How much money do college grads typically make?

I'm curious about earning potentials post-college. What's the most amount of money someone could typically expect to make after graduating from college? Is this heavily dependent on the degree?

The income college graduates can expect depends greatly on their field of study, career choice, and even geographic location. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median annual wage for all occupations in the U.S. was $41,950 as of 2020.

However, those with a bachelor's degree tend to earn more than those without. The Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce mentioned that those with a bachelor's degree earn an average of $65,000 per year. But, it's essential to take into account that these are average figures and actual earnings can differ significantly based on individual circumstances.

When considering specific degrees, those in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, such as Petroleum Engineering, often see higher starting salaries compared to those in Humanities and Arts. For example, a Petroleum Engineering graduate's average starting salary can exceed $80,000 a year. On the flip side, those with degrees in fields like Social Work may see a lower average starting salary, often around $30,000 to $40,000 per year.

Remember, these numbers are rough averages and can vary widely depending on a multitude of factors like location, industry, work experience, and even the specific school you attend. Furthermore, higher education is not solely about monetary gain but also gaining knowledge and skills for personal development and contribution to society.