Best-paid jobs without a degree: your options

"It's only possible to be successful and earn money by studying!" Have you ever heard a sentence like that? If so, no wonder, this is a widespread superstition that no longer applies today. Today, all types of education are accessible to everyone and career success is no longer dependent on a degree.

Some of the best-paid jobs do not require academic training, but are based purely on practical skills, talent and ambition. But which professions fall into this category and which path leads to a top career? In this article, we show you the top 10 professions with the highest earning potential and the industries with the best prospects and their opportunities. 

Best salary even without a degree - is that even possible?

If you compare an artist with a doctor, or an electrician with an accountant, you don't have to think long to come up with the right answer: Of course!

Your character and flexibility are also two other decisive factors: A salesperson has a much easier time in their job if they are an extrovert and can butter up the customer.

In general, your practical skills often count more than an academic background, especially in craft, technical and creative fields. 

The important thing is: your career depends on your decisions, your attitude and your dreams. With or without a degree - there is no better or worse path, as long as it is the right one for you.

Top 10 best-paid professions without a degree

Here's an overview of the best-paid jobs that don't require a university degree. Salaries vary by industry, region and experience, but these professions offer strong potential:

1. Pilot (private or commercial)some text
   • Average salary: 4,600-9,200 € gross/month
   • Training: Flight school
2. Air traffic controllersome text
   • Average salary: 5,000-8,000 € gross/month
   • Training: State-regulated training
3. IT techniciansome text
   • Average salary: 3,000-4,000 € gross/month
   • Training: lateral entry or specialist training
4. Real estate agentsome text
   • Average salary: 3,000-5,000 € gross/month (+ individual commission that brokers receive after signing a purchase contract)
   • Training: None required, mostly IHK courses
5. Master craftsmansome text
   • Average salary: 4,000-5,000 € gross/month
   • Training: Craft apprenticeship with subsequent further training to become a master craftsman (e.g. at the Chamber of Crafts)
6. Train driversome text
   • Average salary: 3,000-4,000 € gross/month
   • Training: Railway-specific training courses
7. Insurance specialistsome text
   • Average salary: 3,000-4,500 € gross/month
   • Training: IHK courses or dual system
8. Design engineer in mechanical engineeringsome text
   • Average salary: 3,500-5,000 € gross/month
   • Training: Technical school or practice
9. Police officer (intermediate service)some text
   • Average salary: 3,000-4,500 € gross/month
   • Training: Police school
10. Businessman/woman in e-commercesome text
    • Average salary: 2,500-4,000 € gross/month
    • Training: Dual training

Source: Stepstone 2024, Indeed 2024

You have top opportunities in these sectors without a degree

As with the professions, there are also entire industries that focus more on your practical skills and your character:

• Skilled trades
  Here you can really get started with the right specialization. You can find out more in our article on the best-paid skilled trades.
• Technology
  IT and software development are perfect for career changers with passion and talent.
• Logistics & transportation
  Professions such as train driver or truck driver offer good salaries and continue to be in high demand.
• Healthcare
  Nurses and medical assistants are increasingly better paid, especially as the average age increases and more and more older people are dependent on help.

None of these sectors seem right for you? If you are still unsure which options are right for you, take a look at our overview of careers with a future or possible apprenticeships without a school-leaving certificate.

Start your career with WorkerHero

Ready to start your career? WorkerHero is the ideal platform to find your dream job, especially as a specialist.

Whether you have completed an apprenticeship, have practical experience or are a career changer - we will help you make the most of your opportunities. Even if you are not yet fluent in German, we will support you every step of the way, from your application to the start of your new job. Find the job that suits you perfectly with WorkerHero!