3 Tech Jobs Without a Degree

Those who’ve joined the workforce in the past 20 years may feel caught in an economic Catch-22. Many high-paying jobs demand a college degree—but the growing cost of an education has left prospective students wondering how to obtain a rewarding career without the financial burden.

However, there’s some bright news for today’s job seekers and job changers. A look at the variety of occupations reveals that many tech jobs don’t require a degree but still offer both high salaries and plenty of opportunities for career advancement.

Examples of Tech Jobs Without Degree Requirements

There are high-paying roles that prioritize candidates with practical skills, industry certifications, and portfolios rather than requiring a traditional degree. According to Indeed, some of the tech jobs that don’t need degrees include:

Computer Programmer

Think of an app or a program as being like a car. While software developers design the body, computer programmers create what’s under the hood. Programmers write the code that powers the application’s functions. They also test code, fix errors, and update code in existing programs. In the U.S., the average salary for a computer programmer is $53,919 per year (Indeed).

Junior Data Analyst

In the information age, data is the lifeblood of businesses. Organizations collect vast amounts of information on everything from online activities and shopping to health. But to make sense of it and put it to practical use, they need data analysts.

These workers use statistical software to analyze large datasets. They may design algorithms and predictive models to make forecasts based on those datasets. The average annual salary for a junior data analyst in the U.S. is $59,438 per year, reports Indeed.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Approximately $10.5 trillion will be spent annually on cybercrime by 2025, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. To counter those threats, firms are beefing up their digital defenses by hiring more cybersecurity professionals. The BLS lists information security analyst as one of the 20 fastest-growing professions, projecting the field to add 33% more jobs between 2020 and 2030. In the U.S., cybersecurity analysts earn an average of $102,351 per year, according to Indeed.

Mobile Developer

A mobile developer designs, builds, and maintains applications for smartphones and tablets. To build user-friendly, high-performance applications, they specialize in platforms, like iOS and Android. They also use programming languages, including Swift, Kotlin, and React Native. Indeed reports that a web developer's average annual salary in the United States is $128,291.

UX Designer

The goal of UX (User Experience) designers is to enhance the usability, accessibility, and interaction of digital products to increase user satisfaction. In order to ensure seamless and engaging user experiences, they conduct research, create wireframes, and test designs. The average salary for a UX designer in the U.S. is $123,260 per year (Indeed).

Software Applications Tester

A software application tester identifies bugs, performance issues, and usability concerns in programs and applications. Software is tested manually and automatically before it is released to ensure quality standards are met. A software applications tester earns on average $81,657 per year in the U.S. (Indeed).

Digital Marketer

Online marketing strategies are used by digital marketers to promote brands, products, and services. Among the services they provide are search engine optimization, social media marketing, content creation, and analytics to increase traffic, engagement, and conversion rates. Indeed estimated digital marketers can make an average of $65,559 per year in the U.S.

Web Developer

Web developers create and manage digital sites, focusing on functionality, performance, and responsiveness. They use languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, along with frameworks such as React or Angular, to develop engaging and interactive digital experiences. Per Indeed, web developers in the U.S. may earn an average of $80,009 per year.

Technical Writer

A technical writer creates documentation, manuals, and guides that explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner. They translate technical information into user-friendly content for developers, engineers, and end-users. The national average salary for technical writers is $64,344 per year, reports Indeed.

Required Skills for Tech Jobs

To succeed in today's competitive tech landscape, you'll need a diverse skillset. Here's a breakdown of some key skills needed for the tech job market:

Technical Proficiency: The Foundation

• Programming and Development:

  • Proficiency in relevant programming languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, Java).

  • Understanding of software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum).

  • Knowledge of version control systems (e.g., Git).

• Junior Data Analyst:

  • Proficiency in SQL and data analysis tools (e.g., Python libraries like Pandas, NumPy).

  • Statistical analysis and data visualization skills.

  • Experience with data modeling and predictive analytics.

  • Knowledge of spreadsheet applications.

• Cybersecurity Analyst:

  • Knowledge of network security and cybersecurity principles.

  • Experience with security tools and technologies (firewalls, intrusion detection systems).

  • Understanding of security protocols and best practices.

  • Knowledge of risk assessment and operating systems.

• Mobile Developer:

  • Proficiency in platform-specific languages (Swift for iOS, Kotlin for Android).

  • Experience with mobile development frameworks (React Native).

  • Understanding of mobile UI/UX principles.

  • Knowledge of API integrations.

• UX Designer:

  • User research and usability testing skills.

  • Wireframing and prototyping tools (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD).

  • Knowledge of UI/UX principles and best practices.

  • Understanding of information architecture.

Tech Soft Skills: The Differentiator

• Communication and Collaboration:

  • Clear and concise communication (written and verbal).

  • Effective teamwork and collaboration skills.

  • Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:

  • Analytical and problem-solving abilities.

  • Critical thinking and decision-making skills.

  • Adaptability to changing situations.

• Continuous Learning and Adaptability:

  • Willingness to learn new technologies and methodologies.

  • Ability to adapt to changing industry trends.

  • Time management and organization.

Job Requirements for Working in Tech

While "Required Skills" focuses on the specific abilities you need, "Job Requirements" encompasses a broader view, including qualifications, experience, and other factors that employers consider.

Educational and Experiential Requirements

• Formal Education: While a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field remains a strong asset, the tech industry is increasingly valuing demonstrable skills. These skills can be gained through self-study, tech bootcamps, and more.

• Relevant Experience: Internships, personal projects, and previous work experience are highly valued.

• Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications (e.g., AWS, CompTIA, Google Cloud) can enhance your qualifications.

• Portfolio: A strong portfolio of projects that showcase your skills and abilities.

Job-Specific Requirements

• Role-Specific Skills: Depending on the job role, specific skills might be required (e.g., UX design skills, database management expertise).

• Industry Knowledge: Understanding the specific industry or domain you're working in.

• Compliance and Regulations: Awareness of relevant compliance and regulatory requirements.

• Tools and Technologies: Proficiency in specific software, tools, and technologies used by the company.

Two Ways to Get Into Tech Jobs Without Degrees

While many tech jobs don’t need college degrees, they do require other forms of education. Prospective employees need to learn complex software programs and programming languages, as well as the latest standards and techniques. Here are some alternative paths for learning those skills without the time and expense of a computer science degree:

Self Study

Workers with strong self-discipline and a love of independent learning can find abundant resources to study for tech jobs. Many books, YouTube videos, and online courses have the virtues of being low-cost or free. For example, Codecademy, Khan Academy, and Louisiana State University Tech Bootcamps Powered by Fullstack Academy offer no-cost introductory courses in JavaScript.

But self-learning also has limitations. It can be challenging to hold yourself accountable to a study schedule, and classroom learning offers social benefits like peer review and encouragement.

Independent study also offers fewer opportunities for networking and professional development skills-building than traditional education. Taking a few free courses can, however, help prepare students for rigorous programs like tech bootcamps.

Tech Bootcamps

For those desiring rapid entry into a tech job without a degree, comprehensive, fast-tracked programs called bootcamps offer a middle-of-the-road option between self-study and college. They can prepare a student for their first job in as little as 10 weeks of full-time courses or 28 weeks of part-time.

Beyond teaching hands-on tech skills, bootcamps offer other benefits. Working in a community of other students and instructors can jump-start a personal network. There are many options available to help make pursuing a bootcamp education more affordable, including discounts, scholarships, monthly payments and more.

Finding the Right Bootcamp

Not all bootcamps are created equal. They teach varying levels of skills and have different degrees of success in helping their graduates land jobs. Here are some key points to check out in choosing a bootcamp that fits your goals:

• Admissions process. Many program websites offer advice on how to prepare for the admissions process, which varies depending on the skill level required for admission (beginner vs intermediate).

• How to pay. Some bootcamps offer scholarships to help students pay for tuition. Others build financial aid into their tuition models, with provisions such as deferring much of payment until a student is employed. Others connect students with lenders who specialize in bootcamps.

• Programming languages taught. JavaScript and Python are the two most commonly used on the job, according to GitHub Repositories.

• Student projects. Looking at projects created by prior students can paint a picture of the learning outcomes.

• Job placements. What percentage of graduates get tech jobs within a year, and would you want to work for the same employers?

Explore Programs for Getting Tech Jobs Without a Degree

Technology is one of few fields in which someone new to the industry can earn high wages without a college degree. Intensive programs like those at Louisiana State University Tech Bootcamps Powered by Fullstack Academy can equip students with the skills for entry-level tech jobs in as few as three months. These bootcamps combine up-to-date instruction in rapidly evolving topics such as programming languages with practical projects to develop and demonstrate mastery.

Discover how Louisiana State University Tech Bootcamps can be a launch pad for a long-term career in the world of technology.

Sources:

Cybersecurity Ventures, “Cybersecurity in Crisis: How to Combat the $10.5 Trillion Cybercrime Surge”

Indeed, “19 High-Paying Tech Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree”

Indeed, “How To Get a Computer Programming Job Without a Degree”