Top 10 In-Demand Master’s: What are the Hottest Degrees of 2024 and how to Secure a Place

Updated: ; Published:
  • We put together a list (based on Studyportals data) of ten hottest Master’s, that universities still struggle to meet demand 
  • Of these, eight are tech related, top notch degrees such as AI, Robotics and Big Data. We also noticed a strong interdisciplinary pattern. 
  • Find out how can you increase your chances of securing a place in one of these limited supply fields, and what to expect in the future. 

 

As the academic landscape evolves, the competition for Master's programs, especially in technology and emerging fields, is stronger than ever. Student interest is well ahead of universities ability to meet demand when it comes to top-noch disciplines. Our latest Graduate Opportunities for 2024 report, highlights the top disciplines that are likely to attract a huge number of applicants, but have limited enrolment capacities.  

“Looking at these subjects gives you an idea of the most important emerging (or accelerating) fields. Each of these subjects has some combination of good career options, global workplace shortages, broader relevance across industries and rapid technological advances”, says Cara Skikne, author of the report, and Senior Editor at Studyportals. 

Student searching for In-Demand Master’s

1. Data Science and Big Data 

Dive into the vast universe of Data Science and Big Data! From analysing massive datasets to uncovering hidden patterns, these fields are all about making big data useful and understandable. Germany being the most popular destination for Master’s in Data Science and Big Data. 

  • There is 2.6 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 21.7% compared to 2022 

2. Artificial Intelligence 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the game across various fields, from philosophy to climate change. It's not just for techies—AI is everywhere, with the UK and US providing nearly half of the Master’s programmes in Artificial Intelligence on our portal

  • There is 2.4 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 24.5% compared to 2022 

Professor Kevin Pimbblet, Director of the Centre of Excellence for Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Modelling at the University of Hull, says student applications to AI study programmes are spiking in the UK.

“Artificial intelligence has been around for decades, but it's recently caught the public's imagination thanks to technology like ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion and Midjourney. The numbers of students enrolling exploded across the UK because I think people, not only young people but mid-career people, really wanted to retrain because they see this as the future, which is a correct statement”, says Dr. Pimbblet.

3. Robotics  

From healthcare to manufacturing, Robotics is in high demand. Master’s degrees focused on Robotics reached 264 programmes in 2023, a significant increase compared to the 163 programmes in 2019. As technology advances, so does the need for skilled professionals ready to innovate and apply robotics in real-world scenarios. 

  • There is 2.3 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 15.6% compared to 2022 

Master's students in Robotics

4. Construction Management  

Modern construction industry isn't just about building. It's about managing complex projects, technologies, and teams, and that’s where Construction Management comes in. The 'Big Four' countries (US, Canada, UK, Australia) are the go-to for nearly 70% of students interested to study a Master’s in Construction Management. 

  • There is 2.2 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 38.7% compared to 2022 

5. Human-Computer Interaction 

Human-Computer Interaction is where technology meets everyday life. With a focus on improving digital interactions, careers in this field span healthcare, entertainment, and beyond, reflecting its growing importance. The number of Human-Computer Interaction Master’s programmes on our portal almost doubled since 2019, reaching 401 programmes in 2023.  

  • There is 2.2 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 17.7% compared to 2022 

6. Data Analytics 

Beyond business decisions, Data Analytics plays a crucial role across various domains. It's all about turning data into actionable insights, with Canada the most popular for Master’s in Data Analytics. 

  • There is 2.1 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 27.7% compared to 2022 

7. Neuroscience 

Explore the brain's mysteries! Neuroscience combines biology, psychology, and tech to tackle everything from mental health to learning processes. The US leads in offering Master's in the fascinating field of Neuroscience. 

  •  There is two times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 12.1% compared to 2022 

8. Computer science 

A foundation for the future, Computer Science opens doors in virtually any industry. While interest from Indian students in studying Computer Sciences Master’s has dropped, it has grown in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Germany and Ghana.   

  • There is 1.8 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 11.3% compared to 2022 

9. Business Intelligence 

Data is the new gold, and Business Intelligence is the mining tool. This field focuses on transforming data into strategic business insights, with growing opportunities in the US, Australia, and Italy. 

  • There is 1.8 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 16.7% compared to 2022 

10. Cybersecurity 

In the digital age, the battle against hackers is relentless. Cybersecurity experts are on the front lines, constantly learning to outsmart threats, with Cybersecurity Master’s in France showing a significant 82% rise in student interest. 

  • There is 1.8 times more student interest than available programmes 
  • Student Interest grew by 27.9% compared to 2022 

Dr. Reza Ryan, Cyber Security Group Lead at Curtin University, Australia, believes that pursuing a Master of Cyber Security provides unique benefits to international students and offers a pathway to a highly rewarding and globally in-demand career.

"Graduates are well-positioned to pursue high-demand roles in cybersecurity across various sectors, including government, finance, healthcare, and technology. The future of Cyber Security is set to undergo profound evolution over the next decade, driven by rapid technological advancements such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI), which are leading to the escalation of sophisticated cyber threats", says Dr. Ryan.

Master's student in Cybersecurity

Strategies to Enhance Your Admission Chances in Popular Degrees: 

  • Early Preparation: Starting early is crucial. A solid academic background, with exemplary grades and a high GPA in relevant undergraduate studies, is fundamental. This long-term effort will fortify your application. 
  • Relevant Experience: Engage in internships, research projects, online courses, or volunteering within your field. Practical experience not only strengthens your application but also provides a deeper understanding of your chosen discipline. 
  • Distinctive Skills: Differentiate yourself by acquiring unique skills or experiences. For instance, if your interest lies in AI or sustainable energy, delve into specific aspects that are aligned with current trends and resonate with your passion. 

Tackling Average Grades 

  • Highlight Your Strengths: Compensate for less-than-stellar grades by demonstrating your dedication, involvement in field-related extracurricular activities, or any personal projects that showcase your potential. 
  • Emphasize Soft Skills: Skills like teamwork, leadership, and creative problem-solving are highly valued. Provide evidence of these competencies to show you're a well-rounded candidate. 
  • Improve Your Profile: Seek opportunities to enhance your academic record and broaden your expertise through additional coursework or certifications relevant to your field. 
  • Broaden Your Search: Consider programs with more flexible admission criteria or those in emerging institutions that might offer high-quality education with less competition. 
  • Personal Statement: Use your personal statement to narrate your journey, highlighting your enthusiasm, resilience, and how you've navigated challenges. 
  • Preparation for Assessments: Excelling in any required entrance examinations or interviews can significantly boost your admission prospects. 
  • Networking: Build connections with industry professionals and academics through conferences, seminars, and online forums. Networking can lead to valuable insights, advice, and recommendations. 

Looking Ahead 

  • Increased Competition: As universities work to close the gap between demand and supply, anticipate a rise in competition. 
  • Stay Updated and Flexible: Master's programs will continue to evolve, incorporating the latest industry trends, technologies, and methodologies. Staying informed and adaptable is key. 
  • Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Given the inherently interdisciplinary nature of fields like AI, sustainable energy, and digital technologies, expect programs to offer more cross-disciplinary studies, preparing you for a diverse career path. 
  • Online and Hybrid Learning: To meet high demand, universities are expanding their online and hybrid program offerings, providing greater flexibility and accessibility, regardless of your location. 

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