There are plenty of high paying job opportunities for you even without a college degree, if you would rather not spend your years in college. This equally includes positions open only to those with post-secondary education and training, as well as careers that require a high school diploma.
In this article, we will be discussing 12 well paying jobs you can get without having to obtain a college degree. It is important to remember that while some of these jobs require no college degree but they do require some experience and communication skills.
What similarities do Rachael Ray, Henry Ford, and Walt Disney have?
They’re successful people who never earned a bachelor's degree but yet have a successful career. History is littered with shakers and movers who have gone their own way, moving away from traditional educations. Despite what your inner critic, our culture, or your parents may tell you, there are plenty of rewarding and high-paying jobs that do not need you to have a college degree.
Also read: 09 tips on how to become a trained professional
Main points
- Jobs that don’t necessarily require college degree but that requires certain skills, are “new collar jobs”.
- You may need to invest in certification or an associate's degree, depending on the role.
- Most new collar jobs offer better career prospects and higher salaries than others.
Hear me now: You don't need a degree, but you do need an education! A college degree, some require vocational school, and internships or some require specific certifications are required for some of the jobs we are going to be discussing in this article.
Without necessarily spending a year in college, you can still earn money and enjoy a good career.
- Between 2017 and 2019 most employers reduced degree requirements for mid-level jobs by 46%.
- More than $35,000 is paid per year for college by an average student.
- Location and several other factors affect earning potential.
- Post-secondary training or education may be required in some cases.
It is very possible to find high-paying jobs without a degree, even though a college degree can help you get ready for a great career. More focuse is being placed on candidate's skills as most businesses are competing for a more practical work-force, thus eliminating the degree requirement.
12 high paying jobs that do not require a college degree
1. Computer programmer
Creating, writing and testing of codes that allows proper functioning of applications is allowed by a computer programmer. A variety of computer languages, including Java and C++ are typically needed to be proficient. As a computer programmer, you can work for a financial company, for a software publisher, or a computer systems design company or, among many others. Many programmers work from home, because this work is done on computers, which allows for flexibility.
2. Air Traffic Controllers
Maintenance of a safe distance of an aircraft from potential hazards and other aircraft is ensured by an Air traffic controller. These people work near large airports in airport control towers. To assist pilots on their journey to specific locations, some others may work from secure offices across a country. Most work for the federal agency called the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
3. Solar PV installers
These people maintain and install solar systems that convert energy from sunlight. The job involves you traveling to various businesses and even homes. This might be for you if you like to be active outdoors! We will see increased demand for this job as it becomes an increasingly popular power source.
4. Choreographer
Most dancers are future choreographers. Coordination of dancers, composition of a dance, and selecting the appropriate music for a dance routine is the job of a choreographer. To show the dancers what to do, choreographers perform dance moves in rehearsal.
5. Cyber Security Analyst
The information security analyst (equally referred to as a cyber security analyst) helps protect an organization's computer systems and networks. A bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is required by some employers, and candidates with a master's degree in business information technology are equally a choice by other employers.
6. Commercial Pilot
Operating airplanes and transporting cargo or people from one place to another is the job of a commercial pilot. They check aircraft fuel systems and mechanics prior to take off, create and file most flight plans. During the flight, they communicate with air traffic control while monitoring systems. As a commercial pilot, you have to respond to weather changes and emergencies and also direct the plane to its chosen destination.
7. Mason
Those who use bricks, concrete, and stone to repair and build various structures are called masons. But friends I must say this is not a piece of cake,! It is a physically demanding job and it involves a lot of kneeling, standing and heavy lifting.
8. Taxi Driver
Taking people from one place to another in a cab is the job of a taxi driver. Many taxi drivers have a high school diploma or equivalent even though a high school diploma is not required for this job. Depending on the taxi company, on the job training usually lasts between a week and two. A taxi license is required by most states to qualify to drive a taxi. Drivers require a background check and are typically required to have a clean driving record.
9. Database Administrator
A person who organizes and stores data using specialized software is called a database administrator (equally referred to as a database manager). Ensuring that your data is safe and available to the people who need to access it is the job of a database manager.
10. Site Manager
The site manager oversees the work schedule for final inspection, including the construction project and estimate. To ensure that the project meets construction requirements, they work closely with engineers and architects. Also, they may supervise subcontractors doing masonry, plumbing work, electrical, or construction. The construction manager ensures that the company obtains the necessary permits and carries out all necessary construction inspections.
11. Licensed Practical Nurses
The licensed practical nurses work with registered nurses and physicians to assist in providing patient care. These nurses do paperwork, administer medication, and vital signs. Unlike LPNs, RNs do not need to have a college degree. You can enroll in an accredited program at a vocational school to obtain the training you need.
12. Service Delivery Analyst
Ensuring that clients receive quality service is the job of a service delivery analyst. They analyze how services can be improved and how they are provided. Typically, service delivery analysts use software to monitor the efficiency and quality of the user experience. Analysts generally require strong computer skills, even as the job requirements for service delivery analysts vary with the industry.
