Many young Americans choose to pursue four-year degrees each year, believing that the financial rewards outweigh the potential drawbacks of accumulating significant debt. However, the reality doesn’t always match this expectation. Whether by choice or necessity, a considerable number of college graduates find themselves in jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree, leading to underemployment. Surprisingly, some non-degree jobs offer attractive salaries, especially when considering the lower educational costs and shorter training periods involved.
If you’re skeptical about the value of a traditional four-year degree or are considering a career change that doesn’t involve returning to school, there are high-paying options available. Many of these roles only demand a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may require post-secondary certification or a two-year associate degree.
Here are some of the top-paying jobs that don’t mandate a college degree, listed roughly by projected job growth over the next decade:
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Physical Therapist Assistant
- Degree or Certificate Requirements: Associate degree from an accredited physical therapy program.
- Median Salary (2021): $49,180.
- Growth Outlook (2021 – 2031): 24% job growth.
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Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Degree or Certificate Requirements: Associate degree required; programs must be accredited.
- Median Salary (2021): $61,520.
- Growth Outlook (2021 – 2031): 25% job growth.
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Respiratory Therapist
- Degree or Certificate Requirements: Associate degree from an accredited program.
- Median Salary (2021): $61,830.
- Growth Outlook (2021 – 2031): 14% job growth.
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Dental Hygienist
- Degree or Certificate Requirements: Associate degree from an accredited program.
- Median Salary (2021): $77,810.
- Growth Outlook (2021 – 2031): 9% job growth.
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Diagnostic Imaging Workers
- Degree or Certificate Requirements: One-year certificate from an accredited program.
- Median Salary (2021): $75,380.
- Growth Outlook (2021 – 2031): 10% job growth.
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Web Developer
- Degree or Certificate Requirements: No formal education credentials required for self-employed developers.
- Median Salary (2021): $78,300.
- Growth Outlook (2021 – 2031): 23% job growth.
These roles offer competitive salaries and job growth prospects without the need for a traditional college education. Each position has specific requirements and responsibilities, making them viable options for those seeking rewarding careers without a degree.
