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10 tech jobs that don't require a degree
Not all tech jobs require a college degree. Some of these jobs -- such as network engineer, cybersecurity analyst and web developer -- are in high demand and offer online training.
A variety of career opportunities in the technology sector exist for people without a college degree.
Many people are looking to change careers as part of the Great Resignation. Careers in tech offer a variety of positions for people of all backgrounds -- and the field is evolving quickly.
Technology careers are projected to grow by 15% in the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Comparatively, this annual growth rate is higher than the average 7.7% growth projected for the entire U.S. job market by 2030.
For those without a college degree who are looking for a new career, here are some tech jobs to consider.
1. Software engineer
Software engineers create and update software applications using various programming languages, such as SQL, C++, Python and Java. They might also create application testing methods to check for needed system updates and oversee programming methods while making these updates. Software engineers test and troubleshoot found issues to improve the software system.
Some software engineers have a background in coding, but others are self-taught. Online coding bootcamps are helpful courses to train for this career.
Median salary: $109,020
2. Mobile developer
Mobile developers work on code for mobile applications. They develop the interfaces specific to mobile devices and enhance existing mobile apps based on customer recommendations and user experiences.
Mobile developers also stay on top of the latest programs, research ideas for new applications and enhance current programs. They research both user experience and user interface specific to mobile applications.
To keep up with industry trends and learn new coding techniques, mobile developers attend training seminars and conferences.
Median salary: $122,956
3. Help desk analyst
Help desk analysts or computer support specialists assist customers to solve issues with the company's technology or products. They need to be familiar with the company's products and software. They will also document all steps taken to solve the issues.
This role requires employees to have interpersonal skills because they interact with frustrated customers. Soft skills -- such as empathy, communication, listening and attention to detail -- are vital to respond to disgruntled customers.
While a degree isn't always necessary for this role, there are some customer service courses on sites such as Udemy, LinkedIn Learning and CompTIA to help those interested to learn more about technology.
Median salary: $57,910
4. Cybersecurity analyst
Cybersecurity analysts -- also known as information security analysts -- help protect an organization from malicious attacks to the company's software or network. They test and analyze the company's systems and networks regularly to check for vulnerabilities and threats. Because of this testing, cybersecurity analysts should understand coding and programming languages.
About 60% of organizations struggle to recruit cybersecurity talent, and 67% agree that the skills shortage of cybersecurity professionals creates additional risks for organizations, according to Fortinet's "2022 Cybersecurity Skills Gap" report.
There are online certifications to help people enter this field, such as Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Information Systems Analyst and CompTIA Security+. To stay up to date on threats, cybersecurity professionals attend training seminars and follow industry trends to be ready for the latest threat actor tactics and attacks.
Median salary: $102,600
Learn more about in-demand cybersecurity jobs.
5. Technical writer
Technical writers focus on the tech industry and write blog posts, articles, training documents and other communications. They write these articles to help educate or inform their audience about technical topics, often making highly technical information more understandable to the average reader.
People in this position must be strong writers and understand the tech industry to write engaging and informative communications.
Median salary: $78,060
6. Network engineer
Network engineers manage the company's computer networks daily. They also need to do some cybersecurity analysis to watch for and discover any vulnerabilities.
Network engineers work with physical network equipment such as switches and routers. They also handle configuring, installing and supporting network firewalls for security.
Knowledge of programming languages is a great starting point. There are also plenty of certifications for this role, such as Linux Essentials and Cisco Certified Network Associate.
Median salary: $91,772
Learn more about the differences between network engineer vs. network administrator.
7. Systems analyst
Computer systems analysts evaluate a company's computer programs to check for ways to improve the design and efficiency. Systems analysts will review the latest technologies to determine the best ways to improve computer systems.
They also work with IT managers to make needed improvements and oversee new configurations and installation of any changes. System analysts also determine any costs and options to improve computer systems.
While degrees are common, they are not always necessary. Business experience is helpful for this position.
Median salary: $99,270
8. Software applications tester
Software applications testers help companies understand the user experience and test scenarios for software and application improvements. Software applications testers also decide software requirements and create performance reports. They work with clients to review designs for quality improvement.
There are online bootcamps to train for this position similar to programs for software developers.
Median salary: $91,914
9. Web developer
Web developers use programing languages such as JavaScript, Python and PHP to create new websites and update existing sites. Web developers can work on the front end of the website, which is what users see. They can also work on the back end, which is the background programming that gives function to the website. Some web developers, known as full-stack developers, work on both sides of the website.
Web developers present design ideas, monitor traffic, solve website issues and regularly test the company website.
There are online training and certification courses available on sites such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, Wilco and Codecademy.
Median salary: $78,300
10. Digital marketer
Digital marketers use tools and strategies to develop marketing campaigns. These professionals work with other marketing professionals and programmers to create digital campaigns.
Other responsibilities include planning digital marketing campaigns, identifying industry trends, planning social media promotions and evaluating other ways to reach customers on digital platforms.
Most digital marketers are self-taught and stay up to date with the latest trends through conferences and online training.
Median salary: $60,334
