When I studied the cost to benefit of the various degrees I was very surprised at some of my findings. I used the average pay rates from US Census Data. So keep in mind that my findings are purely from a financial basis.

Surprisingly, associates degrees (2 year degrees) had one of the biggest financial benefits based on the cost. On average the pay increases where substantial and the cost were relatively low.

Bachelor’s degrees at in-state public universities ranked well, especially in fields that offer a specific skill like:

• Accounting
• Nursing
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Science

Bachelors degrees at private universities where mixed based on the specific major. This is taking into account the full price of the university. Check out our website to find some ways to avoid paying sticker price! The following are the bachelor’s degrees from a private school that ranked as some of the worst from a cost to benefit standpoint:

• Social Work
• Liberal Arts
• English

The absolute worst from a cost to benefit perspective where master’s degrees in English and Social Work. These degrees are very expensive but made as little as $50.00 a year difference in pay. There are other reasons for going back to get these degrees. Maybe it is your passion or a direct benefit for a specific profession. The data reflects that financially these degrees have a negative payback for the cost.