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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 9 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
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair

Riggers

2025 median pay
$62,640
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
3.9%
Annual openings
1,700

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

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Food Service

Chefs and Head Cooks

2025 median pay
$62,470
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + related experience
2025–2035 growth
6.6%
Annual openings
25,200

Prior related experience: 5 years or more.

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Sales

Insurance Sales Agents

2025 median pay
$62,280
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent
2025–2035 growth
3.3%
Annual openings
43,100

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

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Office and Administration

Postal Service Clerks

2025 median pay
$62,130
Entry credential
No formal educational credential
2025–2035 growth
-0.3%
Annual openings
5,300

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

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Construction and Trades

Brickmasons and Blockmasons

2025 median pay
$62,120
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + apprenticeship
2025–2035 growth
1.1%
Annual openings
4,100

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

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Technology and Mathematics

Computer User Support Specialists

2025 median pay
$61,860
Entry credential
Some college, no degree
2025–2035 growth
-3.5%
Annual openings
39,700

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

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Construction and Trades

Sheet Metal Workers

2025 median pay
$61,800
Entry credential
High school diploma or equivalent + apprenticeship
2025–2035 growth
2.5%
Annual openings
9,800

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.