In certain industries, relevant work experience, internships, training and certifications are just as important, if not more, than a four-year degree.
Job applications usually have a minimum educational requirement — some college, an associate's, bachelor’s or master’s degree. But with average student loan debt topping $1.77 trillion (an increase of 66% in the past 10 years), according to the Federal Reserve, you might ask if a four-year college degree is worth it.
The answer will likely depend on your career choice. Some professions — medical and health care providers, lawyers, teachers, nuclear engineers — all require a degree or degrees.
However, some underrepresented career fields welcome applicants who never attended college or don't hold a four-year degree, and some of these careers pay very well.
There are plenty of in-demand careers with a salary higher than $59,228 (the median U.S. annual salary in 2024), according to "10 Highest Paying Jobs Without a Degree in 2025," a report from career resource platform Resume Genius.
The list spotlights 10 well-paying jobs and their accompanying educational requirements, based on the latest data (2023) from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The data takes into account a minimum U.S. median annual salary and high growth projections, as well as jobs with more stable, little-change scenarios.
Here are the 10 highest-paying jobs with high growth projections that don't require a degree this year.
1. Elevator and escalator installer and repairer (up from #3 last year)
- Median annual salary: (2023) $102,420
- Number of jobs (2023): 24,400
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 6%
- Educational requirements: High school diploma, completion of a 4-year apprenticeship and a state license or certification.
- Work experience: None. But you’ll work in tight spaces and at heights, so it’s necessary to have physical stamina and be comfortable in small spaces. Repair workers might also be on call 24 hours a day or need to work overtime.
2. Transportation, storage, and distribution manager
- Median annual salary: (2023) $99,200
- Number of jobs (2023): 211,800
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 9%
- Educational requirements: High school diploma or equivalent and vocational training
- Work experience: None for entry-level jobs, but relevant work experience in a related role and certifications are beneficial. Some employers might prefer or require a bachelor’s degree.
3. Electrical power-line installer and repairer
- Median annual salary: (2023) $85,420
- Number of jobs (2023): 123,400
- Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 8%
- Educational requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
- Work experience: Technical training is typically completed through a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job apprenticeships.
Full article @ https://www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/careers/20-highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree-in-2024