For many, the idea of a successful career often comes hand-in-hand with a degree. But what if that isn’t the path for you? The great news is that there are plenty of rewarding and lucrative careers where you can thrive based on your skills, passion, and hard work—not a formal diploma. By focusing on building expertise and learning through non-traditional means, you can unlock the door to satisfying career options.

Here are ten unconventional careers you can pursue without a degree, including details about what they entail, how to get started, and even how much you could earn.

1. Freelance Writer

What It Entails: Freelance writing involves creating content for clients, such as blog posts, articles, website copy, and even marketing materials. You can carve out a niche in areas like technical writing, travel content, or personal storytelling.

Skills You’ll Need: Strong writing skills, creativity, and the ability to research and meet deadlines.

How to Get Started: Build a portfolio with sample articles or guest posts and market your services on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.

Potential Pay: Freelance writers generally earn $20 to $100 per hour, depending on their experience and niche. High-level content writers or copywriters can earn six-figure incomes annually.

2. Web Developer

What It Entails: Web developers design and build websites, ensuring functionality, excellent user experience, and attractive designs.

Skills You’ll Need: Proficiency in coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or Python, along with a keen eye for aesthetics and user navigation.

How to Get Started: Take online courses from platforms like Codecademy or freeCodeCamp. Create websites for small businesses or nonprofits to refine your skills.

Potential Pay: Junior web developers can start with annual salaries of $50,000, while experienced developers often earn $75,000 to $120,000 or higher.

3. Real Estate Agent

What It Entails: Real estate agents help clients buy, sell, or rent properties. This is a people-driven career where communication and negotiation are key.

Skills You’ll Need: Networking skills, market knowledge, and the ability to build trust with clients.

How to Get Started: Complete a real estate licensing course and pass your state exam. Then, join a brokerage to start gaining experience.

Potential Pay: The median annual income for real estate agents is $49,000, but top-performing agents can earn $100,000 or more per year, especially in high-demand markets.

4. Graphic Designer

What It Entails: Graphic designers create visual content ranging from logos and business branding materials to digital media and print designs.

Skills You’ll Need: Proficiency in design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Canva. Creativity and an understanding of visual branding principles are essential.

How to Get Started: Build a portfolio by completing mock projects or volunteering for small businesses. Use online portfolios like Behance to showcase your work.

Potential Pay: Beginner graphic designers can earn $30,000 to $50,000 annually, while experienced professionals or freelancers can make $60,000 to $80,000 or more, depending on client volume.

5. Digital Marketer

What It Entails: Digital marketers use online strategies to promote businesses, often through social media, email campaigns, and SEO.

Skills You’ll Need: Creativity, analytical thinking, and knowledge of platforms like Google Analytics, Facebook Ads, or email marketing tools.

How to Get Started: Take online courses offered by platforms like HubSpot Academy or Coursera. Offer services to small businesses to gain practical experience.

Potential Pay: Digital marketers earn an average of $50,000 to $65,000 yearly, with specialists in SEO or data analytics earning $75,000 or more.

6. Tradesperson (Plumber, Electrician, Carpenter)

What It Entails: Tradespeople install, maintain, or repair systems like plumbing, electrical connections, or intricate woodwork.

Skills You’ll Need: Technical aptitude, problem-solving, and hands-on expertise in your chosen trade.

How to Get Started: Enroll in a trade school or sign up for an apprenticeship program to gain certifications and hands-on experience.

Potential Pay: Skilled tradespeople earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually. With experience and specialization, incomes can cross $100,000, particularly for self-employed professionals.

7. Photographer

What It Entails: Photographers capture moments and stories using their creative eye and technical skills. They may specialize in weddings, portraits, nature photography, or commercial work.

Skills You’ll Need: Photography equipment knowledge, lighting, composition, and photo editing skills.

How to Get Started: Invest in a quality camera and start practicing. Build a portfolio by offering free or low-cost shoots initially, then grow your clientele.

Potential Pay: Freelance photographers often earn $35,000 to $50,000 annually. High-end wedding or commercial photographers can earn $75,000 or more with consistent bookings.

8. Virtual Assistant

What It Entails: Virtual assistants provide administrative support remotely, managing tasks like email organization, scheduling, and social media.

Skills You’ll Need: Proficiency with tools like Google Workspace and project management software, plus excellent communication skills.

How to Get Started: List your services on freelancing platforms or approach small business owners directly. Identify specific skills to help you stand out.

Potential Pay: Virtual assistants earn $15 to $30 per hour starting out, with experienced professionals charging $50 or more per hour for specialized work.

9. Social Media Manager

What It Entails: Social media managers create and execute strategies to grow a company’s online presence and engage their audience.

Skills You’ll Need: Creativity, understanding of algorithms, and the ability to interpret engagement metrics.

How to Get Started: Manage social accounts for a small business or nonprofit to build experience. Take courses in social media advertising to hone your skills further.

Potential Pay: Entry-level managers can earn $40,000 annually, while experienced specialists often make $60,000 to $80,000 or more.

A Career Beyond Degrees

These careers highlight how success isn’t tied to a specific educational path. You can excel in any of these fields with the right combination of passion, self-motivation, and a commitment to learning. Many offer solid income opportunities and the satisfaction of building a fulfilling career on your terms. Remember, it’s your skills and determination that matter most—so go ahead, take that leap, and carve out your unique path!