Highest Paying Jobs Without A 4-Year College Degree


Highest Paying Jobs Without A 4-Year College Degree

Is it possible to obtain a high paying job without having to spend 4 years or more at a traditional college in the U.S.? The answer is yes. Although there are ways to save money on college, many people are opting out for Plan B: skipping the longer path of a 4 year college degree and still wind up with a high paying position.

Plan B

Without obtaining a bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.), Plan B students are still able to earn more money than many four year college graduates. Many four year college graduates have difficulty finding a job, some individuals who major in fields such as humanities make less money than their peers, and many students obtaining degrees in math, engineering, science or technology are not employed in the fields they studied in college.

So what is Plan B? Plan B students take programs in a trade or vocational school. These schools focus on putting their students on a more defined track to succeed in the job market. Many of the high paying entry level jobs can be attained in two years or less.trade school

Technical vs. Vocational Schools

Technical schools teach the “science” behind the occupation, while vocational schools focus on hands-on application of skills needed to do the job. You may earn a diploma or a certificate, prepare for a licensing exam, or study to begin work as an apprentice or journeyman in a skilled trade.Vocational training

Careers To Consider

For many of the following careers, a two year associate’s degree (A.A.) is required. And for some of them, a high school (H.S.) diploma or certificate is enough to get you started. Check with your state government for any specific requirements.

Note: Salary and job growth data shown below is taken from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2014. The projected job growth percent change is from 2014 to 2024. The salary is dependent on many factors including experience, demand, what part of the U.S. you are employed, and whether you work in the private or public sector.

Click on the next page to view our list of careers to consider

Registered Nurse -An RN provides and coordinates patient care in hospitals, doctor offices, and nursing facilities.
Degree: A.A.
Median pay: $66,640
Top pay: $96,320 or more
Job growth: 16%

Dental Hygienist -Cleaning teeth, inspecting mouths for signs of disease, and educating patients about proper oral care.
Degree: A.A.
Median pay: $71,520
Top pay: $96,690 or more
Job growth: 19%

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, Cardiovascular Technician, Vascular Technologist – healthcare technician that use an ultrasound machine to help diagnose a patient’s ailment, or provide assistance during surgery for heart related conditions.
Degree: A.A.
Median pay: $62,540
Top pay: $92,070
Job growth: 24%

Respiratory Therapist– Healthcare technician to help patients breathe effectively. Work in hospitals, doctor offices, clinics to assist people with asthma and other respiratory ailments.
Degree: A.A.
Median pay: $56,730
Top pay: $76,750
Job growth: 12%

Web Developer– Building websites requires a lot of technical skills, but not necessarily very much schooling, especially if you have the ability to teach yourself.
Degree: A.A.
Median pay: $63,490
Top pay: $110,350
Job growth: 27%

Electrician – Some vocational schooling is required and a short apprenticeship is required. Troubleshoot, and Wire buildings for electrical power and communications.
Degree: H.S. diploma and apprenticeship
Median pay: $51,110
Top pay: $83,860
Job growth: 14 percent

Plumber – After taking a trade school program and an apprenticeship, begin specializing in installing and repairing pipes and related equipment.
Degree: H.S. diploma and apprenticeship
Median pay: $50,660
Top pay: $86,120
Job growth: 12%

Heavy Equipment Operator – Control big construction machinery used for building roads or major structures.
Degree: H.S. diploma
Median pay: $42,900
Top pay: $73,890
Job growth: 10%

Commercial Diver – Work underwater in special scuba gear to help build, repair, or remove large structures or equipment.
Median pay: $58,640
Top pay: $94,640 or more
Job growth: 29%

Commercial Pilot – Other than flying for a commercial airlines, a college degree is not required to fly charter airplanes, or doing aerial photography. A pilot will need certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which can be prepared for at an aviation school that offers short pilot training.
Median pay: $74,470
Top pay: $136,890
Job growth: 10%

Looking for a specific high paying job?

Check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook. Details, level of education required, on-the job training requirements, projected number of new jobs, projected growth rate, and median pay.

Looking for Federal Student Aid?

Check out the U.S. Department of Education Federal Student Aid Program

Happy job hunting!