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.
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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.
As a result, nursing has become a lucrative career choice. Graduates can expect to see a 280.9% return on their investment within five years of entering the workforce.
4. Accounting (ROI: 261.3%)
The accounting profession is graying. According to the CPA Journal, the average age of an accounting firm partner is between 52 and 53.
At the same time, the pipeline of new talent is shrinking. From 2017 to 2022, the number of accounting graduates dropped by 11%, according to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
In other words, fewer accountants are entering the field, which makes the job both rarer and more valuable. New graduates can expect a 261.3% return on their degree within five years.
5. Biochemistry (ROI: 248.2%)
Job opportunities for biochemists and biophysicists are projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s more than double the average job growth rate of 4% across all occupations.
That strong demand translates to solid earnings potential. Recent graduates can recoup 248.2% of their college investment within five years, according to Student Choice.
If you’re looking for a degree with robust job security and solid financial returns, these five fields are worth serious consideration.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
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