Your major, your earning potential

Earning a college degree has become a natural next step after high school, with nearly 70% of 2016 high school graduates enrolled in college this year. Now more than ever, it’s for good reason: Having a college degree is an investment in your future earning potential. According to the Economic Policy Institute, on average college grads earned 56% more than high school grads in 2015. That was up from 51% in 1999 — the largest such gap in EPI’s figures, dating back to 1973.

But what kind of earnings does your specific major net? Or, if you’re still picking a major, which field of study might increase your chances of a higher salary post-tassel turn? Here’s a look at the average starting salaries of 34 majors, according to National Association of Colleges and Employers. Keep in mind these are averages: Salaries fluctuate greatly according to where you live, and other factors.