While a college degree is certainly great to have, a lack of one doesn’t mean that you’ll be relegated to dead-end jobs. There are all kinds of opportunities and exciting careers awaiting people who are willing to look outside of the college campus. Each of these career paths is worthwhile and can be met without a degree.

Medical Records and Health Information Technician

Part of the reason doctors are able to take such good care of us is that they have dedicated people like medical records and health information technicians. In this role, it is your responsibility to keep confidential information secure. This is far more extensive than just a simple file clerk role. According to Inner Body, “a medical records technician – now more commonly referred to as a health information technician (HIT) – transfers the data from a doctor’s notes into a patient’s permanent medical record, and the accuracy and timeliness of this data is all-important to appropriate patient treatment.” A medical technology certificate can be earned in up to about six months. Once you get started in your role, you can learn all about how to properly organize records so that they’re safe and easily retrievable.

Real Estate Agent

The world of helping people buy and sell homes is a richly satisfying one. According to Real Estate Elevated, “real estate agents aren’t confined to 9-5 schedules, therefore making it easier to take up other projects on the side, such as house flipping.” If you question whether or not you’ll be able to learn all these skills, fear not. You can eventually get started in the house flipping business as you get more experience. Find your state’s requirements for obtaining your license and start studying for the exam. This is your chance to enter into one of the most active industries.

Pilot

Being able to soar through the sky is something you have to pursue if your heart is in it. As a pilot, you can see the world and meet all kinds of interesting people. You can receive training at a flight academy. According to ATP Flight School, “taking an introductory training flight lesson will help you see first-hand the training, aircraft, and quality of instruction a flight school will offer you. It is also a great way to get a better sense of what it’s like to fly from behind the controls.” Once you have your license, the sky truly is the limit.

Pharmacy Technician

Have you ever noticed how long the line tends to be in the pharmacy department of your local supermarket? People always need assistance with getting prescriptions. According to The American Institute of Medical Sciences & Education, “with a pharmacy tech training course you can learn everything to be a successful pharmacy technician within seven to nine months of study, including a clinical internship. Short programs such as these help you get into the workforce without hindering your earning potential for long.” As a pharmacy technician, you can provide a tremendous service to customers. You can seek a certificate through a training program or work your way up through an entry-level pharmacy position.

Even if you don’t go to college, you still need to put in work. However, the type of work you put in for these careers is different and, you might find, more rewarding. Each of these provides an invaluable service to your community and the world at large. College degree or not, you should be proud to undertake any of these.

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