ChooseField
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 25 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
Healthcare Support

Medical Assistants

2025 median pay
$45,690
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award
2025–2035 growth
12.9%
Annual openings
109,700

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

Compare this career
Public Safety

Animal Control Workers

2025 median pay
$45,660
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
4%
Annual openings
1,500

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

Compare this career
Healthcare

Ophthalmic Medical Technicians

2025 median pay
$45,570
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award
2025–2035 growth
21.4%
Annual openings
11,800

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

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Building and Grounds

Pest Control Workers

2025 median pay
$45,250
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
5.5%
Annual openings
13,700

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

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Healthcare Support

Phlebotomists

2025 median pay
$45,230
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award
2025–2035 growth
6.8%
Annual openings
18,000

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

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Healthcare

Psychiatric Technicians

2025 median pay
$45,130
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award + related experience
2025–2035 growth
22.3%
Annual openings
17,000

Prior related experience: less than 5 years.

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Office and Administration

Office Clerks, General

2025 median pay
$45,010
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-6%
Annual openings
249,000

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

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Healthcare Support

Psychiatric Aides

2025 median pay
$44,910
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
1.9%
Annual openings
4,900

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

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Transportation and Logistics

Light Truck Drivers

2025 median pay
$44,860
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
6.3%
Annual openings
107,200

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

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Office and Administration

Customer Service Representatives

2025 median pay
$44,770
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-5.3%
Annual openings
289,500

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

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Arts, Design, Media, and Sports

Photographers

2025 median pay
$44,660
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-0.7%
Annual openings
10,700

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

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