Highest Paying Jobs Without a College Degree
High-paying careers accessible through apprenticeships, associate\'s degrees, and specialized training.
A four-year college degree isn\'t the only path to a six-figure career. These 15 occupations prove that skilled trades, technical training, and associate\'s degrees can lead to exceptional earning potential without the burden of four-year tuition costs and student debt.
Top Rankings
From air traffic controllers to elevator installers, these careers demonstrate that technical skills and specialized training can be just as valuable—and lucrative—as traditional college degrees. Several positions exceed $100,000 in median annual earnings.
Air Traffic Controller
Coordinate aircraft movements to ensure safety. Requires FAA Academy training and extensive on-the-job development. One of the highest-paying non-bachelor's degree careers.
Nuclear Power Reactor Operator
Control nuclear reactors that generate electricity. Requires NRC licensing, extensive training, and ongoing education. Premium pay for specialized technical skills.
Elevator Installer and Repairer
Install, maintain, and fix elevators, escalators, and lifts. Complete 4-year apprenticeship combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training.
Power Plant Operator
Control power-generating equipment and electrical distribution. Requires long-term on-the-job training and ongoing certifications despite declining employment.
Commercial Pilot
Fly aircraft for charters, cargo, and aerial services. Requires FAA commercial pilot license, instrument rating, and extensive flight hours.
Radiation Therapist
Administer radiation treatments to cancer patients. Complete 2-year accredited program and obtain state licensure or national certification.
Dental Hygienist
Provide preventive dental care and patient education. Popular for flexible schedules, with many hygienists working part-time for multiple dentists.
Electrical Power-Line Installer
Install and repair electrical power cables and equipment. Often work outdoors in all weather conditions, at heights, and during emergencies.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Operate ultrasound equipment to create diagnostic images. Complete accredited program and pursue professional certification for best opportunities.
Respiratory Therapist
Treat patients with breathing problems and operate ventilators. Growing demand due to aging population and prevalence of respiratory conditions.
Boilermaker
Assemble, install, and repair boilers and large vessels. Complete apprenticeship that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training.
Construction Manager
Many advance from construction trades to management through experience. Bachelor's degree increasingly preferred but not always required for those with extensive field experience.
Electrician
Install and maintain electrical systems. Complete 4-5 year apprenticeship and obtain state license. High demand and potential for self-employment.
Plumber
Install and repair piping systems for water, gas, and waste. Apprenticeship-trained workers often start their own businesses after gaining experience.
Police Officer
Protect lives and property through patrol and criminal investigation. Complete police academy training and enjoy strong benefits including pension plans.
Understanding Non-Degree Career Paths
High-paying careers without bachelor\'s degrees typically fall into three categories:
- Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and elevator installers learn through apprenticeships
- Technical Roles: Healthcare positions requiring associate\'s degrees and certifications
- Specialized Training: Air traffic controllers and pilots with industry-specific education
Advantages of Alternative Paths
- Lower education costs: Avoid four-year tuition expenses and minimize student debt
- Earn while learning: Apprenticeships provide paid training and experience
- Faster entry: Many programs take 2 years or less compared to 4+ year degrees
- High demand: Skilled trades often face worker shortages, increasing wages
- Job security: Technical skills are difficult to outsource or automate
- Entrepreneurship potential: Many tradespeople start successful businesses
Getting Started
Different career paths require different approaches:
- Apprenticeships: Apply directly to unions, contractors, or through DOL apprenticeship programs
- Community colleges: Enroll in accredited programs for healthcare and technical careers
- Trade schools: Focused training for specific careers like HVAC or welding
- Military service: Gain technical training and experience, especially for aviation and nuclear fields
- Certifications: Pursue industry credentials that demonstrate competency without degrees
Success Factors
- Commitment to learning: Technical skills require continuous education and certification maintenance
- Physical stamina: Many trades demand physical strength and tolerance for challenging conditions
- Problem-solving abilities: Technical roles require troubleshooting complex systems
- Safety consciousness: Working with electricity, heavy equipment, or at heights requires careful attention
- Customer service: Many tradespeople work directly with clients and must communicate effectively
Is This Path Right for You?
Consider non-degree careers if you:
- Prefer hands-on work over desk jobs
- Want to minimize education debt
- Enjoy problem-solving and working with tools or technology
- Value job security in fields resistant to automation
- Are willing to complete rigorous training and licensing requirements
- Can tolerate physical demands, irregular hours, or outdoor work (depending on field)
Data Source
All data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, Employment Projections, and Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Data reflects May 2024 estimates and 2024-2034 projections. "Without degree" includes positions requiring high school diploma, postsecondary nondegree awards (certificates), and associate\'s degrees.