For decades, going to college as a way to get the best possible job was a right to pass for the majority of Americans moving upwards.
But aside from social mobility, university degrees are truly equivalent to better jobs in the job market today. Or is it an outdated status symbol that no longer has a real impact on future employment?
According to the data edited by Labor Statistics Bureauworkers with graduate degrees had the lowest unemployment rates and lowest revenues compared to those who completed their education in high school or did not complete their high school education.
5 jobs to apply
- Dir Sales II -Federal, Lumen, VA
- Federal advocacy manager for the Alaska Wilderness League, Washington
- Policy Advisor for Arnold & Porter, Washington
- Senior Policy Specialist, Arnold & Porter, Washington
- Security Strategic ACCT MNGR, Government, Johnson Control, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
However, individual data implemented by BurningGlass Institute and Strada Institute for the Future of Work Four-year university degrees no longer guaranteed “college-level jobs,” with only half of university graduates securing employment at university-level jobs within a year of graduation.
Furthermore, with the rise in skill-based employment, vocational training and apprenticeships and accreditations are increasingly favored by school leabers who want secondary formal education and want to hand over tens of thousands of tuition debt to their heads.
In fact, according to recent data released I'll resume my geniusthere are more and more high paying jobs with high employment outlook that do not require a four-year university degree.
1. Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairs
Median year sal: $102,420
Number of jobs (2023): 24,400
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 6%
This role includes troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues that occur with elevators and escalators. Other duties include the installation and maintenance of escalators and elevator equipment.
To be hired as an elevator and escalator installer and repair company, you must complete a four-year apprenticeship and obtain a state license or certificate. It should also be noted that although time is primarily shift-based, you can ask for emergencies that occur.
2. Transportation, Storage and Distribution Manager
Median year sal: $99,200
Number of jobs (2023): 211,800
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 9%
Transport, storage and distribution managers are responsible for overseeing the flow of goods, for example, by loading goods into trucks for distribution nationwide or internationally.
You don't need a logistics degree to work as a transportation, storage, or distribution manager, but if you want to work in this field, we recommend raising your skills through certificates. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Logistics, Transport and Distribution (CLTD) Certificationor Lean Six Sigma It helps to boost employment outlook.
3. Electric Power Installers and Repairs
Median year sal: $85,420
Number of jobs (2023): 123,400
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 8%
Power line installers and repair companies are responsible for installing and repairing power lines and cables. Also, after a storm or natural disaster, they are important workers and need to restore the power lines.
You don't need a degree for this job, but you need to be careful not to be afraid of height.
4. Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Engineers
Median year sal: $75,400
Number of jobs (2023): 163,300
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 5%
The mechanisms and engineers of aircraft and avionics equipment will install, inspect and repair the aircraft to ensure that they are safe and flight-ready.
A university degree is not required, but you will need to complete an FFA approved program, including a certificate in aviation maintenance technology. An alternative path to this profession comes from military service.
5. Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Median year sal: $74,910
Number of jobs (2023): 796,800
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 4%
Whether you're a true crime fan or want to pursue a career defending civic duties, becoming a detective or criminal investigator can be a very rewarding job.
Detectives usually start as patrol officers and complete academy training, but certifications in specific areas such as cybersecurity and forensic evidence allow them to specialize in specific areas.
6. Locomotive Engineer
Median year sal: $73,580
Number of jobs (2023): 83,000
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 2%
The locomotive engineer will drive the passengers and freight trains to ensure that all trips are completed safely. On-site training is a typical way to qualify in this field, and all locomotive engineers must obtain a high school diploma.
7. Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representative
Median year sal: $73,080
Number of jobs (2023): 1,681,400
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 1%
Wholesale and manufacturing and sales representatives, essentially intermediaries between wholesale manufacturers and retailers, are usually employed by wholesale companies and sold directly to businesses.
This role is varied and usually involves travel, with the skills and knowledge required depend on the industry involved.
8. Athletes and sports competitors
Median year sal: $70,280
Number of jobs (2023): 25,100
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 11%
From the NFL to local track and field teams, the lives and salaries of athletes depend on the sport they play and the level they play.
For example, Cleveland Browns quarterback Desshaun Watson is expected to make money. $230 million Thanks to a five-year contract that starts in 2022 and is scheduled to run until 2027.
9. flight attendant
Median year sal: $68,370
Number of jobs (2023): 130,300
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 10%
If you've always dreamed of traveling the world, becoming a flight attendant is a great option.
Most airlines do not require a university degree, but they must prove FAA certification that has passed the airline exam.
10. Construction and Building Inspector
Median year sal: $67,700
Number of jobs (2023): 142,600
Estimated Employment Growth (2023–2033): 0%
Construction is very advantageous and very diverse as a carrier.
As a construction and building inspector, you are responsible for ensuring that your construction project meets local codes, zoning rules and safety standards.
Want a great new job in 2025? Find the next high paying role on today's hill job board
