Complete Story
02/08/2016
10 best jobs that don’t require college degree
By Alexia Elejalde-Ruiz Chicago Tribune
A four-year college is not for everyone — especially given crushing levels of student debt — but finding a good-paying job is far more difficult without a bachelor’s degree.
People with only a high school diploma have more than double the unemployment rate of people with a bachelor’s degree or higher and earn half as much pay, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ recent unemployment report.
To steer high school graduates to good options, the jobs site Simply Hired has released a list called the 10 Best Jobs for 2016 That Don’t Require a College Degree.
Simply Hired took into account average salary, the number of jobs available, geographic distribution of jobs across the country, past and projected growth for the job and industry, and potential career paths.
Most of the jobs do require additional training, certifications or licenses, as noted.
1. Licensed practical nurse
Average salary: $38,776 Education: one-year certification
2. Electrician
Average salary: $44,867 Education: state-based license
3. Construction and building inspector Average salary: $49,365 Education: Some states require certification
4. Plumber Average salary: $49,574 Education: state-based license
5. Truck driver Average salary: $47,399 Education: one-year certification
6. Legal secretary Average salary: $44,441 Education: none
7. Massage therapist Average salary: $36,557 Education: training program and state-based license
8. Automotive mechanic Average salary: $30,646 Education: varies by employer
9. Phlebotomist Average salary: $28,623 Education: certification required by some states
10. Emergency dispatcher Average salary: $26,959 Education: Training program, certification required by some states
