These Are the 41 Majors That Make the Most Money

Updated on May 31st, 2024

Many students want to pick majors that make the most money, leading them to ask a critical question: what major makes the most money? After all, earnings potential is part of the equation, particularly if they’re concerned about paying off student loans or living a comfortable lifestyle.

By factoring in earnings potential, students can choose an educational track that leads to great pay, benefits, and more, giving them a path that supports their desired lifestyle once they launch their careers. But figuring out which majors make the most money isn’t easy. Many factors are in play, many of them going far beyond the subject a student chooses. If your student wants to ensure their earnings potential is top-notch, here’s a look at some of the considerations and a list of majors that typically make the most money.

If you and your student want to learn more about where to find local scholarships and national awards, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Take a trip over to http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve your spot today.

Is Any Major Guaranteed to Lead to a High-Paying Job?

Before we dig into the highest-paying majors, it’s important to realize that the major itself isn’t always what leads to higher pay. Instead, it’s the career path your student chooses after they graduate.

Even jobs with similar titles can offer wildly different pay rates. The nature of the duties, type of organization, and even physical location all impact salaries. For example, while doctors are classically known for having substantial compensation packages, the average starting salary a person may earn as a specialist in a cutting-edge practice will be different than what a more general physician working in a free clinic might make.

Additionally, while various majors may make a person eligible for a high-paying job, the number of opportunities in individual segments may be limited. Snagging specific positions can be challenging, and many people with the right qualifications may not end up in those roles.

Further, some jobs that come with generous salaries require advanced degrees. At times, a Master’s or Doctorate degree program is necessary to tap the full earning potential of a field. That means dedicating more time – and potentially money – to education before even qualifying for those roles. For some, getting one of these highest-paying degrees may feel like time well spent, but not everyone would agree.

Finally, you can’t ignore the influence of individual performance. Even with a stellar, in-demand college degree in one of the high-paying college majors, how a person handles their responsibilities in every job they hold affects their career’s overall arc. Top performers may get farther than those who simply meet expectations simply by virtue of their effort and capabilities.

However, with that said, certain majors do have more potential for high-paying careers than others. If salary is a significant concern for your student, getting a degree in one of those areas may increase their chances of getting the compensation they are after. But it’s never a guarantee.

41 MAJORS THAT MAKE THE MOST MONEY

So, what major gives you the most money? As mentioned above, no major guarantees a high salary. However, for the highest-paying college majors, specific degrees are ahead of others due to their potential.

Plus, getting a degree in certain subjects may give your student more career stability. For example, some industries were hit hard by COVID-19, while others flourished.

Of those that saw growth, some may be explicitly related to situations created by the pandemic, while others may be due to the ongoing need for specific products or services at all times. While those in the latter category may seem like the best degrees to get, providing the stability that may otherwise be hard to find, it doesn’t mean other options aren’t viable.

This list is designed to offer a bit of both perspectives. Career longevity can influence long-term earnings potential, making it a relevant part of the equation. However, so does the major itself.

Additionally, the information below focuses on average starting base salaries. Often, with experience, professionals with these degrees can make more as they move up the ladder, so students should keep that in mind as they explore their options.

With that in mind, here’s a look at the high-paying majors – including average salaries for degree holders – that offer ongoing growth potential and stability.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND COMPUTING MAJORS

Most students aren’t surprised about the potential of a career in technology. The landscape is surprisingly vast, covering a wide range of niches that seem to become more crucial on a societal level each day.

By majoring in information technology or computing-related fields, students usually have the foundation for solid careers. Here’s a look at some of the high-paying degrees that fall into this category – with their average annual salaries – that have excellent long-term potential.

1. Cybersecurity – $77,000

Cybersecurity majors step into the digital frontline, safeguarding information from cyber threats and attacks. With an average starting salary that ranks among the highest-paying college majors, this field promises exciting challenges and rewarding financial prospects.

2. Software Engineering – $88,000

Dive into the world of software engineering, where you’ll design and develop software solutions that power the modern world. As one of the Bachelor’s degrees that pay well, graduates often enjoy an impressive average starting salary, reflecting the high demand and value of their expertise.

3. Computer Science – $93,000

Computer science majors unlock the secrets of computing, data analysis, and algorithm development, making them indispensable in today’s tech-driven society. With one of the highest-paying college majors under their belt, these graduates can expect lucrative average starting salaries and a wide range of career opportunities. However, since computer science is a broader degree, students may earn more or less depending on how their careers unfold.

4. Information Technology – $74,000

Diving into IT means becoming the backbone of any company by managing its tech infrastructure. You’re the go-to for keeping systems running smoothly and introducing the latest tech solutions. Like computer science, an information technology degree can take professionals in various directions, so students should explore the earning potential of their desired career for more accurate salary information.

5. Computer Networking – $86,000

Specializing in computer networking is all about ensuring smooth communication between digital devices. You’ll set up, maintain, and troubleshoot networks to keep the data flowing.

6. Systems Engineering – $96,000

Stepping into systems engineering, you’ll design and integrate complex systems, ensuring they work harmoniously. It’s like being the conductor of an intricate technological orchestra.

HEALTHCARE, MEDICINE, AND MEDICAL ENGINEERING MAJORS

Another broader field that’s known for high demand and excellent salaries for college graduates is healthcare and medicine. With the population generally aging, the need for professionals in these positions continues to grow, causing some of these degrees to be good college majors from a financial and stability perspective.

Students can position themselves for stable, lucrative careers by majoring in a healthcare-related subject. Remember that some professions require advanced degrees while others make medical school necessary. Here’s a list of majors that fall into this category and average salaries:

7. Nursing – $94,000

Nursing is the heart of healthcare, providing critical care and compassion to patients. You’re on the front lines, directly impacting people’s health and recovery.

8. Biomedical Engineering – $81,000

Merge the worlds of engineering and medicine in biomedical engineering to develop groundbreaking medical devices and technologies. You’re inventing the future of healthcare.

9. Medicine – $230,000

When it comes to the highest-paying college major, medicine can easily qualify. A career in medicine is a commitment to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness, making a profound difference in people’s lives. It’s a long road, but the impact is immeasurable.

10. Physical Therapy – $76,000

As a physical therapist, you’re the architect of recovery, helping patients regain physical movement and manage pain. It’s hands-on work that restores quality of life.

11. Pharmacology – $83,000

In pharmacology, you dive into the science of drugs and their effects on the human body. You’re at the forefront of developing and testing new medications that can change lives.

12. Dentistry – $120,000

Dentistry combines art and science to maintain oral health, from routine care to complex procedures. You’re not just fixing teeth; you’re enhancing smiles and well-being.

13. Healthcare Administration – $70,000

Healthcare administration is about steering the ship of medical facilities, ensuring they run efficiently and effectively. You’re the behind-the-scenes hero keeping healthcare systems afloat.

14. Health Informatics – $73,000

Health informatics is where data meets healthcare, optimizing patient care through technology. You’re the bridge between clinicians and tech, making healthcare smarter.

 

MARKETING, ADVERTISING, AND PUBLIC RELATIONS MAJORS

The business landscape is always competitive, regardless of what else is happening worldwide. As a result, professionals with proven marketing, advertising, and public relations chops will continue to find opportunities, which is why these are some of the top-paying college degrees still available.

Here is a list of majors that apply to these fields, along with the average salaries for degree holders:

15. Marketing – $75,000

In marketing, you’re crafting stories that connect brands with consumers. It’s a blend of creativity and strategy to drive demand and loyalty.

16. Advertising – $66,000

Advertising is the art of persuasion, creating compelling campaigns that capture attention and inspire action. You’re in the business of ideas that sell.

17. Public Relations – $63,000

PR is all about managing reputations and shaping public perception. You’re the organization’s voice, building relationships and handling crises with finesse.

18. Communications – $60,000

A career in communications means you’re the master of messaging, ensuring information is clear, compelling, and reaches the right audience. You keep the lines open and the conversation flowing.

ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION MAJORS

Regarding lucrative STEM careers, engineering is one of the leading options. Many of the positions that these degrees lead to pay handsomely. Plus, there’s a notable amount of growth potential.

Here is a list of engineering and construction-related majors and average salaries that could work well today:

19. Petroleum Engineering – $110,000

As a petroleum engineer, you’re tapping into the earth’s resources, optimizing oil and gas extraction. It’s a high-stakes game of innovation and sustainability.

20. Nuclear Engineering – $90,000

Nuclear engineering is about harnessing the power of atomic energy, from power plants to medical applications. You’re working with the universe’s building blocks to power the future.

21. Electronics Engineering – $93,000

Where electrical engineering focuses on large-scale projects and infrastructure, electronics engineering involves designing the gadgets and systems that keep the digital world spinning. From smartphones to satellites, you make modern life possible.

22. Mechanical Engineering – $86,000

Mechanical engineering is typically considered one of the broadest fields of engineering. Professionals in this niche focus on designing and manufacturing everything from small parts to massive machines. With this degree, you’re the problem-solver making things move, and you can earn quite a bit.

23. Aerospace Engineering – $90,000

Aerospace engineering takes you to the skies and beyond, designing aircraft and spacecraft. It’s a blend of high-flying innovation and precision engineering.

24. Civil Engineering – $78,000

Civil engineering focuses on designing and building the infrastructure of our world, from roads to skyscrapers. Professionals in this niche are creating the physical foundations of society, generally in a literal sense.

25. Industrial Engineering – $81,000

Industrial engineering optimizes complex processes and systems to improve efficiency and productivity. You’re the efficiency expert in any manufacturing or service industry.

26. Architectural Engineering – $78,000

Architectural engineering is where design meets functionality, ensuring buildings are not only beautiful but also safe and sustainable. You’re crafting the spaces where life happens.

27. Chemical Engineering – $99,000

Chemical engineering majors embark on a journey where they transform raw materials into valuable products, ranging from fuels to pharmaceuticals. It’s a field that combines innovation with practical application, enhancing everyday life one reaction at a time.

FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING MAJORS

Since money isn’t something that will ever go away, heading into a finance or accounting field offers a respectable amount of career stability with substantial earnings potential. Large enterprises, small businesses, and individuals regularly need financial-related assistance, so a level of demand always exists.

Here is an overview of some finance majors and accounting majors, including average salary data:

28. Accounting – $82,000

Accounting is the language of business, keeping track of finances and ensuring everything adds up. You’re an organization’s financial backbone, ensuring every penny is accounted for properly.

29. Finance – $72,000

A career in finance is about managing money, and it’s a commonly pursued major for those interested in investment banking or similar fields. You’re navigating the complex world of financial markets to grow wealth and ensure financial stability.

30. Actuarial Sciences – $75,000

While the most obvious high-paying career in this niche is being a lawyer, it certainly isn’t the only option. Economists can make a pretty penny as well, and they can technically fall into this category, too.

LAW, CRIMINAL JUSTICE, AND GOVERNMENT MAJORS

While the most obvious high-paying career in this niche is being a lawyer, it certainly isn’t the only option. Economists can also make a pretty penny, and they can technically fall into this category.

Whether your student wants to be a lawyer or play a critical role in government, here are some majors that can help them get there:

31. Political Science – $77,000

Explore the inner workings of political systems and their impact on societies. Your understanding can shape policies and inform governance.

32. Criminal Justice – $60,000

Dive into the legal system, focusing on law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. It’s about maintaining order and ensuring justice by supporting institutions concentrating on those areas.

33. Government – $57,000

Get involved in public service and administration at various levels of government by majoring in the field. Your work supports the structure and function of society.

34. Economics – $83,000

With this major, you’ll analyze the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. Your insights help explain and influence economic policies, consumer trends, and more, explaining how the economy shifts and predicting what’s on the horizon.

HARD SCIENCES MAJORS

While not all hard sciences degrees lead to stellar salaries, some certainly can. Focusing on the right area makes it possible to turn a hard sciences degree into a high-paying career.

Here are some hard sciences majors that are in demand today:

35. Physics – $94,000

Unlock the mysteries of the universe, from the smallest particles to vast galaxies. It’s a path of discovery where theory meets reality.

36. Chemistry – $81,000

Explore the elements and compounds that make up the world around us. Your work can lead to breakthroughs in everything from medicine to materials.

37. Food Science – $71,000

Combine science and engineering to improve food’s safety, taste, and nutritional value. From farm to table, you ensure what we eat is top-notch.

38. Materials Science – $83,000

Investigate and develop materials that change our lives, from superconductors to biomaterials. Your innovations can transform industries.

ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT

Keeping a business, government office or other entity running requires extensive know-how. That’s why administration and management-related majors are lucrative; they give students that critical knowledge.

If your student is interested in running any kind of organization, here are some majors that may get them there:

39. Business Administration – $78,000

Learn the ins and outs of running a business, from management to marketing. It’s the roadmap to leadership in the corporate world.

40. Public Administration – $73,000

Manage public sector and nonprofit organizations, focusing on policy implementation and public service. You’re in the business of making society better.

41. Management Information Systems – $89,000

Acting as an interdisciplinary degree, management information systems majors blend business and technology to improve organizational efficiency through better information management. You’re the bridge between tech and business strategy.

SHOULD I PICK A MAJOR BECAUSE OF THE HIGH PAY?

While looking for a major with a substantial salary isn’t a bad idea, letting pay alone determine what your student studies might not be the smartest move. Ideally, they should choose a career they’ll find intriguing and engaging over the long term. After all, they may be working in the field for 40+ years, so it should be enjoyable or at least interesting.

In most cases, students should balance pay considerations with passion. Encourage your student to think about what they enjoy and then use that as a guide. They can research job options that fall into their preferred niche, allowing them to identify a career path with solid earnings potential that they’ll also like.

Additionally, students may find a lower (though still livable) salary is an option if they can avoid student loan debt. If they have less debt to carry, a reduced pay rate may still allow them to live comfortably. That makes scholarships incredibly powerful, as they could make a lower-paying but passion-fueling career more viable since they help students avoid costly long-term debt.

Ultimately, a career is a multi-decade-spanning part of their lives. While money should be a factor, it isn’t the only important part of the equation. Job satisfaction matters, too, so students should consider that as they explore possible majors and careers.

If you and your student want to learn more about where to find local scholarships and national awards, sign up for our free college scholarship webinar! Visit http://thescholarshipsystem.com/freewebinar to reserve your spot today.