2024's highest-paying jobs and how to acquire them

While there are other factors to take into account while trying to enhance your career prospects, knowing which occupations pay the highest salaries jobs and how to obtain them can help you plan your professional path. Medical vocations rank well, as one might anticipate, but they are by no means the only industry with well-paying positions.

Jobs

Though they come from a range of sectors and industries, the highest paying jobs we’ve chosen all require a strong sense of passion for their work. Ultimately, having a passion in the subject is the best approach to land well-paying work.

With each, we’ve offered links to a selection of FutureLearn online courses to help you discover where your passions lie.

Software Developer

What is a software developer?

A software engineer or developer uses mathematical and scientific ideas to build the kinds of incredible technologies that we utilize on a daily basis. Your days as a software developer will be devoted to creating programs, debugging complex issues, and writing code. You might find work in a variety of sectors, including IT, banking, construction, and many more.

How do you become a software developer?

With a predicted 25.6% increase in employment between 2018 and 2028, software developers are in high demand and pay among the highest of all the professions on this list. Many software engineers start their careers with a degree in information technology, computer science, or computing, or they obtain practical experience through internships.

How much do software developers make?

$105,000 / £85,000 / AUD 150,000

Examine courses in software development.

Become proficient in programming or learn to code, and start down the path to becoming a software developer.

Dentist

What is a dentist?

A dentist is in charge of their patients’ oral health, which includes everything from routine checkups to extensive surgery. Dentists have a wide range of specialization options, from surgery to teeth straightening.A dentist is a medical practitioner with expertise in the identification, management, and prevention of disorders pertaining to the oral cavity. These highly skilled professionals check patients for dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and misalignments with the goal of maintaining oral health and cleanliness. Dentists evaluate the health of teeth and gums using a variety of diagnostic techniques, such as X-rays and visual inspections. In addition to doing regular cleanings and filling cavities, they might also offer procedures like root canals and tooth extractions. Furthermore, dentists are essential in teaching patients about good oral hygiene habits and providing advice on how to keep a healthy smile. Depending on their schooling, some dentists may decide to specialize in pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, or orthodontics.

How do you become a dentist?

Although becoming a dentist is a lengthy procedure, the benefits are clear. The first step is often a five-year undergraduate dentistry degree, which is followed by postgraduate training (dental school in the US) and the acquisition of necessary credentials from dental regulatory organizations.

Usually, becoming a dentist requires a demanding academic and career path. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree is the first step, typically in a science-related discipline (though some dental schools accept other majors). Aspiring dentists must enroll in a dental school recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) following their completion of undergraduate study. After completing their four years of study, students at dental school are awarded a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree.

Students in dentistry school follow a thorough program that combines classroom learning, laboratory work, and clinical rotations. They get knowledge of radiography, anatomy, oral pathology, and other dental operations. Clinical rotations give students practical experience treating patients while being supervised by knowledgeable academic members.

How much do dentists make?

$159,000 / £130,000 / AUD 240,000

Learn about dentistry

With the help of this University of Sheffield online course, learn about dentistry and how to become a dentist.

Psychiatrist

What is a psychiatrist?

A physician who specializes in treating mental health issues is known as a psychiatrist. They differ from other mental health providers, such psychologists, in that they are licensed medical practitioners with the authority to prescribe drugs. Typically, psychiatrists focus on one specialty, such as intellectual impairments, general adult, or child and adolescent. A psychiatrist is a health care provider with a focus on mental health, namely in the areas of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of emotional and mental problems. A psychiatrist is a medical professional who has completed a residency in psychiatry and obtained a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) degree. They also go through substantial study and clinical training. When diagnosing and treating patients, psychiatrists take a multidisciplinary approach to mental health, taking into account biological, psychological, and social aspects. They offer psychotherapy, write prescriptions for drugs, and perform diagnostic evaluations in order to treat a variety of mental health issues. Psychiatrists are vital in advancing research, promoting mental health awareness, and treating patients with addictions. They might specialize in areas such as child, geriatric, or addiction psychiatry.

How do you become a psychiatrist?

A substantial amount of training is necessary to become a fully qualified psychiatrist. A medical undergraduate degree is required, though requirements vary by nation after that. After two years of medical foundation study, you would then complete six years of psychiatry-specific training in the UK, for instance. In the United States, four years of medical school are required after completing an undergraduate degree.

In order to obtain practical experience in diagnosing and treating mental health issues, psychiatrists-in-training work in a variety of settings throughout their residency, including hospitals and outpatient clinics. For additional training, they could decide to undertake fellowships in specialty fields including forensic psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, or child psychiatry.

Individuals must pass the licensure exam in order to get a state medical license after completing the necessary training. In order to show their proficiency in the area, many psychiatrists additionally work toward board certification through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), which requires completing extra tests. Psychiatrists learn continuously during their careers to stay abreast of the most recent findings, therapies, and therapeutic approaches. This continuous dedication guarantees their ability to offer thorough and efficient care to people with a range of psychiatric

How much do psychiatrists make?

$220,000 / £180,000 / AUD 330,000

Beyond Diagnosis: Is Psychiatric Diagnosis Helpful?

An overview of the development, applications, and history of mental diagnosis.

courses in medicine and healthcare

Getting certified as a doctor is the first step towards becoming a psychiatrist. Find a variety of online courses to help you start or progress in your medical career.

Pharmacist

What is a pharmacist?

Professionals with medical training, pharmacists specialize in dispensing medications to patients and other healthcare providers. They are qualified to dispense medication and have extensive knowledge of drugs and how they affect the body. They can also offer advice on appropriate prescriptions and treatments.

In addition to giving patients advice on how to take prescription drugs correctly and about possible interactions and side effects, pharmacists are in charge of filling prescriptions. Along with working together with doctors, they improve treatment programs, keep an eye out for medication-related problems in patients, and offer adjustments when needed. Pharmacists support healthcare teams not only in their clinical work but also in areas like pharmaceutical therapy management, drug information, and public health promotion.

In order to ensure that patients receive the best possible care, pharmacists are also essential in ensuring medication safety and adherence. They assist patients in understanding and adhering to prescribed regimens. In certain instances, pharmacists may focus on certain patient groups or healthcare environments by specializing in areas like mental pharmacy, oncology pharmacy, or geriatric pharmacy. In general, pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare system by making.

How do you become a pharmacist?

To work as a pharmacist in the UK, you must have a master’s degree in pharmacy (MPharm), which typically takes four years to complete. It follows a similar path in the US, where a four-year PharmD degree is necessary.In Australia, you can choose between a two-year post-graduate Masters of Pharmacy program and a four-year Bachelor of Pharmacy program.

One of the most important medical professionals in the administration and distribution of pharmaceuticals is the pharmacist. These highly skilled workers are employed by hospitals, community pharmacies, and other healthcare organizations, among other places. A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree is usually awarded to pharmacists after a protracted educational program that involves demanding coursework in pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and clinical pharmacy practice. Their areas of competence include knowing the characteristics and interactions of medications, making sure they are taken safely and effectively, and giving patients and other healthcare professionals useful information.

How much do pharmacists make?

$125,000 / £100,000 / AUD 190,000

courses in pharmacy

With the help of our assortment of online pharmacy courses, learn about the pharmacy industry and how to pursue a career in pharmacy.

Geologist

What is a geologist?

Geologists research the elements and processes that make up the earth. Their aim is to gain a deeper comprehension of the functioning of our planet, and they apply the knowledge they acquire to a range of fields and businesses. Geologists work in the mining and quarrying, engineering, oil and gas, government, and academic sectors. Generally, they can anticipate a combination of desk research, laboratory time, and field activity.

How do you become a geologist?

An undergraduate degree in geology or a closely related discipline is normally required to work as a geologist (or geoscientist). Postgraduate work in a particular area of geology, such as environmental geoscience, pollution management, or seismology, frequently comes next.

How much do geologists make?

$92,000 / £75,000 / AUD 140,000

Consider taking a geology introductory course.

Begin your journey into the field of geology. Learn how to use materials sustainably and where they originate from for commonplace items.

Lawyer

What is a lawyer?

A person who is authorized to practice law and provide legal advice is called a lawyer, sometimes known as an attorney or counsel. There are two categories of lawyers: solicitors and barristers. The profession’s roots can be found in ancient Greece, when accomplished speakers would appear in court to defend their friends and customers.

These days, a modern function involves handling complex litigation, obtaining evidence, and prosecuting or defending clients. The main responsibility of an attorney is to defend the rights of their clients while upholding the law.

How do you become a lawyer?

The traditional route to becoming a lawyer involves obtaining an undergraduate degree (LLB qualified in the UK/Australia), a law conversion course if your degree was unrelated to law, law school (US), or an apprenticeship in a firm that specializes in your chosen field, such as barristers or solicitors.
.

How much do lawyers make?

$120,000 / £100,000 / AUD 180,000

Examine legal education options.

Law is a broad field that encompasses many different specialties. With the help of our online law courses from prestigious universities around the globe, you may better comprehend legal areas and procedures.

Surgeon

What is a surgeon?

Surgeons operate on patients and do other medical treatments. Although performing specialized operations is a surgeon’s primary responsibility, they also perform ward rounds and various other administrative tasks. Certain surgeons opt to specialize in a particular field, like heart or brain surgery.

How to become a surgeon?

Similar to psychiatrists, before beginning their surgical training, surgeons must first obtain medical qualification. After that, you typically complete several years of surgical training in a hospital. If you want to specialize in a particular field, you can then pursue additional training.

How much do surgeons make?

$208,000 / £170,000 / AUD 315,000

Look through the medical education programs.

A medical degree is required as a prerequisite for becoming a surgeon. Start your path to this by enrolling in an online medical and healthcare course.

Finance Manager

What is a finance manager?

Finance is one of the top paying professions, as one might anticipate. It is the responsibility of a finance manager to comprehend the financial well-being of an organization. Alternatively referred to as a finance manager or lead, they oversee and formulate investment plans, offer financial counsel, and assist in defining the organization’s long-term financial objectives.

How do you become a finance manager?

A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a business-related field is normally required to work as a finance manager. Additional training and accreditation in specialized fields, like accounting, typically come next. For instance, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) are two popular certification bodies in the UK.