Are you looking for a high-paying job but don’t want to invest in a four-year degree? You don’t need a college degree to land a good job. There’s a new type of job that emphasizes skills instead of education and work experience.
What are the jobs that don’t require a college degree for high pay?
Known as “new collar jobs” or “middle-skill jobs,” these require specific hard skills but don’t necessarily require a four-year college degree (or extensive work history). Often, workers can gain the skills they need for the job through vocational training, certification programs, a course, or a two-year degree program.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers create, write, and test the code that allows computer programs and applications to function. They typically need to know a variety of programming languages, including Java and C++. They may work for computer system design companies, software publishers, or financial companies, among others. Because this work is done on computers, many programmers work remotely, providing flexibility.
Computer Security Analyst
A computer security analyst (also known as an information security analyst) helps protect the networks and computer systems of organizations. Some employers prefer analysts to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and sometimes they even prefer candidates with a master’s degree in information systems. However, some companies focus on skills in computer science, programming, and IT security rather than a specific academic degree.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists provide assistance to individuals and businesses regarding their computer hardware and/or software. They may help IT staff within an organization or assist non-technical users in resolving their computer issues. They help people in person, over the phone, or online.
Database Administrator
A database administrator (also known as a database admin) is someone who stores and organizes data using specialized software. They ensure that data is secure and accessible to those who need it. Database administrators can work in almost any industry, but they typically work for computer system design and support companies.
Ultrasound Diagnostic Technician
An ultrasound diagnostic technician (also known as a diagnostic radiologic technician) works under a physician to produce ultrasound images for patients. Diagnostic radiologic technicians work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, medical centers, and laboratories.
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Network and computer systems administrators install and manage computer systems for businesses. Since almost every industry has networks and computer systems, these admins work in every field, from IT to finance to education.
Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician assists pharmacists in dispensing medication to customers and/or healthcare professionals. Most of them work in pharmacies and drug stores, but some work in hospitals or private practices.
Medical Imaging Technician
Also known as radiologic technologists, medical imaging technicians perform x-rays and other diagnostic imaging on patients. They work under the supervision of physicians, take the required images as instructed by the doctors, and assist physicians in evaluating the images. They work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, laboratories, and outpatient care centers.
Service Delivery Analyst
A service delivery analyst ensures that customers receive high-quality service. They analyze how services are delivered and how to improve them. They typically use software to track the quality and efficiency of the user experience. While the job requirements for a service delivery analyst vary by industry, the analyst typically needs strong IT skills.
Maker
Tools and Templates
Tool and template makers are a type of craftsmen who prepare and operate various mechanical tools and computer-controlled machines used to produce the tools necessary for the manufacturing process.
More New Collar Jobs
Below is a list of jobs that do not require a four-year degree, including those mentioned above. The list is organized by industry. Check the list and see which job suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs pay more money without needing a bachelor’s degree?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are many jobs that pay an average annual salary of $80,000 or more and do not require a bachelor’s degree. Air traffic controllers, nuclear technicians, and radiation therapy specialists can start their careers with a diploma. Captains, commercial pilots, electronics technicians, makeup artists, and marine engineers can start by obtaining non-bachelor degrees.
Can I earn a six-figure salary without a degree?
With the right training and experience, you can earn a six-figure salary without a bachelor’s degree. However, you should be prepared to invest time and energy in vocational training, earning a diploma, obtaining a certification, or comprehensive on-the-job training. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many jobs offer salaries reaching six figures for experienced and trained workers. These jobs include air traffic controller, commercial pilot, makeup artist, nuclear technician, and radiation therapy specialist.
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Sources:
The Balance uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts in our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we verify facts and maintain accuracy, reliability, and quality in our content.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Fast-Growing Occupations That Pay Well and Don’t Require a College Degree.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Computer Programmer.”
The Wall Street Journal. “Information Security Jobs Available. No Experience Required.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Computer Support Specialist.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Medical Sonographers and Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians and Dental and Diagnostic Medical Imaging Technologists and Medical Records and Health Information Technicians and Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Occupational Therapy Assistants and Pharmacy Technicians and Alternative Medicine Medical Assistants and Medical Imaging Technologists and Respiratory Therapists and Surgical Technologists.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Computer Network and Systems Administrator.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Pharmacy Technician.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Radiologic Technologist or MRI Technologist.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Service Delivery Analyst.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “How to Become a Tool and Die Maker.”
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/high-paying-jobs-that-don-not-require-a-degree-4147576
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