7 College Majors With the Highest Starting Salaries
Choosing a college major is one of the most important decisions a student makes, one that can shape career opportunities, earning potential, and even long-term financial stability. With the rising cost of higher education and increasing student loan debt, students and their families are paying closer attention to the return on investment (ROI) of different degree paths. In this context, certain college majors, particularly those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and select business and healthcare fields, stand out for offering high salaries and job security right after graduation.
Here’s a look at 7 top-paying college majors based on early career salaries, job demand, and career stability.
1. Computer Science
Early Career Median Salary: $80,000
Computer science is a powerhouse of a major in today’s tech-driven economy. With foundational coursework in mathematics, logic, programming, and systems theory, students graduate equipped to solve real-world problems using computational tools. Job opportunities abound in software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analysis, and more. As businesses and governments continue to digitize operations, demand for computer science graduates remains consistently high.
2. Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS)
Early Career Median Salary: $118,780
EECS is a hybrid major that blends electrical engineering fundamentals with advanced computer science. This combination enables graduates to work on the design and optimization of both hardware and software systems, making them highly sought-after in the technology and innovation sectors. With tech giants and startups alike offering generous compensation packages, this degree has one of the highest entry-level salaries of any undergraduate program.
3. Chemical Engineering
Early Career Median Salary: $80,000
Chemical engineering is a versatile and lucrative field where students learn to apply chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics to solve real-world problems related to energy, materials, and environmental sustainability. Graduates often work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Their ability to design and optimize processes for mass production and resource efficiency makes them critical to many sectors of the global economy.
4. Operations Research
Average First Job Salary: $91,290
Operations Research is a niche but increasingly valuable field focused on applying mathematical and analytical techniques to improve decision-making. Professionals in this discipline work in logistics, finance, consulting, and tech, using data modeling and optimization to streamline operations and reduce costs. The major offers an ideal mix for students interested in both quantitative analysis and real-world problem-solving.
5. Aerospace Engineering
Early Career Median Salary: $76,000
For students fascinated by flight and space exploration, aerospace engineering offers an exciting and well-paying career path. Aerospace engineers are involved in designing, developing, and testing aircraft, satellites, and spacecraft. Their expertise is vital in industries ranging from defense to commercial aviation and space research. While the work is highly technical, it also offers strong salary potential and job stability in specialized sectors.
6. Physician Assistant Studies
Early Career Median Salary: $133,260
In the healthcare sector, Physician Assistant (PA) Studies is one of the fastest-growing and best-compensated fields. PAs are trained to diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and even perform certain medical procedures under a physician’s supervision. With rising demand for healthcare services and an aging population, the job market for PAs is expanding rapidly. The high level of responsibility, combined with shorter training time than physicians, makes this a highly attractive major for students looking to enter medicine.
7. Petroleum Engineering
Early Career Median Salary: $80,000
A specialized branch of engineering, petroleum engineering involves the extraction and production of oil and gas. Though sometimes subject to energy market fluctuations, this field consistently ranks among the top for salary potential. Petroleum engineers are particularly in demand in energy-rich regions, and their expertise in developing cost-efficient and environmentally conscious methods of resource extraction is highly valued.
Origin Article: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/7-college-majors-highest-starting-170111983.html?guccounter=1