Becoming a dad is one of the most incredible experiences in life, but let’s be honest—it also comes with a ton of new responsibilities. It’s not just about changing diapers or helping with homework; it’s also about providing for your family and setting a strong example. For many of us, “providing” often means finding a job that pays well and offers stability,which isn’t always easy to come by.
When I became a dad, I started re-evaluating my career path. I realized that while I enjoyed my job, it wasn’t setting me up for long-term growth or the income I needed to give my kids the life I envisioned for them. That’s when I started researching degrees that could help me pivot into a high-paying career. And let me tell you, it opened my eyes to a world of opportunities I hadn’t even considered before.
If you’re in a similar boat—thinking about going back to school or even starting a degree for the first time—here are five degrees that can help you land high-paying jobs. I’ll break them down for you, why they’re valuable, and how they could fit into the life of a busy dad.
1. Computer Science
If you’ve ever considered diving into tech, a degree in computer science might be your golden ticket. The tech industry is booming, with software developers, data scientists, and IT specialists consistently ranking among the highest-paid professionals.
- Why It’s Worth It: Tech jobs are everywhere. From startups to big corporations, there’s no shortage of demand for people who can write code, manage systems, or create applications. Plus, many tech positions offer the flexibility to work remotely, which is a huge perk for dads trying to juggle work and family.
- Real Dad Perspective: I’ve seen friends go from careers in unrelated fields to earning six-figure salaries after a few years in tech. While the degree can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. And if you’re worried about the time commitment, many universities now offer part-time or online programs.
2. Nursing or Healthcare Administration
If you’re the kind of person who loves helping others, healthcare could be a fulfilling and lucrative path. Whether you’re interested in becoming a nurse, a healthcare administrator, or even a specialized technician, there’s no doubt this field is in demand.
- Why It’s Worth It: Healthcare jobs are recession-proof. People will always need medical care, and the aging population means there’s an increasing need for healthcare professionals. A degree in nursing or healthcare administration can open doors to roles that pay well and provide job security.
- Real Dad Perspective: A buddy of mine made the switch to nursing in his 30s. He now works three 12-hour shifts a week, which gives him four days off to spend with his kids. It’s tough work, but the schedule flexibility and the pay make it worth it.
3. Business Administration
This degree is a classic for a reason. Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder, start your own business, or transition into a leadership role, a business administration degree can be incredibly versatile.
- Why It’s Worth It: A strong foundation in business can take you almost anywhere. You’ll learn essential skills like management, marketing, and finance that apply across industries. Many high-paying jobs in management positions require this kind of degree.
- Real Dad Perspective: For dads who dream of owning their own business, this degree can give you the tools to succeed. I’ve also seen it help dads move into higher-paying roles within their current companies, sometimes even before they’ve finished the degree.
4. Engineering
Engineering is another field that consistently pays well, with a ton of options depending on your interests. Whether it’s mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, this degree can set you up for a long and lucrative career.
- Why It’s Worth It: Engineers are problem-solvers, and their skills are in high demand across industries. Whether you’re designing bridges or building software systems, an engineering degree can lead to high salaries and job stability.
- Real Dad Perspective: One of my colleagues transitioned into civil engineering after years in construction. It was a natural fit for him, and he’s now making more money while working fewer hours. It’s a demanding degree, but the payoff can be huge.
5. Education (with a Focus on Specialization)
If you have a passion for teaching and want a career that makes a difference, a degree in education could be a great choice—especially if you specialize in areas like STEM or special education.
- Why It’s Worth It: Teachers play a vital role in shaping the future, and specialized educators are in high demand. While teaching salaries vary by location, advanced degrees or certifications can significantly increase earning potential, especially for high-need subjects.
- Real Dad Perspective: I know a dad who became a high school math teacher after working in retail for years. He loves the consistent schedule, summers off with his kids, and the sense of purpose his job gives him. It’s not the highest-paying field, but it’s incredibly rewarding and stable.
Choosing the Right Degree as a Dad
When I was considering going back to school, I had to take a hard look at my priorities. As a dad, I couldn’t just pick a degree based on earning potential alone. I needed to think about how I’d balance school, work, and family life.
Here are a few tips that helped me decide:
- Look for Flexibility: Online and evening programs are lifesavers for busy dads.
- Consider Your Interests: You’re more likely to succeed in a degree program if you’re genuinely interested in the subject.
- Think Long-Term: Some degrees take longer to pay off than others. Make sure the investment aligns with your goals.
Wrapping It Up
Going back to school as a dad isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely doable—and it can be life-changing. Whether you’re drawn to tech, healthcare, business, engineering, or education, there’s a degree out there that can help you build a better future for yourself and your family.
For me, the journey has been about more than just finding a high-paying job; it’s been about setting an example for my kids. I want them to see that it’s never too late to invest in yourself and chase your goals. If you’re considering making a similar move, I hope this post gives you a little inspiration to take the leap. You’ve got this!
