Skilled, Not Schooled: 5 High-Paying Tech Jobs That Don’t Need a Degree
The tech industry is evolving fast and the way people break into it is changing just as quickly.
A four-year college degree used to be the golden ticket. Not anymore. Today, companies care less about where you went to school and more about what you can do. Practical tech skills. Real-world training. The ability to adapt, solve problems, and keep up with fast-moving tech trends.
That’s great news if you’re looking to start over, switch careers, or skip the traditional college path. There’s never been a better time to fast-track your tech career in the growing technology industry.
Why Tech is Dropping Degree Requirements
Big-name companies like Google, Apple, and IBM have publicly removed college degree requirements for many high-paying tech jobs. Instead, they’re hiring based on relevant certifications, hands-on training, and the ability to conduct troubleshooting operations effectively.
And with the rise of immersive bootcamps, online certification programs, and hands-on learning platforms, there are more ways than ever to build the skills hiring managers actually care about.
This shift is opening doors for people from all backgrounds — especially those who want to break into tech without spending four years (and thousands of dollars) on a degree.
5 Tech Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree
Here are five of the highest-paying tech jobs you can train for in less than a year — no college degree required.
1. IT Support Specialist
What They Do: Provide technical support and conduct troubleshooting operations for computer systems, mobile devices, and applications.
Why It’s a Great First Step: It’s one of the most accessible tech jobs and lays the foundation for long-term growth.
- Training Time: 3–6 months
- Average Salary: $49,770/year (BLS Source)
- Career Path: Desk Technician → Systems Administrator → Network Engineer
- Certs That Help: CompTIA A+, Google IT Support
Kable Academy’s Network & IT Support program prepares students with live instruction, hands-on labs, and career-ready support.
2. Cybersecurity Analyst
What They Do: As information security analysts, they protect sensitive information, monitor networks for security incidents, and apply security measures to prevent breaches.
Why It’s Growing Fast: Cyber threats are rising — and companies need skilled pros to stop them.
- Training Time: 6–12 months
- Average Salary: $102,600/year (BLS Source)
- Job Outlook: 32% projected growth through 2032
- Certs That Help: CompTIA Security+, CySA+
Learn more about Kable’s hands-on Cybersecurity training program — no experience required.
3. Network Technician
What They Do: Install, configure, and maintain network infrastructure while ensuring performance across mobile platforms, data centers, and enterprise systems.
Why It’s Valuable: Network engineers are vital to ensuring secure and reliable communication across company systems.
- Training Time: 6–12 months
- Average Salary: $63,460/year (BLS Source)
- Certs That Help: CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Kable’s training includes application testing methods and helps learners determine system viability using effective coding solutions.
4. Web Developer
What They Do: Design and build interactive websites and apps, test software usability, and present design ideas that meet customer specifications.
Why It’s In Demand: Companies rely on web developers to manage and enhance their digital presence across mobile devices and desktop platforms.
- Training Time: 6–12 months
- Average Salary: $78,300/year (BLS Source)
- Skills That Help: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, version control, quality assurance, and responsive front end user performance.
5. Technical Support Specialist
What They Do: Support users by conducting troubleshooting tasks, resolving software and hardware issues, and applying testing and troubleshooting processes to newly implemented codes.
Why It’s Entry-Level Friendly: You can start with just a high school diploma and build your career with certifications.
- Training Time: 3–6 months
- Average Salary: $57,910/year (BLS Source)
Why These Jobs Are Booming
The technology industry is expanding fast.
According to labor statistics, the computer systems design sector alone is projected to add over 377,000 jobs by 2032.
Hiring managers want skills, not degrees.
Today’s top companies focus on whether candidates can meet application or software requirements, troubleshoot system performance data, and create engaging solutions for business problems.
Remote work opens more doors.
Many tech professionals now work remotely, managing user traffic, updating existing computer applications, and collaborating with other developers and writing professionals from home.
Bootcamps close the skills gap.
With Kable, students don’t just learn to code — they gain job-ready skills that address what the industry actually needs.
What Skills Matter More Than a Degree?
Technical Skills:
- Programming languages (Python, JavaScript)
- Application testing methods
- System viability analysis
- Software development basics
- Troubleshooting operations
Soft Skills:
- Team collaboration
- Communication and documentation (as used by technical writers)
- Time management
- Continuous learning
Kable Academy teaches students to build real-world skills that prepare them to excel in roles that don’t require a degree but do demand professionalism and confidence.
How to Get Started Without Experience
Kable Academy’s certification programs are designed for beginners. Whether you want to become a software developer, a data analyst, or start with a foundational tech support role, we make it possible.
Flexible, Live Learning
Learn online with expert instructors and real-time support. Our curriculum adapts to different learning styles and schedules.
Career-Focused Support
From resume help to job matching, we support your career journey every step of the way.
Take the First Step Toward a New Career
Your career journey starts with a Kable Academy bootcamp that prioritizes job outcomes and a targeted education that transforms your professional future. Let’s build your tech career together!