Blog: Vocation Station – Careers that Pay Well without a 4 Year Degree

Raising a child alone on minimum wage is hard, but there are careers that pay well and don’t require an expensive 4 year degree. Read on to learn more.

3 careers that pay well with 2 years of education or less

Servicing heating and air conditioning systems

A career in HVAC requires formal training at a technical college, trade school, or community college, but often times service companies will hire employees while they are attending classes. Curriculums range from 6 months to two years, and classes are available during the day, evening, and on weekends, allowing for flexibility in your schedule. Upon completion of an educational program, you will become a paid apprentice and you will work full time. Apprenticeships last between 3 and 5 years and may require additional class work. HVAC technicians work traditional hours, so finding good daycare isn’t a problem, and the median salary for this career is just over $40,000 annually. Financial aid and grants are available, and often employers pay partial or full tuition so their employees can advance.

Dental Hygienist

If you’re science-minded and good with people, a career as a dental hygienist can provide a very secure future for you and your family. Hygienists clean teeth, take mouth X-rays, and check for diseases of the mouth, tongue, and gums. It’s also a very social job because you will interact with patients all day. A degree in dental hygiene will take two years to complete and financial aid is available. The median income for a dental hygienist is just under $75,000 annually. Job prospects are very good in this career because so many current hygienists are approaching retirement age. Additionally, because many dental practices now offer evening appointments, your work schedule can offer flexibility. Visit https://explorehealthcareers.org/…/dental-hygienist/ to learn more.

Web Design

Technology offers many careers that pay well. If you have good computer and language skills, web design might be a great option. Classes in web design are available on-line, through local training seminars, and at community colleges. Kahn Academy, EdX and Coursera offer on-line training that allow a self-motivated student to work at their own pace and nearly for free. If you can motivate yourself to learn and create a portfolio, you could become a freelance web designer earning a great income in just a few months and for little to no cost.

Finding a career that supports a child can feel like an endless journey, but you do have options. Trade schools, community colleges, and on-line courses offer reasonably priced educational opportunities that can lead to fulfilling and profitable careers.Visit our website at stgiannasplace.org for more information about programs to help pregnant women in crisis and their babies.

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