Degrees are valuable. This may seem obvious as you are paying for them. But it goes beyond that, they have the power to affect your income for the rest of your life. Therefore, not all college majors are created equal as some earn a lot of money, and some don’t. I want you to put your time, energy, and money into a degree that will guarantee a job after graduation.
All statistics and information for this article came from the U.S. Bureau Of Labor Statistics. If you want more information on any of the jobs below, you will be able to find it there. My criteria to make the list is, was the job needed to have over 5% job growth and no more than a bachelor’s degree to obtain.
Let’s jump right in. Here are the top 15 jobs and their degrees that will have you on your way to a promising career.
1. Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and information systems managers are also called information technology (IT) managers or IT project managers. They plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They also help determine the information technology goals of an organization and are responsible for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Computer & Informations Systems or a related field, such as Engineering Technologies
- Median Salary: $159,010
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 6%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 509,100
Work Environment:
Most computer and information systems managers work full-time. Some work more than 40 hours per week.
How to Become a Computer and Information Systems Manager:
Typically, candidates need a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science and related work experience. Many computer and information systems managers also have a graduate degree.
Pay:
The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $159,010 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 48,500 openings for computer and information systems managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
2. Registered Nursing
Registered nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, and educate patients and the public about various health conditions. Additionally, RNs provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families.
- Degree Required: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
- Median Salary: $77,600
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 6%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 3,130,600
Work Environment:
Registered nurses work in hospitals, physician’s offices, home healthcare services, and nursing care facilities. RNs may also work in outpatient clinics and schools.
How to Become a Registered Nurse:
Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor’s degree in nursing, an associate’s degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program. Registered nurses must be licensed.
Pay:
The median annual wage for registered nurses was $77,600 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 203,200 openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
3. Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers
Software developers create computer applications that allow users to do specific tasks and the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks. While software quality assurance analysts and testers design and execute software tests to identify problems and learn how the software works.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Computer & Information Technology or a related field, such as Engineering or Mathematics
- Median Salary: $109,00
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 25%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 1,622,200
Work Environment:
Many software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers work in computer systems design and related services, in manufacturing, or for software publishers. They often work in offices and on teams with other software developers or quality assurance analysts and testers.
How to Become a Software Developer, Quality Assurance Analyst, or Tester:
Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field. However, some employers prefer to hire developers who have a master’s degree.
Pay:
The median annual wage for software developers was $120,730 in May 2021.
The median annual wage for software quality assurance analysts and testers was $98,220 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 25 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 162,900 openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
4. Industrial Engineers
Industrial engineers find ways to eliminate wastefulness in production processes. They devise efficient systems that integrate workers, machines, materials, information, and energy to make a product or provide a service.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Industrial Engineering or Industrial Engineering Technologies
- Median Salary: $95,300
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 10%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 301,000
Work Environment:
Depending on their tasks, industrial engineers work either in offices or in the settings they are trying to improve. For example, when observing problems, they may watch workers assembling parts in a factory. When solving problems, they may be in an office at a computer, looking at data that they or others have collected.
How to Become an Industrial Engineer:
Industrial engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related field, such as mechanical or electrical engineering or industrial engineering technologies.
Pay:
The median annual wage for industrial engineers was $95,300 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of industrial engineers is projected to grow 10 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 22,400 openings for industrial engineers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
5. Logisticians / Supply Chain Management
Logisticians analyze and coordinate an organization’s supply chain—the system that moves a product from supplier to consumer. They manage the entire life cycle of a product which includes how a product is acquired, allocated, and delivered.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Median Salary: $77,030
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 28%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 195,000
Work Environment:
Logisticians work in nearly every industry. The job can be stressful because logistical work is fast-paced. Most logisticians work full-time during regular business hours.
How to Become a Logistician:
A bachelor’s degree is typically required to enter the occupation, although an associate’s degree may be sufficient for some logistician jobs.
Pay:
The median annual wage for logisticians was $77,030 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of logisticians is projected to grow 28 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 24,800 openings for logisticians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
6. Market Research Analysts
Market research analysts study consumer preferences, business conditions, and other factors to assess potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, as well as who will buy them, and at what price.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Market Research or a related Business, Communications, or Social Science field
- Median Salary: $63,920
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 19%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 792,500
Work Environment:
Because most industries use market research, these analysts are employed throughout the economy. Most analysts work full-time during regular business hours.
How to Become a Market Research Analyst:
Market research analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree. However, some employers require or prefer that job candidates have a master’s degree.
Pay:
The median annual wage for market research analysts was $63,920 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of market research analysts is projected to grow 19 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 99,800 openings for market research analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
7. Accountant And Auditors
Accountants and auditors prepare and examine financial records, identify potential areas of opportunity and risk, and provide solutions for businesses and individuals. They ensure that financial records are accurate, that financial and data risks are evaluated, and that taxes are paid properly. They also assess financial operations and work to help ensure that organizations run efficiently.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Accounting
- Median Salary: $77,250
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 6%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 1,449,800
Work Environment:
Most accountants and auditors work full-time. Overtime hours are typical at certain periods of the year, such as for quarterly audits or during tax season.
How to Become an Accountant or Auditor:
A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field is typically required to become an accountant or auditor. Completing certification in a specific field of accounting, such as becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), may improve job prospects.
Pay:
The median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $77,250 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 136,400 openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
8. Construction Managers
Construction managers plan, coordinate, budget, and supervise construction projects from start to finish.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Construction, Business, Engineering, or a related field
- Median Salary: $98,890
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 8%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 478,500
Work Environment:
Construction managers may have a main office but spend most of their time in a field office onsite, where they monitor projects and make decisions about construction activities. Their schedules may vary.
How to Become a Construction Manager:
Construction managers typically need a bachelor’s degree, and they learn management techniques through on-the-job training. Large construction firms may prefer to hire candidates who have both construction experience and a bachelor’s degree in a construction-related field.
Pay:
The median annual wage for construction managers was $98,890 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of construction managers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 41,500 openings for construction managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
9. Information Security Analysts /Cybersecurity:
Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Computer & Information Technology or a related field, such as Engineering or Math
- Median Salary: $102,600
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 35%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 163,000
Work Environment:
Most information security analysts work for computer companies, consulting firms, or business and financial companies.
How to Become an Information Security Analyst:
Information security analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree in a computer science field, along with related work experience. Employers may prefer to hire analysts who have professional certification.
Pay:
The median annual wage for information security analysts was $102,600 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 35 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 19,500 openings for information security analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade
10. Medical and Health Services Managers
Medical and health services managers, also called healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. They may manage an entire facility, a specific clinical area or department, or a medical practice for a group of physicians. Medical and health services managers must adapt to changes in healthcare laws, regulations, and technology.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in healthcare and related fields, such as Health Administration, Nursing, or Public Policy and Social Services
- Median Salary: $101,340
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 28%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 480,700
Work Environment:
Most medical and health services managers work in offices in healthcare facilities, including hospitals and nursing homes, and group medical practices.
How to Become a Medical or Health Services Manager:
Most medical and health services managers have at least a bachelor’s degree before entering the field; however, master’s degrees also are common. Prospective managers typically have some work experience in an administrative or clinical role in a hospital or other healthcare facility.
Pay:
The median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $101,340 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 56,600 openings for medical and health services managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
11. Human Resources Managers
Human resources managers plan, coordinate, and direct the administrative functions of an organization. They oversee the recruiting, interviewing, and hiring of new staff; consult with top executives on strategic planning; and serve as a link between an organization’s management and its employees.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Human Resources or another field, such as Business, Communications, or Psychology
- Median Salary: $126,230
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 7%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 174,200
Work Environment:
Human resources managers are employed in nearly every industry. They work in offices, and most work full-time during regular business hours. Some travel to attend professional meetings or to recruit employees.
How to Become a Human Resources Manager:
Candidates typically need a combination of education and several years of related work experience to become human resources managers. Although positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, some require a master’s degree.
Pay:
The median annual wage for human resources managers was $126,230 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of human resources managers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 16,300 openings for human resources managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
12. Actuaries
Actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty. They use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess the risk of potential events, and they help businesses and clients develop policies that minimize the cost of that risk. Actuaries’ work is essential to the insurance industry.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Actuarial Science, Mathematics, or Business
- Median Salary: $105,900
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 21%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 5,900
Work Environment:
Most actuaries work for insurance companies. Although most work full-time in an office setting, some actuaries who work as consultants travel to meet with clients.
How to Become an Actuary:
Actuaries typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation and must pass a series of exams to become certified. They must have a strong background in mathematics, statistics, and business.
Pay:
The median annual wage for actuaries was $105,900 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of actuaries is projected to grow 21 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 2,400 openings for actuaries are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
13. Public Relations Specialists
Public relations specialists create and maintain a positive public image for the individuals, groups, or organizations they represent. They craft media releases and develop social media programs to achieve organizational goals such as shaping public perception of their clients and increase awareness of each client’s work and goals.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Public Relations
- Median Salary: $62,800
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 8%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 22,300
Work Environment:
Public relations specialists work for a variety of organizations, such as schools, media buyers, and professional associations. They usually work in offices, but they also deliver speeches, attend meetings and community activities, and occasionally travel.
How to Become a Public Relations Specialist:
Public relations specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation.
Pay:
The median annual wage for public relations specialists was $62,800 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of public relations specialists is projected to grow 8 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 27,400 openings for public relations specialists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
14. Microbiologists
Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and some types of parasites. They try to understand how these organisms live, grow, and interact with their environments.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Microbiology
- Median Salary: $79,260
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 9%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 20,800
Work Environment:
Microbiologists work in laboratories and offices, where they conduct scientific experiments and analyze the results. Most microbiologists work full-time and keep regular hours.
How to Become a Microbiologist:
Microbiologists typically need a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a related field for entry-level jobs. However, they typically need a Ph.D. to work in research or in colleges and universities.
Pay:
The median annual wage for microbiologists was $79,260 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of microbiologists is projected to grow 9 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 2,000 openings for microbiologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
15. Forensic Science Technicians
Forensic science technicians aid criminal investigations by collecting and analyzing evidence. Many technicians specialize in either crime scene investigation or laboratory analysis.
- Degree Required: Bachelor’s in Forensic Science, a field such as Physical Science or Biology
- Median Salary: $61,930
- Growth Rate: 2021-2031: 11%
- Number of Jobs: 2021: 17,600
Work Environment:
Most laboratory forensic science technicians work during regular business hours. Crime scene investigators may work extended or unusual hours. Additionally, they may travel to crime scenes within their jurisdiction.
How to Become a Forensic Science Technician:
Forensic science technicians typically need at least a bachelor’s degree. On-the-job training is typically required, both for both those who investigate crime scenes and for those who work in labs.
Pay:
The median annual wage for forensic science technicians was $61,930 in May 2021.
Job Outlook:
Employment of forensic science technicians is projected to grow 11 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
About 2,500 openings for forensic science technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Take The Next Step Toward Your Career
Once you decide on what job and major you want these articles will help you pay for college, The Ultimate Guide To Companies That Will Pay For College Tuition Through Tuition Reimbursement and How To Pay For College Without Student Loans.
—Sensei
