CareerCast.com Reports on Great Jobs Without a College Degree

Dental Hygienists, Online Advertising Managers and Web Developers Top the List

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May 17, 2012, 10:00 ET

CARLSBAD, Calif., May 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As college students scramble to find jobs after receiving their hard-earned degrees, CareerCast.com examines the best jobs for those without a college degree. In its new report, 20 Great Jobs Without a College Degree, CareerCast.com identifies careers where you can earn a good living with just a high school education. Although these jobs may require some training, they all offer a good salary, as well as growth potential. At the top of the list: dental hygienists, online advertising managers, web developers, medical secretaries and paralegal assistants.

"Even with a college degree, finding a good job in today's economy is hard and can be very time consuming. Although those with degrees often earn more money, you can still earn a very good living without one," says Tony Lee, publisher, CareerCast.com.

In most cases, a college education does pay. The average American worker will earn approximately one million dollars more during his or her career with a four-year degree. The average starting salary for someone with a college degree is $51,000, while a job with no degree requirement starts at $28,350. The top average salary for people with a degree is $130,600, those without a degree top out at $79,150.

To determine if a college degree is right for you, CareerCast.com suggests you carefully choose your field of employment. Even a modest education will cost over $50,000, and you may incur student loans.

"If you want to earn a lot of money without a college degree, take a look at the amount of training you'll need, then focus on a job that can still provide a satisfying, comfortable career," says Lee.

CareerCast.com's 20 Great Jobs Without a College Degree: