These top 5 college degrees make young Americans the most money — earning some 326% returns after just 5 years
The value of a college degree is a hot topic right now, but many people overlook a key detail: the field of study.
Graduates who majored in social sciences, foreign languages or performing arts face weaker job prospects and lower earning potential after leaving college, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
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Meanwhile, students who pick up skills in fast-growing, high-paying industries can recoup their investment in just a few years.
Student Choice analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to estimate the return on investment (ROI) for various fields. The findings show that some degrees can pay back as much as 326.6% of the total cost of their degree within five years of graduation.
Here are the top five degrees that offer the best bang for your tuition buck.
1. Engineering (ROI: 326.6%)
Engineering faces a severe and growing talent shortage, according to analysis by BCG. In 2023 alone, one-third of newly created engineering roles went unfilled due to a lack of qualified graduates.
That shortage is expected to continue. BCG estimates engineering jobs could grow another 13% between 2023 and 2031.
This high demand helps explain why engineers command strong salaries and deliver a whopping 326.6% return on investment within five years of earning their degree.
2. Computer science or information technology (ROI: 310.3%)
Despite fears that AI might replace coders and developers, the rise of new technologies is actually driving up demand for skilled talent.
A 2025 survey from staffing firm Robert Half found that 87% of technology leaders struggle to hire qualified professionals, while 76% reported a skills gap in their own departments.
In-demand specialties include AI, automation, cybersecurity, and cloud operations. A graduate in computer science or IT can expect to earn back 310.3% of their education costs within five years, according to Student Choice.
Read more: Americans are ‘revenge saving’ to survive — but millions only get a measly 1% on their savings. Here’s how to quickly earn 280% more on your cash
3. Nursing (ROI: 280.9%)
There’s a global shortage of nurses. The International Council of Nurses (ICN) estimates the current shortfall at 5.9 million nurses and warns that aging populations and underfunded health systems could make it worse.
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