College Majors that Make the Most Money (And Why They’re Worth Considering)
Salary isn’t always top of mind for incoming freshmen, but it’s definitely something to consider when thinking about life after college. But don’t get us wrong. We’re not telling you to chase a big paycheck. You should absolutely pursue whatever aligns with your interests and passions. However, if you’re still exploring your options, it helps to know which majors can offer higher salaries.
In this article, we’ll cover ten majors that make the most money and other factors to consider beyond the paycheck.
10 high-paying college majors
Here are ten majors that can rake in a lot of dough for graduates.
Information systems
Best for: Planners, team players, tech fanatics
Median annual salary: $171,200
Careers: Computer and information systems manager, data scientist, network administrator
Why it pays: Nice blend of technology and strategy that helps organizations run more smoothly.
This major combines computer science, business, and information technology. By the time you cross the stage, you’ll be equipped to manage and transform data into valuable information.
Computer engineering
Best for: Tech enthusiasts, builders, and logical thinkers
Median annual salary: $155,020
Careers: Computer hardware engineer, software engineer, computer systems analyst
Why it pays: Combines complex hardware and software knowledge with industries that are constantly seeking innovation.
A computer engineering major is a blend of computer science, engineering, and mathematics to analyze, design, and develop computer hardware. This major offers a wide range of career options, from software engineering to cybersecurity.
Petroleum engineering
Best for: Science lovers, problem-solvers, hands-on learners
Median annual salary: $141,280
Careers: Petroleum engineer, reservoir engineer, geophysicist
Why it pays: High-risk, high-skill industry with a very limited talent pool.
With a petroleum engineering major, you can work in roles that involve designing and developing methods to extract natural gas and oil from reservoirs across the world. These jobs often require frequent travel, but they also come with significant responsibilities.
Computer science
Best for: Coders, gamers, puzzle solvers
Median annual salary: $140,910
Careers: Computer and information research scientist, software architect, cybersecurity engineer
Why it pays: Software runs just about everything, and there’s a constant need for people who can build and maintain it.
A computer science major encompasses the theoretical and practical aspects of computers and their applications, including programming, data structures, and software design. This major will open the doors to nearly every industry, ranging from healthcare to gaming.
Aerospace engineering
Best for: Space fans, future engineers, curious minds
Median annual salary: $134,830
Careers: Aerospace engineer, flight systems engineer, propulsion engineer
Why it pays: Aerospace projects are super complex, expensive, and require precision engineering.
Aerospace engineering majors are equipped with the knowledge and skills to design, develop, and test spacecraft, aircraft, satellites, and missiles. This major serves as a great launchpad (no pun intended) for diverse career options in aerospace, research, and government.
Electrical engineering
Best for: Detail-oriented thinkers, problem solvers, tinkerers
Median annual salary: $118,780
Careers: Electrical and electronics engineer, control systems engineer, power systems analyst
Why it pays: High demand for expertise, and the job duties are very complex.
As the name suggests, an electrical engineering major prepares you for a career designing, developing, and testing electrical and electronic equipment, systems, and components. This major is highly valuable in industries like telecommunications, energy, and robotics.
Construction management
Best for: Leaders, organizers, hands-on problem solvers
Median annual salary: $106,980
Careers: Construction manager, cost estimator, site supervisor
Why it pays: Professionals hold significant responsibilities for large, expensive projects with numerous moving parts.
Want to be responsible for skyscrapers or a neighborhood of lavish family homes? A construction management major prepares students to handle the day-to-day operations of construction sites from start to finish.
Applied mathematics
Best for: Math lovers, logic fans, big-picture thinkers
Median annual salary: $104,350
Careers: Mathematician, quantitative analyst, actuary
Why it pays: Math is needed everywhere, as it serves as the backbone of problem-solving across industries such as finance, technology, and science.
An applied mathematics major gives you a strong foundation in mathematical theories and concepts, and how they apply to fields like science, engineering, and business. This major offers a diverse range of career paths, ranging from finance to education.
Finance
Best for: Math lovers, strategic thinkers, spreadsheet fans
Median annual salary: $101,910
Careers: Financial analyst, investment banker, financial planner
Why it pays: Financial expertise enables individuals and organizations to generate more revenue.
As a finance major, you’ll learn about banking, markets, investments, risk management, and corporate finance. It’s a flexible degree that can lead you to various industries, including fintech, healthcare, and real estate.
Industrial engineering
Best for: Organizers, system fixers, efficiency experts
Median annual salary: $101,140
Careers: Industrial engineer, manufacturing technician, mechanical designer
Why it pays: Companies invest significant resources to streamline their processes and reduce costs.
Graduates of an industrial engineering program possess the skills and knowledge necessary to design, develop, and implement innovative systems that enhance operational efficiency. Ultimately, you’ll learn how to make things run more smoothly and efficiently.
The right major is more than money
Does salary matter? Yes, but it’s not the only thing to consider in your college journey and future career. Before you make a decision solely based on money, here are a few things worth thinking about:
Interest and passion
A bachelor’s degree is four years long, plus the many years you’ll work in your career. While you can switch majors if you’re not feeling your classes, why not go with a major that aligns with your interests and passions from the start? Don’t suffer through several semesters of math and science for a high-paying job in engineering when you really enjoy something else.
Plus, taking classes you actually enjoy can boost your academic performance and job satisfaction, and ultimately lead to success in the long run.
Strengths and skills
Are you more of a hands-on learner, or do you learn better through lectures and reading material? Do you like working as a team or prefer working alone? Your strengths can guide you to a major where you’ll thrive and likely still make a nice salary.
Career goals and lifestyle
It’s never too early to consider what you want out of your future career. Some of the majors we covered may require extensive hands-on work, travel, or working on highly complex projects. If you’re okay with these things, great—but if you prefer a 9-to-5 schedule, the ability to work from home, or just a less stressful job, make sure you choose a major that aligns with your needs.
Educational level
Sometimes, a high-earning job requires more than just a bachelor’s degree, which is why you need to look at the whole picture. Will you need to get a master’s degree or certificate to land a high-paying role? If you don’t plan to attend graduate school, you probably want to pursue a major that provides strong job prospects for a bachelor’s education and experience.
Job market and demand
Just because a major can lead to high-paying careers doesn’t guarantee that those jobs will be available when you graduate. Be sure to review job outlooks (the Occupational Outlook Handbook is a great resource), hiring trends, and the current demand for specific careers. The last thing you want to do is spend four years studying hard for your degree only to have difficulty finding a job that aligns with your expertise.
Transferable skills
While some majors teach you specific skills, others deliver a curriculum that gives you a broader range of tools that can be applied to many jobs. For example, majors such as finance or computer science can open doors to a wide range of jobs across various industries. If you ever feel like changing career paths, you can easily do so.
Aligning your major with goals
Attending college is a significant step toward your future career. It’s okay to seek a major that can lead to a high-paying job, but make sure that it aligns with your interests, career goals, and lifestyle. While you can always get a second degree, why not make the right choice on the first try and start the path to a rewarding career you love?
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