College Majors and Earnings: What Federal Aid Data Reveals

A new federal earnings analysis looks at how a graduate’s major and college affect their paycheck four years after leaving campus. The study, visualized by graphics reporter Arfa Momin, focuses on students who received federal financial aid and tracks their earnings across different majors and institutions.

The data highlight that where you went and what you studied can make a noticeable difference in early‑career income, though the researchers caution the findings only cover the first four years post‑graduation. A later career change could shift the trajectory entirely.

While the graphics reveal patterns, the report stops short of naming specific majors or schools as winners or losers. Instead, it offers a broad view of how education choices intersect with earnings, giving readers a clearer picture of the financial stakes tied to their degree choices.