What to buy (and skip) in January 2022
It’s 2022, and the new normal still feels pretty abnormal. The holiday season came and went, and we all learned a lot about supply chain management. If you’re reading this, you’re likely unfazed by product delays and determined to save a buck in the new year.
The good news is you can count on a few tried and true post-holiday sales, although discounts are likely to vary. Here’s your guide for what to buy (and skip) in January, based on NerdWallet’s analysis of historical sales cycles, along with a little speculation in what’s been an unpredictable retail environment.
Buy: Christmas decorations
It’s no surprise that Christmas decorations go on sale in the days after the holiday. We get that it’s hard to keep the Christmas spirit after the decorations go down, but the savvy shopper restocks in January when retailers let leftovers go for cheap.
Nerdy tip: DIY decorators can shop post-Christmas sales to stock up on fresh sets of lights that will be easy to store and retrieve next year. And after a few years of stocking up, you’ll have enough strands to outdo Clark Griswold from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”
Skip: Furniture
Supply is too limited to feel good about a furniture purchase right now. Yes, some retailers have inventory in stock, but chances are you won’t be able to pick from a wide selection. This could put pressure on you to make a decision now that you’ll regret later. Besides, President’s Day weekend (Feb. 19-21) is often the ideal time to buy furniture during the winter.
Buy: TVs
It’s difficult to think of a time during the year when TVs aren’t popular. Who doesn’t love the look of a 4K flat screen mounted on the wall on any given Sunday afternoon? You’ll be happy to know bigger and cheaper is the recent trend in TVs, according to Consumer Reports. But aside from Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you can often score the best bargain on a TV right before the Super Bowl.
The big game is set for Feb. 13. You can expect Amazon, Best Buy and other big-box retailers to tee up deals in the weeks before kickoff. As for store stock, both Amazon and Best Buy had plenty of models and sizes to choose from at the time of this writing.
Skip: Gym memberships
It’s common knowledge that gyms meet the influx of aspirational exercisers with membership discounts in January. Also common knowledge: The majority of people fail to stick with their workout-related New Year’s resolutions. Gyms plan for this and tend to sell more memberships than their facilities can accommodate this time of year, says Lars Perner, assistant professor of clinical marketing at the University of Southern California.
We don’t want you to waste your money. That, along with the still very real threat of COVID-19, make gym memberships a “skip” this year.
Buy: Fitness equipment
Exercise equipment goes on sale in January, too. You can expect more worthwhile deals from retailers this year since demand for dumbbells and machines has eased. Another bonus? While it’s not a monetary deal, wait times for popular products are down since early on in the pandemic. For example, Peloton’s Bike and Bike+ are expected to ship within one to two weeks at the time of this writing, down from an estimated eight to 10 weeks a year ago.
Nerdy tip: New exercise bike still too expensive? Check out Facebook Marketplace and other second-hand selling apps like OfferUp and Craigslist for used equipment. And remember, there’s almost always room to negotiate on used items, so go ahead, make an offer.
Skip (for now): Toys
With Christmas over, deals on toys dissipate in January. Skip them for now, but keep an eye out for off-season sales in February and into the spring. “There could be some bargains on things that didn’t make it in time for the holidays,” Perner says. These items could then be unloaded at significant discounts. He suspects toys could fall into this category because the vast majority are imported and intended to be bought as gifts. This may lead to unexpected deals on popular holiday gifts as delayed shipments arrive.
Nerdy tip: If you do spot a good buy on a hot toy, take the deal and hold it for a future gift.
Buy: Bed and bath linens
Department stores made January famous for white sales. They discount bedspreads, sheets, towels and more to make way for new inventory. We’ve seen savings of up to 70% in past years. Check out department store classics like Macy’s, Belk and Dillard’s for good sales.
Shop: Martin Luther King Jr. Day sales
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Jan. 17. Because it’s a three-day weekend for many workers, some retailers offer sales. Look for deals on a range of products, from handbags and winter apparel to home goods and mattresses.
Bonus: National Pie Day
If you resolved to eat healthier this year, mark Jan. 23 as your first “cheat day.” It’s National Pie Day and your chance to score a free slice at participating bakeries and restaurants.
Deal or no deal?
Stay optimistic, but temper expectations this January. Retailers make decisions based on customer demand, and overall demand was strong at the end of 2021. They may test the waters to gauge how willing you are to pay full price in January and then offer discounts as needed, says Simone Peinkofer, assistant professor of supply chain management at Michigan State University.
Be ready to make a game-time decision. “There’s always a risk with that,” Peinkofer says. “To wait or not to wait?”
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardITTIGallery // Shutterstock
Choosing a college major is a big decision. Students must decide to study something that challenges and interests them while balancing the hard realities of the job market and outlook of career paths. A good salary coming out of college is key to a secure middle-class future, and with increasing student loan debts, choosing a major that yields bigger salaries out the gate becomes even more desirable.
To show just how valuable these college majors can be, Stacker used data from a 2020 PayScale report to rank the top 100 college majors that alumni make the most money from in their respective professional careers. The rankings, released in 2021, are based on the highest average mid-career salary. Information is provided about the jobs a major in that area might be hired for, which skills they’ll attain in school, and what the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects their prospects are of finding a job upon graduation with a bachelor’s degree.
Stacker’s list of top 100 college majors that earn the most money is diverse, beginning with Japanese studies and ending with petroleum engineering. In between, computational and applied mathematics, aeronautics, building science, and mechatronics top the ranks of college majors that earn the most money early to mid-career. Within the list, engineer-related college majors dominate, with petroleum engineering majors making the most mid-career pay at $187,300.
Keep reading to find out if your major made the list of college majors that earn the most money.
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ITTIGallery // ShutterstockChoosing a college major is a big decision. Students must decide to study something that challenges and interests them while balancing the hard realities of the job market and outlook of career paths. A good salary coming out of college is key to a secure middle-class future, and with increasing student loan debts, choosing a major that yields bigger salaries out the gate becomes even more desirable.
To show just how valuable these college majors can be, Stacker used data from a 2020 PayScale report to rank the top 100 college majors that alumni make the most money from in their respective professional careers. The rankings, released in 2021, are based on the highest average mid-career salary. Information is provided about the jobs a major in that area might be hired for, which skills they’ll attain in school, and what the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects their prospects are of finding a job upon graduation with a bachelor’s degree.
Stacker’s list of top 100 college majors that earn the most money is diverse, beginning with Japanese studies and ending with petroleum engineering. In between, computational and applied mathematics, aeronautics, building science, and mechatronics top the ranks of college majors that earn the most money early to mid-career. Within the list, engineer-related college majors dominate, with petroleum engineering majors making the most mid-career pay at $187,300.
Keep reading to find out if your major made the list of college majors that earn the most money.
You may also like: 100 highest-paying jobs in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $69,600
- Mid-career pay: $113,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%
Electronics engineering focuses on the design and development of electronic devices, including phones, music players, and GPS systems. Majors will be taught the ins and outs of digital systems design and circuit theory while adding drafting courses can enhance a graduate’s employability. The slowing of the manufacturing and telecommunications industries has the profession projected to grow by only 2% in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Canva- Early career pay: $69,600
- Mid-career pay: $113,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%
Electronics engineering focuses on the design and development of electronic devices, including phones, music players, and GPS systems. Majors will be taught the ins and outs of digital systems design and circuit theory while adding drafting courses can enhance a graduate’s employability. The slowing of the manufacturing and telecommunications industries has the profession projected to grow by only 2% in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,000
- Mid-career pay: $114,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%
It is the role of an information systems manager to make data accessible and actionable through technology. This line of work requires problem-solving and analysis to find ways in which businesses can more efficiently make connections between data and the product or services they provide. Required coursework often merges multiple areas of discipline including mathematics, computer science, business, and ethics.
Canva- Early career pay: $65,000
- Mid-career pay: $114,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%
It is the role of an information systems manager to make data accessible and actionable through technology. This line of work requires problem-solving and analysis to find ways in which businesses can more efficiently make connections between data and the product or services they provide. Required coursework often merges multiple areas of discipline including mathematics, computer science, business, and ethics.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $63,600
- Mid-career pay: $115,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
International sales manager, retail buyer, and regional sales director make up a few career choices for industrial distribution majors who study the purchase and transport of goods. Program coursework required for this career includes communications, domestic and international marketing, analysis, operations management, wholesale purchasing, and distribution supervision. Professionals in the field have strong math and problem-solving skills.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $63,600
- Mid-career pay: $115,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
International sales manager, retail buyer, and regional sales director make up a few career choices for industrial distribution majors who study the purchase and transport of goods. Program coursework required for this career includes communications, domestic and international marketing, analysis, operations management, wholesale purchasing, and distribution supervision. Professionals in the field have strong math and problem-solving skills.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardmark reinstein // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $47,700
- Mid-career pay: $115,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 41%
Asian studies majors explore the history, economy, culture, and politics of the continent of Asia. This broad knowledge and context positions graduates for careers in government, international relations, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.
mark reinstein // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $47,700
- Mid-career pay: $115,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 41%
Asian studies majors explore the history, economy, culture, and politics of the continent of Asia. This broad knowledge and context positions graduates for careers in government, international relations, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $67,800
- Mid-career pay: $115,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%
Considered a specialty within civil engineering, majors in this field concentrate on the design and structure of buildings, bridges, and roadways. Both a college degree and a professional engineer’s license are required to practice, which requires an understanding of physics, math, and material properties. During their careers, structural engineers work alongside architects and construction officials to determine design safety in the face of elemental forces, including snow, wind, and earthquakes.
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Canva- Early career pay: $67,800
- Mid-career pay: $115,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%
Considered a specialty within civil engineering, majors in this field concentrate on the design and structure of buildings, bridges, and roadways. Both a college degree and a professional engineer’s license are required to practice, which requires an understanding of physics, math, and material properties. During their careers, structural engineers work alongside architects and construction officials to determine design safety in the face of elemental forces, including snow, wind, and earthquakes.
You may also like: Most liberal colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $115,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 33%
By combining technology and business, a major in information and decision sciences can attain the title of business analyst, data quality specialist, and business intelligence developer, among others. Graduates gain skills to analyze emerging technologies, use computer programs, and design and update operating systems.
Canva- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $115,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 33%
By combining technology and business, a major in information and decision sciences can attain the title of business analyst, data quality specialist, and business intelligence developer, among others. Graduates gain skills to analyze emerging technologies, use computer programs, and design and update operating systems.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $72,300
- Mid-career pay: $115,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 58%
Though the job outlook for college majors with a materials engineering degree is slight, growing 2% between 2019–2029, the early to mid-career pay ranks as one of the highest for young professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2020 median pay for professionals is $95,640 annually, equaling $45.98 per hour. College majors learn how to design and test materials for the creation of products.
Canva- Early career pay: $72,300
- Mid-career pay: $115,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 58%
Though the job outlook for college majors with a materials engineering degree is slight, growing 2% between 2019–2029, the early to mid-career pay ranks as one of the highest for young professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2020 median pay for professionals is $95,640 annually, equaling $45.98 per hour. College majors learn how to design and test materials for the creation of products.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardLI CHAOSHU // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $77,000
- Mid-career pay: $115,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 39%
Graduates in this major—which explains the science and technology of converting raw bio-materials into paper and new ways to manufacture the product—are well-versed in advanced math, chemistry, and physical and chemical properties of wood. Field, project, packaging, quality, and process engineer are some titles alums hold after graduating.
LI CHAOSHU // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $77,000
- Mid-career pay: $115,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 39%
Graduates in this major—which explains the science and technology of converting raw bio-materials into paper and new ways to manufacture the product—are well-versed in advanced math, chemistry, and physical and chemical properties of wood. Field, project, packaging, quality, and process engineer are some titles alums hold after graduating.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterOK // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $66,400
- Mid-career pay: $115,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
Telecommunications engineering entails designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting data, voice, video, and image systems. Graduates have jobs setting up network systems or installing fiber optic cable, and work for telecom companies, government agencies, or consulting firms. Available in associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees, majors in the subject learn computer programming and networking through studying digital electronics and satellite transmission, among other specialties.
ShutterOK // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $66,400
- Mid-career pay: $115,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
Telecommunications engineering entails designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting data, voice, video, and image systems. Graduates have jobs setting up network systems or installing fiber optic cable, and work for telecom companies, government agencies, or consulting firms. Available in associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degrees, majors in the subject learn computer programming and networking through studying digital electronics and satellite transmission, among other specialties.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $69,200
- Mid-career pay: $115,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Ceramic engineers develop materials needed for defense systems, transportation, and environmental technology by working with ceramics, an inorganic material handled at high temperatures. By combining math and science, majors learn to invent and work with products through critical thinking and problem-solving. Those who pursue the degree have a strong interest in the practical application of physics and chemistry.
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Canva- Early career pay: $69,200
- Mid-career pay: $115,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Ceramic engineers develop materials needed for defense systems, transportation, and environmental technology by working with ceramics, an inorganic material handled at high temperatures. By combining math and science, majors learn to invent and work with products through critical thinking and problem-solving. Those who pursue the degree have a strong interest in the practical application of physics and chemistry.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardStFX // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $62,000
- Mid-career pay: $115,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 41%
Collecting, analyzing, and forecasting data for specific market trends, including finance, labor, and agriculture, is what economics majors study. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects up to an 8% growth in the field from 2018 to 2028 for economists, who most often hold a master’s degree or doctorate. Critical thinking, reading comprehension, and decision-making are required skills for students who take on a variety of tasks, including conducting research, compiling reports, and supervising projects.
StFX // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $62,000
- Mid-career pay: $115,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 41%
Collecting, analyzing, and forecasting data for specific market trends, including finance, labor, and agriculture, is what economics majors study. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects up to an 8% growth in the field from 2018 to 2028 for economists, who most often hold a master’s degree or doctorate. Critical thinking, reading comprehension, and decision-making are required skills for students who take on a variety of tasks, including conducting research, compiling reports, and supervising projects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $52,800
- Mid-career pay: $115,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 69%
A pharmaceutical sciences degree program begins with coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, and math, and advances to more complex areas of study like drug design and manufacturing, research, and regulation. Graduates with a pharmaceutical sciences degree can find work in the private sector for biotech companies like Vertex or Regeneron, for government agencies like the FDA, in academia, or in pharmaceutical sales.
Canva- Early career pay: $52,800
- Mid-career pay: $115,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 69%
A pharmaceutical sciences degree program begins with coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, and math, and advances to more complex areas of study like drug design and manufacturing, research, and regulation. Graduates with a pharmaceutical sciences degree can find work in the private sector for biotech companies like Vertex or Regeneron, for government agencies like the FDA, in academia, or in pharmaceutical sales.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $59,600
- Mid-career pay: $116,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
Business and economics, the study of trade and finance, is a double major that equips a graduate for several careers, including senior financial analyst, chief finance officer, and chief operating officer. Those with this double major find well-paying jobs in market research organizations, consulting firms, investment institutions, merger and acquisition departments, and insurance companies.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $59,600
- Mid-career pay: $116,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
Business and economics, the study of trade and finance, is a double major that equips a graduate for several careers, including senior financial analyst, chief finance officer, and chief operating officer. Those with this double major find well-paying jobs in market research organizations, consulting firms, investment institutions, merger and acquisition departments, and insurance companies.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $58,700
- Mid-career pay: $116,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
International economics is the study of global trade and finance and its worldwide effect. By predicting production, transaction, and multilateral trade negotiations, majors in the subject become government or global organization analysts and consultants, or work in the finance industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports most economics majors in the private sector have either a master’s degree or doctorate, but entry-level jobs in a federal agency only require a bachelor’s degree.
Canva- Early career pay: $58,700
- Mid-career pay: $116,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
International economics is the study of global trade and finance and its worldwide effect. By predicting production, transaction, and multilateral trade negotiations, majors in the subject become government or global organization analysts and consultants, or work in the finance industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports most economics majors in the private sector have either a master’s degree or doctorate, but entry-level jobs in a federal agency only require a bachelor’s degree.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardGreat Pics - Ben Heine // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $67,300
- Mid-career pay: $116,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 52%
Applied physics is the practical application of core physics concepts to solve a problem. For example, acoustic engineering—a type of applied physics—marries the study of sound and the need to create environments, like factories, which can regulate noise. There is no shortage of career opportunities for holders of an applied physics degree, particularly in the fields of fiber optics, semiconductors, and astrophysics, to name a few.
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Great Pics - Ben Heine // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $67,300
- Mid-career pay: $116,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 52%
Applied physics is the practical application of core physics concepts to solve a problem. For example, acoustic engineering—a type of applied physics—marries the study of sound and the need to create environments, like factories, which can regulate noise. There is no shortage of career opportunities for holders of an applied physics degree, particularly in the fields of fiber optics, semiconductors, and astrophysics, to name a few.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $60,100
- Mid-career pay: $116,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
While a computer forensic analyst averages more early career pay, a network architect makes even more than the mid-career pay for graduates of the major. The business end of the major teaches students finance, marketing, operating systems, and web administration. Students who attain a graduate business and information technology degree, and earn more annual pay, learn disaster recovery, managerial accounting, and systems project management.
Canva- Early career pay: $60,100
- Mid-career pay: $116,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
While a computer forensic analyst averages more early career pay, a network architect makes even more than the mid-career pay for graduates of the major. The business end of the major teaches students finance, marketing, operating systems, and web administration. Students who attain a graduate business and information technology degree, and earn more annual pay, learn disaster recovery, managerial accounting, and systems project management.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $63,000
- Mid-career pay: $117,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 37%
This degree is an appropriate fit for people with passion for business and technology. With an accounting and computer systems degree, alumni often pursue certification as a certified public accountant. Graduates also have the additional skill set of deeply understanding software and databases frequently used in business. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 12% expected job growth in the industry by 2028.
Canva- Early career pay: $63,000
- Mid-career pay: $117,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 37%
This degree is an appropriate fit for people with passion for business and technology. With an accounting and computer systems degree, alumni often pursue certification as a certified public accountant. Graduates also have the additional skill set of deeply understanding software and databases frequently used in business. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 12% expected job growth in the industry by 2028.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $75,500
- Mid-career pay: $117,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
A degree in engineering mechanics offers a variety of important postsecondary career opportunities. Combining both basic sciences and engineering sciences like thermodynamics, mechanics, electrical engineering, and engineering mechanics is essential in fields such as aerospace and engineering. Graduates most often find work as architectural and engineering managers, engineers, or engineering professors.
Canva- Early career pay: $75,500
- Mid-career pay: $117,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
A degree in engineering mechanics offers a variety of important postsecondary career opportunities. Combining both basic sciences and engineering sciences like thermodynamics, mechanics, electrical engineering, and engineering mechanics is essential in fields such as aerospace and engineering. Graduates most often find work as architectural and engineering managers, engineers, or engineering professors.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $71,900
- Mid-career pay: $117,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
An industrial engineering degree prepares graduates to oversee various aspects of large-scale projects, including quality control, labor, cost analysis, logistics, material flow, and more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that many industrial engineers have a degree in a specific field, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and manufacturing engineering. An expanding health care system will probably produce higher demand for industrial engineers in professional, scientific, and consulting businesses.
Canva- Early career pay: $71,900
- Mid-career pay: $117,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
An industrial engineering degree prepares graduates to oversee various aspects of large-scale projects, including quality control, labor, cost analysis, logistics, material flow, and more. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that many industrial engineers have a degree in a specific field, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and manufacturing engineering. An expanding health care system will probably produce higher demand for industrial engineers in professional, scientific, and consulting businesses.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $61,400
- Mid-career pay: $117,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 31%
International business and finance majors learn to manage money on a worldwide scale. By learning international law, corporate governance, and capital markets, majors can become venture capitalists, management consultants, investment bankers, financial accountants, and financial analysts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that business and financial employment is growing faster than the average for all jobs, with an expected 7% growth between 2018–2028.
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Canva- Early career pay: $61,400
- Mid-career pay: $117,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 31%
International business and finance majors learn to manage money on a worldwide scale. By learning international law, corporate governance, and capital markets, majors can become venture capitalists, management consultants, investment bankers, financial accountants, and financial analysts. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that business and financial employment is growing faster than the average for all jobs, with an expected 7% growth between 2018–2028.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardnevodka // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $72,700
- Mid-career pay: $117,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
A materials science and engineering degree combines the study of the structure and chemical properties of all types of materials, including metals, glass, polymers, graphites, plastics, and ceramics. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics separates materials scientists, who study substance interaction on atomic and molecular levels, from materials engineers, who develop and test substances, both professions earn a considerable median income.
nevodka // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $72,700
- Mid-career pay: $117,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
A materials science and engineering degree combines the study of the structure and chemical properties of all types of materials, including metals, glass, polymers, graphites, plastics, and ceramics. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics separates materials scientists, who study substance interaction on atomic and molecular levels, from materials engineers, who develop and test substances, both professions earn a considerable median income.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $71,000
- Mid-career pay: $117,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 50%
Mechanical engineering is the design and development of tools, devices, and machinery, which requires strong science, math, mechanical, and critical thinking skills. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports up to a 4% growth in mechanical engineering employment until 2028, such as in the automotive manufacturing industry. With a doctorate, mechanical engineers can participate in research and development programs as well as teach the subject at the university level.
Canva- Early career pay: $71,000
- Mid-career pay: $117,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 50%
Mechanical engineering is the design and development of tools, devices, and machinery, which requires strong science, math, mechanical, and critical thinking skills. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports up to a 4% growth in mechanical engineering employment until 2028, such as in the automotive manufacturing industry. With a doctorate, mechanical engineers can participate in research and development programs as well as teach the subject at the university level.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardJat306 // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $68,800
- Mid-career pay: $118,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 57%
Offered at both undergraduate and graduate levels, construction engineering management is the combination of technology and science to reinforce construction framework on a wide range of large-scale projects, including airport design, roadways, bridges, and water waste management systems, or smaller residential and commercial structures. Majors who work in the field are well-versed in government codes, regulations, and laws for site inspections. They also have strong active listening and critical thinking skills to work with other officials.
Jat306 // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $68,800
- Mid-career pay: $118,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 57%
Offered at both undergraduate and graduate levels, construction engineering management is the combination of technology and science to reinforce construction framework on a wide range of large-scale projects, including airport design, roadways, bridges, and water waste management systems, or smaller residential and commercial structures. Majors who work in the field are well-versed in government codes, regulations, and laws for site inspections. They also have strong active listening and critical thinking skills to work with other officials.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $78,800
- Mid-career pay: $118,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 64%
Extracting coal and other metals in the safest manner is what mining engineering students are preparing for in their careers. Reduction in mining of coal, and businesses hiring engineering firms as opposed to employing their own, has growth projected at just 3% over the next decade. The future of mining may be beyond the confines of the planet, with the Colorado School of Mines being the first to offer a space resources course for extracting precious metals from asteroids and other bodies in outer space.
Canva- Early career pay: $78,800
- Mid-career pay: $118,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 64%
Extracting coal and other metals in the safest manner is what mining engineering students are preparing for in their careers. Reduction in mining of coal, and businesses hiring engineering firms as opposed to employing their own, has growth projected at just 3% over the next decade. The future of mining may be beyond the confines of the planet, with the Colorado School of Mines being the first to offer a space resources course for extracting precious metals from asteroids and other bodies in outer space.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardOhiodominican // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $95,900
- Mid-career pay: $118,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 84%
Physician assistant studies prepare majors for a career in the medical field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most in the field require a master’s degree. This industry is forecasted to grow by up to 31% by 2028, making it an appealing choice for those interested in job security. Strong listening, critical thinking, and deductive and inductive reasoning skills are required for graduates, who become assistants in examining, testing, diagnosing, and treating patients.
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Ohiodominican // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $95,900
- Mid-career pay: $118,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 84%
Physician assistant studies prepare majors for a career in the medical field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that most in the field require a master’s degree. This industry is forecasted to grow by up to 31% by 2028, making it an appealing choice for those interested in job security. Strong listening, critical thinking, and deductive and inductive reasoning skills are required for graduates, who become assistants in examining, testing, diagnosing, and treating patients.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,900
- Mid-career pay: $118,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
Double majoring in accounting and economics combines the accounting’s skills of preparing financial documents and tax statements with economics’ understanding of markets and forecasting future decisions. Both professions individually are expected to grow at, or slightly above, the national average, while combining them only enhances job prospects.
Canva- Early career pay: $65,900
- Mid-career pay: $118,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
Double majoring in accounting and economics combines the accounting’s skills of preparing financial documents and tax statements with economics’ understanding of markets and forecasting future decisions. Both professions individually are expected to grow at, or slightly above, the national average, while combining them only enhances job prospects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $58,000
- Mid-career pay: $119,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
While a master’s degree is preferred among many employers, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in geophysics have a firm understanding of the planet’s physical properties and use physics to study the earth’s magnetic, gravitational, and electric fields. Emerging energy technologies, like wind and geothermal energies, will help keep geophysicists employed.
Canva- Early career pay: $58,000
- Mid-career pay: $119,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
While a master’s degree is preferred among many employers, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in geophysics have a firm understanding of the planet’s physical properties and use physics to study the earth’s magnetic, gravitational, and electric fields. Emerging energy technologies, like wind and geothermal energies, will help keep geophysicists employed.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $63,600
- Mid-career pay: $119,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Treating the computer as a tool to find innovative solutions to complex problems falls to the computer and information science grads. Students will leave with a firm grasp of network security, computer programming, and software design. The job market for those completing a four-year degree is strong, with careers in software development expected to grow 21% over the next 10 years.
Canva- Early career pay: $63,600
- Mid-career pay: $119,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Treating the computer as a tool to find innovative solutions to complex problems falls to the computer and information science grads. Students will leave with a firm grasp of network security, computer programming, and software design. The job market for those completing a four-year degree is strong, with careers in software development expected to grow 21% over the next 10 years.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,000
- Mid-career pay: $119,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
A specialized field of economics, quantitative economics incorporates statistics along with math to predict future economic conditions. The demand for economists is expected to grow slightly faster than average over the next decade, but the highly competitive nature of the field means grads should consider pursuing a master’s degree. Learning additional statistical analysis software can help those obtaining a bachelor’s degree enhance their job prospects.
Canva- Early career pay: $65,000
- Mid-career pay: $119,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
A specialized field of economics, quantitative economics incorporates statistics along with math to predict future economic conditions. The demand for economists is expected to grow slightly faster than average over the next decade, but the highly competitive nature of the field means grads should consider pursuing a master’s degree. Learning additional statistical analysis software can help those obtaining a bachelor’s degree enhance their job prospects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $65,900
- Mid-career pay: $119,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
Understanding energy and matter and how they relate through space and time is the goal of those pursuing a degree in physics. There are plenty of options for graduates in physics, from teaching in a high school to understanding the origins of the universe. Students will graduate with skills in advanced math, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.
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Shutterstock- Early career pay: $65,900
- Mid-career pay: $119,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
Understanding energy and matter and how they relate through space and time is the goal of those pursuing a degree in physics. There are plenty of options for graduates in physics, from teaching in a high school to understanding the origins of the universe. Students will graduate with skills in advanced math, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.
You may also like: 50 best private colleges ranked from least to most expensive
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardJoonspoon // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $75,000
- Mid-career pay: $120,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
Software engineering majors learn to develop programs for computers using principles of engineering. Learning a wide variety of computer languages and gaining certifications can help job candidates stand out from the pack. Becoming a software developer is one of the more lucrative career paths a graduate can take, with this field expected to grow by 21% over the next 10 years.
Joonspoon // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $75,000
- Mid-career pay: $120,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
Software engineering majors learn to develop programs for computers using principles of engineering. Learning a wide variety of computer languages and gaining certifications can help job candidates stand out from the pack. Becoming a software developer is one of the more lucrative career paths a graduate can take, with this field expected to grow by 21% over the next 10 years.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $66,100
- Mid-career pay: $120,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 38%
An operations management and information major will have strong skills in design systems, research, learning strategies, oral and written communication, math, and science. After graduation, majors who focus on production and operations management and information services can become inventory managers, materials controllers, and risk analysts.
Canva- Early career pay: $66,100
- Mid-career pay: $120,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 38%
An operations management and information major will have strong skills in design systems, research, learning strategies, oral and written communication, math, and science. After graduation, majors who focus on production and operations management and information services can become inventory managers, materials controllers, and risk analysts.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $121,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
A bachelor’s degree in integrated science and technology holds several job titles, including software engineer and materials manager. After establishing a solid science foundation and its technology applications during the first two years of undergraduate studies, students then move on to more advanced learning, including applied biotechnology, environmental studies, production systems, networking, and telecommunications.
Canva- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $121,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
A bachelor’s degree in integrated science and technology holds several job titles, including software engineer and materials manager. After establishing a solid science foundation and its technology applications during the first two years of undergraduate studies, students then move on to more advanced learning, including applied biotechnology, environmental studies, production systems, networking, and telecommunications.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $76,900
- Mid-career pay: $121,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 53%
A degree in aeronautical/aerospace engineering technology teaches students the skills to design and build aircraft and spacecraft. Combining math, science, and engineering prepares graduates for careers in airframe design, logistics, or integration engineering. Growth in the field is projected to be sluggish due to the slowing of manufacturing.
Canva- Early career pay: $76,900
- Mid-career pay: $121,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 53%
A degree in aeronautical/aerospace engineering technology teaches students the skills to design and build aircraft and spacecraft. Combining math, science, and engineering prepares graduates for careers in airframe design, logistics, or integration engineering. Growth in the field is projected to be sluggish due to the slowing of manufacturing.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardastro_matt // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $70,900
- Mid-career pay: $121,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 67%
The study of biological systems and biomedical technologies, bioengineering is the leading concentration required to become a biomedical engineer. Students use math, engineering, and science to conduct experiments and design systems on a multidisciplinary level. This major is also available as a graduate degree, which leads to higher annual income.
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astro_matt // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $70,900
- Mid-career pay: $121,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 67%
The study of biological systems and biomedical technologies, bioengineering is the leading concentration required to become a biomedical engineer. Students use math, engineering, and science to conduct experiments and design systems on a multidisciplinary level. This major is also available as a graduate degree, which leads to higher annual income.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardWojciech Litwin // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $69,400
- Mid-career pay: $121,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
Ocean engineers study the relationship and interaction between engineered systems and bodies of water. Unlike oceanographers, who study natural occurrences, engineers design vessels and instruments to explore the depths of the oceans, which are less understood than the surface of Mars. Knowledge of robotic design, underwater acoustics, and geomechanics are just a few of the skills graduates attain.
Wojciech Litwin // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $69,400
- Mid-career pay: $121,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
Ocean engineers study the relationship and interaction between engineered systems and bodies of water. Unlike oceanographers, who study natural occurrences, engineers design vessels and instruments to explore the depths of the oceans, which are less understood than the surface of Mars. Knowledge of robotic design, underwater acoustics, and geomechanics are just a few of the skills graduates attain.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $69,900
- Mid-career pay: $121,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 59%
A bachelor’s degree in engineering prepares students for a life designing, inspecting, and testing a wide variety of products, from airports to zippers. The median salary for an engineer in 2020 was $83,160. The demand for well-trained engineers is expected to accelerate in the coming years, as the country looks to update infrastructure and develop new energy systems.
Canva- Early career pay: $69,900
- Mid-career pay: $121,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 59%
A bachelor’s degree in engineering prepares students for a life designing, inspecting, and testing a wide variety of products, from airports to zippers. The median salary for an engineer in 2020 was $83,160. The demand for well-trained engineers is expected to accelerate in the coming years, as the country looks to update infrastructure and develop new energy systems.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $67,100
- Mid-career pay: $121,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Materials science majors study materials such as rubbers, metals, and glass, and look for ways to strengthen them or bind them together to form stronger substances. Semiconductor manufacturing is among the most lucrative jobs for a materials scientist, while research and development employ the most professionals in the field. A large part of the curriculum is chemistry, which is used to study material at its most basic level to alter it to suit a need.
Canva- Early career pay: $67,100
- Mid-career pay: $121,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Materials science majors study materials such as rubbers, metals, and glass, and look for ways to strengthen them or bind them together to form stronger substances. Semiconductor manufacturing is among the most lucrative jobs for a materials scientist, while research and development employ the most professionals in the field. A large part of the curriculum is chemistry, which is used to study material at its most basic level to alter it to suit a need.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $76,800
- Mid-career pay: $121,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
Fusing molecular biology, biophysical chemistry, and chemical engineering to create new products is the main area of expertise for a chemical and biomolecular engineer. Biomolecular engineers have a hand in everything, from life-saving pharmaceuticals to innovations in the food industry. This field is expected to see steady growth over the next decade.
Canva- Early career pay: $76,800
- Mid-career pay: $121,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
Fusing molecular biology, biophysical chemistry, and chemical engineering to create new products is the main area of expertise for a chemical and biomolecular engineer. Biomolecular engineers have a hand in everything, from life-saving pharmaceuticals to innovations in the food industry. This field is expected to see steady growth over the next decade.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $68,300
- Mid-career pay: $122,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 40%
Students in applied mathematics will learn how to use equations in their studies to find solutions to engineering and science problems. The field is expected to explode over the next decade, growing at a rate of 30%, bolstered by a surge in data storage. There are a wide range of fields to enter upon graduation, including finance, business, engineering, and government.
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Shutterstock- Early career pay: $68,300
- Mid-career pay: $122,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 40%
Students in applied mathematics will learn how to use equations in their studies to find solutions to engineering and science problems. The field is expected to explode over the next decade, growing at a rate of 30%, bolstered by a surge in data storage. There are a wide range of fields to enter upon graduation, including finance, business, engineering, and government.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardindukas // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $67,900
- Mid-career pay: $122,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 45%
Engineering science alumni become researchers, electronic technicians, and field engineers, among other related occupations. Common major courses include cell and molecular biology, nanoengineering, quantum electronics, and thermodynamics of materials. Engineering science graduates are guaranteed employment in several states, including Washington, Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
indukas // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $67,900
- Mid-career pay: $122,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 45%
Engineering science alumni become researchers, electronic technicians, and field engineers, among other related occupations. Common major courses include cell and molecular biology, nanoengineering, quantum electronics, and thermodynamics of materials. Engineering science graduates are guaranteed employment in several states, including Washington, Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $56,000
- Mid-career pay: $122,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 50%
Aeronautical Science and Engineering majors study the science of flight. Program alumni most often become pilots or engineers focused on the design and construction of aircraft. Those who choose to pursue a career as a pilot must also take separate lessons to earn a pilot’s license.
Canva- Early career pay: $56,000
- Mid-career pay: $122,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 50%
Aeronautical Science and Engineering majors study the science of flight. Program alumni most often become pilots or engineers focused on the design and construction of aircraft. Those who choose to pursue a career as a pilot must also take separate lessons to earn a pilot’s license.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $81,800
- Mid-career pay: $122,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 61%
Transforming metal from ore into finished material falls under the direction of a metallurgical engineer. A subset of materials engineering, metallurgists can enhance their job prospects by taking computer modeling classes or gaining certifications. The field is expected to see little to no growth in the next decade—especially in manufacturing—while new medical and scientific products will help keep metallurgical engineers in demand.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $81,800
- Mid-career pay: $122,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 61%
Transforming metal from ore into finished material falls under the direction of a metallurgical engineer. A subset of materials engineering, metallurgists can enhance their job prospects by taking computer modeling classes or gaining certifications. The field is expected to see little to no growth in the next decade—especially in manufacturing—while new medical and scientific products will help keep metallurgical engineers in demand.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $63,200
- Mid-career pay: $122,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
Efficiency is the primary goal of a graduate with a degree in business analysis, from improving software to streamlining production processes. The need for these professionals is expected to grow rapidly in the next decade—especially within the health care and IT fields—as more businesses look to control costs. Successful graduates take a range of classes, including math, business, finance, and IT.
Canva- Early career pay: $63,200
- Mid-career pay: $122,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
Efficiency is the primary goal of a graduate with a degree in business analysis, from improving software to streamlining production processes. The need for these professionals is expected to grow rapidly in the next decade—especially within the health care and IT fields—as more businesses look to control costs. Successful graduates take a range of classes, including math, business, finance, and IT.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $57,700
- Mid-career pay: $122,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Pharmacology majors become clinical research associates, staff nurses, and pharmacist technicians, among other related occupations. Drug interaction study involves several courses, including toxicology, pharmacokinetics, biochemical proliferation and differentiation, and apoptosis. The three top states for pharmacology majors are Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Alaska.
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Canva- Early career pay: $57,700
- Mid-career pay: $122,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Pharmacology majors become clinical research associates, staff nurses, and pharmacist technicians, among other related occupations. Drug interaction study involves several courses, including toxicology, pharmacokinetics, biochemical proliferation and differentiation, and apoptosis. The three top states for pharmacology majors are Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Alaska.
You may also like: 50 best colleges on the West Coast
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $69,700
- Mid-career pay: $122,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 61%
Control engineers combine math and mechanical engineering to design and implement automation or processing systems. Upon graduation, passing an exam to become an engineer-in-training is a must to get started. Control engineering is an offshoot of mechanical engineering, a field that is predicted to grow by 4% over the next decade. Keeping up with technological advances can help prospective employment.
Canva- Early career pay: $69,700
- Mid-career pay: $122,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 61%
Control engineers combine math and mechanical engineering to design and implement automation or processing systems. Upon graduation, passing an exam to become an engineer-in-training is a must to get started. Control engineering is an offshoot of mechanical engineering, a field that is predicted to grow by 4% over the next decade. Keeping up with technological advances can help prospective employment.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $67,400
- Mid-career pay: $122,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
Electronics engineering covers the design and manufacturing of electronic devices, from smartphones and televisions, to GPS systems and portable music players. The curriculum will encompass math, physics, circuit theory, and systems design, opening the graduate up for jobs in computers and government, among others. While the career path is expected to grow more slowly than average over the next 10 years, the research and development of new technologies will drive much of that growth.
Canva- Early career pay: $67,400
- Mid-career pay: $122,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
Electronics engineering covers the design and manufacturing of electronic devices, from smartphones and televisions, to GPS systems and portable music players. The curriculum will encompass math, physics, circuit theory, and systems design, opening the graduate up for jobs in computers and government, among others. While the career path is expected to grow more slowly than average over the next 10 years, the research and development of new technologies will drive much of that growth.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $59,300
- Mid-career pay: $123,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Finding and buying land rights for oil and natural gas companies falls under the purview of petroleum land management. Professionals in this field discover ownership rights and negotiate leases or purchases for the purpose of drilling for oil. Knowing how to read zoning maps and investigate property deeds are two skills petroleum land managers will learn.
Canva- Early career pay: $59,300
- Mid-career pay: $123,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Finding and buying land rights for oil and natural gas companies falls under the purview of petroleum land management. Professionals in this field discover ownership rights and negotiate leases or purchases for the purpose of drilling for oil. Knowing how to read zoning maps and investigate property deeds are two skills petroleum land managers will learn.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $49,200
- Mid-career pay: $123,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Bioscience encompasses several majors, including marine biology, animal science, and biomedical engineering. Separating organic and inorganic solutions and DNA extraction are just two skills graduates will have, on top of extensive math, science, and lab work. Graduates can find work in a variety of fields, including genetic counseling, pharmaceutical sales, biochemistry, and more.
Canva- Early career pay: $49,200
- Mid-career pay: $123,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Bioscience encompasses several majors, including marine biology, animal science, and biomedical engineering. Separating organic and inorganic solutions and DNA extraction are just two skills graduates will have, on top of extensive math, science, and lab work. Graduates can find work in a variety of fields, including genetic counseling, pharmaceutical sales, biochemistry, and more.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $75,100
- Mid-career pay: $123,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%
Computer science majors delve into the world of designing, developing, and applying computer software. Software development is a common career for a graduate with a computer science degree, a field that is expected to grow at 21% over the next decade, about four times the national average. A four-year degree will prepare grads with advanced math skills in calculus, statistics, and algorithms, as well as a slew of computer courses, including computer theory, information management, and design physics.
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Canva- Early career pay: $75,100
- Mid-career pay: $123,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%
Computer science majors delve into the world of designing, developing, and applying computer software. Software development is a common career for a graduate with a computer science degree, a field that is expected to grow at 21% over the next decade, about four times the national average. A four-year degree will prepare grads with advanced math skills in calculus, statistics, and algorithms, as well as a slew of computer courses, including computer theory, information management, and design physics.
You may also like: 30 college majors that didn’t exist 50 years ago
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $56,500
- Mid-career pay: $123,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 36%
While reaching the stars from a salary standpoint requires a doctorate, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in physics and astronomy can find work in a variety of fields, both within the government and private sectors. Coursework includes extensive math, statistics, and science training to learn how matter interacts with energy.
Canva- Early career pay: $56,500
- Mid-career pay: $123,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 36%
While reaching the stars from a salary standpoint requires a doctorate, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in physics and astronomy can find work in a variety of fields, both within the government and private sectors. Coursework includes extensive math, statistics, and science training to learn how matter interacts with energy.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardUC Davis College of Engineering // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $71,300
- Mid-career pay: $123,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 72%
A degree in biomedical engineering entails taking many of the same courses needed to graduate from medical school. Biomedical engineering students can take several paths within the discipline, including medical imaging, nanotechnologies, genetic engineering, or prosthetics. An increasing aging population will help increase the demand for biomedical engineers.
UC Davis College of Engineering // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $71,300
- Mid-career pay: $123,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 72%
A degree in biomedical engineering entails taking many of the same courses needed to graduate from medical school. Biomedical engineering students can take several paths within the discipline, including medical imaging, nanotechnologies, genetic engineering, or prosthetics. An increasing aging population will help increase the demand for biomedical engineers.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardPetekub // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $123,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 41%
Up to 6,270 managerial economic degrees were awarded during the U.S. 2018–2019 college year, making the major the 110th most popular. Courses for the major include accounting, calculus, econometrics, financial markets, economics of regulation, international trade, and money and banking. Graduates of the major find careers as financial managers and analysts, executive directors, and economists.
Petekub // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $123,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 41%
Up to 6,270 managerial economic degrees were awarded during the U.S. 2018–2019 college year, making the major the 110th most popular. Courses for the major include accounting, calculus, econometrics, financial markets, economics of regulation, international trade, and money and banking. Graduates of the major find careers as financial managers and analysts, executive directors, and economists.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardGaudiLab // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $68,200
- Mid-career pay: $124,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 35%
Mathematical economists solve complex economic problems using principles of algebra, calculus, and statistics, and form models to predict future performance. Mathematical economists rely on quantitative methods, and advanced knowledge of computer modeling can help set job candidates apart when looking for work in finance, government, or education.
GaudiLab // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $68,200
- Mid-career pay: $124,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 35%
Mathematical economists solve complex economic problems using principles of algebra, calculus, and statistics, and form models to predict future performance. Mathematical economists rely on quantitative methods, and advanced knowledge of computer modeling can help set job candidates apart when looking for work in finance, government, or education.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $73,100
- Mid-career pay: $124,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
Industrial and systems engineering students specifically focus on productivity and quality improvement. They improve a business’ workflow by looking at people, product, and process to maximize efficiency. Employment in this sector is expected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2021, a rate above the national average, thanks to growing needs in the health care and automation industries.
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Canva- Early career pay: $73,100
- Mid-career pay: $124,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
Industrial and systems engineering students specifically focus on productivity and quality improvement. They improve a business’ workflow by looking at people, product, and process to maximize efficiency. Employment in this sector is expected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2021, a rate above the national average, thanks to growing needs in the health care and automation industries.
You may also like: The most conservative public colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $70,500
- Mid-career pay: $125,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
Combining computer science and mathematics can lead to a lucrative career as a software developer, programmer, or research scientist. The job outlook for these majors is fairly strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting 16% growth for researchers, and 21% for developers. Additional certifications can help enhance job prospects and boost starting salary.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $70,500
- Mid-career pay: $125,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
Combining computer science and mathematics can lead to a lucrative career as a software developer, programmer, or research scientist. The job outlook for these majors is fairly strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting 16% growth for researchers, and 21% for developers. Additional certifications can help enhance job prospects and boost starting salary.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $66,600
- Mid-career pay: $125,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
Astronomy majors prepare to unlock the mysteries of the universe, and unlike most sciences where lab work is imperative, astronomers use mostly observation and math. Skills in physics, cosmology, and math are needed to observe, chart, and track celestial bodies as they move across the night sky. A bachelor’s degree in astronomy points graduates toward careers in fields like telescope operator or research assistant, while a doctorate is generally preferred to work in an academic setting as an astronomer.
Canva- Early career pay: $66,600
- Mid-career pay: $125,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
Astronomy majors prepare to unlock the mysteries of the universe, and unlike most sciences where lab work is imperative, astronomers use mostly observation and math. Skills in physics, cosmology, and math are needed to observe, chart, and track celestial bodies as they move across the night sky. A bachelor’s degree in astronomy points graduates toward careers in fields like telescope operator or research assistant, while a doctorate is generally preferred to work in an academic setting as an astronomer.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardESO // Wikimedia Commons
- Early career pay: $71,000
- Mid-career pay: $125,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
A major in optical science and engineering goes on to a career in optical design, fabrication, instrumentation, and communications. Optical engineers must have strong skills in math, physics, manual dexterity, and problem-solving. They should also be versed in optical design/analysis tools, such as Zemax, Code V, or Trace Pro, and be able to use a variety of scientific and laboratory equipment.
ESO // Wikimedia Commons- Early career pay: $71,000
- Mid-career pay: $125,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
A major in optical science and engineering goes on to a career in optical design, fabrication, instrumentation, and communications. Optical engineers must have strong skills in math, physics, manual dexterity, and problem-solving. They should also be versed in optical design/analysis tools, such as Zemax, Code V, or Trace Pro, and be able to use a variety of scientific and laboratory equipment.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $74,000
- Mid-career pay: $125,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 37%
Helping businesses make smart financial decisions by analyzing data falls under the purview of graduates with degrees in quantitative business analysis. Careers in this type of finance are in high demand, with the ability to value securities, identify investment opportunities, and even develop computer software. Graduates with a degree in the field will have a strong command of mathematics and statistics, while advanced computer skills are becoming more important for finding a higher-paying job.
Canva- Early career pay: $74,000
- Mid-career pay: $125,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 37%
Helping businesses make smart financial decisions by analyzing data falls under the purview of graduates with degrees in quantitative business analysis. Careers in this type of finance are in high demand, with the ability to value securities, identify investment opportunities, and even develop computer software. Graduates with a degree in the field will have a strong command of mathematics and statistics, while advanced computer skills are becoming more important for finding a higher-paying job.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardGorodenkoff // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $74,300
- Mid-career pay: $125,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Aerospace engineering prepares graduates to design aircraft, including planes, missiles, and satellites. A downturn in manufacturing dampens the job outlook for graduates with an aerospace engineering degree, but a push toward the development of smaller satellites and unmanned aircraft should help offset that. Seeking additional training in computer languages, as well as structural engineering, can help job prospects.
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Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $74,300
- Mid-career pay: $125,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Aerospace engineering prepares graduates to design aircraft, including planes, missiles, and satellites. A downturn in manufacturing dampens the job outlook for graduates with an aerospace engineering degree, but a push toward the development of smaller satellites and unmanned aircraft should help offset that. Seeking additional training in computer languages, as well as structural engineering, can help job prospects.
You may also like: Most conservative colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $74,700
- Mid-career pay: $125,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
Learning how to design and manufacture electronic and electrical devices, along with computers and their components, is the goal of electrical and electronics engineering majors. Telecommunications, power generation, and the biomedical field are just a few of the career paths graduates can strive to attain. This job market is expected to slow in the next decade due to a downturn in manufacturing, but technological advancements and updates to the nation’s power grid should help offset losses.
Canva- Early career pay: $74,700
- Mid-career pay: $125,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
Learning how to design and manufacture electronic and electrical devices, along with computers and their components, is the goal of electrical and electronics engineering majors. Telecommunications, power generation, and the biomedical field are just a few of the career paths graduates can strive to attain. This job market is expected to slow in the next decade due to a downturn in manufacturing, but technological advancements and updates to the nation’s power grid should help offset losses.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $75,500
- Mid-career pay: $126,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 45%
Computational and applied mathematics involves creating and using mathematical models to solve complex science and engineering problems. A strong foundation in math, science, and engineering is required for a graduate to find success in a wide range of potential careers, including actuaries, forensic science, and teaching.
Canva- Early career pay: $75,500
- Mid-career pay: $126,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 45%
Computational and applied mathematics involves creating and using mathematical models to solve complex science and engineering problems. A strong foundation in math, science, and engineering is required for a graduate to find success in a wide range of potential careers, including actuaries, forensic science, and teaching.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $73,100
- Mid-career pay: $126,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Instrumentation and control engineering majors will learn how to measure and control variables like temperature, pressure, and flow in a system. Knowledge of mathematics and physics, as well as engineering, are critical for success in the field. While the job outlook for engineers is declining, instrumentation engineers are critical to setting up and maintaining automated systems, which are always in demand.
Canva- Early career pay: $73,100
- Mid-career pay: $126,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Instrumentation and control engineering majors will learn how to measure and control variables like temperature, pressure, and flow in a system. Knowledge of mathematics and physics, as well as engineering, are critical for success in the field. While the job outlook for engineers is declining, instrumentation engineers are critical to setting up and maintaining automated systems, which are always in demand.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $81,000
- Mid-career pay: $126,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
Using heat and pressure to fuse two pieces of metal into one as a welding engineer requires skills in computer design, math, and chemistry, among others. After graduating, four years of work experience is required before taking a state licensure exam to become a professional engineer. Joining professional organizations—such as the American Welding Society or the Edison Welding Institute—can enhance job prospects for entry-level candidates, who can find work in shipyards, oil rigs, or research laboratories.
Canva- Early career pay: $81,000
- Mid-career pay: $126,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
Using heat and pressure to fuse two pieces of metal into one as a welding engineer requires skills in computer design, math, and chemistry, among others. After graduating, four years of work experience is required before taking a state licensure exam to become a professional engineer. Joining professional organizations—such as the American Welding Society or the Edison Welding Institute—can enhance job prospects for entry-level candidates, who can find work in shipyards, oil rigs, or research laboratories.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $70,900
- Mid-career pay: $126,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 60%
Understanding how to build, fix, and maintain machinery falls to a mechanical engineer, while those who add aeronautical engineering to their major focus on airplanes, missiles, and weapons systems. Skills learned during this four-year degree include extensive math, physics, drafting, and computer courses. Both types of engineering are expected to grow at about the national average for the next decade, while combining the two can push a candidate to the top of the hiring list.
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Canva- Early career pay: $70,900
- Mid-career pay: $126,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 60%
Understanding how to build, fix, and maintain machinery falls to a mechanical engineer, while those who add aeronautical engineering to their major focus on airplanes, missiles, and weapons systems. Skills learned during this four-year degree include extensive math, physics, drafting, and computer courses. Both types of engineering are expected to grow at about the national average for the next decade, while combining the two can push a candidate to the top of the hiring list.
You may also like: Best value colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $71,100
- Mid-career pay: $127,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Training officer, deck cadet, merchant marine, third mate, and seaman are some of the job titles these college majors have. Marine and other transportation management jobs have been on the uprise since 2004, averaging 0.41% growth annually. ZipRecruiter reports marine transportation jobs and annual salary vary, noting career growth is directly related to skill and location.
Canva- Early career pay: $71,100
- Mid-career pay: $127,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Training officer, deck cadet, merchant marine, third mate, and seaman are some of the job titles these college majors have. Marine and other transportation management jobs have been on the uprise since 2004, averaging 0.41% growth annually. ZipRecruiter reports marine transportation jobs and annual salary vary, noting career growth is directly related to skill and location.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $75,600
- Mid-career pay: $127,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 54%
Electrical engineers design and maintain electrical equipment, and require extensive training in math, science, and engineering. Despite slower job growth than average, learning new technologies can give grads an advantage in the job market, as research and development provide steady work. Passing an exam to become an engineer-in-training is a must, while work experience and further state licensing are needed to become a professional engineer.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $75,600
- Mid-career pay: $127,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 54%
Electrical engineers design and maintain electrical equipment, and require extensive training in math, science, and engineering. Despite slower job growth than average, learning new technologies can give grads an advantage in the job market, as research and development provide steady work. Passing an exam to become an engineer-in-training is a must, while work experience and further state licensing are needed to become a professional engineer.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $54,800
- Mid-career pay: $127,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 36%
Earning a degree in foreign affairs earns students knowledge of the ins and outs of foreign and domestic policy, including trade policy and public relations. Graduates can seek careers in government as diplomats or intelligence officers, or in the private sector working for international banks or businesses. Additional language skills are a plus for graduates seeking to reach the top of the applicant list.
Canva- Early career pay: $54,800
- Mid-career pay: $127,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 36%
Earning a degree in foreign affairs earns students knowledge of the ins and outs of foreign and domestic policy, including trade policy and public relations. Graduates can seek careers in government as diplomats or intelligence officers, or in the private sector working for international banks or businesses. Additional language skills are a plus for graduates seeking to reach the top of the applicant list.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $76,400
- Mid-career pay: $129,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 62%
Designing and developing instruments and equipment related to the harnessing of nuclear power and radiation falls to nuclear engineering professionals. Graduates can find work with the government, in construction, or within the medical field, while a third are employed in electric power generation. Knowledge of computer programs, like LINUX, Oracle Java, and C++, among others, can enhance job prospects and pay.
Canva- Early career pay: $76,400
- Mid-career pay: $129,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 62%
Designing and developing instruments and equipment related to the harnessing of nuclear power and radiation falls to nuclear engineering professionals. Graduates can find work with the government, in construction, or within the medical field, while a third are employed in electric power generation. Knowledge of computer programs, like LINUX, Oracle Java, and C++, among others, can enhance job prospects and pay.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $72,800
- Mid-career pay: $129,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
When combined, mechanical and electrical engineering and computer science make up a mechatronics degree. As an engineering branch, the novel college major created in the 1960s teaches undergraduates how to build complicated systems. After graduation, college majors become mechatronics engineers, robotics engineers, and automation engineers.
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Canva- Early career pay: $72,800
- Mid-career pay: $129,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 48%
When combined, mechanical and electrical engineering and computer science make up a mechatronics degree. As an engineering branch, the novel college major created in the 1960s teaches undergraduates how to build complicated systems. After graduation, college majors become mechatronics engineers, robotics engineers, and automation engineers.
You may also like: Best value big colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $129,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Corporate accounting and finance majors primarily become financial managers for large-scale companies. Before becoming chief financial officers, graduates study capital budgeting, finance practicum, multinational financial management, and cost accounting, among other courses.
Canva- Early career pay: $65,200
- Mid-career pay: $129,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Corporate accounting and finance majors primarily become financial managers for large-scale companies. Before becoming chief financial officers, graduates study capital budgeting, finance practicum, multinational financial management, and cost accounting, among other courses.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $51,400
- Mid-career pay: $129,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 45%
Building launch-ready businesses are what entrepreneurship and marketing majors do best. Required skills include product development, merchandise management, and business planning. From bootstrapping to brand-building, majors must be able to take financial risks with their own business ventures to succeed. New venture formation and buyer behavior are examples of courses majors study to graduate.
Canva- Early career pay: $51,400
- Mid-career pay: $129,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 45%
Building launch-ready businesses are what entrepreneurship and marketing majors do best. Required skills include product development, merchandise management, and business planning. From bootstrapping to brand-building, majors must be able to take financial risks with their own business ventures to succeed. New venture formation and buyer behavior are examples of courses majors study to graduate.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardTawansak // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $74,400
- Mid-career pay: $130,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 49%
In the simplest terms, the naval architecture and marine engineering program focus on the design and construction of ships. Alumni will have an understanding of concepts like hydrodynamics, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, resistance and propulsion, and advanced engineering mathematics, among others. Alumni can find jobs in any industry involving floating vessels. According to Webb, a leading naval architecture and marine engineering program, their graduates have been hired by the U.S. Department of Energy, Carnival Cruise Lines, Chevron, and various military programs.
Tawansak // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $74,400
- Mid-career pay: $130,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 49%
In the simplest terms, the naval architecture and marine engineering program focus on the design and construction of ships. Alumni will have an understanding of concepts like hydrodynamics, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, resistance and propulsion, and advanced engineering mathematics, among others. Alumni can find jobs in any industry involving floating vessels. According to Webb, a leading naval architecture and marine engineering program, their graduates have been hired by the U.S. Department of Energy, Carnival Cruise Lines, Chevron, and various military programs.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $79,000
- Mid-career pay: $131,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
A computer engineering degree fuses computer science with electronic engineering, leaving grads equipped to design, develop, and monitor systems. As more common household products integrate computers and microchips, the demand for computer engineers promises to increase over the next decade despite the slowing of manufacturing. Math, science, keeping up with emerging technologies, and ongoing accreditation is imperative to getting ahead in the job market.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $79,000
- Mid-career pay: $131,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
A computer engineering degree fuses computer science with electronic engineering, leaving grads equipped to design, develop, and monitor systems. As more common household products integrate computers and microchips, the demand for computer engineers promises to increase over the next decade despite the slowing of manufacturing. Math, science, keeping up with emerging technologies, and ongoing accreditation is imperative to getting ahead in the job market.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $74,700
- Mid-career pay: $131,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%
Aeronautical engineers focus on aircraft, studying their design and the effects of aerodynamics on performance. A subset of aerospace engineering, this profession will see slow growth in the next decade as manufacturing declines, but advances in fuel technology and reduction of noise pollution should help employment numbers. Additional training in software like C++, along with a focus on structural engineering, can help job prospects.
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Canva- Early career pay: $74,700
- Mid-career pay: $131,100
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 66%
Aeronautical engineers focus on aircraft, studying their design and the effects of aerodynamics on performance. A subset of aerospace engineering, this profession will see slow growth in the next decade as manufacturing declines, but advances in fuel technology and reduction of noise pollution should help employment numbers. Additional training in software like C++, along with a focus on structural engineering, can help job prospects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $79,400
- Mid-career pay: $131,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
Combining computer science and engineering gets students ready for all aspects of building computer hardware and software. Focusing on software can offer better job prospects since the field is constantly changing, though hardware engineers make slightly more. Adding government clearances and professional certifications can enhance a graduate’s pay and chances of finding a job.
Canva- Early career pay: $79,400
- Mid-career pay: $131,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 44%
Combining computer science and engineering gets students ready for all aspects of building computer hardware and software. Focusing on software can offer better job prospects since the field is constantly changing, though hardware engineers make slightly more. Adding government clearances and professional certifications can enhance a graduate’s pay and chances of finding a job.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $79,900
- Mid-career pay: $131,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 60%
Marine engineering majors learn about all the internal components of a ship, from steering and power, to refrigeration and lighting. To graduate, students master aspects of calculus, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, and algebra. Over the next decade, there is a projected 1% growth rate for jobs as marine engineers, who often spend a semester on the water.
Canva- Early career pay: $79,900
- Mid-career pay: $131,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 60%
Marine engineering majors learn about all the internal components of a ship, from steering and power, to refrigeration and lighting. To graduate, students master aspects of calculus, chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, and algebra. Over the next decade, there is a projected 1% growth rate for jobs as marine engineers, who often spend a semester on the water.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $78,100
- Mid-career pay: $131,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 49%
Working on updated power grids, chemical sensors, and implantable devices are all tasks electrical and computer engineering majors perform. While the electrical side of the major teaches wireless communication and information processing, the computer side educates students on software verification and embedded systems. Job growth for the major until 2029 is expected to be 3%.
Canva- Early career pay: $78,100
- Mid-career pay: $131,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 49%
Working on updated power grids, chemical sensors, and implantable devices are all tasks electrical and computer engineering majors perform. While the electrical side of the major teaches wireless communication and information processing, the computer side educates students on software verification and embedded systems. Job growth for the major until 2029 is expected to be 3%.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $79,000
- Mid-career pay: $133,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
How computers integrate into business and personal lives is the most important function of a computer systems engineer. To do that, these majors learn to combine skills in math, computer science, and engineering to examine and test circuits, software, and hardware. A good portion of the professionals in this field work in California.
Canva- Early career pay: $79,000
- Mid-career pay: $133,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
How computers integrate into business and personal lives is the most important function of a computer systems engineer. To do that, these majors learn to combine skills in math, computer science, and engineering to examine and test circuits, software, and hardware. A good portion of the professionals in this field work in California.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $65,100
- Mid-career pay: $133,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 29%
A political economy degree program focuses on the intersection of politics, the economy, and how public policy is formed at that intersection. Some areas of career focus with this degree include social inequality, climate change, resource distribution, trade, and healthcare. Alumni often fill roles such as financial manager, lobbyist, and foreign policy specialist.
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Canva- Early career pay: $65,100
- Mid-career pay: $133,500
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 29%
A political economy degree program focuses on the intersection of politics, the economy, and how public policy is formed at that intersection. Some areas of career focus with this degree include social inequality, climate change, resource distribution, trade, and healthcare. Alumni often fill roles such as financial manager, lobbyist, and foreign policy specialist.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $67,700
- Mid-career pay: $134,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
Assessing risk within a particular industry falls under the purview of an actuarial science graduate, who uses math and statistics. Insurance companies are the primary employers of actuaries, who help create rates on premiums from life to car insurances. The field is expected to grow rapidly in the next decade, while adding business and analytics courses can help boost graduates’ prospects in what’s becoming a highly competitive job market.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $67,700
- Mid-career pay: $134,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 43%
Assessing risk within a particular industry falls under the purview of an actuarial science graduate, who uses math and statistics. Insurance companies are the primary employers of actuaries, who help create rates on premiums from life to car insurances. The field is expected to grow rapidly in the next decade, while adding business and analytics courses can help boost graduates’ prospects in what’s becoming a highly competitive job market.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $68,700
- Mid-career pay: $135,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%
Cognitive science involves studying how the brain processes information, learns, and behaves. A wide range of potential careers awaits those with a bachelor’s degree in cognitive science, including marketing and teaching, as well as game and web development. Attaining a master’s degree or doctorate in the field can greatly enhance job prospects by honing skills like psychology, biology, and chemistry.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $68,700
- Mid-career pay: $135,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 42%
Cognitive science involves studying how the brain processes information, learns, and behaves. A wide range of potential careers awaits those with a bachelor’s degree in cognitive science, including marketing and teaching, as well as game and web development. Attaining a master’s degree or doctorate in the field can greatly enhance job prospects by honing skills like psychology, biology, and chemistry.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $53,800
- Mid-career pay: $135,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 53%
Designing the next generation of buildings that meet the needs of safety, human comfort, and environmental demands is the goal of a building science major. This study combines the skills learned in architecture and construction management and building science majors can expect a job market projected to grow by 10% in the next decade. While a master’s degree is preferred to earn more, those with bachelor’s degrees will attain skills in economics, physics, and construction technology.
Canva- Early career pay: $53,800
- Mid-career pay: $135,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 53%
Designing the next generation of buildings that meet the needs of safety, human comfort, and environmental demands is the goal of a building science major. This study combines the skills learned in architecture and construction management and building science majors can expect a job market projected to grow by 10% in the next decade. While a master’s degree is preferred to earn more, those with bachelor’s degrees will attain skills in economics, physics, and construction technology.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $76,900
- Mid-career pay: $135,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Skills in math and multiple scientific disciplines are required for a career as a chemical engineer, and graduates will be prepared to tackle issues related to chemical manufacturing. Choosing to focus on a certain discipline, like nanomaterials or oxidation, can give job-seekers a bump in both prospects and pay, as the profession will grow at an average rate. A push toward domestic natural gas and oil will maintain the need for chemical engineers.
Canva- Early career pay: $76,900
- Mid-career pay: $135,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
Skills in math and multiple scientific disciplines are required for a career as a chemical engineer, and graduates will be prepared to tackle issues related to chemical manufacturing. Choosing to focus on a certain discipline, like nanomaterials or oxidation, can give job-seekers a bump in both prospects and pay, as the profession will grow at an average rate. A push toward domestic natural gas and oil will maintain the need for chemical engineers.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardKenSoftTH // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $55,800
- Mid-career pay: $136,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Some majors in aerospace studies are preparing for a life in the Air Force, as coursework falls under the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. Graduates are eligible to be commissioned as officers in the Air Force, which sought 3,500 officers to fill recruitment and instructor positions in 2019. Outside of recruiting or teaching, graduates learn about military planning, from developing national security policy to using air and spacecraft for strategic purposes.
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KenSoftTH // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $55,800
- Mid-career pay: $136,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
Some majors in aerospace studies are preparing for a life in the Air Force, as coursework falls under the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. Graduates are eligible to be commissioned as officers in the Air Force, which sought 3,500 officers to fill recruitment and instructor positions in 2019. Outside of recruiting or teaching, graduates learn about military planning, from developing national security policy to using air and spacecraft for strategic purposes.
You may also like: Best value private colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $68,600
- Mid-career pay: $138,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 78%
Becoming a full-fledged pharmacist requires a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate in pharmacy. Four-year grads undertake an intensive study of biology and chemistry, while learning about the production and manufacture of pharmaceuticals. The need for professionals in this field is expected to increase rapidly over the next decade, as a growing elderly population creates a rise in demand within the health care industry.
Canva- Early career pay: $68,600
- Mid-career pay: $138,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 78%
Becoming a full-fledged pharmacist requires a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate in pharmacy. Four-year grads undertake an intensive study of biology and chemistry, while learning about the production and manufacture of pharmaceuticals. The need for professionals in this field is expected to increase rapidly over the next decade, as a growing elderly population creates a rise in demand within the health care industry.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $64,200
- Mid-career pay: $139,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 35%
Econometrics entails using existing financial data to either test existing economic hypotheses or predict future performance. Graduates can find work in a variety of fields, including banking, investment, government, and academics, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting above-average job growth in the next decade.
Canva- Early career pay: $64,200
- Mid-career pay: $139,000
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 35%
Econometrics entails using existing financial data to either test existing economic hypotheses or predict future performance. Graduates can find work in a variety of fields, including banking, investment, government, and academics, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting above-average job growth in the next decade.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $77,700
- Mid-career pay: $139,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 53%
Systems engineers will finish their four-year degree with the ability to build and manage complex systems, including people, equipment, and software for a variety of businesses. Aside from strong interpersonal and management skills, a systems engineer will possess high mathematics and information security acumen. The International Council on Systems Engineering offers a number of certifications for graduates to enhance their job prospects in this growing field.
Canva- Early career pay: $77,700
- Mid-career pay: $139,200
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 53%
Systems engineers will finish their four-year degree with the ability to build and manage complex systems, including people, equipment, and software for a variety of businesses. Aside from strong interpersonal and management skills, a systems engineer will possess high mathematics and information security acumen. The International Council on Systems Engineering offers a number of certifications for graduates to enhance their job prospects in this growing field.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardALPA PROD // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $77,600
- Mid-career pay: $139,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
Aeronautics and astronautics involve learning the design, manufacturing, and testing of everything that flies in the skies (aeronautics), and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere (astronautics). The job outlook for graduates with a degree in the field is average, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 3% growth by 2029. Proficiency in math, science, and engineering is a must for obtaining an entry-level position, while additional training in computer software can enhance an applicant’s prospects.
ALPA PROD // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $77,600
- Mid-career pay: $139,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 56%
Aeronautics and astronautics involve learning the design, manufacturing, and testing of everything that flies in the skies (aeronautics), and beyond the Earth’s atmosphere (astronautics). The job outlook for graduates with a degree in the field is average, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 3% growth by 2029. Proficiency in math, science, and engineering is a must for obtaining an entry-level position, while additional training in computer software can enhance an applicant’s prospects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $58,600
- Mid-career pay: $140,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 62%
Using both concrete and abstract principles, information and computer science majors learn to solve problems and explore new areas using computers. Graduates will leave school with the ability to create algorithms, understand different programming languages, and utilize artificial intelligence, data mining, and security skills. The need for these professionals is expected to grow at a rate well above the national average, although obtaining a master’s degree is a wise choice to further enhance job prospects.
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Canva- Early career pay: $58,600
- Mid-career pay: $140,900
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 62%
Using both concrete and abstract principles, information and computer science majors learn to solve problems and explore new areas using computers. Graduates will leave school with the ability to create algorithms, understand different programming languages, and utilize artificial intelligence, data mining, and security skills. The need for these professionals is expected to grow at a rate well above the national average, although obtaining a master’s degree is a wise choice to further enhance job prospects.
You may also like: 100 best community colleges in America
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $76,100
- Mid-career pay: $142,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 68%
Designing, manufacturing, and maintaining electrical equipment are the fields of expertise for graduates with electrical power engineering degrees. A downturn in manufacturing and telecommunications will have an adverse effect on job prospects in the next decade, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting only 3% growth. Students can get ahead by completing internships, and will have to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam to become an engineer-in-training, while further work experience is needed before becoming a professional engineer.
Canva- Early career pay: $76,100
- Mid-career pay: $142,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 68%
Designing, manufacturing, and maintaining electrical equipment are the fields of expertise for graduates with electrical power engineering degrees. A downturn in manufacturing and telecommunications will have an adverse effect on job prospects in the next decade, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting only 3% growth. Students can get ahead by completing internships, and will have to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam to become an engineer-in-training, while further work experience is needed before becoming a professional engineer.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardTaLaNoVa // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $64,300
- Mid-career pay: $143,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
Actuaries use math and statistics to analyze and assess financial risk for a business, usually in the finance or insurance fields. The field is relatively small, but competitive, and is expected to explode in the next decade at a rate of 20%. Graduates who pass two actuarial exams and have gained valuable internship experience in college in addition to possessing exceptional business skills, will set themselves apart while seeking a job.
TaLaNoVa // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $64,300
- Mid-career pay: $143,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 51%
Actuaries use math and statistics to analyze and assess financial risk for a business, usually in the finance or insurance fields. The field is relatively small, but competitive, and is expected to explode in the next decade at a rate of 20%. Graduates who pass two actuarial exams and have gained valuable internship experience in college in addition to possessing exceptional business skills, will set themselves apart while seeking a job.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardGorodenkoff // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $73,000
- Mid-career pay: $143,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
A business computing degree prepares graduates to manage and leverage information systems to support a business. This may even require building new technology systems to maximize efficiency. Alumni of this degree program most often work in information technology roles.
Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $73,000
- Mid-career pay: $143,600
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: data not available%
A business computing degree prepares graduates to manage and leverage information systems to support a business. This may even require building new technology systems to maximize efficiency. Alumni of this degree program most often work in information technology roles.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $66,100
- Mid-career pay: $146,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 67%
Applied economics and management majors use economic models to predict financial outcomes based on the decisions of a business or individual. Micro and macroeconomics, statistics, advanced algebra, and finance are just a few of the skills necessary to succeed in the field, which is expected to see solid growth in the next decade. Graduates can find work in public policy, private business, and as financial planners, among other paths.
Canva- Early career pay: $66,100
- Mid-career pay: $146,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 67%
Applied economics and management majors use economic models to predict financial outcomes based on the decisions of a business or individual. Micro and macroeconomics, statistics, advanced algebra, and finance are just a few of the skills necessary to succeed in the field, which is expected to see solid growth in the next decade. Graduates can find work in public policy, private business, and as financial planners, among other paths.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $83,500
- Mid-career pay: $147,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 54%
The need for increased efficiency among businesses has the demand for operations research analysts projected to grow by 25% in the next decade. Students in the program will learn how to apply practical solutions to complex business problems, using math and statistical analysis to make informed decisions. Since these analysts are needed in a variety of business settings, adding additional specializations, like computer programming, political science, or economics can enhance job prospects.
You may also like: College majors that make the most money
Canva- Early career pay: $83,500
- Mid-career pay: $147,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 54%
The need for increased efficiency among businesses has the demand for operations research analysts projected to grow by 25% in the next decade. Students in the program will learn how to apply practical solutions to complex business problems, using math and statistical analysis to make informed decisions. Since these analysts are needed in a variety of business settings, adding additional specializations, like computer programming, political science, or economics can enhance job prospects.
You may also like: College majors that make the most money
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardShutterstock
- Early career pay: $59,800
- Mid-career pay: $147,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
Public accountants offer financial services to businesses and people, like preparing tax documents, auditing financial statements, and providing consulting services. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree isn’t enough to find a job in this growing field, as becoming a Certified Public Accountant requires passing an industry exam, ethics exam, and being supervised by a CPA for six months to two years.
Shutterstock- Early career pay: $59,800
- Mid-career pay: $147,700
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 47%
Public accountants offer financial services to businesses and people, like preparing tax documents, auditing financial statements, and providing consulting services. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree isn’t enough to find a job in this growing field, as becoming a Certified Public Accountant requires passing an industry exam, ethics exam, and being supervised by a CPA for six months to two years.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $68,300
- Mid-career pay: $155,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
The very best interaction design—the process of anticipating and facilitating behaviors between users and technology— is undetectable to the user. When you engage with technology through the click of a mouse or touch of your finger, that is the result of interaction design. When a website feels intuitive or responds to your natural behaviors, that, too, is interaction design. While interaction design is a critical component of UX design, or user experience, smaller companies may only hire a UX designer, a more all-encompassing title. Conversely, large companies often break out the components of UX into separate roles, including interaction designers, visual designers, and information architects.
Canva- Early career pay: $68,300
- Mid-career pay: $155,800
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 55%
The very best interaction design—the process of anticipating and facilitating behaviors between users and technology— is undetectable to the user. When you engage with technology through the click of a mouse or touch of your finger, that is the result of interaction design. When a website feels intuitive or responds to your natural behaviors, that, too, is interaction design. While interaction design is a critical component of UX design, or user experience, smaller companies may only hire a UX designer, a more all-encompassing title. Conversely, large companies often break out the components of UX into separate roles, including interaction designers, visual designers, and information architects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardCanva
- Early career pay: $108,500
- Mid-career pay: $159,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
There are a wide range of careers for a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and computer science that all involve knowing the workings of both software and hardware for electronic devices. Jobs with this degree vary, from software design for major companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google, to creating systems for the aeronautical field. A firm understanding of computer languages, mathematics, and logic are critical to success, while continued education and certifications can advance job prospects.
Canva- Early career pay: $108,500
- Mid-career pay: $159,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 46%
There are a wide range of careers for a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and computer science that all involve knowing the workings of both software and hardware for electronic devices. Jobs with this degree vary, from software design for major companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google, to creating systems for the aeronautical field. A firm understanding of computer languages, mathematics, and logic are critical to success, while continued education and certifications can advance job prospects.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardGorodenkoff // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $84,800
- Mid-career pay: $170,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 28%
Utilizing an operations research and industrial engineering degree means using mathematical models, statistical analysis, and real-time observations to design, optimize, and modify complex systems. Managing the flow of guests through an amusement park or scheduling a city’s bus routes are both examples of large scale and highly complex operational systems. As an industrial engineering and operations research degree holder, you can find work in a wide array of industries that require decisions to be made around safety, optimization, and efficiency, including transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and entertainment.
Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $84,800
- Mid-career pay: $170,400
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 28%
Utilizing an operations research and industrial engineering degree means using mathematical models, statistical analysis, and real-time observations to design, optimize, and modify complex systems. Managing the flow of guests through an amusement park or scheduling a city’s bus routes are both examples of large scale and highly complex operational systems. As an industrial engineering and operations research degree holder, you can find work in a wide array of industries that require decisions to be made around safety, optimization, and efficiency, including transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and entertainment.
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Man who had open-heart surgery wins a $1M lottery prize after receiving ticket in a get-well cardbranislavpudar // Shutterstock
- Early career pay: $93,200
- Mid-career pay: $187,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 67%
Finding and removing oil and natural gas from the Earth falls under the well-paid direction of petroleum engineers. They analyze, design, and implement plans for extraction when a reservoir is found, requiring skills in math, science, mechanical engineering, and physics. The push toward renewable and clean energy may have an adverse effect on job prospects for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering, though additional certifications and cooperative programs can boost job prospects.
You may also like: 30 famous people you didn’t know were college athletes
branislavpudar // Shutterstock- Early career pay: $93,200
- Mid-career pay: $187,300
- Share of alumni who say their work makes the world a better place: 67%
Finding and removing oil and natural gas from the Earth falls under the well-paid direction of petroleum engineers. They analyze, design, and implement plans for extraction when a reservoir is found, requiring skills in math, science, mechanical engineering, and physics. The push toward renewable and clean energy may have an adverse effect on job prospects for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering, though additional certifications and cooperative programs can boost job prospects.
You may also like: 30 famous people you didn’t know were college athletes
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022chainarong06 // Shutterstock
Shopping habits have changed dramatically over the last several decades.
In the '80s and '90s, shopping malls and big-box retailers reigned supreme. Outside of catalog and mail-order shopping options consumers had little choice but to venture out to stores to complete their purchases—and it wasn’t unusual for teenagers, couples, and families to spend their weekends browsing the chain stores at the local mall. Without competition from online retailers, brick-and-mortar shops were able to readily (and repeatedly) attract the coveted foot traffic they needed to turn a profit.
That is hardly the case these days. Widespread, affordable access to the internet has had a massive impact on how—and where—people shop. There are now countless shopping options at everyone’s fingertips, whether they’re looking for groceries, a new pair of jeans, or the latest beauty products. All it takes is a tap of a smartphone or the click of a keyboard to complete a purchase, no in-person shopping trip required.
The widespread availability of the web hasn’t just impacted how customers shop. It’s also had an impact on what they shop for and how they determine what products to buy. That’s because customer reviews are now readily accessible to shoppers on a wide range of websites and platforms and have become essential elements of completing online purchases.
But how, exactly, are these customer reviews impacting shopping decisions and why? To find out, Vocal Video compiled a list of eight ways that customer reviews have shaped how people shop for products online and how they help consumers make decisions about what to buy, using data from consumer surveys and e-commerce news releases.
chainarong06 // ShutterstockShopping habits have changed dramatically over the last several decades.
In the '80s and '90s, shopping malls and big-box retailers reigned supreme. Outside of catalog and mail-order shopping options consumers had little choice but to venture out to stores to complete their purchases—and it wasn’t unusual for teenagers, couples, and families to spend their weekends browsing the chain stores at the local mall. Without competition from online retailers, brick-and-mortar shops were able to readily (and repeatedly) attract the coveted foot traffic they needed to turn a profit.
That is hardly the case these days. Widespread, affordable access to the internet has had a massive impact on how—and where—people shop. There are now countless shopping options at everyone’s fingertips, whether they’re looking for groceries, a new pair of jeans, or the latest beauty products. All it takes is a tap of a smartphone or the click of a keyboard to complete a purchase, no in-person shopping trip required.
The widespread availability of the web hasn’t just impacted how customers shop. It’s also had an impact on what they shop for and how they determine what products to buy. That’s because customer reviews are now readily accessible to shoppers on a wide range of websites and platforms and have become essential elements of completing online purchases.
But how, exactly, are these customer reviews impacting shopping decisions and why? To find out, Vocal Video compiled a list of eight ways that customer reviews have shaped how people shop for products online and how they help consumers make decisions about what to buy, using data from consumer surveys and e-commerce news releases.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022Yuganov Konstantin // Shutterstock
Finding the best new products can be tough, but all it takes is the right hashtag or keyword on a social media site to be inundated with information on the products that other people are using. Take, for example, the massive popularity that beauty influencers have on TikTok. These influencers, who post their opinions on makeup or skin care products, have introduced millions of followers to new products and, in turn, steered their followers’ opinions on buying them.
User reviews on other social media sites such as YouTube have been just as successful at driving the discovery of new products, whether the niche is makeup, home goods, tools, or something else entirely. As such, one post can make or break the popularity of a new product and, in turn, can have a big impact on which new products shoppers choose to spend their money on.
Yuganov Konstantin // ShutterstockFinding the best new products can be tough, but all it takes is the right hashtag or keyword on a social media site to be inundated with information on the products that other people are using. Take, for example, the massive popularity that beauty influencers have on TikTok. These influencers, who post their opinions on makeup or skin care products, have introduced millions of followers to new products and, in turn, steered their followers’ opinions on buying them.
User reviews on other social media sites such as YouTube have been just as successful at driving the discovery of new products, whether the niche is makeup, home goods, tools, or something else entirely. As such, one post can make or break the popularity of a new product and, in turn, can have a big impact on which new products shoppers choose to spend their money on.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022GaudiLab // Shutterstock
Real customer feedback can be a gold mine of information, which is why the feedback posts from verified buyers on e-commerce sites matter so much. Nearly 100% of buyers will dig into product reviews to get the bigger picture about an item before completing a purchase. By reading the product reviews, buyers can find out whether other people have had issues with the product, or learn what they think are the upsides and potential drawbacks of the product. The reason product reviews can be so heavily relied on is because other buyers have no stake in the game—unlike the brands themselves. The people who write product reviews aren’t profiting off the sale of the product, which means that their reviews are seen as unbiased, genuine, and—most importantly—trustworthy.
GaudiLab // ShutterstockReal customer feedback can be a gold mine of information, which is why the feedback posts from verified buyers on e-commerce sites matter so much. Nearly 100% of buyers will dig into product reviews to get the bigger picture about an item before completing a purchase. By reading the product reviews, buyers can find out whether other people have had issues with the product, or learn what they think are the upsides and potential drawbacks of the product. The reason product reviews can be so heavily relied on is because other buyers have no stake in the game—unlike the brands themselves. The people who write product reviews aren’t profiting off the sale of the product, which means that their reviews are seen as unbiased, genuine, and—most importantly—trustworthy.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022Chaay_Tee // Shutterstock
Scrolling through image-heavy social media sites like Instagram can lead to impulse purchases, and it’s not the shiny advertisements that do it. What tends to drive shoppers from mindless browsing to actively shopping are the user-generated videos and photos of regular people using a brand’s products or wearing a brand’s clothing while doing everyday things, like traveling or working out. That’s because these types of posts put the focus on the person, not the product—and it feels more authentic than other types of brand campaigns.
Most people feel they can connect to regular people on social media—a lot more than they can connect to a model on a glossy magazine page, anyway—and they tend to seem more trustworthy, too. But user-generated content is not just a more genuine way for brands to pedal merchandise; it’s also extremely effective and can lead to significantly more purchases.
Chaay_Tee // ShutterstockScrolling through image-heavy social media sites like Instagram can lead to impulse purchases, and it’s not the shiny advertisements that do it. What tends to drive shoppers from mindless browsing to actively shopping are the user-generated videos and photos of regular people using a brand’s products or wearing a brand’s clothing while doing everyday things, like traveling or working out. That’s because these types of posts put the focus on the person, not the product—and it feels more authentic than other types of brand campaigns.
Most people feel they can connect to regular people on social media—a lot more than they can connect to a model on a glossy magazine page, anyway—and they tend to seem more trustworthy, too. But user-generated content is not just a more genuine way for brands to pedal merchandise; it’s also extremely effective and can lead to significantly more purchases.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022Casimiro PT // Shutterstock
Before there was easy access to customer reviews via the internet, a product’s price point often had a significant bearing on sales. Without unbiased user feedback to help form their opinions, many shoppers chose the cheapest option—even if it ended up being subpar to the alternatives. That is no longer the case, however, because price tags have taken a back seat to customer reviews.
These days, what other people think of a product or item is often more important than finding the item with the cheapest price, in large part because the value of a product can be weighed based on that unbiased user feedback. If a product has excellent feedback but a higher price tag, it’s more likely to be chosen over a cheaper product with poor feedback because the higher cost of the better item can be justified.
Casimiro PT // ShutterstockBefore there was easy access to customer reviews via the internet, a product’s price point often had a significant bearing on sales. Without unbiased user feedback to help form their opinions, many shoppers chose the cheapest option—even if it ended up being subpar to the alternatives. That is no longer the case, however, because price tags have taken a back seat to customer reviews.
These days, what other people think of a product or item is often more important than finding the item with the cheapest price, in large part because the value of a product can be weighed based on that unbiased user feedback. If a product has excellent feedback but a higher price tag, it’s more likely to be chosen over a cheaper product with poor feedback because the higher cost of the better item can be justified.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022Zilu8 // Shutterstock
Customer reviews aren’t just more important than the cost of an item, either. They’re also more important than other perks, such as free shipping—which will no longer justify the purchase of a subpar item. Companies once relied on free shipping to entice buyers to purchase items from their sites; with price no longer being the main driver of buying decisions, it makes sense that free shipping would now matter less, too.
Instead of saving a few extra bucks on shipping, it’s better to know that a product is going to do what it claims and that it’s worth the money spent on it. If the user reviews are negative or point out problems with the merchandise, adding in free shipping isn’t enough to overcome distrust of the product. And it’s not just negative reviews that are problematic: If the website doesn’t offer any access to user reviews, most shoppers will steer clear of the website entirely, even if they have to pay for shipping when using another site for their purchases.
Zilu8 // ShutterstockCustomer reviews aren’t just more important than the cost of an item, either. They’re also more important than other perks, such as free shipping—which will no longer justify the purchase of a subpar item. Companies once relied on free shipping to entice buyers to purchase items from their sites; with price no longer being the main driver of buying decisions, it makes sense that free shipping would now matter less, too.
Instead of saving a few extra bucks on shipping, it’s better to know that a product is going to do what it claims and that it’s worth the money spent on it. If the user reviews are negative or point out problems with the merchandise, adding in free shipping isn’t enough to overcome distrust of the product. And it’s not just negative reviews that are problematic: If the website doesn’t offer any access to user reviews, most shoppers will steer clear of the website entirely, even if they have to pay for shipping when using another site for their purchases.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022ronstik // Shutterstock
Whether looking for a new vacuum or a new TV, a product recommendation from a friend or family member will no longer cut it for most people.
Having access to websites with user reviews now carries more weight than recommendations from trusted friends. Shoppers want to know how a wider pool of buyers feels about the product—not just the opinion of a best friend or great aunt. Having more opinions available provides the needed trust and knowledge that a product is worth purchasing—and a website with a handful of reviews won’t do the trick. Nearly 70% of shoppers think that the ideal scenario is for a product to have 26 or more reviews—and the more recent the reviews are, the more trust in them, too.
ronstik // ShutterstockWhether looking for a new vacuum or a new TV, a product recommendation from a friend or family member will no longer cut it for most people.
Having access to websites with user reviews now carries more weight than recommendations from trusted friends. Shoppers want to know how a wider pool of buyers feels about the product—not just the opinion of a best friend or great aunt. Having more opinions available provides the needed trust and knowledge that a product is worth purchasing—and a website with a handful of reviews won’t do the trick. Nearly 70% of shoppers think that the ideal scenario is for a product to have 26 or more reviews—and the more recent the reviews are, the more trust in them, too.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022etonastenka // Shutterstock
User reviews clearly have a big impact on the products chosen to buy or steer clear of, but positive reviews can actually be a double-edged sword. About 46% of shoppers are suspicious when a product has an average star rating of five out of five—and that percentage is even higher among Generation Z, which is arguably one of the most digitally savvy generations.
When a product only has perfect reviews, it can be viewed as untrustworthy for appearing fake. No shopper wants to be duped by sellers, so if a product has user reviews that are both good and not-so-good, the process usually can be better trusted. In fact, 96% of consumers specifically look for negative user reviews—at least sometimes—and over half go so far as to seek out the one-star reviews in the mix. So, while companies may prefer to see only five-star product reviews, a few not-so-great reviews here or there can help bolster trust in the review process.
etonastenka // ShutterstockUser reviews clearly have a big impact on the products chosen to buy or steer clear of, but positive reviews can actually be a double-edged sword. About 46% of shoppers are suspicious when a product has an average star rating of five out of five—and that percentage is even higher among Generation Z, which is arguably one of the most digitally savvy generations.
When a product only has perfect reviews, it can be viewed as untrustworthy for appearing fake. No shopper wants to be duped by sellers, so if a product has user reviews that are both good and not-so-good, the process usually can be better trusted. In fact, 96% of consumers specifically look for negative user reviews—at least sometimes—and over half go so far as to seek out the one-star reviews in the mix. So, while companies may prefer to see only five-star product reviews, a few not-so-great reviews here or there can help bolster trust in the review process.
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What to buy (and skip) in January 2022Irina Shatilova // Shutterstock
Reliance on customer reviews has led to looking for juicy details regarding other people’s bad experiences on shopping platforms or products. What that means is that angry reviews can also steer shopping habits, leading consumers to be more hesitant to complete a transaction—even if they don’t perceive the review as being particularly helpful overall.
But it’s not just the angry reviews that drive shopping habits—it’s also the way that the company or seller responds to it. If it’s seen that the seller has reached out to the customer to address the issue in an adequate manner, less trust is lost. If the angry reviews aren’t addressed by the seller, shoppers may be wary of making a purchase because it could lead to a situation where they experience similar frustration or anger.
This story originally appeared on Vocal Video and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
Irina Shatilova // ShutterstockReliance on customer reviews has led to looking for juicy details regarding other people’s bad experiences on shopping platforms or products. What that means is that angry reviews can also steer shopping habits, leading consumers to be more hesitant to complete a transaction—even if they don’t perceive the review as being particularly helpful overall.
But it’s not just the angry reviews that drive shopping habits—it’s also the way that the company or seller responds to it. If it’s seen that the seller has reached out to the customer to address the issue in an adequate manner, less trust is lost. If the angry reviews aren’t addressed by the seller, shoppers may be wary of making a purchase because it could lead to a situation where they experience similar frustration or anger.
This story originally appeared on Vocal Video and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.