The 10 Best Degrees to Get in 2025

Choosing what to study is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your future—and with the job market constantly evolving, it’s more important than ever to pick a degree that aligns with both your passion and long-term opportunities.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best degrees to get in 2025, highlighting fields that offer strong job growth, high earning potential, and relevance in today’s tech-driven and globalized economy. Whether you’re aiming for a career in healthcare, technology, business, or creative industries, these ten degrees stand out as smart, future-proof choices for students entering college in 2025.

• What Are the Best Degrees to Get in 2025?
• Computer Science
• Nursing
• Data Science
• Cybersecurity
• Healthcare Administration
• Supply Chain Management
• Construction Management
• Finance
• Management Information Systems
• Electrical Engineering
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Are the Best Degrees to Get in 2025?

Choosing the right college major can shape your future career and financial stability. This blog explores the best degrees to get 2025, based on three key criteria that define a degree’s real-world value:

• Median annual salary. This reveals the earning potential both right after graduation and in mid-career.
• Projected job growth (2024–2034). This measures how in-demand certain fields will be over the next decade.
• Employment rate. This reflects how easily graduates can find work and build long-term careers.

Together, these factors highlight which degrees offer the best mix of opportunity, stability, and success in 2025. Here’s a quick overview of the best degrees to get in 2025:

Median salaries and growth projections are from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook and Employment Projections data. Employment rates are inferred from recent labor market reports (Federal Reserve Bank of New York data and related analyses).

Let’s talk about each degree in more detail below.

1. Computer Science

A Computer Science (CS) degree ranks at the top in best degrees to get in 2025 due to its excellent salary potential and booming job market. After all, Computer Science drives innovation in nearly every domain.

Its high salary levels and growth are fueled by the digital transformation of businesses, the expansion of software and app development, artificial intelligence advancements, and a persistent talent shortage in tech.

Career paths and industries

The tech sector is the primary employer of CS grads. However, virtually all industries hire CS majors—finance and banking, healthcare, retail/e-commerce, entertainment, and government or defense (cyber operations).

Common job titles include:

• Software Developer
• Software Engineer
• Systems Programmer
• Web Developer
• Data Engineer
• AI/Machine Learning Engineer
• Mobile App Developer
• Cloud Engineer
• Systems Analyst

With experience, CS graduates typically progress to roles such as Lead Developer, Software Architect, Project Manager, or Technical Product Manager. Some even become Startup Founders or CTOs, leveraging their technical background.

Top schools offering this program

Leading universities for computer science in the country include:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). While MIT doesn’t have a single Computer Science major, the school offers multiple computer science-related programs (such as Computer Science and Engineering, and Artificial Intelligence and Decision Making). This heavy interdisciplinary approach allows you to be more versatile upon graduation so they can find opportunities in many fields.
• Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon has the School of Computer Science, compared to other institutions that only have CS as a department. You can choose from five undergraduate degrees in the School of Computer Science and many other concentrations.
• Stanford University. Stanford is in the heart of Silicon Valley, offering CS majors countless opportunities for internships and employment. Stanford also has the CS major track system, which lets you explore specialized areas before choosing which one you want to pursue.

2. Nursing

Nursing is consistently one of the best degrees to get in 2025 due to its high employment demand, stability, and meaningful impact. Nursing offers the reward of helping others, along with high job satisfaction and financial stability.

Career paths and industries

The majority of nurses work in hospitals. Other major employers include ambulatory healthcare services such as physicians’ offices, clinics, and home health agencies. Nursing homes and residential care facilities, public health departments, schools, and the military are also significant employers.

Common job titles include:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• ER Nurse
• ICU Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse
• Oncology Nurse
• Surgical Nurse
• Home Health Nurse
• Public Health Nurse
• School Nurse

With advanced degrees, titles expand to Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Midwife, or Nurse Educator. Experienced nurses can advance to Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, and eventually Director of Nursing or Chief Nursing Officer.

Top schools offering this program

Here are schools you should consider if you’re planning to take up Nursing:

• University of Pennsylvania. Consistently ranked among the nation’s best, UPenn Nursing emphasizes evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary learning. Students benefit from access to top-tier clinical sites through the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
• Johns Hopkins University. Known for its leadership in healthcare innovation and research, Johns Hopkins School of Nursing integrates advanced simulation technology and community-based practice. Graduates often secure high placement rates in specialized clinical fields.
• Duke University. Duke’s School of Nursing combines rigorous academics with global health opportunities and state-of-the-art facilities. Its emphasis on leadership, research, and patient-centered care leads to excellent NCLEX pass rates and career outcomes.

3. Data Science

Data Science is one of the fastest-growing fields, combining statistics, computer science, and domain knowledge to derive insights from data. We live in the era of “big data,” and organizations need experts to interpret and extract value from massive datasets, making it one of the best degrees to get in 2025.

Career paths and industries

Every sector is adopting data-driven strategies, so data scientists find opportunities in tech, finance, healthcare, marketing and e-commerce, consulting, and government research.

Common job titles include:

• Data Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Quantitative Analyst (Quant)
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Data Engineer
• Statistician
• Analytics Consultant

As they gain expertise, professionals can advance to Senior Data Scientist, AI Researcher, Data Science Manager, or Chief Data Officer.

Top schools offering this program

Here are the best schools to consider for Data Science:

• Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon stands out for its integration of data science, computer science, and artificial intelligence through the School of Computer Science and Heinz College. Students gain hands-on experience in predictive modeling, machine learning, and real-world analytics projects with industry partners.
• University of California, Berkeley. UC Berkeley offers top-ranked programs in statistics and information science, supported by its Division of Computing, Data Science, and Society. The school’s close ties to Silicon Valley provide students with unparalleled research and internship opportunities in tech and analytics.
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology. MIT’s data science curriculum emphasizes computational methods, probability, and large-scale systems analysis. Its interdisciplinary approach connects statistics, computer science, and engineering to tackle complex real-world challenges across industries.

4. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity roles are sometimes described as “recession-proof” due to the constant and growing need to safeguard information assets, making it one of the best degrees to get in 2025. High-profile data breaches and cyberattacks have made security a top priority in both private and public sectors.

Career paths and industries

Technology and finance are major employers of cybersecurity graduates since they are prime targets for cyberattacks.

Government agencies and defense also hire cybersecurity professionals to protect national security and public infrastructure. Healthcare organizations, consulting firms, retail and e-commerce, and energy/utilities companies also staff significant security teams.

Common job titles include:

• Information Security Analyst
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Network Security Engineer
• Security Consultant
• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
• Incident Response Specialist

With experience, professionals can advance to Security Architect, Cybersecurity Manager, Security Engineer, Penetration Testing Lead, or Chief Information Security Officer, overseeing an organization’s security strategy.

Top schools offering this program

These are the schools worth considering if you’re planning to take up Cybersecurity:

• Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon’s Information Networking Institute (INI) is globally recognized for its pioneering work in cybersecurity, cyber defense, and information assurance. The INI and CyLab provide cutting-edge research opportunities, blending computer science, engineering, and policy.
• University of Texas at Austin. UT Austin’s cybersecurity programs emphasize both technical depth and practical application through its Center for Identity and the Texas Advanced Computing Center. Students gain real-world experience in areas like network security, cryptography, and risk management.
• University of Southern California. USC’s Viterbi School of Engineering offers cybersecurity programs focused on digital forensics, secure systems design, and cyber defense strategy. Its location in Los Angeles and strong industry partnerships give students access to internships and research in high-demand sectors.

5. Healthcare Administration

Healthcare is a massive and continually growing sector; even when the general economy slows, healthcare tends to expand. This makes healthcare administration careers relatively recession-resistant.

Career paths and industries

Most graduates work in hospitals. Outpatient care centers, group medical practices, and nursing home/long-term care facilities are also major employers. Some also work in public health departments, insurance companies, and healthcare consulting firms.

Common job titles include:

• Medical and Health Services Manager
• Hospital Administrative Fellow
• Health Project Coordinator
• Clinic Office Manager
• Assistant Nursing Home Administrator

With experience, graduates become Department Managers, Practice Managers (for physician groups), Health Program Directors, or Hospital Administrators. Eventually, some ascend to executive roles like Chief Operating Officer or Chief Executive Officer of a hospital or healthcare company.

Top schools offering this program

These programs often offer internships in renowned hospitals and have curricula aligned with the American College of Healthcare Executives:

• University of Michigan (Ann Arbor). The University of Michigan offers one of the nation’s most respected undergraduate healthcare administration programs, combining public health, management, and policy. Students benefit from access to the Michigan Medicine network and real-world internships in top healthcare organizations.
• The George Washington University (Washington, D.C.). Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, the school’s program emphasizes healthcare policy, management, and leadership. Its proximity to major hospitals and government agencies provides students with unmatched internship and networking opportunities.
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. UNC’s healthcare administration program integrates coursework in economics, policy, and public health to prepare students for leadership roles in the healthcare industry. The Gillings School of Global Public Health offers strong connections to hospitals and healthcare systems across the Southeast.

6. Supply Chain Management

The pandemic-era supply shocks highlighted the importance of efficient logistics and created new urgency to hire supply chain experts. Companies are investing heavily in supply chain resilience, automation, and analytics. As a result, supply chain management has become one of the fastest-growing business disciplines, making it one of the best degrees to get in 2025.

Career paths and industries

Major employers include manufacturing companies, the federal government, and professional and technical services firms. The wholesale trade sector and retail/e-commerce (think Amazon and large retailers) are also big employers, as is transportation and warehousing.

Common job titles include:

• Logistics Coordinator
• Supply Chain Analyst
• Operations Analyst
• Procurement Specialist
• Inventory Planner
• Warehouse Supervisor
• Transportation Planner

With a few years of experience, they advance to titles like Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Manager, Procurement Manager, Inventory Control Manager, or Distribution Center Manager. At senior levels, they can become Director of Supply Chain, Global Logistics Director, or Chief Supply Chain Officer, overseeing end-to-end supply operations for companies.

Top schools offering this program

Here are the best schools if you’re planning to pursue a career in Supply Chain Management:

• Michigan State University. Michigan State’s Broad College of Business is widely recognized as a global leader in supply chain management education. It offers hands-on learning through corporate partnerships, case competitions, and international study opportunities.
• Arizona State University. ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business is known for its innovative and data-driven approach to supply chain and logistics. Students gain real-world experience through internships, global projects, and partnerships with Fortune 500 companies.
• Pennsylvania State University. Penn State’s Smeal College of Business has a supply chain program that’s consistently ranked among the best nationwide, emphasizing analytics, procurement, and operations management. Its strong corporate network provides students with access to internships and job placements at top logistics firms.

7. Construction Management

A Construction Management degree equips students to oversee building projects and is among the best degrees to get in 2025, owing to its high pay and steady demand. This degree shines by offering a path into leadership roles in construction with strong earnings.

Career paths and industries

The obvious employer is the construction industry itself—including large general contracting firms, specialty subcontractors, and real estate developers. Some also work for government agencies overseeing public works and infrastructure projects.

Common job titles include:

• Construction Manager
• Assistant Project Manager
• Construction Supervisor
• Site Engineer
• Estimator
• Scheduling Engineers
• Cost Control Engineers

With experience and successful project deliveries, they move up to Project Manager, Senior Construction Manager, Program Manager, or Director of Construction within a company. Many eventually become General Contractors running their own construction business.

Top schools offering this program

If you’re planning to take Construction Management, look into these schools:

• Virginia Tech. Virginia Tech’s Myers-Lawson School of Construction is highly regarded for blending engineering principles with management training. Students engage in hands-on projects and internships that prepare them for leadership roles in construction and project management.
• Texas A&M University. Texas A&M’s Department of Construction Science offers a rigorous curriculum emphasizing technology, safety, and sustainable building practices. Strong industry partnerships ensure students gain practical experience through internships and cooperative education programs.
• Purdue University. Purdue’s construction management program combines technical coursework with business and leadership training. Its students benefit from state-of-the-art labs, industry-sponsored projects, and a strong network of employers in the construction sector.

8. Finance

Finance is the lifeblood of business—companies large and small require financial expertise for decision-making and growth. A finance degree equips students with knowledge of investments, financial markets, and corporate finance, which can lead to lucrative jobs on Wall Street or in corporate management.

Career paths and industries

Banking and financial services are the primary industries that employ finance graduates—this includes investment banks, commercial banks, asset management firms, private equity and venture capital firms, insurance companies, and wealth management firms. Additionally, consulting companies and accounting firms hire finance majors for advisory roles.

Common job titles include:

• Financial Analyst
• Investment Banking Analyst
• Credit Analyst
• Financial Advisor
• Budget Analyst

With experience, they can become Senior Financial Analysts, Investment Associates, Finance Managers, or Portfolio Managers. In the corporate world, they might move up to Finance Director, Controller, and ultimately Chief Financial Officer. In investment roles, successful finance professionals can become Vice Presidents, Managing Directors, or even start their own investment funds.

Top schools offering this program

The best schools for studying Finance include:

• University of Pennsylvania. UPenn’s Wharton School is consistently ranked as the nation’s best for undergraduate finance, offering rigorous coursework in investment management, corporate finance, and financial modeling. Its graduates are highly sought after by top Wall Street firms and global financial institutions.
• New York University. Located in the heart of Manhattan’s financial district, NYU’s Stern School of Business gives students direct access to leading investment banks, consulting firms, and hedge funds. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, case competitions, and real-world financial analysis.
• University of Michigan. UMich’s Ross School of Business is known for its strong finance curriculum that combines theory with practical application through its signature Multidisciplinary Action Projects (MAP). Students gain experience analyzing real business challenges and often secure roles in investment banking and corporate finance.

9. Management Information Systems

MIS professionals serve as the crucial bridge between technical teams and business leadership. This makes them highly valuable—they can translate business requirements into tech solutions and ensure IT investments deliver value.

Career paths and industries

Major employers include consulting and IT services firms, financial services, healthcare organizations, and manufacturing or retail companies. Government agencies and nonprofits also hire MIS majors to modernize their IT infrastructure.

Common job titles include:

• Business Systems Analyst
• IT Consultant
• Database Administrator
• Systems Analyst
• IT Project Managers

With a few years of experience, they move up to IT Manager, Information Systems Manager, or Senior Business Analyst. Eventually, many become Director of Information Systems, IT Program Manager, or assume executive roles like Chief Information Officer or Chief Technology Officer, guiding the overall tech strategy of an organization.

Top schools offering this program

If you’re planning on studying Management Information Systems in college, here are the top schools you should look into:

• Carnegie Mellon University. Carnegie Mellon’s MIS program stands out for its integration of information systems, business analytics, and technology management. Students benefit from the university’s strong emphasis on innovation and partnerships with major tech companies, leading to excellent career outcomes.
• University of Texas at Austin. UT Austin’s McCombs School of Business consistently ranks among the top in the nation for MIS, offering a curriculum that blends business strategy with information technology. Students gain hands-on experience through projects, internships, and industry collaborations with top firms.
• University of Arizona. The University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management has a long-standing reputation for excellence in Management Information Systems, focusing on data analytics, cybersecurity, and IT management. Its graduates enjoy high placement rates in consulting, technology, and Fortune 500 companies.

10. Electrical Engineering

Among engineering fields, Electrical Engineering (EE) stands out as one of the best degrees to get in 2025 because of its high salary levels and enduring demand across industries. Electrical engineering has long been associated with innovation—it’s behind everything from power grids and semiconductor chips to robotics and 5G networks.

Career paths and industries

A significant number of graduates work in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing. Many are employed in the energy sector, including utilities and renewable energy companies. Aerospace and defense companies also rely heavily on EEs for avionics and communication systems.

Telecommunications (network equipment, wireless carriers) is another major employer. Additionally, sectors like automotive, industrial automation/robotics, and medical devices all hire electrical engineers to develop and maintain sophisticated electrical/electronic systems.

Common job titles include:

• Electrical Engineer
• Hardware Engineer
• Design Engineer
• Test Engineer
• Systems Engineer

With considerable experience, graduates often move into positions such as Lead Engineer, Technical Director, or Chief Engineer for a product line.

Top schools offering this program

Here are some of the best electrical engineering schools to consider:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology. MIT’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) is world-renowned for groundbreaking research in robotics, communications, and microelectronics. Students benefit from a strong emphasis on innovation, hands-on labs, and collaboration with leading tech companies and research institutions.
• Stanford University. Stanford’s electrical engineering program thrives on its close connection to Silicon Valley, providing unmatched opportunities for research and internships in technology and entrepreneurship. Its curriculum encourages creativity and interdisciplinary exploration in areas like photonics, circuits, and artificial intelligence.
• University of California, Berkeley. UC Berkeley’s EECS program is consistently ranked among the best in the world for both research and teaching. Students gain access to cutting-edge labs and projects in computer architecture, power systems, and semiconductor technology, supported by a strong network of industry leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes a degree valuable in 2025?

A degree is valuable in 2025 if it combines high earning potential, strong job growth, and solid employability. The most in-demand programs strike a balance between salary (how well graduates are paid from entry to mid-career), job growth projections from 2024 to 2034, and employment rate, or how quickly graduates secure stable work.

Beyond numbers, degrees that develop transferable skills such as data analysis, critical thinking, digital literacy, and leadership remain the most adaptable and valuable.

2. Which degrees offer the highest salaries in 2025?

In 2025, the highest-paying degrees include Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, and Finance, with median salaries ranging from $100,000 to $170,000.

3. Are STEM degrees still the best choice for future job security?

Yes. STEM degrees remain the most secure career paths thanks to rapid growth in fields like data science, cybersecurity, and software development. They offer skills like problem-solving, technical literacy, and quantitative reasoning that are resistant to automation and valuable across multiple industries.

4. How can I choose the best degree for my career goals?

Choose a degree that integrates personal interest with market demand. Start by assessing your strengths, researching salary and growth data from reliable sources, and selecting programs that align your passions with stable, high-demand careers like healthcare, tech, or business analytics.

5. Which industries are expected to grow the most by 2030?

The fastest-growing U.S. industries through 2030 include healthcare, technology, renewable energy, data analytics, and logistics. Driven by digital transformation, aging populations, and sustainability efforts, these sectors will continue creating high-demand, well-paying jobs for the next decade.

Takeaways

• Choosing the right degree in 2025 means balancing passion with practicality.
• The best programs—ranging from Computer Science and Nursing to Data Science and Finance—combine high salaries, strong job growth, and excellent employability.
• As industries evolve, degrees that build adaptable, future-ready skills like analytical thinking, digital literacy, and leadership will stand out the most.
• Pursuing one of the best degrees to get in 2025 is a smart move toward career success and stability. Our personalized coaching program helps students choose high-value fields with strong pay, growth, and employability while aligning their studies with personal strengths and future goals to stand out in college admissions and beyond.