Top 20 Jobs That Don't Require College Degree

Looking for a great job with a good salary that does not require a college education? There are jobs out there if you don't have a four-year degree.

CareerCast.com recently identified 20 careers that provide a good living with just a high school education. The listed careers may require some training, but not a four-year degree.

“Even with a college degree, finding a good job in today’s economy is hard and can be very time consuming. Although those with degrees often earn more money, you can still earn a very good living without one,” stated Tony Lee, publisher of CareerCast.com, in a press release.

Though college-educated workers tend to earn more on average -- $1 million more during his or her career -- college is not practical for everyone. With a four-year degree from a public university or college costing an average of over $50,000, many may choose to pursue other training.

“Most of the top-20 non-degreed jobs do require some sort of formal training, but at a much smaller investment level than a college degree,” explained Lee. “If you want to earn a lot of money without a college degree, take a look at the amount of training you’ll need, then focus on a job that can still provide a satisfying, comfortable career.”

CareerCast.com’s 20 Great Jobs Without a College Degree: 

1. Dental Hygienist - Average Starting Salary: $45,000
2. Online Sales Manager - Average Starting Salary: $40,000
3. Web Developer - Average Starting Salary: $43,000
4. Medical Secretary - Average Starting Salary: $21,000
5. Paralegal Assistant - Average Starting Salary: $29,000
6. Stenographer/Court Reporter - Average Starting Salary: $26,000
7. Heating/Refrigeration Mechanic - Average Starting Salary: $26,000
8. Surveyor - Average Starting Salary: $31,000
9. Executive Assistant - Average Starting Salary: $29,000
10. Insurance Agent - Average Starting Salary: $26,000
11. Industrial Machine Repairer - Average Starting Salary: $30,000 
12. Cosmetologist - Average Starting Salary: $16,000
13. Hair Stylist - Average Starting Salary: $16,000
14. Tax Examiner/Collector - Average Starting Salary: $30,000
15. Sales Representative (Wholesale) - Average Starting Salary: $27,000
16. Construction Machinery Operator - Average Starting Salary: $26,000
17. Electrical Technician - Average Starting Salary: $34,000
18. Architectural Drafter - Average Starting Salary: $30,000
19. Teacher's Aide - Average Starting Salary: $17,000
20. Sewage Plant Operator - Average Starting Salary: $25,000

For more information, read CareerCast.com’s full report, 20 Great Jobs Without a College Degree.