"On average". That includes a bunch of degrees that, while perfectly fine, aren't going to generate a lot of money for most people. An english degree, in the

"On average". That includes a bunch of degrees that, while perfectly fine, aren't going to generate a lot of money for most people. An english degree, in the hands of the right person, could make boatloads. For most people, it won't. The ROI for $200K+ english degree is awful. On the other hand, a CS degree, robotics, genetics, biology (medical), any of those, again, in the hands of the right person, will far outpace the S&P, it has for me. But I can't say it enough, the person needs to be a) motivated b) reasonably intelligent c) lucky If that sort of person gets a degree and a masters or a PhD, I think the ROI can be better.