College Majors That Earn The Most Money

Choosing a college major is a big decision. Students must decide to study something that challenges and interests them while balancing the hard realities of the job market and outlook on career paths. A good salary coming out of college is key to a financially secure future, and with increasing student loan debts, choosing a major that yields bigger salaries out the gate becomes even more desirable.

To show just how valuable some college majors can be, Stacker used data from a 2020 PayScale report to rank the top 100 college majors that alumni make the most money from in their respective professional careers.The rankings, released in 2021, are based on the highest average mid-career salary. For each major, information is provided about potential jobs, the high income skills students will attain in school, and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections regarding the likelihood of finding a job upon graduation with a bachelor’s degree.Keep reading to find out if your major made the list of college majors that earn the most money.

– Early career pay: $69,600 – Mid-career pay: $113,900 – Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%

Electronics Engineering

Electronics engineering focuses on the design and development of electronic devices, including phones, music players, and GPS systems. Majors will be taught the ins and outs of digital systems design and circuit theory, and adding drafting courses enhances a graduate’s employability.

– Early career pay: $65,000 – Mid-career pay: $114,100 – Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%

Management Information Systems

It is the role of an information systems manager to make data accessible and actionable through technology. This line of work requires problem-solving and analysis to find ways in which businesses can more efficiently make connections between data and the product or services they provide.

– Early career pay: $95,900 – Mid-career pay: $118,500 – Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 84%

Physician Assistant Studies

Physician assistant studies prepare majors for a career in the medical field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most in the field require a master’s degree. This industry is forecasted to grow by up to 31% by 2028, making it an appealing choice for those interested in job security.

– Early career pay: $67,700 – Mid-career pay: $134,400 – Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%

Actuarial Science

Assessing risk within a particular industry falls under the purview of an actuarial science graduate, who uses math and statistics. Insurance companies are the primary employers of actuaries, who help create rates on premiums from life to car insurances. The field is expected to grow rapidly in the next decade, while adding business and analytics courses can help boost graduates’ prospects in what’s becoming a highly competitive job market.

– Early career pay: $68,600 – Mid-career pay: $138,700 – Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 78%

Pharmacy

Becoming a full-fledged pharmacist requires a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate in pharmacy. Four-year grads undertake an intensive study of biology and chemistry, while learning about the production and manufacture of pharmaceuticals. The need for professionals in this field is expected to increase rapidly over the next decade, as a growing elderly population creates a rise in demand within the health care industry.

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