Careers That Don't Require a College Degree

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After finishing high school, many people automatically head off to college to train for their future careers. However, there is more than one route to achieving a successful career. While some jobs will always require a college degree, there are plenty of others that don’t involve years of intense studying. If you have always dreamed of becoming a doctor or lawyer, then you will need a college degree. But, if you are unsure of which career path you would like to follow, there are plenty of options to consider that don’t require you to go to college. Not everyone is academic, and not everyone enjoys the thought of continuing to study after high school ends.

People often associate having a college degree as the key to landing a well-paid job. In some cases, this is true, but even with a college degree, there is no guarantee that you will land a high paying job. Training to become a skilled tradesperson is a career choice that is often overlooked. While working as a tradesperson may not sound as prestigious as some other job titles, you will be providing your community with an essential service, and likely to be earning a good wage in the process. 

Construction Worker
Running your own construction company is a job that requires plenty of training, but doesn’t involve spending years of your life studying at college. Instead, you should be able to earn while you learn your trade and develop your skills.

Starting your career as a laborer or helper on a construction site is a great place to start learning your trade in the construction industry. According to figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of construction laborers and helpers is expected to grow by five percent between 2019 and 2029. 

If you find that construction work is an excellent fit for you, you may want to build your career into a business and set up your own company once you have enough skills and experience.

Plumber
Working as a plumber is an excellent career choice for anyone who prefers hands-on work rather than sitting behind a desk in an office. Plumbers are always in demand, thanks to their specialist skills. From installing plumbing fittings in new build dwellings to repairing leaks and refitting bathrooms, working as a plumber is a varied job that’s sure to keep you busy and earning money in the process. 

If you are interested in starting a career as a plumber, check out this how to guide on entering the plumbing trade to get a better idea of what is involved.

Electrician
Working as an electrician is a career that is in demand. This highly-skilled job does not usually require a college degree, but you will need to complete plenty of training to gain the qualifications necessary to work as an electrician. Electricians are needed in both commercial and residential settings for wiring and other electrical installations, and some electricians specialize in one of these areas.