Recent statistics show that almost 85% of the 18-24 demographic are enrolled in some form of college. There are two main reasons for this surge in college applications. The first is because lack of employment, due to the recession, has given many students impetus to remain in school for longer in the hopes of securing a better job in a more secure economy. The second, and perhaps more pertinent reason, is because community schools and trade schools are increasing in popularity and offering students a more affordable and flexible option.

A four year college might not be for you but luckily, there are more options than ever. Two year colleges, vocational schools, online schools and community colleges offer programs to suit almost everyone.
Check out these top online colleges that offer a variety of degrees:

Baker College
Kaplan University
Berkeley University
Everest College
Virginia College
Strayer University

CNN.com and Yahoo.com both feature articles that outline high paying jobs that don’t require a Bachelor’s degree.

Check out these top paying jobs:

1. Air Traffic Controller: Annual Salary: $86,860-142,210
Controlling air traffic is an important job with a high level of responsibility. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the median 50% earned between $86,860-142,210, with good benefits. Air traffic controllers are eligible to retire at age 50 with 20 years of service, or after 25 years at any age.

2. Head Carpenter: Annual Salary: $63,345
Main duties, according to cnn.com: “Leading the on-site completion of construction projects and performing all types of carpentry work and finishing.”

3. Advertising Agents: Annual Salary: Annual Salary: $42,750
20% of advertising agents have a high school degree or less, and 10% have an Associate’s degree. Advertising agents create print, web and television campaigns for clients.

4. Occupational Therapists Assistant: Annual Salary: $42,060
Occupational Therapists usually require an Associate’s degree or certificate. They assist occupational therapists who use therapy to help patients who have lost their motor skills.

5. Physical Therapists Assistants: Annual Salary: $41,360
Primary duties can be carried out either in a home or a hospital; they include relieving patient’s pain, overcoming disabilities and improving mobility.

6. Automobile service station manager: Annual Salary: $72,246
Primary duties include supervising gas stations and planning and implementing policy and procedure like hours of operation, workers’ duties and prices for products and services.

7. Margin department supervisor: Annual Salary: $83,579
Primary duties include overseeing a company’s credit department, which manages customer credit accounts and approves or denies credit to customers.

There are countless options for those without a college degree. Experience is essential and so breaking into the job market earlier may give you an advantage.