Choosing the right college major can feel overwhelming, especially with many paths to explore. Sometimes, it becomes more challenging when you are confused about which degrees open doors to high salaries and in-demand careers. So, let’s figure that out. However, location, experience, and certifications can significantly impact earning potential.
Petroleum Engineering
Petroleum engineers develop innovative methods to extract oil and gas from beneath the Earth’s surface, earning a median annual wage of $135,690 as of May 2023. This field offers steady demand, with employment projected to grow by 2% through 2033 and around 1,200 openings yearly, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Computer Engineering
According to BLS data, computer engineers had a median annual wage of $138,080 as of 2024. Recent graduates typically start with a median salary of $80,000. Salaries can vary based on industry sector, with roles in advanced technology often offering higher pay.
Aerospace Engineering
Experience and the industry sector greatly influence the salary of aerospace engineers. As of May 2023, they earned a median annual wage of $130,720. As the BLS suggests, thanks to advanced technology and booming investments in aviation and space, the field is expected to grow by 6% through 2033.
Electrical Engineering
The median yearly salary for electrical engineers was $106,950 in 2023, but the journey starts with a median salary of $72,000 for recent grads, as declared by the BLS. Paychecks grow with experience, and where you work matters, too, as research and development roles often spark higher salaries than manufacturing gigs.
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineers are at the forefront of developing devices that drive industries from automotive to energy. The May 2023 data from BLS shows they earned a median annual wage of $99,510, with recent graduates starting at around $70,000. Moreover, the field is expected to grow by 11% through 2033.
Computer Science
The BLS declared that approximately 356,700 job openings in computer and information technology are projected each year for the next eight years, reflecting strong demand for computer science majors studying algorithms and systems design. Currently, they have an average starting salary of $76,251 for the new graduates.
Finance
In terms of compensation, finance majors can expect competitive salaries. According to BLS, the median yearly salary for business and finance occupations reached $79,050 in May 2023—well above the median wage for all occupations. Also, recent finance graduates earn a median starting salary of $66,000, per the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
Chemical Engineering
A career in chemical engineering offers competitive salaries and the chance to contribute to innovative developments that address global challenges and drive the industry forward. As of May 2023, the BLS reported that the median wage for chemical engineers was $112,100, reflecting the high demand and skills required.
Industrial Engineering
Industrial engineers play an essential role in optimizing complex processes and systems across a diverse range of industries. They are employed in the manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, and technology sectors, where they work to improve efficiency. The median yearly wage for industrial engineers is $99,380, per the BLS.
Information Security
The data from BLS declares that industries like computer systems design and related ones employ the highest number of these professionals, offering an annual mean wage of $137,960. Geographically, states like California have the highest employment levels in this field, with annual mean salaries of $137,600 and $131,340, respectively.
