8. United States Air Force Academy

By the time Air Force cadets finish a minimum of five years in active duty following graduation, employers know they have real-world experience and management skills at the very least.

These grads have also completed a thorough academic curriculum. But it doesn't stop there: The academy also offers workshops aimed at character development and leadership and requires each cadet to participate in either an intercollegiate or intramural sport and stay physically fit. Salary of these graduates start from $ $66,700 making mid-year salary as $118,400.

9. Harvard University

Harvard is the only Ivy League school to make the top 15 on Payscale's list and, like any other Ivy; it comes with a prestigious alumni network. Among them: 47 Nobel Laureates including Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush and 30 other heads of state.

It has a strong and revered academic track record and a loyal alumni base, because of which the grads here often have few problems pursuing the career they want and getting paid handsomely for it. Their salary starts from $57,700 making mid-year salary as $118,200.

10. Carleton College

This small Minnesota school is known for its tight knit student body and strong academic programs.  A high percentage of grads quickly find jobs in high-paying fields like business, finance and healthcare jobs regardless of their major.

Carleton grads are located across the country and many offer mini-internship opportunities just for Carleton students during winter break.Their salary starts from $ $43,700 making mid-year salary as $117,700.