Jobs after high school without college. 8% of workers with some college, and 12.
Jobs after high school without college. News 100 Best Jobs ranking.
Jobs after high school without college Employees who have only graduated high school tend to be more vulnerable when economic recessions or layoffs occur. Remember, this decision is highly personal and there is no 'one-size-fits-all' answer. Learning about some good-paying jobs that require a high school diploma can help you plan your future career path. The following are high-paying and also in demand. Jun 7, 2023 · College isn’t necessary for every career path, and jobs that pay $100K a year without a degree are more common than you think. Question: What information do you have on the employment rates of young adults? Response: This Fast Fact examines recent trends in the employment rate. However, there are many paths that can lead to a happy and meaningful life. Trade work: Vocational fields like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work require specialized training, usually through an apprenticeship, rather than a traditional college degree. Consulting: Leveraging Experience If you have deep industry experience (marketing, HR 4 days ago · The unemployment rate was 18. Students work 10 to 15 hours a week while attending classes at a work college to pay off their tuition. Nov 11, 2024 · A power plant operation is a highly technical job — it doesn’t require education beyond your high school diploma. I’ve been seeing these YouTube videos where a guy goes asking college grads at their graduation what jobs they have lined up and they are all 70k-100k jobs right out of Let’s face it, students who’ve never worked before are at a major disadvantage. 7 percent for recent high school dropouts and 12. If you are looking for a career option that does not require more than a high school diploma, explore this article for 21 jobs that might be a good fit. The ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP) is a FREE career planning resource available to high schools nationwide. After all, a university diploma is not an exclusive prerogative for a successful career. 2% of high school grads were unemployed. Apr 11, 2023 · Is it the best option to get a job right after high school ends? Deciding whether to get a job immediately after high school or pursue further education is a significant choice that depends on various factors, including individual circumstances, career goals, financial considerations, and personal aspirations. Most police and Dec 31, 2024 · "Some students have no desire to pursue a four-year college education but recognize that the opportunity to pursue high-paying careers still exists with alternative routes," Monica Jones, a Jun 1, 2022 · While employment rates increased between 2010 and 2019 for those with some college but no degree (from 73 to 80%) and for those who’d completed high school (from 68 to 74%), those gains were Nov 2, 2023 · “We need a way to be able to align skills and interests of our young people with what the world needs,” ASA CEO Jean Eddy says. Jan 31, 2018 · The largest share of the working/not-in-school group (nearly half, or 42 percent) has only a high school diploma; another ten percent has less than a high school education. citizenship is not required to take these Oct 4, 2021 · In 1975 only 20% of graduating High School Seniors went on to college. There many careers where you can make a good living without a 4-year college degree. Workers who adapt quickly to new challenges will thrive and enjoy their careers. Get a summer job; Create a summer reading list Aug 18, 2024 · Many high school graduates are going straight into the job market considering many open positions do not require a bachelor’s degree. Mar 26, 2025 · Read more: Top 15 Trade School Jobs 4. college education, trade school can be a quick and cost Nov 21, 2023 · Jumping directly into the workforce after high school can help you build professional experience and lay the foundation for a career. Jan 11, 2024 · Hello Skylah! Great question. Limited Earning Potential. I graduated with my BS in Business Admin degree from a reputable school in my area. Now, let’s get into different options for life after high school! 1. Feb 3, 2025 · Working with top college admissions consulting firms can help you navigate applications, essays, and financial aid to improve your chances of getting into your dream college without unnecessary stress. S. Four-Year College Degree Four-year college degrees cover just about every field of specialized knowledge you can think of, and there are plenty of career-specific courses too. Find high-growth careers, jobs without degrees, resume tips, and pathways to long-term success. Keep in mind that many of these jobs do require some training after high school, just not at a college or university. HEALTH CARE CAREERS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL 1. The estimated growth rate for this industry is 6%. Ranked among the Best Jobs Without A University Degree In Canada 2025, this field offers a variety of tasks and steady demand. 8% of workers with some college, and 12. Share. College degrees are required for certain types of jobs, and college can be a place to explore career paths, build connections, and learn about yourself. Sep 2, 2024 · 14 High Paying Jobs ($100k+) Without a College Degree. Feb 14, 2024 · After graduating from high school, you may have the option to study abroad instead of going to a local college. The unemployment rate for people with some college or associate degree was 3. Apr 8, 2025 · To prove that college isn’t the only or even the best path for everyone, here’s a list of 25 high-paying jobs, listed from lowest to highest pay, that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. Tips for getting a job after high school. The need: The rising cost of higher education presents challenges to high schoolers looking at opportunities after high school; many students and their families do not see a return on investment in paying for a college degree, Eddy says. Jun 10, 2023 · Working directly after high school can provide individuals with the flexibility to balance their work and educational pursuits more effectively. Learn more about the 80 jobs that pay well without a degree and their projected job growth over the next ten years. But it's important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Mar 26, 2025 · Entry-level jobs for after college When looking for a job after college, consider jobs within your area of study. Nov 5, 2024 · When deciding on a job after high school, consider factors like: - Salaries and benefits - Opportunities for career advancement - Training and development opportunities - Personal passion and interest - The necessity of additional certifications - Work-life balance - Location Remember, what you choose to do immediately after high school isn't a Jan 28, 2025 · Jobs that require more experience and specialized skills tend to pay more. Jan 28, 2025 · 15 school jobs that don't require a degree Here is a list of school jobs that don't require a degree: 1. Nov 5, 2024 · You definitely have a lot of options if you decide not to attend college immediately after high school. Oct 3, 2024 · Recent high school graduates not enrolled in college in October 2023 were more than twice as likely to be in the labor force as graduates enrolled in college (71. Mar 29, 2023 · We asked parents to share the terrific careers without college they or their adult children found, and here is what they told us. Their unemployment rate is 4. To develop this ranking, our editors consulted the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to identify the high-paying jobs without a degree, limiting our search to jobs with a median annual wage of over $59,000 per year Nov 26, 2024 · If you’re a high school student who needs a more individualized approach to schooling, contact us to speak with someone who can help you navigate the enrollment process by calling (888) 995-7143. Retail is a good place to start looking for a job after high school Dec 28, 2024 · Direct Answers: What to Do After High School without College? If you’re considering skipping college, there are several alternatives to consider: Apprenticeships and Vocational Training : Many industries, such as construction, IT, and healthcare, offer apprenticeships and vocational training programs that can provide on-the-job training and Apr 10, 2025 · Start your own business. ) 25 Jobs That Don’t Require College 25. In this article, we take a look at career paths that don’t require a college degree to get started and that you can pursue right after high school. Others require certification to advance in the role. 7% versus 32. If you’re not sure where to start on your journey after high school, keep reading goal-friends! Personal goals for after high school . Construction and building inspectors verify that construction projects meet local codes, zoning rules, and safety standards. 9 million) or in college (11. 6. Dec 16, 2021 · As college costs continue to outstrip real wage growth, many students are considering alternatives to a four-year college education. All Youth Enrolled in High School or College (Ages 16 to 24) In October 2024, 21. U. 5 percent of youth, were enrolled in high school (9. This comprehensive program includes one of the most widely used multiple-aptitude test batteries in the world and an interest inventory complemented by a thorough occupational database all designed to give students an in-depth look at the world of work. Traveling exposes you to new cultures, broadens your perspective, and Apr 18, 2025 · During the recession between Dec. (By the way, that doesn’t mean they don’t require education—just not a four-year degree. Nov 15, 2024 · However, it may limit your job prospects and earning potential in the longer term since many higher-paying jobs require a college education. One of the most in-demand health care career, primary care paramedics, are needed all over Canada. So I just graduated at the end of August and have been applying to jobs like crazy since. Retail Jobs . Popular industries for recent grads include hospitality, construction, manufacturing and warehousing, as these industries struggled to regain workers after the COVID-19 pandemic. Nov 26, 2024 · The freelance market is packed with jobs perfect for high school graduates and women starting out. Embarking on a journey abroad after high school can be a transformative experience. Upon graduation from college only 20% will use that degree. Smart job seekers are discovering careers where non-degree workers are out-earning peers with college degrees. He cleared $100k within 2 years and eclipsed the $200k mark before age 30. New school year, old story: Education pays September 2012; High wages after high school—without a bachelor’s degree June 2012; Charting the projections: 2010-20 December 2011; Paving the occupational path: A new system for assigning education and training September 2011; Finishing high school leads to better employment prospects June 2011 Apr 9, 2025 · Number of jobs (2023): 796,800; Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 4%; Educational requirements: High school diploma at minimum, though some roles require a college degree. May 23, 2024 · As of 2023, 69% of young women with a high school education were in the labor force, as were 78% of young women with some college education. Oct 27, 2024 · It’s one of the best options after high school if you’re eager to start earning. Upon graduation from college, approx. Those with less than a high school diploma had a similar unemployment rate, 4. 4%). Feb 25, 2025 · Many certificate programs are designed for people with a high school diploma seeking training to land an entry-level job. Completely did my best (Sergeant within 4 years, 2 deployments, and well liked with the people I worked and for with), drank the kool-aid, but without sacrificing my ideals. The ones you do find are going to be HIGHLY sought after or are going to be undesirable. I had extracurriculars (band and musical theatre) and I babysat my little sister a fair bit while my parents worked. You don’t need to commute and can work from anywhere–coffee shop, dorm, or any place with Wi-Fi. By March 2022, the unemployment rate had nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels for college graduates (2%) while dropping to 3% among those with some college education but no four-year degree, and 4% Graduated high school, went straight into pole climbing school, and got his cdl. Full-Time Job – Gain Experience & Save Money Source: Youtube/Screenshot, ATC requires breaks every 90–120 minutes for safety. Graduation means freedom from classwork, exams, teachers, and extracurricular activities. Apr 29, 2022 · Whatever your reason for starting work after high school, the secret to success is a strong resume and a good work ethic. 8 percent. Here are a few: - Air traffic controller: While this job does require technical training and passing multiple Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams, it does not require a traditional college degree. , coding boot camps, niche theater schools, athletic programs. Nov 21, 2024 · Meanwhile, more organizations, nonprofit training programs and states are focusing on providing training and pathways for those without college degrees. You may also pursue some additional education, such as relevant certifications, to qualify for available job openings with this title. Plus, you’ll likely land a well-paying job right after Nov 5, 2024 · Job stability may also be potentially less without a college degree. For some, pursuing higher education at a university or college can provide valuable knowledge, skills, and a pathway to career opportunities. Expect to pay $1,000 to $5,000 or more to complete a certificate program For example, workers with a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $1,305 in 2020, compared with $781 for workers with a high school diploma. Typically, a high school diploma and experience in a construction trade are enough to get started. It’s easier than ever to begin a new business out of your home. g. Mar 3, 2025 · To become a senior real estate manager without a college degree, you can typically gain experience in entry-level positions and work your way up to this job with a high median salary. This is especially so if you have a special interest or passion, e. Consider your skills. Jan 15, 2025 · 26. One of the most significant drawbacks of starting work directly after high school is the potential for limited earning potential. Here are 24 jobs you can get after college graduation with little to no The report, “Launchpad Jobs: Achieving Career and Economic Success Without a Degree” – commissioned by ASA, and conducted by BGI – explores the entry-level jobs commonly filled by those without degrees and provides recommendations on how to bridge the information gap in order to ensure that all young people are aware of the breadth of Feb 14, 2023 · People are going to college without a plan, without a career in mind, because the mindset in high school is just, 'Go to college. Online English teacher National average salary: $46,335 per year Primary duties: Online English teachers instruct students how to write, speak and interpret the English language via video calls, websites or other applications. Certain roles may list multiple majors that are relevant to the job. Oct 24, 2022 · Debating about going to college? Well, before you make a decision checkout my list of the top 10 highest paying jobs that anyone can do without a college deg education levels—some college but no degree and less than a high school diploma—are not included in this article because so few of them had high wages. Nov 8, 2023 · There are plenty of good jobs that don’t require a degree yet offer high pay and strong job growth. Opportunities created by employment growth are only part of the outlook picture. ' "It's not that finding a job in the trades, or even manufacturing Dec 18, 2024 · Go to college; Save cash; Attend a trade school; Learn a language; Get fit; Study abroad; Join the military; Write a novel; Get a job; What to do after high school: 14 options Travel abroad. Today’s level of labor force participation for young women without a college degree is slightly lower than the level seen around 2000. 2 It is important to note that the Apr 18, 2024 · Many of these jobs provide employees with on-the-job training and do not require specialized skill sets or college education. 2007 and Jan. Employers want people with experience so you should jump on the chance to start working even if you’re only doing an entry-level job! Job Options for High School Students . Career preparation should start in high school, but it shouldn’t end with graduation: Most occupations require some type of training or education after high school. The type of work you do and the skills you provide determine whether you'll need college-level courses after high school in this field, but many jobs don't require them. What Is the Highest-Paying Job Without a Degree? The highest-paying job without a degree is that of a commercial pilot, which was found to have a median annual wage of $121,430. What are you good at? Mar 11, 2023 · In Tennessee, education officials issued a “call to action” after finding just 53 percent of public high school graduates were enrolling in college in 2021, far below the national average. Create your own path in life by starting your own small business. However, if you want to progress to higher education, you can also choose to pursue your chosen track and enroll in a college degree program. 1 The employment rate (also known as the employment-to-population ratio) is the percentage of persons in the civilian noninstitutionalized population who are employed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupation Finder, roughly a quarter of all professions do not require a degree and have median salaries above $40K, which is above the US Census’ per capita personal income of $37,638. On-the-job training, apprenticeships, certificates, non-degree awards, and various levels of college degrees are typically required for entry-level jobs. 5 percent, compared with 9. In 2010 approx. Primary Care Paramedic. 10. Some may require a diploma or associate degree, while others can be started with a short-term certification. Some people Feb 17, 2025 · A high school diploma suffices, with many employers offering on-the-job training to sharpen your skill set. Trade schools are also more affordable than the typical four-year degree, with tuition often ranging from $3,600 to $16,000 in total, compared to the $30,000 per year you’d pay at many universities. This can help narrow down your job search and find you more worthwhile opportunities in your area and industry. Want to get a job after high school? Here are our top tips to help you get hired. To get started, write a business plan, name your business, and get your federal and state IDs. Those with a bachelor’s degree or higher had the lowest unemployment rate at 2. Feb 7, 2024 · Trade schools are here for those seeking a quicker pathway to high-paying jobs—without the high price tag of a four-year degree. A high school diploma equivalent would do for some, while others may require certain certifications. Salesperson Nov 9, 2024 · These 14 careers after high school are among the best available. Before you start your job search, think about your skills. 2 You're not going to find many jobs that "pay well" with just a high school diploma. Methodology. Online jobs are often a great fit for college students, as many come with the opportunity to gain real-world skills without having to work around the schedule of a traditional nine-to-five employer. Some students take time off after high school in what's called a gap year. Some require some training and certification. Trades: A lot of jobs in the trades don't require a college degree and they pay quite well. Many trade schools and colleges offer short career programs that can prepare you for a professional role that pays well. Traditional College or University Feb 27, 2025 · If you're interested in entering a career straight out of high school, without pursuing a college degree or vocational certificate, the construction and trade industries offer plenty of opportunities that will offer employment without any higher education. Below is a list of 75 jobs teens and young adults can pursue without a college degree. College doesn't necessarily have to be a thing, but you are going to need something beyond a high school diploma to live decently. Note that some of Oct 21, 2024 · Is it possible to get a job that pays well without spending four or more years at a traditional college or university? The answer is yes. Enroll in a work college If tuition is an obstacle to attending college, a work college may offer a solution. Didn't graduate with my original High School Class, went to continuation High School to be accepted by the Marines. 5 percent. Here are the different options for life after high school. Apr 18, 2024 · High school graduates can pursue careers in various industries, such as sales, construction and hospitality, without earning a college degree. getty. Kevin Stitt had announced a new program that would require the state's high school students to have an acceptance offer The shocking truth is that, nowadays, a degree is not necessary to get a lucrative job. About 5 percent of high school graduates Apr 18, 2024 · 24 entry-level jobs for college grads Now that you know how best to find a job with no experience, it's time to consider positions you may find interesting. 0 percent for recent graduates enrolled in college. There are numerous types of formal study options besides college. And the unemployment rate for bachelor’s-level workers was 5. Goals after high school should also focus on personal growth and education. Another drawback is a likely lower earning potential. On average, individuals with a college degree tend to earn more than those without. But, not everybody wants to go to college. Let's discuss some, keeping in mind these jobs can vary in terms of availability and entry requirements. 5 and/or above) Dec 30, 2022 · Continuing your studies after high school is one of the most common options, but college is just one kind of education you can choose from. Oct 1, 2024 · You might even consider taking a gap year after high school to explore opportunities like internships or part-time jobs. You’re gone from home a lot and subjected to furloughs, job bumps due to seniority, and you’ll have to be on call 24/7 for anywhere between 1-10 years in the beginning. In today's society, earning a college degree often seems like the expected route to take after high school. Check out our 40 top career choices below, and present them to your daughter or son. Employees who attended some college classes but never graduated Dec 30, 2024 · This job can be desirable for those who enjoy working to build and maintain computer networks and systems. Mar 3, 2025 · A college degree is an asset, but it takes several years, plus a significant amount of money for tuition costs. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email. Getting creative with these types of experiences can help you better understand the day-to-day work in different industries as you build confidence in your abilities. Additionally, without the credentials a degree provides, progressing or switching careers might be more challenging. Employment rates of young adults. Education: High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; Years of experience: None; Median income: $80,850; Projected job openings Any adult who has not received a high school diploma in the United States can earn their high school equivalency diploma by sitting for a high school equivalency exam such as the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC), or General Equivalency Diploma (GED). He was still 18 when he started working as a groundsman, he was earning mid $30s an hr. 7 million 16- to 24-year-olds, or 55. There’s also a common belief that a traditional four-year college is the only career path after high school. 75 million, and jobs requiring a high-school degree or less fell by 5. 8% of college grads, 10. Baker 4 days ago · What Is the Best Choice After High School? The best choice after high school varies for each individual, contingent on their aspirations, academic performance, and practical circumstances. 4 Jan 2, 2017 · In 2015, the percentage of full-time year-round workers age 35 to 44 earning $100,000 or more ranged from 2% of those without a high school diploma and 5% of high school graduates to 25% of those whose highest attainment was a bachelor’s degree and 38% of advanced degree holders. Most of the occupations in the tables that follow typically require at least a high school diploma to enter; specific outlook and wages vary. Many companies offer tuition assistance programs or flexible scheduling options that allow employees to attend classes or complete online coursework without compromising their job responsibilities. Top entry-level jobs without college degree requirements Dec 31, 2024 · In late December 2024, social media users shared a rumor that Oklahoma Gov. Sales representative National average salary: $76,774 per year Job outlook: 2%, slower than average Primary duties: A sales representative generates sales leads, sets sales goals, negotiates contracts with clients, maintains client records, acts as the point of contact for clients, prepares and submits sales contracts for orders and makes regular reports. 7/4 (include if 3. Sep 19, 2024 · There are quite a few rewarding career paths you can take directly out of high school without needing a college degree. Mar 9, 2022 · In February 2022, the unemployment rate for people 25 years and older who were high school graduates with no college was 4. Dec 11, 2024 · Teaching at a public school generally requires a four-year degree eventually, but getting started in the career doesn't always require immediate enrollment in college after high school. What if people had to work for ten years after high Except for the summer I ran my mom’s daycare, I didn’t start working until after high school. The job I had after high school to save for college (I took a year long certificate program) isn’t even on my resume anymore. What Can I Do After High School Besides College? After high school, you can choose from a variety of different paths that may be a better fit for students who aren't interested in going to college. Dec 7, 2024 · High-paying jobs don't always require a college degree. Feb 24, 2025 · To find the best career options for those without a degree, we filtered jobs that do not require a college degree and ranked them based on the U. Dec 11, 2023 · The average annual salary of people with a high school diploma is $38,792. This often results in smaller tuition payments, if any at all. 3 percent. Without a college degree, individuals may find themselves in lower-paying jobs with fewer opportunities for advancement. 1. Gap years can be good for Jan 2, 2025 · Estimated job growth (2023–2033): 0%; Job responsibilities for construction and building inspectors. 70% of graduating High School Seniors at least attempt College. The median salary is quite high and the job growth rate is expected to be up to par with other industries. According to BLS data, more than two-thirds of jobs are in occupations that don’t typically require a college degree. Mar 11, 2024 · Setting career goals after high school will help you stay ahead of the curve. Click on the image to view full size. Today, there is a long list of paying jobs without a degree, and we And as expected of the new K-12 program, senior high school graduates like you can now apply for jobs right after receiving your SHS diploma. 6 million. . Above, we mentioned that the estimated cost of being in college for four years is $142,880. Travel abroad. 2010 jobs requiring college degrees grew by 187,000, while jobs requiring some college or an associate’s degree fell by 1. Instead, the skills needed to be successful in this position are taught on the job. The choice between going to college or getting a job is highly personal and depends on your career goals, financial situation and personal circumstances. 8 million). 0 percent for those whose highest level of education was a high school diploma. I got very lucky with my job position but many railroaders aren’t so lucky. We’re going to look at 18 good careers that don’t require college education (including some that pay $100,000 and above with just a high school diploma). For many young people with learning and thinking differences, high school may be a struggle. Aug 16, 2024 · Start an online job for a successful career path. News 100 Best Jobs ranking. Mar 3, 2025 · Dozens of high-paying jobs are available for high school graduates without a four-year college degree — and there’s an increasing need for all of the positions on this list. Car and truck mechanics Safety Feb 18, 2025 · Explore job options, requirements, and resources for post-HS grads. Sep 1, 2024 · Cons Of Beginning Work Directly After High School 1. Computer/Information Technology Trades such as plumbing, welding, electrician, etc. This article focuses on high-earning occupations at three education levels below the bachelor’s degree: • Associate’s degree • Postsecondary non-degree award • High school diploma Feb 24, 2025 · After high school, many students choose to go on to college or university. Here are the best jobs that don’t require college… 1. Many entry-level job postings for college graduates will list which majors a company prefers candidates to have for this role. I have no college degree and make $90k/year after one year as a freight conductor. Many of these jobs offer high-paying salaries above the national average. Mar 18, 2025 · Your high school name, city, and state – For example: Chicago Vocational High School, Chicago, IL Graduation date – For example: December, 2026 GPA (if relevant and strong) – For example, 3. Related: 5 Trade School Programs To Pursue Without a High School Diploma What fields should I apply in? Some career fields that offer employment without a high school diploma include: Restaurant service; Construction; Delivery; Automotive maintenance; Customer service; A Mar 3, 2025 · Employees with a high school diploma but no college education Employees who graduated high school but did not attend any form of higher education can expect to earn $712 per week or $37,024 per year if they work constantly. Here are some of the more common ones: 1. 70% used that degree to secure employment. 3) Jun 12, 2024 · 1. (Figure 2. In fact, a survey from ECMC Group showed that only 48% of high school students are planning to pursue a bachelor's degree after graduation. Doing the math, you would be making more than that amount in four years if you applied for a job after high school instead of attending college. 6%. It can be the opportune time in your life to see the world you have spent so much time Apr 12, 2022 · By June 2020, after the pandemic hit, 6. azufbg xmhowx lmqvd znx fgp mjayxm mjzrb pldbmdso vafs jbtd alzqe zdyqy xlfv dciywl hqf