Each year as spring is winding down, social media and news outlets are abuzz with stories about the college degrees of the latest graduating class, reflecting on their four-year journey and the market they’re stepping into, it’s a poignant moment for many. For some, it marks a period of celebration, but for a significant number, it’s a crucial time to think about their own career paths, especially in the context of opportunities that lie beyond degrees.

Over 30 years ago when I was graduating high school, about 20% of people 25 or older had a college degree. Today, the numbers are only marginally better with about 35% of the population in the US 25 or older with a degree. This may be a surprising number to some but as someone who has been in academia for over 15 years, these are numbers that get tossed around in faculty meetings often.

This is not always people people don’t want to go to college. The percentage of individuals who start college can vary. In the United States, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) tracks college enrollment rates. According to their data, the college enrollment rate for recent high school graduates in the United States was approximately 66% in 2019. This percentage represents the proportion of high school graduates who enrolled in a college or university directly after completing high school.

However, the percentage of individuals who complete their undergraduate degree can also vary. In the United States, the graduation rate for undergraduate programs can vary depending on factors such as the type of institution (e.g., public or private) and the degree level (e.g., associate’s or bachelor’s). According to the NCES, the overall six-year graduation rate for first-time, full-time undergraduate students in the United States was approximately 62% for the cohort entering in fall 2013 at four-year institutions.

Along with the growing cost of higher-education, the challenges some may have with attending, and the fact that a college setting is just not the ideal way in which everyone wants to learn, not everyone is going to want to put in the time, money, and or effort to get their degree. So with nearly two-thirds of US adults without a college degree, does that mean they are locked out of opportunity to make a great wage? Not at all.

We examined ten lucrative jobs that pay over $100,000 annually, showcasing that success and financial abundance can be attained through alternative routes. Discover how these careers provide rewarding opportunities and consider the costs and training involved compared to traditional college education.

Commercial Pilot: Soaring to New Heights

Average Annual Salary: $147,220

Embarking on an exciting career as a commercial pilot offers the chance to earn a substantial income. While obtaining a pilot’s license requires significant training and flight hours, the investment can lead to a fulfilling and well-compensated profession. The costs associated with flight school and training programs should be weighed against the potential return on investment over time.

IT Manager: Mastering the Digital Frontier

Average Annual Salary: $156,390

In the rapidly expanding IT field, experience and industry certifications often carry more weight than a college degree. By gaining practical experience and earning certifications, individuals can ascend to managerial positions, overseeing teams and projects in the digital realm. The costs associated with certifications and professional development should be compared to the expenses of a college education to make an informed decision.

Sales Manager: Leading the Charge

Average Annual Salary: $141,690

Sales managers possess strong leadership skills and deep industry knowledge. Climbing the corporate ladder in sales doesn’t necessarily require a college degree. Instead, professionals can focus on acquiring industry-specific skills, attending sales training programs, and building a robust network. The investment in training and professional growth should be considered against the potential financial rewards.

Air Traffic Controller: Navigating the Skies

Average Annual Salary: $130,420

Becoming an air traffic controller involves completing specialized training programs, passing rigorous examinations, and obtaining security clearances. The training process incurs costs, both in terms of time and financial commitments. However, compared to a traditional college education, the investment may be relatively more affordable while still leading to a rewarding and well-paying career.

Construction Manager: Building a Solid Future

Average Annual Salary: $105,630

Construction managers oversee projects, ensuring successful completion on time and within budget. While hands-on experience and on-the-job training are essential, pursuing certifications from reputable organizations can enhance career prospects. Consider the costs of certifications and training programs compared to the expenses of a college degree to make an informed decision.

Petroleum Engineer: Fueling Success

Average Annual Salary: $132,280

Becoming a petroleum engineer involves gaining a strong foundation in engineering principles and acquiring specialized knowledge through on-the-job training and industry courses. While the training process incurs costs, individuals can compare them to the expenses of a traditional college degree. The potential financial rewards and long-term career prospects should be carefully evaluated.

Airline and Commercial Pilot Instructor: Sharing Aviation Expertise

Average Annual Salary: $120,500

Aspiring pilots can consider becoming flight instructors to share their aviation expertise. By obtaining a commercial pilot’s license and completing a certified flight instructor program, individuals can train future pilots. The costs associated with acquiring certifications and instructor ratings should be compared to the potential income and satisfaction derived from teaching others.

Data Scientist: Unleashing the Power of Data

Average Annual Salary: $122,840

Data science is a rapidly growing field that values practical skills and problem-solving abilities. Gaining proficiency in programming languages and statistical analysis tools can be achieved through various means, such as online courses, coding bootcamps, and practical projects. The costs of these educational options should be evaluated against the potential financial gains and career opportunities.

Financial Manager: Navigating the Financial Landscape

Average Annual Salary: $134,180

Financial managers play a vital role in overseeing an organization’s financial operations. While some financial managers hold college degrees, others have climbed the ranks through experience, industry certifications, and specialized knowledge. Individuals can assess the costs of certifications and professional development in the financial field against the expenses of a college degree to determine the most suitable path.

The path to success and financial prosperity is not limited to a college degree. These careers exemplify the possibilities for individuals to thrive without traditional higher education. By considering the costs and hours of training required for these careers compared to a college education, individuals can make informed decisions about their future. It’s essential to embrace alternative routes, focus on skill development, and pursue specialized training and certifications. Remember, success is within reach for those who dare to carve their own paths.