Minnesota Students Pursuing Higher Education Face Diverse salary Outcomes Based on Degree Choice
For students in Minnesota considering their post-secondary education, teh choice of major can significantly impact future earning potential. Recent data highlights a substantial disparity in salaries earned by graduates with different bachelor’s degrees, offering valuable insights for prospective students navigating their academic and career paths.
According to information compiled by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Progress (DEED), graduates in fields such as Management, Inspection, and Architectural Engineering have historically commanded the highest salaries. Specifically, Management, Inspection, and related fields averaged an remarkable $118,000 annually. Architectural Engineering followed closely,with graduates earning an average of $108,000. Computer Engineering also proved to be a lucrative path, with an average salary of $106,000.
Conversely, DEED’s analysis of bachelor’s degree programs across Minnesota over the past seven years also identified fields that generated the lowest salaries. Graduates with degrees in Dance reported the lowest average earnings at $27,000.Other programs with lower salary outcomes included Religious Studies ($38,000), film/Video ($39,000), drama/Theater ($39,000), and Diversity studies ($43,000).
For those aspiring to enter these higher-paying fields, Minnesota offers a robust network of public higher education institutions. The Minnesota Office of Higher Education points to the state’s seven universities as key providers of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. these institutions include Bemidji State University, Metropolitan State University, Minnesota State university, Mankato, Minnesota State University moorhead, Southwest Minnesota State University, St. Cloud State University, and Winona State University.
Along with the state universities, the University of Minnesota system comprises five distinct four-year campuses, providing a wide array of academic offerings. These campuses are the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, University of Minnesota Crookston, University of Minnesota Duluth, University of Minnesota Morris, and University of Minnesota Rochester.
For individuals seeking career advancement without returning to formal education, exploring high-paying job markets within Minnesota remains a viable option. Further information on the highest-paying jobs and those with the most openings in the state is available for those interested in choice career development strategies.
