College Major Salary Calculator
About the College Major Salary Calculator
The College Major Salary Calculator is a tool that helps users compare average salaries by college major. It provides entry-level, mid-career, and peak earnings to help users choose their degree path. The calculator uses 2026 median earnings by major from BLS and Census ACS data and provides lifetime earnings projection at entered real salary growth and discount rates.
Assumptions and Limitations
The calculator assumes 2026 median earnings by major from BLS and Census ACS data and provides early career (25th–75th percentile) and mid-career earnings range shown by major. It also considers unemployment rate by major as additional context. However, the calculator notes that school premium, graduate degree requirement, regional variance, and industry path can affect salary projections.
Real-World Example
A mid-level software engineer in Austin, TX is comparing a $130,000 W-2 offer against their current $115,000 role. The new offer includes a $10,000 signing bonus and 0.1% equity in a Series B company. Using the calculator, the user can determine the net take-home gain (Year 1) and compare it to their current role.
When the Calculator is Wrong
The calculator notes that federal withholding estimates depend on W-4 elections and that state income tax is highly variable. It also mentions that benefits are excluded from most salary calculators and that self-employment adds 7.65% employer-side FICA.
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Salary Trends and Insights
Engineering, Computer Science, and Finance/Accounting consistently top the list of highest-paying majors. Petroleum Engineering and Computer Engineering often lead entry-level salaries at $70k+. However, career satisfaction, growth potential, and demand vary, and many liberal arts graduates outpace STEM peers through business roles.
Lowest-Paying Majors
Social work, early childhood education, fine arts, and religious studies have the lowest median starting salaries. However, advanced degrees and specialization in these fields can significantly increase earnings over time.
High-Paying Majors and ROI
Computer science graduates earn median starting salaries of $75,000-$85,000 and mid-career salaries of $120,000-$150,000. With average tuition of $40,000-$120,000 for a four-year degree, the ROI payback period is typically 1-3 years after graduation. Top-tier schools add 10-20% salary premium for the first 5-10 years.
Double Majors and Career Satisfaction
A double major rarely increases starting salary directly. However, combining a technical major with business can open higher-paying interdisciplinary roles. Research shows workers who enjoy their careers earn more long-term because they invest more in skill development and pursue promotions more aggressively.