- The UK’s fast-paced job market, with many multinational companies having their headquarters here, makes it a great choice for graduates looking to get started.
- A master’s degree from a UK university will boost your employability and help you stand out in the graduate job market.
- Prodigy Finance works with many of the top universities in the UK, including the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford and Imperial College London. So students can get financing for their desired MS programmes at these top-ranked schools.
UK’s strong economy and thriving industries have created a high demand for skilled professionals, making it an attractive destination for postgraduate studies. As home to some of the best universities in the world, the UK offers world-class education and a pathway to lucrative career opportunities. Master of Science (MS, more commonly known as MSc in the UK) degrees, in particular, have gained immense popularity in the UK, catering to a wide range of disciplines and sectors. Pursuing an MS in the UK is a valuable investment in your future.
As a prospective student, while the knowledge and skills gained from your degree are crucial, understanding potential salary expectations after graduation is equally important, as it will help you make an informed decision about your future career path.
Highest Paying MS Specialisations in the UK and Their Salaries
The UK job market has become increasingly focused on specialised and technical skills, driving higher demand for graduates across fields like engineering, computer science, data science, and finance. Employers are seeking candidates with advanced, in-depth knowledge and practical skills. Major tech and innovation hubs have emerged in cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh, creating more high-paying job opportunities for MS graduates.
You can expect to start at a competitive salary in the range of £36,000 per year in a relevant field of study. Here are some of the highest-paying and most in-demand fields of study for graduates in the UK, along with their average salaries:
| Field of Study | Approximate Annual Base Salary | Best UK Universities to Study |
|---|---|---|
| Field of Study Computer Science & Information Technology | Approximate Annual Base Salary £49,000 | Best UK Universities to Study |
| Field of Study Management | Approximate Annual Base Salary £38,000 | Best UK Universities to Study |
| Field of Study Engineering | Approximate Annual Base Salary £44,000 | Best UK Universities to Study |
| Field of Study Law | Approximate Annual Base Salary £42,000 | Best UK Universities to Study |
| Field of Study | Approximate Annual Base Salary £27,000 | Best UK Universities to Study |
In addition to this, each of these sectors has a wide variety of job roles that provide very good salaries for MS graduates. Whether you choose to complete your MSc in Data Science or wish to pursue higher studies in taxation, the UK provides a great scope for growth for students who complete their master’s programme.
The UK job market has many high-paying career options for MS degree holders. Here are some of the top job positions and their average salaries:
| Job Role | Average Base Salary Per Year |
|---|---|
| Job Role Healthcare Consultant | Average Base Salary Per Year £78,359 |
| Job Role Lead Software Engineer | Average Base Salary Per Year £62,548 |
| Job Role Commercial Finance Manager | Average Base Salary Per Year £59,246 |
| Job Role Business Process/Management Consultant | Average Base Salary Per Year £50,001 |
| Job Role IT Consultant | Average Base Salary Per Year £47,325 |
| Job Role IT Manager | Average Base Salary Per Year £43,930 |
| Job Role Software Engineer | Average Base Salary Per Year £40,229 |
Factors Influencing Salary After MS in the UK
Average starting salaries for graduates in the UK have risen steadily over the past years. Fields like finance, consulting, and software engineering now offer MS degree holders above the annual salary of £36,000, significantly higher than the national average.
Completing an MS in the UK can significantly boost your earnings. However, the actual salary you will get after graduation depends on a combination of factors beyond your degree.
Here's a breakdown of all the influences:
Top UK Universities and Their Impact on Salaries
A master’s programme itself can strongly improve your earning potential. However, attending a top university in the UK may offer some extra advantages in terms of salary.
Prestigious names like the University of Oxford, University of Glasgow, University of Nottingham, Imperial College London, and Lancaster University hold a reputation for academic excellence. The reputation and network of these colleges open pathways for better career opportunities and networking with individuals from high-paying organisations.
The recruiters often recognise the high standards of these top universities, which may result in higher starting salaries for graduates.
Job Location and Its Influence on Salaries
The job location is very important when you begin looking to start a career after completing your MS. There are certain factors, like the cost of living and industry opportunities, that significantly affect your starting salary.
In urban areas like London, Manchester, or Cambridge, the salaries for graduates are higher to factor in the higher cost of living. Employers need to offer competitive salaries in order to retain the talent and compensate for their living expenses in the city.
Moreover, some locations are popular because of the industry concentration. For example, business startups are more common in cities like Brighton or London. These hubs naturally offer higher salaries due to a higher demand for skilled professionals in specific fields.
Smaller cities or regional areas might offer a lower salary because of the lower cost of living and other expenses.
Work Experience and Designation
Work experience and job designation are essential elements when looking for higher salaries in the UK. Graduates with relevant work experience are generally seen as more valuable by employers. This is because they have a proven track record of applying their knowledge and skills in a professional setting.
For example, the salary for a data scientist in the UK can vary significantly depending on their level of experience, with entry-level professionals earning less than senior experts.
Salaries also depend upon the industry you choose to enter. Some sectors, like finance or technology, generally offer higher salaries than others.
Top Companies Recruiting MS Graduates in the UK
The UK is a hub for many top companies that hire people with advanced degrees. The “Big Four” accounting firms like PwC, KPMG, Ernst & Young, and Deloitte hire many MS graduates, especially in finance, data analytics and management consulting.
You can also find jobs with investment banks such as JP Morgan Chase and Goldman Sachs. Investment banks recruit MS graduates in quantitative fields like mathematics, statistics, and computer science, as well as in finance and business administration. High-tech companies such as Google, Amazon, Meta, and Apple are major employees of MS graduate students.
Outside of consulting, finance, and tech sectors, MS graduates in the UK can also find opportunities with top companies across industries like engineering and manufacturing, healthcare and multinational conglomerates. There are plenty of opportunities out there for these graduates in the UK that offer good salaries.
How to Prepare Yourself for a High-Paying Job in the UK After MS
With the growing popularity of master’s programmes in the UK, competition for job placements has increased. Employers now expect advanced skills, relevant work experience and strong academic credentials.
If you are an international student wanting to pursue an MS degree in the UK, here are a few steps you can take to prepare yourself for a high-paying job after graduation.
Start by choosing the right course and institution. Choose a programme with better career prospects and an institution with a high reputation and accreditation. You can also gain experience through internships and research projects during your studies.
For international students looking to study MS in the UK, the main obstacle is often not a lack of potential but finding the financial resources to make this dream a reality. Prodigy Finance’s borderless education model aims to remove this hurdle by offering student loans to cover tuition fees at many top UK institutions without collateral or a co-signer.
FAQs
How can international students maximise their earning potential after their masters in the UK?
International students can make the most of their earning potential by getting relevant work experience. It can be gained through internships, networking with industry professionals and staying updated with industry trends.
Which visa options are available for international students to study MS in the UK?
The primary visa option for international MS students is the student visa (previously Tier 4 student visa). The visa allows you to study in the UK for the duration of your programme and an additional 4 months after completion for job searching or further study.
Does UK visa status affect the salary and employment opportunities for international students?
Yes, visa status can affect salary and employment opportunities. Having a valid work visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa, can increase your chances of securing high-paying jobs and long-term employment in the UK.
Is work experience in my home country beneficial for securing a high-paying job in the UK after an MSc?
Gaining relevant skills and experience in your home country can enhance your CV and demonstrate your capabilities to potential UK employers. Many skills are transferable across countries and industries. This can be particularly valuable if you are applying for roles in sectors where your home country has a strong presence.
Prodigy Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Prodigy Finance loans are offered to eligible borrowers and these loans are governed by English law.
