If you’d rather not spend years in college but prefer to train and work, you’re in luck. There are plenty of jobs that require advanced training for those without a college degree.
These include positions open to those with only a high school diploma as well as careers that require some postsecondary education and training.
The fun part of it, however, is that these jobs are the most wanted in the job market today.
Jobs With Advanced Training without a college degree
Below are jobs that require advanced training without any college degree.
- Computer security analyst
- Database Manager
- Computer Programmer
- Network and computer system administrator
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
- Radiologic Technician
- Service Delivery Analyst
- Computer Support Specialist
- Tool-and-Die Maker
- Pharmacy Technician
1. Computer Security Analyst
A computer security analyst also known as an information security analyst helps protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.
Some employers want analysts with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and sometimes they even want candidates with also a master’s degree in information systems.
However, some companies are emphasizing skills in computer science, programming, and IT security over a specific degree.
A computer security analyst earns an average of $99,730 annually.
Read also: Highest Paying Summer Jobs for College Students
2. Database Manager
A database manager sometimes also called a database administrator is someone who stores and organizes data using specialized software. He or she makes sure that data is, therefore, secure and available to the people who need access to it.
This job is experiencing a faster-than-average growth rate, with the average salary at $93,750 per year.
3. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers create, write, and, also test code that allows computer programs and applications to function. They typically need to know a variety of computer languages, including Java and C++.
While many computer programmers do have a bachelor’s degree, some only need an associate degree or extensive experience in coding. Programmers can also become certified in specific programming languages, so these certificates can also help a job candidate get hired.
Another option is to get the skills you need to get hired by attending a Boot Camp.
The median pay for a computer programmer is $86,550.
4. Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Network and computer systems administrators install and operate computer systems for companies. Because almost every industry has network and computer systems, these administrators work in every field, from IT to finance to education.
While some network and computer systems administrator jobs require a bachelor’s degree, more and more job openings require only a postsecondary certificate and strong computer skills.
The average salary for this position is $83,510 per year.
5. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Also known as an ultrasound technician, a diagnostic medical sonographer works under the direction of a physician to produce ultrasound images for patients. Medical sonographers also work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, medical centers, and laboratories.
Read also: Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs in Energy | 2022
While some people have a bachelor’s degree in sonography, there are also associate degrees and one-year certificate programs.
This job is experiencing much faster than average (14%) job growth. Medical sonographers earn, on average, $68,750 per year.
6. Radiologic Technician
Also known as radiographers, radiologic technicians perform X-rays and other diagnostic imaging on patients. They work under physicians, taking images requested by physicians, and helping physicians evaluate images.
They work in hospitals, physician’s offices, laboratories, and outpatient care centers.
Most radiologic technicians have an associate degree in MRI or radiologic technology. These programs typically take 18 months to two years to complete. There are also certificate programs that take one to two years.
This job is experiencing faster-than-average job growth. Radiologic technicians earn, on average, $62,280 per year.
7. Service Delivery Analyst
A service delivery analyst ensures that clients receive high-quality service. He or she analyzes how services are being delivered, and how they can be improved. He or she typically uses software to track the quality and efficiency of the user’s experience.
While the requirements of service delivery analyst jobs vary by industry, the analyst generally needs strong computer skills.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Service Delivery Analyst is $56,433.
Read also: 10 Highest Paying Supply Chain Jobs in the World
8. Computer Support Specialist
A computer support specialist provides help for people and companies with their computer equipment and/or software. They might help IT, employees, within an organization, or help non-IT users with their computer problems. They help people in person, over the phone, or online.
Computer support specialists generally do not need a college degree. Instead, they need computer knowledge, as well as communication and people skills.
Often, they need to have taken a couple of computer or IT courses or have an associate degree. Some companies require their computer support specialists to go through a certification program.
This job is experiencing a faster-than-average growth rate. A computer support specialist earns an average of $54,760 per year.
9. Tool-and-Die Maker
tool-and-die makers are a type of machinist that sets up and operates various mechanically and machine-controlled tools used to produce tools needed for the manufacturing process.
These workers can learn through apprenticeship programs, vocational schools, technical colleges, or on-the-job training. If the job involves computer-controlled machinery, a tool-and-die maker might need more IT coursework or IT experience.
tool-and-die maker positions are among the higher-paying manufacturing employee positions. The median pay for this position is $45,750 per year.
10. Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician assists pharmacists with dispensing medications to customers and/or health professionals. Most of them work in pharmacies and drug stores, but others work at hospitals or in private practices.
Because most pharmacy technicians learn through on-the-job training, a four-year degree is generally not required.
Many vocational/technical schools offer programs in pharmacy technology, some of which award students with a certificate after a year or less.
Read also: Highest Paying Jobs in the UK without Degree
This job is experiencing a faster-than-average growth rate, with the average salary at $33,950 (2019) per year.
Conclusion
Companies no longer care about degrees as experience determines results more. So if you can’t pursue a degree, it’s still possible to get employed.