How to Get Ahead Without A College Degree

In a world where everybody exalts the importance of high education, you may think there is no future for those without a college degree. However, the chances to have a successful career without a degree are becoming more common and effortless than ever. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Analyze why you don’t have a college degree. If it is due to lack of time, consider enrolling in an online university. If it is lack of money, look for community colleges or explore loans or grants through your place of employment or directly from the government. Even if you don’t have a degree right now, there is no reason why you couldn’t work towards it slowly.
2. Choose a field where a college degree is not required. People in fitness professions can earn high salaries without the need for a university diploma. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) of the U.S. Department of Labor, so do people who work as home health aides, dental assistants and pharmacy technicians.
3. Consider taking courses or workshops to improve your resume’s education section. Community colleges, adult education centers and even online schools offer short certifications that sound great and can give your resume a great push forward.
4. Focus on work experience. If your education is not enough to help you land a better position, work on making the most of your present job, so you can highlight job achievements in your resume. Future employers would be more impressed by the fact that you helped a company land a multi-million dollar deal than by the name of your former university.
5. Work on establishing yourself as an expert. Become a speaker, organize a workshop, enter (and win) contests or write a paper or book on the subject. A lot of experts don’t have the backing of a college degree, but have the media respect to prove their value and knowledge.

Tips & Warnings

• Work on your confidence. Don’t play yourself down because you lack a college degree. Be sure of your value as an employee and others will see it, too.

Who Can Help:

• Earn an Associate's, Bachelor's or Master's Degree from the University of Phoenix
• University of Phoenix, degree Programs to Fit Your Life.