It’s no secret that college can be expensive, and many students and their families consider potential earning potential when deciding on a major. With that in mind, here are the top five highest paying college majors, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics and Payscale.com:
- Petroleum Engineering: With a median starting salary of $94,000 and a mid-career salary of $172,000, petroleum engineering tops the list as the highest paying college major. Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface.
- Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration: Pharmacists dispense medication and offer expertise on the use of prescriptions. They also advise patients on healthcare options. The median starting salary for this major is $80,000, with a mid-career salary of $124,000.
- Aerospace Engineering: Aerospace engineers design, test, and oversee the manufacture of aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. They also work on the development of new technologies in the field of aviation and space exploration. The median starting salary for this major is $69,000, with a mid-career salary of $116,000.
- Chemical Engineering: Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry and engineering to solve problems in the production of chemicals, fuel, food, and other products. They also develop safety procedures for handling hazardous materials. The median starting salary for this major is $67,000, with a mid-career salary of $108,000.
- Computer Science: The demand for skilled computer professionals is on the rise, and this major is consistently among the highest paying. Computer science graduates can work in a variety of industries, including software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. The median starting salary for this major is $66,000, with a mid-career salary of $114,000.
It’s important to note that while these majors may lead to high-paying careers, they also tend to be more competitive and require a strong foundation in math and science. It’s also worth considering your personal interests and passions when deciding on a major.
In conclusion, if you’re considering a career in a high-paying field, petroleum engineering, pharmacy, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, and computer science are all solid options to consider. However, it’s also important to follow your interests and passions when choosing a major.
