7 Best Job Specialties You Don’t Need a College Degree For

Last Updated on October 12, 2022 by Andrew

Before the digital revolution, college degrees were the ultimate proof of employability. But with the advent of technology and the rise of the gig economy, that’s no longer the case. You can now use tools like a fake transcript maker to create a credential that will make you just as attractive to employers. Companies now care less about where you went to school and more about what you can do.

As a result, you can get a job in healthcare, marketing, finance, and even law without spending four years and a fortune on a degree. Here are seven of the best job specialties you can get into even if you’re not a college graduate:

1. Computer Programmer

A computer programmer is responsible for creating and testing code that tells computers what to do. Programmers usually have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, but you can now take coding bootcamps that will teach you the skills you need in as little as three months. There are even low-cost or free coding courses you can join online if you want to learn on your own.

2. Copywriter

The explosion of content marketing has created a demand for talented copywriters. Better yet, you don’t need a degree in literature, writing, or even advertising to get hired for both full-time and freelance copywriting positions. All you need is a knack for writing catchy headlines and persuasive copy. 

To increase your chances of landing a copywriting job, consider taking on some freelance projects and building up a portfolio of your best work. Creating a portfolio website is also a great way to showcase your skills and attract clients.

3. Phlebotomist

A phlebotomist is a healthcare professional who draws blood from patients for diagnostic testing. The job requires a certificate that can take as little as four to six weeks to earn. And while you’ll need to complete an internship or externship, many employers are willing to train entry-level phlebotomists without college degrees. Like most jobs on this list, most employers look at how well you perform during the hiring process and on-the-job training when making decisions about advancement.

4. Dental Hygienist

Another healthcare specialty that doesn’t require a college degree is dental hygiene. Dental hygienists clean patients’ teeth and provide educational resources on proper oral care. They’re in great demand and can earn a comfortable salary without a four-year degree.

To qualify for dental hygiene programs, you’ll need to have completed high school and taken certain science courses like biology and chemistry. And while most states require dental hygienists to be licensed, you can usually get the required training in as little as two years and most importantly, without a formal college degree. On top of that, you’ll often be able to get hired as a dental hygienist while working towards your license.

5. Paralegal

Interested in a law career but not necessarily as a lawyer? Consider becoming a paralegal. Paralegals provide support to lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents, and handling administrative tasks. They also need to have a strong understanding of the law, which can be gained through paralegal studies programs or even on-the-job training under a competent lawyer.

While a bachelor’s degree can increase your chances of getting hired, it’s not a strict requirement. You can find many paralegal programs that only require a high school diploma or equivalent. What’s more important for this position is that you have strong research, writing, and organizational skills.

6. Web Developer

With businesses moving more of their operations online, the demand for web developers has never been higher. Web developers create and maintain websites and web applications. It’s a highly technical job that’s also incredibly well-paid, since not everyone has aptitude and grit to learn to code.

You don’t need a college degree to become a web developer. However, you will need to have strong coding skills. Like computer programming, you can learn the basics of coding through a coding bootcamp or online course.

7. Electrician

As an electrician, you will be responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems. Electricians usually need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an apprenticeship program that lasts anywhere from three to five years.

While an electrician apprentice needs a high school diploma, many programs now accept candidates with a GED. And while the apprenticeship program is technically a form of post-secondary education, it’s not college. So, you can become an electrician without ever setting foot on a college campus.

These are just a few of the many great careers you can pursue without a college degree. As long as you’re willing to put in the time and effort to learn new skills, you’ll find that most employers now value what you can do more than what’s on your college transcript.