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For years, people have been told the same story: go to university, get a degree, and you’ll land a good job. But real life doesn’t always work like that. Not everyone wants to spend years in lectures or take on mountains of debt — and the good news is, you don’t have to. There are plenty of careers that don’t require a degree, and many of them offer solid pay, stability, and room to grow.
Think about it. From electricians and train drivers to web developers and dental nurses, thousands of people in the UK are building successful lives without ever setting foot in a lecture hall. These jobs may ask for an apprenticeship, a short course, or a licence, but what they really value is skill, reliability, and a willingness to learn.
In this guide, you’ll discover a range of careers that don’t require a degree — from trades and transport to tech and healthcare — along with what each job involves, the pay you can expect, and how to get started.
Boost Your Future with CPD Courses
Here’s the truth: choosing careers that don’t require a degree is only the beginning. To really shine, you need skills that prove you’re ready — and CPD courses are the fastest way to get there.
Think of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) as your shortcut. Instead of years at university, you can take focused, practical courses that give you the exact knowledge employers are looking for. Even better, they’re flexible, affordable, and recognised by industries across the UK.
That’s where Training Tale comes in. We make it simple to pick the right CPD-certified course — whether it’s plumbing, IT support, healthcare, digital marketing, or beyond. Our courses are built for people like you: ambitious, ready to learn, and eager to get started.
Why wait for “someday”? With CPD training, you can upgrade your skills today, boost your confidence, and step straight into a career you’ll be proud of.
32 Careers That Don’t Require A Degree
Skilled Trades (Hands-On, Future-Proof)
Not everyone wants an office job. Some of us prefer using our hands, solving real problems, and building things that last. If that’s you, skilled trades could be your perfect match. They’re some of the best paid jobs in the UK without a degree, and many are stable careers where you can go self-employed once you gain experience.
1) Electrician
Electricians keep the world running — from wiring homes to fixing faults in busy offices. It’s a job that will always be needed and often comes with strong earning potential.
What you’ll do: Install and repair electrical systems, test wiring, and make sure everything is safe.
- How to start: NVQ Level 3 apprenticeship or Experienced Worker route, plus the 18th Edition regs.
- Pay range: £26k–£45k.
If this sounds like your path, our CPD-certified Professional Electrician Course at Training Tale is a smart place to begin.
2) Plumber
A burst pipe or a broken boiler can turn someone’s day upside down — plumbers are the ones who save the day. It’s steady, practical work, and you’ll never be short of customers.
What you’ll do: Fit and repair water systems, install bathrooms, and handle emergency call-outs.
- How to start: NVQ Level 2/3 apprenticeship.
- Pay range: £24k–£46k.
Training Tale offers a CPD-accredited Professional Plumbing Course to help you take the first step.
3) Gas Engineer
When the heating breaks down in winter, gas engineers are the ones people count on. It’s reliable work with plenty of variety, from installations to safety checks.
What you’ll do: Install boilers, maintain heating systems, and carry out inspections.
- How to start: ACS training and Gas Safe registration.
- Pay range: £25k–£45k.
Our CPD-certified Gas Engineer Course at Training Tale can set you on the right track.
4) HVAC / Refrigeration Engineer
Every cool supermarket aisle and air-conditioned office depends on HVAC engineers. This role mixes technical skill with problem-solving, and it’s valued in almost every industry.
What you’ll do: Install and service air conditioning, fridges, and ventilation systems.
- How to start: F-Gas qualification plus apprenticeship.
- Pay range: £25k–£45k.
Take a look at our CPD-approved Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician course at Training Tale.
5) Carpenter / Joiner
If you love working with wood, carpentry gives you the chance to create things that last. From fitting kitchens to crafting bespoke interiors, it’s creative and hands-on.
What you’ll do: Build and install wooden structures like doors, windows, furniture, and roofs.
- How to start: NVQ apprenticeship and CSCS card for site access.
- Pay range: £24k–£40k.
Training Tale’s CPD-recognised Carpentry Course can help you build the skills you need.
6) Bricklayer
Bricklayers build the foundations of our towns and cities. It’s physical work, but there’s real pride in seeing a wall or house you’ve created. This is one of those decent jobs without a degree that can give you a steady income.
What you’ll do: Build and repair walls, chimneys, and stonework.
- How to start: NVQ apprenticeship and CSCS card.
- Pay range: £25k–£45k.
You can explore our CPD-certified Bricklaying Training Course at Training Tale.
7) Scaffolder
Scaffolders set up the platforms that allow other trades to do their work. It’s an active outdoor job with plenty of variety day to day.
What you’ll do: Put up and take down scaffolding, follow safety standards, and work at height.
- How to start: Start as a CISRS Labourer, then progress through Parts 1 and 2 to Advanced.
- Pay range: £25k–£51k.
8) Welder / Fabricator
From bridges to trains, welders are the people who join the metal that holds everything together. If you like precision and hands-on work, this could be a great fit.
What you’ll do: Weld and shape metal, read technical drawings, and test the quality of joints.
- How to start: City & Guilds welding courses plus coded tickets.
- Pay range: £25k–£45k.
9) Painter & Decorator
There’s nothing like walking into a freshly painted room. Painters and decorators make spaces look new again, and it’s one of the more easy and well-paid jobs UK people can step into quickly.
What you’ll do: Prepare walls, paint, apply wallpaper, and finish interiors.
- How to start: NVQ apprenticeship or trainee role.
- Pay range: £17k–£32k.
Check out our CPD-certified Painting and Decorating Course at Training Tale.
Move People & Things (Licences That Pay)
If you enjoy being on the move rather than stuck in one place, transport jobs could be a brilliant option. These roles don’t need a degree, but they do require licences — and once you’ve got them, you’ll have a career that can take you almost anywhere.
10) HGV / LGV Driver
Lorries keep the UK moving. From supermarket deliveries to construction materials, HGV drivers are behind the wheel, making sure everything gets where it needs to go. It’s steady work with good pay, especially if you like the freedom of the open road.
What you’ll do: Transport goods across the country (and sometimes abroad), load and unload safely, and keep records of your journeys.
- How to start: Get a Category C or C+E licence plus Driver CPC training.
- Pay range: £27k–£47k.
If this sounds like your kind of job, Training Tale offers a CPD-certified HGV Mechanic Course to help you prepare.
11) Train Driver
There’s something iconic about driving a train. Whether it’s carrying passengers or freight, train drivers have a role that combines responsibility with excellent pay. It’s often seen as one of the top paying jobs in the UK without a degree.
What you’ll do: Operate trains safely, follow strict timetables, and communicate with signal staff to keep everything running smoothly.
- How to start: Apply for trainee driver schemes with train operating companies (they’ll pay you while you train).
- Pay range: £27k–£60k.
12) Bus / Coach Driver
From local bus routes to long-distance coach tours, bus drivers keep people connected. If you enjoy meeting people and don’t mind early starts or shift work, this could be a great fit.
What you’ll do: Drive passengers safely, sell or check tickets, follow routes, and provide good customer service.
- How to start: PCV licence plus Driver CPC. Many employers fund the training.
- Pay range: £25k–£37k.
13) Taxi / Private Hire Driver
This is one of the most flexible careers out there. Taxi and private hire drivers set their own hours and can earn well depending on where and when they work. It’s one of the more popular jobs you can get without a degree if you value independence.
What you’ll do: Pick up and drop off passengers, plan routes, and keep your vehicle safe and presentable.
- How to start: Apply for a taxi or private hire licence from your local council, and make sure you’ve got the right insurance and vehicle.
- Pay range: £14k–£30k (earnings vary depending on hours and location).
Property & Public Service (Uniforms, Stability, Progression)
If you’re looking for a job with structure, stability, and a clear career path, the public service and property sectors are worth considering. These roles often come with uniforms, strong teamwork, and plenty of chances to move up the ladder.
14) Estate Agent / Lettings Negotiator
If you’re good with people and enjoy the buzz of sales, estate agency could be your thing. It’s fast-paced, and your income often grows with your effort.
What you’ll do: Show homes to buyers or tenants, negotiate deals, and help people through the moving process.
- How to start: Junior negotiator roles are open without a degree. Propertymark qualifications can help.
- Pay range: £23k–£40k (basic plus commission).
Training Tale’s CPD-certified Estate Agent Diploma can give you a strong foundation.
15) Rail Signaller (Network Rail)
Rail signallers are the unseen heroes of the railway. Without them, trains simply wouldn’t move safely or on time.
What you’ll do: Operate signalling equipment, control train movements, and keep the network running smoothly.
- How to start: Apply directly to Network Rail — they provide paid training.
- Pay range: £29k–£55k.
Our CPD-accredited Rail Training at Training Tale can help you understand the role before applying.
16) Firefighter
This is one of the most respected public service jobs. Firefighters don’t just put out fires — they save lives, help at accidents, and educate communities on safety.
What you’ll do: Respond to emergencies, rescue people, use specialist equipment, and carry out fire safety checks.
- How to start: Apply through your local Fire and Rescue Service, pass fitness tests and assessments.
- Pay range: £28k–£42k.
17) Police Constable (PCDA Route)
If you want to serve your community and protect the public, policing could be for you. With the PCDA route, you earn while you learn — no prior degree needed.
What you’ll do: Patrol neighbourhoods, respond to incidents, gather evidence, and support victims.
- How to start: Join through the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA).
- Pay range: £30k–£48k.
18) Prison Officer (HMPPS)
Prison officers play a tough but important role in keeping prisons safe and helping offenders turn their lives around.
What you’ll do: Supervise prisoners, maintain security, and support rehabilitation programmes.
- How to start: Apply directly to HMPPS — training is paid.
- Pay range: £33k–£40k.
19) Border Force Officer (Home Office)
If you’re interested in national security and international travel, this career could appeal. It’s challenging but rewarding.
What you’ll do: Check passports, screen goods, prevent illegal entry, and enforce customs rules.
- How to start: Apply through Home Office recruitment campaigns (includes vetting and training).
- Pay range: £28k–£34k.
20) Security Officer / Door Supervisor
From concerts to shopping centres, security officers keep people and places safe. It’s an active job that can lead to higher-paying specialist roles.
What you’ll do: Patrol sites, check IDs, manage crowds, and respond to incidents.
- How to start: Get an SIA licence for Door Supervisor or Security Guard work.
- Pay range: £20k–£35k.
Training Tale’s CPD-certified Door Supervisor Course is the perfect starting point.
Aviation (Big Responsibility, Strong Pay)
If you’ve ever dreamed of working in the skies — or helping others get there safely — the aviation industry has some amazing options. These roles don’t require a degree, but they do demand training, discipline, and a cool head under pressure. The rewards? Strong pay, travel opportunities, and the pride of being part of something huge.
21) Air Traffic Controller (ATC)
Air traffic controllers are the calm voices guiding pilots through take-off, flight, and landing. It’s a high-pressure job, but that’s why it’s one of the highest paying jobs in the UK without a degree. The responsibility is huge — every decision you make keeps thousands of people safe.
What you’ll do: Monitor aircraft movements, give pilots instructions, manage airspace, and keep flights on schedule while avoiding collisions.
- How to start: Apply to NATS’ trainee scheme. Training is paid, and the package during basic training is around £31.1k.
- Pay range: £46k–£100k+ once fully qualified.
22) Cabin Crew
Working as cabin crew is more than just serving food and drinks — you’re responsible for passenger safety and comfort at 35,000 feet. It’s a job for people who enjoy travel, teamwork, and meeting new faces every day.
What you’ll do: Carry out safety demonstrations, assist passengers, serve meals, and handle any in-flight emergencies.
- How to start: Apply directly to airlines. You’ll need to pass a medical, complete swim checks, and attend airline training.
- Pay range: £19k–£28k (plus allowances for overnight stays).
Training Tale offers CPD-certified Diploma in Air Cabin Crew Course to help you prepare for this exciting career.
Tech & Online (Skills > Certificates)
You don’t always need a degree to get into tech. What matters most here is skills — and the good news is, you can pick them up through short courses, self-study, or apprenticeships. If you enjoy solving problems or being creative online, these roles could be a great fit.
23) IT Support Technician / Helpdesk
Every office and business has tech headaches — that’s where IT support comes in. It’s a brilliant first step into technology and one of those good paying jobs without a degree if you enjoy problem-solving.
What you’ll do: Help people fix computer, network, and software issues, set up new equipment, and keep systems running smoothly.
- How to start: Entry-level service desk roles; CompTIA A+ is useful but not essential.
- Pay range: £24k–£36k.
You can start building your skills with Training Tale’s CPD-certified IT Security course.
24) Network Cabling / Telecoms Field Engineer
Every phone call and broadband connection relies on telecom engineers. If you don’t mind working outdoors and being hands-on, this role is in constant demand.
What you’ll do: Install fibre, connect network cabinets, test lines, and make sure people stay connected.
- How to start: Telecoms apprenticeships; ECS or CSCS card for site access.
- Pay range: £24k–£40k.
25) Web Developer (Portfolio Route)
Love the idea of building websites or apps? Web development is one of the most popular careers without degrees UK because your portfolio often matters more than your qualifications.
What you’ll do: Create websites, design web applications, write code, and fix bugs.
- How to start: Build projects, showcase them on GitHub, and apply for junior or freelance roles.
- Pay range: £20k–£60k.
26) Software Tester / QA
Behind every smooth app or website is a tester making sure it works. If you’re detail-focused and enjoy problem-solving, this could be for you.
What you’ll do: Run tests, report bugs, and check software quality before it launches.
- How to start: Apply for junior QA roles; ISTQB Foundation can be useful.
- Pay range: £18k–£27k (entry), £35k–£50k (experienced).
27) Digital Marketing Executive
If you’re creative and like working online, digital marketing is one of the good jobs with no qualifications that can grow into a high-income career.
What you’ll do: Run social media campaigns, manage ads, improve websites for search engines, and track results.
- How to start: Junior roles or apprenticeships; Google and CIM certificates help.
- Pay range: £23k–£50k.
Our CPD-accredited Digital Marketing and Advertising Course at Training Tale can help you break into the field.
28) Graphic Designer / Motion
From logos to social media posts, graphic designers bring ideas to life. It’s a job where your portfolio is more important than your degree.
What you’ll do: Design branding, create digital content, and sometimes work on animations or motion graphics.
- How to start: Build a strong portfolio and apply for junior in-house or agency roles.
- Pay range: £25k–£40k.
29) Video Editor
Love film, YouTube, or TikTok? Video editing is a growing field that mixes creativity with technical skill.
What you’ll do: Cut footage, add effects, sync sound, and produce polished videos for social, TV, or film.
- How to start: Build a strong showreel and apply for junior or assistant editor jobs.
- Pay range: £18k–£45k.
Health & Care (People-First Work)
If you’re someone who enjoys helping others, the health and care sector has plenty of options that don’t need a degree. These jobs may not always be glamorous, but they’re meaningful, people-focused, and can lead to stable, long-term careers.
30) Dental Nurse
Dental nurses are the extra pair of hands dentists rely on every day. It’s a team role where you’ll be helping patients feel at ease.
What you’ll do: Support dentists during treatments, sterilise instruments, and provide patient care.
- How to start: Apprenticeship; register with the GDC after training.
- Pay range: £25k–£31k.
Training Tale’s CPD-certified Dental Nurse course can help you get started.
31) Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians make sure the right medicines reach the right patients. It’s a career with responsibility and trust, but you don’t need a degree to get into it.
What you’ll do: Prepare and dispense medication, advise patients, and support pharmacists.
- How to start: Level 3 apprenticeship; register with the GPhC once trained.
- Pay range: £27k–£38k.
Take a look at Training Tale’s CPD-accredited Pharmacy Assistant and Technician course to start your journey.
32) Healthcare Assistant / Support Worker
Healthcare assistants are the backbone of the NHS. It’s one of the most rewarding no degree jobs UK if you enjoy caring for people directly.
What you’ll do: Provide bedside care, help patients with daily activities, and support nurses and doctors.
- How to start: Apply directly to the NHS or private care providers; complete the Care Certificate.
- Pay range: £24k–£27k (NHS roles usually Band 2).
Training Tale offers CPD-certified Healthcare Assistant Course to help you step confidently into this role.
Final Thoughts
University isn’t the only path to success — and by now, you’ve seen just how many careers that don’t require a degree can lead to stable, rewarding futures. Whether you picture yourself fixing electrics, helping patients, building websites, or even guiding planes safely through the skies, there’s a role out there waiting for you.
The key is taking that first step. You don’t need to wait years or take on debt — you can start building your skills today. One of the easiest ways to do that is through short, flexible CPD courses that give you the confidence and knowledge employers are looking for.
If you’re ready to explore, check out Training Tale’s Professional Development courses. It’s a great place to find CPD-certified training that can help you turn ambition into action — and land a career you’ll be proud of.
FAQs
1. What is the best career without a degree?
- Electrician is one of the best careers without a degree thanks to high demand and strong pay.
2. What jobs can I get into with no degree?
- You can get into trades, transport, tech, healthcare, and public service roles with no degree.
3. What jobs pay 35k a year without a degree?
- HGV drivers, plumbers, and IT support technicians can earn £35k a year without a degree.
4. What jobs pay 50k a year in the UK without experience?
- Train drivers and air traffic controllers can earn £50k+ without needing a degree.
5. What jobs earn 10K a month in the UK?
- Senior air traffic controllers, experienced electricians, or self-employed tradespeople can reach £10k a month.
6. What’s the easiest job to make 100k a year?
- Sales and real estate roles can reach £100k with commission, without requiring a degree.
7. What is the shortest career to study that pays well?
- HGV driving can be trained in months and pays well once licensed.
8. How rare is a 100k salary?
- It’s rare in the UK, but achievable in senior trades, aviation, or commission-based roles.
9. What is the easiest but high-paying job?
- Taxi driving offers flexible hours and decent pay, but train driving is one of the easiest structured paths to a high salary.
