Fastest-Growing Jobs that Don’t Require a Bachelor’s Degree

IBL News | New York

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released a range of jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree and are expected to be in high demand over the next ten years. [See the list below]

A high school diploma, associate’s degree, or a postsecondary non-degree award will be sufficient for these jobs. Community colleges often offer these programs.

Heightened demand for sustainable energy, an aging population, and renewed interest in self-care are three trends driving the rise of nearly all jobs, said Michael Wolf, Chief of Bureau of Labor Statistics Division at CNBC.

More specifically, the urgency of climate change and the resulting demand for sustainable energy are prompting wind turbine service technicians and solar photovoltaic installers.

Another high-demand area is healthcare. Occupational therapy assistants, physical therapy assistants, personal care aides, and physical therapist aides will become critical roles.

In addition, people are investing more in personal services like massages and self-enrichment courses, leading to increased demand for massage therapists and teachers.

Job Projected Growth Rate Median Pay Typical education needed for entry
Wind turbine service technicians 68.20% $56,230 Post-secondary non-degree award
Solar photovoltaic installers 52.10% $46,470 High school diploma or equivalent
Occupational therapy assistants 36.10% $62,940 Associate’s degree
Physical therapist assistants 35.40% $59,770 Associate’s degree
Home health and personal care aides 32.60% $27,080 High school diploma or equivalent
Massage therapists 32.20% $43,620 Post-secondary non-degree award
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers 27.40% $57,740 Post-secondary non-degree award
Physical therapist aides 25.30% $28,450 High school diploma or equivalent
Forest fire inspectors and prevention specialists 23.90% $42,150 High school diploma or equivalent
Self-enrichment teachers 23.50% $39,960 High school diploma or equivalent

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics  Get the data