Discover the best online degrees in New York and explore high-demand college majors for 2025 to stay ahead in an evolving career landscape.
Top College Majors & Online Degrees in New York and Beyond
In today’s fast-changing job market, choosing the right college major can make all the difference. With industries evolving rapidly, it’s more important than ever to focus on degrees that offer real-world skills and lead to in-demand careers.
Whether you’re starting your career or looking to grow professionally, earning a degree—especially through flexible online programs—can open doors to better opportunities and higher pay. The City University of New York (CUNY) offers online degrees in many of the most sought-after fields, helping students stay ahead in the modern workforce.
Job Market Trends: 2023–2033
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 6.7 million new jobs are expected by 2033. However, job growth will slow to around 0.4% per year, making it even more crucial to pick a major that aligns with future opportunities.
Major trends driving the job market include:
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Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and tech
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An aging population
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A strong push toward clean energy
These factors are reshaping the types of skills employers want. Let’s take a closer look at the top college majors and online degrees that are leading the way.
Healthcare & Nursing: A Booming Career Path
Healthcare continues to be one of the fastest-growing industries, thanks to rising demand for medical services. The BLS predicts a 13% growth in healthcare jobs, adding over 2 million new roles by 2033.
Top roles to consider:
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Nurse Practitioners
Expected growth: 40%
Over 30,000 job openings each year make this a top pick for job security and high earning potential. -
Medical & Health Services Managers
Expected growth: 29%
Around 61,000 positions open annually in hospitals, clinics, and health systems. -
Physician Assistants
Expected growth: 28%
Nearly 13,000 new openings every year nationwide.
In New York, the healthcare sector has grown 39% since 2000—far outpacing overall job growth. Positions like registered nurses, home health aides, and lab technologists are especially in demand due to increasing salaries and staffing shortages.
Business, Math & Data Science: High-Tech, High-Demand
With AI and big data transforming how businesses operate, degrees in math, statistics, and business are more valuable than ever. The BLS expects jobs for mathematicians and statisticians to grow by 11% over the next decade.
Career paths to watch:
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Data Scientists
Growth rate: 36%
These professionals are vital in fields like tech, finance, and marketing. -
Actuaries
Growth rate: 22%
Actuaries evaluate risk for insurance companies and financial institutions—roles that require strong analytical skills.
In NYC, the finance and tech industries are booming. With a shortage of STEM professionals and high demand for data-driven roles, business and math degrees offer strong career prospects.
Education: Teaching Careers in Urgent Need
Teaching remains a stable and meaningful profession, but school districts across the U.S. are struggling with teacher shortages. In NYC alone, more than 4,000 new teachers are needed annually, especially in:
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Special education
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Bilingual education
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STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)
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ESL (English as a Second Language)
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World languages
After COVID and a rise in retirements, NYC schools are also adjusting to new class size mandates, requiring more qualified educators than ever before.
CUNY leads the way in training teachers—more than any other institution in the state. New online education degrees in reading science and math make it easier for working professionals to step into the classroom.
Other Fast-Growing Fields: Clean Energy & Sustainability
Two of the fastest-growing jobs in the country are:
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Wind Turbine Technicians
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Solar Photovoltaic Installers
These roles reflect the growing urgency around climate change and sustainability. In New York, clean energy jobs reached 178,000 by the end of 2023, marking a record high.
Careers in sustainability and environmental science are not only meaningful—they’re also on track for long-term growth.
Tips for Choosing the Right Major
Choosing a major is about more than just job stats—it’s about finding the right fit for your interests, skills, and future goals.
Here’s how to make a smart decision:
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Do Your Research
Use resources like the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook and state labor department data to explore job growth, pay scales, and local demand. -
Check Real Job Postings
See what employers are actually looking for in your area—skills, certifications, and experience matter. -
Know Yourself
Ask: What do I enjoy? What am I good at? What kind of work environment suits me? -
Invest in Transferable Skills
Communication, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability are valuable in any field—and will make you future-ready.