You don’t need four years of college to start earning a good living. Many trade school and technical programs can be completed in just a few months to two years, leading to careers that pay well above the national average. Below are some of the best-paying jobs that require less time in school, with training paths ranging from short certificate programs to associate degrees.

Training Lengths at a Glance

• 3–6 weeks certificate or license training
• 3–6 month certificate programs
• 1–2 year diplomas and associate degrees

Skilled Trades Careers

Welding Technology

Welders bond metals for industries ranging from construction to aerospace. Most employers prefer formal training (6–12 months) plus certification. Salaries vary widely, with an average of $52,640 in 2023 and specialty welders, like underwater welders, earning over $100,000. Find a welding training program.

Electrician

Electricians install and repair electrical systems. Training usually begins with a trade school program (about 1 year), followed by a 4–5 year apprenticeship. The average salary was $67,810 in 2023, with top earners making over $100,000.

HVAC Technician

HVAC technicians install and maintain heating and cooling systems. Training takes a few months to 2 years, with options for certification such as NATE or EPA 608. The average salary was $59,620 in 2023. Find an HVAC program near you.

Healthcare Careers

Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists typically complete a 2-year program. They earn an average of $89,890 annually, with top earners over $100,000. Find a dental hygiene program.

Medical Assistant

Medical assistants handle both clinical and administrative tasks. Training can be as short as 6 weeks for a certificate or up to 2 years for an associate degree. Median pay was $43,350 in 2023. Find a medical assistant program.

Medical Billing & Coding

Billing and coding specialists process health records and insurance claims. Training usually takes 1–2 years. Average salaries in 2023 were $53,690 for coders and $47,120 for billers. Explore billing & coding programs.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered nurses can enter the field with a 2–3 year associate degree or a diploma program. RNs earned an average of $94,480 in 2023, with the top 10% making over $130,000. Find a local RN program.

Creative & Tech Careers

Graphic Designer

Graphic designers create visual content for print and digital media. Many complete a 2-year associate degree. The average salary was $64,700 in 2023, with top designers earning over $100,000. Find a design program.

Web Developer

Web developers build and maintain websites. Most enter the field with a 2-year technical degree, though some pursue bachelor’s programs. Average salary was $95,570 in 2023, with top earners over $150,000.

Paralegal

Paralegals assist attorneys with research, drafting, and case prep. Most complete a 2-year associate program. Average salaries reached $66,460 in 2023. Explore criminal justice programs.

Pastry Chef

Pastry chefs train through 1–2 year culinary programs. Average salaries for chefs overall were $35,550 in 2023, but top earners reached over $90,000. Find a pastry chef program.

Other High-Paying Options

Truck Driver

CDL training takes as little as 6 weeks. Truck drivers earned about $55,990 in 2023, with experienced drivers making $75,000+. Find CDL training.

Electrical & Electronics Engineering Technician

These technicians help design and build electrical equipment. A 2-year associate degree is typical. Average salaries were $74,440 in 2023. Find an electrical technician program.

Related articles:

• The Benefits of Pursuing a Career in the Skilled Trades
• Highest-Paying Trade School Careers