In today’s job market, a college degree is often seen as a prerequisite for landing a good job. However, there are many careers that don’t require a college degree and offer good pay, job security, and opportunities for growth. In this list, we have compiled 30 good careers that don’t require a college degree.
These careers range from skilled trades to service jobs and include positions in fields such as healthcare, technology, and business. While some of these careers may require vocational training or certification, many offer on-the-job training and opportunities for advancement.
It’s important to note that the specific requirements and job outlook for each career may vary by location and industry, so it’s important to research and explore each option thoroughly. If you are looking for a career that doesn’t require a college degree, this list may offer some valuable insights and ideas.
There are many good careers that don’t require a college degree. Here are some examples:
Software developer: While some employers require a degree, many don’t. Self-taught developers can also succeed in this field.
Web developer: Similar to software development, web development doesn’t always require a degree. Many successful web developers are self-taught.
Electrician: Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes and businesses. To become an electrician, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship program and pass a licensing exam.
Plumber: Plumbers install and repair plumbing systems in homes and businesses. Like electricians, plumbers usually complete an apprenticeship program and pass a licensing exam.
HVAC technician: HVAC technicians install and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Many employers offer on-the-job training for this position.
Dental hygienist: Dental hygienists clean teeth and provide preventive dental care. To become a dental hygienist, you typically need an associate degree and a license.
Commercial driver: Commercial drivers operate large vehicles like trucks and buses. To become a commercial driver, you typically need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which you can obtain through a training program.
Real estate agent: Real estate agents help clients buy and sell homes and other properties. While some states require a degree, others do not. Most states do require real estate agents to pass a licensing exam.
Carpenter: Carpenters build and repair structures made of wood. To become a carpenter, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship program or vocational training.
Welder: Welders use heat and electricity to join metals together. To become a welder, you typically need vocational training or on-the-job training.
Cosmetologist: Cosmetologists provide hair, nail, and skin care services to clients. To become a cosmetologist, you typically need to complete a state-approved cosmetology program and pass a licensing exam.
Fitness trainer: Fitness trainers help clients reach their fitness goals through exercise and nutrition. While some employers require a degree, many do not. Certification through a recognized organization is often required.
Personal care aide: Personal care aides help elderly or disabled clients with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. To become a personal care aide, you typically need on-the-job training.
Sales representative: Sales representatives sell products or services to businesses or consumers. While some employers require a degree, many do not. Sales experience and communication skills are often more important.
Insurance agent: Insurance agents help clients choose insurance policies that meet their needs. While some employers require a degree, many do not. Licensing and training through a recognized organization is often required.
Commercial diver: Commercial divers work underwater in a variety of industries, such as construction, oil and gas, and search and rescue. While some employers require a degree, many do not. Training through a recognized diving school and certification is often required.
Landscaper: Landscapers design and maintain outdoor spaces, such as gardens and parks. To become a landscaper, you typically need on-the-job training or vocational training.
Graphic designer: Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software or by hand. While some employers require a degree, many do not. A strong portfolio and proficiency in graphic design software are often more important.
Photographer: Photographers take pictures for a variety of purposes, such as weddings, events, and commercial use. While some employers require a degree, many do not. A strong portfolio and proficiency in photography equipment and software are often more important.
Medical assistant: Medical assistants help healthcare providers with administrative and clinical tasks. To become a medical assistant, you typically need vocational training or on-the-job training.
Emergency medical technician (EMT): EMTs respond to emergency calls and provide medical care in the field. To become an EMT, you typically need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam.
Food service manager: Food service managers oversee restaurants, cafeterias, and other food service establishments. While some employers require a degree, many do not. Experience in the food service industry and leadership skills are often more important.
Solar panel installer: Solar panel installers assemble, install, and maintain solar panel systems on rooftops or other structures. To become a solar panel installer, you typically need vocational training or on-the-job training.
Dental assistant: Dental assistants help dentists with patient care and office tasks. To become a dental assistant, you typically need vocational training or on-the-job training.
Security guard: Security guards monitor and protect properties from theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities. To become a security guard, you typically need on-the-job training or certification.
Truck driver: Truck drivers transport goods and materials over long distances. To become a truck driver, you typically need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), which you can obtain through a training program.
Oil and gas rig worker: Oil and gas rig workers operate and maintain drilling equipment on oil and gas rigs. While some employers require a degree, many do not. On-the-job training is typically required.
Pest control technician: Pest control technicians inspect properties for pests and apply treatments to eliminate them. To become a pest control technician, you typically need on-the-job training or certification.
Makeup artist: Makeup artists apply makeup and cosmetics to clients for events, photoshoots, and other occasions. While some employers require a degree, many do not. A strong portfolio and proficiency in makeup application techniques are often more important.
Massage therapist: Massage therapists use touch to manipulate muscles and other soft tissues to relieve pain and tension. To become a massage therapist, you typically need vocational training and a license.
