The Most In-Demand Degrees for 2025: Insights from Prodigy Finance

In a world of rapid technological advancements and evolving global needs, the demand for certain skills is skyrocketing. Prodigy Finance has identified several emerging fields that are poised for significant growth, reflecting the rising demand for specialised expertise. Here’s a look at the top courses expected to gain traction in 2025, along with career opportunities and potential salary insights.

“These courses reflect the aspirations of a generation that prioritises global impact and interdisciplinary expertise. We are proud to support students in achieving their dreams,” said Sonal Kapoor, Chief Commercial Officer at Prodigy Finance.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Master of Business Administration (MBA) remains one of the most sought-after degrees worldwide, offering a versatile foundation for various career paths. In 2025, certain MBA specialisations are expected to surge in demand due to advancements in technology and changing market dynamics.

An MBA in Finance continues to be highly relevant, providing graduates with opportunities in investment banking, corporate finance, and risk management. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for financial managers is projected to grow by 17% through 2033, with the average pay of around $156,100 per year. Overall, the average MBA starting salary in the USA is around $125,000. Career options include management consultants, investment bankers, risk managers or even launching their own business. Stanford Graduate School of Business, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management are among the top business schools worldwide. These institutions are renowned for their comprehensive curricula and strong industry connections, preparing students for successful careers in various sectors.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

Statista reports that the global AI market size was valued at approximately USD 184.04 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach around USD 826.76 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2030) of 27.67%. This rapid expansion is driving a significant demand for professionals in AI and Machine Learning (ML).

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for AI-related roles like data scientists is projected to grow by 36% through 2033. Average salaries for these roles range from $77,140 to $136,600 depending on the specific position and level of experience. Top universities offering these programs include Kent State University, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University Of Bridgeport, from those listed by QS World University Rankings 2024. These programmes equip students with the skills to develop cutting-edge technologies through critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and time management.

Public Policy

The Master of Public Policy (MPP) is a high-demand degree as governments worldwide look to find solutions for complex social and economic challenges. This programme equips students with analytical tools needed for evaluating and influencing public policies effectively.

Career options for MPP graduates include policy analysts, government affairs directors, and nonprofit managers in many sectors. Average annual salaries range from $70,000 to $120,000. Leading institutions such as the Australian National University, the University of Oxford, and the University of California, Berkeley are renowned for their MPP programmes.

Cybersecurity

Microsoft has noted that digital threats targeting organisations worldwide are increasing. Cybersecurity has become a top priority for businesses across all sectors. Specialised master’s programmes in cybersecurity cover a range of topics that prepare students for various roles within the field. Many programmes also offer specialisations to focus on specific areas such as Security Informatics, Cybersecurity in Computer Science, or Cyber Defense.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in information security is projected to grow by 33% by 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. Salaries in cybersecurity are highly competitive, with median annual earnings ranging from $79,000 for entry-level roles to over $178,255 for senior positions, such as Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). Johns Hopkins University, Dakota State University, George Washington University, and Monash University are some of the universities known for their outstanding cybersecurity programmes.

Public Health

Public health is an increasingly important field that has gained significant attention, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 1.9 million openings for healthcare professionals each year.

Master’s programmes in this discipline encompass a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, health policy, and community health initiatives. Graduates with a degree in public health have various career options available to them. They can work as Epidemiologists, who study disease patterns; health services managers, who oversee healthcare facilities; or public health educators, who promote health awareness and education within communities. Leading institutions like Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine are at the forefront of providing high-quality education and research opportunities in this essential field.

Law (LLM)

If you’re a lawyer looking to specialise in areas like international law, human rights, or intellectual property, an LLM is the way to go. It can serve as a stepping stone toward a PhD in law. Renowned institutions like Stanford Law School, University College London (UCL), and Australian National University (ANU) are among others that offer exceptional LLM programs. An LLM can boost your career by preparing you for roles like legal consultant, corporate lawyer, or human rights advocate. International LLM programmes often provide students with valuable networking opportunities through interactions with faculty members, industry professionals, and fellow students.

Accounting

As financial regulations become increasingly intricate, the demand for skilled accountants and auditors has never been greater. An advanced degree in accounting can offer a wide range of rewarding and essential careers in the financial world.

Graduates can step into roles such as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), Financial Analysts, or Auditors, all of which are crucial in navigating today’s complex economic landscape. Top institutions like the University of Mississippi, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and New York University are renowned for their robust accounting programs. These schools provide students with the expertise and practical skills needed to thrive in key positions within multinational corporations, international law firms, and influential organisations like the United Nations.

Biological Sciences

Biological Sciences is a rapidly growing field, booming with exciting developments in genomics, biotechnology and environmental science. Top universities such as the University of Leeds, Queen’s University Belfast and University of California, Santa Cruz are leading the way with programs that go deep into molecular biology, earth sciences and ecology.

These programs give students the skills to make a real impact in cutting-edge research and innovation. Graduates in this field find themselves at the centre of breakthroughs across industries like pharmaceuticals, renewable energy and ecological conservation. Whether working in research institutions, biotech companies or pharmaceutical companies, they are continuously pushing the boundaries of what science can do, to create a healthier, more sustainable world.

These master’s programmes offer a pathway to a fulfilling career in the ever changing world. Prodigy Finance makes these opportunities available to international students. By offering loans with no co-signers or collateral, they allow individuals from all backgrounds to pursue their education at top international universities. As the world of education changes, students need to look into these in-demand programmes that will grow them personally and professionally and contribute to a global society.