32 Highest Paying Jobs You Don’t Need a Degree For

There’s the promise of new exciting experiences, personal growth and freedom after completing your 4-year degree in a reputable university. But what if you never went to university, never experienced the stress and struggles of campus life, tight deadlines, tough assignments, late nights fueled by coffee and always nearing exams.

You were a brilliant high school student but due to limited finances or other personal circumstances didn’t have the luxury of enjoying freedom and chasing dreams at a college campus. The good news is that you can still make a career with a high-paying job and earn as much as a lucrative six-figure sum. Also, not having a university degree may come in as a blessing in disguise because in this perpetually evolving landscape traditional qualifications can become irrelevant or even potentially obsolete in some cases leaving space for new knowledge and more technical skills. Here are 16 top-paying jobs that don’t require any degree.

16 High Paying Jobs that Don’t Require a University Degree

 Here are some otherhigh paying jobs that don’t require a university degree:

1. Airline and Commercial Pilot

Average salary: $148,900

Estimated Job growth (2022-2032): 4%

Commercial pilots are responsible for operating and piloting aircraft for commercial purposes. Authorized to fly various aircrafts such as planes and helicopters, commercial pilots may also be deployed to spray crops, to fight fire (aerial firefighting) and flying private trips. You can apply for an aviation pilot job if you have an associate degree, got trained at a vocational school, completed flying hours at a flying school. Having done that, you must also meet the Federal Aviation Administration requirements and pass and get any necessary certifications required for the role.

2. Entrepreneur

Average salary: $77,379 (as per indeed)

Entrepreneurship is the most obvious option when it comes to the highest paying job that doesn't require a degree. It may require more than 40 hours per week of work with extensive planning, grit, research and tenacity. But bear in mind that your hard work will pay off eventually. Even with a low start-up capital it is possible to generate a handsome income up to $500k in some business ideas. So, don’t get limited by your qualifications if you have the guts to go out there and try something risky. Remember successful entrepreneurs often fail at several ideas before eventually succeeding.

3. Executive Assistant

Average salary: $60,000 - $100,000

You can earn lucrative salaries by assisting chief executives. An executive assistant plays a vital role in supporting senior executives by managing schedules, organizing meetings, and handling communications. They often prepare reports, coordinate travel arrangements, and serve as a liaison between the executive and other team members.

However, getting a highest paying job without a degree is not as easy as it seems. In order to land an executive assistant job, you would need, painstaking organizational skills, clear business communication, proficiency in word processing, and hands-on experience with other office automation tools.  Strong organizational and multitasking skills are essential, along with discretion and professionalism. Salaries for executive assistants can range from $60,000 to over $100,000, depending on experience and industry.

4. Software Developer

Average salary: $76, 113

Software development has vast earning potential among different white color jobs.  While having a bachelor’s degree in computer science, it is always possible to secure a software development job without a degree.

 A software developer without a degree can build a successful career by leveraging coding skills and practical experience. They design, develop, and maintain software applications, often collaborating with teams to troubleshoot issues and implement new features. Many developers enhance their skills through coding bootcamps, online courses, or self-study. Technology is fast paced so it is necessary to evolve with it. With experience, salaries can reach $100,000 or more, especially in high-demand tech fields.

5. Digital Marketing and SEO Executive

Average salary: $71,765

Digital marketing and a multitude of SEO jobs over the past decade have taken over the IT market and promoted some of the highest paid unique tradesmen and tradeswomen in the field. Digital marketing leads and SEO specialists are responsible for increasing a brand’s visibility online. They are typically tasked to develop marketing strategies that include inbound and outbound marketing campaigns, lead generation and other digital advertising responsibilities. The vast market of the Digital marketing jobs includes both in house jobs (at corporate offices, startups and software development agencies) and also specialized agencies that are involved in external client work.

While you don’t necessarily need a college degree to secure an SEO job, you do need to have a track record of published work or your portfolio showcasing your implementation of a variety of digital marketing campaigns. Remember that the industry values practical knowledge and adaptability, making it accessible to anyone willing to invest in self-education.

6. Project Manager

Average salary: $89,407/annum

Landing a Project Manager role without a degree is achievable through practical experience and strong leadership skills. Responsibilities include planning, executing, and overseeing projects to ensure they meet deadlines and budgets. With certifications like PMP and proven project successes, professionals can secure high-paying positions in various industries. The growing demand for skilled managers makes this a promising path for career growth without formal education. Earning potential on average for Project managers is $89,407 but depending on your skills you can fetch as much as $158,512 per annum.

7. Real estate Agent

Average earning potential: $197,304/annum

Securing a real estate job without a degree is feasible by leveraging strong sales skills and gaining relevant certifications. Real estate agents in the US are required to complete pre-license training and pass the real estate license exam before getting their license and starting their career.

Responsibilities include property listings, client interactions, and negotiating deals. Many real estate agents earn lucrative commissions, with potential for high earnings based on performance and market conditions. The industry's flexible entry requirements and demand for skilled professionals offer promising career prospects for those with practical experience and dedication. Moreover, setting realistic expectations, building a solid network and targeting a specific niche in the beginning are some good ways to get your foot in the Real estate job market.

8. Sales Director

Average earnings/annum: $189,596 (Glassdoor)

Getting your hands on a Sales Director position without a university or college degree is achievable through extensive industry experience, a strong track record of sales achievements, and exceptional leadership skills.

Responsibilities typically include strategizing sales plans, managing sales teams, and driving revenue growth. While salaries vary, a sales Director can expect to earn between $80,000 and $195,669 annually, with potential for bonuses based on performance. Career prospects remain robust for those who demonstrate proven results and effective management capabilities, offering opportunities for advancement into higher executive roles.

9. Information Security Analyst

Annual base salary: $112,000

Landing an Information Security Analyst role without a university degree is possible through relevant certifications, hands-on experience, and a solid understanding of cybersecurity practices. Information security analysts are hired by companies to protect their sensitive data from being breached, stolen or damaged by cyber-attacks. You can always apply to security analyst positions without a BS in Computer Science.  You can get enrolled in cyber security courses right after finishing high school.

Key responsibilities include monitoring security systems, responding to breaches, and implementing security measures. Salaries for this role typically range from $60,000 to $100,000 per year, with potential for growth as experience and skills develop. Career prospects are strong, with opportunities for advancement into more specialized or managerial positions in the cybersecurity field.

10. E-Commerce Manager

Average salary: $81,142 (as per indeed)

Ecommerce has changed the way we shop and now more and more companies are looking for e-commerce specialists to take care of their online sales. Ecommerce managers are responsible for a company’s online store operations, optimizing product listings, building promotional calendars, running digital advertising campaigns and analyzing sales metrics to assess and improve performance.

Salaries typically range from $65,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience and company size. With a strong performance track record, prospects for career advancement include opportunities to move into senior management or specialized roles within the e-commerce sector. You can certainly enter an Ecommerce manager job without a university degree.

11. Graphic Designer

Average salary: $61,497 (Indeed)

Graphic designers are responsible for visualizing and creating graphics for videos, digital media posts, online advertisement campaigns and websites. With a robust portfolio, proficiency in design software, and a strong understanding of visual communication, a Graphic designer position is attainable and doesn’t depend on your academic background most of the time. Other responsibilities include creating visual content for various media, collaborating with clients and teams, and ensuring design consistency across projects.

Salaries typically range from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, with variations based on experience and location. Career prospects are promising, with opportunities to advance into senior designer roles or specialize in areas like UX/UI or art direction.

12. Copywriter – Learn to Write, Write to Earn

Annual base salary: $66,261 (Indeed)

Copywriters write, edit, proofread and publish compelling web and social media content. If you have a creative bent, and excellent command over language feel free to apply for copy and content writing positions. Responsibilities include crafting engaging copy and content for advertisements, websites, and marketing materials, as well as collaborating with clients to refine messaging.

Generally, Copywriters work with designers, PR specialists and other marketing professionals such as SEOs and Ecommerce managers to create a variety of content. With demonstrated skill and experience, career prospects include opportunities for advancement into senior copywriting roles or specialized fields like content strategy and editorial direction.

13. Photographer 

Average salary: $50,152

If you have a penchant for photography and you have decent equipment then the role of photographer should be perfect for you. All you need is an eye for detail coupled with some imagination and creativity and it has nothing to do with your educational background. As a shutterbug, you choose your strong suit in any niche of photography, i.e., wedding, concert, event, sports or stock photography to name a few and can begin your click work.

However, if you strive for excellence and want to enhance your skills with lenses, you can attend special programs and courses where they learn about composition and retouching as well as other elements crucial for high-definition photographs and videos. Average salaries for photographers fall between $62,000 and $82,000

14. Flight Attendant – Fly a lot, Earn a lot

Annual base salary: $40,033

Flight attendants make up an essential part of the cabin crew and passenger board. Responding to passenger questions, and assisting them midflight are their key responsibilities. The Flight attendant job is one of the highest paying jobs without a degree for women. You don’t need postsecondary education and a high school diploma or GED will do the work.

However, Flight attendants need to take a training course provided by the airline company before starting their job. Also, they would need to have a certificate issued by the FAA. Making an average salary of $62,000 per annum, the average salary of Flight attendants is $40,000. If you are not a degree holder but have good communications skills and are good looking, this job is tailored made for you.

15. Chef – Manage recipes, make money

Average estimated salary: $61, 000

Chefs are head cooks that are involved in food perpetration in hotels, food chains and restaurants etc. They supervise recipes, issue directions to kitchen staff and guide them with all the culinary work. While landing this managerial role, Chefs may have some postsecondary education but they typically need a high school diploma or equal qualification. Some may receive formal culinary education while others may utilize the acquired knowledge via internship or apprenticeship before wearing an apron and chef cap.

So, landing a chef job without a formal degree is increasingly possible, as many employers prioritize experience and skills over educational credentials. Entry-level positions can start around $30,000 annually, while experienced chefs can earn between $50,000 and $70,000, depending on location and expertise.

The culinary industry is growing, with opportunities in restaurants, catering, and food innovation projected to increase. As the demand for diverse cuisines and sustainable practices rises, aspiring chefs can carve out successful careers through hard work and creativity. The job outlook is also positive for the chefs with a projected growth of 5% in the next ten years.

16. Makeup Artist

Average estimated salary: $73,729 (United States)

Some may think of Makeup as only strictly linked to beauty salons but makeup artists make an integral part of theater staff and other segments of the entertainment industry. If you are seeking a high paying job without a degree, theatrical makeup is a good option for. Apart from being well compensated the makeup artists develop strong connections with artists and celebrities.

A makeup artist is responsible for applying cosmetics and enhancing clients' features for various occasions for a specific period in a specific setting, ensuring a polished and professional look. They also stay updated on beauty trends, techniques, and product knowledge to provide tailored services.

People working as makeup artists can on an average make about $60,000 annually with experienced artists making ever more. Already a billion-dollar economy, the Makeup industry is expected to flourish fast and artists' jobs are expected to grow in the upcoming years.

16 Additional Jobs that Don’t Require a Bachelor’s Degree

Consider these 16 additional positions linked with different hard or technical skills if you don’t have any associate degree or equivalent. Your educational credentials don’t matter for those who you have gone through continuous upskilling and being strategic with their careers.

You reached the end! Still want to explore? Here are 16 more highest paying jobs you can build your career on:

1. Air Traffic Controller

Average per annum salary: $120,000

Air traffic controllers manage the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in the skies and at airports, requiring specialized training but no degree.

2. Elevator Installer and Repairer

Average per annum salary: $80,000

These professionals install and maintain elevators, escalators, and moving walkways, often completing an apprenticeship without needing a degree.

3. Construction Manager

Average per annum salary: $95,000

Construction managers oversee building projects from start to finish, requiring experience and knowledge of the industry rather than a formal degree.

4. Radiation Therapist

Average per annum salary: $85,000

Radiation therapists work in healthcare settings, providing treatment for cancer patients, often requiring an associate degree or certification instead of a bachelor's.

5. Mining Technician

Average per annum salary: $70,000

Mining technicians assist in the extraction of minerals and resources, ensuring safety and efficiency on-site. This role typically requires training and certification, focusing on practical skills rather than a formal degree.

6. Electrician

Average per annum salary: $60,000

Electricians install and repair electrical systems, often completing apprenticeships and licensing requirements rather than pursuing a degree.

7. Plumber

Average per annum salary: $60,000

Plumbers install and repair piping systems, gaining skills through apprenticeships, and can earn high wages, especially in high-demand areas.

8. Sales Representative

Average per annum salary: $65,000

Sales representatives sell products and services across various industries, with potential for high commissions that significantly boost earnings.

9. Fitness Trainer

Average per annum salary: $50,000

Fitness trainers design workout plans and coach clients, often earning high income through personal training sessions and group classes without needing a degree.

10. Insurance Sales Agent

Average per annum salary: $65,000

Insurance agents help clients choose insurance policies, earning commissions that can lead to high salaries without a formal degree requirement.

11. Commercial Fisherman

Average per annum salary: $60,000

Commercial fishermen catch seafood for sale in various markets, often earning high wages based on the season and type of catch. This job requires physical stamina and knowledge of fishing techniques, typically gained through hands-on experience rather than formal education.

12. Firefighter

Average per annum salary: $55,000

Firefighters respond to emergencies and protect communities, typically completing training programs and certifications instead of pursuing a degree.

13. Wind Turbine Technician

Average per annum salary: $55,000

Wind turbine technicians install and maintain wind turbines, often receiving specialized training through certification programs instead of a degree.

14. Commercial Diver

Average per annum salary: $70,000

Commercial divers perform underwater tasks like inspections and repairs, earning high wages through certification and experience in the field.

15. Voiceover Artist

Average per annum salary: $50,000

Voiceover artists provide vocal talent for commercials, animations, and audiobooks, with earnings often based on experience and the number of projects completed.

16. Aircraft Mechanic

Average per annum salary: $70,000

Aircraft mechanics inspect, repair, and maintain airplanes and helicopters, ensuring they meet safety regulations. This role typically requires certification and hands-on experience rather than a formal degree, offering strong job prospects as the aviation industry continues to grow.

Conclusion

These roles offer competitive salaries and opportunities for growth, proving that a degree isn't always necessary for success. Whether you hold a traditional degree or not you can credibility without a credential. A college degree and no work experience should not be a problem when there are job markets that are full of opportunities. Getting a high paying job is very much possible nowadays if you have solid skills that have demand in the job market.