While higher education can help you land a high-paying job faster, there are some high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 60% of new jobs in the economy between 2020 and 2030 will be in occupations that don’t typically require a degree.
Resume Genius career expert Eva Chan explains that with rising college tuition fees and student loan debt, more people are exploring alternative career paths that offer competitive salaries and career growth without a four-year educational commitment. This trend has been accelerated by the pandemic.
Employers in sectors such as healthcare, information technology, logistics, transportation, and hospitality are catching on to this shift and are offering job seekers diverse opportunities without the need for a college education. However, Chan notes that a college degree still offers advantages in many fields and the decision should be based on individual career goals, interests, and financial circumstances.
Resume Genius’s 2024 High-Pay, No-Degree Jobs Report has compiled a list of the top 20 highest-paying jobs that don’t necessarily require a degree. The top job on the list is airline or commercial pilot, although advancing in this field may eventually require a degree. Other high-paying jobs on the list include information security analyst, elevator and escalator installer and repairer, special effects artist and animator, and transportation, storage, and distribution manager.
Working in cybersecurity as an information security analyst offers a lucrative calling with an average salary of $112,000 and an estimated 168,900 positions available. This position doesn’t require a degree in computer science but can be pursued through self-learning, vocational programs, and work experience. Additional certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker provide validation of expertise.
Overall, the job market is shifting, and job seekers are exploring alternative paths to secure high-paying jobs. While a college degree can still offer advantages in certain fields, it is no longer the only path to success. Employers are recognizing the value of diverse educational backgrounds and hands-on experience, opening doors for individuals in various sectors. So, if you’re looking for a six-figure salary and career growth opportunities, remember that a college degree may not always be a requirement.
