Want $70K+ Right After College? Pick these 9 Highest-Paying U.S. Majors. Right from the start, the college majors in the U.S. that pay the highest salaries are usually in STEM fields. They provide access to five-figure salaries early on in one’s career.
These highest paying U.S. majors churn out students who are hired for the hottest, most in-demand jobs in tech, energy, and construction. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average starting salary for 2026 graduates is about $68,680, and the top engineering majors average over $85,000.
Check the 9 top majors with highest paying salaries, jobs, and tips, perfect for students chasing high-earning careers fast.
9 Highest-Paying U.S. College Majors for New Grads
The Highest-Paying U.S. College Majors are based on 2026 data from career portals and alumni feedback. Engineering is still at the top due to a lack of qualified talent.
| Major | Average Starting Salary |
| Computer engineering | $90,000 |
| Computer science | $87,000 |
| Chemical engineering | $85,000 |
| Aerospace engineering | $85,000 |
| Industrial engineering | $83,000 |
| Electrical engineering | $82,000 |
| Mechanical engineering | $80,000 |
| Construction services | $75,000 |
| Civil engineering | $75,000 |
(Source: NACE)
Computer engineering grads code hardware-software hybrids for AI chips. Computer science builds apps at FAANG firms. Chemical engineers design fuels at Chevron.
Read about Most In-Demand College Majors in the U.S.
How much does an Average New Graduate Make Annually?
The average new U.S. college graduate earns about $68,680 annually in 2026, per NACE data—but top majors double that quickly. Location, internships, and skills boost pay.
Engineering and tech fields pull ahead due to demand; humanities lag at $50K. Negotiation and certifications add $5K-10K.
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Overall average starting salary sits at $68,680 across all majors.
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Engineering grads average $82,000, 20% above national norms.
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Computer science hits $87,000 with remote tech jobs booming.
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Factors like internships raise offers by 15% on average.
Regional differences matter—California pays 25% more for tech. Women in STEM close gaps faster with these majors.
Check: Top 10 STEM Courses to Study in the U.S.
Conclusion
Picking from these 9 highest-paying U.S. college majors like computer engineering or chemical engineering sets you up for $75K+ day-one pay and fast career growth. STEM rules for financial freedom—choose passion plus profit for lifelong wins. Research schools and internships now.
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