6 High-Paying Careers You Can Upskill Into Without Going Back to School

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Even with a bachelor’s degree and a steady job, the pay isn’t always enough. But before you invest more time and money into graduate school, consider a different path.

Consider these careers, identified by MyPerfectResume, where certifications, on-the-job experience or a professional exam can help you upskill into higher-paying roles.

Software Developer

• Annual wage midpoint: $131,450
• Projected growth rate (2024-2034): 15%, much faster than average

If you’re interested in developing software, from analyzing customer needs to testing the final product, becoming a software developer is an option. To upskill into this role, you’ll need to already have a bachelor’s degree in a related area. You’ll also have to be willing to learn some programming language like Python or JavaScript, build a portfolio and apply for junior developer positions to break into the field.

Data Scientist

• Annual wage midpoint: $112,590
• Projected growth rate (2024-2034): 34%, much faster than average

To become a data scientist, you’ll need to already have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, computer science or a related area. Then, you’ll need to upskill by learning Excel, Python and SQL. Google’s Data Analytics certificate can also be helpful.

Computer Systems Analyst

• Annual wage midpoint: $103,790
• Projected growth rate (2024-2034): 9%, much faster than average

Computer systems analysts help businesses make their computer systems more efficient. Having a related bachelor’s degree can be helpful, but a liberal arts degree plus information technology experience also can be a basis for landing a role. Upskilling is gained through IT experience and continuing education courses.

Personal Financial Advisor

• Annual wage midpoint: $102,140
• Projected growth rate (2024-2034): 10%, much faster than average

A bachelor’s degree in almost any course of study is the typical entry point for a personal financial advisor. After that, you’ll need to complete on-the-job training under a senior advisor for more than a year to gain the skills and competencies needed to work on your own. Passing the Series 7 and 66 exams is also a requirement to start advising on your own.

Management Analyst

• Annual wage midpoint: $101,190
• Projected growth rate (2024-2034): 9%, much faster than average

A management analyst focuses on helping organizations work more efficiently, specifically by showing managers how to lower costs and increase revenue. Having a bachelor’s degree in engineering, social science or business is the typical way to break into the role. Additionally, work experience in a related field is also helpful. Upskilling with Lean Six Sigma or project management courses may give you a competitive edge.

Project Management Specialist

• Annual wage midpoint: $100,750
• Projected growth rate (2024-2034): 6%, faster than average

As an entry point, you’ll need to already have a bachelor’s degree in business, project management or a related area. Upskill by getting a Certified Associate of Project Management certification. To get the certification, you’ll need at least 23 hours of project management education, which can be fulfilled with a Google Project Management: Professional Certificate or through other certification sources. Then, you’ll need to take the CAPM exam.

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