This fall, there was a notable decrease in high school graduates enrolling in college compared to the previous year. This trend is partly driven by high tuition costs and evolving perspectives on the necessity of a college degree.

For those exploring options other than a traditional four-year college right after high school, YSL News has looked into various programs that can pave the way to lucrative careers. These alternatives include apprenticeships in teaching and construction, as well as coding boot camps and courses focused on content creation.

It’s essential for young individuals to recognize the range of career paths available to them through these alternatives, especially in fast-growing and in-demand sectors, according to Jean Eddy, president and CEO of the nonprofit organization American Student Assistance.

Teaching apprenticeships and innovative ‘grow your own’ programs

While a public school teaching job generally necessitates eventually obtaining a four-year degree, entering the field doesn’t always require immediate college enrollment post-high school.

Several states are developing and funding alternative pathways into the education sector to improve teacher diversity and address the shortage of teachers.

Various teaching apprenticeships and residency programs allow participants to earn college credits as they work in classrooms alongside experienced teachers as paraprofessionals and assistants. This is detailed by the National Council on Teacher Quality, a think tank based in Washington D.C.

These programs often require participants to be enrolled in some type of educational training, though it doesn’t always need to be at a four-year institution, according to Heather Peske, president of the National Council on Teacher Quality.

In 2023, over 7,400 individuals chose to pursue teacher apprenticeships, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that teachers, from kindergarten through high school, earn an average salary exceeding $60,000 annually.

Coding boot camps and content creation courses

Success as an internet content creator doesn’t always hinge on having a college degree, but possessing skills in business and marketing can be very beneficial.

Platforms like Coursera and other online course providers offer learning opportunities for those wanting to develop these skills, making it possible to enter the field without a traditional college education. The costs of the programs can vary.

Adobe, a leading software company, has launched a digital academy that teaches participants about artificial intelligence, content creation, and essential digital marketing skills.

Opportunities in internet marketing and content creation are on the rise, as noted by Stacy Martinet, vice president of marketing strategy and operations at Adobe, in correspondence with YSL News.

“The growth of the creator economy and advancements in AI technology have rapidly increased the demand for expertise in content creation and marketing, creating numerous new opportunities across various industries,” Martinet expressed.

For those looking to work in fields like computer science or artificial intelligence, enrolling in coding boot camps is a viable option.

Columbia University describes coding boot camps as “intensive courses” that provide candidates with essential skills and hands-on training to prepare them for the job market.

“Coding boot camps shorten the time and reduce the cost compared to a conventional college degree by concentrating on the technical skills that employers seek,” Columbia University explains. “Consequently, boot camps can offer a faster route to a fulfilling technical career.”

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2023, jobs in these sectors are expected to provide a living wage.

Apprenticeships in Construction

Construction apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular, as indicated by data from the U.S. Department of Labor.

In 2023, over 340,000 individuals enrolled in construction apprenticeships, marking a notable rise over the past five years, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor.

The North America’s Building Trades Unions, which represents more than 3 million members in the U.S., offers construction apprenticeship opportunities for those interested in entering the field.

As stated on the labor organization’s website, participants gain essential skills for constructing roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure “through a debt-free, technologically advanced education.”

A variety of construction jobs are currently in high demand according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For instance, boilermakers had an average salary of $71,140 in 2023. Meanwhile, construction and building inspectors earned about $67,700, and elevator and escalator repairers had an average income of $102,420 in the same year, as reported by federal data.