Top 10 Paying Technology Majors
Discover the top 10 highest-paying technology majors and their earning potential. Explore lucrative careers in IT management, software engineering, and more.
In today's technology-driven world, studying technology-related fields has become increasingly valuable and relevant.
The demand for skilled tech professionals continues to rise across various industries, making technology majors an attractive career choice for many.
This article highlights the top 10 highest-paying technology majors, providing insights into their roles, required education, and potential earnings.
Top 10 Paying Technology Majors
<p>Technology plays a major role in today's society. Almost all industries rely on tech professionals, from information technology to cyber security, which makes a career in technology excellent for job security.
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<p>With that said, technology is always advancing, making continued education a necessity.
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<p>After obtaining a preliminary degree, professionals are well served with future certifications, licensures, or advanced degrees.
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<p>This will ensure that they stay ahead of technological advancements and can keep their skills sharp in this ever-changing career.
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<h3 id="section---1.InformationTechnologyManagement">1. Information Technology Management</h3>
<p><a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Technology_Management_FAQs.html">Information technology (IT) managers</a> play a crucial role in overseeing technology departments, ensuring smooth systems operations, and implementing strategic IT solutions.
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<p>Majoring in information technology management can lead to higher-than-average salaries, especially for professionals with an MBA.
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<p>The median annual salary for IT managers is around $140,242 according to Salary.com.
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<h3 id="section---2.SoftwareEngineering">2. Software Engineering</h3>
<p><a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Software_Design_and_Development_FAQs.html">Software engineering</a> majors focus on developing and testing computer software and systems. They specialize in either systems or application development.
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<p>Graduates with a bachelor's degree in software engineering can expect favorable job prospects.
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<p>Indeed.com reported that the median annual salary for software engineers is approximately $115,097.
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<h3 id="section---3.DatabaseAdministration">3. Database Administration</h3>
<p>Database administrators ensure secure and efficient <a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Database_Design_and_Administration_FAQs.html">database systems</a>.
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<p>They work in various industries, such as search portals, Internet service providers, and government agencies.
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<p>Database administration majors can earn competitive salaries, especially in computer systems design and related fields.
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<p>The median annual salary for database administrators is approximately $96,710, while the highest earners in this career make approximately $124,550.
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<p>Database administration has a projected 10-year job growth of 11%.
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<h3 id="section---4.VideoGameProgramming">4. Video Game Programming</h3>
<p>Video game programmers work on <a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Game_Development_and_Design_FAQs.html">developing games</a> for various platforms, including computers and gaming consoles.
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<p>Staying up-to-date with advancements in the gaming industry can lead to higher salaries and opportunities for career advancement.
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<p>The median annual salary for video game programmers is around $113,255, and the industry continues to experience substantial growth.
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<h3 id="section---5.WebDevelopment">5. Web Development</h3>
<p>Web developers create and program content for websites, ensuring functionality and user experience.
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<p>While formal education is not always mandatory, having a degree or professional certification can enhance job prospects.
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<p><a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Web_Design_and_Development_FAQs.html">Web development</a> offers a median annual salary of approximately $82,722, with the highest-paying job markets located in San Francisco, Atlanta, and Houston.
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<h3 id="section---6.ComputerProgramming">6. Computer Programming</h3>
<p><a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Computer_Programming_FAQs.html">Computer programming</a> majors learn to write and test computer programs.
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<p>While a degree is not always required, having some level of education or certification can improve job prospects.
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<p>The median salary for programmers in 2021 was over $93,000 per year.
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<p>However, the job market for computer programmers is projected to decline slightly due to automation.
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<h3 id="section---7.NetworkEngineering">7. Network Engineering</h3>
<p><a href="https://learn.org/article_directory/Networking_FAQs.html">Network engineering</a> majors design and implement local and wide area networks (LAN/WAN).
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<p>A degree is usually a requirement to secure a position as a network engineer, and certifications are highly recommended.
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<p>The median annual salary for network engineers is approximately $93,651. Herndon, VA, a suburb of Washington, D.C., is the best-paying market for this profession.
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<h3 id="section---8.GameDesign">8. Game Design</h3>
<p><a href="https://learn.org/articles/Game_Designer_Career_and_Salary_FAQs.html">Game designers</a> create video games for various platforms, and this highly competitive industry is rapidly growing.
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<p>Game designers' rate of pay can vary greatly depending on skill level, experience, and location.
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<p>The median range for salary is from $103,920 to $261,299.
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<p>The video game design industry is expected to experience substantial job growth in the coming years.
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<h3 id="section---9.SystemAdministration">9. System Administration</h3>
<p>System administrators are responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining computer systems and networks.
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<p>While a degree is not always mandatory, having at least a bachelor's degree can provide an advantage in the job market.
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<p>The median annual salary for system administrators is approximately $80,741.
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<h3 id="section---10.NetworkManagement">10. Network Management</h3>
<p>Network managers oversee the operations of various networks, including computer and fiber optic networks.
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<p>A degree in network management can lead to roles as network operators, administrators, or planners.
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<p>Experienced network management professionals can earn significantly higher salaries compared to entry-level positions.
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<p>The median annual salary for network managers is approximately $88,486 with a steady projected job growth.
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<h2 id="section---DiscoverTheBestPayingTechnologyMajors">Discover the Best Paying Technology Majors</h2>
<p>In conclusion, studying technology offers numerous opportunities for lucrative careers.
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<p>The top 10 paying technology majors mentioned above provide a glimpse into some of the highest paying roles in the industry.</p>