No. 21. Optometrist
Average annual salary: $101,410
What they do: Examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system. They also diagnose and treat visual problems and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
No. 20. Mathematician
Average annual salary: $103,720
What they do: Conduct research to develop and understand mathematical principles. They also analyze data and apply mathematical techniques to help solve real-world problems.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
No. 19. Engineering teacher, postsecondary
Average annual salary: $104,220
What they do: Teach courses related to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services at the college or university level. This includes those who only teach and those who split their time between teaching and research.
Projected growth through 2024: 9% to 13%
No. 18. Investment fund manager
Average annual salary: $104,850*
What they do: Plan, direct, and coordinate the investment strategies and operations for a large pool of liquid assets supplied by institutions or individual investors.
Projected growth through 2024: 2% to 4%
*This is the average annual salary for "Managers, All Other," according to the BLS.
No. 17. Political scientist
Average annual salary: $104,920
What they do: Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. They research political ideas and analyze governments, policies, political trends, and related issues.
Projected growth through 2024: -2%
No. 16. Geoscientist, except hydrologists and geographers
Average annual salary: $105,720
What they do: Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. They may also study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. This title includes occupations such as mineralogists and paleontologists.
Projected growth through 2024: 9% to 13%
No. 15. Economics teacher, postsecondary
Average annual salary: $106,980
What they do: Lead economics courses at the college or university level. This includes those who only teach and those who split their time between teaching and research.
Projected growth through 2024: 9% to 13%
No. 14. Computer systems engineers
Average annual salary: $108,430*
What they do: Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. They may also assist with managing and integrating systems.
Projected growth through 2024: 2% to 4%
*This is the average annual salary for "Computer Hardware Engineers," according to the BLS.
No. 13. Astronomer
Average annual salary: $110,220
What they do: Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena. Their work helps improve our basic knowledge of the universe and can be applied to solve practical problems.
Projected growth through 2024: 2% to 4%
No. 12. Pediatrician, general
Average annual salary: $183,180
What they do: Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent injuries and diseases in children.
Projected growth through 2024: 9% to 13%
No. 9. Dermatologist
Average annual salary: $187,200*
What they do: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, and dandruff, by conducting examinations and analyzing skin abnormalities.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
*This is the average annual salary for "Physicians and Surgeons," according to the BLS.
No. 9. Ophthalmologist
Average annual salary: $187,200*
What they do: Conduct eye exams and vision correction, like optometrists, but are also trained to perform eye surgery, including cataracts and glaucoma.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
*This is the average annual salary for "Physicians and Surgeons," according to the BLS.
No. 9. Neurologist
Average annual salary: $187,200*
What they do: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and disorders of the nervous system.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
*This is the average annual salary for "Physicians and Surgeons," according to the BLS.
No. 8. Family and general practitioner
Average annual salary: $192,120
What they do: Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent common diseases and injuries through regular tests and check-ups. They may refer patients to specialists for further care.
Projected growth through 2024: 9% to 13%
No. 7. Psychiatrist
Average annual salary: $193,680
What they do: Physicians who diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders. They can collaborate with physicians, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, or other professionals to discuss treatment plans and progress.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
No. 6. Internist, general
Average annual salary: $196,520
What they do: Physicians who diagnose and provide non-surgical treatment of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems.
Projected growth through 2024: 9% to 13%
No. 5. Hospitalist
Average annual salary: $197,700*
What they do: Provide inpatient care predominantly in settings such as medical wards, acute care units, intensive care units, rehabilitation centers, or emergency rooms.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
*This is the average annual salary for "Physicians and Surgeons, All Other," according to the BLS.
No. 4. Orthodontist
Average annual salary: $221,390
What they do: Design and administer appliances that realign teeth and jaws. These appliances help produce and maintain normal function of the teeth and jaw, as well as improve appearance.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%
No. 3. Obstetrician and gynecologist
Average annual salary: $222,400
What they do: Provide medical care to women during pregnancy and childbirth. They may also provide general medical care to women.
Projected growth through 2024: 14%