The Best Undergraduate Degrees: Maximizing Career Opportunities
Finding a job is never easy. Earning an honest means of living does not only require you to work hard, but it also filters the worthy ones at the hiring stage through QUALIFICATIONS. One important factor in the qualifications is, of course, the undergraduate degrees you completed.
However, let’s be realistic: some fields promise a more significant job market and pay compared to other fields. This is why choosing your undergraduate degree is a major decision you will have to think through in your life!
The Best College Majors (Subdivided into the Fields of Business, Tech, Engineering, and Healthcare )
In this article, the best undergraduate degree programs are listed here to help you choose which diploma to invest your time, effort, and financial resources in!
The list is subdivided into three major categories based on the fields of Business, Technology, Engineering, and Healthcare.
Engineering-Related Degree Programs
One of the most diverse subsets of fields, engineering programs are great undergraduate degree programs thanks to their massive job prospects and annual pay. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projected occupations related to architecture and engineering are expected to rise by 4% from 2021 to 2031. With a median annual wage of $79,840, you already know engineering college degrees are worth the pursuit.
Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical infrastructure and built environment, including roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and water supply systems. Civil engineers play a vital role in shaping society and improving the quality of life. They contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure, ensure public safety, and address environmental challenges. Civil engineering offers diverse career opportunities, competitive salaries, and the satisfaction of seeing tangible outcomes of one’s work in the form of infrastructure that benefits communities.
According to Glassdoor.com, civil engineers make $91,871 on average per year.
Petroleum Engineering
Petroleum engineering is an undergraduate degree that focuses on the exploration, extraction, and production of oil and gas resources. Due to the high demand for energy and the significant role that petroleum plays in various industries, having a bachelor’s degree in this field can easily mean a bright future. Petroleum engineers work on developing efficient and sustainable methods to extract and process petroleum, leading to rewarding career opportunities and competitive salaries.
Petroleum engineers make an average annual salary of $98,583. There is certainly a lot of money in this certain field.
Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering is a field of study that involves the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because it offers opportunities to work on advanced technology, contribute to space exploration, and be part of the aviation industry. Aerospace engineers play a crucial role in developing safer and more efficient air and space transportation systems.
As humans continually improve their aerial exploration processes, aerospace engineers certainly earn a lot of money. Aerospace engineers, according to Glassdoor.com, earn an average annual salary of $98,713.
Industrial Engineering
Industrial engineering focuses on optimizing complex systems and processes to improve efficiency and productivity. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because industrial engineers have the skills to streamline operations in various industries, leading to cost savings, improved quality, and increased productivity. Industrial engineers are in demand for their expertise in process optimization, supply chain management, and data analysis.
Industrial engineers, according to Glassdoor.com, earn an average annual salary of $88,158.
Marine Engineering
Marine engineering involves the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of marine vessels and structures. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because it combines engineering principles with a focus on marine applications. Marine engineers play a vital role in the maritime industry, contributing to the design and operation of ships, offshore structures, and coastal infrastructure, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of goods and people by sea.
Marine engineers have an average annual salary of $104,936. It is one of the few fields mentioned in this article that has an expected six-figure average in annual average earnings.
Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering applies principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to design and optimize processes for the production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and materials. It is considered one of the best bachelor’s degrees out there because chemical engineers contribute to important sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and healthcare. They develop efficient processes, ensure safety standards, and innovate in areas like sustainable energy, environmental protection, and new material development.
Another field that has a six-figure average annual salary valuation is chemical engineering, where chemical engineers earn $101,339 per year on average.
Electrical Engineering Degree
Electrical engineering focuses on the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because electrical engineers are essential in designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems and technologies. They work in various sectors, including power generation, telecommunications, electronics, and automation, contributing to advancements in renewable energy, wireless communication, robotics, and smart devices.
Electrical engineers earn an average annual salary of $88,848.
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering involves the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems and components. It is considered a great bachelor’s degree due to the broad range of industries and applications it encompasses. Mechanical engineers work on projects related to machinery, automotive systems, robotics, energy systems, and more. Their skills in problem-solving, innovation, and technical knowledge make them valuable contributors to technological advancements and industrial development.
Mechanical engineering students are certainly pursuing a great field. With an average annual career salary of $81,935, mechanical engineers are promised good pay!
Tech-Related Degree Programs
With the constant innovations in technology and humanity’s reliance on the Internet in today’s world, tech-related degree programs are surely booming. From 2021 to 2031, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 15% increase in the employment rate in the field of technology. With a median salary of $97,430 per year, tech-related college majors are promised a bright future!
Information Technology Management
Information Technology Management is an undergraduate degree that combines business and technology skills to effectively manage IT systems within an organization. Information technology management equips students with a blend of technical knowledge and managerial expertise, enabling them to bridge the gap between technology and business objectives. Graduates can pursue careers as IT managers, consultants, or analysts, where they play a vital role in driving digital transformation and ensuring efficient use of technology resources.
Information technologists earn an average annual salary of $64,302.
Electronics Engineering
Electronics Engineering is a discipline that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of electronic circuits and systems. Electronics engineers work on cutting-edge technologies, including microprocessors, embedded systems, and digital communication systems, contributing to advancements in areas like IoT, wireless communication, and robotics.
$88,602 is the expected annual average pay for electronics engineers.
Software Engineering, Software Development
Software engineering, or software development, is an undergraduate degree that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of software applications and systems. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because of the increasing reliance on software in virtually every aspect of modern life.
Software engineers develop innovative solutions, write code, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to create user-friendly and robust software products. With the continuous growth of technology, software engineers are in high demand and have excellent career prospects.
With applications and software continually being invented for public consumption, software engineers earn an average annual salary of $107,308.
While software developers earn an average annual pay of $107,308.
Computer Science Degree
A Computer Science degree encompasses the study of algorithms, programming languages, data structures, and computer systems. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees due to the strong foundation it provides in fundamental computing principles and problem-solving skills.
Computer science graduates possess a versatile skill set that enables them to work in various industries, including software development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. With the rapid advancement of technology, computer science professionals play a crucial role in shaping the future and driving innovation.
Another 6-figure earner on the list, computer scientists earn $116,368 on average per year.
Computer Engineering
Computer engineering integrates the principles of electrical engineering and computer science to develop hardware and software solutions. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees due to the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing reliance on computer systems.
Computer engineers are involved in designing and developing computer hardware, software, and networks, enabling technological innovations and driving digital transformation in various industries.
Computer engineers earn an average annual salary of $70,610.
Systems Engineering
Systems engineering integrates various engineering disciplines to design, develop, and manage complex systems. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because systems engineers have a holistic perspective and expertise in integrating different components into a cohesive and efficient system. They work on projects ranging from large-scale infrastructure to software systems, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
The tech industry certainly has a lot of career paths that can earn six figures in a year. Systems Engineers are expected to earn an average annual salary of $113,012.
Business-Related Degree Programs
The world of finance and business will always have empty seats that must be filled with manpower! From 2021 to 2031, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 7% increase in the employment rate in the vast field of business. With a median salary of $76,570 per year, a college major studying the field of business should be thrilled about these facts.
Operations Management
Operations Management is the field of study that focuses on managing the processes and systems that create and deliver goods and services. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because it equips students with the skills to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance productivity in organizations. Operations managers play a critical role in optimizing resources, reducing costs, and ensuring smooth operations, making them highly valuable in various industries.
Operations managers, according to Glassdoor.com, earn on average $96,398 per year.
Actuarial Science
Actuarial Science is the discipline that applies mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk and uncertainty in the insurance and finance sectors. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because actuaries are in high demand and command excellent salaries. Actuaries play a crucial role in analyzing data, calculating probabilities, and developing models to assess and manage risk, making them essential for insurance companies, financial institutions, and consulting firms.
Actuarial analysts are expected to have an average annual salary of $94,450.
Economics
Economics is the social science that studies how individuals, businesses, and societies allocate resources and make decisions. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because economists analyze economic trends, market conditions, and policy implications. They provide insights into business strategies, public policies, and economic development, making them highly sought-after in various sectors, including government, finance, consulting, and research.
Economists, according to Glassdoor.com, earn an average of $99,111 per year.
Finance Degree
A Finance Degree focuses on the study of financial systems, markets, and instruments. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because it provides students with a strong foundation in financial analysis, investment management, and risk assessment. Finance professionals are essential in managing financial assets, evaluating investment opportunities, and making strategic financial decisions for organizations, making them highly valuable in the corporate world and financial industry.
Financial managers earn an average annual salary of $91,068.
Supply Chain Management
Supply Chain Management involves the coordination and optimization of processes related to the production, procurement, and distribution of goods and services. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because supply chain managers play a crucial role in ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations.
They manage logistics, inventory, and sourcing to minimize costs, improve quality, and enhance customer satisfaction, making them highly sought-after in various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and logistics.
A supply chain manager can earn an average annual salary of $85,882 per year, according to Glassdoor.com
Accounting
Accounting is the practice of recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions. A bachelor’s degree in accounting is vital in society because accountants provide critical financial information that enables businesses to make informed decisions. They prepare financial statements, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide insights into financial performance, making them indispensable in organizations and highly valued by employers.
Accountants, with their impressive critical thinking skills, are expected to earn an average annual salary of $59,042.
Business Administration
Business Administration is a broad field of study that covers various aspects of managing and leading organizations. Business administration as a degree is highly valuable because it provides a well-rounded education in areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and human resources. Business administrators possess versatile skills that allow them to adapt to different roles and industries, making them highly employable and sought after by employers.
A business administrator can earn an average annual salary of $52,598 per year, according to Glassdoor.com.
Check out this video to learn more about the business administration degree:
Management Information Systems
Management Information Systems (MIS) focuses on the use of technology and information systems to support organizational processes and decision-making. It is considered one of the best undergraduate degrees because MIS professionals bridge the gap between business and technology.
They design and manage information systems, analyze data to drive strategic decisions, and ensure the effective use of technology in organizations, making them valuable in various industries where technology plays a crucial role.
Health-Related Degree Programs
As long as there is no fountain of youth, the healthcare sector will always be in need of manpower. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 13% increase in the employment rate in the health industry from 2021 to 2031. With a median salary ranging from $29,880 to $75,040 per year, students pursuing a health-related bachelor’s degree can expect a big job market with decent pay.
Nursing
Nursing is an undergraduate degree that prepares individuals to provide direct patient care and support in various healthcare settings. Nurses play a crucial role in promoting and maintaining the health of individuals and communities. With a growing demand for healthcare services, nursing offers excellent job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for specialization, making it a highly respected and rewarding field of study.
Nurses are expected to earn six figures per year! According to Glassdoor.com, this noble profession is expected to have an average career salary of $111,128 per year.
Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering is a discipline that combines the principles of engineering and life sciences to develop innovative solutions for healthcare challenges. Biomedical engineers contribute to advancements in medical technology, diagnostics, and treatment.
They design and develop medical devices, prosthetics, imaging systems, and rehabilitation equipment, playing a pivotal role in improving patient care and quality of life. With a strong demand for healthcare innovation, biomedical engineering offers excellent career prospects and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on society.
Biomedical engineers earn an average annual salary of $82,971 per year, according to Glassdoor.com.
Conclusion On Choosing Your Bachelor’s Degree
Ergo, certain undergraduate degrees are often regarded as the best due to their alignment with high-demand industries, potential for lucrative career opportunities, and the development of essential skills.
However, choosing the right degree for oneself is a decision that should be approached with careful consideration. It requires an assessment of personal interests, strengths, and long-term goals to ensure a fulfilling and successful career path. By conducting thorough research, seeking guidance, and understanding individual aspirations, one can make an informed decision that aligns with their passions and sets them on a path toward personal and professional fulfillment.