10 High-Paying Tech Jobs You Can Get Without a College Degree

Going to college can still have a myriad of benefits, but let’s face the facts: the market and professional landscape are changing rapidly. Today, some of the most sought-after employers and companies require experience in the field, versatility, and originality over a degree. A candidate that created his or her own educational or professional path can often be just as valuable if not more so than a college graduate. 

The job market has also changed, opening up opportunities in the technological sectors that not only don’t require a degree but are also some of the highest-paid professions out there. Looking for a change? re:WORK is here to help!

Web Developer

Web Developers are the professionals responsible for creating the visual style of websites. However, depending on the field of expertise, they might also take charge of the technical aspects of building a website. Some candidates hold a degree in computer science, but most employers base their decision on skills and experience instead. Web developers must have strong foundations for some programming languages, including CSS, HTML, or Javascript–all applications that can be self-taught.

Average salary: $59,514

Graphic Designer

If you want to explore your creative side, becoming a graphic designer can be an excellent option. While some still create illustrations and fonts by hand, these professionals are responsible for creating designs and layouts to communicate a particular product or service. Obtaining a degree in this field is not essential, especially if you have a portfolio to show. In terms of the daily tasks of a graphic designer, these will be agreed between you and your employer and can change from project to project.

Average salary: $45,261

Mobile App Developer

The popularity of this job is rising rapidly, and securing your place in such a job market can be life-changing. An increasing number of businesses and companies require apps to support their websites and online presence. In some cases, such apps can help the business streamline relationships and communication processes with their audience. Among the responsibilities of a Mobile App Developer are coding, debugging, and testing new apps. There are several reasons we could list about why skills and experience are valued more than a degree in this field, but the most obvious is that app developing is still a relatively new career path. However, sector growth over the next ten years is predicted at around 30%.

Average salary: $69,478

System Analyst

If you are known for your analytical eye, this is the job for you. System analysts leverage the power of IT to diagnose the current status of the business and plan future moves. Such systems are also essential to understand the changes needed within a company and how to implement them. While you won’t need a degree to access an entry-level position, rest assured that the increasing market competition has made System Analysts a hot commodity. In turn, this has opened up new opportunities for career advancement for professionals in the field. 

Average salary: $65,917

Junior Data Analyst

While still in expansion, this sector is predicted to continue rising in future years, and at an alarming rate! Data is what successful companies feed on to understand their consumers, craft ad hoc marketing campaigns, and ultimately design products that appeal to a particular audience. The sector offers such attractive opportunities that even entry-level positions boast impressive salaries. Among their responsibilities, Data Analysts will organize, analyze, and interpret data sets. Requirements to access these jobs depend on the employer – some might require a bachelor’s degree, but there are many who don’t.

Average salary: $48,927

Digital Marketer

If you are interested in marketing and it’s unique challenges, this is one of the best careers to undertake. Digital Marketing is the primary channel for companies to reach out to customers and other businesses. Aside from being familiar with SEO and SEM techniques, you will need to be creative, innovative and ready to adapt! Tested skills in content and email marketing is a huge plus, and experience in the field will often override degrees. Utilizing your unique point of view and making the most of your personal experiences is crucial. Often Digital Marketers will choose to specialize in a specific area of this field.

Average salary: $49,970

Cybersecurity Analysts

Cybersecurity is an essential yet extremely complex sector that offers brilliant opportunities for most candidates. Most of the ones who decided to undertake a 4-year degree in this subject would have applied directly for higher-level positions, creating a gap at the beginning of the ladder. However, even entry-level jobs in the field are high-paying and extremely sought-after! These won’t require you to hold a degree and offer you attractive career advancement opportunities.

Average salary: $62,000 (average, entry-level positions)

Multimedia Artist

If you want to find a more profitable career that does not require you to leave your art behind, becoming a Multimedia Artist could be a viable option. These experts often develop animations and effects through the use of several programs. Electronic media today is taking over the traditional way of creating art, and can usually be found in adverts and video games. While some candidates have a bachelor’s degree, it is not required. 

Average salary: $52,115

Software Engineer

Software engineers are in charge of designing, developing, installing, and testing software. Some specialize in an area of this sector since the field is vast and expanding. However, just like in the case of web development, software engineering is still a self-taught skillset. There are only a few related courses that can benefit candidates. While it might change in the future, professional experience is valued as much as a degree today.

Average salary: $75,000 (entry-level)

Computer Support Specialist

More businesses and entrepreneurs rely on technology, software, and apps to run their business smoothly. Like everyone else, they also have to deal with technological issues, some minor, some that can bring their work to a grinding halt. A computer support specialist or technician allows employers and consumers to breathe easy by keeping their systems and operations running smoothly. 

Average salary: $47,033

Conclusion

Some jobs in the tech sector do require a bachelor’s degree. However, most of them don’t, and this industry is growing and diversifying rapidly.  Securing one of the above positions for yourself will allow you to build your experience and eventually move onto bigger and better things. Are you ready for a new career? Start with re:work training!