Career Advice

5 Careers Options That Don't Require College Degrees

Communicated Careers 11 April, 2023

You probably heard it a million times already, you need a college degree to be successful in life. While that may hold some truth to it, it isn't entirely the case. There are tons of careers out there that don't require a college degree that can pay just as well or even better than a job that does. Today we'll be breaking down the top 5 careers that don't require a college degree; so let's get started

Real Estate Agent

A career in real estate is one that has unlimited potential with no cap on earning potential. Real estate doesn't require formal education since agents take a test for licensing. Even though there is some studying involved, it's nowhere near as intensive as 4 years of college, and the investment in time and money is a lot less. Real estate agents can earn almost $50,000 a year right out of the gate. Plus, there's plenty of room for growth as you learn more about the industry.

Personal Trainer

Another high-income skill that doesn't require a college degree is a personal trainer. The average salary for a personal trainer is around $35,000. However, personal trainers who develop a clientele and have a comprehensive knowledge of personal training can earn over $100,000 per year. There are courses that provide certification, but many gyms will take you through a training program so you can get certified in a matter of months. Plus, if you love fitness and living a healthy lifestyle, this career should be a perfect fit for you.

Social Media Manager

Living in the digital age, social media has become a crucial part of businesses worldwide. Entrepreneurs are always looking for someone who is knowledgeable in social media and can navigate various platforms. As a social media manager, you will manage the online aspects of a business while improving its online presence making it a more engaging and relevant platform. The average salary of a social media manager is $50,000, and if you work for a larger business, you can earn over six figures.

Mechanic

Mechanical positions are always in demand, especially in the transportation industry. As vehicles continually advance with new technology, there will always be a need for mechanics. You don't need a degree to become a mechanic, but you should obtain a certification after your training. A mechanic can expect to make between $30,000 to $60,000 a year, depending on the state they work in, and can be higher based on expertise areas like, such as diesel mechanics or European auto mechanics.

Freelance Writer

For people who love to write about different topics and have an interest in journalism or content creation, a career as a freelance writer may be your dream job. Although freelance writing can be competitive, it's perfect for someone who wants to work from home or set up a workstation. If you are good with time management and can produce quality work, you could bring in a comfortable salary. Freelance writers can expect to earn up to $50,000 per year, maybe more if they build an excellent reputation via readership or social media presence.

There you have it- five careers that don't require a college degree but pay well. The misconception of needing college to get a decent job is slowly fading every day. However, keep in mind like any career, these positions will require time and effort to develop a comfortable income. But it shows that there is more than one path to success, and going to college isn't for everyone. Remember, you make the career; the career doesn't make you.