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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 3 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
Production

Gas Plant Operators

2025 median pay
$87,820
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-6%
Annual openings
1,400

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

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Installation, Maintenance, and Repair

Avionics Technicians

2025 median pay
$82,280
Entry credential
Postsecondary nondegree award
2025–2035 growth
9.4%
Annual openings
1,700

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

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Healthcare

Respiratory Therapists

2025 median pay
$82,280
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
8.5%
Annual openings
8,600

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

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Transportation and Logistics

Locomotive Engineers

2025 median pay
$81,410
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + related experience
2025–2035 growth
0.5%
Annual openings
2,000

Prior related experience: less than 5 years.

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Healthcare

Radiologic Technologist

2025 median pay
$80,110
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
5%
Annual openings
13,000

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

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Management

Funeral Home Managers

2025 median pay
$78,790
Entry credential
Associate's degree + related experience
2025–2035 growth
4.1%
Annual openings
2,600

Prior related experience: less than 5 years.

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