software developer

Here are five high-paying IT jobs that don’t require a degree: software developer, cybersecurity analyst, database administrator, network administrator and web developer.

There are various factors behind the trend of high-paying IT jobs not requiring a degree, such as the industry’s focus on practical skills and experience, and the significant demand for talent in the field. Employers often value candidates who can demonstrate their skills through real-world projects and specialized certifications, rather than solely relying on formal education.

Furthermore, with the availability of online resources, coding boot camps and specialized training programs, individuals can develop their skills and gain practical experience without pursuing a traditional degree. As a result, having a strong portfolio of work and relevant experience can often qualify individuals for high-paying IT jobs, regardless of their educational background.

You do not need a college degree to get tech jobs. pic.twitter.com/ZeR0lL0KaN

— Han (@HanchungLee) November 13, 2021

Here are five high-paying IT jobs that do not require a degree.

Software developer

A software developer creates and develops software applications and typically earns a high salary even without a degree. Many programmers are self-taught, have gone through coding boot camps or have taken online courses.

Software developer jobs have become more accessible to those without a degree due to several factors. First off, many firms in the sector place a higher priority on abilities and practical experience than on formal education. This implies that candidates without a degree who have a solid body of work or real-world projects can still be evaluated for employment as software developers.

Moreover, a lot of people who work as software engineers are self-taught and acquire their knowledge from tutorials online, coding boot camps or mentorship. As a result, there is now a more convenient and accessible way to enter the field without the time or financial commitment of a conventional degree program.

Additionally, the growing demand for software developers has led to a wider range of job opportunities, which can accommodate different levels of education and experience. As a result, software developer jobs have become more attainable for individuals without a degree and can offer lucrative career paths in the IT industry.

Related: 9 data science project ideas for beginners

Cybersecurity analyst

Cybersecurity specialists are increasingly in demand as businesses become more susceptible to cyberattacks. While practical experience and qualifications are valued in this position, people without degrees can pursue this career path.

Due to the significance placed on real-world experience and specific qualifications in the area, degrees are not always necessary for cybersecurity analyst positions. Many organizations are eager to work with applicants who have shown their knowledge through real-world experience and certification programs like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). 

Certs for Cybersecurity

CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Network+
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Splunk Core Certified User (SPLK-1001)
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

— BowTiedCyber | Cybersecurity Educator (@BowTiedCyber) April 6, 2023

Also, industry professionals need to continuously learn and adapt due to the quick speed of technological innovations and cybersecurity concerns. Individuals with up-to-date knowledge of security trends and practical expertise using security technologies and tactics are therefore in high demand. As a result, those without degrees are now able to enter the area through a variety of means, such as technical training, professional certificates or prior military experience.

Database administrator

Database administrators oversee the storage, organization and security of company data. They can earn a high salary with specialized certifications and practical experience. In the highly specialized sector of database administration, companies frequently place a higher emphasis on credentials and practical experience than on academic schooling.

In reality, businesses greatly respect a number of industry-recognized qualifications, including Oracle Certified Professional and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert. In addition, there are several chances for people to get on-the-job training through internships, apprenticeships or entry-level positions. This makes it possible for people without a degree to enter and succeed in this profitable area and gives the industry a more flexible and accessible entry point.

Network administrator

A network administrator manages and maintains computer networks, including hardware, software and security. Many network administrators begin their careers with technical certifications or experience in help desk or customer support roles.

Over formal schooling, many organizations place a higher emphasis on hands-on experience and certification programs like Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or CompTIA Network+. A lot of network administrators are also self-taught and have developed their knowledge through hands-on training, working with various networking technologies and debugging complicated issues.

Going to school for #cybersecurity is great, but #ITcertifications can often offer a faster, cheaper and more well-rounded path to a cybersecurity career.

Learn about this firsthand from a real #ITpro! https://t.co/twOJeZZdN4 pic.twitter.com/yhZAvGmHhw

— CompTIA (@CompTIA) April 7, 2023

This makes it possible for people without degrees, especially those who have expertise in similar industries like IT support, to enter the industry more easily. As a result, for those prepared to invest in industry qualifications and hands-on experience, network administrator positions provide a profitable career path.

Web developer

Web developers create and design websites and are in high demand in today’s digital age. Many web developers have honed their skills through self-study, coding boot camps or online courses and can earn a high salary without a degree.

Several employers place a high emphasis on applicants who have experience creating websites and web applications and who can showcase their abilities through an online portfolio or practical projects. For individuals who are prepared to put in the time and effort to develop their abilities and construct a good portfolio, web developer jobs provide a rewarding career path.