The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is a leading institution, producing graduates who excel across various industries. Understanding the salary landscape for UIC alumni in 2025 involves examining average salaries, key factors influencing earnings, job market trends, and the impact of certifications and education.
Average Salary Range for UIC Graduates
Salaries for UIC graduates vary based on field of study and degree level. Below is an overview of median first-year earnings:
Bachelor’s Degree
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering: $67,200
- Computer Science: $64,600
- Registered Nursing: $63,700
- Mechanical Engineering: $62,100
- Computer Engineering: $61,200
- Chemical Engineering: $59,300
- Civil Engineering: $59,600
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering: $51,900
- Information Science/Studies: $49,600
- Accounting: $48,800
- Finance: $47,300
- Marketing: $38,800
- Economics: $39,300
- Psychology: $28,800
- Biology: $27,400
- History: $27,100
- Fine and Studio Arts: $22,000
Master’s Degree
- Registered Nursing: $90,400
- Health and Medical Administrative Services: $90,100
- Business Administration: $73,700
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research: $61,300
- Accounting: $60,800
- Special Education and Teaching: $60,200
- Public Health: $53,900
- Architecture: $49,600
- Public Administration: $46,600
- Social Work: $40,600
Doctoral and Professional Degrees
- Registered Nursing: $103,900
- Pharmacy: $100,900
- Dentistry: $99,800
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions: $68,100
- Medicine: $55,800
These figures represent median first-year earnings, which can vary based on location, industry, and experience.
Factors Influencing Earnings
Several factors affect UIC graduates’ earnings:
- Field of Study – STEM fields, especially engineering and computer science, typically offer higher salaries than humanities and arts disciplines.
- Degree Level – Advanced degrees often lead to better salaries, with doctoral degrees in healthcare fields offering significant earning potential.
- Industry and Sector – Careers in technology, finance, and healthcare generally provide higher salaries than public sector or nonprofit roles.
- Geographical Location – Salaries vary depending on the cost of living and demand for specific skills in different regions.
Salary by Experience
Experience plays a crucial role in salary progression:
- Six years after enrolling, UIC alumni earn an average of $44,500 per year.
- After ten years, this figure rises to approximately $61,900 per year.
Gaining hands-on experience, networking, and pursuing advanced certifications can accelerate salary growth.
Job Market Trends in 2025
The job market for UIC graduates is shaped by evolving industry needs and technological advancements:
- Digital Transformation – Demand for professionals in digital marketing, data analysis, and AI is increasing.
- Healthcare Expansion – With rising healthcare needs, careers in nursing, pharmacy, and medical administration continue to grow.
- Data-Driven Decision Making – Companies seek professionals skilled in data analysis, measurement, and evaluation.
Benefits and Job Outlook
UIC graduates often receive attractive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. The job outlook remains positive, especially in high-growth fields like healthcare, technology, and business analytics.
For example, data scientists earn an average of $103,500 per year, with projected job growth of 35% from 2022 to 2032. Similarly, nurses and healthcare professionals continue to see strong demand.
Certifications and Education Impacting Salary
Certifications and further education can significantly enhance earning potential:
- Advanced Degrees – Pursuing a master’s or doctorate can lead to higher salaries and specialized roles.
- Certifications – Credentials in project management, data analytics, and software development boost career prospects.
- Continuous Learning – Staying updated with industry trends through online courses and workshops ensures long-term career growth.
Conclusion
UIC graduates in 2025 are well-positioned for success, with competitive salaries and strong job prospects in various industries. By leveraging experience, certifications, and further education, professionals can maximize their earning potential and career growth.
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