In today’s job market, choosing the right college major is more important than ever. The right degree gives you skills and boosts your earning potential and career prospects. Research shows that certain degrees are consistently the most useful for the future, as they align with industry demands and the evolving economic landscape. For example, STEM fields like Engineering and Computer Science are highlighted for job growth and high pay. Healthcare and Business Management degrees are in demand as industries adapt to new challenges and technology.
In this article, we will take a deeper look at the 21 most useful degrees you can enrol in today, with information on growth projection, salaries, and career prospects. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that matches your aspirations and the future job market.
Important Facts about the Most Promising Majors
Now, let’s get into the nitty gritty of these top degrees. Understanding the details of each field will give you a heads-up on what to expect as you start your educational journey and career.
Here’s what you should know:
- Degrees in Computer Science and Healthcare Administration lead to high-demand careers like software development and medical health services management.
- STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) degrees are frequently ranked among the top majors for prospective high-paying employment.
- The value of a college degree goes beyond the first year earnings; it also includes long-term wage growth throughout a career.
- A Computer Science degree can get you a median salary of $90,000 a year. That’s the financial benefit of pursuing high-demand majors.
- Online programs for these majors give you the flexibility and accessibility to balance your studies with personal commitments while preparing for high-paying careers.
- Some bachelor’s degrees in Humanities and Social Sciences may not result in a high starting salary, but they can be a good starting point to pursue graduate degrees and higher-paying careers.
Top Degrees in Demand for the Future - An Overview
As we look to the future, it is critical to determine which degrees will provide the most opportunities in an evolving job market. In this section, we provide an overview of the most in demand degrees, focusing on fields that offer career growth and financial stability. This will give us a foundation for a deeper dive into the majors that will be ahead.
No. | Majors | Average Salary | Growth Projection |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Management Information Systems | $164,070 | 15% |
2. | Physics | $139,220 | 5% |
3. | Marketing | $138,730 | 6% |
4. | Computer Science | $136,620 | 23% |
5. | Computer Engineering | $132,360 | 5% |
6. | Chemical Engineering | $122,910 | 10% |
7. | Economics | $113,940 | 6% |
8. | Electronics Engineering | $104,610 | 5% |
9. | Information Technology | $100,530 | 13% |
10. | Mathematics | $99,960 | 30% |
11. | Statistics | $99,960 | 30% |
12. | Biomedical Engineering | $99,550 | 5% |
13. | Industrial Engineering | $96,350 | 12% |
14. | Mechanical Engineering | $96,310 | 10% |
15. | Finance | $96,220 | 8% |
16. | Civil Engineering | $89,940 | 5% |
17. | Nursing | $81,220 | 6% |
18. | Accounting | $78,000 | 4% |
19. | Business Administration | $76,000 | 8% |
20. | Social Science | $74,330 | 8% |
21. | Human Resources | $64,240 | 6% |
Most Useful Degrees for the Future
Now let’s get to the best college majors that will be leading the way. Here we’ll break down the most useful degrees to go for, and the fields that offer good job opportunities, high salaries and strong growth.
Management Information Systems
Projected Growth by 2032 | 15% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $164,070 |
Career Opportunities | · Software Developer · Computer Systems Analysts · IT Consultants · Database Administrator · Application Developers · Computer Systems Analyst · Computer Programmer |
Management Information Systems (MIS) is one of the most promising majors, combining business and technology, and teaching you how to manage information systems within organizations. This major is perfect for those interested in tech strategy and business solutions.
Physics
Projected Growth by 2032 | 5% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $139,220 |
Career Opportunities | · Medical Physicists · Biophysicists · Optical Engineers · Astronomer · Physicist · Environmental Scientists · Mechanical Engineer · Aerospace Engineers |
Physics is among good degrees for the future, studying matter and energy through traditional and modern theoretical frameworks. A big part of the education is hands-on experimentation in labs, where students study topics such as applied physics for science and engineering, waves and optics, philosophy of science, and thermodynamics. This combination of theory and practice gives students a broad understanding of physical principles.
Marketing
Projected Growth by 2032 | 6% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $138,730 |
Career Opportunities | · Product Managers · Market Research Analysts · Marketing Analysts · Advertising Managers |
Marketing degrees prepare students for careers in advertising, brand management, and digital marketing. The curriculum includes topics such as customer behavior, marketing strategy, market research, and communication techniques. As businesses focus more on customer engagement and brand strategy, the demand for marketing professionals is growing, making it one of the most useful degrees for the future.
Computer Science
Projected Growth by 2032 | 23% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $136,620 |
Career Opportunities | · Security Analysts · Computer Hardware Engineers · Database Administrators · Software Administrators · Network Architects · Systems Analysts · Cybersecurity Specialists · Data Scientists · Web Developers |
A Computer Science degree is considered a top choice in the most employable degrees. Students in this field build problem-solving abilities through courses in computer ethics, databases, and computing theory. They also get experience in areas like digital storytelling, which broadens their understanding of technology’s role in different industries. Computer Science majors are typically analytical thinkers equipped to handle complex problems in today’s tech world.
As you get into computer science, consider not only the skills and knowledge you’ll get but also the environment you’ll be in. A good living space can make a big difference in your learning experience and overall success in this fast-paced field. Visit uhomes.com to find the right place to live for your studies. With a lot of different student housing choices, you can expect a balance between university living and academic pursuit.
Computer Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 5% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $132,360 |
Career Opportunities | · Hardware Engineer · Big Data Engineers · Computer Network Architects · Blockchain Developers · Front-End Developer · Back-End Developer · Machine Learning Engineers |
Computer Engineering is about designing and building both computer systems and hardware. As one of the best degrees to get 2024, it teaches you how to evaluate, design and implement different software and hardware systems using math, computer science and physics.
Computer engineering students get a broad skill set that combines math, chemistry, physics and biology with engineering economics, electrical circuits, computing system structures, algorithms and programming. This all-round education prepares you to take on the tough challenges in the field.
Chemical Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 10% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $112,100 |
Career Opportunities | · Materials Scientist · Manufacturing Production Technician · Materials Engineer · Chemical Plant Operator · Food Engineer · Pharmaceutical Manufacturer · Chemist |
Chemical Engineering is a major that teaches students chemistry, biology and physics and how to apply them to solve societal problems. This one of most useful college degrees is about producing chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and materials.
Economics
Projected Growth by 2032 | 6% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $113,940 |
Career Opportunities | · Financial Analyst · Data Analysts · Actuary · Compensation and Benefits Managers · Market Research Analyst · Market Research Analysts · Financial Risk Analysts |
An Economics degree teaches you about financial systems, markets and policies. Economics majors use mathematical techniques and data analysis to study economic principles and theories that are used to forecast market trends. Their subjects include macro & micro economics and business statistics.
Electronics Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 5% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $104,610 |
Career Opportunities | · Machine Learning Engineers · Clinical Technologists · Innovators |
Electronics Engineering is taken as one of the most promising degrees because it is a good choice for the future, especially for those who are interested in technology. This degree trains professionals who can work with engineers and scientists in team environments. Electronics Engineering students design and develop electronic devices that are vital to broadcasting and communication networks.
Information Technology
Projected Growth by 2032 | 13% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $100,530 |
Career Opportunities | · Network Administrator · Systems Analyst · Computer Network Architect · Computer Network Support Specialist · Application Developer · Database Administrator (DBA) |
Information Technology (IT) is one of the most valuable university degrees that focuses on the use of computers, networking, and other devices to create, store, process, exchange, and secure electronic data. IT students gain skills in developing interactive programs, creating custom database solutions, and using query languages like SQL and QBE to manipulate data within software applications. This field prepares graduates for the growing demand for tech professionals in a data-driven world.
Mathematics
Projected Growth by 2032 | 30% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $99,960 |
Career Opportunities | · Mathematician · Data Scientists · Actuaries · Statistician · Market Research Analysts |
Math is recognized as a leading option among the most in demand degrees today, as private companies and governments have access to vast amounts of data that need to be analyzed and interpreted. Professionals who can make sense of this data are in high demand. The problem solving, logical thinking, communication and analytical skills developed through a math degree are transferable across many industries, opening the door to many lucrative career opportunities.
Statistics
Projected Growth by 2032 | 30% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $99,960 |
Career Opportunities | · Business Analysts · Economists · Data Analyst · Statistician · Business Consultant · Financial Analysts |
A Statistics major focuses on data analysis and mathematics. Statistics students can specialize in one of five areas: computational statistics, applied statistics, data science, general statistics or machine learning. This range of specializations allows them to focus their studies on their area of interest and career goals within the broad field of data analysis.
Biomedical Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 5% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $99,550 |
Career Opportunities | · Medical Device Developer · Genetic Engineers · Rehabilitation Engineers · Biomedical Engineering Manager · Biomedical Research Engineers · Biomechanical Engineers · Bioengineering Associate |
One of the best college degrees for the future is Biomedical Engineering, a field that combines engineering with medical science. This growing major is perfect for those who want to develop medical devices and technologies that improve patient care and treatment outcomes. Biomedical engineering offers exciting opportunities for innovation in healthcare and is well-suited for students looking to make a tangible impact in the medical field.
Industrial Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 12% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $96,350 |
Career Opportunities | · Process Engineers · Cost Estimator · Industrial Mechanic · Management Analysts · Manufacturing Technician · Supply Chain Analysts · Process Engineer · Energy Efficiency Engineer |
Industrial Engineering is among the best majors for jobs that optimize production processes and systems by minimizing waste and increasing efficiency. Industrial engineering students learn to integrate engineering, science, and math principles to improve complex systems and operations. Throughout their studies, they get hands-on experience that prepares them to tackle real-world problems in the field.
Mechanical Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 10% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $96,310 |
Career Opportunities | · Industrial Engineer · Mechanical Engineer · Aerospace Engineer |
Mechanical Engineers design, develop and maintain machinery and mechanical systems in industries such as manufacturing, automotive and aerospace. Mechanical engineering students follow a tough curriculum that focuses on quantitative principles. They study topics such as mechatronics, computational simulation, solid & fluid dynamics, along with biomechanical engineering, which helps them develop a broad skill set applicable to various fields. Consequently, ME graduates are well-equipped to tackle diverse engineering challenges.
Finance
Projected Growth by 2032 | 8% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $96,220 |
Career Opportunities | · Financial Managers · Budget Analysts · Actuaries · Credit Analysts · Financial Analyst · Accounting Manager · Operations Controller |
Finance degrees are the most beneficial degrees, educating students for professions in financial analysis, investment banking, and corporate finance. The curriculum covers financial analysis, economics, portfolio management, and statistics, so students have a broad skill set. With a strong emphasis on analytical and problem-solving skills, finance majors are well-positioned for high-level positions and can expect above-average salaries.
Civil Engineering
Projected Growth by 2032 | 5% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $89,940 |
Career Opportunities | · Structural Engineers · CAD Technician · Construction Managers · Building Engineer · Environmental Engineers · Urban Planners · Surveyor |
Civil Engineering is considered among the most worthwhile degrees. It prepares professionals to build, design, supervise, and maintain critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings. Students studying civil engineering learn to design tunnels, highways, buildings, bridges, airports, and foundations, as well as water and air purification systems. With a strong focus on environmental restoration, protection, and enhancement, this field prepares graduates to tackle both structural and environmental challenges in modern infrastructure.
Nursing
Projected Growth by 2032 | 6% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $81,220 |
Career Opportunities | · Emergency Room Nurse · Nurse Practitioners or Educators · Pediatric Nurse · Cardiology Nurse |
Nursing is a growing career because of the increased demand for healthcare. At the heart of a nursing major is patient care, where students learn the knowledge and skills to care for patients of all ages and all stages of health and illness. Once they graduate, nursing students must pass state licensure examinations to become registered nurses and then enter this amazing profession.
Accounting
Projected Growth by 2032 | 4% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $78,000 |
Career Opportunities | · Accounting Clerk · Financial Planner · Financial Adviser · Financial Modeler · Accounting Assistant · Business Analyst · Account Manager · Accountant · Actuary · Investment Adviser |
Accounting is among the most valuable degrees that manage financial records, ensure business compliance, and advise on financial strategy. Accounting students develop a deep understanding of accounting principles while gaining expertise in managing financial records and analyzing their impact on business. This is a stable and high-demand field with excellent career opportunities, especially if you become a CPA (Certified Public Accountant).
Business Administration
Projected Growth by 2032 | 8% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $76,000 |
Career Opportunities | · Operations Managers · Business Operations Specialists · Management Analysts · General Managers · Administrative Supervisor · Business Manager · Financial Managers · Human Resource Managers |
One of the most promising degrees is business administration, that offers an excellent footing into leadership and management roles in different sectors. This versatile major offers students skills in project management, research methodologies, strategy development, accurate forecasting, entrepreneurship and organizational behavior. If you have a talent for leadership, organization, and strategic thinking, a Business Administration degree could be an ideal choice for your career path.
Social Science
Projected Growth by 2032 | 8% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $74,330 |
Career Opportunities | · Economists And Sociologists · Management Analysts · Public Relations Specialists · Fundraisers · Sociologists · Psychologists · Lawyers · Data Analysts · Social Work Professionals and Counselors · Market Research Analyst |
Social Science degrees include sociology, psychology and anthropology, which give students valuable insights into human behavior and societal structures. Social Science majors develop a broad skill set that is highly marketable to employers, including strong oral and written communication, critical thinking, teamwork and interpersonal skills. Students also learn technical skills, analytical reasoning, organizational and problem-solving skills, so they are well positioned for many career paths.
Human Resources
Projected Growth by 2032 | 6% |
---|---|
Median Salary | $64,240 |
Career Opportunities | · HR Generalists · Employee Relations Manager · Benefits Specialists · Recruitment Specialist |
HR professionals are responsible for facilitating the needs that pertain to everything related to hiring, training, and retaining talent on board. HR degree holders are well-prepared for careers in employee relations, and talent management. The curriculum includes organizational development, human resource management, labor practices, and principles of recruitment and selection strategies. These curriculum components provide students with comprehensive exposure to all the essential aspects needed for a successful career in HR.
Final Wrap-up
In conclusion, choosing the most useful degrees that meet industry demand and also your personal interest is key to future success. The degrees mentioned in this article have job security, career advancement, and financial stability. You can also As you embark on this exciting academic journey, it’s important to make sure your living environment supports your learning experience.
To help create a comfortable and conducive atmosphere for your studies, consider exploring university accommodation options through uhomes.com. With the right major and living environment, you’ll be set for a bright future.
Read more about the most useless degrees that you should avoid, maximizing the return on investment!
FAQs about Most Beneficial Degrees
STEM degrees provide students with analytical, critical thinking, and technical abilities that are in high demand across a wide range of businesses. That’s why STEM degrees are regarded as the greatest for the future.
Engineering stands out as the most lucrative college major, with graduates earning salaries ranging from $65,000 to $80,000 immediately after completing their degree.
Yes, many students change their major when they realize their initial major isn’t the best fit for them. We recommend talking to your academic advisor or career counselor who can help you navigate the process of finding a major that aligns with your interests and long term goals.