What are the best jobs without a degree?
From coding jobs to virtual assistant jobs, here are answers to the question, “What’s the best job to get right now without a degree?”
- Customer Service Representative
- Web Designer
- Electricians
- Community Health Worker
- Carpentry
- Assistant in Administration
- Medical Coding Specialist
- Software Engineer
- Executive Assistant
- Freelance Writing
- Social Media Manager
- Event Planner
- Plumber
- SEO Specialist
- Virtual Assistant
- Data Entry
- Sales Coordinator
Customer Service Representative
Without a doubt, the best job you can get right now without a degree is a customer service representative.
As the world becomes more digital, customer service and support are more critical than ever. Companies of all sizes are looking for people to help customers navigate their websites, answer questions about products, and offer solutions to their problems.
Customer service roles are available for people with all levels of experience and education. The most important thing you can bring to the table is a friendly, helpful attitude. Companies are looking for people who are passionate about helping others and can brighten someone’s day every time they pick up the phone.
Matthew Ramirez, CEO, Rephrasely
Web Designer
In this day and age, every company, as well as every event and organization, needs a well-functioning and eye-pleasing website. You’d think that most would already have it covered, but there’s still a lot of work ahead of many businesses, and that’s where you come in.
As a web developer, you will be tasked with designing websites that attract clients and make companies stand out on the internet. Provided you have passion, creativity, and a satisfactory skill set on your side, a college degree won’t be necessary as you join up with fellow web designers – a job that can pay really well.
Natalia Brzezinska, Marketing and Outreach Manager, UK Passport Photo
Electricians
Electricians are one of the most integral tradespeople in the modern world. You may not think about it, but nearly every building that you visit during your day has been serviced by an electrician at some point, likely multiple times.
This profession will have no shortage of job opportunities. The average salary for an electrician falls at a comfortable $53k but can range upwards of $60k a year. You’ll need plenty of training to become an electrician, but it’s a solid, in-demand profession that’s likely to remain safe even during economic recessions.
This is one non-degree job that will pay the bills and keep you working even at the worst of times. That is exactly the kind of security all workers are looking for nowadays, degree or not.
Max Schwartzapfel, CMO, Schwartzapfel Lawyers
Community Health Worker
Many individuals are looking for community health worker (CHW) jobs without a degree to help support their families and serve their communities.
CHWs help to provide health services to those in need, in their respective communities. They provide health education on a variety of topics, such as nutrition, disease prevention, mental health, and health promotion.
The salary for CHW jobs depends on the specific job and the organization that is hiring. Many of these positions also offer benefits, such as health insurance and sick leave. CHW jobs to get right now without a degree can be found in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, community centers, and non-profit organizations.
In order to be successful in this type of job, the individual must possess strong interpersonal skills, have the ability to work independently, and have a desire to help others. It is also important for them to be able to adapt to different situations and be able to work with people from various backgrounds.
Diana Royanto, Writer, Milkwhale
Carpentry
For a person looking for work without a degree, carpentry is a fantastic alternative. Carpenters appreciate the challenge of making something one-of-a-kind and beautiful out of wood while getting their hands dirty, thus this line of work can be quite fulfilling.
Jobs for expert carpenters are in high demand since they are required to build new houses and businesses, repair improvements, make furniture, install cabinets, and more! Although a degree is not necessary to become a carpenter, it is crucial that they have knowledge of carpentry methods, experience using those methods, and a foundational understanding of measurements and math.
In addition to technical expertise, a positive attitude and effective communication skills are critical for success in this line of work. Most carpentry jobs are full-time, however, they often have flexible hours that allow for overtime or some part-time options depending on business needs.
Jim Campbell, Owner, Camp Media
Assistant in Administration
An administrative assistant helps individuals and organizations with their administrative needs. This can involve creating different reports, carrying out research, talking to clients, and planning meetings and seminars for the company.
Administrative assistants may support the entire business, a single department, or a single employee in the office, depending on the specifics of the position. I believe that only a high school diploma is needed, along with soft skills like communication and organizational processes.
Daniel Foley, Founder, Daniel Foley Consultancy
Medical Coding Specialist
Medical coding specialists are extremely detail-oriented professionals who specialize in assigning codes to patient diagnoses, procedures, and treatments. These codes are used for facilitating billing and reimbursement from Medicare or health insurance companies, tracking patient data, or conducting research.
Medical coding specialists are also responsible for reviewing and analyzing patient charts and ensuring that the information is accurate, complete, and accessible. They play an essential role in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of patient data and ensuring that records comply with current coding guidelines, healthcare system standards, or other regulations.
The job typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. However, some employers prefer to hire those with an associate or certificate degree in Medical Billing and Coding, or related fields. So, if a person doesn’t want to go to college, this is a career path worth considering.
Nina Paczka, Community Manager, Resume Now
Software Engineer
Despite recent tech layoffs, programming is still a strong area for employment. These positions typically don’t require a formal degree, though some may require a coding boot camp or proof of self-training.
Coding jobs tend to pay well, and many offer remote options. This is helpful for the challenging economic times we are in, as it allows workers the flexibility to live in a cheaper cost-of-living area. If you’re looking for a position that doesn’t require a four-year degree, look into the requirements for software engineering roles.
Brian Munce, Managing Director, Gestalt Brand Lab
Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is one of the most popular and in-demand jobs to get without a degree. You can be hired to write articles, blog posts, copywriting, ebooks, and much more for companies or individuals all over the world. It’s a great way to make money and build a portfolio of writing samples.
All you need is an internet connection, a laptop, and some experience in the field.
Martin Seeley, CEO, Mattress Next Day
Social Media Manager
Consider a career in social media. This relates more to experience instead of what type of degree you have. Showcase your own social media strategy or the work you’ve done for a client during interviews, or maybe even ideas you have for the company.
These digital platforms are still evolving as we do, so it’s difficult to receive a degree in it. Use your skillset to your advantage.
Randee Machina, Director of Marketing, Simpli Pleasures
Event Planner
One of the best jobs to start without a degree is an event planner. Event planners coordinate and manage every aspect of various affairs. They organize weddings, birthdays, baby showers, corporate parties, and many more.
Event planners’ role is to tailor an event to their clients’ needs. They conceptualize theme ideas, make arrangements with vendors, plan budgets, and manage logistics.
To succeed in this career, you don’t need any formal education. Still, excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are a must. Client-first approach and multitasking will also be helpful. Event organizing is well-paying, fast-paced, and greatly rewarding when you see the final effects of your work.
Agata Szczepanek, Community Manager, LiveCareer
Plumber
Trade jobs are just as important and necessary as anything else. If you don’t have a degree but are still willing to learn, a job as a plumber is a well-paying, degree-free job that will be in demand for as long as people own homes.
The average salary of most plumbers is respectably around $59k on average, but does have variance depending on where in the world you’re working.
This job isn’t just about troubleshooting either. For example, plumbers may also work alongside building designers to build blueprints for plumbing of upcoming structures. This is a job that might seem simple at a glance, but can provide a challenge both physically and mentally, along with a good paycheck and job security.
Don’t underestimate trade skills like plumbing; they can land you a solid, well-paying career path if you’re willing to put in the work.
Neel Shah, Founder, EZ Newswire
SEO Specialist
One job that you can consider right now without a degree is a search engine optimization (SEO) specialist.
Some of the benefits of becoming an SEO specialist include:
- High earning potential: SEO specialists can earn a competitive salary and many have the ability to earn bonuses and commissions based on the performance of their campaigns.
- High growth: The digital marketing industry is growing rapidly, and SEO is a key component of this growth. This means that there are many opportunities for career advancement and growth within the field.
- Ability to start your own company: Once you have gained experience and knowledge in SEO, you can start your own digital marketing agency or consult with clients independently.
Mark McShane, Marketing Director, Leeds First Aid Courses
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistant jobs are currently the most in-demand jobs with some of the best perks online. You can enter this field without a degree; all that is needed is a simple online training, which does not take longer than a month to accomplish.
The best thing about VA jobs is that you will be consistently learning as the field requires you to be on top of industry trends to help the person you work with become better and retain you longer in the job.
For non-degree holders looking for a career with a low barrier to entry that they can accomplish while at home and learn more about different fields, a virtual assistant is a job to go for.
Alvin Wei, Co-founder and CMO, SEOAnt
Data Entry
Computers are used by data entry clerks to add alphabetical data to a company’s database. In my opinion, the gathered information can come from a variety of methods, including handwritten notes, audio recordings, or online feedback forms.
The hiring organization will process and use this information. There are no educational prerequisites for this position; instead, candidates should have a strong work ethic, basic computer skills, and a fast typing speed because the remuneration is typically directly related to the amount of information they input.
Adam Crossling, Head of Marketing, Zenzero
Sales Coordinator
Sales is an ideal job for those who want to get ahead without a college degree. With the right attitude and skill set, it offers huge earning potential and lots of opportunities for growth and success. Salespeople are always in demand, so there’s no worry about job security.
Plus, the job requires strong communication skills, problem-solving aptitude, and knowledge of customer service. All these qualities can be learned without attending a university.
Derek Bruce, Senior Director, Newcastle First Aid Courses
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