The United States of America (USA) is one of the most popular study locations for students. The USA features some of the greatest educational institutions in the world with a variety of science programs and offers lucrative salaries after MS in the USA.
A master's degree is one of the most valuable degrees in the USA which attracts many international students. The annual average base salary of an MS degree holder in the USA is $83,000. (Payscale 2024)
A Masters of Science (MS) degree in the US is a popular choice among international students. As colleges in the US are at the forefront of innovation, research, and strategy, students can look forward to a prosperous career and lucrative job opportunities after completing their MS degrees.
Robotics, Engineering, Computer Science, and Data Science are the most lucrative and high-paying occupations in the US after pursuing an MS degree. Masters degree is one of the most valuable degrees in the USA which attracts many international students, as the annual average base salary of an MS degree holder in the USA is USD 83,000. (Payscale 2024)
In the job market, a master's degree in science has recently gained interest. An employee with a master's degree is prioritized over others. Specializations in subjects like robotics, pharmacy, computer science, engineering, data science, and information technology are among the most demanding master's degree holders. Let’s dig deeper into the scope of MS from a job perspective.
1.Job Market Demand and Opportunities
MS degrees are often required for specialized positions, such as data scientists and nurse practitioners. For instance Data scientists' employment is projected to grow by 36% till 2031 {as per Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS)}. And nurse practitioners' employment is expected to grow by 40% (BLS).
2. Earning Potential
MS graduates typically earn higher salaries. For instance, the average starting salary for an MS in computer science is about $98,000 (as per National Association of Colleges and Employers). In addition, individuals with a master's degree earn a median annual wage of $75,650, compared to $63,440 for bachelor’s degree holders (BLS).
3. Career Advancement & Leadership
Advanced degrees facilitate career advancement. The Harvard Business Review notes that MS graduates are more likely to qualify for senior and executive roles.
4. Networking & Professional Connections
Approx. 72% of MS graduates report their degree helped build valuable professional networks (Graduate Management Admission Council).
5. Long-Term Career Impact
Advanced degrees offer greater career flexibility. Approx. 35% of master’s degree holders work in fields different from their undergraduate study (Georgetown University).
Average Salary for MS Graduates in USA
The average MS salary in the USA is around $81,848 annually as per BLS. Now, let’s dive deeper into how much salary you can expect in the various cities of the country.
Average Salary for MS in USA - City Level
Here is a list of the average salary after an MS in the USA, varying from city to city, depending on factors such as cost of living.
Technology & Engineering Fields:
San Francisco, CA - $120,000 to $150,000
Seattle, WA - $110,000 to $140,000
New York, NY - $100,000 to $130,000
Austin, TX - $100,000 to $130,000
Boston, MA - $100,000 to $130,000
Finance & Business Fields:
New York, NY - $110,000 to $140,000
San Francisco, CA - $100,000 to $130,000
Chicago, IL - $90,000 to $120,000
Los Angeles, CA - $85,000 to $115,000
Washington, DC - $90,000 to $120,000
Healthcare & Life Sciences Fields:
Boston, MA - $100,000 to $130,000
San Francisco, CA - $95,000 to $125,000
New York, NY - $90,000 to $120,000
Philadelphia, PA - $85,000 to $115,000
Chicago, IL - $85,000 to $115,000
Education & Social Sciences Fields:
Washington, DC - $75,000 to $100,000
New York, NY - $70,000 to $95,000
Boston, MA - $65,000 to $90,000
San Francisco, CA - $60,000 to $85,000
Chicago, IL - $60,000 to $85,000
Please note that this is a general idea of what you might expect, though keep in mind these figures can fluctuate based on factors like industry trends, company size, and local cost of living:
Top Universities in USA with Courses in MS
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Management) programs are primarily included in MS or Masters programs in the United States. Engineering, Information Technology, Business Management, and Data Science are popular choices among international students seeking an MS degree in the United States. Top organizations throughout the world value MS degrees earned from US universities.
Top IT firms, brands, and multinationals employ MS graduates from these universities and pay them well.
Here are some of the best universities in the United States of America, along with the courses they offer and their duration:-
Here are the best specialization courses to consider pursuing an MS in the USA:
MS in Computer Science
MS in Data Science
MS in Biostatistics
MS in Marketing
MS in Finance
MS in International Management
MS in Pharmacy
MS in Embedded Systems
MS in Petroleum Engineering
While there are a lot of other specialization courses for pursuing an MS in the USA, the above-listed ones are the most trending ones to consider.
Top-Paying Industries for MS in USA
Graduating with a Master of Science degree from the United States of America opens up a lot of potential opportunities in various industries. Here is a list of top-paying industries for MS in the USA:
Industry
Average Pay Scale (annually)
Computer Science & Engineering
$1,11,449
Data Science & Analytics
$1,55,536
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
$1,65,430
Healthcare
$1,13,325
Finance
$1,16,518
5 Highest Paying Masters of Science (MS) Jobs in USA
1)MS in Computer Science Salary in USA
Computer science and engineering are among the industries that pay the most to pursue a master of science in the United States of America. Pursuing an MS in computer science comes with a lot of career options.
Let us explore opportunities when considering an MS in computer science in the USA salary and other career paths.
2)Software Developer
As an MS graduate in the United States, considering software development as a career can be a wise decision to earn a wholesome amount and approach potential job opportunities in the future.
Market Demand: The demand for software engineers is quite high in the United States. This is due to the need for more innovative software solutions and the limited lifespan of code. Moreover, as the complexity of projects increases, the industry experiences a surge in software engineer demands.
Salary Range: The average base salary of a software engineer in the United States is around $105,538 per year. (as per Glassdoor)
3)Information Technology Manager
As an IT manager, the candidate's role will be to manage the company's system requirements. This includes ensuring that both the hardware as well as the software systems function properly and are constantly updated and maintained.
Market Demand: The demand for IT manager jobs will likely surge 15.4% between 2022 and 2032, according to the BLS. Around 86,000 jobs are likely to be opened during this period.
Salary Range: The average base salary of an IT manager in the United States is $97,364 annually. (as per Indeed)
4)Database Administrator
A database administrator is responsible for taking care of issues and troubleshooting those related to the database. As a database administrator, your job will be maintaining, securing, and operating databases to ensure that data is properly stored and retrieved.
Market Demand: According to a survey of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment growth of database administrator jobs is expected to surge by 7% between 2022 and 2032. Hence, the demand for database administrators is quite high in the US market.
Salary Range: The average base salary of a database administrator is $75,995 in the US. (as per Indeed)
5)Computer Network Architect
A computer network architect is a person responsible for designing, building, and maintaining data communication networks for the company. These can include LANs, WANs, intranets, or any other network connections.
Market Demand: According to the BLS, computer network architect jobs are expected to grow by 3.5% between 2022 and 2032, therefore showing great potential for newcomers.
Salary Range: The average salary of a computer network architect can be around $127,554 in the US (as per Indeed).
6)DevOps Engineer
As a DevOps engineer, your main role will be to build, test, and maintain the infrastructure of software. You will also be responsible for pushing, pulling, and coding on live servers and other similar tasks.
Market Demand: The demand for DevOps engineers has recently recorded a surge in the US market. This is due to the increased demand for production releases and more, which has made this job profile in demand.
Salary Range: An average DevOps Engineer earns around $1,39,424 annually in the US (as per Glassdoor).
MS in Finance Salary in USA
An MS in Finance in the USA provides knowledge of advanced financial analysis, investment strategies, and risk management, making graduates highly desirable in the job market. Here’s a look at some top career opportunities for graduates with an MS in Finance:
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts evaluate financial data to help businesses and individuals make informed investment decisions.
Market Demand - The field of financial analysis is growing at a steady pace. Financial and investment analysts' employment will grow by 8% from 2022 to 2032. This growth amounts to about 29,000 new financial analyst jobs by 2032.
Salary Range - $63,000 and $100,000 per year, as per Glassdoor.
Financial Manager
Financial managers are responsible for the financial health of an organization. They oversee financial reports, investment activities, and long-term financial planning.
Market Demand - Financial managers who can navigate international finance and the complex world of financial instruments and securities, including derivatives, are highly marketable to employers. A 16% employment growth for financial managers between 2022 and 2032 is expected.
Salary Range - $96,000 and $200,000 per year as per Glassdoor.
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance, finance, and other industries. They help design policies and strategies to minimize the financial impact of risk.
Market Demand - The demand for actuaries is high, and employers compete for top talent. Nearly 50% of insurance companies looking to hire need more staff to meet growing business demands or enter new markets. This shows the strong need for actuaries in the industry.
Salary Range - $100,000 and $200,000 per year, as per Glassdoor.
MS in Data Science Salary in USA
An MS in Data Science in the USA equips professionals with the skills to analyze complex data and extract valuable insights. This field is critical for businesses looking to make data-driven decisions. Let's explore some top career opportunities:
SQL Developer
SQL developers specialize in managing and manipulating databases using SQL (Structured Query Language).
Market Demand
An impressive 63% of industries and companies are seeking proficient SQL developers due to the growing need to develop new applications, work on software, and manage databases.
Salary Range
$85,000 and $100,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
Statistician
Statisticians are vital for interpreting data and providing statistical insights to help guide business decisions.
Market Demand
The employment of statisticians and mathematicians is projected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2026. This significant growth is driven by the increasing use of statistical analysis in various industries, including healthcare, finance, and government.
Salary Range
$77,000 and $100,000 per year (as per Glassdoor)
Data Engineer
Data engineers are in high demand because they build and maintain the infrastructure that allows data scientists to work efficiently.
Market Demand
A shortage of data engineers makes it hard to maintain data quality and accessibility. Because of this, data engineers are in high demand, with great pay and career opportunities. Jobs for data engineers are expected to grow by 21% from 2020 to 2028, much faster than the average for all jobs.
Salary Range
$88,000 and $100,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
MS in Business Analytics Salary in USA
An MS in Business Analytics in the USA prepares professionals to analyze business data and provide actionable insights. This field bridges the gap between IT and business management. Take a look at these top career choices:
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative analysts use mathematical models to analyze financial data and assist in investment decisions.
Market Demand
The demand for quantitative analysts is high. This is due to the rapid growth of hedge funds and automated trading systems, the increasing complexity of financial securities, and the need for pricing and risk models for traders, accountants, and sales reps.
Salary Range
$100,000 and $200,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
Business Consultant
Business consultants are sought after for their ability to improve business performance by analyzing data and providing strategic advice.
Market Demand
As per Statista, the management consulting market in the United States was valued at around $329 billion in 2022. The USA hosts some of the most prestigious and successful consulting firms globally, leading to a high demand for business consultants.
Salary Range
$63,000 and $100,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
Operations Research Analyst
As per BLS, operations research analysts are in high demand as businesses look to optimize their operations and reduce costs.
Market Demand
The employment of operations research analysts is projected to grow 23% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 9,800 openings for operations research analysts are expected each year over the decade.
Salary Range
$84,000 and $100,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
MS in Biotechnology Salary in USA
An MS in Biotechnology in the USA provides advanced knowledge in biological sciences and the application of technology to improve healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management. Here are a few of the most promising career opportunities:
Microbiologist
Microbiologists study microorganisms to understand their impact on humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
Market Demand
Employment for microbiologists is expected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032. Roughly 1,700 new job openings will be created for microbiologists each year, reflecting the steady demand in this field.
Salary Range
$53,000 and $89,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
Research Scientist
Research scientists conduct experiments and analyze data to develop new products and technologies in various fields, including healthcare and agriculture.
Market Demand
The global biotechnology market was valued at $1.55 trillion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.96% from 2024 to 2030. This significant market growth drives high demand for research scientists, which is crucial in developing new biotechnological products and innovations.
Salary Range
$85,000 and $100,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
Senior Biochemist
Senior biochemists focus on the chemical processes within living organisms, contributing to advancements in medicine and biotechnology.
Market Demand
The global biochemical market was valued at $65.9 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach around $179.66 billion by 2032. This market expansion drives the demand for biochemists, with job growth expected to increase by 6.7% between 2022 and 2032.
Salary Range
$100,000 and $200,000 per year (according to Glassdoor)
5 Tips for Finding Job After MS in USA
Here are some crucial tips to consider so as to successfully find a job after MS in the United States:
Network Proactively: Attend industry conferences, webinars, and meetups to build relationships with professionals and recruiters in your field. Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn for targeted networking can also open doors to hidden job opportunities.
Showcase Your Skills: Create a strong online presence by building a portfolio or personal website that highlights your projects, research, and key skills. This can set you apart and provide tangible evidence of your expertise.
Leverage University Resources: Use your university’s career services for personalized job search assistance, including mock interviews, job fairs, and connections with alumni working in your desired field.
Engage in Industry-Specific Communities: Join professional organizations and online communities related to your field. Participation in these groups can provide job leads, industry insights, and valuable connections.
Pursue Certifications: Complement your MS with relevant certifications or training programs that are highly valued in your industry. This can demonstrate continued learning and make you a more competitive candidate.
Major Recruiters Offering Jobs After MS in USA
After completing an MS in the USA, several major recruiters and companies are prominent in hiring graduates across various fields. Here are some notable ones:
1.Tech Giants:
Google: Known for hiring MS graduates in roles related to software engineering, data science, and AI.
Microsoft: Offers positions in software development, cloud computing, and data analysis.
Amazon: Recruits for roles in machine learning, cloud services, and operations management.
2. Consulting Firms:
Deloitte: Seeks MS graduates for consulting roles, especially in technology and strategy.
Accenture: Offers positions in digital transformation, technology consulting, and analytics.
McKinsey & Company: Hires MS graduates for management consulting and specialized industry roles.
3. Financial Services:
Goldman Sachs: Recruits for roles in finance, risk management, and quantitative analysis.
J.P. Morgan Chase: Offers positions in investment banking, data analysis, and financial technology.
Morgan Stanley: Seeks graduates for roles in finance, risk management, and quantitative research.
4. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals:
Pfizer: Hires MS graduates for research, data analysis, and project management roles.
Johnson & Johnson: Offers positions in research and development, data science, and operations.
Novartis: Recruits for roles in drug development, clinical research, and data analytics.
5. Engineering & Manufacturing:
General Electric (GE): Seeks MS graduates for roles in engineering, data analysis, and project management.
Tesla: Offers positions in engineering, data science, and energy solutions.
Boeing: Hires graduates for roles in aerospace engineering, data analysis, and project management.
These recruiters are known for valuing the advanced skills and knowledge that MS graduates bring, offering opportunities for growth and development in their respective industries.
Conclusion
In 2024, a Master of Science (MS) degree significantly boosts earning potential and career prospects across various fields. With average starting salaries for MS graduates ranging from $85,000 to $110,000 depending on the industry—such as computer science, engineering, and data science—this advanced degree opens doors to specialized and higher-paying roles.
As demand for skilled professionals continues to rise, particularly in high-growth areas like healthcare and technology, an MS degree enhances not only immediate salary potential but also offers long-term career advancement and flexibility.
The universities in the USA are top-ranked and globally renowned. The competition for MS in these renowned universities is huge. Here are a few eligibility requirements:
1) A bachelor’s degree in the relevant field from a recognized institution or board of study for up to four years is required.
2) 3.5 or higher GPA, equivalent to 87% in bachelors
3) A GRE score of 330 or above
4) IELTS score and TOEFL score, whichever is applicable
5) 2 to 3 letters of recommendation
6) Research Internships
7) Work experience
8) Statement of purpose.
Will prior work experience help with admission?
An MS degree in the United States of America is highly recommended. Universities may look for job experience or internship programs following graduation because it is a postgraduate degree. Work experience, on the other hand, will only be counted if it is relevant to the study and not something else. For example, if a student applies for engineering and has prior marketing expertise, he is at a disadvantage. Work experience should be relevant and for at least six months. Applicants with more than six months of relevant job experience always stand out.
What is the average salary in the USA after MS?
The salary after MS in the USA that you can earn would range anywhere between $85,000 to $110,000(Payscale). However, the average salary after MS in the USA largely depends on the specialization that you pursue.
How many years can you work after MS in the USA?
Based on the restrictions of one’s Visa, international students are allowed to stay back and work in the USA after completion of their MS for a period of 3 years.
What is the monthly salary after MS in the USA?
For recent MS graduates in the US, the average monthly salary typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,000.
How does specialization affect salary after MS in the USA?
Specialization can largely affect an individual's salary after completing an MS in the USA. An MS specialization in a particular field can yield an average salary of $70,000 to $120,000 in the USA (as per Glassdoor)
Are international MS graduates eligible for the same salary ranges as US nationals?
Yes, all MS graduates are eligible for the same salary range as US nationals. This is because universities do not discriminate between international and national students during placement drives. A report from Standford depicted the placement percentage of its students together for both international and national students rather than discriminating between the two.
How does the cost of living in major US cities impact MS graduate salaries?
Major US cities have a very high cost of living. As an MS graduate, your salary scale also increases when working in a major US city. Companies in cities like New York will offer much higher salaries to MS graduates than they would to MS graduates working in any other small city.
Who earns more MBA or MS in the USA?
According to a study by the U.S. BLS, the entry-level salary for an MBA in Marketing is between $77,020 and $128,750, whereas for an MS in management, it is between $50,000 and $86,000. Thus, an MBA graduate has the potential to earn more in the starting phase of their career. However, these stats can change later in the career.
What is the salary of an MS doctor in the USA?
The average salary of a doctor in the USA is $2,64,553 (as per Glassdoor).
Is it easy to find a job after earning an MS in the USA?
Yes, doing MS in the United States opens immense job opportunities. Graduates can apply to various sectors and earn a wholesome salary in the United States.
What is the minimum per month salary for an MS graduate in the USA?
According to Glassdoor, MS graduates from the US can earn around $87,507 annually after getting a degree. However, it also depends on their chosen specialization courses and the potential they hold.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
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