How to Get a Job in Tech Without a Degree

Nowadays, there are many different paths to a career in technology, and you can even get high-paying tech jobs without a degree. Professionals and employers alike can see the effectiveness of taking online courses and attending online bootcamp programs. However, it can still be difficult to know exactly how to get a tech job without a degree.

In this article, you will learn about the important skills you need to get IT jobs without a degree, what tech positions you can apply for, and how much you can expect to earn. If you want to break into the tech industry but don’t have a college degree, learn how tech bootcamps and online courses can help you below. 

Can You Land Tech Jobs Without a Degree?

You can get a wide range of jobs in tech without a degree. In fact, there are numerous ways for you to launch your career in tech. You can opt to join a bootcamp program, sign up for an online course, or attend a vocational school. In some cases, all you need is some real-world experience to find a job. With the right skills, you can get some of the best jobs in tech without a bachelor’s degree.

Many modern companies, including tech giants like Google, are beginning to value skills and hands-on experience instead of formal degrees. They want to see prospective employees demonstrate what they can do instead of simply presenting a credential on a resume. Below, you can learn more about how to get into IT without a degree.

How to Get Into IT: What Technical Skills Do You Need to Get a Job in Tech?

To get a job in tech, you need to have a variety of technical skills. However, the exact skills you need will depend on your career. Regardless of the tech job you want, you can develop the foundational skills to succeed with the right bootcamp program, online course, or vocational school. If you want to learn how to get into IT, you should start with these essential skills.

Programming Skills 

Basic programming skills are a requirement for a variety of tech jobs. You can attain extensive programming skills by attending a coding bootcamp program. Coding bootcamps will help you master multiple programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Mastery of these popular programming languages will set you apart in the field of tech. 

You can also learn Python and R, which are key coding languages used by data scientists and analysts. Whichever programming language you choose, it will become the foundation for your career in tech. Once you develop solid computer programming skills, you can launch your career as a software developer, user experience designer, or full stack web developer. 

Data Analysis 

Data analysis involves using statistical techniques to evaluate and comprehensively present data. The professionals clean, transform, and model data to present useful insights for business owners. Through the information presented, business owners can make sound decisions regarding their businesses and make profits in the long run.

If you choose to master this skill, you’ll open up opportunities to become a data analyst, business intelligence analyst, data architect, or machine learning engineer. These are highly rewarding career paths in tech. However, if you want to earn a high salary as a data analyst, you must ensure that you also master data science tools and techniques.

Cloud Computing 

Cloud computing involves the effective delivery of computing services via the Internet. This can include storage, databases, networking, and servers. This is a very popular option among businesses today because it allows easy data storage and access. Professionals with skills in cloud computing can start careers as cloud architects or cloud engineers. 

The most popular cloud computing providers are Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, IBM Cloud, and Alibaba Cloud. If you choose to master cloud computing, you should consider earning certifications offered by these top providers. They will give you the recognition you need to land high-paying job positions in tech. 

Machine Learning 

Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that deals with analytical models, data analysis, and programming. Mastering machine learning will open a wide range of opportunities in tech. You can easily become a machine learning engineer, artificial intelligence engineer, data engineer, or robotics engineer. 

To launch the above-mentioned careers, you must understand neural networks, graphical models, vector machines, and decision trees. In addition, you should also look into supervised learning or unsupervised learning. These are the main topic areas in machine learning.

Development Operations (DevOps) 

DevOps features the automation and design meant to increase a business’s efficiency and value. Major DevOps skills include configuration management, continuous integration, automated testing, and continuous deployment.

Once you master these skills, you can start your career as a DevOps engineer or DevOps manager. Each is a high-paying tech career with promising job prospects because of the transferable skills. Every tech company needs a DevOps engineer to help them stay on track.

What Else Can Help Me Get a Job in Tech Without a Degree?

If you want to get a job in tech without a degree, you will need to prove you have the necessary skills. From having a strong resume to building a robust portfolio, you will need to take steps to ensure potential employers can see your worth. Learn more about how to get a tech job without a degree below.

A Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Perhaps the most important aspect of getting a tech job without a degree is having a strong tech resume. Since you won’t be able to list a formal degree on your resume, you should make sure to list any certificates or certifications you have earned. In addition, you should make sure your skills stand out effectively. You may even want to do some research on how to best list programming skills on your resume. 

A Solid Portfolio

If your work can speak for itself, then employers won’t care whether or not you have a college education. As such, you should take time to cultivate a solid tech portfolio. The projects in your portfolio should show off your diverse range of skills, and you can impress employers by getting creative. If you are unsure about where to start, you can research tech portfolio examples online. 

Soft Skills

Though the tech industry is highly reliant on hard skills, there are also essential soft skills for tech jobs, so don’t forget to highlight these as well. In tech, soft skills such as communication and teamwork are important. You should also be prepared to discuss your soft skills during a tech interview. 

Highest-Paying Tech Jobs You Can Get Without a Degree

The tech world features many opportunities, and you do not need to pursue a four-year degree to land a high-paying position. In fact, you can use the tips in this article to land some of the highest-paying IT jobs without a degree. 

Instead of formal education, you should get hands-on experience for your resume and refine your skills. If you are interested in working in tech but don’t have a formal education, take a look at the highest-paying jobs in tech that don’t require a degree.

Software Developer 

Software Developer Salary: $109,020

As one of the highest paying jobs in information technology, a software developer designs, installs, and tests software applications. Once they create the applications, they are also responsible for maintenance and updates. Their knowledge also allows them to identify areas that need improvement.

You will find software developers working closely with user experience designers, business analysts, and project managers. It is also one of the highest-paying IT jobs you can get without a degree. 

Data Scientist

Data Scientist Salary: $100,910

There are many pathways to becoming a data scientist without a degree. Whether you want to attend a data science bootcamp or sign up for an online data science course, you can start your career as a data scientist. Bootcamp programs feature in-demand knowledge and skills that equip professionals with career-oriented expertise. 

DevOps Engineer 

DevOps Engineer Salary: $99,462

DevOps engineers protect the cloud against any hacking attempts. They write high-quality code and develop secure software. Companies rely on them for building, testing, and maintaining infrastructure for an efficient development lifecycle. If you want to scale up in your career, you should consider obtaining DevOps certifications. It is one of the tech jobs that pay well for those without a degree.

Software Engineer 

Software Engineer Salary: $89,168

Software engineers can construct software applications from scratch. They use their knowledge and expertise in computer science and math to build, design, test, and debug applications. Often, you’ll find these professionals modifying existing applications in conjunction with software developers. They also work with web designers and programmers.

Backend Developer

Backend Developer Salary: $89,280

Backend developers need to understand development languages, databases, and API. These professionals build and maintain web applications from scratch. They also analyze, troubleshoot, and debug web applications. They work with front end developers, product managers, and principal architects to create a seamless experience. This is one of the best tech jobs to get without a degree because many coding bootcamps teach backend development skills.

UX/UI Designer

UX/UI Designer Salary: $78,300

UX/UI designers work to make the user experience of a website as optimal as possible. You can get this tech job without a degree by attending a UX/UI design bootcamp or completing an apprenticeship. You will need coding skills and a solid understanding of website functionality to do this job well. 

Front End Developer

Front End Developer Salary: $78,181

Front end developers are in charge of programming and designing the website appearance of a company. They ensure the user has a great experience when interacting with the company’s website by implementing visual and interactive elements. Their expertise allows them to find the perfect balance between functionality and design.

Technical Writer

Technical Writer Salary: $78,060 

Working as a technical writer is one of the tech jobs you can do without a degree or experience. However, you will need to have strong writing skills. As a technical writer, you will also need to grasp technical concepts and communicate them in an easy-to-understand manner. You may work on how-to guides, manuals, internal documents, and more.

Mobile Developer

Mobile Developer Salary: $76,523 

A mobile developer designs, codes, and tests mobile applications. Professionals in this field need programming skills in a variety of mobile-friendly languages, such as Java. In addition, you may also need to learn how to code apps for a variety of operating systems like Android, Windows, and iOS. 

Cyber Security Specialist 

Cyber Security Specialist Salary: $76,052

Cyber security specialists are responsible for building the security of network systems and data centers. This is why you’ll find many cyber security engineers working in banks and government offices. To increase your income potential, you should consider getting a certification like Certified Ethical Hacker or CompTIA Security+.

Data Analyst

Data Analysts Salary: $63,546

Data analysts are professionals who evaluate data and deliver key insights to business owners. Aspiring data analysts attend data analytics bootcamps to gain in-demand knowledge and experience in the field. These bootcamp programs are essential in helping professionals land entry-level tech jobs that don’t require a degree. 

Network Support Specialist 

Network Support Specialist Salary: $57,910

Network support specialists are responsible for analyzing, evaluating, and troubleshooting computer network problems. They are constantly creating backups while ensuring that the network is safe and secure. Most of the time, network administrators or computer systems administrators oversee the roles of network support specialists.

Digital Marketer

Digital Marketer Salary: $51,173

You can easily become a digital marketer without a degree. In fact, many digital marketers enter this field after graduating from a digital marketing bootcamp. As a digital marketer, you may work on ad campaigns, run social media accounts, develop marketing strategies, conduct market research, and more. You will also need to have a solid understanding of various digital platforms and how to best utilize them. 

Graphic Designer

Graphic Designer Salary: $50,710 

Working as a graphic designer is one of the best tech jobs to get without a degree because you primarily rely on your own creativity. Of course, you will also need to learn how to work with various tools and graphic design software as well as how to communicate with clients effectively. However, if you are a creative person, you can become a graphic designer without a degree.

Help Desk Analyst 

Help Desk Analyst Salary: $46,656

Help desk analysts play a vital role in resolving computer-related issues. These professionals usually achieve this through phone, email, or video support. As a result, they are the first line of defense when it comes to customer service for tech companies. This is one of the most popular tech jobs that don’t require a degree.

How Can I Learn the Skills to Get a Job in Tech Without a Degree?

 

Today, students and professionals are looking into non-traditional models of education to acquire their desired skills and education. Below you will find fantastic alternatives to university degree programs.

Coding Bootcamps

There are numerous coding bootcamps available to teach you technical and soft skills. These bootcamp programs feature immersive courses that help students learn programming tools. They also include career services and techniques to help students get a job after the coding bootcamp.

Aside from a career-oriented curriculum, you should also expect the bootcamps to provide industry events for networking. The bootcamp graduates often have opportunities to interact with top hiring managers from various tech companies at the end of bootcamp programs. These recruiting managers take this opportunity to hire new talent.

Apprenticeships and Internships

Apprenticeships and internships are fantastic opportunities to join the tech industry. Through tech apprenticeship programs, you can acquire skills and relevant education that correlates with employer needs. The paid work experience will be worthwhile as some apprentices end up securing a permanent position after completing their tech apprenticeship.

Tech apprenticeships might accept applicants from less traditional educational backgrounds, such as graduates of coding bootcamps. In fact, there are some amazing coding apprenticeships for bootcamp grads out there. On the other hand, computer science internships are often more restrictive. It is not uncommon for a company to require an intern to be pursuing a specific degree, to have already completed a certain amount of their coursework, and to have experience with relevant programming languages. When applying, make sure you have all of the desired qualifications.

Online Courses

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are essential for helping beginners in the field land a job seamlessly. Online courses are fantastic for helping professionals with no degrees attain in-demand knowledge and skills. If you are already a working professional, you should consider tech courses online as your main option because it’s the most flexible. 

In addition, there is a wide range of free online courses, so this is also a great option for those who are financially strained or just don’t want to spend money on a program.

Is it Hard to Get a Job in Tech Without a Degree?

It is not hard to get a job in tech without a degree. Most professionals assume that tech industry jobs are unattainable, but this isn’t true. With the right set of skills, education, and experience, you can easily land any job advertised in technology.

You can also increase your chances of landing tech jobs by acquiring soft skills. Try to gain leadership and communication skills to spruce up your resume. You can also polish your interview skills, which will come in handy during a job application. Now that you have learned how to get a job in tech without a degree, you can start working on a new career path. 

How to Get a Job in Tech FAQ