How to Get an Entry-Level Tech Job Without a Degree

According to U.S. Census data, more than 60% of adults over age 25 do not have a bachelor's or higher degree.

When companies have strict degree requirements, millions of people are left out of consideration for roles they may be qualified for.

As we covered on our page about top-paying tech jobs that don’t require a college degree, there are a growing number of exciting opportunities in tech for people without degrees. This is because:

• Tech worker demand is still growing.
• Not everyone has access to higher education (and that shouldn’t mean they’re shut out of an entire field).
• Technical training opportunities outside of college programs have blossomed.

In this post, we’ll focus on that third bullet point. We’ll explore training opportunities outside of traditional higher education that will help you launch a new career in tech.

The Trend of Loosening Degree Requirements 

Instead of looking at where someone went to school and what degree they have, many companies are now hiring for entry-level tech jobs based on skills, motivation, and other experiences that can translate into tech. 

Big tech companies like Apple, Google, IBM, and others have started to take action. They’ve dropped degree requirements for certain roles, and many other companies are following suit to diversify teams and meet tech worker demand. 

• 50% of IBM’s U.S. job openings do not require a four-year degree.

• 45% of companies plan to eliminate bachelor's degree requirements in 2024.

This trend is growing year-over-year and represents an exciting opening for even more passionate people to get into tech. 

5 Ways to Train: Get an Entry-Level Tech Job Without a Degree

1. Bootcamps

A tech bootcamp is a concentrated course that teaches essential skills and provides real-world training. Bootcamps can provide an accelerated path to a rewarding tech career at a fraction of the cost of a college degree.

Tech Elevator coding bootcamps, for example, provide proven paths into tech for those interested in software development. The success of this training model has manifested in more than 4,500 graduates working as software developers across the vast tech landscape.

2. Self-Education

There are incredible amounts of free and paid training resources available online, in books, and via one-off courses on various topics. For some, learning on their own is the preferred method for testing their interest in tech and finding out what areas they enjoy. Those who are disciplined can even self-educate enough to be prepared for tech jobs.

3. In-House Training Programs

Some companies offer in-house training opportunities that allow workers to upskill into different roles, including jobs in tech. For companies, this can boost retention and keep talent in-house; for employees, it represents opportunities for growth while being able to stay where they’re already familiar. 

4. Internships

Once you’ve built up some tech skills, a tech internship can give you valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and (in many cases) compensation. A tech internship is a great opportunity to gain on-the-job experience that can set you up to be hired full-time at the company, or provide the opportunity to boost your resume as you look elsewhere.

5. Apprenticeships

A tech apprenticeship is a structured program that offers hands-on training and mentoring. These apprenticeships help you get your foot in the door and build relationships within the industry. Many apprenticeships can lead to full-time job opportunities. 

With so many different training options  – to fit the needs of different people, personalities, and resources – now is an exciting time to enter the tech field. All five of the training options listed above can lead to exciting entry-level tech job opportunities.