A college degree isn’t the only path to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career. With the rising cost of tuition and changing workforce needs, more people are exploring alternative routes that offer great pay, job security, and opportunities for advancement, without spending four years in college.
Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or career changer, we will walk you through promising career options that don’t require a bachelor’s degree.
Why Consider Careers That Don’t Require a College Degree?
The cost of college has increased significantly over the past few decades. Student loan debt can be a major burden, and not all degrees guarantee a high-paying job. Many industries now prioritize skills and hands-on experience over formal education. With the growth of apprenticeships, certifications, and on-the-job training, it’s more than possible to build a strong career without a 4-year degree.
Benefits of Non-Degree Careers
- Faster Entry into the Workforce: Many of these careers require short-term training, allowing you to start earning sooner.
- Lower Education Costs: Certifications, trade schools, and bootcamps are typically much cheaper than a 4-year college.
- In-Demand Skills: Many non-degree jobs are in high-demand industries like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
- Opportunities for Growth: With experience and additional training, many roles offer upward mobility.
10 Great Careers That Don’t Require a 4-Year Degree
1. Medical Assistant
- What They Do: A medical assistant (MA) performs both clinical and administrative tasks in a healthcare setting, assisting physicians and nurses with patient care and office management. They may take patient histories, measure vital signs, draw blood, administer medications, schedule appointments, and handle billing and insurance paperwork.
- Training Required: Certification or associate degree (1-2 years).
- Median Salary: ~$38,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for medical assistants is positive, with projected growth significantly faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of medical assistants is expected to grow by 15% from 2023 to 2033, resulting in an average of 119,800 new job openings each year. This growth is driven by factors like the aging baby boomer population and increased demand for healthcare services. (BLS)
Learn about more healthcare careers here.
2. Electrician
- What They Do: Electricians are highly trained professionals who keep homes, businesses, and industrial facilities powered and safe. They handle everything from installing new wiring and lighting to maintaining and repairing existing electrical systems. When issues arise, electricians troubleshoot problems, upgrade outdated setups, and make sure all work meets current building codes and safety standards. Their expertise is essential for keeping modern life running smoothly and safely.
- Training Required: Apprenticeship (typically 4-5 years, paid while you train)
- Training, Certifications, and Industry Resources: National Electrical Contractors Association
- Median Salary: ~$60,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for electricians is very positive. Employment is projected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This means there will be a high demand for electricians in the coming years.
Learn more about the ins and outs of becoming an Electrician here.
3. Dental Hygienist
- What They Do: Dental hygienists play a key role in helping people maintain healthy teeth and gums. As essential members of the dental care team, they’re often the first professionals patients see during routine visits. Their work includes cleaning teeth, checking for early signs of oral health problems, and educating patients on how to care for their teeth at home. By focusing on prevention and early detection, dental hygienists help reduce the risk of serious dental issues and support overall health.
- Training Required: Associate degree (2-3 years)
- Median Salary: ~$81,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for dental hygienists is generally positive, with projected growth exceeding the average for all occupations. Specifically, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% growth in employment for dental hygienists between 2023 and 2033. This translates to roughly 16,400 new job openings each year, on average.
Learn more about what it’s like to be a Dental Hygienist here.
4. Computer Support Specialist
- What They Do: A computer support specialist provides technical assistance to computer users, troubleshooting hardware, software, and network problems. They answer questions, resolve issues, and ensure the smooth functioning of computer systems and networks. They might also train users on new software or hardware.
- Training Required: Some college, certifications like CompTIA A+, Google IT Support.
- Median Salary: ~$59,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a positive growth outlook for Computer Support Specialists, with a projected increase of 6% between 2023 and 2033. This growth rate is slightly faster than the average for all occupations. About 62,700 openings are expected each year, on average, during this period.
5. Paralegal or Legal Assistant
- What They Do: Paralegals and legal assistants provide essential support to attorneys by handling a variety of tasks related to legal matters. Paralegals often focus on more substantive legal work like legal research and drafting documents, while legal assistants typically handle administrative and clerical duties.
- Training Required: Associate degree or paralegal certification.
- Median Salary: ~$59,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow moderately, with an expected 1 percent increase from 2023 to 2033. While this growth is slower than the average for all occupations, it still means about 37,300 openings each year. Many of these openings will be due to workers transferring to different jobs or retiring.
6. HVAC Technician
- What They Do: HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Technicians are experts in keeping indoor environments comfortable and safe. They install, maintain, and repair systems that regulate temperature and air quality in homes, businesses, and industrial buildings. From air conditioners and furnaces to refrigeration units and ductwork, HVAC technicians work with a wide range of equipment. Their work not only ensures reliable heating and cooling but also supports energy efficiency and healthy indoor air.
- Training Required: Trade school or apprenticeship.
- Median Salary: ~$51,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for HVAC technicians is positive, with employment projected to grow 9% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increasing demand for climate control in both residential and commercial buildings, as well as the need to maintain and upgrade existing systems.
Learn more about what it’s like to be a HVAC Technician here.
7. Web Developer
- What They Do: A web developer creates and maintains websites and web applications, ensuring they are functional, user-friendly, and perform well. They can work as front-end developers (focusing on the user interface), back-end developers (handling the server-side logic), or full-stack developers (responsible for both). Web developers use various programming languages and tools to build and manage websites, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React or Angular.
- Training Required: Bootcamps, self-taught portfolios, or associate degrees.
- Median Salary: ~$78,000/year
- Growth Outlook: he outlook for web developers is generally positive, with strong job growth projected. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment for web developers and digital designers will grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
8. Radiologic Technologist
- What They Do: Radiologic technologists, also known as X-ray technicians or radiographers, use imaging equipment like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to create images of the body for medical diagnosis and treatment. They operate the equipment, position patients, and ensure the quality of the images, which are then interpreted by doctors. They may also specialize in areas like mammography, sonography, or cardiovascular-interventional radiography.
- Training Required: Associate degree and licensure.
- Median Salary: ~$65,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for radiologic technologists is positive, with employment projected to grow 6% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 16,000 openings annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The demand is driven by factors like an aging population, increased healthcare needs, and the increasing use of diagnostic imaging procedures.
9. Real Estate Agent
- What They Do: A Real Estate Agent (Realtor) is a licensed real estate professional who helps clients buy, sell, or rent residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which sets ethical standards and ensures professionalism in the real estate industry. Realtors guide clients through every step of a real estate transaction, from initial consultation and market analysis to negotiations, contracts, and closing. They are experts in property values, market trends, and legal requirements, making them vital partners in any real estate deal.
- Training Required: State-approved courses and licensure.
- Median Salary: ~$50,000/year (varies widely by location and performance)
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for real estate agents is projected to grow at a slower-than-average pace, with a 2% increase between 2023 and 2033. Despite this slower growth, there will still be about 46,000 openings annually, primarily due to agents leaving the profession or retiring.
See what it’s like to be a Real Estate Agent here.
10. Commercial Truck Driver
- What They Do: A commercial truck driver transports goods and materials from one location to another using large vehicles like tractor-trailers. They drive long distances, follow traffic laws, and ensure cargo is secure. They also maintain their vehicles, keep logs of working hours, and report any issues.
- Training Required: CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) training program (a few weeks to a few months).
- Median Salary: ~$48,000/year
- Growth Outlook: The job outlook for commercial truck drivers is positive, with employment projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033. This growth is expected to be driven by factors like increased e-commerce, rising freight volumes, and the aging trucking workforce. The industry is also facing a shortage of qualified drivers, which is likely to create more opportunities.
How to Choose the Right Career Without a Degree
Choosing a career path can feel overwhelming, especially without a traditional roadmap. Here are a few steps to help you figure it out:
1. Know Your Strengths
Are you a hands-on learner? Do you enjoy helping people, solving problems, or working independently? Understanding your interests can guide your next move.
2. Do Your Research
Look up job outlook, average salaries, day-to-day responsibilities, and growth potential. Tools like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook and Orchard can help.
3. Get Experience
Internships, job shadowing, or volunteering can help you test out a career before committing to training.
4. Explore Short-Term Programs
Community colleges, online bootcamps (like Aspireship), apprenticeships, and certifications can all help you build skills quickly.
Interactive quizzes, skills assessments, and career exploration platforms like Orchard can help you find careers that match your strengths and interests.
Final Thoughts
A college degree can open doors, but it’s not the only key to a successful future. The world of work is changing fast, and there’s never been a better time to take your own path.
If you’re feeling unsure about what direction to take, Orchard is here to help you figure it out. Our platform helps you explore careers that match your interests, learn new skills, and take action on your future.
Ready to explore?
Start discovering your future career with a free trial of Orchard today.
