Are you thinking about breaking into tech but worried because you don’t have a college degree? No need to fear because you are not alone. Many career changers and first-time job seekers wonder if they’ll be shut out of the industry without a diploma. The good news is that today’s tech world is built on skills, not just credentials.
In fact, computer and IT workers now earn a median annual wage of more than $100,000, which is almost double the national average.1 With the right training, certifications, or even a bootcamp, you can land roles in cybersecurity, software development, digital marketing, and more. This guide walks you through the highest-paying jobs in tech without a degree, where to learn the skills, and how to start applying with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Many high-paying tech jobs, from cybersecurity to digital marketing, can be earned without a traditional college degree.
- Employers in tech care more about skills, certifications, and experience than formal education.
- Bootcamps, online certificates, and self-directed learning provide faster, more affordable pathways into tech careers.
- Entry-level opportunities exist at major companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon for non-degree candidates.
- Tech salaries remain well above the national average, making the field attractive for career changers.
- Building both technical skills and soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving is key to success.
Best Tech Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree
The best tech jobs without a degree in 2025 include high-paying careers in cyber security specialist, development, marketing, and systems support.
| Job | Average/Median Salary | Typical Education Needed |
|---|---|---|
| DevOps Engineer | $125,908 | Skills/Certifications |
| Power Plant Operator | $103,600 | High School Diploma |
| Systems Administrator | $88,927 | Certificate/Bootcamp |
| Full Stack Developer | $123,262 | Bootcamp/Portfolio |
| Medical Sonographer | $89,340 | Associate Degree/Certificate |
| Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician | $79,830 | Associate Degree/Certificate |
| Digital Marketer | $65,418 | Skills/Portfolio |
| Network Support Specialist | $61,550 | Certificate/Bootcamp |
| Social Media Manager | $54,455 | Skills/Portfolio |
High-Paying Tech Jobs Without a College Degree: A Closer Look
These high-paying tech jobs without a degree range from DevOps engineer to software development and digital marketing.
DevOps Engineer
DevOps engineers coordinate the software development life cycle. They build and provide the infrastructure and methodologies to develop, maintain, and update applications. They also collaborate with developers and IT teams to test system performance and ensure the efficiency of software tools.
Becoming a DevOps engineer is a good option if you enjoy organizing people and tasks. You can get this job by showing off your skills instead of getting a degree. If you have software development experience, this is one of the best jobs in tech without a degree. Cloud and AWS certifications are now considered key to breaking into DevOps roles.
Power Plant Operator
It might not seem like a job in IT without a degree, but power plant operation is a very technical field. Power plant operators control and maintain the systems responsible for generating and distributing electricity from power plants to substations and to the entire nation.
Their job description includes operating turbines, identifying systems faults, and recording electricity data. Customer interaction is not required. To become a power plant operator, most people will earn a technical diploma or certificate followed by on-the-job training. The field is shrinking due to automation and renewable energy adoption.
Systems Administrator
Systems administrators, sometimes grouped with network administrators, are people who maintain software and hardware systems. This can involve cyber security, technical support, and troubleshooting. You should have strong problem-solving and organizational skills for this job.
This is one of the best programming jobs without a degree because it only requires on-the-job training and some tech experience. A coding bootcamp or diploma program is more than enough to become a systems administrator.
Full Stack Developer
Full stack developers are software developers with the technical expertise to work on the front end and backend of applications. They perform a wide range of tasks such as graphic design, UI/UX design, database management, and server development.
Full stack developers must have expert knowledge of programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, JavaScript, and CSS, to mention a few. People with these skills can also become front end developers and backend developers.
Medical Sonographer
Medical sonographers operate medical imaging equipment for testing or creating imaging of the body. These results help doctors and medical professionals diagnose patients based on the images or findings of the tests. If you’re interested in working in healthcare with tech skills, this is one of the best high-paying tech jobs without a degree.
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician
These professionals operate and maintain equipment for testing aircraft and space shuttles. They work with aerospace engineers to analyze test procedures and ensure the safe operation of aircraft systems. They also calibrate computer systems to meet testing requirements.
To get this tech job, you should have some engineering education, like a certificate or a diploma. In high school, you should also make sure you take math and science classes. If your school has any engineering or aerospace clubs, you can join those as well.
Digital Marketer
Digital marketers develop the digital marketing strategy of a company through email marketing, search engine optimization, content marketing, and social media marketing. They work to ensure that the company reaches a broad audience and gets greater exposure.
Digital marketing is a rapidly growing field and one of the highest-paying tech jobs without degrees. You can work in virtually any industry because most companies need a social media presence. This tech job also doesn’t require coding, which makes it a great option if you don’t have strong hard skills.
Network Support Specialist
Network support specialists provide network support and technical assistance to organizations and private clients. They test, evaluate, maintain, and troubleshoot computer networks to find possible problems and offer effective solutions to them.
Similar to systems administrators, network support specialists need to have good problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. They should also have some tech experience, like a certificate or diploma. Hands-on network experience can also help you get this job.
Social Media Manager
A social media manager is responsible for managing the social media presence of an organization. They operate social media channels to represent their organization’s brand and reach their target customers. With a strong portfolio, you can get a job as a social media manager without any education at all.
What Education Do You Need to Get a Tech Job?
Many tech jobs don’t require a degree, but education paths like coding bootcamps, certificates, and online programs can boost your skills.
Most job positions require candidates to possess at least a high school diploma or a GED. Some advanced positions may require candidates to have an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree.
Candidates may need to have supplemental education through coding bootcamps, trade schools, or MOOCs to develop their skills. Coding skills and network administration skills are two things that you should learn for a tech job.
Can a Coding Bootcamp Help Me Get a Tech Job?
Coding bootcamps are a fast, affordable way to gain the skills for tech jobs without a degree.
Bootcamps like Flatiron School, Springboard, and Nucamp publish transparent outcome reports that show many graduates find jobs within six months of completion.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
While bootcamps may not offer the guarantee of a job after completion, most provide career services and employer networking.
How to Get a Tech Job Without a Degree
Getting a tech job without a degree requires building skills, choosing the right training, and positioning yourself for entry-level opportunities.
Step 1: Research Educational Options
A GED opens educational pathways to different schooling options so you will be faced with a lot of choices. Coding bootcamps, trade schools, online courses, and colleges are some options you can consider to get trained.
Step 2: Choose an Education Path
Picking the right educational path for you is important to complete your program successfully. You can choose from the many options available based on your budget, time, and learning style. For example, if you have a family or are working full-time, you may want to study part-time or through a program that is self-paced.
Step 3: Obtain Technical Skills
Sign up for training and start learning. This is the part where you obtain the technical skills to qualify for tech job roles. This takes three months or more depending on your course and learning pace.
Step 4: Position Yourself for Job Roles
After training, you’ll have to position yourself for job roles by actively searching for job openings. For this, you would have to prepare a professional resume that advertises your skills and experience for the job role. Practice your resume writing skills to stand out in applications.
Step 5: Apply for Job Openings
Now that you are qualified for entry-level tech positions, look for job openings that pique your interest and apply. Be sure to cast your net wide to increase your chances of finding a job. If you studied at a coding bootcamp, take advantage of any career resources or services they offer to help you get connected with companies who hire bootcamp graduates.
What Is the Average Tech Job Salary?
The average salary for tech jobs is significantly higher than the national median wage.According to BLS, the median annual wage of workers in computer and IT management is $171,200 nationally.1 The profession is expected to grow by 15% in the next decade, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations.1
Salary Comparison: Degree vs No-Degree Tech Jobs
| Job | Salary (No Degree) | Salary (Bachelor’s) |
|---|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $99,400 | $124,910 |
| Systems Administrator | $88,927 | $96,800 |
What Skills Do You Need to Get a Job in Tech?
To land a tech job without a degree, you’ll need a mix of technical skills, digital fluency, and soft skills.
Technical Skills
Technical skills refer to the specialized knowledge and experience that you need to function effectively in your job. They are job-specific skills that relate to the practical aspect of the job. For instance, if you are looking to get a job as a software developer, then you’ll need to have expert knowledge of the use and application of programming languages.
Digital Skills
As companies continue to rely on Internet systems and digital devices to perform their day-to-day activities, employees are required to equip themselves with digital skills. Having digital skills means you have the ability to use digital devices and online applications to communicate and perform job tasks.
Analytical Skills
Analytical skills are special job skills that help you to observe, research, and find solutions to complex issues. Many employers list analytical skills as an important requirement to land tech jobs. These are some of the most important skills you need to get a job in tech. For example, a support specialist will use analytical skills to troubleshoot network issues.
Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills are job skills that help you to interact and communicate effectively with your employers and team members. It is crucial to develop strong interpersonal skills to land a job in tech. Job candidates with good interpersonal skills are seen as good team players. You will need these skills for your first tech job and any other job in the industry.
Other Soft Skills
Soft skills are as important as tech skills to get a job in tech. Many hiring managers choose not to hire qualified candidates due to a lack of soft skills. When you have the right mix of soft skills and technical skills, you are more likely to succeed in your workplace. Some soft skills include time management, conflict management, teamwork, and networking.
Where to Find Tech Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree
Job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are top places to find tech jobs without a degree.
- Indeed – Employers utilize Indeed to advertise their job openings and find new talent. Indeed posts these job vacancies and interested job seekers are able to apply.
- Glassdoor – Glassdoor was launched in 2008 with the primary mission to research salaries and company reviews. It later expanded to include job openings, benefits, and company culture information.
- LinkedIn – LinkedIn is a social networking site for working professionals. It also serves as a database platform to access job opportunities. Job seekers can sign up and create an account that doubles as a digital resume before connecting directly with recruiters and potential employers.
- Dice – Dice is one of the most popular tech-specific job boards that can help you get programmer jobs without a degree. Along with tech jobs, you can find tech-specific events in your area to help you meet new people and network in the industry.
- Otta – Otta is an international online job board that can help you find tech jobs at startups and established companies. You can find job postings at Netflix, Airbnb, Dropbox, and other companies.
Companies That Offer Entry-Level Tech Jobs
Top companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon offer entry-level tech jobs without requiring a degree.
- Revature – Revature offers a wide range of entry-level job positions for candidates who want to build a career in software development. Revature hires candidates from diverse educational backgrounds and experiences. Note: roles often operate under a contract-based model, where graduates are placed with partner employers after training.
- Google – Google is one of the biggest IT companies in the world and hires entry-level candidates in software engineering, sales, and design departments. Google also offers a special Google Career Certificate program in project management, data analytics, and UX design.
- Microsoft – Microsoft provides internships and entry-level positions for students and graduates to begin their careers. Microsoft Learn and certification programs, like the Azure Fundamentals certificate, are also pathways into tech roles.
- IBM – IBM offers numerous opportunities for entry-level candidates in areas such as data science, design, finance, marketing, and software development. IBM’s SkillsBuild program offers free, no-degree training in cybersecurity, IT support, and data analytics.
- VMware – VMware offers a 12-month research and development program that provides students with hands-on skills to begin their careers in the company.
- Amazon – Amazon’s Career Choice Program pays full tuition upfront for approved training in IT, software engineering, and related fields, making it one of the strongest employer-sponsored education benefits for non-degree workers.
- Accenture – Accenture offers a structured apprenticeship program in IT and digital roles. These apprenticeships provide paid training and direct placement into long-term roles, with no college degree required.
- Per Scholas – Per Scholas is a nonprofit training provider that partners with major employers to deliver tuition-free IT, cybersecurity, and software engineering training.
Consider a Tech Degree Later in Your Career
While you can start in tech without a degree, earning one later can increase your earning potential and promotion opportunities.
Top Certifications That Replace a Degree in 2025
Certifications in 2025 can replace a degree and open doors to careers in cybersecurity, cloud, data analytics, and project management.
- CompTIA Security+ — A widely recognized entry-level certification in cybersecurity.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate — Validates cloud infrastructure knowledge.
- Google Data Analytics Certificate — An affordable credential that prepares learners for analyst jobs.
- Cisco CCNA — A baseline certification for network support and systems administrators.
- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) — Growing in demand for project managers and agile product owners.
Tech Jobs Without a Degree FAQ
Tesla does not require a degree for some entry-level positions, though many roles prefer one. Amazon and Microsoft also provide internships and entry-level roles suitable for non-degree candidates.
Sources
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/aerospace-engineering-and-operations-technicians.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/No-Experience-Devops-Engineer-Salary#Yearly
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/power-plant-operators-distributors-and-dispatchers.htm
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Systems-Administrator-Salary
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/No-Experience-Full-Stack-Software-Developer-Salary#Yearly
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/No-Experience-Digital-Marketing-Specialist-Salary
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Entry-Level-Social-Media-Salary
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Entry-Level-Cyber-Security-Analyst-Salary
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Systems-Administrator-Salary
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
