Dreaming of a new career path? Pursuing a master’s degree can set you apart and open doors to new opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- A master’s degree accelerates career transitions with specialized knowledge, transferable skills, and a stronger professional network.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that master’s graduates earn about 20% more than bachelor’s holders.
- Flexible learning paths like OEd PostGrad’s online and non-thesis options let professionals upskill without pausing their careers.
Have you ever thought about switching careers but felt uncertain about where to start?
Many professionals see a master’s degree as one of the most effective ways to upskill and transition into a more rewarding career. According to the U.S. BLS, master’s degree holders earn about 20% more than bachelor’s graduates.
Beyond higher earnings, a master’s degree builds new skills and broadens your career opportunities. But with so many options available, which is the best master’s degree for a career change?
We’ll walk through the perks of earning a master’s degree and highlight the top programs you can pursue today.
Is a Master’s Degree Worth It for a Career Change?
Yes. Pursuing master’s degree programs for a career change is a smart move because it helps you:
- Gain specialized knowledge in your new field
- Upskill quickly and bridge gaps
- Expand your professional network
- Increase earning potential
- Build career confidence and credibility
Top 10 Master’s Degrees for a Career Change in the Philippines
Are you considering pursuing a master’s degree? These ten programs are among the most versatile and in-demand options today.
1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
An MBA remains one of the most popular ways to pivot careers. It provides well-rounded training in leadership, management, finance, and marketing. An MBA helps you gain skills that are transferable across industries.
There are flexible options today that make this program more appealing. You can pursue a master’s in business administration non-thesis program if you want practical applications over academic research. Online education platforms like OEd PostGrad offer a flexible learning setup that helps professionals upskill for a career change.
2. Master’s in Data Science
Analytical minds who enjoy working with numbers will find data science a game-changer. Businesses across industries are actively seeking professionals who can interpret data and turn insights into smarter decisions.
A master’s in data science equips you with skills in programming and machine learning. It’s beneficial if you’re moving from a non-technical field but want to break into tech. The rising demand for data analysts makes it a good option to future-proof your career.
3. Master’s in Finance
A master’s degree in finance allows professionals from non-finance backgrounds to make a successful pivot. You’ll learn about investment masters, risk management, and financial modeling.
It’s a strong choice for you if you want to move into banking, corporate finance, or even entrepreneurship. For those considering an MBA specialty, finance is often the most rewarding track.
4. Master’s in Education
Pursuing a master’s in education allows career changers to pivot into teaching, training, curriculum development, or educational policy.
Education degrees aren’t just for classroom teachers. Many graduates move into corporate training, e-learning design, and nonprofit educational programs.
5. Master’s in Public Health (MPH)
Healthcare continues to expand, and a master’s in public health is a powerful way to shift into the sector without being a doctor or nurse. MPH programs cover epidemiology, health policy, and community health management.
MPH graduates often work in government agencies, NGOs, and international health organizations.
6. Master’s in Information Technology (IT)
Tech professionals are in demand, but you don’t need to start as a programmer to join the field. A master’s in IT helps career changers learn about cybersecurity, systems management, and project leadership.
It’s also ideal for people from business or even creative industries who want to integrate tech into their work.
7. Master’s in Psychology
Psychology isn’t limited to clinical practice. A master’s degree in this field opens opportunities in human resources, organizational development, workplace culture, and counseling. It equips professionals with skills to understand behavior and support mental well-being in both corporate and community settings.
Employers value the insights psychology graduates bring into understanding people and systems.
8. Master’s in Engineering Management
A master’s in engineering management is perfect for engineers who want to step into managerial roles without leaving their technical foundation behind.
Graduates often pursue leadership tracks in construction, manufacturing, and technology, where they manage large-scale projects.
9. Master’s in Communication
A master’s in communications prepares professionals for careers in media, PR, and corporate branding.
Graduates often advance into leadership roles in marketing, human resources, and even politics. Beyond technical skills, the program also prepares career changers to navigate both traditional and digital platforms.
10. Master’s in Environmental Science
Do you want a career that combines passion with purpose? A master’s in environmental science is a good option. The world needs experts who can address climate change and sustainability.
Career changers from business, law, or social sciences can shift into roles in environmental consulting, policy, or research.
5 Tips on How to Choose the Right Master’s Degree
Ready to pursue postgraduate studies for a career change? Here are five tips to guide your decision:
- Research programs carefully –Look for degrees that match your career goals. Start by exploring why a non-thesis master’s is a good option.
- Seek advice – Connect with alumni, mentors, or professionals in your target field for insights.
- Plan ahead – Budget your time, energy, and finances realistically.
- Leverage short courses – Try to take a short course first to test your interest.
- Assess transferable skills – Identify strengths from your current career that will give you an edge in your new field.
Start Your Career Change with OEd PostGrad
A master’s degree can be your stepping stone into a new field. Choosing the right program can give you the confidence, skills, and credibility to succeed.
OEd Postgraduate makes it easy to upskill for a career change with flexible, fully online learning options.
Whether you’re exploring online MBA degrees or other postgraduate tracks, you can balance studies with your current job while preparing for your next big move.
Take the first step toward a new chapter in your professional life. Enroll in OEd Post Grad today.
FAQs about Master’s Degrees for Career Change
1. Does OEd PostGrad offer non-thesis master’s programs?
Yes. OEd PostGrad provides non-thesis options for specific programs. It allows professionals to focus on practical applications and career-ready skills rather than academic research.
2. Can I study while working full-time?
Absolutely. OEd PostGrad is fully online and asynchronous, meaning you can access lectures, submit requirements, and complete coursework on your own schedule.
3. How long does it take to finish a master’s degree at OEd PostGrad?
Most OEd PostGrad master’s programs can be completed in two years, depending on your pacing and course load.