High-Paying Coding Jobs Without a Degree

Technology is in the center of the world today, and the demand for tech professionals has risen exponentially in the last decade. Programming careers require professionals with skills in coding and programming tools. Skills like coding and programming are in high demand, making it easier for people without a degree to thrive in the field. 

Having a solid foundation of the most popular programming languages can help you nail your coding interview and develop your career toward software development. This guide will highlight high-paying coding jobs without a degree, the skills you need, and the steps to get a job in tech and start a career in programming.

What Is Coding?

Coding encompasses many popular programming languages that allow you to communicate with computers. The code tells the computer what to do and writes instructions for specific actions. When you write code, you tell computers how to behave, work, and function. Understanding basic coding skills can help you create apps, websites, and advanced algorithms.

Some common programming languages include Python, JavaScript, and C++. For instance, with the Python programming language, each line of code gives the computer instructions. Lines of code are also called a script, and each script has a job to do. This job may involve linking to another website, displaying an image, and playing a video with sound.

What Do Coding Jobs Pay?

According to Indeed, the average salary for computer programmers is $59,143 in the United States. However, this is the figure for the more general skill. Coders who specialize in specific areas have a higher potential to earn more than the figure above. For example, Indeed also reports that the average salary for app developers is $80,037.

Another factor to note is that salary expectations may differ based on experience and job location. The type of company and role may also determine how much you can earn. However, numerous job opportunities are available if you want to dive into the tech job market. You just need to know the skills to impress your prospective employer, which we have detailed below.

What Skills Do You Need to Land a Coding Job?

Data Structures 

This skill is essential to land a coding job. Algorithms order and categorize data, but coders still need to understand how these algorithms work in detail. These data structures let coders store data in frameworks and facilitate communication between the front end users and the backend operations. A solid understanding of this concept is needed to start your career in coding.

JavaScript 

JavaScript is a vital programming skill for aspiring coders in front end and backend development. This popular programming language is one of the most straightforward skills to master and has a variety of practical uses. It is essential to learn this skill alongside CSS and HTML because they are beginner-friendly.

APIs

Application programming interface (API) skills are essential for coding jobs. APIs are part of remote servers that receive user requests and send the responses to the website and the server. As a coder, you will set up website APIs to complete users’ requests without them leaving the site. Knowing how to work with APIs will enhance the user experience. 

Git

Git is a modern version control system and is one of the most commonly used programs of its kind today. Coders use the system to track changes in the source code during the development process. Also, it eases the process of error correction because you can easily recall old versions on demand.

Communication

Communication skills are the most critical soft skills needed to land a coding job. You need to communicate with your coworkers, clients, and bosses effectively. It also helps to share your advice and ideas in project collaborations and meetings. It is also essential to explain how something works to clients or stakeholders who may not have technical skills. 

What Education Do You Need to Get a Coding Job?

Today, you can get a coding job with a high school diploma as long as you have the requisite experience to match. Some employers still require a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science. Others may require an associate degree or other learning resources. In general, many kinds of companies hire people without degrees.

The best coding bootcamps have helped make it possible for professionals to land coding jobs without having a four-year degree. You will learn marketable skills in a bootcamp program that can help you start your programming career. Many programmer jobs accept people with bootcamp education, and these online learning platforms offer a clear path to success.

Why College Is Not for Everyone

There are many reasons why college is not for everyone. One is that not all disciplines require the teaching method that colleges offer. For instance, trade schools can deliver more effective learning for some professional domains by allowing students to work with their hands and gain the experience they need to enter the workforce.

Another reason why someone might not choose college is the high cost of tuition. College is quite expensive, and most students need to take student loans to pay tuition. After graduating, they spend years paying off the debt. This makes college not worth it, especially if you can still break into the tech industry without getting a degree. 

Professionals recommend coding bootcamps for those wanting to get coding jobs without a traditional college degree. Students can learn the fundamentals of the field and gain enough experience to apply for entry-level positions. There are many education alternatives for people who don’t want to go to college.

Can a Coding Bootcamp Help Me Get a Coding Job?

Yes, a coding bootcamp can help you to get a coding job. Coding bootcamps offer software engineering, web development, and app development programs, and you can enroll if you intend to transition to any of these fields. It is just as valuable as formal schooling and is a great choice if you’re a lifelong learner who wants to learn competitive programming.

Employers often select students from coding bootcamps for a job interview because of the practical learning methods they go through. You’ll learn functional programming skills and take on real projects to add to your resume. Pair programming can also introduce you to a wide range of skills and techniques that you otherwise wouldn’t learn on your own. 

How to Get a Coding Job With a GED

Define Your Timeline

The first step to getting a coding job is defining your timeline. This helps to reflect on what you want to do before committing to it. Online school can be difficult if you don’t think about your preferred online platform and how long it will take. You can save time if you focus on projects like software applications instead of a degree.

Also, you need to consider how to balance your studies with a job and what your preferred learning method is. When you have gotten the answers to these considerations, it will help guide you on the next course of action to take.

Get Educated

If you are an independent learner, you have the option to enroll in an online course or read books to guide you through the basics of programming. Self-taught programmers can become quite successful in the tech field. However, if you prefer to learn with guidance, then you have the option of joining a coding bootcamp. 

Choose Your Specialization

The next step is to specialize. As stated earlier, specializing can increase your earning potential in the software industry. You need to research on-demand specializations and skills. Choosing a good field will also help you tailor your studies to acquire job-ready skills applicable to your specialization.

The main tracks you can consider as code include full stack development, front end development, and backend development. When you choose the most suitable one for your skills, you can feel fully prepared to learn software development and start your career.

Build Your Portfolio

Portfolios contain your best work and are attached to resumes during a job search. They simply show potential employers that you have the requisite skills and can handle specific tasks on your own. If you attended a coding bootcamp, you would have a lot of projects to add to your portfolio. 

Nonetheless, you need to continue to build personal projects to showcase your growth. You need to show prospective employers that you can create projects without the guidance of instructors. Your programming portfolio is important for any type of programmer, especially an entry-level programmer or programmer analyst.

Get Certified

Online certifications are also necessary because they help prove that you have a particular skill. It helps to get certified in in-demand languages like C++ or Java. They can come in handy when you need to negotiate better earnings. Unlike certificates, online certifications are independent and tend to be more respected among employers. 

High-Paying Coding Jobs Without a College Degree

Job	Average Salary	Outlook
Python Developer	$111,899	13%
JavaScript Developer	$107,529	13%*
Java Developer	$105,801	13%*
iOS Swift Developer	$102,850	13%*
Full Stack Developer	$102,744	13%*
Backend Web Developer	$83,770	13%*
Front End Web Developer	$79,725	13%*
Web Developer	$75,073	13%*
Computer Programmer	$65,142	-10%
Web Designer	$60,202	13%*

*Job outlook has been sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics report on web developers and digital designers.

Best Coding Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree: A Closer Look

Python Developer

Python developers are responsible for designing, coding, deploying, and debugging different backend development projects. These experts help companies develop their technological framework while handling several other tasks. Many popular sites, including public universities and social media sites, use Python developers for their apps and websites.

Developers may be required to create apps for an employer, build tools for the job, and design frameworks for code. Also, these professionals may publish new services and create websites. Python developers often work alongside other professionals like data scientists and analysts in pair programming projects. 

JavaScript Developer

JavaScript developers implement the front end logic to define the visual element’s behavior in a web application. This professional connects the graphic elements with backend services. In most cases, they work with backend developers to handle the server-side app logic.

JavaScript developers may also work with front end web developers for styling and markup or on the backend with more structural frameworks and algorithms for websites. Because of this, they need to have an interdisciplinary array of technical skills.

Java Developer

Java developers are responsible for building software and apps with Java programming language. Once they learn how to code in Java, developers collaborate with senior software engineers and developers to integrate Java into software, business applications, and websites. 

They take part in the web development lifecycle and analyze and identify issues that may arise. These experts are also responsible for developing valuable solutions, collating user requirements, quality assurance testing, and data analysis. 

iOS Swift Developer

iOS developers create apps for the Apple operating system that runs on iPads, iPhones, and iPods. Once designed, developers can display their app on Apple’s App Store for download. The role of the iOS developer includes creating iOS applications with Swift.

These professionals also maintain iOS apps by updating and debugging them, making them the first line of defense for application maintenance. They are also responsible for recognizing bottlenecks and fixing them as they arise. This developer job doesn’t require a degree in programming.

Full Stack Developer 

Full stack developers are responsible for working on both the backend and front end of a website or application. These experts are proficient in both server-side and client-side development, including frameworks and languages. They also handle network, server, and hosting environments. 

Full stack developers spend time working on different roles and are well versed in user experience and business logic. Full stack developers aren’t just restricted to development, and they can also help with consulting and guiding other software developers and technical experts.

Backend Web Developer

Backend web developers build and maintain the technology needed to manage components on the backend of a website. These components allow the client-side to exist, and their backend code makes the front end developer’s job easier. 

Backend web developers are responsible for building, maintaining, debugging, and testing the entire backend. They work on databases, core application logic, API, data, and other essential processes.  

Front End Web Developer 

Front end web developers ensure that the client-side is easily accessible by the web visitors. They handle the technology, design, and programming on the website appearance and debug the front end when needed. 

Their other roles include bringing concepts to life with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, optimizing user experience, fixing bugs, usability testing, creating tools for site improvement, and developing the user interface. They also manage the software workflow, implement designs on mobile and follow SEO best practices.

Web Developer 

Web developers are responsible for building and maintaining websites. They also handle other tasks depending on their role in the company. Web developers are typically divided into full stack, front end, and backend developers. 

These professionals build products to meet the needs of both the client and the end user. They work with other experts, stakeholders, designers, and clients to fully understand the product and how it should function. 

Computer Programmer 

Computer programmers are responsible for writing and testing code that help computers function. These experts translate designs from software engineers and software developers and create workable code. They expand or update existing programs and write code for software programs.

Computer programmers may also test programs and resolve faulty lines of code. Their main programming languages are Python and C++, though other languages like Java are often utilized online. Their role starts after they get the design specifications for a program from a software engineer.

Web Designer

Web designers are IT professionals who design the website layout and visual appearance. They also handle website usability. Web designers plan and code web pages with non-technical and technical skills to meet customers’ requirements. 

This professional is also involved in the graphical and technical parts of the website as they determine the function of the site and as well as appearance. Web designers may also need to maintain existing sites. 

Companies That Offer Entry-Level Coding Jobs

• Leidos: This American defense, information technology, aviation, and biomedical research company offers entry-level programming jobs for qualified candidates.
• Atos Syntel: This company is a global provider of integrated information technology services. The company hires entry-level programming job candidates as software engineers and other similar roles. 
• Saturn Systems: Saturn Systems is a United States-based firm that offers custom software development, staff augmentation, and quality assurance services. 
• Smoothstack: This US-based IT company hires and trains talented programmers and then deploys them to work on projects across the United States. 
• Catalyte: This company is a software engineering firm that uses artificial intelligence and data science to develop technology workforces. 

Where to Find Coding Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree

Linkedin 

LinkedIn does not only offer a social network for professionals to connect, but it is also an excellent place to find coding jobs that don’t require a degree. The platform allows employers to post their job vacancies for roles worldwide, and interested candidates can apply with ease. 

Glassdoor 

Glassdoor offers information about companies, open roles, and other vital features like employee reviews. With a bit of research, you can find entry-level coding jobs on this website and informative reviews from employees to guide your decisions.

ZipRecruiter 

ZipRecruiter lists salaries, job opportunities, and even resume templates for prospective candidates. You can register on the site and add your resume to reduce the job application process. However, note that the site lists jobs located within the United States. 

Consider a Coding Degree Later in Your Career

You do not need to forgo a degree entirely. It’s possible to get a coding degree later in your career. This way, you will have more resources to cover your education, and the process will be more straightforward. If college seems like a heavy commitment now, consider applying in a few years.

You can get an online degree in computer science or software engineering. The process is easier than ever and more affordable as well. You no longer need to be physically present on campus to get your degree. A coding bootcamp is also a great way to learn to code as a career changer.

Coding Jobs Without a Degree FAQ