The data reveals persistent gender patterns across fields. Men hold 67-90% of degrees in engineering, computer science, finance, and economics, while women dominate psychology, education, nursing, and social work at rates of 71-92%. Yet women's median pay across all majors is only 70.8% of men's earnings.

For female applicants considering STEM fields, this imbalance creates unique opportunities. Universities, tech companies, and private donors are investing heavily in scholarships and mentorships for "non-traditional" students. Similarly, male students interested in early childhood education or nursing can access diversity funding. The key is negotiating internships and first jobs aggressively to close wage gaps early in your career.

The age distribution of degree holders reveals emerging trends in the labor market. Nearly 40% of elementary teachers are 65 or older, with only 11% in the 25-34 age range. This points to impending teacher shortages and job opportunities for the near future.

Conversely, computer science, biology, graphic design, and criminal justice are packed with younger graduates, roughly 29% under 35 in each field. Expect fierce competition but also rapid innovation in these Gen Z-dominated sectors.

Significant earning disparities exist across racial and ethnic lines within the same majors. In electrical engineering, Asian graduates earn a median of $129,800 while Black graduates earn $87,920—highlighting persistent inequities across 30 of the 34 majors tracked by the Census.

Underrepresented students should research colleges' track records on internship pipelines and support for affinity organizations like the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), and Society of Women Engineers (SWE). These networks often translate into higher-paying, better-aligned first jobs.

Additional strategies include seeking out colleges with strong diversity programs, robust alumni networks in your field, and faculty mentorship opportunities. Consider historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) or Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs) that may offer stronger support systems and networking opportunities. 

Where you study—and work—matters tremendously. Washington State leads all states with 43.8% of graduates in science and engineering, while San Francisco tops metro areas at 44.3%. The earnings reflect these clusters: bachelor's-level salaries average $114,800 in San Francisco versus $61,500 in Orlando. Science and engineering salaries range from $105,300 in D.C. to $60,390 in Mississippi.

When choosing a college, you are also choosing an internship market that often becomes your job market. Consider whether the campus location aligns with your target industry.

What you do with your degree matters almost as much as the degree itself. Nearly three in ten graduates end up in management, business, or finance roles regardless of their major. Computer science majors who stay in tech roles earn a median of $122,000, while classmates who drift into unrelated jobs average only $89,000.

The lesson: pursue internships and campus projects closely tied to your curriculum. Career alignment pays dividends.

The data points to a clear strategy for prospective students:

Research earnings potential before committing to a major. Use salary databases and career centers to understand realistic starting salaries and long-term earning trajectories. Passion matters, but financial realities matter too.

Leverage diversity gaps for scholarship and networking advantages, regardless of your background. If you are underrepresented in your chosen field, seek out targeted funding and mentorship programs. If you're in the majority, look for leadership opportunities in diversity initiatives.

Budget realistically for graduate school if your chosen field demands advanced credentials. Calculate the full cost of additional education against potential salary increases. Some fields justify the investment; others don't.

Choose strategically by selecting colleges embedded in your target industry's ecosystem. A computer science program in Silicon Valley or Seattle offers different opportunities than one in a rural setting. Location shapes internship and job prospects.

Seek aligned experiences once enrolled to stay on your major's most lucrative career path. Prioritize internships, research projects, and campus activities that connect directly to your field rather than drifting into unrelated roles.

Finding a good-fit college means achieving the right balance of academic, social, and financial fit. While you shouldn't choose a college based solely on earning potential, understanding the financial implications of your choices ensures you can pursue your passions without compromising your future stability. When academic interest, campus culture, and financial reality align, you've found more than just a college—you have found your pathway to success.