They wonder which STEM majors are the most popular and which ones lead to the highest paying careers? According to a recent study, the top three most popular STEM majors are computer science, engineering, and math. In terms of career opportunities and earnings potential, computer science majors topped the list with an average starting salary of $70,000.
Engineering majors came in second with an average starting salary of $68,000, followed by math majors with an average starting salary of $67,000. So if you’re looking to major in a STEM field that will give you the best chance at a high-paying career, these are three of your best bets.
Best STEM Majors With Highest Paying Career 2019
10. Geological Engineering
- Median Salary: $94,040
- Job Growth: 6%
- Number of Jobs: 8,300
This degree uses a combination of sciences, such as chemistry, physics, geology, biology, and engineering basics, to understand the earth’s structure and develop systems for reliable resources. For example, the mining industry often employs geological engineers, developing open-pit and underground mines while supervising construction and devising safe transportation methods for extracted materials.
9. Electrical Engineering
- Median Salary: $95,230
- Job Growth: 0%
- Number of Jobs: 315,900
An electrical engineering degree involves classroom studies, laboratory work, and field activities to develop a strong understanding of how electricity functions and how it can be harnessed on a large and small scale. Electrical engineers may design new uses for electrical power or perform detailed calculations to be used in installing or maintaining electrical systems.
8. Actuarial Science
- Median Salary: $97,070
- Job Growth: 18%
- Number of Jobs: 24,600
- Licensure: CAS or SOA
There are many educational paths to becoming an actuary which analyze financial risk; the most obvious degree choices are actuarial science or finance. These degrees teach students to analyze risk using a combination of science and mathematics. Actuarial science majors are often employed in the insurance industry, but they are also found in scientific research and company management firms.
7. Chemical Engineering
- Median Salary: $97,360
- Job Growth: 2%
- Number of Jobs: 34,300
This broad degree covers the development and design of products that involve chemical and biological changes. Chemical engineers can be applied in producing drugs, food, fuels, household chemicals, and substances used in mechanics. They are often involved in the development of manufacturing processes but can also work on safety and health issues involving chemistry.
6. Software Development
- Median Salary: $100,690
- Job Growth: 17%
- Number of Jobs: 1,114,000
Median earning software developers earn well over $100,000 a year, but even people just out of their STEM major can make a substantial income. A student with a degree in software development will learn how to analyze needs and design computer programs to accomplish specific goals. They may create applications or plan parts or a whole program.
5. Nuclear Science & Engineering
- Median Salary: $102,950
- Job Growth: -4%
- Number of Jobs: 16,800
Positions as a nuclear engineers are generally reserved for professionals with master’s and doctorates. However, you may be able to break into the profession with a bachelor’s degree in nuclear science and engineering. Although the demand for atomic experts may drop over the next decade, there is still a lucrative pay opportunity.
4. Aerospace Engineering
- Median Salary: $107,830
- Job Growth: -2%
- Number of Jobs: 72,500
Students who are proficient in math, physics, and chemistry may be perfectly suited to a degree in aerospace engineering. Students will use both field and class studies to understand the structures and science behind the most advanced spacecraft and airplanes during this education. They will also learn to develop innovations, making them essential to the aerospace industry.
3. Mathematics
- Median Salary: $111,110
- Job Growth: 21%
- Number of Jobs: 3,500
Mathematics is a great major for anyone interested in a STEM career and shows proficiency in algebra, calculus, and other types of math. In addition, mathematicians don’t just hammer out equations; they develop new ways of conducting math, which can be extremely useful for other STEM majors.
2. Computer Engineering
- Median Salary: $111,730
- Job Growth: 3%
- Number of Jobs: 77,700
Computer engineering is a traditional education for people who want to work as computer hardware engineers, one of the high-paying STEM careers available today. Hardware engineers create a wide variety of computer equipment and often test and analyze the hardware they have built. They may also be tasked with updating existing computer hardware or managing the manufacturing of new devices.
1. Petroleum Engineering
- Median Salary: $129,990
- Job Growth: 10%
- Number of Jobs: 35,100
Energy is an essential industry in the 21st century, and while renewable technologies get a lot of attention, the petroleum industry remains an important area for STEM majors. With a degree in petroleum engineering, students learn to design equipment to extract and use oil and gas while considering many economic and environmental factors.
