Top 10 Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree
College can be a great and safe option for everyone; however, if you don’t want to spend the time or the money in college there are plenty of job opportunities for those without a degree. These include positions open to people with only a high school diploma or the equivalent of that. Although, some careers may require you to take some postsecondary education and training. Here’s a list of 10 jobs that don’t require a college degree.
10. Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse
Median salary: $47,480
Unemployment rate: 2.4%
Expected new job openings by 2029 : 65,700
Depending on the state, these professionals are known either as licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses. They usually have a postsecondary certificate or diploma and perform basic patient care duties such as helping them move from their bed and going to the restroom.
9. Medical Records Technician
Median Salary: $42,630
Unemployment rate: 3.9%
Expected new job openings by 2029:29,00
In hospitals there is always going to be someone that needs to maintain the patient’s paperwork, and medical records. Medical record technicians input and organize data for billing, reporting, or tracking outcomes. A Medical Record Technician position usually requires a postsecondary certificate, but may also be open to those with only high school diplomas.
8. Patrol Officer
Median Salary: $63,150
Unemployment rate: 0.7%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 39,100
With low employment and high wages, patrol officers have a top job for those without a college degree. They may direct traffic, patrol areas and investigate crashes after completing a training academy.
7. Firefighter
Median Salary: 50,850
Unemployment rate: 1.5%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 20,300
Firefighters generally need to pass written and physical exams before they can start working, but there is no degree requirement. On the job,these professionals respond to emergency calls, prepare incident reports and maintain equipment.
6. Insurance Sales Agent
Median Salary: $50,940
Unemployment rate: 2.1%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 27,000
Although insurance sales agents typically need to be licensed by their state, a college degree isn’t required. These workers can sell a variety of insurance products or specialize in a certain area such as life, property or health coverage.
5. Plumber
Median Salary: $55,160
Unemployment rate: 3.2%
Expected openings by 2029: 20,900
As a skilled trade, plumbing is something people usually learn through apprenticeships. These professionals may repair existing pipes, install plumbing systems in new constructions, and troubleshoot system malfunctions.
4. Ophthalmic Medical technician
Median salary: $36,940
Unemployment rate: 1.6%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 8,500
Anyone who has been to the eye doctor is likely familiar with the work of an ophthalmic medical technician. They administer vision tests, apply,eye drops, and measure eye pressure among other things like profiling patients’ eye records.
3. Dental Assistant
Median Salary:$40,080
Unemployment: 2.4%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 23,400
Dental assistants work alongside dentists to assist with procedures and maintain equipment. To train for this job workers in some states must complete an accredited dental assisting program and pass a licensure exam.
2. Flight Attendant
Median Salary: 56,640
Unemployment rate: 0.4%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 21,100
Boasting nearly full employment in pre-pandemic days, flight attendants have a perfect job for anyone who loves to travel. They assist airline passengers as well as conduct preflight inspections and respond to any emergency situation that may arise. Training for this job usually takes up to 6 months.
1. Medical Assistant
Median Salary: $34,800
Unemployment Rate: 1.9%
Expected new job openings by 2029: 139,200
Medical assistants don’t need a degree to do their job. The job includes measuring vitals signs, gathering patient data, and maintaining records. This is a career option that is marked by low unemployment rate and significant growth. Medical assistants prepare patient rooms for examinations. They also assist physicians with exams.