Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Are there high-paying jobs that don't require a college degree?

As much as I'm considering attending college, I'm also weighing the possibility of not going. What are the high-paying jobs that one can get without a college degree? I've heard about examples such as entrepreneurship and trade jobs, but are there others?

9 months ago

Certainly, there are numerous high-paying jobs that don't require a traditional college degree. It's key to remember, however, that while these jobs may not require a 4-year degree, they often require specialized training, certifications, or substantial experience. Here are a few examples:

1. Commercial Pilots: They fly aircraft for reasons other than commercial airlines, like charter flights, rescue operations, firefighting, and aerial photography. While a bachelor’s degree isn’t mandatory, they do need a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration.

2. Radiation Therapists: They administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer or other diseases. While an associate's degree is often required, a four-year degree is not.

3. Elevator Installers and Repairers: They install, fix, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts. This job mostly requires an apprenticeship, but not a degree.

4. Air Traffic Controllers: They coordinate the movement of aircraft to maintain safe distances. Although an associate's degree and completion of the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative program are usually required, a bachelor's degree isn't mandatory.

5. Real Estate Brokers: They help clients buy, sell, and rent properties. Real estate brokers must complete some real estate courses and pass a licensing exam.

6. Detectives and Criminal Investigators: While many police officers do have degrees, it's possible to rise in the ranks through experience alone.

Remember, these jobs require a high degree of commitment either through technical training, skills development, experience, or certifications. While you might skip the traditional college route, it's essential to focus on gaining the skills and knowledge needed in your chosen field. What's most important is to find something that aligns with your interests and strengths.

9 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.