Most of us grew up with the notion that obtaining a college degree is necessary in order to land a high-paying job and achieve financial success.
Yet this isn’t the situation at all. The average salary in 2023 for college graduates is $55,260, according to a National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey. But, many people also make a very comfortable living without a college education. If you do not have a formal college education or plan not to have one, do not fret if you would be eligible for a high-paying job. There is a new category of employment that prioritizes skills over training and previous work experience. Jobs classified as “new-collar” demand some hard skills but may not necessitate a four-year college degree (or an extensive work history). A two-year degree program, an apprenticeship, a certificate program, or vocational training are common ways for individuals to acquire the skills they need for the job.