11 highest paying degrees in the UK 2024

The top 11 degrees with the highest starting salaries in the UK

1. Dentistry

Dentistry is a course dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral health issues. As one of the highest-paying degrees in the UK in 2024, it offers graduates an excellent opportunity to pursue a rewarding and well-compensated career in the healthcare sector.

Average starting salary: Dentistry graduates earn an average starting salary of £39,467.

Job prospects: Graduates can work as general dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, or in dental public health. With over 90% of dentistry graduates finding employment within six months of graduation, this field offers a robust job market.

Top colleges/universities: Excellent UK universities for Dentistry include the University of Sheffield, and Queen's University Belfast.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a degree in dentistry can lead to a high-paying and fulfilling career, allowing graduates to make a significant impact on their patients' overall health and well-being. Additionally, dentistry offers a relatively less competitive job market, enabling graduates to find employment more easily.

Also read: 6 top dentistry universities in the UK for international students

Explore Dentistry Courses in the UK

• Foundation Dentistry Courses in the UK
• Undergraduate Dentistry Courses in the UK
• Postgraduate Dentistry Courses in the UK
• Doctorate Dentistry Courses in the UK

2. Medicine

Medicine is a field dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and illnesses. Pursuing a career in medicine allows graduates to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of individuals and communities worldwide.

Average starting salary: Medicine graduates earn an average starting salary of £34,012.

Job prospects: Graduates can work as junior doctors, general practitioners, or specialists in areas such as cardiology or psychiatry. As medical professionals gain experience and specialise, their earning potential increases significantly.

Top colleges/universities: Top UK universities to study medicine include the University of Brighton, University of Exeter, and University of Glasgow.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a degree in medicine can lead to a rewarding and impactful career, as medical professionals play a vital role in society's overall health and well-being. With the potential for high earnings and opportunities for growth and advancement, medicine is an excellent choice for those with a passion for healthcare and helping others.

Also read: 7 things a medical student wishes she knew before starting medical school

Explore: Medicine Courses in UK

3. Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary Medicine is a field that concentrates on the health and well-being of animals. Graduates in this discipline dedicate their careers to improving the lives of animals, ensuring their proper care, and promoting responsible pet ownership.

Average starting salary: Veterinary Medicine graduates earn an average starting salary of £34,890.

Job prospects: Graduates can work as veterinarians, veterinary specialists, or in research and academia. As professionals gain experience, their earning potential can increase up to £70,000.

Top colleges/universities: Notable UK universities offering Veterinary Medicine courses include the University of Liverpool, University of Nottingham, and University of Central Lancashire.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a degree in Veterinary Medicine is an excellent choice for those passionate about animals and their welfare. Graduates can enjoy a rewarding career, making a positive impact on the lives of animals and their owners while benefiting from promising financial rewards and career growth opportunities.

Explore: Veterinary Medicine Courses in UK

4. Economics

Economics is a field that delves into the study of the production, distribution, and consumption of wealth. Graduates in this discipline can apply their knowledge to a variety of sectors, from finance and banking to public policy and international trade, contributing to the growth and stability of economies around the world.

Average starting salary: Economics graduates earn an average starting salary of £34,135.

Job prospects: Graduates can work in various roles, such as economists, financial analysts, or consultants. After ten years of employment, the average salary is approximately £40,000, with 10% of graduates earning over £100,000.

Top colleges/universities: Prestigious UK universities offering top Economics courses include University of Portsmouth, Coventry University, and Lancaster University.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a degree in Economics provides graduates with a strong foundation in financial and economic analysis, leading to promising career growth and earning potential. As one of the highest-paying degrees in the UK, it is an excellent choice for those interested in understanding and influencing economic policies and practices.

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• Economics Courses in UK
• 10 of the best economic courses in the UK

5. General Engineering

General Engineering is a field that focuses on the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design, develop, and maintain various systems and structures, ensuring a promising future for those pursuing this path.

Average starting salary: Graduates in General Engineering earn an average starting salary of £30,809.

Job prospects: Engineers are in high demand due to the increasing need for innovative technology and infrastructure. The overall average salary for this career is approximately £47,000, with some positions offering as much as £75,000.

Top colleges/universities: Some of the top UK universities offering outstanding General Engineering courses include Staffordshire University, University of Sheffield, and University of Leicester.

Personal or professional advantages: A degree in General Engineering equips graduates with versatile skills and knowledge, enabling them to work in various industries and fields. With competitive starting salaries and strong job prospects, engineering remains one of the highest paying degrees in the UK.

Note: Additional fields of study in engineering and their average starting salaries include Aeronautical & Manufacturing Engineering (£28,000), Chemical Engineering (£30,000), Electrical & Electronic Engineering (£29,000), and Civil Engineering (£27,700).

6. Mathematics

Mathematics is a field that delves into the world of numbers and calculations, offering a wealth of high-paying career opportunities in various sectors such as accounting, finance, investment, data science, and analytics.

Average starting salary: Mathematics graduates can expect an average starting salary of £28,498.

Job prospects: With a degree in Mathematics, professionals can work in diverse roles, including financial analysts, data scientists, actuaries, and statisticians, among others.

Top colleges/universities: Notable UK universities for studying Mathematics include University of Bath, Coventry University, and Loughborough University.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a degree in Mathematics provides a strong foundation for problem-solving and analytical skills, which can be applied to a wide range of industries. Graduates enjoy versatile career paths, financial rewards, and opportunities to contribute to various sectors' growth and development.

Explore: Mathematics Courses in UK

7. Physics & Astronomy

Physics & Astronomy is a field that delves into understanding the fundamental principles of the universe, offering rewarding and intellectually stimulating career paths for those who pursue it.

Average starting salary: Graduates in Physics & Astronomy earn an average starting salary of £28,125.

Job prospects: In the first ten years on the job, physicists' and astrophysicists' salaries typically increase to £35,000 and £45,000, with further increases after 20 years of experience. Those pursuing an academic path, such as post-doctoral research, can earn between £28,000 and £39,000, while senior researchers and university lecturers can earn up to £60,000 per year.

Top colleges/universities: Prestigious UK universities offering renowned Physics & Astronomy programs including University of Exeter, University of Bath, and University of Glasgow.

Personal or professional advantages: A degree in Physics & Astronomy opens up a variety of high-paying career paths, allowing graduates to explore diverse opportunities while deepening their understanding of the universe. To learn more about the potential paths available, explore the highest paying jobs in this field.

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• Physics Courses in UK
• 7 highest paying jobs for Physics graduates

8. Computer Science

Computer Science is an indispensable field in today's technology-driven world, focusing on the study of computers, software development, and computational systems.

Average starting salary: Graduates in Computer Science earn an average starting salary of £27,500.

Job prospects: As the demand for computer scientists continues to grow, opportunities in areas like software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity are increasingly available, ensuring strong job prospects and competitive salaries.

Top colleges/universities: Leading UK universities offering renowned Computer Science programs include University of Greenwich, and University of Exeter.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a degree in Computer Science equips graduates with the skills to manage, innovate, and improve our computer-driven world. With high demand for professionals in this field, computer scientists can expect rewarding careers and attractive salary prospects.

Explore Computer Science Courses in UK

9. Business and Administration

Business and Administration is a versatile field that prepares graduates for managerial roles and equips them with essential skills for various industries, making it an attractive option for those seeking high-paying careers.

Average starting salary: Graduates in Business and Administration earn an average starting salary of £26,496.

Job prospects: With a growing demand for business professionals across various sectors, graduates can expect diverse job opportunities and a competitive job market.

Top colleges/universities: Prestigious UK universities offering top Business and Administration programs include London School of Business and Finance, University of Bedfordshire, and University of Essex. For those interested in MSc Business Analytics, explore our article on top UK universities offering this program.

Personal or professional advantages: A degree in Business and Administration provides graduates with a strong foundation for success in their chosen field, ensuring a high-paying job and opportunities for growth in any industry.

You might also like:

• Business and Administration Courses in UK
• Top universities in the UK for Masters in Business Analytics

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10. Architecture

Architecture is a field with a timeless demand, focusing on designing and planning buildings and structures that shape our environment, offering a promising career and high-paying job opportunities.

Average starting salary: Graduates in Architecture can expect an average starting salary of £25,500.

Job prospects: As a specialised architect, professionals can work in various roles, including site supervision, urban planning, and designing iconic buildings.

Top colleges/universities: Top UK universities for studying Architecture include Birmingham City University, Falmouth University, and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Personal or professional advantages: Pursuing a career in Architecture offers graduates the opportunity to create lasting impacts on the built environment, work on diverse projects, and enjoy financial rewards while contributing to the aesthetic and functional aspects of society.

11. Politics

Politics is a field that focuses on the study of government systems, public policies, and political behaviour, with professionals working in various roles, from political assistants to public affairs consultants.

Average starting salary: Politics graduates can expect an average starting salary of £24,945.

Job prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as politicians, political analysts, campaign managers, lobbyists, and public affairs consultants in government, non-profit organisations, or private sectors.

Top colleges/universities: Notable UK universities for studying Politics include University of Liverpool, University of Bath, and Aston University.

Personal or professional advantages: A degree in Politics provides numerous benefits, including developing strategic thinking, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of political systems and public policies. Graduates can make a meaningful impact on society by influencing policies and advocating for change, while also enjoying financially rewarding careers with opportunities for growth and specialisation.

Also Read: Most in demand jobs in UK

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree pays the most in the UK?

Highest paying degrees in UK involves Dentistry, Medicine and Veterinary degrees.

Which is the most paid degree in the world?

Petroleum Engineering is the highest paid degree in the world.

What is the average starting salary of an Engineer?

Graduates in General Engineering earn an average starting salary of £30,809. It varies on which field you're in.

What are some top universities in UK for dentistry?

Top universities in UK for dentistry

• University of Plymouth
• Queen’s University Belfast
• University of Dundee
• University of Glasgow
• University of Bristol

Is Economics a good career?

There is strong demand for highly numerate graduates throughout the global labor market, and the widely transferable analytical and problem-solving skills developed by economics students means that careers in economics are extremely wide ranging and diverse.

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