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 34 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
Personal Care and Service

Childcare Workers

2025 median pay
$34,980
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-2%
Annual openings
150,300

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

Compare this career
Food Service

Dishwashers

2025 median pay
$34,810
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
-1%
Annual openings
68,900

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

Compare this career
Food Service

Bartenders

2025 median pay
$34,340
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
5%
Annual openings
121,200

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

Compare this career
Personal Care and Service

Gambling Dealers

2025 median pay
$34,320
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
3.4%
Annual openings
13,300

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

Compare this career
Sales

Cashiers

2025 median pay
$32,880
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
-6.5%
Annual openings
521,300

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

Compare this career
Personal Care and Service

Shampooers

2025 median pay
$32,600
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
5.6%
Annual openings
2,200

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

Compare this career
Personal Care and Service

Amusement and Recreation Attendants

2025 median pay
$32,150
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
3.7%
Annual openings
100,400

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

Compare this career
Food Service

Fast Food and Counter Workers

2025 median pay
$31,200
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
5.8%
Annual openings
827,400

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

Compare this career
Jump to a page

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