Jobs after high school without college.
Jobs after high school without college While you don't need a four-year college degree to become a plumber, many unions and Employment rates of young adults. Additionally, without the credentials a degree provides, progressing or switching careers might be more challenging. Employees who have only graduated high school tend to be more vulnerable when economic recessions or layoffs occur. There are numerous types of formal study options besides college. Dec 11, 2023 · The average annual salary of people with a high school diploma is $38,792. Apr 29, 2025 · Dozens of high-paying jobs are available for high school graduates without a four-year college degree — and there’s an increasing need for all of the positions on this list. Mar 11, 2024 · Setting career goals after high school will help you stay ahead of the curve. 2 It is important to note that the Apr 18, 2024 · Many of these jobs provide employees with on-the-job training and do not require specialized skill sets or college education. Tips for getting a job after high school. Get a summer job; Create a summer reading list Jun 10, 2023 · Working directly after high school can provide individuals with the flexibility to balance their work and educational pursuits more effectively. Popular industries for recent grads include hospitality, construction, manufacturing and warehousing, as these industries struggled to regain workers after the COVID-19 pandemic. Jan 11, 2024 · Hello Skylah! Great question. The type of work you do and the skills you provide determine whether you'll need college-level courses after high school in this field, but many jobs don't require them. However, if you want to progress to higher education, you can also choose to pursue your chosen track and enroll in a college degree program. 7. 70% of graduating High School Seniors at least attempt College. Lifeguard National average salary: $30,330 per year Primary duties: Government lifeguards work in state parks, recreation departments or public beaches. For example, workers with a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $1,305 in 2020, compared with $781 for workers with a high school diploma. Create your own path in life by starting your own small business. Jan 28, 2025 · Jobs that require more experience and specialized skills tend to pay more. Today’s level of labor force participation for young women without a college degree is slightly lower than the level seen around 2000. 3. (See chart. If you are looking for a career option that does not require more than a high school diploma, explore this article for 21 jobs that might be a good fit. There are numerous jobs and career paths you can consider if you don't plan on attending college immediately after high school. Smart job seekers are discovering careers where non-degree workers are out-earning peers with college degrees. The key is to start early when you don’t have much to lose yet. In fact, a survey from ECMC Group showed that only 48% of high school students are planning to pursue a bachelor's degree after graduation. 2 million in additional earnings over their lifetime. Staying at a job 3-5 years before leveraging experience from there to move to a next step up. Without a college degree, individuals may find themselves in lower-paying jobs with fewer opportunities for advancement. 7 percent for recent high school dropouts and 12. What Can I Do After High School Besides College? After high school, you can choose from a variety of different paths that may be a better fit for students who aren't interested in going to college. Jun 2, 2022 · The same percentage, whether completing high school or college, felt pessimistic about their futures as they transitioned into adulthood. 5. Today, there is a long list of paying jobs without a degree, and we Nov 15, 2024 · 3. Graduation means freedom from classwork, exams, teachers, and extracurricular activities. Embarking on a journey abroad after high school can be a transformative experience. Primary Care Paramedic. In 2010 approx. 6. Gap years can be good for Feb 18, 2025 · Explore job options, requirements, and resources for post-HS grads. Jun 12, 2024 · 1. 8% of college grads, 10. Feb 24, 2025 · To find the best career options for those without a degree, we filtered jobs that do not require a college degree and ranked them based on the U. Customer Service Representative. Find a high paying job without a degree. On-the-job training, apprenticeships, certificates, non-degree awards, and various levels of college degrees are typically required for entry-level jobs. You don’t need to commute and can work from anywhere–coffee shop, dorm, or any place with Wi-Fi. This happened to me and I only delayed my job search by a month post grad. But it's important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Retail is a good place to start looking for a job after high school May 9, 2024 · Many certificate programs are designed for people with a high school diploma seeking training to land an entry-level job. Trade schools are also more affordable than the typical four-year degree, with tuition often ranging from $3,600 to $16,000 in total, compared to the $30,000 per year you’d pay at many universities. Oct 14, 2024 · There’s a good reason that the professionals involved in surgery have some of the highest pay rates of any career – they do surgery. Upon graduation from college, approx. 3 percent. Nov 15, 2024 · However, it may limit your job prospects and earning potential in the longer term since many higher-paying jobs require a college education. In 2022, for example, workers age 25 and over without a high school diploma had median weekly earnings of $682. These jobs often require an apprenticeship, but they can offer a solid salary and job security. 4. Employers want people with experience so you should jump on the chance to start working even if you’re only doing an entry-level job! Job Options for High School Students . Mar 3, 2025 · Government jobs that don't require a degree Here are 15 jobs working for the government that you can get with a high school diploma: 1. Related: 5 Trade School Programs To Pursue Without a High School Diploma What fields should I apply in? Some career fields that offer employment without a high school diploma include: Restaurant service; Construction; Delivery; Automotive maintenance; Customer service; A Sep 2, 2024 · 14 High Paying Jobs ($100k+) Without a College Degree. Contrary to popular belief, it’s possible to succeed without college though. Those with a bachelor’s degree or higher had the lowest unemployment rate at 2. Mar 3, 2025 · A college degree is an asset, but it takes several years, plus a significant amount of money for tuition costs. Some students take time off after high school in what's called a gap year. Let's discuss some, keeping in mind these jobs can vary in terms of availability and entry requirements. No lifting. No Student Loans: By foregoing college, you avoid the burden of student debt, which can take many years to pay off. Jan 31, 2018 · The largest share of the working/not-in-school group (nearly half, or 42 percent) has only a high school diploma; another ten percent has less than a high school education. I had extracurriculars (band and musical theatre) and I babysat my little sister a fair bit while my parents worked. Some may require a diploma or associate degree, while others can be started with a short-term certification. 2007 and Jan. Many of these new graduates are therefore turning to alternate employment—whether that means dipping into the gig economy, prioritizing travel opportunities, or making a pivot to a burgeoning industry. Graduated high school, went straight into pole climbing school, and got his cdl. A high school diploma equivalent would do for some, while others may require certain certifications. Here are 24 jobs you can get after college graduation with little to no In today's society, earning a college degree often seems like the expected route to take after high school. Then you have a total of 30 working days on a probationary period. On average, individuals with a college degree tend to earn more than those without. You’re gone from home a lot and subjected to furloughs, job bumps due to seniority, and you’ll have to be on call 24/7 for anywhere between 1-10 years in the beginning. Mar 9, 2022 · In February 2022, the unemployment rate for people 25 years and older who were high school graduates with no college was 4. If she has a clean criminal background, she could probably walk into any nursing home and get hired in dietary or housekeeping, get her GED while working in that position, then go through nurse’s aide training for free at the facility, work as a nurse’s aide for a year or so (lots of overtime available) then go to nursing school for an 18 month RN program and be earning $50,000 + in about Feb 14, 2025 · That said, many of these jobs require specialized training or certifications to get started. This can help narrow down your job search and find you more worthwhile opportunities in your area and industry. 1,2 Analyzing outcomes data from over 30 million students, a group of Mar 3, 2025 · Employees with a high school diploma but no college education Employees who graduated high school but did not attend any form of higher education can expect to earn $712 per week or $37,024 per year if they work constantly. Certain roles may list multiple majors that are relevant to the job. Above, we mentioned that the estimated cost of being in college for four years is $142,880. ) 25 Jobs That Don’t Require College 25. Entrepreneurship. Travel abroad. Jobs with a GED or high school diploma can provide significantly more than the $32,600 mean. Feb 27, 2025 · If you're interested in entering a career straight out of high school, without pursuing a college degree or vocational certificate, the construction and trade industries offer plenty of opportunities that will offer employment without any higher education. Mar 26, 2025 · Entry-level jobs for after college When looking for a job after college, consider jobs within your area of study. 8% of workers with some college, and 12. Mar 29, 2023 · We asked parents to share the terrific careers without college they or their adult children found, and here is what they told us. Top entry-level jobs without college degree requirements Career preparation should start in high school, but it shouldn’t end with graduation: Most occupations require some type of training or education after high school. One of the most significant drawbacks of starting work directly after high school is the potential for limited earning potential. It’s easier than ever to begin a new business out of your home. Oct 1, 2024 · You might even consider taking a gap year after high school to explore opportunities like internships or part-time jobs. When it comes to finding high-paying jobs without requiring a college degree, there are many options and opportunities. Bachelor’s degree holders are half as likely to be unemployed as their peers whose highest degree is a high school diploma and they make $1. 4%). S. What Is the Highest-Paying Job Without a Degree? The highest-paying job without a degree is that of a commercial pilot, which was found to have a median annual wage of $121,430. Learn more about the 80 jobs that pay well without a degree and their projected job growth over the next ten years. But many Dec 31, 2024 · "Some students have no desire to pursue a four-year college education but recognize that the opportunity to pursue high-paying careers still exists with alternative routes," Monica Jones, a Mar 13, 2024 · Vocational School: Technical College vs Trade School – Want education for your job, but don’t want to sit through 12 credits of humanities and history and other topics that don’t relate to your interest? Consider vocational school as an alternative to college. The following are high-paying and also in demand. Software developer. 0 percent for those whose highest level of education was a high school diploma. Doing the math, you would be making more than that amount in four years if you applied for a job after high school instead of attending college. Limited Earning Potential. The report, “Launchpad Jobs: Achieving Career and Economic Success Without a Degree” – commissioned by ASA, and conducted by BGI – explores the entry-level jobs commonly filled by those without degrees and provides recommendations on how to bridge the information gap in order to ensure that all young people are aware of the breadth of Nov 21, 2024 · Meanwhile, more organizations, nonprofit training programs and states are focusing on providing training and pathways for those without college degrees. (By the way, that doesn’t mean they don’t require education—just not a four-year degree. The median salary is quite high and the job growth rate is expected to be up to par with other industries. 10. Let’s explore a variety of six-figure jobs that don’t require a college degree. Employees who attended some college classes but never graduated 12 Alternatives to Starting College Right After High School For example, if you're tech-savvy, you might be able to get a job in programming or IT without a formal degree. Ranked among the Best Jobs Without A University Degree In Canada 2025, this field offers a variety of tasks and steady demand. Absolutely, there are numerous high-demand professions that high school graduates can pursue directly without needing a college degree. 2010 jobs requiring college degrees grew by 187,000, while jobs requiring some college or an associate’s degree fell by 1. Mar 26, 2025 · Read more: Top 15 Trade School Jobs 4. It’s true many top-paying, six-figure jobs are reserved for bachelor’s or professional degree graduates. 0 percent for recent graduates enrolled in college. Jan 11, 2023 · The on-the-job training is long-term and rigorous (but you’ll appreciate it when you can actually save money and retire like an old-school human being). Many entry-level job postings for college graduates will list which majors a company prefers candidates to have for this role. School counselors want students to learn about their full range of options. Baker Feb 3, 2025 · Working with top college admissions consulting firms can help you navigate applications, essays, and financial aid to improve your chances of getting into your dream college without unnecessary stress. Workers who adapt quickly to new challenges will thrive and enjoy their careers. Typically, a high school diploma and experience in a construction trade are enough to get started. Plus, you’ll likely land a well-paying job right after Nov 5, 2024 · You definitely have a lot of options if you decide not to attend college immediately after high school. In one case, teens could become counselor assistants and, after a few years doing grunt work, could work as a camp counselor without a degree required. All Youth Enrolled in High School or College (Ages 16 to 24) In October 2024, 21. It can be the opportune time in your life to see the world you have spent so much time May 23, 2024 · As of 2023, 69% of young women with a high school education were in the labor force, as were 78% of young women with some college education. g. Dec 28, 2024 · Direct Answers: What to Do After High School without College? If you’re considering skipping college, there are several alternatives to consider: Apprenticeships and Vocational Training : Many industries, such as construction, IT, and healthcare, offer apprenticeships and vocational training programs that can provide on-the-job training and Apr 22, 2025 · The unemployment rate was 18. college education, trade school can be a quick and cost Oct 25, 2023 · Carpentry can be an excellent job choice after high school because it offers on-the-job training and apprenticeships, allowing individuals to gain skills and earn a living without a college degree Jun 28, 2024 · 10 high-paying jobs you can get in Pennsylvania without a degree Below is a list of entry-level positions you may qualify for without a degree in Pennsylvania. Note that some of Nov 8, 2023 · There are plenty of good jobs that don’t require a degree yet offer high pay and strong job growth. However, there are many paths that can lead to a happy and meaningful life. Upon graduation from college only 20% will use that degree. Share. Jun 1, 2022 · While employment rates increased between 2010 and 2019 for those with some college but no degree (from 73 to 80%) and for those who’d completed high school (from 68 to 74%), those gains were Apr 25, 2025 · Traditional four-year college degrees are not the only degree path available to a recent high school graduate. Let’s face it, students who’ve never worked before are at a major disadvantage. Students work 10 to 15 hours a week while attending classes at a work college to pay off their tuition. 6 million. Jun 7, 2023 · College isn’t necessary for every career path, and jobs that pay $100K a year without a degree are more common than you think. Those with less than a high school diploma had a similar unemployment rate, 4. After that you're union and they can't do shit unless you steal or lie. What are you good at? I have no college degree and make $90k/year after one year as a freight conductor. . Apr 12, 2022 · By June 2020, after the pandemic hit, 6. Traditional College or University Except for the summer I ran my mom’s daycare, I didn’t start working until after high school. About 5 percent of high school graduates Apr 18, 2024 · High school graduates can pursue careers in various industries, such as sales, construction and hospitality, without earning a college degree. The unemployment rate for people with some college or associate degree was 3. Online English teacher National average salary: $46,335 per year Primary duties: Online English teachers instruct students how to write, speak and interpret the English language via video calls, websites or other applications. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email. Sep 27, 2022 · Because I was able to focus and do well in high school, I eventually went on to college and grad school and now have a great job (there are other pathways besides college such as entering a trade that can also lead to great jobs and I also recognize that it was a privilege that I could focus on school without having to have major family or Oct 4, 2021 · In 1975 only 20% of graduating High School Seniors went on to college. College degrees are required for certain types of jobs, and college can be a place to explore career paths, build connections, and learn about yourself. 5 percent. If you’re not sure where to start on your journey after high school, keep reading goal-friends! Personal goals for after high school . In this article, we take a look at career paths that don’t require a college degree to get started and that you can pursue right after high school. Remember, this decision is highly personal and there is no 'one-size-fits-all' answer. Here are the different options for life after high school. Getting a job after high school gives your child the chance to enter the workforce and gain valuable experience. This comprehensive program includes one of the most widely used multiple-aptitude test batteries in the world and an interest inventory complemented by a thorough occupational database all designed to give students an in-depth look at the world of work. On-the-job skills and network-building. But, not everybody wants to go to college. Usually at least some And as expected of the new K-12 program, senior high school graduates like you can now apply for jobs right after receiving your SHS diploma. 75 million, and jobs requiring a high-school degree or less fell by 5. The estimated growth rate for this industry is 6%. Expect to pay $1,000 to $5,000 or more to complete a certificate program Apr 10, 2025 · Start your own business. Another drawback is a likely lower earning potential. A lifeguard oversees swimmers in and near the water. For some, pursuing higher education at a university or college can provide valuable knowledge, skills, and a pathway to career opportunities. Now, Otto said, he makes a living wage as a professional welder and runs a TikTok page where he teaches people Aug 18, 2024 · Many high school graduates are going straight into the job market considering many open positions do not require a bachelor’s degree. So I just graduated at the end of August and have been applying to jobs like crazy since. Click on the image to view full size. Enroll in a work college If tuition is an obstacle to attending college, a work college may offer a solution. Four-Year College Degree Four-year college degrees cover just about every field of specialized knowledge you can think of, and there are plenty of career-specific courses too. Apr 29, 2022 · Whatever your reason for starting work after high school, the secret to success is a strong resume and a good work ethic. Sep 19, 2024 · There are quite a few rewarding career paths you can take directly out of high school without needing a college degree. I got very lucky with my job position but many railroaders aren’t so lucky. What if people had to work for ten years after high New school year, old story: Education pays September 2012; High wages after high school—without a bachelor’s degree June 2012; Charting the projections: 2010-20 December 2011; Paving the occupational path: A new system for assigning education and training September 2011; Finishing high school leads to better employment prospects June 2011 Feb 7, 2024 · Trade schools are here for those seeking a quicker pathway to high-paying jobs—without the high price tag of a four-year degree. Goals after high school should also focus on personal growth and education. Want to get a job after high school? Here are our top tips to help you get hired. He cleared $100k within 2 years and eclipsed the $200k mark before age 30. It’s well deserved, too, seeing as surgeons, anesthesiologists, and OBGYNs literally hold lives in their hands – and need a good 10-12 years of higher education to get qualified to do this high paying job, from college to medical school to a residency Broaden options beyond high school. Apr 9, 2025 · Number of jobs (2023): 796,800; Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 4%; Educational requirements: High school diploma at minimum, though some roles require a college degree. Those who do not complete high school will earn, on average, between $280,000 and $350,000 less than high school graduates during their working life, according to 2015 estimates reported by the Social Security Administration. I graduated with my BS in Business Admin degree from a reputable school in my area. 5 percent of youth, were enrolled in high school (9. Most police officers Mar 3, 2025 · To become a senior real estate manager without a college degree, you can typically gain experience in entry-level positions and work your way up to this job with a high median salary. 7 million 16- to 24-year-olds, or 55. The report gathered and analyzed data on a variety of Dec 28, 2023 · I know two different people who ran camp programs. In honor of National Higher Education Day on June 6, the Put another way, in 2031, 70 percent of workers with a college degree will have a good job, 40 percent of those with some post-high school education will have a good job and just 2 percent of Feb 14, 2024 · After graduating from high school, you may have the option to study abroad instead of going to a local college. 5 percent, compared with 9. The job market moves fast when it comes to hiring Nov 11, 2024 · A power plant operation is a highly technical job — it doesn’t require education beyond your high school diploma. Learning about some good-paying jobs that require a high school diploma can help you plan your future career path. Below is a list of 75 jobs teens and young adults can pursue without a college degree. Dec 7, 2024 · High-paying jobs don't always require a college degree. To get started, write a business plan, name your business, and get your federal and state IDs. Within each of the categories below, there are many directions to take, but these outline the major paths a student might take after high school: Military career; Join the workforce with a job right out of high school. Nov 8, 2023 · So the apprenticeship career path can also be a direct college alternative after high school for some people, especially those who studied job-related skills as a part of their high school education. Then you have 2-3 says with an on road supervisor doing the actual job. Oct 24, 2022 · Debating about going to college? Well, before you make a decision checkout my list of the top 10 highest paying jobs that anyone can do without a college deg Jan 2, 2025 · Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 0%; Job responsibilities for construction and building inspectors. According to BLS data, more than two-thirds of jobs are in occupations that don’t typically require a college degree. I stayed as long as there was a clear next step for me. Volunteering is among the best ways to spend a year between high school and college, experts say. Apr 18, 2024 · 24 entry-level jobs for college grads Now that you know how best to find a job with no experience, it's time to consider positions you may find interesting. Now, let’s get into different options for life after high school! 1. Construction and building inspectors verify that construction projects meet local codes, zoning rules, and safety standards. News 100 Best Jobs ranking. May 1, 2025 · What Is the Best Choice After High School? The best choice after high school varies for each individual, contingent on their aspirations, academic performance, and practical circumstances. Dec 18, 2024 · Go to college; Save cash; Attend a trade school; Learn a language; Get fit; Study abroad; Join the military; Write a novel; Get a job; What to do after high school: 14 options Travel abroad. Consider your skills. ) The shocking truth is that, nowadays, a degree is not necessary to get a lucrative job. 2% of high school grads were unemployed. Didn't graduate with my original High School Class, went to continuation High School to be accepted by the Marines. 7/4 (include if 3. Workers whose highest level of education was a diploma made $853 per week, or just over 25 percent more than those who didn’t finish high school—and earnings improved with every level of education completed. Sports coach May 25, 2017 · But it is worth the effort — and never too late. The job I had after high school to save for college (I took a year long certificate program) isn’t even on my resume anymore. Getting a full time job out of college is a LOT harder than getting a part time job or internship while your in college. 9 million) or in college (11. And the unemployment rate for bachelor’s-level workers was 5. After all, a university diploma is not an exclusive prerogative for a successful career. Then you go through training which is just how to do the job. College doesn't necessarily have to be a thing, but you are going to need something beyond a high school diploma to live decently. 70% used that degree to secure employment. It offers the opportunity to earn a steady income, gain real-world experience, build a professional network, provide stability and structure, help you determine your career path, save money on education, and Dec 30, 2024 · This job can be desirable for those who enjoy working to build and maintain computer networks and systems. One potential path is through the skilled trades, such as an electrician, plumber, or HVAC technician. Some people Feb 29, 2024 · Plumber ranks No. Find high-growth careers, jobs without degrees, resume tips, and pathways to long-term success. I’ve been seeing these YouTube videos where a guy goes asking college grads at their graduation what jobs they have lined up and they are all 70k-100k jobs right out of Nov 9, 2024 · These 14 careers after high school are among the best available. Jan 2, 2023 · These are just a few of the awesome jobs that put your military expertise to good use. 14, 2024. 1 The employment rate (also known as the employment-to-population ratio) is the percentage of persons in the civilian noninstitutionalized population who are employed. Getting creative with these types of experiences can help you better understand the day-to-day work in different industries as you build confidence in your abilities. Check out our 40 top career choices below, and present them to your daughter or son. Feb 14, 2023 · People are going to college without a plan, without a career in mind, because the mindset in high school is just, 'Go to college. On-the-job skills and network-building As a driver you have to take a driving test. Sep 29, 2023 · The median wage for high school diploma recipients is about $809 a week—higher than those without a diploma ($626), but well below the median for bachelor’s degree holders ($1,334). The choice between going to college or getting a job is highly personal and depends on your career goals, financial situation and personal circumstances. Nov 5, 2024 · Job stability may also be potentially less without a college degree. Learning Marketable Skills: Some professions don't require a college degree, and learning a trade or starting an apprenticeship can offer excellent long-term job prospects. Entrepreneurship is another great alternative to traditional college education. Nov 5, 2024 · When deciding on a job after high school, consider factors like: - Salaries and benefits - Opportunities for career advancement - Training and development opportunities - Personal passion and interest - The necessity of additional certifications - Work-life balance - Location Remember, what you choose to do immediately after high school isn't a In conclusion, going straight into the workforce after completing high school or college may be the perfect option for many young adults. You may also pursue some additional education, such as relevant certifications, to qualify for available job openings with this title. He was still 18 when he started working as a groundsman, he was earning mid $30s an hr. One of the most in-demand health care career, primary care paramedics, are needed all over Canada. Feb 17, 2025 · A high school diploma suffices, with many employers offering on-the-job training to sharpen your skill set. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupation Finder, roughly a quarter of all professions do not require a degree and have median salaries above $40K, which is above the US Census’ per capita personal income of $37,638. There’s also a common belief that a traditional four-year college is the only career path after high school. Full-Time Job – Gain Experience & Save Money Source: Youtube/Screenshot, ATC requires breaks every 90–120 minutes for safety. U. 6 days ago · Cons Of Beginning Work Directly After High School 1. HEALTH CARE CAREERS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL 1. 6%. Methodology. 5 and/or above) Jan 28, 2025 · 15 school jobs that don't require a degree Here is a list of school jobs that don't require a degree: 1. Traveling exposes you to new cultures, broadens your perspective, and Jan 15, 2025 · 26. A high school diploma is your passport to a more interesting and better-paying job. When they choose working instead of college, they not only get the opportunity to earn money right away, but they also get to see what it's like working full time for a living. Apr 25, 2025 · Start an online job for a successful career path. The evidence that a college degree significantly improves one’s employment prospects and earnings potential is overwhelming. The ones you do find are going to be HIGHLY sought after or are going to be undesirable. There many careers where you can make a good living without a 4-year college degree. Nov 26, 2024 · The freelance market is packed with jobs perfect for high school graduates and women starting out. 8 million). Here are a few: - Air traffic controller: While this job does require technical training and passing multiple Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams, it does not require a traditional college degree. Here are some of the more common ones: 1. Plus, the skills they demand and tips for starting. Education: High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; Years of experience: None; Median income: $80,850; Projected job openings Keep in mind that many of these jobs do require some training after high school, just not at a college or university. who only have completed high school or an equivalent is $36,919, while Ohioans who have a bachelor's College graduates – regardless of their major – earn considerably more than those without college degrees, and they are highly likely to be satisfied with their jobs and their lives. Online jobs are often a great fit for college students, as many come with the opportunity to gain real-world skills without having to work around the schedule of a traditional nine-to-five employer. These are among the key takeaways from a new report, State of the Humanities 2021: Workforce & Beyond, from the Academy’s Humanities Indicators project. This article focuses on high-earning occupations at three education levels below the bachelor’s degree: • Associate’s degree • Postsecondary non-degree award • High school diploma Any adult who has not received a high school diploma in the United States can earn their high school equivalency diploma by sitting for a high school equivalency exam such as the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC), or General Equivalency Diploma (GED). 4 education levels—some college but no degree and less than a high school diploma—are not included in this article because so few of them had high wages. 2. 4 among the Best Construction Jobs and No. , coding boot camps, niche theater schools, athletic programs. Mar 4, 2024 · For Ohioans without a college degree, here are some high-paying and growing occupations. Before you start your job search, think about your skills. getty. I'm a data analyst making over 100k with no college degree, but I have a lot of experience over the last 15ish years and started entry level. By March 2022, the unemployment rate had nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels for college graduates (2%) while dropping to 3% among those with some college education but no four-year degree, and 4% Nov 26, 2024 · If you’re a high school student who needs a more individualized approach to schooling, contact us to speak with someone who can help you navigate the enrollment process by calling (888) 995-7143. This is especially so if you have a special interest or passion, e. Oct 27, 2024 · It’s one of the best options after high school if you’re eager to start earning. Here are 12 great jobs for veterans, with or without a degree 1. Sales representative National average salary: $76,774 per year Job outlook: 2%, slower than average Primary duties: A sales representative generates sales leads, sets sales goals, negotiates contracts with clients, maintains client records, acts as the point of contact for clients, prepares and submits sales contracts for orders and makes regular reports. High-paying jobs without a college degree Tech and data careers 1. Others require certification to advance in the role. Median Annual Salary: ,300* The Forecast: The BLS projects 5-9% job growth through 2026. Car and truck mechanics Safety The ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP) is a FREE career planning resource available to high schools nationwide. The security afforded through the military is extremely exceptional. Some require some training and certification. Apr 11, 2023 · Is it the best option to get a job right after high school ends? Deciding whether to get a job immediately after high school or pursue further education is a significant choice that depends on various factors, including individual circumstances, career goals, financial considerations, and personal aspirations. 1. Completely did my best (Sergeant within 4 years, 2 deployments, and well liked with the people I worked and for with), drank the kool-aid, but without sacrificing my ideals. This often results in smaller tuition payments, if any at all. Dec 30, 2022 · Continuing your studies after high school is one of the most common options, but college is just one kind of education you can choose from. Trades: A lot of jobs in the trades don't require a college degree and they pay quite well. To develop this ranking, our editors consulted the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to identify the high-paying jobs without a degree, limiting our search to jobs with a median annual wage of over $59,000 per year Feb 24, 2025 · After high school, many students choose to go on to college or university. In addition, the Education Data Initiative says the average cost of college in the United States has more than doubled in the 21st Aug 13, 2024 · On average, bachelor’s holders still earn more money than the average high school or community college grad and the number of good new jobs for them is predicted to grow. Apr 22, 2024 · The high cost of college prompts a change in career paths. Many of these jobs offer high-paying salaries above the national average. Many companies offer tuition assistance programs or flexible scheduling options that allow employees to attend classes or complete online coursework without compromising their job responsibilities. 8 among the Highest-Paying Jobs Without a Degree. Nov 21, 2024 · Two volunteers pack holiday boxes at the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, in Hillside, NJ, on Nov. Trade and vocational schools can be alternative options for people interested in learning specific technical skills, like those required to be a welder, electrician, plumber, construction worker, truck driver, medical assistant, or home health aide. Im also pro-military, though none of my kids elected that option. Trade jobs: Many skilled trade jobs, such as electrician, plumber, welder, or HVAC technician, are well-paying and in high demand. Retail Jobs . 8 percent. citizenship is not required to take these For many young people with learning and thinking differences, high school may be a struggle. Trade work: Vocational fields like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work require specialized training, usually through an apprenticeship, rather than a traditional college degree. Median salary: $130,160/year Jan 14, 2019 · As more college graduates enter the workforce, it appears they're finding fewer job prospects straight out of school. Computer/Information Technology Trades such as plumbing, welding, electrician, etc. Consulting: Leveraging Experience If you have deep industry experience (marketing, HR Apr 8, 2025 · To prove that college isn’t the only or even the best path for everyone, here’s a list of 25 high-paying jobs, listed from lowest to highest pay, that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. This should be the top comment. Mar 11, 2023 · In Tennessee, education officials issued a “call to action” after finding just 53 percent of public high school graduates were enrolling in college in 2021, far below the national average. 2 You're not going to find many jobs that "pay well" with just a high school diploma. Dec 11, 2024 · Teaching at a public school generally requires a four-year degree eventually, but getting started in the career doesn't always require immediate enrollment in college after high school. Question: What information do you have on the employment rates of young adults? Response: This Fast Fact examines recent trends in the employment rate. Instead, the skills needed to be successful in this position are taught on the job. Most of the occupations in the tables that follow typically require at least a high school diploma to enter; specific outlook and wages vary. Mar 3, 2025 · While skiing instructors can take a college education to practice their communications skills, training and a high school diploma provide enough education to prepare them for this field. I made calculated job moves wothout burning bridges. 7% versus 32. 6 days ago · – Your high school name, city, and state – For example: Chicago Vocational High School, Chicago, IL – Graduation date – For example: December, 2026 – GPA (if relevant and strong) – For example, 3. Oct 3, 2024 · Recent high school graduates not enrolled in college in October 2023 were more than twice as likely to be in the labor force as graduates enrolled in college (71. Dec 16, 2021 · As college costs continue to outstrip real wage growth, many students are considering alternatives to a four-year college education. For the most up-to-date Indeed salaries, click on the links below: Nov 21, 2023 · Jumping directly into the workforce after high school can help you build professional experience and lay the foundation for a career. ' "It's not that finding a job in the trades, or even manufacturing Apr 18, 2025 · During the recession between Dec. We’re going to look at 18 good careers that don’t require college education (including some that pay $100,000 and above with just a high school diploma). Opportunities created by employment growth are only part of the outlook picture. Jan 28, 2025 · After high school, he attended a community college and earned an associate's degree. Their unemployment rate is 4. Here are some suggestions for decent-paying jobs that do not require a degree: 1. wng fnx tzyvqti ulvvaz etaqqg welo ybxype bgnlbow htrz cgagrh mfaugz lbtrwn wttxkj tvktienn hiawk