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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 11 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
Arts, Design, Media, and Sports

Broadcast Technicians

2025 median pay
$59,570
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
-3.1%
Annual openings
1,600

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

Compare this career
Public Safety

Firefighter

2025 median pay
$59,280
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award
2025–2035 growth
3.7%
Annual openings
26,800

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

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Transportation and Logistics

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity

2025 median pay
$59,050
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
4.1%
Annual openings
21,100

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

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Construction and Trades

Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers

2025 median pay
$58,970
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + apprenticeship
2025–2035 growth
-5.3%
Annual openings
1,000

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

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Public Safety

Correctional Officers and Jailers

2025 median pay
$58,940
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-7.4%
Annual openings
28,400

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

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Personal Care and Service

Embalmers

2025 median pay
$58,780
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
0.7%
Annual openings
700

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

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Production

Machinists

2025 median pay
$58,750
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
1%
Annual openings
26,100

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.