A college degree is not a sign that one is a finished product but an indication a person is prepared for life – Edward Malloy
Having a college education is often considered essential for starting a meaningful career. Yet, contrary to popular belief, not having a degree doesn’t mean your career prospects are limited. According to recent labor statistics, there are various options available in the job market that don’t require a traditional college education.
These include not only roles in the tech industry but also jobs like power plant operators, occupational therapy assistants, electrical power line installers, and nuclear power reactor operators.
In this blog, we shall look at 7 best jobs without a college degree. We will be looking at the roles and responsibilities of these jobs.
In fact, some of these positions are counted among the degree highest paying jobs within the tech industry, offering appreciable job growth.
DevOps Engineer
Having derived from the prime idea of bringing together the two departments of Development and Operations; DevOps focuses on Collaboration. On the development side, DevOps Engineers play a crucial role in trying to make the software development process less complex, less burdensome and less lengthy. On the operations side, they help in developing functional systems, in upgrading and executing software solutions.
These efforts help in streamlining operations, in improving security and system performance as well as enhancing user experience. The national annual median salary of a DevOps engineer is $110,000 (approximately).
Qualification Requirement
To be a DevOps Engineer, there are several qualification requirements that must be met. Firstly, it is important to have a high school diploma or equivalent. This is essential in order to demonstrate the basic level of knowledge and understanding needed for the role.
In addition, experience in programming languages is beneficial, as well as experience with Linux systems administration and software development.
Simultaneously, on the job training ensures that one happens to acquire expertise in implementing DevOps processes and technologies, along with developing understanding of DevOps-oriented process optimization systems.
Generally, DevOps engineers begin with bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering; however, this is not mandatory and this is in fact one of the best high paying jobs without formal college education which can be aimed for by virtue of possessing software development and overseeing operations skill.
Computer Programmer
The earlier requirement of learning programming languages through conventional college courses is no longer the sole option. Online resources and bootcamps can help you acquire programming skills.
These individuals are responsible for writing codes which facilitate the functioning of computer programs. They also do test software scripts and codes.
Additionally, they also develop computer infrastructure, maintain OS and debug code. Given the nature of their work, a number of computer programmers work independently as freelancers.
The national average salary of a Computer Programmer is $70,000 (approximately).
Qualification Requirement
To be eligible for a job in this field, you must possess a school diploma or equivalent qualification. A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for any computer programmer position.
High school graduates should be proficient in math and basic computer science courses such as programming languages like Java, C++ and HTML.
Web Developer
This is one of the highest paying jobs without the requirement of a four year college degree. The prime responsibility of a web developer is to develop and maintain websites. Additionally, they may also design and test the layout and functionalities.
There are front-end developers who work on the visual side of the website, creating the overall look and working on the technical features.
There are back-end developers who work on the server side of the website, aiding in constructing the website itself. This involves application integration, maintenance of database and troubleshooting.
There are full stack developers who can be considered as all-rounders as they fulfil the duties of a front-end as well as a back-end developer.
Qualification Requirement
Some web developers have a high school diploma and have taught themselves the skills they need through online resources and self-study. Others have completed a certificate or associate’s degree program in web development or a related field.
Still, others have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
While a high school diploma or equivalent is not necessarily a requirement for becoming a web developer, it is often helpful to have a strong foundation in math and computer science. Some web development programs may prefer applicants who have completed high school or have some college coursework under their belts.
Digital Marketer
Digital Marketing is considered to be one of the most relevant fields of current times, as the expansion of the power of the Internet has only made it indispensable for utilizing it for promoting ones products and services. Naturally, the job role of a Digital Marketer happens to be one of the best jobs without college degree necessarily required.
Digital Marketing is an umbrella discipline which encompasses various segments, such as: Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM); Social Media Marketing and Content Marketing, Email Marketing and Pay-per-Click (PPC) Advertising and so on.
As a Digital Marketer, an individual is responsible for creating effective and optimizing digital marketing campaigns through utilizing digital marketing tools. This can help the business organization in different ways: it can help to build the brand image, to offer better exposure to the firm, to sell its products and services, to reach out to a broader audience and so on.
The importance of building a strong social media presence has forced organizations to tap the potential of Digital Marketers. This implies that it is definitely one of the highest paying job without college degrees.
Qualification Requirement
To qualify for this career, a high school diploma or equivalent is preferred, but not always required. Many digital marketers also gain experience by completing on the job training programs.
On the job training is typically done under the supervision of an experienced digital marketer in order to learn about the principles and practices of digital marketing.
This type of work usually involves developing content, managing social media accounts, collaborating with other marketing teams, tracking analytics, optimizing campaigns and more.
Cyber Security Specialists (Entry Level)
Given the importance and overwhelming requirement to build robust security systems and infrastructure; the need for Cyber Security specialists in all organisations has reached alarming proportions.
The field encompasses a number of entry and junior level positions which can be conveniently filled up by individuals who happen to possess relevant skills and are aware of Cyber Security best practices, even if they happen to lack formal college degrees.
Aspiring to become a Cyber Security Analyst, but do not have a formal degree do read our blog on How to become a Cyber Security Analyst Without a Degree.
As Cyber Security professionals, you shall be responsible for safeguarding the computer and network system of an organisation through identifying potential cyber threats and attacks, detecting flaws and vulnerabilities as well as testing systems and networks.
At the entry level position, this might not be one six figure salary jobs without a degree; however, it can definitely be the best launching pad for you to aim at higher, senior and more lucrative positions within the Cyber Security field.
Qualification Requirement
Entry Level Cyber Security Specialists typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. Depending on the desired job, some organizations may also require specialized certifications like CompTIA Security+, GIAC, and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
Additional qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or related field of study may be preferred, but not mandatory for certain positions.
If you wish to read more on other prominent Cyber Security jobs at the entry level, do read our blog on Entry Level Cyber Security Jobs to Keep your Eyes On.
A Cyber Security Bootcamp can be an extremely attractive starting point for initiating your career in the field, especially if you happen to lack a conventional degree.
We, at Syntax Technologies, provide you with the opportunity of developing skills in consonance with that of a Cyber Security expert, right from the comfort of your homes. Enroll today. /courses/cyber-security-certification-training-course
Aerospace Technician
Given the technical nature of this job role, it is often presumed that a formal degree is the sole route to the same; however, there are ample situation wherein certifications do suffice. In the capacity of technicians, these technicians are responsible for assisting engineers in building and testing different space and air vehicles.
They are also responsible for the repair and maintenance of electronic and electrical systems. Calibration of computer systems, along with taking every possible measure for ensuring the safety of aircraft systems, happens to be their concern.
They also assist in the process of development of new technologies for improving the performance, safety and efficiency of aerospace vehicles.
The national annual average salary of Aerospace Technicians, happens to be around $60,000 (approximately).
Qualification Requirement
Aerospace technicians typically need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. This can include a GED, home schooling or other recognized secondary education programs. Additionally, some employers may require that candidates have certifications such as airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics certification which is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Junior Data Analyst
The given age is the Data age and as professionals, Data Analysts have much to contribute in this era. The position of Data Analysts is one of the quite popular and sought after jobs which do not necessarily require a college degree. More than a formal degree, it is important to develop the right set of skills and a robust refined portfolio, demonstrating your competencies.
At the junior level, these professionals are responsible for data searches, generation of analysis material, creation of Excel sheets, providing assistance to senior Data Analysts and so on. They make use of different Data Analytics and BI tools for analyzing data and presenting their findings to senior executives.
Being a part of the right structured curriculum which can help you cultivate the right set of skills ad competencies, can plausibly offset your lack of a formal college degree.
As one of the top bootcamps, Syntax Technologies, can help you build a strong foundation within the field of Data Analytics and BI through our Data Analytics and Business Intelligence course. Enroll today.
Conclusion
It’s evident that that the right set of skills, along with practical exposure and experience can play a huge role in bypassing the need for a college degree. Degrees are certainly desirable; however, they may not be indispensable in a number of cases where the individual happens to be exceptionally good, even in the absence of a formal academic qualification.
This is all the more relevant as there are a number of avenues like bootcamps, online courses and so on, which can help you become tech ready and grab this high paying job without college degree present.