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 35 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
Food Service

Cooks, Fast Food

2025 median pay
$30,890
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
0.6%
Annual openings
86,400

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

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Arts, Design, Media, and Sports

Actors

2025 median pay
—
Entry credential
Some college, no degree
2025–2035 growth
0%
Annual openings
6,300

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

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Arts, Design, Media, and Sports

Dancers

2025 median pay
—
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
2.2%
Annual openings
1,600

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

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Agriculture and Natural Resources

Fishing and Hunting Workers

2025 median pay
—
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
-4.2%
Annual openings
3,300

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

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Arts, Design, Media, and Sports

Musicians and Singers

2025 median pay
—
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
0.3%
Annual openings
17,400

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.