Are you a high school student, or possibly thinking of a new career path, and think college is the only way to go? Do you not actually want to go, but think you don’t have a choice?

Many of us go through high school or our early life hearing that the only way to a good career and financial security later in life is by attending college and earning a four-year degree. In fact, this is the rationale I most commonly hear for why it’s a good idea to attend college—not the skills supposedly gained through a college education.

In reality, there are many careers possible without the four-year degree path. Not sure where to start looking? On this list, I have included over 30 career options that do not (or not necessarily) require a four-year degree. You will almost certainly need a high school diploma or GED, and many of these do require additional training, either an associate’s degree, a community college certificate program, a trade school, or on-the-job training. Specific requirements, licensure, qualifications, and average salaries vary by state and jurisdiction. If any of these careers interest you, consult with your local professionals about what you would need to do to get started.

Public service
911 dispatcher
Air traffic controller
Correctional officer
Firefighter
Military
Police officer
Postal worker

Business
Paralegal
Sales
Small business owner (think…food truck, bakery, ice cream shop, florist)
Software and coding

Repair and manual work
Auto mechanic
Computer repair technician
Contractor
Electrician
HVAC
Plumber
Truck driver
Welder

Transportation
Railway employee
Flight attendant

Restorative
Cosmetologist
Personal trainer
Pet groomer
Tailor/dry cleaning

Language and arts
Food writer
Graphic designer
Interpreter/translator
Video production

Health care
Dental assistant or dental hygienist
Emergency medical responder/paramedic
Massage therapist
Nurse: Certified Nursing Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, Registered Nurse
Optician
Pharmacy technician
Phlebotomist
Physical therapy assistant/aide
Sleep technologist
Veterinary technician