High-Paying Medical Careers That Don't Require a Degree

Looking to break into healthcare without the debt and years of school? The good news: several medical roles pay solid six figures or close to it, and you can qualify with just a certificate or diploma.

According to 2024 BLS data, here’s what’s hiring:

Surgical Technologist ($62,830/year) - Work in OR, handle equipment, assist surgeons. Takes ~24 months of training.

Licensed Practical Nurse ($62,340/year) - Patient care without the RN grind. 12-18 month program, then state licensing exam. Can ladder up to RN later if you want.

Paramedic ($58,410/year) - Fast-paced, adrenaline-heavy. You’ll need EMT cert first, then paramedic training. Total time: roughly 2+ years.

Massage Therapist ($57,950/year) - Hands-on work, can go solo or work in clinics. Diploma/certificate program + state licensing in most places.

Medical Records Specialist ($50,250/year) - Data entry and health info management. Short certificate program typical, some employers accept high school + healthcare experience.

The real play: Healthcare is recession-resistant and AI-proof compared to other fields. All these roles beat the $50K floor and sidestep the college debt trap.