-Levels plays a crucial role in shaping your future.

The Importance of Excelling in KS2, KS3, GCSE, and A-Level Studies

Every stage of your education contributes to the person you’ll become, both academically and professionally. Excelling in KS2 and KS3 sets you up for a smooth transition into your GCSEs. These years lay the groundwork for the more complex subjects you’ll study later, and mastering them gives you a solid understanding that will be useful throughout your life.

By the time you hit GCSEs, the stakes become higher, especially if you’re considering further study or aiming for a high-paying job straight after school. GCSEs help you build the skills and knowledge in core subjects, like Math, Science, and English, which are highly valued by employers and universities. A strong performance here can open doors to top universities or apprenticeships that can lead to well-paying careers.

When you reach A-Levels, you’re going deeper into subjects that can set you apart in competitive fields like engineering, medicine, law, and technology. The depth of knowledge you gain here helps demonstrate your readiness for advanced study or high-level professional roles. A strong performance in A-Levels gives you the competitive edge needed for top universities and jobs.

How Strong Foundations in Maths, Science, and English Set You Up for Success

In Maths, Science, and English, you’re learning core skills that apply to almost every career. These subjects are essential for students who want to pursue careers in fields such as technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and even management.

• Maths helps you develop problem-solving and analytical skills that are crucial in almost any job, from finance to data science.

• Science teaches you to think critically and experiment—skills that can be applied in industries like medicine, research, engineering, and technology.

• English sharpens your communication skills, which are key in every profession. Being able to express yourself clearly, whether in writing or speaking, is a huge asset.

You set yourself up for both university and career success by excelling in these subjects during GCSEs and A-Levels. Top employers are looking for candidates who can think logically, analyse problems, and communicate effectively, all of which are skills you can gain through strong performances in these subjects.

The Value of Mentorship and Guidance from Past Top-Achieving Students

While excelling in academics is essential, you can also benefit from learning from those who’ve already walked the path. Mentorship from past top-achieving students or professionals who have made it in the careers you aspire to can be invaluable.

Mentors can give you:

• Insight into what it takes to succeed in competitive subjects.

• Advice on managing workload, stress, and balancing school with other commitments.

• Guidance on which extracurricular activities, internships, or volunteer work could strengthen your university or job applications.

Having someone who has already succeeded in the areas you're interested in can provide practical advice, motivation, and inspiration, helping you stay on track and push through challenges.

Get a Head Start with Our Online Courses & Mentorship Program

At MyEdSpace, we’re all about giving you the tools and support you need to excel in your studies and set yourself up for success in high-paying careers. Whether you're working on KS2, KS3, GCSEs, or A-Levels, our courses are designed to help you get ahead and reach your full potential.

We offer courses in Maths, English, and Sciences including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Our courses are designed to help students like you build strong foundations, all while following the national curriculum. 

With MyEdSpace, you’ll have access to:

• Interactive Live Lessons: Learn from world-class teachers in real time through engaging online sessions.

• High-Quality Learning Resources: Access a wide range of high-quality materials, including workbooks and study notes designed to support your learning journey and boost your understanding.

• Flexible Scheduling: Attend lessons that fit into your busy life so you can revise and learn at your own pace.

• The Largest UK Online Student Community: Connect with like-minded students who share your goals and find support, knowing you're never alone in your learning journey.

Upgrade to Our Pro Package for Mentorship from A/A* Students

Want even more tailored guidance? Our Pro Package takes your learning to the next level. As a Pro member, you'll be mentored by A/A* students from top UK universities, offering their valuable insight to help you do the same.

What you’ll get with the Pro Package:

• Personalised Mentorship: Get one-on-one advice from top achievers who understand your pressure and can guide you through exam strategies and subject mastery.

• Exam Strategies: Learn tips and tricks for tackling exam questions and managing exam stress.

• University Application Guidance: Benefit from advice on how to craft your personal statement and choose the best universities for your goals.

By upgrading to the Pro Package, you’re not just investing in courses—you’re investing in a brighter future with expert mentorship to guide you every step of the way.

Why MyEdSpace?

We know you want to succeed, and we’re here to make that happen. Since 2022, MyEdSpace has attracted over 3,000 active students. Over 82% of our students have achieved their desired grades or better, thanks to our affordable, engaging, and effective approach to online learning.

Get ahead, stay ahead, and give yourself the best shot at a high-paying career with MyEdSpace.

Ready to take your education to the next level? Join MyEdSpace today!

Conclusion

Choosing the right degree is one of the most important decisions you’ll make—it directly impacts your long-term financial success and career opportunities. To set yourself up for the best possible future, start preparing early by excelling in key subjects like Maths, Science, and English. The stronger your foundation, the easier it will be to succeed in your exams and pursue the career of your dreams.

Don't forget the value of mentorship—having guidance from top achievers can give you an edge in both your studies and your future career.

Take the first step today towards a high-paying career by signing up for our online courses and mentorship program. With MyEdSpace, you'll have everything you need to excel and achieve your goals!