You can earn over $50,000 a year without a college degree, according to a report by the US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some of the highest paying careers that don’t require a higher education include air traffic controller, realtor, personal trainer, computer programmer, and manual labor jobs like electricians and firefighters.
If you think there’s not much you can do without a college degree, you’re in for a surprise. A recent report released by the US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that it is possible to earn over $50,000 a year without having to go to college. Here’s a quick look at some of the highest paying careers that don’t require a higher education.
Air traffic controller. Before you get excited that controllers make over $100,000 a year, you should know that this profession is in the top 15 most stressful jobs. Air traffic controllers can start without a degree, although one is often required for career advancement.
Realtor. Much of a realtor’s salary depends on location and the average home price in the area, but even so, the national median salary for real estate agents in the US is $76,000. A series of training workshops and exams are required to become a certified broker.
Personal trainers can earn upwards of $50,000 without a college degree. Even those who work part-time can earn an average annual salary in the high $20,000s. Many personal trainers own their own businesses and earn much higher salaries than regular trainers working in a gym.
Many computer-related professions can be started without a degree, as many companies consider on-the-job training more important than formal education. Computer programmers can learn their trade by taking private certifications and earning an average of $55,000. Most database and network administrators start out this way and earn an average annual salary of $48,000.
Many of the highest paying occupations in the US involve manual labor, and most of them can be done without a college degree. Some examples include electricians and electrical equipment repair ($54,000); railroad workers ($46,000); firefighters ($48,000); auto mechanics ($37,000); and boilermakers ($43,000). Many military posts also do not require a degree. An active duty sergeant and a decade of service behind him earns about $49,000 a year.
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