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ChooseField guide

Careers without a four-year degree

These careers have a documented route below a bachelor's degree. Some require years of apprenticeship, licensing, or experience in another occupation. A degree alternative does not establish a quick route into the job.

This filter excludes careers whose prior experience requirements are unknown. Education, training, licensing, and employer requirements still apply.

414 careers · Sorted by median pay · Page 1 of 35

Best careers in this collection

Balanced ranking: 40% pay, 30% projected growth, 30% annual openings. Check the work and entry route for fit.

See the full ranking and methodology
Transportation and Logistics

Air Traffic Controller

2025 median pay
$148,080
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
1.7%
Annual openings
2,100

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Transportation and Logistics

Commercial Pilots

2025 median pay
$123,220
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award
2025–2035 growth
5.2%
Annual openings
5,200

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Production

Nuclear Power Reactor Operators

2025 median pay
$122,890
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-5.9%
Annual openings
400

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Science

Nuclear Technicians

2025 median pay
$110,240
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
1.1%
Annual openings
900

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Healthcare

Radiation Therapists

2025 median pay
$105,310
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
2.8%
Annual openings
700

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Production

Power Plant Operators

2025 median pay
$102,040
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-5.1%
Annual openings
2,300

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Healthcare

Dental Hygienist

2025 median pay
$98,100
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
8%
Annual openings
15,000

No prior related occupation is typically required; employer requirements vary.

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Annual openings include growth and replacement hiring. Open a career guide for source dates, training details, and occupation-specific evidence.