Using U.S. Census data, the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce put together an analysis of the projected lifetime earnings of 171 undergraduate college majors. The report also details the relationship between undergraduate majors and graduate degree attainment, and it also looks at a host of other factors, broken down by specific majors, that can affect potential earnings, including gender, race and ethnicity. Ultimately, the report provides a clearer picture of what one bachelor's degree means compared to another in the labor market, finding, for example, that over a 40-year career, petroleum engineering majors can expect to earn $4.8 million, while counseling psychology majors could potentially earn $1.16 million.

1. Counseling/Psychology ($29,000)
2. Early Childhood Education ($36,000)
3. Theology and Religious Vocations ($38,000)
4. Human Services and Community Organizations ($38,000)
5. Social Work ($39,000)
6. Drama and Theater Arts ($40,000)
7. Studio Arts ($40,000)
8. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services ($40,000)
9. Visual and Performing Arts ($40,000)
10. Health and Medical Preparatory Programs ($40,000)

Source: Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce

Full Report: What's It Worth?: The Economic Value of College Majors (pdf)