I hear it all the time—students want to know which majors have a higher average salary than the average for college graduates. And honestly, I get it. College costs a lot, so going for one of the best college majors for a high salary just makes sense.
From what I’ve seen, knowing which fields actually pay well can help you make a smarter choice about your college plans.
Top 10 College Majors with the Highest Starting Salary in 2025
From my experience helping students, I’ve seen specific majors consistently come out on top when we look at career growth and paychecks. If you check any list of college majors ranked by salary, these fields almost always grab the top spots.
So, here’s my take on which majors are leading the way right now, along with some advice on why they’re worth your attention.
1. Engineering
Engineering fields remain among the top choices for high paychecks and career growth.
Based on the latest data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York (New York Fed), chemical engineering and computer engineering majors both start around $80,000, while electrical engineering averages about $78,000.
Here’s a quick look at how different engineering majors stack up:
- Chemical engineering majors – High demand in manufacturing and energy sectors.
- Aerospace engineering majors – Exciting roles in aviation, defense, and space, with strong starting salaries.
- Mechanical engineering – A versatile degree with career options in design, manufacturing, and robotics.
- Civil engineering – Steady demand for infrastructure projects.
I’ve seen students who enroll in engineering programs often land internships quickly, which makes finding a high-paying job after graduation much easier.
2. Computer Science and IT
If you’re into coding, building apps, or diving into cybersecurity, computer science majors are a no-brainer.
According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the median early-career salary for computer science majors is around $80,000, which puts them near the top of college majors by salary.
By the way, students who mix strong problem-solving skills with coding know-how often land offers even before finishing their bachelor’s degree. Plus, with the tech industry booming, remote jobs and flexible hours are becoming the standard. This is one of the most popular majors due to its high pay and job security.
3. Business and Finance
Business majors might not start as high as engineering, but the growth potential for recent graduates is massive. In corporate finance, consulting, or banking, salaries rise quickly, especially if you pursue an MBA.
In fact, I’ve seen business grads double their starting salary within a few years of getting their first college degree.
4. Nursing and Healthcare Majors
Healthcare is one of those career paths that’s always in demand—people will always need medical care, no matter what’s happening in the world. Nursing, physician assistant programs, and even certain chemistry majors connected to healthcare will guarantee a good salary right after graduation.
Honestly, this field is one of the most stable and recession-proof options. And if you genuinely enjoy helping people, the work can be very enjoyable.
5. Data Science and Statistics
Data is everywhere across tech, finance, healthcare, and so many other industries, and companies are willing to pay big bucks for people who can actually make sense of it.
I’ve seen data science majors snag some of the highest salaries right out of school, usually starting around $70,000–80,000.
A couple of years in, it’s not unusual to see graduates earning six figures. So, this field is one of the clear winners.
6. Economics
Economics is one of those majors that offers numerous job options immediately after college, as it is a highly flexible field of study. It’s basically the middle ground between business and policy, which makes it both practical and analytical.
Economics majors report a median early-career salary of around $70,000, according to the New York Fed.
Many of my students with economics degrees have landed roles in finance, consulting, or government jobs, and the starting salaries are solid. This major can also be a launchpad for law school or an MBA, which can push your earning power even higher.
7. Information Systems
This major blends the tech side of computer science with the business side of management, which makes grads incredibly valuable.
The New York Fed data shows median early-career salaries in this field hover around $65,000–70,000, and pursuing an advanced degree can increase that number.
From what I’ve seen, students with information systems and management skills have no trouble finding great job options right after college.
8. Math and Applied Mathematics
This is another STEM major with high demand. With careers in actuarial science, data analysis, finance, or research, math graduates often step right into high-paying jobs.
Math majors start with a median salary of around $68,000–70,000, and that’s before factoring in advanced degrees or certifications.
The median early-career salary is impressive, and with an advanced degree, it’s even better. I’ve seen math grads use their quantitative skills to quickly move up the ladder when they know how to apply their skills in finance or data-heavy roles.
9. Marketing and Management Information Systems (MIS)
Marketing has changed so much with digital trends, and employers now look for people who can understand data-driven campaigns.
Finance majors also tend to work closely with MIS experts, which makes this combo even more valuable in the job market.
MIS majors typically start around $60,000–65,000, but salaries rise fast, especially when combined with finance or IT roles. I’ve seen students in these majors land jobs at big-name companies and startups with pay that surprises them.
10. Architecture and Design with Tech Specializations
Architecture on its own might not be known for the highest salaries, but pairing it with tech skills like CAD, 3D modeling, or even VR design changes everything. These specializations are becoming the norm, and companies are willing to pay extra for graduates who can mix creativity with technical know-how.
As a result, students who add these tools to their skill set stand out and open the door to better-paying job options right after college.
Which Majors Have a Higher Average Salary Than the Average for College Graduates?
Most grads start out making somewhere in the mid-$60,000s, but some majors completely blow past that number right after college.
STEM fields—especially engineering and computer science—are always at the top when it comes to the best college majors for high salary. Finance majors and business-related degrees also do well, with plenty of room to grow as you move up in your career.
And thanks to data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, we’ve got actual median salary numbers to back it up:
| Major | Median Early-Career Salary | Median Mid-Career Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Engineering | $80,000 | $120,000 |
| Computer Engineering | $80,000 | $122,000 |
| Computer Science | $80,000 | $115,000 |
| Electrical Engineering | $78,000 | $120,000 |
| Industrial Engineering | $76,000 | $108,000 |
| Mechanical Engineering | $75,000 | $112,000 |
| Civil Engineering | $71,000 | $105,000 |
| Finance & Business Majors | $70,000 | ~$100,000 |
| Mathematics | $69,000 | $106,000 |
| Physics | $68,000 | $103,000 |
It’s easy to see why engineering majors sit at the top of the salary charts—chemical engineering and computer engineering are both hitting the $80K mark right out of the gate. Computer science is right up there too, making it one of the highest paying college majors average salary options for new grads.
So, engineering and computer science consistently top the college majors salary rankings. Still, I always advise my students not to choose an option solely for the paycheck. The real win is finding something you actually enjoy while still landing a good salary.
Final Tips for Choosing a Major
Picking a major can feel like a big deal, but trust me, it’s not as scary as it seems. From what I’ve seen with my students, the best decision comes when you balance job satisfaction with financial goals.
Sure, we all want good pay, but choosing something you hate just because it’s on the list of high-paying careers isn’t worth it.
While STEM fields and engineering students usually see solid salaries right out of college, some fields—like liberal arts or certain foreign language majors—often end up on the list of lowest-paying majors. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t follow your passion, but you should know what to expect.
Looking at college majors by salary is a smart first step, and to make an informed choice, keep these tips in mind:
- Play to your strengths. Pick a major you’re naturally good at—it’ll pay off in the long run.
- Check median salaries and growth. Some jobs take time to reach their full potential.
- Think about stability. Fields like healthcare and technology tend to remain stable.
- Don’t forget the future. An advanced degree can boost your earning potential.
Still stuck? Talking to one of the best college admission consultants can give you personalized advice and help you figure out a major that’s best for you.