Be it a pandemic or mass digitalization; the job market is evolving because of expected and unexpected disruptions. There is a growing demand for professionals with advanced skill sets and specialized know-how to tackle business-related and global problems of all shapes and sizes. Hence choosing a college major is becoming a tough decision for students and professionals who want to secure stable, well-paying jobs and stay relevant in the future.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 11.9 million new jobs will be created from 2020 to 2030 in the U.S. So, whenever you begin your hunt for the right degree to study, research the job market, assess the pros and cons, and listen to your heart before you end up picking one in a hurry. That said, listed below are college majors likely to gain popularity because of growth and earning potential. Consider one of these if it piques your interest.
1. Computer science
Computer science is currently among the most sought-after degree in the world. Ever since technology began to engulf our lives, there has been a constant need for better and innovative solutions to peoples’ problems. These include both offline and online products/services. By choosing to study this discipline and joining a related career, you will be responsible for creating web-based applications and software that fulfill our everyday needs. You’ll be able to land jobs in IT and Tech firms. According to the BLS, computer scientists earn $60 per hour, on average. The employment of CS grads is projected to grow by 22 percent from 2020 to 2030.
2. Education
Are you someone who loves to teach others? If yes, a career in education may be well suited to you. A career in education is personally satisfying and pays well too. The journey never ceases as it’s a continuous process of developing the intellect of others. You can opt for a Masters of Science in Education degree to enhance your knowledge and skills to become an educator or facilitator. You’ll be responsible for designing curricula and policymaking to ensure education is more inclusive, accessible, and practical. According to the BLS, some of the best job positions in education include postsecondary teacher, postsecondary education administrator, and curriculum developer.
3. Digital marketing
Considering more than half of the world’s population uses the internet to browse and buy products/services, it makes sense for companies to shift marketing efforts online. Hence, a major in digital marketing is ideal to land a high-paying job in the sector. Through this degree, not only will you master the art of selling a product online, but you will gain extensive know-how in consumer psychology, influencer marketing, content writing, and social media marketing. According to a survey conducted by McKinley, the average salary of digital marketing professionals is $107,100 across all roles. Earning a degree in marketing opens an array of career options for you.
4. Biomedical engineering
A degree in biomedical engineering is rewarding but competitive. As an advanced and complex study program, biomedical engineering combines medicine and healthcare with modern technology to develop innovative tools and methods to improve the healthcare sector. Since the coronavirus pandemic struck in 2019, there has been an ever-growing demand for season professionals in this field. If you have prior experience in math and science, you are better equipped than others to pursue this subject as a major. According to BLS, biomedical engineers made a median salary of $91,410 in 2019, which is well above the median salary for similar jobs.
5. Petroleum engineering
Petroleum engineers are among the highest-paid professionals in the world. Petroleum engineers will be needed in the decades to come, particularly following recent energy crises and global climate change. The world population will grow from 7.5 billion to 9 billion by the year 2050. This means energy demands will multiply. Therefore, oil and gas production needs to increase. If you become a petroleum engineer, you will be at the forefront of addressing these issues. So you might want to consider petroleum engineering as a major before the market gets saturated. According to a survey, the median annual wage for petroleum engineers is $137,330.
6. Game design
If you eagerly wait to play your favorite games and would love to create new ones, this could be the best college degree for you. Having a degree in this field will set you on a path toward working for a video game studio. According to Payscale, the average salary for a video game developer is $66,609. Several multinational companies are always on the lookout for game designers, owing to the increase in demand for new and exciting games. This degree is perfect for you if you are passionate, creative, and love gaming. Also, you will have ample opportunities to work as a freelancer or remotely.
7. Accounts and finance
When it comes to finding a well-paying career option, few are as highly rewarding as a job in accounts and finance. These subjects cover a broad list of topics, including economics, risk management, taxation, financial analytics, and statistics. According to the BLS, the job market for accounts and finance majors will grow by 10 percent through 2026, with a median salary ranging from $64,000 to $86,000. If you earn a related degree, you will have the option of working in large corporations, banks, tax agencies, government organizations, and more. The financial know-how may also empower you to manage business finance if you possess an entrepreneurial mindset.
8. Nursing
The demand for nurses has always been high. A nursing degree is most suited for compassionate and empathic people who love to care for the sick. It’s a demanding career, where you have to work night shifts at times and deal with emotional and mental traumas. According to the BLS, employment in nursing will grow by 9% annually from 2020 to 2030, with a median salary of $75,000. Many universities now offer flexible online programs in nursing, which are ideal for aspirants trying to juggle academics with clinical experience.
Conclusion
Every college major is worth your time and money. A college degree nurtures your brainpower and knowledge. It also enhances personality and soft skills to prepare you for the job market. The subjects mentioned above offer a path leading to some of the most high-paying and in-demand future jobs. So, decide where you wish to see yourself in the next few years and take a leap of faith. Opportunities await you!
