Choosing a college major may be a shot in the dark. College is costly, loans add up, and the question lingering on everyone’s mind is: Will this degree even pay off? The fact is, all college majors are not created equal when it comes to return on investment (ROI).
Although other professions like social science or performing arts can be fulfilling, they are not particularly accompanied by fat checks. As an alternative, degrees in majors aligned with industries that have demand that is booming demand can recoup their cost in less than three years.
Here are the top five degrees that provide the most bang for your buck in tuition costs.
Engineering: Big pay for big skills
Engineering is the gold standard with an astounding 326.6% ROI in five years. That’s over three times they put into school, earned back after only five years.
Why so wonderful? Engineers are becoming star players needed. In 2023, one out of every three new engineering jobs went unfilled because there were not enough qualified people around. And the experts think that by 2031 there will be more expansion.
From bridge building to green energy schemes, engineers have got the skills employers just can’t get enough of. If mathematics and problem-solving are your forte, this might be your golden ticket.
Computer science & IT: coding your way to cash
In spite of fears about AI snatching jobs, computer science and IT graduates are sought after more than ever before. From cyber security to cloud computing, companies are clamoring for technical know-how.
And indeed, 87% of technology professionals report that it is hard to locate skilled people to recruit. That is correct, graduates can write their own ticket. With a five-year ROI of 310.3%, it’s one of the smartest investments you can make.
And with careers in tech, there is flexibility. Many positions are telecommute-friendly, so you can work from anywhere there is Wi-Fi. Not bad for a degree focused on tomorrow.
Nursing: Care that pays off
Nursing is not a calling—it’s also a money-savvy option. With a five-year return on investment of 280.9%, it’s clear that compassion can pay the mortgage as well.
There are already nearly 6 million nurses short globally, and the number is expected to grow. With such need comes employment security, steady paychecks, and the capacity to create real change in people’s lives.
Whether you’re working in hospitals, clinics, or community health, nursing offers both stability and purpose.
Accounting: Crunching numbers for big returns
Think accounting sounds boring? Think again. Accountants are in short supply, and that makes them more valuable than ever.
The average age of accounting firm partners is in the 50s, and fewer students are choosing this major. This talent gap means young accountants are stepping into strong opportunities right away.
With an ROI of 261.3% over five years, accounting is a wise and healthy choice. And it leads to careers in finance, business, and even government service as well.
Biochemistry: Science that pays
Science geniuses will enjoy secure financial returns in biochemistry. Careers in the field are growing more than the average rate of around 9% through 2033.
With a five-year 248.2% return on investment, biochemistry majors are able to pay off school sooner than most. From lab spaces to biotech firms, doors are opening because science and technology keep changing our world.
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Why this matters
Going to college is expensive, and no one wants to graduate to struggle paying off loans. Selecting a major that leads to better job prospects and higher paychecks can be the game-changer.
If being financially secure is on your wish list, consider one of the following five majors. They don’t only give you a job—they give you a career that grows in value as the years go by.
So do some thinking outside the classroom before choosing your major. Ask yourself: Will this degree pay me back? For engineering, computer science, nursing, accounting, and biochemistry majors, the answer is a big, fat “yes.”
