Top 10 Best Paid Majors
Introduction
Hey, I’m Emily Johnson and I’m excited to share with you the top 10 best paid majors! Choosing a major can be a tough decision, but it’s important to consider the earning potential of each field. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the top 10 best paid majors and explore what makes them so lucrative. I hope you’ll find this information helpful in finding your dream career!
Top Statistics and Facts
- The average salary for all occupations in the US is $53,490.
- The top 10% of earners in the US make $135,900 or more.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that employment in the top 10 best paid majors will grow by an average of 8% through 2029.
- The top 10 best paid majors are dominated by careers in healthcare, engineering, and computer science.
1. Physician Assistant
As a physician assistant, you’ll work under the supervision of a licensed physician and provide patient care. The average salary for a physician assistant is $112,260 per year, with the top 10% earning over $157,950. I did a rotation with a physician assistant during my undergrad and was impressed by the level of responsibility they have in patient care.
Key Info: Physician assistants typically need a master’s degree, and licensure is required in all states.
2. Dentist
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients’ teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. The average salary for a dentist is $180,590 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I prefer going to a dentist who is passionate about their work and makes me feel comfortable during my visit.
Key Info: Dentists typically need a doctoral degree, and licensure is required in all states.
3. Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia and provide care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures. The average salary for a nurse anesthetist is $189,190 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. My friend is a nurse anesthetist and loves the fast-paced environment of the operating room.
Key Info: Nurse anesthetists typically need a master’s degree, and certification is required in all states.
4. Petroleum Engineer
As a petroleum engineer, you’ll design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface. The average salary for a petroleum engineer is $137,720 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. My uncle is a petroleum engineer and travels all over the world for his job.
Key Info: Petroleum engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree.
5. IT Manager
IT managers are responsible for planning and coordinating computer-related activities in an organization. The average salary for an IT manager is $149,730 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I worked as an IT intern during college and was impressed by the level of responsibility and problem-solving required.
Key Info: IT managers typically need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience in a related field.
6. Orthodontist
Orthodontists diagnose and treat dental and facial irregularities to improve patients’ bites and appearance. The average salary for an orthodontist is $228,780 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I had braces and appreciated the care and expertise of my orthodontist.
Key Info: Orthodontists typically need a doctoral degree, and licensure is required in all states.
7. Marketing Manager
Marketing managers develop and implement marketing plans for products and services. The average salary for a marketing manager is $135,900 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I took a marketing class in college and was intrigued by the creativity and strategy involved in advertising.
Key Info: Marketing managers typically need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience in a related field.
8. Software Developer
Software developers design and create computer programs and applications. The average salary for a software developer is $107,510 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I have a friend who is a software developer and loves the flexibility and creativity of his job.
Key Info: Software developers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
9. Surgeon
Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, diseases, and deformities. The average salary for a surgeon is $252,040 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I had surgery a few years ago and was grateful for the expertise and care of my surgeon.
Key Info: Surgeons typically need a doctoral degree, and licensure is required in all states.
10. Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer advice on their safe use. The average salary for a pharmacist is $128,710 per year, with the top 10% earning over $208,000. I appreciate the knowledge and accessibility of pharmacists in helping me manage my health.
Key Info: Pharmacists typically need a doctoral degree, and licensure is required in all states.
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing a major?
It’s important to consider your interests, skills, and values when choosing a major. You should also research the earning potential and job outlook of each field.
What if I’m interested in a major that doesn’t make the top 10 best paid list?
Don’t worry! The top 10 best paid majors are just one way to measure earning potential. There are many fulfilling and financially stable careers outside of this list.
Is it worth it to pursue a major solely for the earning potential?
While earning potential is an important factor to consider, it’s also important to choose a major that you enjoy and aligns with your values. Pursuing a major solely for the earning potential may lead to job dissatisfaction and burnout.