If you’re reconsidering your college journey or feeling that traditional education isn’t the right fit for you, rest assured that success can be achieved without a degree. Many rewarding career paths don’t require formal education, allowing you to thrive based on your skills and interests.
We’ve compiled a list of the top ten jobs for college dropouts, empowering you to embark on a fulfilling career journey.
Key Takeaways:
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The leading jobs for college dropouts include auto mechanic, solar panel installer, and massage therapist.
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Before making the decision to drop out, consider the educational requirements of your desired career.
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Remember, you can continue learning through alternative means and have the option to return to college later if you choose.
Top 10 Best Jobs For College Dropouts
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Average Salary: $36,000 per year
Current Jobs Available: 56,081
Job Growth Rate: -1%If you have an interest in cars, becoming an auto mechanic is a solid career choice. The average hourly wage is $19.29, with 38% of mechanics requiring only a high school diploma to get started.
With two years of experience or completing vocational training, you can easily enter this field.
Auto mechanic responsibilities:
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Certify ASE technician in front-end suspensions and hydraulic brake systems
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Perform all required engine work such as valve adjustments and shock setup
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Assist in collision repair processes (painting, sandblasting, buffing, and dismantling)
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Conduct automotive maintenance and diagnostics on customer vehicles
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Repair and troubleshoot automotive electrical systems
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Document repairs, modifications, and inspections as per FAA regulations
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Average Salary: $42,384 per year
Current Jobs Available: 9,563
Job Growth Rate: 63%With an average hourly wage of $20.38 and a remarkable job growth rate of 63%, becoming a solar panel installer is an excellent option for those considering leaving college.
Most solar panel installers only need a high school diploma, making this an accessible career choice, even for those without prior experience.
Solar panel installer responsibilities:
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Manage telecommunications, data, and CCTV equipment
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Install framing, wiring, and PV modules for commercial systems
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Wire control panels for multi-zone HVAC units
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Calibrate weigh belts for proper application of dry components
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Perform electrical tasks, including circuit current readings and wiring
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Conduct inverter programming and QC tasks prior to deployment
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Average Salary: $45,742 per year
Jobs Available: 35,881
Job Growth Rate: 22%Becoming a massage therapist can be a fulfilling career choice, with an average pay of $22 per hour. This role only requires approximately 500 hours of postsecondary education, and around 27.7% of professionals in this field have achieved this with just a high school diploma or certificate.
Massage therapist responsibilities:
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Manage a high-volume caseload and organize client schedules
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Perform massage therapy and energy therapies in various settings
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Specialize in techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and reflexology
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Provide massage therapy in therapeutic settings including chiropractic offices and home appointments
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Administer diverse body care treatments, including hot stone and pre-natal therapy
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Average Salary: $46,000 per year
Jobs Available: 1,110
Job Growth Rate: 6%If you have a passion for wine and strong interpersonal skills, a career as a sommelier might be ideal. Working in fine dining establishments, sommeliers earn an average of $22.49 per hour while educating guests and staff about wines.
Training, often from related roles such as waiter or manager, can be beneficial, and online courses are available to learn necessary skills.
Sommelier responsibilities:
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Provide exceptional wine pairings for guests
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Conduct educational sessions for staff on wine and spirits
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Ensure compliance with sanitation standards and procedures
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Master wine service techniques for various types of wines
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Promote and market wine offerings effectively
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Average Salary: $48,293 per year
Jobs Available: 49,535
Job Growth Rate: 5%Millwrights are responsible for repairing industrial machinery, earning an average of $23.22 per hour. This hands-on role is well-suited for those who enjoy working with machinery and tools. Notably, 45% of individuals in this field only have a high school diploma, making it an accessible career for dropouts.
Millwright responsibilities:
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Install, dismantle, or relocate machinery based on blueprints
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Troubleshoot mechanical issues and assist with welding
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Conduct various welding and cutting processes
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Ensure all work adheres to safety regulations and standards
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Average Salary: $49,118 per year
Jobs Available: 58,902
Job Growth Rate: 10%Insurance agents specialize in selling various types of insurance and typically earn around $23.61 per hour. This role is experiencing a 10% growth rate, and approximately 15% of agents start with just a high school diploma.
Success in this field hinges on strong customer service and knowledge of insurance products, with many companies offering on-the-job training.
Insurance agent responsibilities:
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Manage leads and sales in designated territories
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Educate clients about insurance products and services
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Calculate premiums and develop tailored insurance plans
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Average Salary: $49,482 per year
Jobs Available: 8,300
Job Growth Rate: -6%As a photographer, you’ll have the freedom to choose various niches, from commercial to event photography. The average hourly wage is over $23, and while the field has a steep learning curve, many successful photographers have only a high school diploma.
Photographer responsibilities:
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Retouch images for online and print media
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Manage photography setups for clients
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Specialize in different photography styles and techniques
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Average Salary: $54,348 per year
Jobs Available: 147,169
Job Growth Rate: 6%Lodging facilities managers earn about $26.13 per hour, overseeing the operations of hotels or similar establishments. With close to 150,000 jobs available and a 6% growth rate, this role is an excellent opportunity for college dropouts.
While managerial experience is beneficial, about 15% of managers have only a high school diploma.
Lodging facilities manager responsibilities:
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Oversee customer service incidents and emergency situations
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Analyze office operations, including payroll and bookkeeping
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Facilitate employee safety training and meetings
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Average Salary: $56,106 per year
Jobs Available: 169,231
Job Growth Rate: 2%Sales representatives are key players in the business world, with an average salary of $26.97 per hour. There are over 169,000 positions available, and many require minimal experience or education.
Around 20% of sales representatives only possess a high school diploma, demonstrating that skills and personality are often more important than formal education.
Sales representative responsibilities:
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Manage leads and maintain customer relationships through CRM software
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Conduct sales activities and respond to customer inquiries
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Average Salary: $102,423 per year
Jobs Available: 22,010
Job Growth Rate: 7%Real estate agents can earn nearly $50 an hour, with many achieving this success without a college degree. It’s essential to obtain a real estate license, and while competition is high, up to 27% of agents have only a high school diploma.
Real estate broker responsibilities:
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Manage financial operations and marketing for properties
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Negotiate sales contracts and handle closing processes
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Things to Keep in Mind When You Drop Out of College
Did you know that over 60% of jobs in the U.S. don’t require a bachelor’s degree? Many of these roles offer competitive salaries and career growth opportunities.
When considering dropping out, remember that this decision doesn’t define your future. You can still find fulfilling work, gain valuable experience, and thrive.
Here are some important points to consider:
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Do you need a degree for your desired job? Many rewarding careers don’t require formal education. This list presents options that may align with your interests.
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Consider the risks. Before dropping out, weigh your options. If you have only a semester left or your dream job requires a degree, it may be worth completing your studies.
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You can pursue a degree later. Dropping out now doesn’t eliminate the possibility of returning to school in the future. Balancing work and education can be challenging but achievable.
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Know yourself. Make decisions based on your goals, not external pressures. Reflect on what you want for your future.
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Keep learning. Engage in online courses and workshops to enhance your skills without incurring significant expenses.
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Stay humble. Starting in an entry-level position is common for dropouts, but dedication can lead to career advancement.
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Consider internships or volunteering. These experiences can build your resume and demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers.
Final Thoughts
If you feel that dropping out is the best decision for you, take heart in knowing there are numerous quality job opportunities available. Look for careers that offer apprenticeships, vocational training, or require only a certificate or license to start.
Remember, starting with a lower salary doesn’t mean you won’t have opportunities for growth and advancement as you gain experience.
Author
Jack Flynn is a writer for Zippia. In his professional career he’s written over 100 research papers, articles and blog posts. Some of his most popular published works include his writing about economic terms and research into job classifications. Jack received his BS from Hampshire College.
