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)

What high-paying jobs can you get with just a high school education?

I'm starting to explore different career paths and I'm wondering about high-paying jobs that don't require college. Are there any industries where a high school diploma is enough to earn good money?

a year ago

Certainly, there are a number of career paths that offer high-paying jobs even without a college degree. Here are a few examples:

1. Transportation/Logistics Manager: These professionals oversee the allocation and shipping of goods in various industries. Pay varies, but highly experienced managers can earn a significant income.

2. Commercial Pilot: While airline pilots typically require further education, commercial pilots for local and regional flights often need only a high school diploma along with their pilot's license.

3. Power Plant Operators: This role involves controlling the systems that generate and distribute electric power. Companies usually provide on-the-job-training.

4. Elevator Installers and Repairers: This occupation requires a high school diploma, and most workers learn their trade by completing an apprenticeship.

5. Postmasters and Mail Superintendents: Although it may require several years of work experience in a related occupation, the job involves coordinating and determining operational and administrative policies in post offices.

6. Detectives and Criminal Investigators: These are typically positions within the police force that require a number of years of experience in law enforcement, but a high school diploma is often the minimum education requirement.

7. Nuclear power reactor operators: These individuals operate or control nuclear reactors, and they do all the necessary checking and testing to ensure the safe running of the nuclear plant.

While we've listed a handful of opportunity, you will otherwise find many in the healthcare industry, manufacturing, Web development, and more. Many of these sectors offer apprenticeships or on-the-job-training programs that enable you to gain the relevant skills needed for the specific role.

a year 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.