* Specific field of study: A degree in petroleum engineering will generally command a much higher salary than a degree in art history, even if both are at the same level (e.g., Bachelor's). Even within a field, specializations matter (e.g., software engineering vs. general computer science).
* Years of experience: Entry-level salaries are significantly lower than those for someone with 10+ years of experience in the same field.
* Location: Salaries vary dramatically based on geographic location (cost of living plays a large role). A software engineer in San Francisco will earn far more than one in rural Iowa.
* Company size and type: Large multinational corporations often pay more than smaller startups or non-profit organizations.
* Individual skills and performance: A high-performing individual will generally earn more than a less-performing one, even with the same degree and experience.
* Negotiation skills: Salary is often negotiable, and skilled negotiators can secure higher pay.
To find salary information, you need to specify:
1. The degree: (e.g., Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Master's in Data Science, PhD in Biology)
2. The location: (e.g., New York City, Austin, Texas)
3. Years of experience: (e.g., entry-level, 5 years experience)
Once you have these specifics, you can use resources like:
* Salary.com: Provides salary data based on various factors.
* Glassdoor: Offers salary information reported by employees.
* Payscale: Similar to Glassdoor, with salary data and other compensation information.
* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): A US government agency providing occupational employment statistics, including average salaries. This is a good resource for broad overview but may not be as precise as the other options.
* LinkedIn: You can search for jobs in your area of interest and see salary ranges listed in job postings.
In short, while a degree *influences* salary potential, it's not the sole determinant. Use the resources above and be specific in your search to get a more accurate estimate.