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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 16 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
Office and Administration

Cargo and Freight Agents

2025 median pay
$52,260
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
6.2%
Annual openings
9,000

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

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Construction and Trades

Paperhangers

2025 median pay
$52,140
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
4.3%
Annual openings
200

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

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Science

Food Science Technicians

2025 median pay
$52,130
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
4.8%
Annual openings
3,000

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

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Agriculture and Natural Resources

Fallers

2025 median pay
$52,100
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-9.9%
Annual openings
500

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

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Community and Social Service

Community Health Workers

2025 median pay
$51,850
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
12.7%
Annual openings
7,000

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

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Production

Pourers and Casters, Metal

2025 median pay
$51,810
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-5%
Annual openings
400

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

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Transportation and Logistics

Sailors and Marine Oilers

2025 median pay
$51,520
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
3.2%
Annual openings
3,600

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

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Installation, Maintenance, and Repair

Locksmiths and Safe Repairers

2025 median pay
$51,320
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-11.7%
Annual openings
1,200

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.