Hi all, I'm a junior and I've been really thinking about what I want to do after high school. I'm leaning towards majoring in computer science in college, but I'm curious... Does anyone have an idea about how much tech companies typically pay their out-of-college hires?
The exact amount can vary extensively depending on the company, the location, the specific role, and the graduate's educational background and skills. Generally speaking though, starting salaries in tech can be quite competitive compared to other fields.
As of 2024, the average starting salary for a computer science graduate is roughly $70,000 - $75,000 per year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). That being said, this is an average and doesn't necessarily reflect every situation.
Given how broad the field of technology is, many different roles could pay more or less. For example, software developers often make more than IT professionals.
On top of that, large technology companies in big cities may offer higher salaries. Top-tier tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and the like often pay new grads over $100,000 in base salary, with additional benefits and bonuses on top.
Remember, there are factors beyond salary that you'll want to consider when job hunting, including company culture, job security, opportunities for growth, your interest in the work, the cost of living where the job is located, and benefits.
It's great to see you're thinking about these things ahead of time! It's never too early to plan for your future. Just bear in mind that trends can change and the market when you graduate might be slightly different. That's why continually updating your skills and knowledge is key.
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