Biomedical engineers work in the burgeoning medical field designing things such as artificial limbs and organs, medical equipment software and diagnostic machines. In 2010, the median income for biomedical engineers was $81,540, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and you can get into the field with just a bachelor’s degree. In addition to working in research facilities, you can find work in hospitals, manufacturing, government regulatory agencies and universities. The job outlook for the field is one of the highest of all professions, expected to grow at about 62 percent at least through 2020.
In 2009, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that software engineers working on systems development earned a median income of $93,470. Everyone from the military to medical facilities, corporations, manufacturing and academia utilize the services of software engineers to research and design computer programs. Software engineers are responsible for assessing the software needs in a company, creating software and testing it. The highest number of software engineers work directly for computer system design companies. Experience and a bachelor’s degree can lead to a job in virtually any industry.
In an effort to develop ways to improve the environment, environmental engineers work to improve recycling processes, public health, waste reduction and controls for water and air pollution. They often work with regional and urban planners to study land sites for development. A bachelor’s degree can land you a job that in 2010 paid a median income of $78,740, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Civil engineers design and then oversee large construction projects that could include roads, buildings, tunnels, airports, water treatment plants, dams and bridges. Civil engineers primarily work for architectural and engineering firms, with the rest working for government agencies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2010, civil engineers earned a median income of $77,560. You will need a license if you practice solo and sell your own services, otherwise a bachelor's degree can get you entry into a larger firm.