Have you ever thought about how you can land a high-paying job without having a degree? It’s a common belief that a university education is necessary to secure a high-paying role, but the truth is that there are numerous opportunities where you can earn a great salary without holding a degree. In this blog, we’ll explore the highest-paying jobs in the UK that don’t require a degree.
Highest Paying Jobs in the UK Without a Degree
Here are some of the highest-paying roles in the UK that do not require a university degree:
Web Developer
Web development is one of the highest-paying tech jobs that doesn’t require a degree. Many successful web developers are self-taught or have completed coding boot camps or online courses. Additionally, specialising in high-demand programming languages or full-stack development can offer great earning potential.
Average Salary: £33,556
Graphic Designer
For creative people, graphic design is a perfect career to earn money using artistic skills. Many graphic designers are self-taught or have completed short courses instead of pursuing a degree. Furthermore, this job allows you to work across various industries, such as advertising, publishing, and digital media.
Average Salary: £27,265
Digital Marketer
Digital marketing is growing fast, and experience can often be more valuable than a degree. Digital marketers help businesses expand their online presence through strategies like social media marketing, email campaigns, and SEO. As a result, the demand for digital marketers is high, especially with the rise of e-commerce.
Average Salary: £28,000.
Police Officer
Becoming a police officer is a great career for people interested in law enforcement. Although a degree isn’t required, you will need to pass physical fitness tests and background checks and complete training at a police academy. Over time, police officers can move up to higher-paying roles. Therefore, it’s a rewarding career with long-term growth opportunities.
Average Salary: £35,763
Firefighter
Firefighting is a tough but rewarding job. Firefighters help save lives, protect property, and keep the community safe. While a degree isn’t necessary, you must be physically fit and undergo rigorous training. As a result, with experience, the salary can rise significantly, making it a financially rewarding profession.
Average Salary: £44,027
Content Writer
Content writing is a great field for people who enjoy writing and have good research skills. While many content writers have backgrounds in English or journalism, a degree isn’t necessary. Moreover, you can begin writing for blogs, websites, or marketing materials and gradually build a portfolio as you gain experience.
Average Salary: £26,000
Executive Assistant
Executive assistants support senior managers by handling administrative tasks, managing schedules, and communicating with clients. While a degree isn’t required, you need strong organisational and communication skills, as well as experience in administration. Consequently, this is an essential role in many businesses with competitive pay.
Average Salary: £31,450
Air Traffic Controller
Air traffic controllers ensure the safe movement of aeroplanes. This high-stress job doesn’t require a degree, but you must complete a competitive air traffic control training programme. Due to the responsibility and skills required, the salary is higher compared to many other roles.
Average Salary: £50,00
Professional Plumber
Plumbing is a trade that’s always needed. Plumbers install and repair water systems in homes and businesses. While you don’t need a degree, you will need to complete an apprenticeship and gain hands-on experience. Therefore, plumbing can be a well-paying job due to the ongoing demand for skilled workers.
Average Salary: £25,000
Mortgage Advisor
Mortgage advisors provide expert advice to individuals looking to secure home loans. While many mortgage advisors pursue professional qualifications, a degree is not mandatory. If you have strong communication and sales skills, combined with an understanding of financial products, this could be a rewarding career for you.
Average Salary: £29,289
Hazardous Waste Manager
Hazardous waste managers are responsible for ensuring the safe disposal of dangerous materials. While a degree isn’t required, specialised knowledge in environmental science and safety protocols is crucial. Additionally, hazardous waste managers can find work in various industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and environmental protection.
Average Salary: £28,000
Project Manager
Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of projects within a given budget and timeline. While some project managers have degrees, many start their careers in other roles and work their way up. Strong organisational skills, leadership abilities, and industry-specific knowledge are more important than formal education in this career.
Average Salary: £45,625
Journalist
Journalism can be an exciting career, and many journalists start by working in smaller roles or freelancing. Although some journalists have a degree in journalism, others enter the field through internships or by showcasing their writing skills. Over time, journalists gain experience, allowing them to cover bigger stories and increase their earning potential.
Average Salary: £25,193
Photographer
In photography, skills and experience are often more important than formal education. Whether you specialise in portraits, events, or commercial photography, there are numerous opportunities to earn well. Therefore, building a strong portfolio and gaining hands-on experience is essential to securing higher-paying jobs.
Average Salary: £25,893
Conclusion
As we can see, there are many well-paid jobs in the UK that don’t require a degree. From police officers and firefighters to digital marketers and web developers, there are numerous career options where practical skills and experience are more important than formal education. Therefore, if you’re determined to succeed, don’t worry about the idea that a degree is the only path to a good income. Instead, focus on learning the right skills, gaining experience, and taking advantage of the opportunities these roles offer.