Best Jobs Not Requiring a Four-Year Degree for 2023
High school counselors, we at myKlovr don’t have to tell you that a four-year college isn’t in all of your students’ futures. Learners’ career aspirations may not align with a traditional liberal arts education. And that’s just fine.
But not going to college doesn’t give high school students an excuse to ignore future planning. Preparing for a career involves the same steps as preparing for college, mainly significant research and extensive self-reflection. Fortunately, many of the same tools myKlovr provides college-bound learners also apply to students preparing for a career.
As your students use myKlovr and other services to prepare for life after graduation, we want to keep you informed of some of the best jobs not requiring a four-year degree for 2023. The following careers feature a good median salary, opportunities for advancement, and many other advantages. Use the information in this article to guide your conversations with learners unsure about their post-graduation plans.
The Best Jobs for 2023
Here are some of the best jobs not requiring a four-year degree for 2023. The salary and projected growth information reflect the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Required Education: Associate degree
Median Salary: $77,810
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 9%
What They Do: Dental hygienists use the latest medical equipment to clean patients’ teeth and take x-rays. They also maintain patient documents and recommend treatment plans. A typical associate degree in dental hygiene takes three years for full-time students.
Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer
Required Education: High school diploma
Median Salary: $97,860
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 3%
What They Do: Elevators and escalator installers and repairers test new equipment, troubleshoot problems, and replace broken parts. Other responsibilities include performing routine inspections. Aspiring professionals prepare for this career by completing a multiyear apprenticeship.
Required Education: High school diploma
Median Salary: $59,380
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 14%
What They Do: Industrial machinery mechanics repair and service heavy machinery, such as packaging equipment and conveying systems. They also perform diagnostic tests and calibrate machines. A typical industrial machinery mechanic apprenticeship lasts four years.
Required Education: College certificate or diploma
Median Salary: $46,910
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 20%
What They Do: Massage therapists help patients relieve pain and stress. They speak with new clients to understand their issues and choose the right treatment options. Aspiring massage therapists must complete a state-approved program and earn a license.Â
Required Education: Associate degree
Median Salary: $56,230
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 14%
What They Do: Paralegals help lawyers in many ways, such as by performing investigations, interviewing witnesses, and writing legal documents. Typical job sites include law firms and courtrooms. Students prepare for this career by earning an associate degree in paralegal studies.
Required Education: Associate degree
Median Salary: $49,180
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 24%
What They Do: Physical therapist assistants work under licensed physical therapists. Typical responsibilities include helping patients with exercises and maintaining paperwork. A two-year associate program trains students for this career.
Required Education: Associate degree
Median Salary: $77,600
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 6%
What They Do: Registered nurses record patients’ medical histories, administer medication, and perform tests. They may specialize in one of many medical subfields, such as addiction or critical care. Recent graduates with an associate or bachelor’s in nursing must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to qualify for a license.
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installer
Required Education: High school diploma
Median Salary: $48,320
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: N/A
What They Do: Security and fire alarm systems and installers maintain essential safety equipment. The job requires them to master some electrical skills. Top-paying employers include local governments and building equipment contractors.
Required Education: High school diploma
Median Salary: $47,670
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 27%
What They Do: Solar photovoltaic installers assemble solar panels and connect them to the electrical grid. They also troubleshoot problems and perform routine maintenance. Aspiring installers with a high school diploma qualify for the profession by completing an apprenticeship or a college certificate program.
Required Education: College certificate or diploma
Median Salary: $56,260
Projected Job Growth 2021-2031: 44%
What They Do: Wind turbine technicians install and maintain wind turbine towers. The profession requires physical fitness and knowledge of electrical systems. Technical schools provide the training necessary to enter this profession.
Other Things to ConsiderÂ
Getting one of these jobs may not require a four-year degree but other forms of education and training. Options include:
- Community college certificates and diplomas
- Internships
- Apprenticeships
That’s where myKlovr comes in handy in more ways than just recommending careers aligning with your students’ interests. Learners’ action plans can help them prepare to enter these continuing education opportunities. After all, community colleges and apprenticeships require a high school diploma or GED.
Your career-bound students should also research your school’s career and technical education (CTE) classes. These classes impart vital skills and let students know what’s required to enter a career. If your school does not offer CTE, learners may take night, weekend, or summer classes at a local community or technical college.
 Final Thoughts
With myKlovr, your students can prepare for college, career, or both. We are committed to helping learners explore the best opportunities aligning with their interests. Please email us at info@myKlovr.com for more information.
We look forward to answering your questions and providing your students with industry-leading success tools.
