Top-Paying STEM Careers: Highest Salaries by Field

Educators have long encouraged careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The term “STEM” was popularized in 2001 and today these fields offer diverse, high-demand career paths worldwide.

Job prospects in STEM have shifted considerably over the past decade as new technologies and scientific advances have created roles that previous generations could not have imagined. Many STEM careers now pay well and offer strong growth potential. While a bachelor’s degree is sufficient for many positions, advanced degrees and professional certifications can boost employability and earning potential.

Note: Salary and job projections cited are based on figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Median salaries reflect the latest available data for 2018, and projected job counts are estimates for 2028 (or other years specified by BLS sources).

52. Chemist

Median salary: $76,890

Projected jobs in the future: 90,900

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Chemistry

Overview: Chemists study substances at the atomic and molecular level to develop and improve products and to test quality. They investigate structure, properties and interactions of matter and often specialize in areas such as analytical, organic, inorganic, forensic, medicinal, physical or theoretical chemistry.

51. Agricultural Engineer

Median salary: $77,110

Projected jobs in the future: 2,800

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Agricultural engineering, biological engineering

Overview: Agricultural engineers apply engineering principles to farming, forestry and food processing. They address power systems, equipment, structures, environmental concerns and processing/storage of agricultural products, often seeking ways to boost productivity, increase efficiency and reduce waste. Many now integrate technologies such as AI and geospatial systems in their solutions.

50. Psychologist

Median salary: $79,010

Projected jobs in the future: 207,800

Required degree: Ph.D.

Best college major: Psychology

Overview: Psychologists study cognitive, emotional and social behavior to address mental health and improve how people relate to each other and their environments. Specialties include clinical, counseling, industrial/organizational, school and forensic psychology.

49. Genetic Counselor

Median salary: $80,370

Projected jobs in the future: 3,800

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Genetic counseling, genetics

Overview: Genetic counselors analyze genetic information to identify disorders, predict disease risk and guide family planning. Many focus on prenatal, pediatric or cancer genetics and may further specialize in areas such as genomic medicine, cardiovascular genetics or neurogenetics. Demand grows as genetic testing becomes more accessible and reliable.

48. Geographer

Median salary: $80,300

Projected jobs in the future: 1,600

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Geography

Overview: Geographers study Earth’s physical features and human-environment interactions. GIS certification and familiarity with mapping and spatial-analysis technologies are valuable. Some focus on human geography—examining economic, cultural, medical, social or political patterns—often using statistical analysis and fieldwork.

47. Computer Systems Administrator

Median salary: $82,050

Projected jobs in the future: 402,100

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, information science, computer engineering

Overview: Systems administrators install, configure and maintain computer systems and networks, ensuring uptime and performance. Their skills are in demand across industries that rely on technology.

46. Management Analyst

Median salary: $83,610

Projected jobs in the future: 994,600

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Business, economics, accounting, psychology, computer science, information science

Overview: Management analysts advise organizations on improving efficiency, reducing costs and increasing revenue. They collect and analyze data, propose solutions, and help implement and evaluate changes. Analysts may be in-house or work as external consultants and often specialize by industry or function.

45. Computer Programmer

Median salary: $84,280

Projected jobs in the future: 232,400 (declining)

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science

Overview: Programmers write and test code for software applications, working closely with developers and engineers to implement functionality and debug issues. While demand varies across industries, programmers for software publishers often earn more.

44. Financial Analyst

Median salary: $84,300

Projected jobs in the future: 32,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Math, statistics, economics, accounting, finance

Overview: Financial analysts evaluate investments like stocks and bonds to make recommendations for businesses and individuals. Many specialize by industry or product type and work for banks, investment firms or insurance companies.

43. Civil Engineer

Median salary: $86,640

Projected jobs in the future: 347,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Civil engineering, civil engineering technology

Overview: Civil engineers design and construct infrastructure—bridges, roads, tunnels, airports, buildings and water systems. They work in planning, design, construction and public outreach, and may specialize in structural, transportation, geotechnical or construction engineering.

42. Industrial Engineer

Median salary: $87,040

Projected jobs in the future: 308,400

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Industrial engineering

Overview: Industrial engineers optimize systems that combine people, materials, machines, information and energy to minimize waste and cost while maximizing efficiency and safety. Manufacturing engineers focus on automation, robotics and optimizing production networks.

41. Mechanical Engineer

Median salary: $87,370

Projected jobs in the future: 325,700

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Mechanical engineering, mechanical engineering technology

Overview: Mechanical engineers design, build and test mechanical systems and machinery used across industries. This broad field includes work on products from batteries to large manufacturing systems, and offers opportunities across many sectors.

40. Environmental Engineer

Median salary: $87,620

Projected jobs in the future: 58,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Environmental engineering

Overview: Environmental engineers apply engineering, soil science, biology and chemistry to address pollution, waste disposal, public health and sustainability. They work on climate-related issues and often have fieldwork opportunities.

39. Statistician

Median salary: $87,780

Projected jobs in the future: 58,000

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Statistics, mathematics, economics, computer science

Overview: Statisticians design surveys and experiments, analyze sampled data, evaluate validity and account for errors. They use specialized software and often collaborate on developing analytical tools.

38. Biomedical Engineer

Median salary: $88,550

Projected jobs in the future: 20,500

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Engineering, bioengineering

Overview: Biomedical engineers design devices, instruments and software for healthcare—ranging from diagnostic tools to prosthetics and surgical robots. The field blends engineering with biological science to improve patient outcomes.

37. Computer Systems Analyst

Median salary: $88,740

Projected jobs in the future: 689,900

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, information science

Overview: Systems analysts evaluate how technology supports organizational goals and recommend improvements. Roles include quality assurance, programmer-analyst and specialized system analysts within industries like finance or engineering.

36. Database Administrator

Median salary: $90,070

Projected jobs in the future: 127,400

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, information science

Overview: Database administrators design, organize and secure data systems so users and analysts can access reliable information. They implement security measures to protect sensitive data and often need expertise in multiple database languages and platforms.

35. Geoscientist

Median salary: $91,130

Projected jobs in the future: 32,800

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Geosciences, environmental science, engineering

Overview: Geoscientists study Earth’s composition, structure and processes using fieldwork and remote sensing. They may work on natural resource development, environmental protection or research in specialties such as seismology, petroleum geology or oceanography.

34. Materials Engineer

Median salary: $92,390

Projected jobs in the future: 27,700

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Materials science, engineering

Overview: Materials engineers analyze and develop materials to meet product requirements—improving strength, durability or cost-effectiveness. They work across industries, with high demand in aerospace and research & development.

33. Marine Engineer and Naval Architect

Median salary: $92,560

Projected jobs in the future: 12,700

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Marine engineering, naval architecture, mechanical or electrical engineering

Overview: Naval architects design ship structures while marine engineers focus on internal systems—propulsion, electrical, steering and refrigeration. They also work on offshore platforms and wind turbines, an area with growing demand tied to alternative energy.

32. Biochemist/Biophysicist

Median salary: $93,280

Projected jobs in the future: 32,300

Required degree: Doctoral or professional

Best college major: Biochemistry

Overview: Biochemists and biophysicists investigate molecular and physical processes in living organisms to develop diagnostics, drugs, agricultural improvements and alternative fuels. Biophysicists may focus on proteins or nerve cells; biochemists often work at the cellular or molecular level.

31. Veterinarian

Median salary: $92,830

Projected jobs in the future: 100,100

Required degree: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Best undergraduate degree: Biology

Overview: Veterinarians diagnose, treat and research medical conditions in animals, from pets to livestock and captive wildlife. They provide preventive care, perform surgeries and may specialize in fields such as cardiology or neurology. Demand is rising with increased pet ownership and spending on animal care.

30. Atmospheric Scientist and Meteorologist

Median salary: $94,110

Projected jobs in the future: 10,800

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Meteorology

Overview: Atmospheric scientists research weather and climate and their human impacts. They develop forecasts, advise on climate risk and collaborate across fields to address transportation, agriculture and energy challenges. Businesses increasingly rely on forecasting teams to manage logistics and renewable energy decisions.

29. Information Security Analyst

Median salary: $98,350

Projected jobs in the future: 147,800

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, programming, information assurance

Overview: Information security analysts protect systems from cyber threats, develop disaster recovery plans and implement security measures. Growing cyberrisk drives strong demand, especially in finance and health care where sensitive data is involved.

28. Electrical/Electronics Engineer

Median salary: $99,070

Projected jobs in the future: 338,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Electrical or electronics engineering

Overview: Electrical engineers design, develop and test electrical equipment and systems used in consumer products, communications, satellites and defense systems. They often collaborate with other engineers to integrate electrical components into larger products.

27. Materials Scientists

Median salary: $99,800

Projected jobs in the future: 8,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Chemistry

Overview: Materials scientists research chemical properties and structures to improve or invent materials—ceramics, polymers, alloys—and often collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams.

26. Engineering Professor

Median salary: $101,720

Projected jobs in the future: 52,800

Required degree: Master’s (community/technical colleges) or Ph.D. (four-year institutions)

Best college major: Engineering

Overview: Engineering professors teach and mentor future engineers, conduct research, publish papers, supervise graduate students and pursue grants to fund their work. Quality educators are essential to developing skilled professionals.

25. Mathematician

Median salary: $101,900

Projected jobs in the future: 3,600

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Mathematics

Overview: Mathematicians analyze data and develop models to solve problems across disciplines. They work in government, research, development and academia; Ph.D. holders often pursue university research and teaching roles.

24. Actuary

Median salary: $102,880

Projected jobs in the future: 30,000

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Actuarial science, statistics

Overview: Actuaries use math and statistics to assess financial risk, often for insurance and pensions. Certification requires passing a series of rigorous professional exams.

23. Chemical Engineer

Median salary: $104,910

Projected jobs in the future: 36,000

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Chemical engineering

Overview: Chemical engineers design processes to produce chemicals and materials, plan and test production methods, and manage facility operations while considering environmental and safety impacts. Specialties include nanomaterials and biochemical engineering.

22. Software Developer

Median salary: $105,590

Projected jobs in the future: 1,649,600

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, software engineering

Overview: Software developers design, build and maintain applications based on user needs. With the proliferation of connected devices and rising cybersecurity concerns, demand for developers remains strong and expanding into new areas like customizable and downloadable software.

21. Nurse Practitioner

Median salary: $107,030

Projected jobs in the future: 189,100

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Nursing

Overview: Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care, assess patients, prescribe treatments (where licensed), and coordinate with other providers. With a projected physician shortage, NPs increasingly serve as primary care providers.

20. Nuclear Engineer

Median salary: $107,600

Projected jobs in the future: 17,600

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Nuclear engineering

Overview: Nuclear engineers research nuclear energy and radiation, developing systems and instruments for safe use—ranging from power generation to medical and industrial applications.

19. Physician Assistant

Median salary: $108,610

Projected jobs in the future: 155,700

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Science, physician assistant graduate program

Overview: PAs work alongside physicians to examine, diagnose and treat patients under physician supervision. They are licensed and must maintain continuing education. PAs help address care shortages, especially in rural areas.

18. Computer Network Architect

Median salary: $109,020

Projected jobs in the future: 167,700

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, engineering, information systems

Overview: Network architects design and build tailored computer networks for organizations. They must balance technical expertise with business needs and often pursue additional certifications to stay current.

17. Computer Hardware Engineer

Median salary: $114,600

Projected jobs in the future: 68,400

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer engineering

Overview: Hardware engineers design and test physical computer components—processors, circuit boards, memory and routers—and work with software teams to ensure compatibility. While much innovation is software-driven, hardware remains essential for many applications.

16. Aerospace Engineer

Median salary: $115,220

Projected jobs in the future: 68,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Aerospace engineering

Overview: Aerospace engineers design and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and missiles. They specialize in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics and guidance systems, and often focus on aeronautical (aircraft) or astronautical (spacecraft) work.

15. Computer and Information Research Scientist

Median salary: $118,370

Projected jobs in the future: 36,900

Required college: Master’s

Best college major: Computer science

Overview: Research scientists in computing develop new algorithms, hardware and software approaches to solve complex problems—enhancing networking, security and computing performance. Ongoing technological progress keeps demand steady.

14. Certified Nurse Midwife

Median salary: $130,770

Projected jobs in the future: 7,600

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Nursing

Overview: Certified nurse midwives provide obstetric and gynecological care, including prenatal services, delivery and family planning. They can support births outside hospitals and may collaborate with OB/GYNs when higher-level interventions are needed.

13. Petroleum Engineer

Median salary: $137,170

Projected jobs in the future: 34,300

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Petroleum engineering

Overview: Petroleum engineers design methods to extract oil and gas efficiently and safely. They often specialize in drilling, production, reservoir or completion engineering and work closely with geoscientists and technicians.

12. Information Technology Manager

Median salary: $142,530

Projected jobs in the future: 461,100

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, information science

Overview: IT managers oversee technology strategy and operations within organizations. Roles range from security managers to CIOs and CTOs. As companies adopt cloud solutions, some organizations move to outsourced services while others retain in-house leadership to guide digital transformation.

11. Dentist

Median salary: $151,850

Projected jobs in the future: 147,400

Required degree: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD)

Best college major: Biology, chemistry

Overview: Dentists diagnose and treat oral conditions, provide preventive care and educate patients about oral health. They perform fillings, extractions, restorations and may administer anesthetics and prescribe medications.

10. Computer and Information Systems Manager

Median salary: $142,530

Projected jobs in the future: 461,100

Required degree: Bachelor’s

Best college major: Computer science, information science

Overview: Also known as IT managers or IT project managers, these professionals plan and coordinate an organization’s computer-related activities, set IT goals and implement systems that support business objectives. Large organizations often have multiple executives in these roles.

9. Nurse Anesthetist

Median salary: $167,950

Projected jobs in the future: 52,700

Required degree: Master’s

Best college major: Nursing

Overview: Nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia and monitor patients before, during and after procedures. They also manage pain and may provide emergency services. Advanced training and licensure are required.

8. Pediatrician

Median salary: $183,240

Projected jobs in the future: 32,400

Required degree: M.D. or D.O.

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry, physics, math

Overview: Pediatricians provide care for infants, children and adolescents—delivering preventive care, immunizations and treatment for acute and chronic conditions. Some pursue subspecialties or pediatric surgery.

7. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Median salary: $208,000

Projected jobs in the future: 6,300

Required degree: DDS or DMD

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry

Overview: These surgeons perform complex procedures on the mouth, jaws, face and neck—removing impacted teeth, treating tumors, inserting implants and correcting facial deformities. Certification requires advanced surgical training.

6. Orthodontist

Median salary: $208,000

Projected jobs in the future: 7,000

Required degree: DDS or DMD

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry

Overview: Orthodontists correct misaligned teeth and jaws using braces, aligners and other appliances, managing treatment from diagnosis through post-treatment care.

5. Doctor (Family/General Practitioner)

Median salary: $211,780

Projected jobs in the future: 139,000

Required degree: M.D. or D.O.

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry, physics, math

Overview: Family and general practitioners provide preventive care, diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions and counsel patients on healthy lifestyles. They often build long-term relationships with patients and refer complex cases to specialists.

4. Psychiatrist

Median salary: $220,380

Projected jobs in the future: 33,200

Required degree: M.D. or D.O.

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry, physics, math

Overview: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat mental illness using psychotherapy, medication and other interventions. They often provide long-term care and work in hospitals, clinics and private practice. Access to psychiatric care remains a challenge in some regions due to provider shortages and cost.

3. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Median salary: $238,320

Projected jobs in the future: 21,100

Required degree: M.D. or D.O.

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry, physics, math

Overview: OB/GYNs provide care for pregnancy, childbirth and women’s reproductive health. Despite declining birthrates in some regions, demand remains high and shortages are projected in certain areas.

2. Surgeon

Median salary: $255,110

Projected jobs in the future: 38,700

Required degree: M.D. or D.O.

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry, physics, math

Overview: Surgeons treat injuries and diseases through operative procedures. Many specialize in fields such as orthopedics, neurosurgery, cardiovascular or reconstructive surgery, and also perform diagnostic and preventive care.

1. Anesthesiologist

Median salary: $267,020

Projected jobs in the future: 36,000

Required degree: M.D. or D.O.

Best undergraduate major: Biology, chemistry, physics, math

Overview: Anesthesiologists specialize in pain management and the administration of anesthesia during surgical and other medical procedures. They monitor vital signs and ensure patient safety throughout operations and also provide pain care in hospitals, ICUs and labor wards. Anesthesiologists are integral to most surgical procedures and play a crucial role in patient outcomes.