Which majors have the best financial outlook?

College grad incomes have been on my mind recently. What college majors generally pave the way for high-paying careers later down the line?

There are a few disciplines that have historically led to higher-paying jobs post-graduation. Remember, however, that your passion for the field should also play an important role in the decision process, since you'll be spending quite a bit of time studying and then working in your chosen field.

1. Computer Science: With our world becoming increasingly digitized, there is high demand for computer science professionals. Jobs in this field include software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity. Computer Science majors can expect to earn a median salary upwards of $70,000 right out of college.

2. Engineering: Nearly all engineering fields are high-paying, including civil, chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Newly graduated engineers can expect to earn around $60,000 to $70,000 on average, with some fields like petroleum engineering upwards of $80,000 due to the specialized skill set.

3. Mathematics and Statistics: Quantitative skills are in high demand, making this a high-earning major. Jobs include statisticians, actuarial scientists, and data analysts.

4. Economics: This field has wide application in industry, government, and finance, making it lucrative. Job titles could range from an economic consultant to an investment banking analyst.

5. Nursing: The healthcare industry is consistently growing, and nursing is a profession with high demand and a competitive salary. It's important to note, bachelor's degree-holding nurses typically earn more than those with an associate degree.

These are averages, and individual salaries can vary based on your skill set, location, and the specific job you take. Good luck as you continue to explore your academic options and their potential financial outcomes!