What should I major in college?
Most Future Proof Jobs

Kai-Fu Lee
4 min readOct 19, 2024

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For a new college student looking to choose a major that will be future-proof, several fields stand out due to their projected growth, demand, and relevance in the evolving job market. I asked a really smart AI Search Engine BeaGo for the most future-proof jobs and the corresponding majors:

1. Software Engineering

  • Median Salary: $130,160
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Programming, software development, problem-solving, and familiarity with various programming languages like Python, Java, and C++.
  • Major: Computer Science or Software Engineering
  • Description: Software developers create and maintain software applications and systems. This field is continuously growing due to the increasing reliance on technology across all industries.

2. Data Science and Analytics

  • Median Salary: $156,524
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Data analysis, statistical skills, proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, and knowledge of machine learning algorithms.
  • Major: Data Science, Statistics, or Computer Science
  • Description: Data scientists analyze large datasets to extract insights and support decision-making processes. This role is crucial in industries ranging from finance to healthcare.

3. Cybersecurity

  • Median Salary: $120,360
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Knowledge of cybersecurity principles, proficiency in network security, and experience with security tools and technologies.
  • Major: Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or Computer Science
  • Description: Cybersecurity experts protect organizations from cyber threats by implementing security measures and responding to incidents. The demand for cybersecurity professionals is driven by the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks.

4. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

  • Median Salary: $161,286
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Expertise in AI and ML, deep learning, natural language processing, and proficiency in programming languages like Python.
  • Major: Computer Science with a focus on AI/ML or a specialized AI/ML degree
  • Description: AI and ML engineers develop algorithms and models that enable machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. This field is rapidly growing due to advancements in technology and the integration of AI in various industries.

5. Healthcare Professions (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant)

  • Median Salary: $130,020 (Nurse Practitioner)
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Medical knowledge, patient care skills, and the ability to work under pressure.
  • Major: Nursing, Physician Assistant Studies
  • Description: Healthcare professionals are essential due to the aging population and the increasing demand for medical services. Roles like nurse practitioners and physician assistants offer high job security and growth potential.

6. Renewable Energy (e.g., Wind Turbine Technician)

  • Median Salary: $56,260 (Wind Turbine Technician)
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Technical skills related to renewable energy technologies, problem-solving, and mechanical aptitude.
  • Major: Renewable Energy Engineering, Environmental Engineering
  • Description: With the global shift towards sustainable energy sources, careers in renewable energy are becoming increasingly important. Wind turbine technicians, for example, are in high demand due to the expansion of wind energy projects.

7. UX/UI Design

  • Median Salary: Varies widely based on experience and location
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Proficiency in design software like Sketch and Adobe XD, user research skills, and the ability to create intuitive and visually appealing interfaces.
  • Major: Graphic Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
  • Description: UX/UI designers focus on enhancing user experiences through well-designed interfaces. This role is crucial in the digital age where user engagement is key to the success of products and services.

8. Cloud Computing

  • Median Salary: Varies based on specific role (e.g., Cloud Architect)
  • Job Growth: High
  • Skills Required: Proficiency in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform, knowledge of cloud security, and experience with cloud infrastructure management.
  • Major: Computer Science with a focus on cloud computing or a specialized cloud computing degree
  • Description: Cloud computing is transforming industries by providing scalable and cost-effective IT solutions. Professionals skilled in cloud technologies are highly sought after.

These fields offer not only high job security but also significant growth potential and competitive salaries. By choosing a major in one of these areas, new college students can future-proof their careers and ensure they remain relevant in the evolving job market.

To Try BeaGo AI Search yourself:

• iOS: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6670758849

• Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beago.ai

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Kai-Fu Lee
Kai-Fu Lee

Written by Kai-Fu Lee

AI Expert, CEO of Sinovation Ventures (创新工场), founding President of Google China, Author of “AI Superpowers”

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