– The Average Salary by Degree Level –
When considering how and where to pursue your educational goals, deciding on the degree, trade, or specialization that best meets your needs should be at the top of your list.
Today, SchoolMatchPro.com will break down different degrees by level and explore their respective average salaries to help you decide if a traditional degree is right for you…
Or if obtaining a career-based education, like those offered in trade schools, is a better fit for you.
Average salary of a high school diploma holder
Today, many employers are looking for qualified applicants to work in their companies. A high school diploma is essential, as it is very often a minimum baseline requirement.
The average annual salary of a high school graduate based on labor statistics varies between $32,000 and $42,000[1] — but new opportunities may open up if you have the transferrable skills that employers are looking for.
Average salary of someone with Some college but no degree
A college degree from a reputable college or technical school marks an individual’s commitment and sacrifice. Yet, what happens to those unable to complete their academic journey?
While pay may not be as high as full degree earners, or trade school graduates, professionals with some college experience generally have better luck landing a job offer than high school diploma holders. Given the plethora of challenges life can bring, having to take a break in one’s college career is only too often unavoidable.
Individuals in this camp typically earn between $38,000 and $51,000 a year, with the average salary for non-graduates landing at around $46,755.[2]
If you’re looking to get back to school to earn your degree, visit SchoolMatchPro.com and we’ll connect you with a school or program that fits your needs.
Average salary of an associate degree holder
An associate degrees is a two-year degree that many community colleges and technical or vocational schools offer. They are an excellent way to start one’s educational journey, as they provide a foundation of knowledge in relevant fields and often include hands-on learning opportunities.
Sometimes, online courses are also available, allowing students to take classes remotely. Depending on their field and other factors, professionals with an associate’s degree may expect to make a median salary of $48,000 to $51,000 annually.[3]
Most individuals with this degree type often return to school for more advanced qualifications, such as a bachelor’s degree.
For example, an associate degree Trade School graduate may pursue a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management or a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
Average salary of a bachelor’s degree holder
A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate academic or professional degree awarded after four years at college. Generally, these degrees focus on the sciences, humanities, and liberal arts — though specialized degrees also exist.
If you have earned a bachelor’s degree, you can anticipate making an average of $67,000to $80,000 yearly — although your income may depend on the subject of your degree and your level of job experience.[4]
Average salary of a master’s degree holder
Americans who have a master’s degree have an advantage when it comes to the job market. With the increased difficulty in obtaining a master’s degree, individuals who have earned one can generally expect to make more than those with a bachelor’s degree or lower degree.
The average salary of someone with a master’s degree is around $80,000 to $98,000 annually, making it one of the most lucrative degrees an individual can obtain.[5]
Master’s degree holders often pursue careers such as research, management, education, or marketing — though with their qualifications and skills, they can branch out into nearly any field.
Average salary of a doctoral degree holder
Doctoral (or Ph.D.) degrees are the highest academic distinction one can obtain. This degree is the pinnacle of any academic career and usually requires years of dedication, research, and hard work.
Individuals with doctorates often have little difficulty finding employment as they are highly sought after in many academic and professional fields. On average, those with doctoral degrees earn around $98,000 to $141,000 a year.[6]
Now, as we said earlier, going to trade school then becoming a construction manager can be lucrative. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says construction managers make an average salary of $108,210![7]
So, perhaps Trade school is the right route for you.
Either way, you can start earning your degree today.
SchoolMatchPro.com can help you find a good school that offers you what you’re looking for. From online associate degrees to trade school programs, we’ve got connections to the schools you need to succeed!
Simply go to SchoolMatchPro.com and have a look!
[1] https://www.northeastern.edu/bachelors-completion/news/average-salary-by-education-level/
[2] https://www.northeastern.edu/bachelors-completion/news/average-salary-by-education-level/
[3] https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/personal-finance/articles/heres-the-average-americans-income-by-education-level/
[4] https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/personal-finance/articles/heres-the-average-americans-income-by-education-level/
[5] https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/personal-finance/articles/heres-the-average-americans-income-by-education-level/
[6] https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/personal-finance/articles/heres-the-average-americans-income-by-education-level/