Having the right degree can help you land a high-paying job in a stable career field. Earning any of these degrees may be challenging, but the payoff will be worth the effort. These four degrees can lead toward a life of financial freedom.

Economics

If you enjoy working with finances and statistics, a degree in this field may be the right option. You can earn a B.S. Degree in economics and then go for a master’s degree to enhance your job prospects. According to Bankrate, you can use your education to work in the financial, government or education field. Career opportunities for economics majors also exist in the law, research and nonprofit sectors. The amount of money that you earn will depend on the specific economics field that you choose to pursue.

Orthodontics

You’ll be considered a specialist in dentistry with an orthodontics degree. After fulfilling the education requirements to obtain a DDS or DMD degree, you can begin studying to become an orthodontist. It may take an additional four years to earn a Master of Science or Doctor of Science degree in orthodontics. You’ll then need to pass the American Board of Orthodontics examination before you can start working. Even though fulfilling your education requirements may be tough, you’ll work in a lucrative, recession-proof career as an orthodontist.

Civil Engineering

You can help shape the future of modern civilization with a civil engineering degree. You’ll learn about specific topics such as structural, environmental and construction management engineering when you study for your degree. Master of Civil Engineering programs can be completed through Norwich University and other online schools in 18 to 24 months. When you start working, people will depend on you to help develop reliable infrastructure for sustainability. You’ll also need to be able to work well with technology to be successful in this field.

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

With just a bachelor’s degree, you can enter this career field and help companies maintain their safety standards. During your training, you’ll learn how to identify potential safety hazards in workplaces and implement the best solutions. You’ll also learn about fire prevention and code enforcement. Construction safety, industrial ergonomics and toxicology are other important subjects that you’ll study. Standards set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will need to be followed while doing your job.

If you want to enjoy financial security in your life, these degrees provide great opportunities. You’ll also be making positive contributions to society when you earn one of these degrees.

Hannah Whittenly is a freelance writer and mother of two from Sacramento, CA. She enjoys kayaking and reading books by the lake.