The most useful degrees in Australia for a sustainable career

If you're graduating high school – or considering a career change – you might be wondering which degrees are best for a successful and fulfilling career. While there is no definite answer, there are trends, both in Australia and worldwide, that point toward certain fields of study that will be useful for the foreseeable future.

Industries are evolving and new jobs are emerging all the time. Five years ago, who knew that generative AI would create such a ripple across so many industries?

Whether you’re still in school or contemplating a mid-life pivot, investing in the right education and training can help future-proof your career. Some qualifications open doors to up-and-coming fields, while others have proven valuable throughout decades of change in the jobs landscape. 

This guide covers some of the most 'useful' degrees and qualifications in Australia, per expert advice from SEEK senior economist, Dr Blair Chapman. It includes both uni degrees and Vocational Education and Training (VET) options, like TAFE certificates and diplomas, aligned with the most in-demand fields and careers.

What makes a degree or qualification ‘useful’?

Useful degrees tend to offer three things: real-world relevance, flexibility, and long-term value. A qualification is useful if it leads directly to jobs that are in demand, builds skills that can transfer across industries, and aligns with sectors that are evergreen (like healthcare) or expected to grow (like automation).

They also tend to offer strong career pathways, be nationally recognised, and reflect what employers are looking for today – as well as what they are likely to want in the future. You can get a sense of demand for certain qualifications and jobs by browsing SEEK job ads and using search terms like 'entry-level' or filters for salary.

Below are 55 of the most useful degrees and qualifications in Australia, related to the most in-demand jobs across the country.

Useful degrees and qualifications for the future

This list is organised by industry, including a mix of university degrees, diplomas and trade qualifications. It’s designed to help you identify study pathways that are practical, relevant, and aligned with future workforce needs.

1. Science degrees

Major in physics

A degree in physics can open many doors. A few examples: careers in space and aeronautical engineering, renewable energy, and even military defence. It builds capabilities in mathematical analysis, problem-solving, and scientific modelling – skills that are in high demand across a wide range of industries. 

Potential jobs: meteorologist, nuclear physicist, defence analyst, and astronomer.

Major in biology

Biology supports breakthroughs in biotech, wildlife conservation, and public health. It’s a flexible option if you’re drawn to working in healthcare, genetics, or environmental sustainability, all of which are growing fields.

Potential jobs: biotechnologist, health educator, and environmental analyst.

Major in environmental science

Environmental science is a fast-growing field, thanks to increasing focus on climate change and sustainability initiatives. With this background, you can work on ecological research and analysis, emissions control, or developing environmental policies. 

Potential jobs: sustainability officer, policy advisor, and environmental consultant.

2. Health degrees

Australia has an ageing population, which means the health care industry to support this growing cohort will also expand. "Individuals are also becoming increasingly health-conscious,” says SEEK senior economist Dr. Blair Chapman. “Hence, the need for more people with healthcare and broader care skills is only going to grow.” 

Bachelor of Nursing

A nursing degree remains one of the most reliable degrees in the healthcare industry. “A bachelor of nursing is a pathway to a career as a registered nurse, an in-demand role that is currently experiencing shortages that are unlikely to go away,” Chapman says. Australia needs nurses across city and rural areas, especially in aged care and acute-care settings.

"The demand for nurses is likely to continue growing for the foreseeable future as our population grows, ages, and increasingly becomes health conscious,” says Blair. 

Potential jobs: registered nurse, critical care nurse, and aged care nurse.

Bachelor of Psychology

Blair also names a bachelor of psychology useful for the future. This degree studies human behaviour and decision-making and is relevant across a vast range of industries, including healthcare, education, recruiting, and consumer goods. It can pave the way for postgraduate study in clinical or organisational psychology.

Chapman adds that with an increasing awareness of the importance of good mental health, there's a "rising demand for mental health services." A bachelor of psychology can be paired with related qualifications in the healthcare field. Useful post-graduate qualifications include:

• Diploma of Mental Health (CHC53315) 

• Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315)

• Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (CHC43515)

Potential jobs: organisational psychologist, market researcher, and youth worker.

Diploma of Mental Health (CHC53315)

A Diploma of Mental Health is a TAFE qualification that allows you to work in community healthcare without a degree. It trains students in trauma response, case management and counselling. These are in-demand skills in crisis centres, outreach programs, and mental health services as a whole. 

Potential jobs: case worker, crisis support worker, and mental health worker.

Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (HLT43015)

The Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance is also ideal for those wanting a faster track into healthcare. With strong demand driven by the NDIS and aged care sectors, this qualification supports careers in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology. 

Potential jobs: physiotherapy assistant and speech pathology assistant.

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) (CHC33021)

“A Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) is another care qualification with demand that will only grow over time, providing individuals with the skills to provide care and support to ageing Australians or Australians living with a disability,” says Chapman.

Potential jobs: nursing assistant, in-home care assistant and family support worker community care worker.

3. Business, management and commerce degrees

Bachelor of Accounting

If you’re good with numbers and want a corporate career with scope across different industries, a bachelor of accounting is a good choice. It offers stable job prospects and a clear path to becoming a CPA or Chartered Accountant in Australia and New Zealand. 

Potential jobs: financial analyst, tax accountant, audit or management accountant, and forensic accountant.  

Major in supply chain and logistics

Supply chain and logistics encompass jobs to do with sourcing materials and shipping/delivery on a global scale. They manage how items get from where they’re made to where they’re needed. The supply chain spans from sourcing through manufacturing, storage, and delivery to shops or homes.

A major in supply chain management and logistics is increasingly valuable due to changing trends in global trade and is important in Australia in particular due to how remote and large a country it is. You might work in procurement, distribution or supply chain analysis, fields where efficiency and strategy matter. 

Potential jobs: procurement manager and supply chain analyst.

Diploma of Human Resource Management (BSB50320)

The Diploma of Human Resource Management is a great starting point if you’re interested in recruitment or organisational development. It provides practical knowledge you can use across most industries. 

Potential jobs: HR officer, recruitment consultant, and learning and development (L&D) advisor.

4. IT degrees

Bachelor of Information Technology - major in cybersecurity or software development

Tech is one of the fastest-growing sectors anywhere. An IT degree with a focus on cybersecurity or software development can lead to well-paid roles in a tech company or in intelligence, defence, finance, healthcare, crypto, e-commerce – the list goes on.

“In recent years, the importance of cybersecurity has been highlighted through some high-profile data breaches,” says Chapman. “A Bachelor of bnformation technology, especially with a major in cybersecurity, is likely to be a valuable degree to have going forward, with businesses needing to secure their systems and data against potential breaches.” 

Potential jobs: cybersecurity analyst, full-stack developer, risk consultant, and compliance officer.

Certificate IV in Information Technology (ICT40120) 

For a faster entry into the tech industry, a Certificate IV in Information Technology offers hands-on skills in support, networks, and troubleshooting without a degree. It’s ideal if you're aiming for a helpdesk or an entry-level tech role. 

Potential jobs: helpdesk officer support tech and junior developer.

Bachelor of Data Science

A bachelor of data science covers the collection and analysis of large sets of data. It involves mathematics and computing modules and suits analytically minded people who enjoy complex problem-solving. Data scientists can find roles in practically any field, as being able to understand data and forecast trends is a highly in-demand skill. 

Potential jobs: data analyst, AI specialist, and business intelligence developer.

5. Engineering degrees

Bachelor of Civil Engineering

A civil engineer designs, builds, and maintains infrastructure like roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems that communities rely on every day. Civil engineering is a reliable career for long-term stability. As the government invests in transport, water, and urban infrastructure, the need for skilled engineers will continue to grow. 

Potential jobs: site engineer, structural engineer and geotechnical engineer.

Bachelor of Engineering majoring in reneweable energy

If you have a passion for sustainability, consider a career in renewable energy. An engineering degree in this sector prepares you to work on wind, solar, and clean energy projects – all set to shape Australia’s future. 

“An engineering degree is also likely to be useful with plenty of construction of new infrastructure required to support the renewable energy transition,” says Chapman. 

Potential jobs: solar engineer, wind energy specialist, and energy consultant. 

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820)

A qualification that requires more hands-on work, a Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician paves the way to becoming a licensed electrician. It’s consistently one of the most in-demand trades, offering great pay and job security. 

“The increasing importance of electricity in the future, as it replaces fossil fuels, will drive demand for qualifications related to the generation and distribution of electricity," says Chapman, adding "electricians may be in short supply in the future."

Did you know there are currently over 16,000 job ads for electrician roles on SEEK?

6. Education degrees

Bachelor of Education

Australia is currently facing a national teacher shortage, especially in STEM, english, and special education. The usual route to becomeing a teacher in Australia is through a bachelor of education, and these degrees are widely offered across the country.

Potential jobs: classroom teacher, school principle, and curriculum leader.

Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122)

For professionals looking to transition into adult education or corporate training, Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is a must-have. It qualifies you to teach at TAFE and deliver workplace training programs for organisations. 

Potential jobs: corporate trainer and TAFE lecturer.

7. Trades and vocational qualifications

Certificate III in Carpentry, Plumbing or Automotive

Vocational trades such as carpentry, plumbing and automotive work are essential to maintaining and developing Australia’s infrastructure. A Certificate III in these areas provides hands-on training and helps you enter the job market quickly. Job roles may include carpenter, plumber, and mechanic.

“An ongoing imbalance in the demand and supply of housing in Australia means skilled tradespeople are needed to help construct houses and apartments across the country, with a lot of these skills currently in short supply,” says Chapman. “With the demand for housing continuing to grow, a Certificate III in Carpentry or Plumbing not only provides practical skills, it also opens up a pathway to in-demand roles.”

Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50210)

This diploma is ideal if you’re already in the trades and want to step up into leadership roles or start your own business. It builds on your experience with project management skills and compliance knowledge.

Potential jobs: construction manager, project manager, site manager, construction foreman, and safety manager.  

8. Communications degrees

Bachelor of Communication (major in digital media or journalism)

The communications field continues to evolve, with increasing applications in digital media. An arts degree with a communications major, or a BA in communications, digital media or journalism gives you skills in storytelling, content creation, and media production.

While journalism focuses on news and reporting, digital media combines creative copywriting with visual storytelling, making both useful fields of study for a career in communications.

Potential jobs: copywriter, content strategist, social media manager, and digital marketer.

Certificate IV in Marketing and Communication (BSB40820)

The Certificate IV in Marketing and Communication is a practical entry point if you’re transitioning into media communications from a different discipline or career. It provides pathways to public relations, content creation and corporate communications. You’ll learn how to engage audiences and craft brand messages that resonate. 

Potential jobs:  PR or brand asssistant and communications coordinator.

9. Social and community studies degrees

Bachelor of Social Work

Social worker is another profession in high demand, with roles in disability care, aged care, and welfare programs. With this degree, you can become a case manager, support coordinator, or advocate. 

Potential jobs:  case manager, NDIS support coordinat or aged care worker.

Diploma of Community Services (CHC52015)

The Diploma of Community Services offers a fast track into roles supporting youth, families, and disadvantaged groups. It combines training in policy with hands-on client care.

10. Agriculture and food science degrees 

Bachelor of Agricultural Science

Agricultural science is vital to Australia’s economy and future as it's directly related to the country's agricultural productivity, major exports, and agribusiness. Working in this field may include developing innovative practices or enhancing competitiveness in global markets.

As the agriculture industry continues to evolve and face climate-related challenges, professionals are needed in areas such as agribusiness, sustainability and food security. This degree offers a combination of science and business training. 

Potential jobs: agronomist, biosecurity officer, plant scientist, and sustainability consultant.  

Certificate III in Horticulture (AHC30716)

If you prefer a practical and flexible outdoor role, Certificate III in Horticulture could be for you. It covers landscaping, gardening, and plant care, and is suitable for careers as a horticulturist, park ranger, or landscaper.

11. Transport and logistics qualifications

Certificate III in Driving Operations (TLI31216)

Without trained drivers and logistics teams, there'd be no way to get essential goods like food, medicine, and fuel to the people who need them. This certificate trains you to safely operate heavy vehicles like trucks and buses, and includes vehicle handling, road safety, load management, fatigue rules, and working within transport regulations. It’s a formal step toward becoming a professional driver in the freight, construction, logistics, or passenger transport industries. With experience, you can progress to training or leadership roles. 

Potential jobs: agitator driver, bus driver, line haul driver, and local heavy general freight driver.

Diploma of Logistics (TLI50221)

The Diploma of Logistics equips you to manage supply chains, warehouses, and transport fleets, without a degree. As online shopping grows and global distribution networks expand, logistics experts are more important than ever. 

Potential jobs: warehouse manager and fleet coordinator.

12. Finance degrees

Bachelor of Finance or Financial Planning

Finance experts are critical in every industry and organisation, making this degree one of the most useful and transferable across different sectors. A degree in finance can open the door to a vast range of roles, from bookkeeping and accounting to wealth management and investment banking, all commanding high salaries. 

Job roles may include financial advisor, investment analyst and risk manager.

Diploma of Financial Services (FNS51820)

If you want to get your finance career started quickly, the Diploma of Financial Services provides a pathway into lending, insurance, banking, and credit analysis – all areas with strong demand.

Emerging and interdisciplinary areas

As industries evolve, new qualifications emerge where different fields overlap. These areas are worth looking into when you're coosing a degree, because they reflect where the future of work is headed. Some of these today require a mix of skills from science, technology, business and design.

For example, sustainability is now a focus in business, science and engineering, with qualifications available in these areas, such as degrees in sustainable business management, environmental science, and renewable energy engineering. These qualifications are in demand across industries aiming to reduce carbon footprints and meet climate goals.

AI is another emerging and growing field. Postgraduate certificates in AI and machine learning are a good option for those looking to specialise in IT or data science. Similarly, climate resilience is becoming a key area for urban planners and engineers, which means more demand for roles like climate adaptation specialist sustainable infrastructure designer, and disaster risk reduction adviser.

Digital health is another growing field. It integrates technology into patient care, leading to a surge in demand for professionals skilled in both healthcare and digital technologies. This creates job roles that may include telehealth coordinators, clinical data analysts, and healthcare software developers.   

Meanwhile, creative technology specialisations combine design with coding, such as UX/UI design or AR/VR development. They are increasingly in demand as more businesses invest in digital experiences. As a result, we’ll also see growing demand for jobs like ux/ui designers, immersive experience developers, and interactive media specialists.  

The qualification you choose today can build a career that can last the distance, giving you foundational skills that will continue to be relevant as the times change. Whether you’re drawn to data science or diesel mechanics, the best choice of qualification is one that plays to your strengths while aligning with Australia's current and predicted job trends.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a degree and a qualification? 

All degrees are qualifications. 'Qualification' is the category name for an official requirement: degrees, diplomas, licenses, certificates etc. A degree is a university-level qualification focuses on academic theory that takes three years or more to complete. 

Qualifications such as certificates and diplomas are usually offered through TAFE or registered training organisations. They are shorter and tend to focus on practical, job-ready skills. Both can lead to rewarding careers, depending on your goals and preferred learning style.

Can I upskill without starting my education from scratch? 

Yes, you can upskill without completely starting over. Many people build on their existing qualifications or work experience with vocational training, diplomas or post-graduate studies. These options allow you to stay current in your field, pivot into new areas, or meet industry certification requirements without committing to a multi-year degree.

Do I need to go back to university to change careers?

Not necessarily. TAFE and online courses are great alternatives if you want a faster, more affordable way to enter a new industry. Many people switch careers by completing a Certificate IV or Diplomaat TAFE, which provides them with practical skills and work placement experience. In some cases, these qualifications can also count toward a future degree.

Are vocational qualifications worth it?

Yes, if you want to get into the workforce quickly or work in trades, healthcare, community services or IT support. These qualifications are recognised by employers, offer hands-on training, and can help you break into your desired field. In many industries they’re considered just as valuable as a degree, especially for entry-level roles.

Where can I find accredited courses?

You can search for accredited courses through national training providers, such as TAFE, private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and universities. Make sure the provider is registered with either ASQA or TEQSA, depending on the course type.

Which courses are the fastest to complete? 

Certificates III and IV are among the quickest, typically taking between six and 12 months to complete. Diplomas can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on the program and study load. Short courses can be completed in just a few weeks, making them great for targeted skill development.

7. How can I determine if a qualification is in high demand?

A good starting point is job ads on SEEK. Examine how frequently a specific qualification is mentioned and for which roles it is required. Also, consider checking the Australian Government’s Skills Priority List, which tracks national labour shortages and areas of expected growth.

8. What qualifications are best if I want to work overseas?

Some qualifications, such as nursing, finance, IT, and teaching degrees, tend to be recognised internationally. However, you’ll still need to check the licensing or registration requirements in your destination country. International universities and global training providers sometimes offer programs specifically designed for overseas recognition.

9. Which jobs are future-proof? 

Jobs in healthcare, renewable energy, education, data science, cybersecurity, and logistics are expected to remain stable or grow in the future. These roles are supported by structural shifts in society, including population aging, climate action, and digital transformation. Choosing a qualification aligned with these industries can improve your career resilience over time.