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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 13 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

Bridge and Lock Tenders

2025 median pay
$57,700
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-2.3%
Annual openings
300

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

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Construction and Trades

Plasterers and Stucco Masons

2025 median pay
$57,660
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
2.8%
Annual openings
1,500

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

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Construction and Trades

Glaziers

2025 median pay
$57,080
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + apprenticeship
2025–2035 growth
1.9%
Annual openings
3,900

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

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Transportation and Logistics

Airfield Operations Specialists

2025 median pay
$56,850
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
7.8%
Annual openings
1,500

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

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Public Safety

Bailiffs

2025 median pay
$56,600
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-1.9%
Annual openings
1,600

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

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Production

Model Makers, Wood

2025 median pay
$56,550
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-3.3%
Annual openings
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.