TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - In a world where financial security often tops the list of life goals, it is no surprise that ambitious students are drawn to the highest-paying majors. The choices you make now not only shape your career but also plan your paycheck for years to come. Before committing to a major, it is crucial to stay updated on which fields are booming and which might be fading.
List of Highest-Paying Majors in 2025
Fortune and Best College hailed engineering and computer science as the highest-paying majors currently and for the following years. Several other top future-focused degrees to consider also include:
1. Finance - $110,000
For graduates seeking a fast track into the workforce, the financial sector offers a wealth of opportunities. What makes this field even more appealing is the versatility of its training. As a finance major, you'll dive into a rich curriculum covering everything from economics and statistics to portfolio management. These in-demand skills are not limited to certain cubicles but they are valued across industries, giving you the flexibility to chart your own career path.
2. Economics - $110,000
For decades, economics has long been a robust degree choice, and for good reason. Consistently ranked among the highest-paying majors, it opens doors to a variety of career paths that have \expanded in recent years. Whether it is shaping business strategies, diving into market trends, managing financial risk, or crunching data as an analyst, economics graduates find their skills in demand across both traditional and emerging sectors.
3. Mathematics - $100,000
Mathematics majors develop strong logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, which make them top contenders for high-demand roles like data scientists and market research analysts. Beyond the classroom, mathematics seamlessly integrates into fields like finance, marketing, tech, and more. It is no wonder major corporations actively seek out math graduates.
4. Engineering - $80,000
Engineering is a vast, multi-faceted world, such a dynamic field with branches as varied as computer, industrial, and biomedical engineering. Each specialty opens the door to a unique set of skills and real-world expertise. No matter which path you choose, engineering empowers you with the skills to tackle real-world challenges, innovate impactful solutions, and drive the progress of tomorrow.
5. Computer science - $80,000
Computer science remains the highest-paying major in 2025 for early-career dwellers, with a potential starting salary of $80,000. With graduates ready to step into roles like web developer, software engineer, or information security analyst, this major has become a hot favorite among employers. According to Coursera, its rising popularity boasts a steady annual growth rate of 8.7%, making it one of the fastest-growing and most sought-after fields in today’s tech-driven job market.
6. Business administration - $78,000
Recognized as one of today’s highest-paying degrees, business administration continues to attract students with its wide array of career opportunities. Students are trained to master the art of organization, planning, budgeting, decision-making, and operational oversight across all types of organizations. With popular specializations like accounting, finance, and international business, graduates of this major consistently make their mark as key players in the professional world.
7. Physics - $70,000
Physics majors engage in experiments, observations, and other analyses, that revolve around mathematical and computational tools. They are among the top-rated graduates who are eligible for employment in various sectors, including engineering, computer programming, manufacturing, and software design.
8. Nursing - $65,000
Across much of Asia, healthcare majors have a reputation for being rewarding fields of study, thanks to their promising career outlook. Today, nursing in particular has risen to the forefront, with graduates finding abundant opportunities in rapidly growing specialties such as neurology, oncology, obstetrics, pediatrics, and geriatrics. As populations age and medical advancements accelerate, nursing continues to cement its place as a career of both stability and purpose.
9. Accounting - $60,000
According to Forbes, careers in accounting and taxation rank among the highest in terms of job opportunities, with professionals in the field reporting strong satisfaction with their daily responsibilities. The industry also earns high marks for its workplace culture, reflecting a strong foundation of shared values. Notably, it stands out for promoting diversity and inclusivity, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of job seekers.
10. Biology - $47,000
As reported by the Association of American Medical Colleges, biology remains one of the most popular choices for students pursuing careers in medicine. Graduates can land a variety of roles, from research assistants and lab technicians to medical writers, all while laying the foundation for more advanced medical careers.
These highest-paying majors can indeed be your ticket to a fulfilling and financially secure career. The key is to align your passions with a field that offers growth, versatility, and demand. Still, with the salary talk, check also the best-paying jobs in finance here.
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