10 highest paying postgraduate certificates

Want to boost your earning potential by developing specialist skills? Earning a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) is a surefire way to increase your salary without having to commit to the full time and cost commitment of a master’s degree.

In this article, we’ll explain exactly what a postgraduate certificate is before discussing the top 10 best PGCerts you can take to secure a highly paid career. We’ll also go into detail about the kinds of jobs each type of postgraduate certificate could lead to, and the average salaries you can expect for each career pathway.

What is a postgraduate certificate?

The clue’s in the name here, but you need to already be a graduate in order to take a PGCert. That’s because a PGCert is at the same academic level as a master’s degree – the main difference is that it takes less time to complete, and therefore also costs less.

In total, PGCerts are only worth 60 credits, so they usually only take one term to complete, which is around 15 weeks. This makes it the perfect postgraduate qualification to complete quickly, allowing students to specialise and progress their careers in a short space of time.

Another difference between a master’s degree and a PGCert is that you don’t need to write a dissertation for the latter. Essentially, you’re completing one third of a master’s degree, and this also means that you can continue your studies at a later date, if you desire to.

You may end up deciding you want to upgrade your qualification to a PGDip, which would equate to two thirds of a master’s degree. Or, you might even decide to go for a full master’s. Even if you stop at the PGCert though, you’ll open doors to many more career and promotion opportunities, which we’ll get into in the next section.

What are the top 10 highest paying postgraduate certificates? 

So, which PGCert courses should you consider if you’re aiming for the big bucks? In reality, what you go for will really depend on your current expertise, passions and career goals. For example, it’s unlikely that a PGCert in cyber security is going to be right for you if your bachelor’s degree and professional experience lie in education. 

However, it’s good to know what your options are, and in some cases, a PGCert can be an excellent stepping stone into a new career, as long as you meet the requirements to get in. So, without further ado, let’s get into the top 10 highest paying postgraduate certificates.

1. PGCert in Finance

A PGCert in Finance is perfect for those who want to climb the ladder in the world of money management and investments. This program will cover everything from understanding financial markets and analysing investments to mastering corporate finance and risk management. 

You’ll learn how to read financial statements, make smart investment decisions, and navigate the complex world of financial regulations. Whether you’re already working in finance and want to get into more senior roles, or switching from a related field, a PGCert is a great way to boost your skills and grab the attention of reputable employers.

Career options

• Chief Financial Officer
• Investment banker
• Accountant
• Private equity associate
• Stockbroker

Average salaries

Investment banker: £53,873 p/a

Private equity associate: £63,029 p/a

2. PGCert in Data Science

If you’re fascinated by numbers and enjoy solving complex problems, a PGCert in Data Science is your chance to turn that passion into a rewarding career. Even if you already work with data, this is a surefire way to enter more senior positions and increase your salary.

You’ll study key areas like data analysis, machine learning, and big data technologies, and dive into programming languages like Python and R. It’s all about turning raw data into actionable insights that businesses can use to make informed decisions.

Data science is a hot field right now, with salaries reflecting its importance — so this is the perfect time to level up your specialist skills and enter this cutting-edge industry.

Career options

• Data scientist
• Data analyst
• Business analyst
• Statistician
• Machine learning engineer

Average salaries

Data scientist: £53,360 p/a

Statistician: £40,627 p/a

3. PGCert in Cyber Security

A PGCert in Cyber Security will go into depth about how to safeguard the digital world from cyber threats. You’ll learn how to protect sensitive information, prevent cyber attacks, and respond to security breaches. A PGCert will likely cover everything from network security and cryptography to ethical hacking and risk management. 

This qualification is perfect for anyone interested in making a big impact in the tech world by keeping data safe and secure — and the salaries reflect the high level of responsibility you’ll have.

Career options

• Head of cyber security
• Security engineer
• Information security analyst
• Risk manager
• Cloud consultant

Average salaries

Security engineer: £56,411 p/a

Information security analyst: £43,282 p/a

4. PGCert in Artificial Intelligence

Perhaps you’re already working in the tech industry, but want to make the profitable and exciting switch into AI? A PGCert in Artificial Intelligence offers the opportunity to deepen your expertise and expand your skill set. 

You can expect to delve into advanced topics such as cutting-edge machine learning algorithms, complex neural networks, and state-of-the-art AI applications. You’ll explore the latest advancements in natural language processing and robotics, gaining insights into how these technologies are transforming industries worldwide, and learn to navigate the ethical challenges of AI implementation.

Whether you’re aiming to lead AI projects, innovate in tech startups, or transition into strategic positions within your organisation, a PGCert provides the advanced knowledge and skills you need to make a substantial impact in the AI landscape.

Career options

• AI specialist
• AI engineer
• AI ethicist
• Machine learning engineer
• Data scientist

Average salaries

Machine learning engineer: £64,409 p/a

AI specialist: £61,765 p/a

5. PGCert in Project Management

Choosing a PGCert in Project Management is perfect for those who want to lead and manage successful projects. You’ll learn about project planning, risk management, budgeting, and team leadership. 

A PGCert will teach you how to use methodologies like Agile and Waterfall to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. It’s all about gaining the skills needed to handle projects of any size in today’s fast-paced business world.

If you have a knack for organisation and enjoy leading teams to success, this qualification is your gateway to a fulfilling career in project management. And if you already have experience in the field, a PGCert can help you unlock more senior roles and higher salaries.

Career options

• Project manager
• Construction manager
• Product manager
• Supply chain manager
• Healthcare manager

Average salaries

Senior project manager: £63,345 p/a

Supply chain manager: £52,567 p/a

6. PGCert in Digital Marketing

Designed for creative thinkers who love the digital world, a PGCert in digital marketing can prepare you for a wealth of in-demand careers. You’ll explore key areas like SEO, social media marketing, content marketing, and digital analytics, learning how to create engaging marketing campaigns, understand consumer behaviour, and utilise online platforms to connect with audiences. 

Whether you’re looking to advance your current career or break into the digital marketing world, a PGCert in digital marketing will provide the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. Different programs may specialise in different areas of digital marketing, so make sure to do your research so you can choose a program that focuses on your area of interest.

Career options

• Chief marketing officer
• Marketing manager
• Campaign specialist
• Communications coordinator
• Creative director

Average salaries

Marketing manager: £44,394 p/a

Campaign specialist: £38,575 p/a

7. PGCert in Business Management

A PGCert in Business Management is your go-to program if you’re aiming for a leadership role in the business world. You’ll study strategic management, marketing, finance, and leadership, gaining insights into how businesses operate and thrive. This type of program is about building the skills needed to analyse business environments, develop strategies, and lead teams effectively.

Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder or start your own venture, a business management PGCert will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s dynamic business landscape.

We have several great online PGCerts in business management, if you’re looking for a flexible postgraduate option that allows you to study from anywhere you want, at any time. Take a look at our Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership and Management Practice by Nottingham Business School, or our Graduate Certificate of Leadership by Deakin University.

Career options

• Business analyst
• Head of HR
• Project manager
• Management consultant
• Marketing manager

Average salaries

Head of HR: £79,913 p/a

Management consultant: £60,118 p/a

8. PGCert in Law

Studying a PGCert in Law is perfect for those who want to get a solid grounding in legal principles and practices without committing to a full law degree. Programs typically cover everything from contract law and civil litigation to legal research methods and regulatory frameworks. 

You’ll learn how to interpret statutes, analyse legal issues, and apply your knowledge in practical scenarios, making it a great stepping stone for those interested in law-related careers. This program is ideal for anyone looking to broaden their understanding of law and open doors to diverse career opportunities in the legal sector and beyond.

Career options

• Paralegal
• Compliance officer
• Civil servant
• Detective
• Legal secretary

Average salaries

Compliance officer: £35,185 p/a

Detective: £41,361 p/a

9. PGCert in Accounting

Designed for those who want to master the numbers game and understand the financial backbone of businesses, a PGCert in Accounting is an excellent option. You’ll delve into financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation. 

A PGCert will teach you how to prepare and analyse financial statements, navigate tax regulations, and apply accounting standards in real-world situations, ensuring you have the skills to thrive in any accounting role.

Whether you’re aiming for a role in a big firm or want to manage finances for a startup, an accounting PGCert will give you the tools you need to succeed.

Career options

• Accountant
• Accounts manager
• Financial manager
• Bookkeeper
• Tax officer

Average salaries

Accountant: £41,166 p/a

Financial manager: £56,806 p/a

10. PGCert in Psychology

If you’re interested in the human mind and want to help people live happier and more fulfilling lives, a PGCert in Psychology is a fantastic choice for those who don’t necessarily want to commit to becoming a full-fledged psychologist at this time.

A PGCert will introduce you to key psychological concepts, including cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. You’ll learn how to apply psychological principles to understand behaviour, conduct research, and provide support in various settings, making it perfect for anyone looking to explore the world of psychology.

Whether you’re starting your journey in psychology or looking to enhance your skills, this program offers a great blend of theory and practical application to prepare you for a rewarding career helping others.

Career options

• Counsellor
• School therapist
• Occupational therapist
• SEN teacher
• Social worker

Average salaries

Mental health counsellor: £35,945 p/a

Occupational therapist: £37,270 p/a

Final thoughts

Hopefully, this article has given you some food for thought about which postgraduate certificate to choose. Whatever career you want to pursue, there’s most likely a PGCert out there for you, but these are just some of the highest paid options.

Did you know that it’s incredibly easy to study a PGCert online? You can create your own learning schedule that fits around your work and other commitments, study from anywhere you like, and earn a qualification from a world-class institution without ever having to step foot on campus.

At FutureLearn, we have a great selection of online postgraduate certificates, so take a look at some of your options below. Progressing your career has never been more simple.

Online postgraduate certificates on FutureLearn

• Graduate Certificate of Sustainable Development and Humanitarian Action by Deakin University
• Global Sustainability Solutions PGCert (Online) by the University of Exeter
• MSc Nursing: Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing by Coventry University
• Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education by Coventry University
• Postgraduate Certificate in Global Development Management by The Open University.