Looking for a major that can make you a millionaire fast? Check out these 10 unexpected options that can turn your dreams into reality in just 5 years.
Are you ready to dive into the world of unique, lesser-known majors that can catapult you into millionaire status in just half a decade?
Look no further! Our latest blog post unveils the secrets to these under-the-radar majors that can pave your way to financial success. Say goodbye to the traditional paths and hello to a world of exciting, lucrative opportunities.
Get ready to embark on a journey that will change your perspective on higher education and open doors to a prosperous future.
In this blog post, we’ve reviewed the majors you didn’t know could make you a millionaire in 5 years, using reliable data from reputable sources such as the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website, Forbes, and the World Report Survey.
Table of Contents
#1. Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Autonomous vehicle engineering is a multidisciplinary field that combines mechanical, software, and electrical engineering to design, develop, and operate self-driving vehicles.
Graduates in this field can work in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and robotics, contributing to the development of autonomous systems that can revolutionize the way we travel.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Kyle Vogt
A software engineer and entrepreneur, co-founded Cruise Automation. This company develops self-driving car technologies. In 2016, General Motors acquired Cruise Automation for a staggering $1 billion.
Vogt’s background in robotics and passion for autonomous vehicles led him to create a company that has now become a significant player in the self-driving car industry.
- Austin Russell
The founder of Luminar Technologies. Russell dropped out of Stanford University to pursue his dream of developing advanced sensor technology for autonomous vehicles. In 2020, at just 25 years old, he became the world’s youngest self-made billionaire after Luminar Technologies went public.
Where can you learn the skills?
Several universities and institutions now offer undergraduate, master’s degree, or non-degree programs in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering. These include:
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Michigan
- Stanford University
What does this program teaches?
An Autonomous Vehicle Engineering program typically covers the following topics:
- Fundamentals of vehicle dynamics and control systems
- Sensor technology and data processing for perception and localization
- Machine learning and artificial intelligence for decision-making in autonomous vehicles
- Software development and integration for vehicle control
- Safety and reliability engineering for autonomous systems
- Legal, ethical, and social implications of autonomous vehicles
Students in this major can expect to gain hands-on experience through projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners. This prepares them for a successful career in the rapidly growing field of autonomous vehicle engineering.
What’s the trend?
While this seemed like a dream a decade ago, it’s here with us. Self-driving car technology is transforming the way we travel.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $27,000 per year
- High Range: $186,500 per year
- Median Pay: $119,826 per year
Here is a list of 10 Highest Paying Mechanical Engineering Jobs, 10 Highest Paying Industrial Engineering Jobs and 25 Best Engineering Schools.
#2. Smart Homes and Home Automation
Smart homes and home Automation is a major that focuses on the design, implementation, and management of intelligent systems within residential properties.
This field combines elements of engineering, computer science, and business management to create innovative solutions that improve the lives of homeowners and increase the value of their properties.
With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing demand for energy-efficient and convenient living spaces, Smart Homes and Home Automation is a promising field that can lead to a lucrative career.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Tony Fadell
The former Apple executive who co-founded Nest Labs. This company specializes in smart home products, such as the Nest Learning Thermostat and the Nest Protect smoke and carbon monoxide detector. In 2014, Google acquired Nest Labs for a whopping $3.2 billion, making Fadell a millionaire many times over.
- Alex Hawkinson
The founder of SmartThings, a company that develops home automation solutions. SmartThings was acquired by Samsung in 2014 for $200 million, turning Hawkinson into a millionaire as well.
Where can you learn the skills?
While there may not be a specific major called “Smart Homes and Home Automation,” several universities offer programs that focus on similar subject matter. Some of these schools include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of California, Berkeley
What does this program teach?
A Smart Homes and Home Automation program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Energy-efficient building design
- Internet of Things (IoT) technology
- Home automation systems and devices
- User experience design
- Security and privacy in smart homes
- Wireless communication systems
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Project management and entrepreneurship
Through this program, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to create innovative smart home solutions that can improve people’s lives and potentially make them millionaires in just five years.
What’s the trend?
More and more people are becoming aware of smart homes and home automation.
As this field continues to grow, we can expect more sophisticated and seamless integration of smart devices into our daily lives.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $22,000 per year
- High Range: $126,500 per year
- Median Pay: $65,193 per year
Here is a list of
#3. Brain-Computer Interfaces
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) are systems that enable direct communication between the human brain and external devices, such as computers, prosthetics, or other electronic gadgets.
This growing field combines neuroscience, computer science, and engineering to develop innovative solutions for people with disabilities, enhance human cognitive abilities, and explore new ways of interacting with technology.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Elon Musk
One notable example of a successful entrepreneur in the BCI field is Elon Musk, who founded Neuralink in 2016. Neuralink aims to develop high-bandwidth, implantable brain-computer interfaces that could potentially treat neurological disorders and enable humans to communicate directly with machines.
Although Musk’s net worth is primarily attributed to his other ventures, Neuralink has attracted significant attention and investment, highlighting the potential of BCI technology to generate substantial wealth.
- Dr. Arto Nurmikko
A researcher-turned-entrepreneur who co-founded BrainGate, a company that develops BCIs to restore mobility and communication for people with severe paralysis.
BrainGate’s technology has enabled paralyzed patients to control computer cursors, robotic arms, and even their own limbs using only their thoughts. The company’s groundbreaking innovations have attracted significant funding and partnerships with major institutions, illustrating the potential for financial success in the BCI field.
Where can you learn the skills?
Many universities and research institutions offer bachelor’s degree, and specialized programs in BCI-related fields. Some notable examples include:
- Carnegie Mellon University: Offers a Ph.D. in Neural Computation and a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering with a focus on neural engineering.
- MIT: Provides a Ph.D. program in Media Arts and Sciences with a focus on BCI research through the MIT Media Lab’s Fluid Interfaces group.
- University of California, San Diego: Offers a Ph.D. in Cognitive Science with a specialization in Cognitive Neuroscience, which includes BCI research.
- University of Washington: Provides a Ph.D. in Neural Engineering and a Master’s in Bioengineering with a focus on neural interfaces and BCI technology.
What does this program teaches?
A typical BCI program focuses on teaching students the interdisciplinary skills required to develop and implement brain-computer interfaces. Key areas of study include:
- Neuroscience
- Signal processing
- Machine learning
- Hardware and software development
- Ethics and safety
What’s the trend?
This emerging field is going to change how we understand neuroscience and biomedicine. It’s going to get better with time.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $28,500 per year
- High Range: $189,000 per year
- Median Pay: $116,653 per year
Here is a list of Must-Read Computer Science Books, 10 Highest Paying Computer Science Jobs and 20+ Famous Computer Scientists.
#4. Fintech and Financial Innovation
Fintech and Financial Innovation focuses on the intersection of finance, technology, and innovation. Graduates of this finance degree program can expect to find themselves at the forefront of a digital revolution in finance, working on innovative solutions for banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Elizabeth Stark
The co-founder and CEO of Lightning Labs, a company that develops scalable, fast, and secure payment solutions for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Stark has become a prominent figure in the fintech space and is a strong advocate for financial innovation.
Where can you learn the skills?
Top institutions around the world offer Fintech and Financial Innovation programs, including:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- New York University (NYU)
What does this program teaches?
A Fintech and Financial Innovation program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain
- Digital Banking and Payments
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Regulation and Compliance
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
With the rapid growth of the fintech industry, a major in Fintech and Financial Innovation can open up a world of opportunities for those looking to make their mark in this exciting field. Who knows, you might just become the next fintech millionaire!
What’s the trend?
Although the data reflects the fluctuations in the number of searches, we are going to continue witnessing a steady rise in demand for Fintech experts.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $35,500 per year
- High Range: $206,000 per year
- Median Pay: $123,495 per year
Here is a list of Best Online Courses for Fintech Mastery and Best Online Courses for Entrepreneurship.
#5. Digital Healthcare and Telemedicine
Digital Healthcare and Telemedicine focuses on the use of information and communication technologies to deliver healthcare services remotely.
This innovative approach to healthcare is transforming the way medical professionals diagnose, treat, and monitor patients, making healthcare more accessible and efficient.
As the demand for remote healthcare services continues to rise, so does the potential for a lucrative career in this cutting-edge industry.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Dr. Roy Schoenberg
As the co-founder and CEO of American Well, Dr. Roy Schoenberg has played a significant role in revolutionizing the telemedicine industry.
Under his leadership, American Well has become one of the largest telehealth platforms in the U.S., connecting patients with healthcare providers through video consultations.
With a net worth of over $1 billion, Dr. Schoenberg’s success in the telemedicine industry is a testament to the potential for financial success in this field.
- Glen Tullman
The founder and executive chairman of Livongo Health, a digital health company that offers a suite of tools and services to help people manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. In 2019, Livongo went public with a valuation of over $3.4 billion, making Tullman a millionaire many times over.
Where can you learn the skills?
Several universities and institutions offer programs specifically tailored to Digital Healthcare and Telemedicine. Some of these schools include:
- Johns Hopkins University
- Tufts University School of Medicine
- University of California, Irvine
What does this program teaches?
A digital healthcare and telemedicine program typically covers a wide range of topics related to the intersection of technology and healthcare. Some common subjects include:
- Telemedicine
- Mobile Health
- Health Informatics
- Digital Health Ethics and Regulations
What’s the trend?
Digital healthcare is only going to continue growing. This new way allows medical professionals to offer care to patients remotely.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $168,000 per year
- High Range: $523,000 per year
- Median Pay: $288,976 per year
Here is a list of 10 Highest Paying Healthcare Jobs and 18 Famous Medical Scientists.
#6. Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking
Did you know that computer science degrees focussing on cybersecurity and ethical hacking could potentially make you a millionaire in just five years?
A major in cybersecurity and ethical hacking involves learning how to protect computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage.
Students will develop a deep understanding of various hacking techniques, security protocols, and risk management strategies. They will also learn how to identify vulnerabilities in systems, perform penetration testing, and implement strong security measures to prevent cyber-attacks.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
Some individuals have made a fortune in the field of cybersecurity and ethical hacking. One such example is Kevin Mitnick, who was once one of the world’s most notorious hackers.
After serving time in prison, he turned his life around and became a successful cybersecurity consultant, author, and speaker. Today, he runs his own cybersecurity firm, Mitnick Security Consulting, and is a millionaire.
Another success story is that of Charlie Miller, who gained fame for remotely hacking a Jeep Cherokee in 2015. This led to a massive recall of 1.4 million vehicles by Fiat Chrysler. Miller now works as a security researcher and has made a fortune by identifying vulnerabilities in various systems and helping companies improve their security.
Where can you learn the skills?
Many universities and colleges around the world offer majors in cybersecurity and ethical hacking. Some of the top institutions include:
- Stanford University (USA)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (USA)
- Carnegie Mellon University (USA)
- University of California, Berkeley (USA)
What does this program teaches?
A cybersecurity and ethical hacking program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Computer and Network Security
- Cryptography
- Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
- Digital Forensics
- Security Management and Compliance
- Secure Software Development
What’s the trend?
Cybersecurity careers are in high demand as the need for robust protection against digital threats continues to rise.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $41,000 per year
- High Range: $299,500 per year
- Median Pay: $110,823 per year
Here is a list of 10 Highest Paying Cyber Security Jobs and 10 Highest Paying IT Jobs.
#7. Blockchain and Cryptocurrency
Blockchain and cryptocurrency are revolutionizing the world of finance, technology, and security. The decentralized nature of blockchain technology offers a new way to store and transfer data securely and transparently, while cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are challenging traditional financial systems.
This advanced degree prepares students to understand the technical aspects of these technologies, develop innovative applications, and navigate the growing job market in this field.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Vitalik Buterin
At the age of 19, Vitalik founded Ethereum, a decentralized platform that enables developers to build and deploy smart contracts and decentralized applications. Ethereum has become the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, and Vitalik’s net worth is estimated to be over $100 million.
Where can you learn the skills?
Several universities and institutions around the world now offer majors, minors, and certificates in blockchain and cryptocurrency. Some of these include:
- New York University
- Duke University
- Stanford University
What does this program teaches?
A major in blockchain and cryptocurrency typically covers the following topics:
- Fundamentals of Blockchain
- Cryptocurrency
- Smart Contracts
- Decentralized Applications (DApps)
- Security and Privacy
- Regulation and Compliance
What’s the trend?
According to the data from Google Trends, Blockchain technology is experiencing significant growth and adoption. More people are seeking transparent and trustworthy options for their transactions.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $23,500 per year
- High Range: $199,500 per year
- Median Pay: $129,179 per year
Here is a list of 10 Highest Paying Programming Jobs and 10 Highest Paying Jobs For Statistics Majors.
#8. Virtual Reality Design
Virtual reality design major equips students with the necessary skills to design, develop, and implement virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications across various industries such as gaming, entertainment, healthcare, education, and more.
With the increasing demand for VR/AR experiences, professionals in this field have the potential to make a fortune within a short period.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Palmer Luckey
The founder of Oculus VR, is one of the most notable examples of success in the field of Virtual Reality Design. At the age of 21, Luckey sold his company to Facebook for a whopping $2 billion in 2014, making him a millionaire almost overnight.
- Nonny de la Peña
Also known as the “Godmother of VR,” is another inspiring figure in the VR industry. She founded Emblematic Group, a company that creates immersive VR experiences for journalism, education, and other fields.
Her groundbreaking work has earned her numerous awards and recognitions, solidifying her status as a pioneer in the world of virtual reality.
Where can you learn the skills?
Several prestigious institutions offer programs in virtual reality design or related fields. Some of these schools include:
- Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
- New York University (NYU)
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Southern California (USC)
What does this program teaches?
A virtual reality design program typically covers a wide range of topics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field. Some of these subjects include:
- 3D Modeling and Animation
- VR/AR Design Principles
- Programming
- Game Design
- Hardware and Software
What’s the trend?
Even though this graph shows fluctuations, virtual reality is about to be the big thing.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $20,500 per year
- High Range: $180,000 per year
- Median Pay: $76,644 per year
Here is a list of 25 Best Information Technology Schools and 10 Highest Paying Jobs For Biotechnology Majors.
#9. Social Robotics
Social robotics is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the design, development, and implementation of robots that can interact and communicate with humans or other robots in a socially acceptable manner.
These robots are designed to understand, model, and replicate human behavior, emotions, and social cues. They have applications in various sectors, including healthcare, education, entertainment, and customer service.
Creating human-like robots is not only their role but also their purpose. These engineers strives to give robots the power to interact with human beings. They get a higher pay than a typical industrial engineer salary.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Cynthia Breazeal
A pioneer in the field of Social Robotics and the founder of Jibo, Inc. She developed Jibo, the world’s first social robot for the home, which raised over $3.7 million in crowdfunding.
Jibo’s success paved the way for other social robots, such as Pepper and NAO. Dr. Breazeal’s work has not only made her a millionaire but also earned her recognition as a leading innovator in technology.
- Rodolphe Gelin
As the chief scientific officer of SoftBank Robotics, Rodolphe Gelin has been instrumental in the development of Pepper, a humanoid robot designed to interact with humans.
Pepper has become a commercial success, with over 12,000 units sold worldwide. Gelin’s contributions to the field of social robotics have helped him amass significant wealth and influence in the tech industry.
Where can you learn the skills?
While social robotics is a relatively new field, several universities and institutions around the world offer programs and courses related to this major. Some of these include robotics engineering degree program at:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Carnegie Mellon University
What does this program teach?
Here are some of the topics this program covers:
- Human-Robot Interaction (HRI)
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
- Robotics and Automation
- Social and Emotional Computing
- Ethics and Policy
Social Robotics is an exciting and promising field with the potential to make you a millionaire within just a few years. By pursuing a major in this area, you can be at the forefront of technological breakthroughs and contribute to shaping the future of human-robot interactions.
What’s the trend?
As you can see, more and more people want to read about social robotics. This field is only going to continue growing.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $67,000 per year
- High Range: $156,000 per year
- Median Pay: $101,452 per year
Here is a list of 10 Highest Paying Sociology Jobs and Majors that Robots Can’t Replace.
#10. 3D Printing
Also known as additive manufacturing, involves learning the various techniques and technologies used to create three-dimensional objects from digital models.
Students will gain hands-on experience with 3D printers, learning how to design, prototype, and produce a wide range of products, from simple household items to complex industrial components.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
There are numerous examples of people who have made a fortune in the 3D printing industry. One such individual is Bre Pettis, co-founder of MakerBot, a leading company in desktop 3D printing. Pettis started MakerBot in 2009, and by 2013, the company was acquired by Stratasys.
Another example is Max Lobovsky, who co-founded Formlabs, a company that specializes in high-resolution 3D printing. Formlabs has raised over $100 million in funding and is now valued at over $1 billion.
Where can you learn the skills?
While 3D printing is still a relatively new field, several universities and institutions are beginning to offer dedicated programs and majors in this area. Some of the schools offering 3D printing majors or related programs include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
- Rochester Institute of Technology
- Penn State University
What does this program teaches?
A 3D printing major cover the following topics:
- Design and Modeling
- Materials Science
- Additive Manufacturing Technologies
- Prototyping and Production
- Quality Control and Testing
What’s the trend?
This graph indicates the gradual growth of the 3D printing career. The 3D printing industry is revolutionizing manufacturing processes.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $31,000 per year
- High Range: $80,000 per year
- Median Pay: $49,547 per year
Here is a list of 25 Best Journalism Schools and Must-Read Computer Science Books.
#11. Social Media Marketing
Social media marketing is the art and science of leveraging various social media platforms to promote products, services, or brands. It involves creating engaging content, building relationships with your audience, and analyzing your performance to optimize your strategy.
With the ever-increasing popularity of social media, the demand for these succesful sales managers in this field has skyrocketed. This major requires solid communication skills.
What are the interesting anecdotes about people who made a fortune in this field?
- Gary Vaynerchuk
Gary started his career by working at his family’s wine business and grew it from a $3 million to a $60 million business in just five years using social media marketing. Today, he’s the CEO of VaynerMedia, a full-service digital agency, and a renowned public speaker.
- Huda Kattan
Huda, a beauty blogger, and makeup artist turned entrepreneur, built her billion-dollar beauty empire, Huda Beauty, by leveraging social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Her engaging content and innovative products have made her one of the most influential people in the beauty industry.
Where can you learn the skills?
Several reputable institutions offer social media marketing degree as a major or concentration within their marketing, business administration, or communication degree programs. Some of these schools include:
- New York University (NYU)
- Northwestern University
- University of Florida
What does this program teaches?
A social media marketing college degree program typically covers the following topics:
- Content Creation
- Social Media Strategy
- Analytics and Measurement
- Influencer Marketing
- Paid Social Advertising
What’s the trend?
Credits: Google Trends
Although the trend shows a fluctuation, social media marketing careers are increasingly becoming popular. Businesses recognize the value of engaging with customers and their online presence through various social platforms.
How much can you earn from this career?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $35,000 per year
- High Range: $81,000 per year
- Median Pay: $53,210 per year
Here is a list of 10 Highest Paying Digital Marketing Jobs and 10 Highest Paying Marketing And Advertising Jobs.
Conclusion
The path to becoming a millionaire in just 5 years is not limited to traditional high-paying professions such as human resources careers, chemical engineering, medicine, or even a human resources job.
By exploring these college degrees and embracing your unique passions, you can unlock a world of lucrative opportunities and achieve financial success faster than you thought possible.
Remember, the key to wealth lies in your ability to think outside the box and seize these hidden opportunities. So, take the leap, pursue your dreams, and watch your bank account soar!
