There are many high-paying jobs available for those who do not have a college degree. Several six-figure jobs do not require a degree at all. While it is true that many high-paying jobs require a college education, there are still many opportunities for those who do not have a degree.
Some of the highest-paying jobs that do not require a college degree include technology sales manager, computer and information systems manager, and advertising and promotions manager. Construction manager, elevator and escalator installer, police detective, and web developer are also jobs that can pay $100,000 or more without a degree. These jobs often require specialized skills and experience, but they can be a great option for those who do not want to attend college or who cannot afford it.
Defining 6-Figure Jobs
Income Thresholds
A 6 figure job refers to a job that pays a salary of at least $100,000 per year. This threshold is often used as a benchmark for high-paying jobs. However, it’s important to note that not all 6 figure jobs are created equal. Some jobs may pay just above the $100,000 threshold, while others may pay significantly more.
Job Market Overview
In the past, most high-paying jobs required a college degree. However, in recent years, there has been a shift in the job market. Many high-paying jobs are now available to individuals without a college degree. This is due in part to the demand for skilled workers in fields such as technology, healthcare, and construction.
According to a Forbes article, some of the top 6 figure jobs that don’t require a college degree include software developer, construction manager, and dental hygienist. These jobs require specialized skills and training, but not necessarily a college degree.
Overall, the job market for 6 figure jobs without a college degree is growing. With the right skills and experience, individuals can find high-paying jobs in a variety of industries.
High Earning Trades
For those who prefer hands-on work, there are several high-earning trade jobs that don’t require a college degree. These trades often require apprenticeships or vocational training programs, but can lead to six-figure salaries.
Electricians
Electricians install and maintain electrical systems in homes, businesses, and factories. According to Money Crashers, the median salary for electricians in 2021 was $56,180, with a salary range of $37,570 to $92,690. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for electricians is strong, with a projected 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030.
Plumbers
Plumbers install and repair pipes and fixtures for water, gas, and sewage systems. The median salary for plumbers in 2021 was $56,180, with a salary range of $37,570 to $92,690, according to Money Crashers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for plumbers is also strong, with a projected 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030.
Construction Managers
Construction managers oversee construction projects, from planning to completion. They coordinate with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. According to US News, the median salary for construction managers in 2021 was $97,180, with a salary range of $57,930 to $166,430. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the job outlook for construction managers is strong, with a projected 10% job growth from 2020 to 2030.
These high-earning trades offer lucrative career paths for those who prefer hands-on work and want to avoid the cost of a college degree. With the right training and experience, individuals can earn six-figure salaries in these fields.
Technology Sector Opportunities
The technology sector offers a wealth of opportunities for individuals seeking six-figure jobs without a college degree. Here are some of the most promising job roles in this sector:
Web Developers
Web developers are responsible for designing and creating websites. They work with clients to determine their needs and then build a website that meets those needs. Web developers typically need to have skills in programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. They may also need to have knowledge of content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress or Drupal. Web developers can earn an average salary of $73,760 per year, with top earners making over $124,480 per year.
IT Managers
IT managers are responsible for overseeing the technology needs of an organization. They work with other departments to ensure that technology is being used effectively and efficiently. IT managers typically need to have experience in the technology field, as well as strong leadership and communication skills. They can earn an average salary of $146,360 per year, with top earners making over $208,000 per year.
Cybersecurity Specialists
Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks from cyber attacks. They work to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities and then implement security measures to prevent those threats from becoming a reality. Cybersecurity specialists typically need to have knowledge of programming languages such as Python or C++, as well as experience with cybersecurity tools and techniques. They can earn an average salary of $103,590 per year, with top earners making over $156,580 per year.
Overall, the technology sector offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals seeking six-figure jobs without a college degree. With the right skills and experience, individuals can find rewarding careers in web development, IT management, cybersecurity, and many other areas of technology.
Creative Professions
There are plenty of high-paying creative jobs that don’t require a college degree. These jobs require creativity, talent, and technical skills, and can be a great fit for those who are passionate about the arts and design. Here are some of the most popular creative professions that pay six figures.
Graphic Designers
Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. According to Forbes, graphic designers can earn up to $100,000 per year. To become a graphic designer, one needs to have a strong portfolio and a good understanding of design principles, typography, color theory, and software such as Adobe Creative Suite.
Multimedia Artists
Multimedia artists create animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other forms of media. They use computer software to create 2D and 3D models and animation. According to Money Crashers, multimedia artists can earn up to $115,000 per year. To become a multimedia artist, one needs to have a strong portfolio and a good understanding of animation principles, modeling, texturing, lighting, and software such as Maya, Cinema 4D, or Blender.
Writers and Authors
Writers and authors create written content for various media, such as books, magazines, blogs, and websites. They research topics and develop ideas for articles, stories, or books. According to Ken Rusk, writers and authors can earn up to $100,000 per year. To become a writer or author, one needs to have excellent writing skills, creativity, and a good understanding of the publishing industry. It’s also helpful to have a strong portfolio of published work and a network of contacts in the industry.
In conclusion, there are plenty of creative professions that pay six figures without requiring a college degree. These jobs require a combination of technical skills, creativity, and talent, and can be a great fit for those who are passionate about the arts and design.
Sales and Marketing Careers
Sales and marketing careers are a great option for those looking to earn a six-figure salary without a college degree. Here are some of the top sales and marketing careers that can help you achieve this goal:
Real Estate Brokers
Real estate brokers are responsible for managing real estate transactions, including buying, selling, and leasing properties. They earn a commission on each transaction, which can add up to a significant income. According to Forbes, the median salary for a real estate broker is $79,340 per year, with top earners making over $178,720 per year.
Sales Executives
Sales executives are responsible for selling products or services to businesses or consumers. They may work in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. According to Indeed, some of the best sales jobs without a degree include advertising sales agent, pharmaceutical sales representative, and insurance sales agent. These positions can pay anywhere from $43,670 to $111,340 per year.
Digital Marketers
Digital marketers use online channels to promote products or services. They may be responsible for social media marketing, email marketing, or search engine optimization. According to Career Karma, some of the highest-paying digital marketing jobs without a degree include digital marketing manager, e-commerce marketing manager, and social media marketing manager. These positions can pay anywhere from $70,000 to $120,000 per year.
In conclusion, sales and marketing careers offer a great opportunity to earn a six-figure salary without a college degree. With the right skills and experience, you can achieve financial success in these fields.
Healthcare and Personal Care
Healthcare is a field that offers a variety of high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. Here are some of the most popular healthcare jobs that pay six figures:
Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases and provide preventive dental care. They typically work in dental offices, and some may work in schools, public health clinics, or hospitals. According to Forbes, the average annual salary for dental hygienists is $76,220.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of the inside of the body. They work closely with physicians to diagnose medical conditions. According to Forbes, the average annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers is $69,650.
Massage Therapists
Massage therapists manipulate muscles and other soft tissues to help relieve pain and stress. They typically work in spas, wellness centers, or chiropractic offices. According to Forbes, the average annual salary for massage therapists is $47,180.
In conclusion, healthcare and personal care fields offer a variety of high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree. Dental hygienists, diagnostic medical sonographers, and massage therapists are just a few examples of these jobs.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business
Starting a business is one of the most lucrative ways to earn a six-figure income without a college degree. The key to success in entrepreneurship is identifying a need in the market and creating a product or service that solves that need.
Business Owners
Business owners can make six-figure salaries by starting their own companies in a variety of industries. For example, a skilled tradesman such as a plumber or electrician can start their own business and earn a six-figure income by providing high-quality services to clients. Additionally, a food truck operator can make a six-figure income by serving delicious food to customers in high-traffic areas.
Online Entrepreneurs
Online entrepreneurs can also make six-figure salaries by starting their businesses. E-commerce is a rapidly growing industry, and entrepreneurs can start their online stores to sell products to customers around the world. Alternatively, influencers can make six-figure incomes by creating content on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube and partnering with brands for sponsored content.
In conclusion, entrepreneurship and small business ownership are viable paths to earning a six-figure income without a college degree. By identifying a need in the market and creating a product or service that solves that need, individuals can start their businesses and achieve financial success.