What Are the Highest and Lowest Paying Majors? Graduation Reality Check

As diplomas are handed out and caps are tossed in the air, the reality of the job market hits hard for many college graduates. One key factor that often determines early financial stability? Your college major.

Let’s take a look at what degrees are bringing in the highest salaries—and which ones leave grads struggling to pay off those student loans.



💰 The Highest Paying College Majors

The highest-earning majors are dominated by STEM fields—especially engineering and computer science. These majors often lead to jobs in high-demand industries with lucrative entry-level salaries and long-term growth potential.

Major

Early Career Median Salary

Petroleum Engineering $95,000+

Computer Science $85,000+

Electrical Engineering $80,000+

Computer Engineering $84,000+

Aerospace Engineering $82,000+

Operations Research $78,000+

Actuarial Science $77,000+

Systems Engineering $79,000+

Finance $70,000+

Information Sciences $75,000+

💡 Notably, computer science majors often graduate into roles that don’t require further certification, unlike some professions such as law or medicine—giving them a head start financially.

🧑‍🎨 The Lowest Paying College Majors

At the other end of the spectrum are majors tied to arts, education, and social services. These fields often attract passionate individuals committed to making a difference—but that passion doesn’t always translate into a high paycheck.

Major

Early Career Median Salary

Early Childhood Education $38,000

Social Work $41,000

Performing Arts $40,000

Psychology $42,000

Theology & Religious Studies $39,000

Fine Arts $42,000

Education (General) $40,000

Anthropology $43,000

English Literature $44,000

Music $41,000

💡 Many of these professions require graduate school or additional certification to move into higher-paying roles.

🔍 So What Should Students Do?

Passion vs. Paycheck has always been a debate. But in today’s world of rising costs, some students are choosing to major in a field with solid earnings potential while minoring in a passion or pursuing it through hobbies, side gigs, or future graduate studies.

A few tips:

Pair a low-earning major with a marketable skill like data analytics or coding. Look into regional salary differences — a teacher in New York may earn far more than one in Mississippi. Pursue internships early — real-world experience matters more than ever.

💡 Final Thoughts

Choosing a college major shouldn’t be only about money, but ignoring the financial implications is a mistake many regret later. The good news? Career paths are no longer as linear as they once were. With the rise of online learning, career switching, and entrepreneurial opportunities, your major is a starting point—not your final destination

Access original article at: https://conta.cc/4l0WwKX