Artificial Intelligence: Top 10 University Majors for Careers and Salaries in the Next 30 Years

Predicting the best university majors for the future requires consideration of technological and economic trends, as well as societal needs (Shutterstock)

Choosing a university major is a challenging decision, especially for young people preparing to enter universities and institutes. The question of what major to choose for study—and later for work—becomes crucial, especially with the rising unemployment rates among university graduates in the Arab world.

In 2023, youth unemployment in Arab countries reached the highest rate globally, standing at 28%. This marked a 3.3 percentage point decrease from its peak of 31.3% in 2020, but still one percentage point above the pre-pandemic level of 27% in 2019, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Young people with university degrees in many Arab countries face high unemployment rates. For instance, in Jordan, the unemployment rate among university degree holders reached 25.1% in 2023, according to data from the Jordanian Department of Statistics.

Thus, selecting a university major that can withstand the test of time becomes a critical factor, particularly in light of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the challenge of automation, artificial intelligence, and the rapid changes occurring in the global job market.

To address this challenge, Al Jazeera Net asked artificial intelligence, specifically the latest version of ChatGPT (GPT-4), a specific question:

What are the top 10 university majors for careers in the next 30 years? We also inquired about the expected salaries both now and 30 years from now for these majors. Here is the answer:

Predicting the best university majors for the future requires examining technological and economic trends and societal needs.

Here are 10 majors that are likely to remain relevant and in demand 30 years from now:

10th Major: Education

Specifically, education in certain fields such as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). With the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution and the rapid pace of technological advancements, there will be a growing and increasing demand for educators in these disciplines.

We asked artificial intelligence for more information and details about this field, and here is the response:

This major is not only about teaching but also about fostering a new generation of innovators and thinkers.

Key aspects include curriculum development, integrating technology, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking.

Current and Projected Salaries

Salaries vary significantly based on factors such as geographic location, education level, experience, and specific roles, as well as the country or region in which the teacher works. For example, the salary of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teachers in the United States and Scandinavian countries differs from those in the Arab region and developing countries.

Current Salaries (2024):

• STEM teachers (K-12): $60,000 to $70,000 annually.
• Higher education teachers (colleges/universities): $70,000 to $120,000 annually.
• Projected Salaries in 5 Years (2029):
• K-12 teachers: $65,000 to $80,000 annually.
• Higher education teachers: $75,000 to $130,000 annually.
• Projected Salaries in 30 Years (2054):
• K-12 teachers: $90,000 to $120,000 annually.
• Higher education teachers: $100,000 to $180,000 annually.

9th Major: Mental Health and Psychology

By 2030, depression and mental health issues are expected to surpass heart disease as the leading global health concern. The rise in mental health problems is driven by various factors, including economic challenges such as debt and unemployment, social issues like domestic violence and urban living stress, along with wars, environmental degradation, and disasters.

According to the World Health Organization, by 2030, mental health disorders will be the most significant factor contributing to the global disease burden. With increasing awareness of mental health issues, graduates in clinical psychology, mental health professionals, neurology, counseling, and psychiatric nursing will play a crucial role in providing care and support.

Current and Projected Salaries in Mental Health and Psychology

Salaries in psychology and mental health fields vary significantly based on education level, specialization, location, and type of work. Below are the current and projected salaries:

Current Salaries (2024):

• Clinical psychologists: $85,000 to $100,000 annually.
• Counseling psychologists: $70,000 to $90,000 annually.
• -School psychologists: $70,000 to $80,000 annually.
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners: $100,000 to $130,000 annually.
• Mental health counselors: $50,000 to $65,000 annually.

Projected Salaries in 5 Years (2029):

• Clinical psychologists: $90,000 to $110,000 annually.
• Counseling psychologists: $75,000 to $95,000 annually.
• School psychologists: $75,000 to $85,000 annually.
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners: $110,000 to $150,000 annually.
• Mental health counselors: $55,000 to $70,000 annually.

Projected Salaries in 30 Years (2054):

• Clinical psychologists: $110,000 to $150,000 annually.
• Counseling psychologists: $90,000 to $120,000 annually.
• School psychologists: $85,000 to $110,000 annually.
• Psychiatric nurse practitioners: $130,000 to $200,000 annually.
• Mental health counselors: $70,000 to $90,000 annually. 

8th Major: Biotechnology/Bioengineering

Biotechnology is a field focused on the development of drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tools. It includes genetic engineering, tissue engineering, gene therapy, personalized medicine, drug development, and agricultural product improvement.

Bioengineering applies engineering principles to medical, biological, and agricultural fields. This includes designing and improving medical devices, equipment, and software, as well as agricultural biotechnology.

Biomedical engineering focuses on applying engineering principles in medical, biological, and agricultural fields (Shutterstock)

Career Paths:

• Research Scientist: Conducts experiments and develops new products.
• Quality Control Analyst: Ensures products meet safety and efficacy standards.
• Biomedical Engineer: Designs and tests medical devices and equipment.
• Clinical Engineer: Works in healthcare settings to manage medical technology.
• Biomechanical Engineer: Focuses on the mechanics of biological systems and devices.

Current and Future Salaries:

• Current Salary (2024): $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
• Salary in 5 Years: $80,000 to $100,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $120,000 to $180,000 per year.

7th Major: Business Administration

Business Administration is a versatile degree that prepares students for various roles across different industries. The primary areas of study include organization, planning, marketing, financial analysis, investment strategies, human resources management, operations, and entrepreneurship.

Career Paths and Opportunities:

• Business Analyst
• Marketing Manager
• Financial Analyst
• Human Resources Manager
• Operations Manager
• Sales Manager
• Financial Consultant
• Entrepreneur

Current and Future Salaries:

• Current Salary (2024): $60,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience and position.
• Salary in 5 Years: $70,000 to $110,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $100,000 to $150,000 per year.

6th Major: Information Technology/Networking

Information Technology and Networking is a dynamic field focused on using technology to manage and transmit information. Skills in IT, cloud computing, and network security will be crucial as businesses increasingly rely on technology.

Key Areas of Study:

• Designing, implementing, and managing networks, including Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and cloud networks.
• Managing and maintaining IT systems and servers, ensuring they operate efficiently and securely.
• Cloud computing, including storage efficiency and processing power.
• Database management for efficient data storage and retrieval.
• IT project management.

Career Paths and Opportunities:

• Network Administrator
• Systems Analyst
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Cloud Solutions Engineer
• IT Support Specialist
• Network Engineer
• IT Project Manager

Current and Future Salaries:

• Current Salary (2024): $80,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
• Salary in 5 Years: $90,000 to $120,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $130,000 to $180,000 per year.

5th Major: Engineering

Engineering professions are essential pillars of today’s and tomorrow’s economy. When asked about the top five engineering specializations in demand over the next 30 years, the answer highlighted the following:

The top five engineering disciplines expected to see high demand over the coming decades include:

1. Software Engineering: With rapid technological growth, software engineers will be vital for developing applications, systems, and innovations in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
2. Data Engineering: As organizations increasingly rely on data analytics for decision-making, data engineers who can build and maintain data infrastructures will be crucial.
3. Biomedical Engineering: The evolving healthcare sector will create demand for biomedical engineers to design medical devices, develop healthcare technologies, and improve patient care.
4. Environmental Engineering: With growing concerns about climate change and sustainability, environmental engineers will be needed to develop solutions for pollution control, waste management, and renewable energy.
5. Mechanical Engineering: This field remains essential due to advancements in robotics, manufacturing, automotive design, materials innovation, and energy systems.

Current and Future Salaries:

Engineering salaries vary depending on specialization, geography, and experience. However, salaries are projected to stay within the following ranges for the next 30 years, as predicted by AI:

• Current Salary (2024): $80,000 to $120,000 per year.
• Salary in 5 Years: $90,000 to $130,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $130,000 to $180,000 per year.

4th Major: Environmental Sciences

Environmental science is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on understanding the interactions between the environment and human activities. It integrates principles from various disciplines, including:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Geology
• Social Sciences

Demand for environmental scientists and specialists is expected to increase as concerns about climate change, resource management, and environmental degradation grow (Shutterstock)

With rising concerns about climate change, resource management, and environmental degradation, the demand for environmental scientists and specialists is expected to grow. Key employers will include industries, renewable energy companies, environmental consultancies, and government agencies.

Career Paths and Opportunities:

Graduates of environmental science can pursue various careers such as:

• Environmental Specialist
• Air Pollution Specialist
• Household and Medical Waste Specialist
• Environmental Consultant
• Conservation Scientist
• Wildlife Biologist
• Environmental Educator
• Sustainability Manager
• Environmental Regulatory Affairs Specialist
• Climate Change Research Scientist

Current and Future Salaries:

• Current Salary (2024): $60,000 to $90,000 per year.
• Salary in 5 Years: $70,000 to $100,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $100,000 to $140,000 per year.

3rd Major: Nursing/Healthcare Management

Nursing, medical assisting, and public health professions will remain vital due to ongoing health challenges, and these roles are fundamental to the global healthcare system.

Career Paths and Opportunities:

• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Nurse Practitioner (NP)
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Nursing Educator
• Nursing Manager
• Public Health Specialist
• Physician Assistant

Current and Future Salaries:

• Current Salary (2024): $70,000 to $100,000 per year.
• Salary in 5 Years: $80,000 to $110,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $120,000 to $160,000 per year.

2nd Major: Data Science/Analytics

Data science and analytics is a rapidly evolving field focused on extracting insights from data to inform decision-making and drive business strategy. It combines statistics, computer science, and domain expertise to analyze complex data sets.

Key Areas of Study:

• Statistical Analysis
• Machine Learning
• Data Visualization
• Data Mining and Pattern Recognition
• Data Storage, Management, and Retrieval

Data science and analytics is a rapidly evolving field focused on extracting insights from data to inform decision-making and drive business strategy (Shutterstock)

Career Paths and Opportunities:

• Data Scientist/Analyst
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Quantitative Analyst
• Data Engineer
• Statistician

Current and Future Salaries:

• Current Salary (2024): $100,000 to $130,000 per year.
• Salary in 5 Years: $120,000 to $160,000 per year.
• Salary in 30 Years: $180,000 to $250,000 per year.

1st Major: Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and Software Development

These fields are the backbone of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, expected to experience massive growth over the next 30 years. Artificial intelligence, in particular, is at the core of this revolution and is now being studied as an independent discipline in many modern universities and institutes, though it intersects with several other mentioned fields.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning:

AI involves developing computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as thinking, learning, problem-solving, perception, language understanding, and decision-making.

Machine Learning (ML), a subset of AI, focuses on creating algorithms that allow computers to learn from and make predictions based on data. Unlike traditional programming, where rules are explicitly coded, ML algorithms improve their performance as they process more data.

Key Areas:

• AI Development
• Machine Learning Models
• Cybersecurity
• Software Engineering

These fields are crucial for shaping the future of technology and will have a significant influence on all aspects of society and business.

Career Paths and Job Opportunities:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are rapidly growing fields with diverse career opportunities across various industries.

The demand for skilled professionals in these areas continues to rise, making it a promising field for those interested in technology and innovation.

Here are some career prospects:

• AI Engineer  
• Machine Learning Engineer  
• Data Scientist  
• Deep Learning Engineer  
• Natural Language Processing Engineer  
• Robotics Engineer  
• Computer Vision Engineer  
• AI Research Scientist  
• AI Ethics Consultant  

Current Salaries (2024):

• Entry-level positions: $80,000 - $110,000 per year  
• Mid-level positions: $110,000 - $150,000 per year  
• Senior-level positions: $150,000 - $200,000 per year  

Salary Projections for 5 Years (2029):

• Entry-level positions: $90,000 - $120,000 per year  
• Mid-level positions: $130,000 - $170,000 per year  
• Senior-level positions: $180,000 - $250,000 per year  

Salary Projections for 30 Years (2054):

• Entry-level positions: $120,000 - $160,000 per year  
• Mid-level positions: $180,000 - $240,000 per year  
• Senior-level positions: $250,000 - $350,000 per year