8 Highest Paying Bachelor Degrees (2024)

Summary

In today's economic climate, choosing the right bachelor's degree is crucial for maximizing income potential. The speaker outlines high-paying fields such as Management Information Systems, Nursing, Statistics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Biochemistry, and Economics, each with strong salaries and growth prospects. While art degrees generally aren't recommended, exceptional talent can lead to opportunities. The key takeaway emphasizes practical skills, mentorship, and understanding market demands to enhance career success, helping students navigate the complexities of higher education and align their choices with lucrative job markets.

Takeaways

• 📈 Focus on earning potential: In the current economic recession, choosing a degree that enhances income potential is crucial.
• 💡 Data is key: Management Information Systems combine business and technology skills, with data being more valuable than oil or gold.
• 👩‍⚕️ Nursing is essential: Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, with entry-level salaries around $69,000 and opportunities for higher earnings.
• 🔢 Math skills are valuable: A degree in statistics leads to a career in data analysis, with salaries averaging $85,000 and a 31% growth rate.
• 💻 Computer Science reigns supreme: This degree offers lucrative job opportunities, with an average salary of $115,000 and a projected 15% growth.
• ⚡ Engineering has its perks: Electrical engineers design critical systems, earning about $88,000, though growth is slower at 2%.
• 🔬 Biochemistry is promising: This science degree can lead to a solid career path, with salaries around $75,000 and a 15% growth rate.
• 💰 Economics blends logic and psychology: With an average salary of $99,000, this degree explores financial behaviors and market dynamics.
• 🎨 Art degrees require caution: While some art programs can be beneficial, most aren't financially viable without exceptional talent and opportunities.
• 👥 Networking is vital for artists: Engaging with a community of artists or working for established creators can significantly enhance career success.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video discusses the highest paying bachelor's degrees and emphasizes the importance of choosing a degree that can enhance earning potential, especially during an economic recession.

Why does the speaker believe some college degrees can harm earning potential?

The speaker argues that certain degrees may not provide the necessary skills or job opportunities that lead to high salaries, potentially limiting a graduate's ability to earn a good income.

What degree is highlighted as the first high-paying option?

The first high-paying degree mentioned is in Management Information Systems, which combines business and technology skills focused on data.

What is the average salary and job growth for Management Information Systems graduates?

Graduates with a degree in Management Information Systems can expect an average salary of about $97,000 per year, with job growth projected at 16% over the next ten years.

What role do nurses play in the healthcare system according to the speaker?

Nurses are described as the 'foot soldiers' of the healthcare industry, essential for patient care and on the front lines in the fight against death and injury.

What is the expected salary for entry-level nursing jobs?

Entry-level nursing jobs typically start at around $69,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings through specialization.

How does the speaker characterize the field of statistics?

Statistics is characterized as a field that allows individuals to solve mysteries with numbers, helping companies extract actionable insights from data.

What are the average salary and growth rate for statisticians?

Statisticians earn an average salary of about $85,000 per year, with a significant growth rate of 31% expected over the next decade.

What is the main focus of a computer science degree?

A computer science degree focuses on the development and maintenance of technology systems, preparing graduates for roles like software developers.

What concerns does the speaker raise about technology?

The speaker expresses concerns that while technology has benefits, it has also been linked to increased mental health issues, urging individuals to manage their technology usage wisely.

What degree is ranked the highest among over 900 degrees according to the speaker?

Computer science is ranked as the top degree among over 900 different degrees due to its strong job prospects and salary potential.

What does the speaker suggest for those considering an art degree?

The speaker advises that pursuing an art degree is often not a good idea unless the individual is exceptionally talented, and recommends finding stable employment while pursuing art as a side endeavor.

What advice does the speaker give for making money from art?

The speaker suggests reading the book 'Steal Like an Artist' for practical tips on monetizing art and encourages building a community with other artists for support and learning.

How does the speaker categorize different bachelor's degrees?

The speaker categorizes degrees into groups such as business, health, technology, math, engineering, science, social science, and art, discussing the earning potential and job prospects associated with each.