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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 7 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
Transportation and Logistics

Crane and Tower Operators

2025 median pay
$68,080
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + related experience
2025–2035 growth
3.8%
Annual openings
3,500

Prior related experience: less than 5 years.

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Installation, Maintenance, and Repair

Rail Car Repairers

2025 median pay
$67,530
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
2.6%
Annual openings
1,600

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

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Arts, Design, Media, and Sports

Athletes and Sports Competitors

2025 median pay
$66,710
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
5.5%
Annual openings
2,200

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

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Engineering and Architecture

Architectural and Civil Drafters

2025 median pay
$66,150
Entry credential
Associate's degree
2025–2035 growth
5.2%
Annual openings
9,100

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

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Office and Administration

Brokerage Clerks

2025 median pay
$65,750
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
-7.6%
Annual openings
3,400

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

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Installation, Maintenance, and Repair

Millwrights

2025 median pay
$65,700
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + apprenticeship
2025–2035 growth
0.9%
Annual openings
3,200

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

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Healthcare

Hearing Aid Specialists

2025 median pay
$65,160
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
19.4%
Annual openings
900

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.