Advice on next career move needed. Thanks!?

I work for a government contractor in Fairfax, VA that specializes i conducting analysis for oil & gas companies and/or industry associations. I've been at my job for 3 years now, and I came into the job with almost 2 years of experience. When I took the job, the US economy was heading into the financial crisis (e.g. 2008), and I didn't want to make myself dependent on my parents or unemployment benefits. I thought that any job is better than no job; and who knows? Maybe this job will turn into something later on. However, after 3 years, I feel like the people at my workplace (e.g. supervisors) have not really given any thought or efforts to my professional development. I brought up these concerns of minie during my second year at the company. When a manager has time, he would try to do something about it (although this is not a consistent effort). And my hiring manager have basically told me - "it's up to you to make things better here for yourself." I do intend on putting in the efofrts to make my looking fofrward to work - everyone needs to be responsible for his or her career to a certain extent. But I am not sure if I can change work practices or project management styles that have been embedded within my managers for the last 30+ years. Also, I realized that the more focused that I am at work; the more I feel menial at work (due to the kind of assignmnents that I'm given); the more upset I become with my life. This then causes a whole series of problems. I thought about looking for another job, but am hesitant because (1) the conomy is not great; every job has its own set of problems; (3) I'm hopeful that something will get worked out over time. But in the meantime, I am also thinking of shifting my focus from work to getting more education, using the company tuition reimbursement policy (so that when the job gets better, I can look for more opportunities). I want a job that is highly respected; pays well; and will not make me feel like I am stuck in a junior staff position without any kind of respect (e.g. having to deal with a lot of patronizing attitudes such as "oh, you can't do this - here, do internet research for me instead.) Should I go back to school and get a Ph.d in computational science & informatics / quantitative analysis - something that I've always wanted to do and have some experience with; (2) Should I take my share of accounting courses and do a JD and specialize in project financing law - something that my company deals with on an occasional basis. It's a field to whcih I gain exposure from time to time; (3) Should I take the required courses to gain medical school admission (even though there is a possibility that I may never get in). What would be the best educational course to having a fulfilling career with a lot of demand for the skill set, job growth, financial security, and little chance of layoff? Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!