15 Highest-Paying Jobs with a Bachelor’s Degree

Earning a bachelor’s degree immediately gives you access to a broad range of high-paying entry-level roles. Your four-year credential, especially paired with internships and certifications, can translate into a strong starting salary with clear advancement opportunities.

Our 2026 High-Paying, New Grad Jobs Report presents a list of high-paying jobs that you can pursue as a fresh grad:

1. Product marketing manager

• Median annual salary: $159,660
• Median hourly wage: $76.76
• Top 10% of earners: $239,200
• Number of jobs (2024): 434,000
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 6%

What they do

Product marketing managers work on products with different teams in the company. You’ll create campaigns, decide where ads should run, and figure out pricing. Additionally, researching customers’ needs and meeting with clients to share marketing ideas will be a core part of the job.

How to become one

To become a product marketing manager, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field. After 1–2 years in entry roles such as sales, market research, or promotions, you’ll gain the expertise needed to take on larger projects. If you’re ambitious enough, you can get a product marketing manager role within 12–24 months.

2. Machine learning engineer

• Median annual salary: $140,910
• Median hourly wage: $67.74
• Top 10% of earners: $232,120
• Number of jobs (2024): 40,300
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 20%

What they do

Machine learning engineers build software that teaches computers to learn from data. After turning raw information into models, those models will become products. After the product is released, you’ll monitor its performance and make adjustments based on new data that comes in to keep the AI software running smoothly.

How to become one

To become a machine learning engineer, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, or a related field. While you’re in school, try to take classes about machine learning. You can also practice by doing simple projects or joining internships where you learn to train basic models.

As you continue, consider getting specialized certifications to gain expertise in deep learning. While building out your career, keeping a collection of real machine learning projects can show what you’re capable of and help you get a job as an engineer.

3. Avionics systems engineer

• Median annual salary: $134,830
• Median hourly wage: $64.82
• Top 10% of earners: $205,850
• Number of jobs (2024): 71,600
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 6%

What they do

Avionics systems engineers help design and put together the electronic parts that help airplanes fly. These include tools for navigation, communication, flying the plane, and checking the weather. You’ll work with pilots, technicians, and other engineers to figure out what the system needs to do, then build, test, and fix the equipment to ensure everything works safely during flight.

How to become one

To become an avionics systems engineer, you usually need a bachelor’s degree in aerospace, electrical, or electronics engineering, preferably from an ABET-accredited program. When starting your first job, you’ll likely help more experienced engineers build and fix equipment.

In the first couple of years, you can grow your skills by working with real airplane test data and learning how planes get approved for flight. This experience will help you take on larger jobs, such as designing and integrating full airplane systems.

4. Software developer

• Median annual salary: $131,450
• Median hourly wage: $63.20
• Top 10% of earners: $211,450
• Number of jobs (2024): 1,895,500
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 15%

What they do

Software developers collaborate with users and stakeholders to understand what a software app needs to do. They then design and build the underlying systems that enable those tasks.

How to become one

Software developers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. While in school, doing internships or building coding projects helps you learn by doing. As you learn new coding tools and languages, you can grow in your job. Later, you might become a senior developer, a testing team leader, or even a manager in charge of the whole software process.

5. IT security analyst

• Median annual salary: $124,910
• Median hourly wage: $60.05
• Top 10% of earners: $186,420
• Number of jobs (2024): 182,800
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 29%

What they do

These professionals help keep a company’s computers safe. You’ll use special tools like firewalls and encryption to stop hackers from getting in. When you see problems in the system, you’ll check what happened and recommend fixes. You’ll also make standards to keep information safe and create backup plans in case something goes wrong. By looking at past problems and watching for warning signs, you help keep the network safe from new threats.

How to become one

You can become an information security analyst by getting a bachelor’s degree in computer science or something similar. At the beginning, you can work in tech jobs and set up networks or computer systems. This early-stage experience will help you learn how to find problems and keep computer systems safe.

As you build on-the-job skills, earning certifications demonstrates your expertise to employers. As you get more experience, you can get promoted to roles like leading a security team or eventually becoming the head of the whole security department.

6. Electrical engineer

• Median annual salary: $118,780
• Median hourly wage: $57.11
• Top 10% of earners: $175,460
• Number of jobs (2024): 287,900
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 7%

What they do

Electrical engineers design and develop electrical and electronic equipment, while also testing prototypes to make sure they’re reliable and safe. You’ll then supervise the manufacturing process to bring those designs to life. During projects, you’ll document procedures and then recommend design improvements, or make repairs.

How to become one

To become an electrical engineer, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in electrical or electronics engineering from an ABET-accredited program. Doing internships or co-ops can help you gain hands-on experience. Later on, getting a Professional Engineering (PE) license can help you advance into higher positions.

7. Mechanical engineer

• Median annual salary: $102,320
• Median hourly wage: $49.19
• Top 10% of earners: $161,240
• Number of jobs (2024): 293,100
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 9%

What they do

Mechanical engineers solve problems by designing and testing machines and devices, like engines and elevators. You’ll use computers to create prototypes and designs. Once the design works well, your role will ensure the machines are functioning properly and up to standard.

How to become one

To become a mechanical engineer, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Working in internships or co-ops will help you gain hands-on experience with CAD tools, prototyping, and testing. A typical entry-level role includes designing, analyzing, or testing mechanical systems and devices. You can get a Professional Engineering (PE) license to work as a fully licensed mechanical engineer.

8. Financial advisor

• Median annual salary: $102,140
• Median hourly wage: $49.11
• Top 10% of earners: $239,200
• Number of jobs (2024): 326,000
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 10%

What they do

Financial advisors help clients understand their financial goals. You create personalized plans to help them save for college, buy a home, or plan for retirement. You’ll recommend investments or other saving strategies that match their client’s case. If anything in their life or the market changes, you’ll help adjust their plans and give advice about things like taxes or property investments.

How to become one

To become a financial advisor, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field. To work in a financial firm, you’ll need any required licenses and to register with state regulators or the SEC as needed. You can also advance your career by getting more certifications, most commonly the CFP designation.

9. Financial analyst

• Median annual salary: $101,190
• Median hourly wage: $48.99
• Top 10% of earners: $180,550
• Number of jobs (2024): 429,000
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 6%

What they do

Financial analysts help people and businesses decide the best places to invest their money. For instance, this role involves studying the economy and what companies are doing to figure out which ones might grow. You could help big groups like retirement funds or investment firms, or give advice to teams that sell things like stocks and bonds. Many analysts focus on one type of business or one part of the world, and they keep an eye on news and rules that might affect money decisions.

How to become one

Most financial analysts begin with a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field. Internships at banks or investment firms provide hands-on experience and help build connections. New hires typically need a FINRA license through employer sponsorship.

10. Project manager

• Median annual salary: $100,750
• Median hourly wage: $48.44
• Top 10% of earners: $165,790
• Number of jobs (2024): 1,046,300
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 6%

What they do

Project managers work with clients on creating a detailed plan to achieve their project’s goals. Your job will involve being in charge of managing tasks, timelines, budgets, and needed resources. You’ll guide the team and deal with issues to keep everything on schedule and within budget. If changes arise, you’ll be the one to communicate updates to stakeholders so everyone stays aligned.

How to become one

To become a project manager, you can start by earning a bachelor’s degree in business, project management, or a related field. Some employers also value degrees in technical areas like IT or engineering. Earning a certification such as the PMP from PMI can demonstrate your skills and boost your prospects. Over time, as you manage small projects successfully, you can move on to larger, more complex initiatives.

11. UX designer

• Median annual salary: $95,380
• Median hourly wage: $45.85
• Top 10% of earners: $192,180
• Number of jobs (2024): 214,900
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 7%

What they do

UX designers focus on making websites and apps easy and enjoyable for people to use. You might figure out what’s confusing for users through interviews, surveys, or observations. Then, you’d make simple drawings or models (called wireframes or prototypes) to plan out how the website or app should work. You’ll test these early designs with real users to find problems. After, you can also work with designers and developers to improve the final product so it’s easy to use on phones, tablets, and computers.

How to become one

Many UX designers study subjects like design, computer science, or how people use technology. You’ll need knowledge of tools like Figma or Sketch, and basic coding like HTML and CSS. To show your skills, you can work on personal or freelance projects.

12. Industrial designer

• Median annual salary: $79,450
• Median hourly wage: $38.20
• Top 10% of earners: $134,840
• Number of jobs (2024): 30,600
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 3%

What they do

Industrial designers blend art, engineering, and business to create everyday products. These products range from cars and appliances to furniture and toys. You’ll research user needs and sketch or model design concepts using both 2D and 3D CAD software. In this position, you’ll also work with engineers and manufacturers to ensure designs are practical and marketable.

How to become one

To become an industrial designer, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in industrial design, architecture, engineering, or a related field. These programs cover drawing, CADD, 3D modeling, materials, and manufacturing methods. Projects and internships will allow you to build a professional portfolio showcasing your design work. Submit your portfolio when applying for entry-level roles to show your skills. Once hired, continue refining your portfolio with real-world projects.

13. Marketing research analyst

• Median annual salary: $76,950
• Median hourly wage: $37.00
• Top 10% of earners: $144,610
• Number of jobs (2024): 941,700
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 7%

What they do

Market analysts study what people like to buy and what’s happening in the market. In this role, you’d be helping companies figure out what to sell and how much to charge. You’d also be collecting information using surveys and interviews. You’ll then use statistical software to find trends and guess future demand.

How to become one

You can start by getting a bachelor’s degree in something like marketing, statistics, or business. After that, you can apply for entry-level roles that work with research or data analysis to learn how to make surveys and write reports. Getting extra certificates can help you get better jobs later. If you keep practicing with data tools and learning about new trends, you’ll have a good chance of doing well as a market analyst.

14. Sales representative

• Median annual salary: $74,100
• Median hourly wage: $35.63
• Top 10% of earners: $134,470
• Number of jobs (2024): 1,613,600
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 1%

What they do

Sales representatives reach out to potential and existing customers to understand their needs and show how your products or services can help. Once a customer is interested, you negotiate the terms to finalize a sale. After, you’ll check in to solve any issues, and keep track of feedback and sales data to adjust your approach.

How to become one

Most entry-level sales representatives start with a high school diploma. However, if you’re selling technical or scientific products, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in a related field. As a new hire, you’ll go through company training programs to learn product details and sales techniques. Earning certifications like the Certified Sales Professional (CSP) can boost credibility and skills.

15. Graphic designer

• Median annual salary: $61,300
• Median hourly wage: $29.47
• Top 10% of earners: $103,030
• Number of jobs (2024): 265,900
• Estimated job growth (2024–2034): 2%

What they do

Graphic designers use digital tools to create brochures, websites, advertisements, or reports. In this role, you’ll choose fonts, colors, images, and layouts to communicate the client’s vision. By combining text and imagery, you’ll transform information into engaging graphics, logos, or layouts.

How to become one

To become a graphic designer, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related fine arts field. While studying, you can build a strong portfolio with your class or internship projects. After graduation, your portfolio will come in handy to land entry‐level roles or freelance work.

3 job-seeking tips for bachelor’s degree holders

Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York indicates that individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, 50% more annually than those with only a high school diploma.

Investing in your education delivers tangible returns, and pursuing a career you’re passionate about is within reach. Below are some tips to guide you toward your ideal job:

1. Showcase relevant projects and internships

As a new bachelor’s graduate, employers know you may not have years of experience, so highlight hands-on work from your degree, such as capstone projects, research assignments, or internships that demonstrate your technical skills and understanding of industry tools.

For instance, if you completed a data analysis project using Python or led a marketing campaign in a class, include concise bullet points on your resume that describe your role, outcomes, and any measurable impact.

2. Leverage your university network

Look into your university’s alumni groups, career fairs, and faculty connections to identify entry-level openings. Reach out to recent graduates in your field on LinkedIn, attend virtual or in-person meetups, and ask professors for introductions to industry contacts. Building relationships early can lead to referral opportunities and insider insights into company cultures and hiring priorities.

3. Tailor your application to each role

Rather than submitting a generic resume, study the job description and weave in keywords that reflect both your bachelor’s coursework and any certifications (e.g., “Certified Associate in Project Management”). Adjust your objective statement or resume summary to align with the employer’s needs, and reorder your skills section so the most relevant abilities appear first, such as data visualization tools for an analytics role or proficiency with CAD software for an engineering position.

Methodology

Our team’s approach involved an analysis of Newgrad-jobs.com’s 2025 Entry-Level Jobs for New Graduates in the U.S., focusing on identifying occupations in each sector that are high-paying and hiring recent graduates.

We then consulted the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to identify the annual median salary for each role, and organized the list to find the jobs with the highest pay. We also identified roles with strong growth projections and included additional information on the roles.

All the jobs listed are above the U.S. median annual income of $49,500 as of May 2024.

Limitations

The study is limited to occupations in the United States and may not reflect global trends. Please note that labor market conditions are subject to change, and the data reflects the situation as of January 2026.

Sources

• Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Distribution of Annual Wages for Recent College Graduates
• Newgrad-jobs.com, 2025 Entry-Level Jobs for New Graduates | U.S.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Finder

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