This perspective may be encouraging to many job-seekers: You don’t have to earn a college degree in order to have a successful career. Although some people believe that a college degree is necessary to be successful in the workforce, this is not always true.
A college degree is not necessary to have a fulfilling career.
According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is clear that research continues to prove that the “more you learn, the higher your earnings.”
The agency found that those with higher education are less likely to be out of work.
You don’t need a college degree to get a job. Many jobs don’t require a degree. In many cases employers will give a lot of weight to experience and offer on-the job training.
Tips to Get a Job without a College Degree
Earning certifications
To increase your chances of success, you might consider vocational or other specialized training, whether it’s at a trade school or through a training program. These credentials may be relevant to your field of interest. It is worth researching. These credentials may prove just as valuable depending on your field of study as a degree.
Understanding Your Career Aptitude
FlexJobs gives its members access to over 170 skills tests that help them assess their professional strengths and abilities and guide them to the right job opportunities. Find your strengths and find a career that reflects your natural talents.
Training for the Job
You might consider looking for a job that allows you to learn new skills or improve your existing ones. A job at an entry level can be a great way for you to learn as you go in your career. However, just landing a job does not guarantee your growth. It is important to actively seek out learning and training opportunities.
Find Internships and Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering or taking on an adult internship can provide valuable experience. Experience is essential in some areas. It is a fact that being able show examples from your portfolio that showcase your expertise and demonstrate your value can prove to be extremely valuable.
Take Online Courses
A few online courses can help you in your job search, even if you don’t have a college degree. You can find free courses at many universities, as well as a range of learning platforms such Udemy, Coursera and LinkedIn Learning. FlexJobs members have free access to our Learning Center, which offers video courses.
Find a mentor
Mentors in the field of career can offer valuable advice and help you connect with others. Mentors can help you identify areas that need improvement and help you plan your career.
Use Networking
It’s important to know who your connections are when it comes time to find a job. Referring to someone working at the company can help you rise to the top, regardless of your degree. Use your network to make connections and find people. Schedule informational interviews to find out more about your career path and get honest feedback.
Flexible Careers Without College: There are many options
FlexJobs makes it easy to find a job that doesn’t require you to have a college degree. You can search for keywords such as “diploma”, “entry-level,” or “some college” to find the right keyword to match your situation. Below is a selection of jobs that you will find in our database, but which don’t usually require college education.
Administrative
Administrative Assistant. Many administrative assistant positions require candidates to have a high school diploma. Common duties include answering emails, maintaining digital files and organizing meetings.
Data Entry. Data Entry. This is a great career option if you are a skilled typist and tech-savvy. Data entry professionals often work remotely to enter and evaluate data into computer systems.
Accounting and Finance
Bookkeeper. Bookkeepers are responsible for maintaining an organization’s general leadger. They record transactions, produce financial statements and verify financial records for accuracy. Also consider stock trading for long and short term income.
Accounting Clerk. Accounting clerks typically require at least one year of experience. They will process accounts payable and receivable and compile reports and reconcile bank deposits.
Computer and IT
Tech Support Specialist. A technical support position requires a strong understanding of networking and computers. You will be responsible for troubleshooting, creating work order, and updating computers.
IT Project Coordinator. Project coordinators monitor progress of projects, provide technical support, and collaborate with other technology teams.
Insurance
Claims representative. A claims representative will review and investigate claims and determine fair compensation for customers. They also negotiate settlements and authorize payments.
Insurance Sales Agent. Insurance agents help enroll customers by finding leads, providing quotes, following up with prospects and answering questions.
Medical and health
Medical coder. Medical coders input data to determine codes and discrepancies. Usually, AAPC and AHIMA certification are required. This is one of the most popular jobs in the future that doesn’t require a degree.
Pharmacy Technician. Pharmacy Technician/Coordinator: This person will review prescription requests and fill them, interact with members, approve authorizations and much more. It is possible that a pharmacy license is required.
Mortgage and Real Estate
Property Claims Adjuster. This job requires onsite and virtual inspections of damage and documentation of claims. This job requires both a diploma and some experience.
Mortgage Underwriter. Mortgage Underwriters usually analyze and evaluate all aspects borrowers’ credit, underwrite mortgage loans and process customer information.
Sales
Sales Representative. Sales representatives need to be able to build relationships, sell, and develop leads. Because of its upward mobility, this is one the most popular careers.
Sales Director. A director-level position is available for sales professionals with 5-10 years’ experience. This role typically involves developing account plans, supporting clients, converting sales and managing a sales team.
Travel and Hospitality
Agent for Travel. Agents work with clients to make changes to their schedules and book flights, hotels, rental cars, vacation packages, as well as booking airfares, hotels, rental car, and vacation packages.
A ticketing consultant. Ticketing consultants help with ticket processing, providing instructions to travelers and keeping up to date on all developments.
