Report Highlights. An average bachelor’s degree has a 560.53% lifetime return on investment* with a median lifetime return up to 1,040.14%.
- In the first decade, an average bachelor’s degree has a negative return on investment (-16.54%); it takes roughly 12 years in the workforce to regain the investment for a typical bachelor’s degree.
- The projected average starting salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in 2026 is $72,069; the projected median salary among working bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 64 is $87,722.
- Professional degrees have the highest potential return on investment at 2,249%; this projection assumes the graduate also has a bachelor’s degree and a 40-year career.
- As of 2024, the initial investment for a typical bachelor’s degree from a state school totals $270,811,** including the cost of tuition ($107,190), indirect costs of attendance (such as room and board), student loan interest, and lost potential income.
- Based on median salaries for degree holders between age 25 to 64, bachelor’s holders will make an estimated $25,356 (41.2%) more than associate’s degree holders in 2026.
*Returns are based on average or ideal investment scenarios; these scenarios include potential lost income from students exiting the workforce to attend school except where otherwise noted. See Calculating ROI for details.
**Excluding lost potential income, the total investment is $137,639, the average graduate takes over five (5) years to earn their bachelor’s degree; degree timelines have increased steadily since 1972 when the average time to graduation was 4.3 years.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROIs |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $228,449 | -16.54% |
| 20 | $566,609 | 106.99% |
| 30 | $1,067,168 | 289.85% |
| 40 | $1,808,119 | 560.53% |
Bachelor’s Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree is based on a 2024 starting salary of $67,388 and an initial investment of $273,736.
- $146,795 was the average cost of tuition and fees to earn a bachelor’s degree for the Class of 2023; this represents 53.63% of the total initial investment.
- A 2023 graduate with a bachelor’s degree can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.403 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a bachelor’s degree, median earnings for 2022 totaled $74,150.
- Also for 2022, men with bachelor’s degrees made a median of $89,300; women with the same degree made a median of $63,230.
- An advanced degree boosts median earnings 29.68% (to $86,120) over a bachelor’s alone ($66,410).
Bachelor’s Degree ROI by Major
The average return on investment for a bachelor’s degree can be vastly different from one major to another. Variations also exist based on the degree holder’s personal circumstances, such as age, location, gender, etc.
- The most cost-efficient bachelor’s degree is in management information systems and statistics, with a lifetime ROI of 1,758.59%.
- Degrees in finance (1,580.53%), computer and information sciences (1,561.07%), and electrical engineering (1,479.98%) also have high returns.
- Despite having a lower ROI, an electrical engineer’s lifetime returns exceed a business finance major’s by $1.101 million.
- A Bachelor of Psychology offers the lowest lifetime ROI at -122.78%, representing a $54,188 loss in degree-based earnings (compared to median earnings with a high school diploma).
- Other negative-value degrees include family and consumer sciences (-100.62%), liberal arts and humanities (-94.03%), and education (-51.61%).
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $145,067 | -49.30% |
| 20 | $359,802 | 25.74% |
| 30 | $677,662 | 136.82% |
| 40 | $1,148,172 | 301.25% |
Agriculture Degree Return on Investment
The lifetime ROI for a typical bachelor’s degree in agriculture or agricultural business is 301%; the degree pays for itself after 15 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Agriculture is based on a starting salary of $60,443 and an initial investment of $286,150.
- $157,033 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Agriculture; this represents 54.88% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Agriculture can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.744 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, agriculture majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 89.69%, meaning they make 10.31% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 11.1% lower among agriculture majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders in 2022.
- 1.15% of recent bachelor’s program graduates majored in agriculture.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $270,372 | -11.83% |
| 20 | $670,586 | 118.69% |
| 30 | $1,263,003 | 311.88% |
| 40 | $2,139,924 | 597.85% |
Architecture Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in architecture is 598%; the degree pays for itself after 11 full years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Architecture is based on a starting salary of $70,879 and an initial investment of $306,644.
- $173,935 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Architecture; this represents 56.72% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Architecture can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.735 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, architecture majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 105.18%, meaning they make 5.18% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 29.63% higher among architecture majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.66% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in architecture.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $310,221 | 28.26% |
| 20 | $769,423 | 218.11% |
| 30 | $1,449,154 | 499.15% |
| 40 | $2,455,323 | 915.14% |
Business Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in business is 915%; the degree pays for itself after 7 full years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Business is based on a starting salary of $74,199 and an initial investment of $241,870.
- $120,515 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Business; this represents 49.83% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Business can expect to earn a lifetime total of $7.051 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Business, median earnings for 2022 totaled $80,120.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Business made a median of $90,080; women with the same degree made a median of $66,690.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, business majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 110.11% (meaning they make 10.11% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Business, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 29.1% (to $96,280 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($74,570 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 11.1% lower among business majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 17.8% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in business.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $355,898 | 47.14% |
| 20 | $882,714 | 264.95% |
| 30 | $1,662,530 | 587.37% |
| 40 | $2,816,850 | 1,064.62% |
Accounting Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in accounting or business accounting is 1,065%; the degree pays for itself after 6 full years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Accounting is based on a starting salary of $78,003 and an initial investment of $241,870.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Accounting can expect to earn a lifetime total of $7.412 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Accounting, median earnings for 2022 totaled $84,880.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Accounting made a median of $100,000; women with the same degree made a median of $75,010.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, accounting majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 115.75% (meaning they make 15.75% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Accounting, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 32.12% (to $102,000 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($77,200 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 18.5% lower among accounting majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 2.65% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in accounting.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $513,560 | 112.33% |
| 20 | $1,273,753 | 426.63% |
| 30 | $2,399,024 | 891.87% |
| 40 | $4,064,702 | 1,580.53% |
Finance Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in finance or business finance is 1,581%; the degree pays for itself after 4 full years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Finance is based on a starting salary of $91,135 and an initial investment of $241,870.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Finance can expect to earn a lifetime total of $8.660 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Finance, median earnings for 2022 totaled $99,900.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Finance made a median of $106,400; women with the same degree made a median of $79,940.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, finance majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 135.24% (meaning they make 35.24% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Finance, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 27.02% (to $116,100 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($91,400 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 18.5% lower among finance majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 2.53% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in finance.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $567,973 | 134.83% |
| 20 | $1,408,710 | 482.43% |
| 30 | $2,653,207 | 996.96% |
| 40 | $4,495,368 | 1,758.59% |
Systems and Statistics Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in business information systems management and statistics is 1,759%; the degree pays for itself after 4 full years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Management Information Systems and Statistics is based on a starting salary of $95,667 and an initial investment of $241,870.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Systems and Statistics can expect to earn a lifetime total of $9.091 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, systems management majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 141.96% (meaning they make 41.96% more than their peers).
- 0.36% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in systems management and statistics.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $150,738 | -50.06% |
| 20 | $373,866 | 23.86% |
| 30 | $704,151 | 133.28% |
| 40 | $1,193,054 | 295.24% |
Commercial Art Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in commercial art and graphic design is 295.24%; the degree pays for itself after 16 full years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Commercial Art is based on a starting salary of $60,915 and an initial investment of $301,854.
- $169,984 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Commercial Art; this represents 56.31% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Commercial Art can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.788 million.
- Among graduates with Bachelor of Commercial Art and Graphic Design, median earnings for 2022 totaled $59,770.
- Also for 2022, men with Bachelor of Commercial Art and Graphic Design made a median of $69,930; women with the same degree made a median of $54,350.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, commercial art majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 90.39%, meaning they make 9.61% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Commercial Art and Graphic Design, adding an advanced degree boosts median earnings 18.5% (to $69,310 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($58,490 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 70.4% higher among commercial art majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.27% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in commercial art.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $175,264 | -32.30% |
| 20 | $434,696 | 67.90% |
| 30 | $818,720 | 216.24% |
| 40 | $1,387,169 | 435.80% |
Communications Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in communications and communications technologies is 435.80%; the degree pays for itself after 14 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Communications is based on a starting salary of $62,958 and an initial investment of $258,896.
- $134,556 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Communications; this represents 51.97% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Communications can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.983 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Communications, median earnings for 2022 totaled $67,840.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Communications made a median of $75,400; women with the same degree made a median of $64,130.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, communications majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 93.43%, meaning they make 6.57% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Communications, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 18.22% (to $76,560 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($64,760 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 29.6% higher among communications majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 5.28% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in communications.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $536,171 | 109.87% |
| 20 | $1,329,834 | 420.53% |
| 30 | $2,504,650 | 880.38% |
| 40 | $4,243,666 | 1,561.07% |
Computer and Information Sciences Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in computer and information sciences is 1,561.07%; the degree pays for itself after 4 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences is based on a starting salary of $93,018 and an initial investment of $255,478.
- $131,737 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences; this represents 51.57% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences can expect to earn a lifetime total of $8.839 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Computer Science, median earnings for 2022 totaled $108,500.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Computer Science made a median of $115,500; women with the same degree made a median of $91,990.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, computer and information sciences majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 138.03% (meaning they make 38.03% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Computer Science, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 26.77% (to $128,800 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($101,600 in 2022).
- Unemployment was the same among computer and information sciences majors as it is among all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 4.95% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in computer and information sciences.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $296,130 | 27.51% |
| 20 | $734,474 | 216.26% |
| 30 | $1,383,431 | 495.69% |
| 40 | $2,343,798 | 909.22% |
Construction, Electrical, and Transportation Technologies Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in construction, electrical, and transportation technologies is 909.22%; the degree pays for itself after 7 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Construction, Electrical, and Transportation Technologies is based on a starting salary of $73,025 and an initial investment of $232,239.
- $112,572 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Construction, Electrical, and Transportation Technologies; this represents 48.47% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Construction, Electrical, and Transportation Technologies can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.939 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, construction majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 108.37% (meaning they make 8.37% more than their peers).
- 0.52% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in construction.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $93,445 | -65.32% |
| 20 | $231,767 | -13.99% |
| 30 | $436,516 | 62.00% |
| 40 | $739,596 | 174.48% |
Criminal Justice Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice is 174.48%; the degree pays for itself after 23 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Fire Protection is based on a starting salary of $56,143 and an initial investment of $269,454.
- $143,264 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Fire Protection; this represents 53.17% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Criminal Justice can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.335 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Fire Protection, median earnings for 2022 totaled $64,690.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Fire Protection made a median of $74,250; women with the same degree made a median of $54,150.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, criminal justice majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 83.31%, meaning they make 16.69% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Criminal Justice and Fire Protection, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 24.11% (to $76,740 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($61,830 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 14.8% higher among criminal justice majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 2.45% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in criminal justice.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $17,970 | -93.89% |
| 20 | $44,569 | -84.84% |
| 30 | $83,943 | -71.44% |
| 40 | $142,227 | -51.61% |
Education Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in education is -54.67%. Relative to the cost of tuition and fees plus room and board, the average lifetime return is -24.2%.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Education is based on a starting salary of $49,857 and an initial investment of $293,913.
- $163,435 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Education; this represents 55.61% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Education can expect to earn a lifetime total of $4.738 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Education, median earnings for 2022 totaled $58,000.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Education made a median of $68,420; women with the same degree made a median of $55,030.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, education majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 73.98%, meaning they make 26.02% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Education, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 32.46% (to $66,880 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($50,490 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 37.04% lower among education majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 5.82% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in education.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $435,507 | 8.91% |
| 20 | $1,080,163 | 170.12% |
| 30 | $2,034,411 | 408.76% |
| 40 | $3,446,933 | 761.99% |
Engineering Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in engineering is 761.99%; the degree pays for itself after nine (9) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Engineering is based on a starting salary of $84,634 and an initial investment of $399,880.
- $250,827 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Engineering; this represents 66.48% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Engineering can expect to earn a lifetime total of $8.042 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Engineering, median earnings for 2022 totaled $100,600.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Engineering made a median of $103,300; women with the same degree made a median of $76,160.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, engineering majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 125.59% (meaning they make 25.59% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Engineering, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 28.30% (to $116,100 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($90,490 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 22.2% lower among engineering majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 9.40% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in engineering.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $572,595 | 43.19% |
| 20 | $1,420,175 | 255.15% |
| 30 | $2,674,800 | 568.90% |
| 40 | $4,531,953 | 1,033.33% |
Chemical Engineering Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering is 1,033.33%; the degree pays for itself after seven (7) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering is based on a starting salary of $96,052 and an initial investment of $399,880.
- $250,827 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering; this represents 62.73% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering can expect to earn a lifetime total of $9.127 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, chemical engineering majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 142.54% (meaning they make 42.54% than their peers).
- Unemployment was 62.96% lower among chemical engineering majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.72% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in chemical engineering.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $545,801 | 66.94% |
| 20 | $1,353,718 | 314.06% |
| 30 | $2,549,634 | 679.86% |
| 40 | $4,319,882 | 1,221.32% |
Computer Engineering Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering is 1,221.32%; the degree pays for itself after six (6) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Computer Engineering is based on a starting salary of $93,820 and an initial investment of $326,936.
- $190,669 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Computer Engineering; this represents 58.32% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Computer Engineering can expect to earn a lifetime total of $8.915 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, computer engineering majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 139.22% (meaning they make 39.22% more than their peers).
- Unemployment was 7.41% lower among computer engineering majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.95% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in computer engineering.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $652,644 | 99.62% |
| 20 | $1,618,715 | 395.12% |
| 30 | $3,048,736 | 832.52% |
| 40 | $5,165,519 | 1,479.98% |
Electrical Engineering Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is 1,479.98%; the degree pays for itself after five (5) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering is based on a starting salary of $102,719 and an initial investment of $326,936.
- $190,669 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering; this represents 58.32% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering can expect to earn a lifetime total of $9.761 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, median earnings for 2022 totaled $121,600.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Electrical Engineering made a median of $123,800; women with the same degree made a median of $105,200.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, electrical engineering majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 152.43% (meaning they make 52.43% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 30.77% (to $139,400 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($106,600 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 11.11% higher among electrical engineering majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.39% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in electrical engineering.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $77,362 | -70.32% |
| 20 | $191,876 | -26.39% |
| 30 | $361,385 | 38.65% |
| 40 | $612,301 | 134.91% |
English Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in English is 134.91%; the degree pays for itself after 21 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of English is based on a starting salary of $54,804 and an initial investment of $260,649.
- $136,002 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of English; this represents 52.18% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of English can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.208 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of English, median earnings for 2022 totaled $65,060.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of English made a median of $75,850; women with the same degree made a median of $61,150.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, English majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 81.33%, meaning they make 18.67% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of English, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 34.16% (to $75,370 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($56,180 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 92.59% higher among English majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 2.20% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in English.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | -$181 | -100.08% |
| 20 | -$449 | -100.19% |
| 30 | -$846 | -100.36% |
| 40 | -$1,433 | -100.62% |
Family and Consumer Sciences Degree Return on Investment
One of few degrees that offers a negative ROI (when including lost potential income), a Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences yields a -100.62% return; relative to the cost of tuition and fees plus room and board, the average lifetime return is 18.24%.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences is based on a starting salary of $48,345 and an initial investment of $232,239.
- $112,572 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences; this represents 48.47% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences can expect to earn a lifetime total of $4.594 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences, median earnings for 2022 totaled $52,850.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences made a median of $70,440; women with the same degree made a median of $51,590.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, family and consumer sciences majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 71.74%, meaning they make 28.26% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Family and Consumer Sciences, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 36.41% (to $63,800 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($46,770 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 22.2% lower among family and consumer sciences majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.85% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in family and consumer sciences.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $270,664 | -15.25% |
| 20 | $671,313 | 110.20% |
| 30 | $1,264,371 | 295.90% |
| 40 | $2,142,243 | 570.79% |
Health Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in health is 570.79%; the degree pays for itself after 11 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Health is based on a starting salary of $70,904 and an initial investment of $319,363.
- $184,424 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Health; this represents 57.75% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Health can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.737 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, health majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 105.22% (meaning they make 5.22% more than their peers).
- Unemployment was 33.33% lower among health majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 9.22% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in health.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $212,054 | -33.60% |
| 20 | $525,945 | 64.69% |
| 30 | $990,581 | 210.17% |
| 40 | $1,678,356 | 425.53% |
General Medical and Health Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in general medical and health services is 425.53%; the degree pays for itself after 15 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of General Medical and Health is based on a starting salary of $66,022 and an initial investment of $319,363.
- $184,424 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of General Medical and Health; this represents 57.75% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of General Medical and Health can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.274 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, general medical and health services majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 97.97%, meaning they make 2.03% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 14.81% lower among general medical and health services majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 4.82% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in general medical and health services.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $335,848 | 5.16% |
| 20 | $832,984 | 160.83% |
| 30 | $1,568,867 | 391.25% |
| 40 | $2,658,154 | 732.33% |
Nursing Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in nursing is 732.33%; the degree pays for itself after nine (9) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Nursing is based on a starting salary of $76,333 and an initial investment of $319,363.
- $184,424 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Nursing; this represents 57.75% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Nursing can expect to earn a lifetime total of $7.254 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Nursing, median earnings for 2022 totaled $79,600.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Nursing made a median of $90,890; women with the same degree made a median of $77,640.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, nursing majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 113.27% (meaning they make 13.27% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Nursing, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 34.67% (to $99,060 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($73,560 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 55.56% lower among nursing majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 4.41% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in nursing.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $68,362 | -73.75% |
| 20 | $167,316 | -35.74% |
| 30 | $315,129 | 21.03% |
| 40 | $533,927 | 105.06% |
History Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in history is 105.06%; the degree pays for itself after 24 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of History is based on a starting salary of $53,979 and an initial investment of $260,382.
- $135,782 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of History; this represents 52.15% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of History can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.129 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of History, median earnings for 2022 totaled $73,560.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of History made a median of $81,270; women with the same degree made a median of $62,980.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, history majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 80.10%, meaning they make 19.9% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of History, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 36.61% (to $85,160 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($62,340 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 66.7% higher among history majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.41% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in history.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $1,752 | -99.25% |
| 20 | $4,345 | -98.13% |
| 30 | $8,184 | -96.48% |
| 40 | $13,867 | -94.03% |
Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts and humanities is -94.03%; relative to the cost of tuition alone, the average lifetime return is 10.83%.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Humanities is based on a starting salary of $48,506 and an initial investment of $232,239.
- $112,572 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Humanities; this represents 48.47% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Humanities can expect to earn a lifetime total of $4.609 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Humanities, median earnings for 2022 totaled $61,380.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Humanities made a median of $70,850; women with the same degree made a median of $55,790.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, liberal arts and humanities majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 71.98%, meaning they make 28.02% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Humanities, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 41.70% (to $77,310 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($54,560 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 66.7% higher among liberal arts and humanities majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.85% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in liberal arts and humanities.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $65,195 | -76.90% |
| 20 | $161,699 | -42.70% |
| 30 | $304,549 | 7.92% |
| 40 | $516,003 | 82.84% |
Linguistics and Comparative Languages Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and comparative languages is 146.30%; the degree pays for itself after 27 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Linguistics and Comparative Languages is based on a starting salary of $53,790 and an initial investment of $282,211.
- $153,784 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Linguistics and Comparative Languages; this represents 54.49% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Linguistics and Comparative Languages can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.111 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, linguistics and comparative languages majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 79.82%, meaning they make 20.18% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 33.3% higher among linguistics and comparative languages majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.75% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in linguistics and comparative languages.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $353,666 | 36.06% |
| 20 | $877,177 | 237.46% |
| 30 | $1,652,101 | 535.58% |
| 40 | $2,799,180 | 976.87% |
Mathematics Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in mathematics is 976.87%; the degree pays for itself after seven (7) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Mathematics is based on a starting salary of $77,817 and an initial investment of $259,936.
- $147,508 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Mathematics; this represents 56.75% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Mathematics can expect to earn a lifetime total of $7.395 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Mathematics, median earnings for 2022 totaled $86,560.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Mathematics made a median of $99,050; women with the same degree made a median of $73,500.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, mathematics majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 115.48% (meaning they make 15.48% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Mathematics, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 26.43% (to $96,530 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($76,350 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 40.74% lower among mathematics majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.43% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in mathematics.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $144,110 | -46.65% |
| 20 | $357,428 | 32.32% |
| 30 | $673,190 | 149.22% |
| 40 | $1,140,596 | 322.26% |
Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies is 322.26%; the degree pays for itself after 18 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies is based on a starting salary of $60,363 and an initial investment of $270,119.
- $156,655 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies; this represents 57.99% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.736 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, interdisciplinary studies majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 89.58%, meaning they make 10.42% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 33.3% lower among interdisciplinary studies majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.22% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in interdisciplinary studies.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $152,617 | -38.70% |
| 20 | $378,525 | 52.04% |
| 30 | $712,926 | 186.35% |
| 40 | $1,207,922 | 385.16% |
Natural Sciences Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in natural sciences is 385.16%; the degree pays for itself after 13 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Natural Sciences is based on a starting salary of $61,072 and an initial investment of $248,972.
- $137,658 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Natural Sciences; this represents 55.29% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Natural Sciences can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.803 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, natural sciences majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 90.63%, meaning they make 9.37% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was the same among natural sciences majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 11.09% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in natural sciences.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $148,820 | -46.40% |
| 20 | $369,110 | 32.93% |
| 30 | $695,193 | 150.36% |
| 40 | $1,177,876 | 324.19% |
Biology Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in biology is 324.19%; the degree pays for itself after 18 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Biology is based on a starting salary of $60,755 and an initial investment of $277,675.
- $150,043 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Biology; this represents 54.04% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Biology can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.773 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Biology, median earnings for 2022 totaled $81,550.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Biology made a median of $96,620; women with the same degree made a median of $72,200.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, biology majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 90.16%, meaning they make 9.84% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Biology, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 70.23% (to $102,800 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($60,390 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 7.41% lower among biology majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 7.17% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in biology.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $233,117 | -27.40% |
| 20 | $578,187 | 80.07% |
| 30 | $1,088,974 | 239.15% |
| 40 | $1,845,065 | 474.62% |
Physical Sciences Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in physical sciences is 474.62%; the degree pays for itself after 13 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Physical Sciences is based on a starting salary of $67,777 and an initial investment of $321,091.
- $185,849 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Physical Sciences; this represents 57.88% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Physical Sciences can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.440 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, physical sciences majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 100.58%, meaning they make 0.58% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 3.70% lower among physical sciences majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 2.76% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in physical sciences.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $108,050 | -57.50% |
| 20 | $267,989 | 5.42% |
| 30 | $504,738 | 98.54% |
| 40 | $855,185 | 236.39% |
Physical Fitness Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in physical fitness is 236.39%; the degree pays for itself after 19 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Physical Fitness is based on a starting salary of $57,360 and an initial investment of $254,221.
- $142,373 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Physical Fitness; this represents 56.0% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Physical Fitness can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.451 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Physical Fitness, median earnings for 2022 totaled $61,580.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Physical Fitness made a median of $65,120; women with the same degree made a median of $55,600.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, physical fitness majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 85.12%, meaning they make 14.88% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Physical Fitness, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 33.01% (to $73,180 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($55,020 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 3.70% higher among physical fitness majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 2.49% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in physical fitness.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $147,917 | -39.84% |
| 20 | $366,868 | 49.20% |
| 30 | $690,971 | 181.01% |
| 40 | $1,170,722 | 376.11% |
Philosophy Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in philosophy is 376.11%; the degree pays for itself after 13 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Philosophy is based on a starting salary of $60,680 and an initial investment of $245,892.
- $134,891 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Philosophy; this represents 54.86% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Philosophy can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.766 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, philosophy majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 90.05%, meaning they make 9.95% less than their peers.
- Unemployment was 3.70% higher among philosophy majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.51% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in philosophy.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | -$6,866 | -102.89% |
| 20 | -$16,981 | -107.14% |
| 30 | -$31,983 | -113.44% |
| 40 | -$54,188 | -122.78% |
Psychology Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in psychology is -122.78%; relative to just the cost of tuition and fees plus room and board, a bachelor’s in psychology has a 465.11% return.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Psychology is based on a starting salary of $47,790 and an initial investment of $237,914.
- $127,724 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Psychology; this represents 53.68% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Psychology can expect to earn a lifetime total of $4.541 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Psychology, median earnings for 2022 totaled $62,270.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Psychology made a median of $76,090; women with the same degree made a median of $58,490.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, psychology majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 70.92%, meaning they make 29.08% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Psychology, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 38.18% (to $72,490 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($52,460 in 2022).
- Unemployment is 22.2% higher among psychology majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 5.92% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in psychology.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $130,956 | -49.04% |
| 20 | $324,803 | 26.40% |
| 30 | $611,744 | 138.06% |
| 40 | $1,036,487 | 303.34% |
Public Administration Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in public administration and public policy is 303.34%; the degree pays for itself after 15 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Public Administration is based on a starting salary of $59,267 and an initial investment of $256,973.
- $144,846 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Public Administration; this represents 56.37% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Public Administration can expect to earn a lifetime total of $5.632 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, public administration and public policy majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 87.95%, meaning they make 12.05% less than their peers.
- 0.22% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in public administration and public policy.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $278,993 | 13.01% |
| 20 | $691,969 | 180.28% |
| 30 | $1,303,276 | 427.89% |
| 40 | $2,208,160 | 794.41% |
Social Sciences Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in social sciences is 946.78%; the degree pays for itself after eight (8) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Social Sciences is based on a starting salary of $71,598 and an initial investment of $246,884.
- $135,782 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Social Sciences; this represents 55.00% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Social Sciences can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.804 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, social sciences majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 106.25% (meaning they make 6.25% more than their peers).
- Unemployment was 7.41% higher among social sciences majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 6.72% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in social sciences.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $510,487 | 96.05% |
| 20 | $1,266,131 | 386.26% |
| 30 | $2,384,669 | 815.83% |
| 40 | $4,040,380 | 1,451.71% |
Economics Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in economics is 1,451.71%; the degree pays for itself after five (5) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Economics is based on a starting salary of $90,879 and an initial investment of $260,382.
- $135,782 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Economics; this represents 52.15% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Economics can expect to earn a lifetime total of $8.636 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Economics, median earnings for 2022 totaled $101,400.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Economics made a median of $107,300; women with the same degree made a median of $84,750.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, economics majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 134.86% (meaning they make 34.86% more than their peers).
- With a Bachelor of Economics, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 36.32% (to $122,100 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($89,570 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 3.70% higher among economics majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.95% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in economics.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $285,093 | 22.76% |
| 20 | $707,098 | 204.47% |
| 30 | $1,331,770 | 473.45% |
| 40 | $2,256,438 | 871.60% |
International Relations Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in international relations is 871.60%; the degree pays for itself after eight (8) years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of International Relations is based on a starting salary of $72,106 and an initial investment of $232,239.
- $112,572 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of International Relations; this represents 48.47% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of International Relations can expect to earn a lifetime total of $6.852 million.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, international relations majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 107.0% (meaning they make 7.00% more than their peers).
- Unemployment was 14.81% higher among international relations majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 0.32% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in international relations.
| Years in Workforce | Total Degree-based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $43,887 | -81.10% |
| 20 | $108,850 | -53.13% |
| 30 | $205,011 | -11.72% |
| 40 | $347,354 | 49.57% |
Social Work Degree Return on Investment
The average ROI for a bachelor’s degree in social work and human services is 49.57%; the degree pays for itself after 34 years in the workforce.
- The ROI for a Bachelor of Social Work is based on a starting salary of $52,015 and an initial investment of $232,239.
- $112,572 is the average cost of tuition and fees (including room and board) to earn a Bachelor of Social Work; this represents 48.47% of the total initial investment.
- A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Social Work can expect to earn a lifetime total of $4.943 million.
- Among workers aged 25 to 64 with a Bachelor of Social Work, median earnings for 2022 totaled $55,060.
- Also for 2022, men who earned Bachelor of Social Work made a median of $60,090; women with the same degree made a median of $54,380.
- Compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 years old, social work and human services majors’ median earnings are equivalent to 77.19%, meaning they make 22.81%% less than their peers.
- With a Bachelor of Social Work, an advanced degree boosts median earnings 33.85% (to $62,510 in 2022) over a bachelor’s alone ($46,700 in 2022).
- Unemployment was 55.6% lower among social work and human services majors compared to all bachelor’s degree holders aged 25 to 29 in 2022.
- 1.20% of recent bachelor’s degree earners majored in social work and human services.
Wage Growth by Education Level
In general, the average individual income increases corresponding to one’s education level or educational attainment.
- The difference between a high school diploma and an associate’s degree is a 18.17% increase in average weekly earnings.
- Between a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree there is a 65.91% increase in weekly earnings; between an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s, there is a 40.4% increase in average earnings.
- From bachelor’s to master’s, the median wage increases 19.25%.
- Between a bachelor’s and a professional degree, there is a 53.14% increase in weekly earnings.
- There is a 28.42% increase in earnings between a master’s and a professional degree.
- Between a master’s and a doctorate, there is a 23.80% increase in earnings.
Return on Investment Contributing Factors
Average wages do not address the discrepancies in pay between certain groups. In addition to inequitable academic funding, there can be drastic differences in income and employment based on gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, immigration status, etc.
- Among males with at least a bachelor’s degree, 91.8% participate in the workforce (i.e. they either have a job or are searching for one).
- Females with bachelor’s degrees participate in the workforce at a rate of 83.3%.
- Among people with a high school diploma as their highest level of educational attainment, 71.6% participate in the labor force; the unemployment rate is 7.3% among them.
- 25- to 34-year-old degree holders with a bachelor’s or higher participate in the workforce at a rate of 91.1%; their unemployment rate is 3.6%.
- Bachelor’s degree holders (including those with advanced degrees) between the ages of 35 and 44 have a workforce participation rate of 90.0% and an unemployment rate of 3.0%.
- 45- to 54-year-old bachelor’s degree holders (including those with advanced degrees) have a workforce participation rate of 89.6% and an unemployment rate of 3.0%.
- Between the ages of 55 and 64, bachelor’s degree holders have a workforce participation rate of 75.5% and an unemployment rate of 4.0%.
- Among 25- to 34-year-olds with an associate’s as their highest level degree, the workforce participation rate is 85.8%; their unemployment rate is 5.8%.
| Education Level | 10-Year Projected ROI 2024-2034 | Lifetime Projected ROI 2024-2064 |
|---|---|---|
| Associate’s degree, public institution grads | -23.22% | 595.94% |
| Bachelor’s degree, public institution grads† | 25.83% | 1,040.14% |
| Bachelor’s degree, average | -16.54% | 560.53% |
| Master’s degree, average | -1.01% | 821.15% |
| Doctoral degree, average | 28.56% | 865.67% |
| Professional degree, average | 193.46% | 3,354.02% |
†These figures assume bachelor’s degree holders who graduated from public institutions earn the same amount as those who graduated from private institutions although some research indicates that private degrees offer a slightly higher ROI.
Return on Investment by Education Level
In this section, return on investment calculations are based on the cost of tuition, median salaries, loan interest, employment projections, and estimated potential income lost from not participating in the workforce (as well as income gained from teaching assistantships among postgraduate scholars).
Bachelor’s degree estimates in this section will not necessarily match the previous section, which used starting salaries as opposed to median salaries to measure ROIs. This section also uses associate and bachelor’s program costs of attendance among public institutions to measure initial investment (as opposed to the previous section, which used bachelor’s programs from public and private accredited postsecondary institutions).
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $125,785 | -23.22% |
| 20 | $317,931 | 94.07% |
| 30 | $631,442 | 285.44% |
| 40 | $1,140,133 | 595.94% |
Associate’s Degree Return on Investment
Based on median earnings among workers aged 25 to 64, an associate’s degree has a lifetime ROI that is projected to increase 32.9% over 40 years (from 448.33% for those employed 1984-2024 to 595.94% for those working between 2024-2064).
- A 2023 graduate with an associate’s degree can expect to make a lifetime total of $6.114 million over a 40-year career.
- $1.140 million of lifetime earnings are attributable to the associate’s degree , representing 18.65% of income.
- As of 2024, 16.08% of an associate’s degree holder’s income is attributable to the degree.
- Median earnings among associate’s degree holders are equivalent to 90.0% of the median earnings among all workers.
- The unemployment rate among associate’s degree holders is 15.2% lower than the average unemployment rate.
- 81.3% of associate’s degree holders participate in the work force (i.e. they either have a job or are searching for one).
- The 2024 job market employed 3.478 million associate’s degree holders.
- By 2034, 3.634 million associate’s degree holders will have employment, up 6.26% over 10 years.
- A new graduate will have to work at least 13 years before they see a return on their associate’s degree.
- Earning an associate’s degree takes an average of three (3) years‡; for a new graduate:
- The cost of an average associate’s degree totals $36,149 in tuition and fees alone (including the cost of room and board).
- Potential income lost while earning an associate’s degree totals $133,172.
- The initial investment for an associate’s degree is $163,826.
‡Although most associate programs are designated 2-year, it takes the average graduate three (3) years to earn their associate’s degree.
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $80,484 | -29.61% |
| 20 | $128,496 | 68.95% |
| 30 | $161,245 | 215.88% |
| 40 | $183,583 | 448.33% |
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $340,755 | 25.83% |
| 20 | $852,978 | 214.97% |
| 30 | $1,698,335 | 527.13% |
| 40 | $3,087,636 | 1,040.14% |
Bachelor’s Degree Return on Investment
Based on median earnings among workers aged 25 to 64, a bachelor’s degree from a public institution‖ has a lifetime ROI that is projected to increase 1.25% over 40 years (from 1,027.25% for those employed between 1984 and 2024) (1,040.14% from 2023-2063).
- A 2023 graduate with a bachelor’s degree can expect to make a lifetime total of $9.192 million over a 40-year career.
- $3.088 million of lifetime earnings are attributable to a bachelor’s degree, representing 33.59% of income.
- As of 2024, 39.73% of a bachelor’s degree holder’s income is attributable to the degree.
- Median earnings among bachelor’s degree holders are equivalent to 126.4% of the median earnings among all workers.
- The unemployment rate among bachelor’s degree holders is 24.2% lower than the average unemployment rate.
- 87.2% of bachelor’s degree holders participate in the work force (i.e. they either have a job or are searching for one).
- The 2024 job market employed 42.469 million bachelor’s degree holders.
- By 2034, 44.847 million bachelor’s degree holders will have employment, up 5.60% over 10 years.
- It will take nine (9) full working years for a 2023 graduate to see a return on their bachelor’s degree.
- Earning a bachelor’s degree takes an average of five (5) years; for a new graduate:
- The cost of an average bachelor’s degree totals $146,795 in tuition and fees alone (including the cost of room and board).
- Potential income lost while earning a bachelor’s degree totals $213,070.
- The initial investment for a bachelor’s degree is $270,811.
‖This section refers to bachelor’s degree holders who graduated from public institutions; it assumes that these employed graduates earn the same amount as those who graduated from private institutions. Some research shows that private degrees offer a higher ROI, indicating higher earning potential compared to state school graduates.
See Bachelor’s Degree ROI by Major for more details.
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 (2014-2024) | $284,551 | 62.99% |
| 20 (2004-2024) | $443,940 | 315.19% |
| 30 (1994-2024) | $545,123 | 492.10% |
| 40 (1984-2024) | $609,356 | 1,027.25% |
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $221,344 | -1.01% |
| 20 | $562,133 | 151.39% |
| 30 | $1,126,182 | 403.64% |
| 40 | $2,059,753 | 821.15% |
Master’s Degree Return on Investment
Based on median earnings among workers aged 25 to 64, a master’s degree has a high lifetime ROI that is projected to increase 45.1% over the next 40 years (from 565.77% from 1984-2024) to 821.15% from 2024-2064).
- A 2023 graduate with a master’s degree can expect to make a lifetime total of $13.275 million over a 40-year career.
- $2.060 million of lifetime earnings are attributable to a master’s degree, representing 15.52% of income.
- As of 2024, 16.14% of a master’s degree holder’s income is attributable to the degree.
- Median earnings among master’s degree holders are equivalent to 150.7% of the median earnings among all workers.
- The unemployment rate among master’s degree holders is 2.2%, 33.3% lower than the average unemployment rate.
- The 2024 job market employed 3.829 million master’s degree holders.
- By 2034, 4.221 million master’s degree holders will have employment, up 10.3% over 10 years.
- It will take 10 full working years for a 2023 graduate to see a return on their master’s degree.
- Earning a master’s degree ideally takes two (2) years; for a new graduate:
- The cost of an average master’s degree totals $41,543 in tuition and fees alone (excluding the cost of room and board).
- Potential income lost while earning a master’s degree totals $152,100.
- The initial investment for a master’s degree is $223,607.
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 (2014-2024) | $862,425 | -31.72% |
| 20 (2004-2024) | $1,386,287 | 80.41% |
| 30 (1994-2024) | $1,719,307 | 262.37% |
| 40 (1984-2024) | $1,931,008 | 565.77% |
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $308,386 | -6.66% |
| 20 | $734,280 | 122.24% |
| 30 | $1,369,360 | 314.46% |
| 40 | $2,316,374 | 601.08% |
Doctoral Degree Return on Investment
Based on median earnings among workers aged 25 to 64, a doctoral degree has a lifetime ROI that is projected to decline 39.6% over 40 years (from 955.98% for those in the workforce 1984-2024 to 601.08% from 2024-2064).
- A 2023 graduate with a doctoral degree can expect to make a lifetime total of $13.575 million over a 40-year career.
- $2.316 million of lifetime earnings are attributable to a doctoral degree, representing 17.06% of income.
- As of 2024, 19.23% of a doctoral degree holder’s income is attributable to the degree.
- Median earnings among doctoral degree holders are equivalent to 186.6% of the median earnings among all workers.
- The unemployment rate among doctoral degree holders is 1.2%, 63.6% lower than the average unemployment rate.
- The 2024 job market supported 4.511 million doctorate or professional degree holders.
- By 2034, 4.766 million doctoral or professional degree holders will have employment.
- It will take 11 full working years for a 2023 graduate to see a return on their doctoral’s degree.
- Earning a doctoral degree takes an average of 5.7 years; for a new graduate:
- The cost of an average doctoral degree totals $113,057 in tuition and fees alone (excluding the cost of room and board).
- Potential income lost while earning a doctoral degree totals $393,411.
- Income regained through work study and teaching assistantships totals $188,105.
- The initial investment for a doctoral degree is $330,399.
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 (2014-2024) | $201,679 | -9.75% |
| 20 (2004-2024) | $315,120 | 163.79% |
| 30 (1994-2024) | $391,196 | 451.51% |
| 40 (1984-2024) | $442,213 | 955.98% |
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | $659,324 | 139.91% |
| 20 | $1,811,133 | 559.03% |
| 30 | $3,926,333 | 1,328.70% |
| 40 | $7,760,114 | 2,723.72% |
Professional Degree Return on Investment
Based on median earnings among workers aged 25 to 64, a professional degree has a lifetime ROI that is projected to increase 162.4% over 40 years (from 1,038.07% for those working from 1984-2024 to 2,723.72% for careers spanning 2024-2064).
- A 2023 graduate with a professional degree can expect to make a lifetime total of $16.953 million over a 40-year career.
- Assuming a graduate has no other advanced degrees, $7.760 million of lifetime earnings are attributable to a professional degree, representing 45.78% of total income.
- As of 2024, 34.70% of a professional degree holder’s income is attributable to the degree.
- Median earnings among professional degree holders are equivalent to 193.5% of the median earnings among all workers.
- The unemployment rate among professional degree holders is 1.3%, 60.6% lower than the average unemployment rate.
- The 2034 job market will employ 5.65% more doctoral and professional degree holders than the 2024 market does.
- It will take five (5) full working years for a 2023 graduate to see a return on their professional degree.
- Ideally, a typical professional program takes three (3) years; for a new graduate:
- The cost of an average professional degree totals $61,294 in tuition and fees alone (excluding the cost of room and board).
- Potential income lost while earning a professional degree totals $211,468.
- Income regained through work study, assistantships, and internships totals $79,010
- The initial investment for a professional degree is $274,819.
| Years in Workforce | Degree-Based Earnings | ROI |
|---|---|---|
| 10 (2014-2024) | $351,021 | 81.86% |
| 20 (2004-2024) | $514,164 | 247.52% |
| 30 (1994-2024) | $630,993 | 537.13% |
| 40 (1984-2024) | $714,656 | 1,038.07% |
Calculating ROI
In this context, return on investment or ROI refers to the lifetime cost of a degree against the lifetime earnings dependent upon that degree. While these calculations include a number of variables (such as average tuition and starting salaries), infinite combinations of these variables yield a unique ROI.
For example, a bachelor’s degree earner may earn more or less than the average starting salary depending on their industry, where they earned their degree, degree-related experience such as internships, and even the physical location of their job’s home office. Statistics indicate that even things like sex and gender or race and ethnicity can have an effect on pay rates.
Student loan interest is based on average borrowing, federal interest rates, and average repayment periods (when the average is unavailable, EDI uses ideal repayment periods).
Calculated earnings assume an average 4.0% annual raise based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and independent, nonpartisan nonprofit The Conference Board. Degree-based earnings exclude the median earnings of next-lowest diploma or degree level. For example, bachelor’s degree-based earnings are calculated by excluding the median earnings of the average high school graduate (or equivalent); median earnings among workers with some college or non-degree credentials are not considered.
For degrees by major, the initial degree investment is equivalent to the cost of tuition and fees plus room and board as well as estimated student loan interest. For returns by education level, the initial investment takes into account average tuition and fees (plus room and board for associate’s and bachelor’s program graduates) and the value of potential income lost during school. Among master’s, professional, and doctoral degree holders, the calculated cost of their degree does not include the cost of previous degrees (such as bachelor’s).
For more detailed reports about the potential cost of an advanced degree, see the Average Cost of College, Average Cost of a Master’s Degree, and Average Cost of a Doctorate.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Department of Education National Center of Education Statistics
- U.S. Department of Education Office of Federal Student Aid
- The Conference Board, U.S. Salary Increase Budgets
- National Bureau of Economic Research, The Costs Of and Net Returns to College Major
- U.S. Census, American Community Survey
- Urban Institute, Understanding College Affordability: Borrowing
- One Wisconsin Now, Twenty to Life: Higher Education Turning Into Multi-Decade Debt Sentence
- U.S. Department of Education, Education Resources Information Center
- National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, Completing College
- National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, Survey of Earned Doctorates
- Georgetown University, A First Try at ROI: Ranking 4,500 Colleges
- Social Security Administration, National Average Wage Index