5 College Degrees With the Best Starting Salaries

2. Petroleum Engineering

Median Salary: $131,800

As the primary source of fuel for transportation, industry, and electricity generation, petroleum products are indispensable in modern society. Technological advancements enable the extraction of oil and gas from increasingly challenging environments, including deep-sea drilling and unconventional reservoirs like shale formations. Additionally, ongoing research focuses on enhancing extraction efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and diversifying energy sources. Moreover, emerging economies’ rapid industrialization drives the demand for petroleum products, ensuring a sustained need for skilled petroleum engineers. Thus, the field offers opportunities for innovation, career growth, and contributing to global energy security and sustainability.