When it comes to planning for the future, few decisions are as pivotal — or as underestimated — as choosing a college major.
At first glance, picking a major often feels like an emotional or interest-driven choice. After all, shouldn’t you study what you love? The answer is yes — but with an important caveat: your major can have a significant impact on your financial opportunities for decades to come.
The chart above highlights the wide range of median earnings depending on degree field. A few key insights stand out:
1. STEM Degrees Dominate Earnings Potential
Degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields clearly lead the way when it comes to median income. Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Mechanical Engineering graduates earn close to or above six figures, often right out of school — and the gap tends to widen over time as these skill sets remain in high demand.
This isn’t just a short-term trend; it’s the result of global shifts toward technology, infrastructure development, and data-driven industries.
2. Business Degrees Provide Flexibility and Solid Earnings
Majors such as Finance, Accounting, and Marketing offer strong median earnings and significant career flexibility. Graduates can find opportunities across industries, climb into management, or leverage their skills into entrepreneurship. While the median earnings aren’t as high as STEM fields, they tend to outpace many others, making business degrees a strong option for those seeking both income and versatility.
3. Arts, Education, and Humanities Offer Different Rewards
At the other end of the spectrum, majors like Fine Arts, Elementary Education, and English Literature show lower median earnings. That doesn’t mean these fields aren’t valuable — they are critical to society and deeply rewarding in many non-financial ways. However, it does mean students pursuing these paths should plan carefully for debt repayment, savings strategies, and future financial goals.
Choosing these fields may require additional financial planning or supplemental income strategies to maintain long-term financial security.
4. Why This Matters: Pair Passion With Planning
Ultimately, the right major should reflect both passion and a plan.
If a student is deeply passionate about a lower-earning field, that’s absolutely valid — but understanding the financial realities allows them (and their families) to make smarter decisions around budgeting, student loans, and future career steps.
Financial literacy shouldn’t start after graduation. It should begin before the tuition bills start arriving.
Education is a powerful investment. Like any investment, the goal should be to balance risk, reward, and personal purpose. The more intentional you are today, the more options you will have tomorrow.