It can be challenging for job-seekers to determine the most in-demand degrees in today’s rapidly changing job market and provide the best career opportunities. However, certain college degrees consistently rank high when offering lucrative and secure career paths.
Some of the top degrees to pursue today include STEM fields like computer science, information technology, and engineering; healthcare degrees such as nursing, pharmacy, and medical administration; and business administration degrees specializing in marketing or finance.
By choosing one of these highly sought-after degree programs, you can be sure that you will have access to great career opportunities and a strong job market. So if you’re looking for a degree that will set you up for success in today’s environment, consider one of these top college majors!​
The Best College Degrees for Today’s Job Market 2019
10. Actuarial mathematics
The actuarial mathematics field is booming, with the job market for actuaries projected to grow by 18 percent by 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.1 If you’re interested in a career that offers stability and security, consider earning your degree in actuarial mathematics.
Actuarial mathematics is the study of risk and uncertainty, and actuaries use mathematical models to calculate the probability of future events. They work in various industries, including insurance, healthcare, and financial services.
What can you expect from an actuarial mathematics degree? First and foremost, you’ll gain solid mathematical skills in high demand in today’s job market. You’ll also learn to analyze data, make predictions, and solve problems. These skills are essential for careers in risk management and insurance.
- Starting salary: $58,800
- Mid-career salary: $119,000
- Projected 10-year job growth: 21.9%
9. Aerospace engineering
Aerospace engineering is one of the best college degrees to have today if you’re looking for a job in a high-demand, high-paying field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), aerospace engineering is projected to be one of the fastest-growing fields over the next decade, with a 10% growth rate. And with an average salary of $103,000, aerospace engineering is also one of the highest-paying fields.
If you’re interested in becoming an aerospace engineer, there are a few things you need to know. First, most aerospace engineers have a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field. However, if you want to work for NASA or another major aerospace company, you may need a graduate degree.
- Starting salary: $64,800
- Mid-career salary: $107,000
- Projected 10-year job growth: 11.1%
8. Software engineering
What’s the best college degree for today’s job market? According to U.S. News & World Report, software engineering is one of the top degrees for 2019. With an increasing demand for software engineers, this degree can lead to lucrative career opportunities.
Software engineering is a challenging and rewarding field that requires creativity, analytical thinking, and strong problem-solving skills. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in software engineering, here are some things to keep in mind:
- First, make sure you have strong math and programming skills.
- Second, consider pursuing a degree from a reputable school with a strong computer science program.
- Third, get experience in the field by taking on internships or participating in coding competitions.
- Finally, stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the software engineering industry.
- Starting salary: $62,500
- Mid-career salary: $96,800
- Projected 10-year job growth: 22.7%
7. Finance and economics
To ensure that you are receiving the best education for the current job market, it is vital to consider a full college degree in finance and economics. According to recent studies, the most in-demand degrees for 2019 are business, computer science, health care, and engineering.
Out of these four categories, business and computer science degrees offer the most significant opportunity for employment upon graduation. The field of finance has always been a lucrative one, with jobs in investment banking, financial analysis, and risk management among the most popular.
However, with the current state of the economy, many employers are now looking for candidates with experience in data analytics and digital marketing. With a degree in computer science, you will be able to develop the skills necessary to compete for these positions.
- Starting salary: $55,700
- Mid-career salary: $101,000
- Projected 10-year job growth: 15.5%
6. Management information systems
A college degree is more important than ever in today’s job market. According to U.S. News & World Report, the best degrees for 2019 are management information systems (MIS). MIS graduates are in high demand because they have the skills to manage complex computer systems and processes. MIS graduates can work in various industries, including healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, and retail. They typically have challenging and rewarding jobs, earning salaries above the national median.
If you’re thinking about pursuing a degree in MIS, check out the best colleges for MIS programs. These schools offer top-notch education and career opportunities for their graduates. In addition, making a median annual salary of $85,800.
- Starting salary: $56,800
- Mid-career salary: $96,300
- Projected 10-year job growth: 16%
5. Information security
In today’s job market, information security is one of the most in-demand professions. So if you’re looking for a challenging and lucrative career, a degree in information security may be right for you.
Many different degrees can prepare you for a career in information security. Some of the most popular options include computer science, information technology, and cyber security. However, any degree that focuses on digital security and risk management can provide you with the skills you need to pursue a career in information security.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in information security, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help you do just that.
- Starting salary: $57,100
- Mid-career salary: $86,600
- Projected 10-year job growth: 30.9%
4. Computer science
Computer science is one of the best college degrees for today’s job market. Computer science jobs are projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. And with technology becoming more integral in every industry, computer science skills are in high demand.
So what are the best colleges for studying computer science? According to U.S. News & World Report, the top five schools in the country are the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and Princeton University. But these schools aren’t your only options. Many great colleges offer excellent computer science programs.
- Starting salary: $63,100
- Mid-career salary: $105,000
- Projected 10-year job growth: 15.5%
3. Nursing
More experienced nurse practitioners earn an annual salary of $98,190. So if you’re looking for a high-paying career in high demand, consider nursing. Nursing is the number one occupation in the United States, with more than 3.5 million jobs.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the nursing profession will grow by 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. That’s great news if you’re thinking about a career in nursing. But what are the best college degrees for today’s job market? If you’re looking for a high-paying career in high demand, consider nursing.
Nursing is the number one occupation in the United States, with more than 3.5 million jobs. And the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the nursing profession will grow by 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. In addition, PayScale recently listed this career field as one of the most meaningful jobs.
- Starting salary: $56,600
- Mid-career salary: $73,600
- Projected 10-year job growth: 15.5%
2. Biomedical engineering
As technology advances, so does the need for experts in biomedical engineering. So if you’re looking to start a career in a field that’s growing rapidly and offers many job opportunities, a degree in biomedical engineering may be the perfect choice for you.
Biomedical engineering applies engineering principles and design concepts to medicine and biology. It covers various disciplines, including biomechanics, biomaterials, bioelectricity, biochemistry, and biotechnology.
A degree in biomedical engineering can lead to various exciting careers in the medical industry. Some of the most common jobs include medical device design engineer, research scientist, quality control inspector, and sales representative. The best colleges for studying biomedical engineering can be found all over the country.
- Starting salary: $60,900
- Mid-career salary: $96,400
- Projected 10-year job growth: 25.7%
1. Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is one of the oldest and most important disciplines of engineering. Civil engineers design, build and maintain the physical infrastructure of our society, everything from bridges and roads to water systems and sewer lines.
Due to the critical nature of their work, the job market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. Here are some of the best college degrees for aspiring civil engineers today:
- Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. This is the traditional degree for civil engineers, and it will give you a strong foundation in all aspects of the field.
- Master’s degree in engineering management or construction management. A master’s degree can be helpful if you want to move into a management or supervisory role later in your career.
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture.
- Starting salary: $55,600
- Mid-career salary: $94,500
- Projected 10-year job growth: 17.2%
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