How to Break Into Tech Without a Degree (Coding Bootcamps, Certifications)
Introduction
The tech industry is one of the few fields where skills often outweigh degrees. Companies like Google, Apple, and IBM no longer require degrees for many roles—opening doors for bootcamp grads, self-taught coders, and certification holders.
But how do you stand out without a traditional CS degree? This guide covers:
Let’s get you hired!
1. Why You Don’t Need a Degree to Work in Tech
Industry Shifts:
- 72% of hiring managers prioritize skills over degrees (LinkedIn)
- Google, Apple, Netflix have removed degree requirements
- Bootcamp grads earn $70K+ on average (Course Report)
Top Tech Roles That Don’t Require Degrees:
- Web Developer
- UX/UI Designer
- Data Analyst
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Cloud Support Engineer
2. 3 Proven Paths Into Tech (No Degree Needed)
Path 1: Coding Bootcamps (3–6 Months)
Best For: Career-changers needing structure & job support
Top Bootcamps:
- General Assembly (Full-stack development)
- Flatiron School (Data science)
- Le Wagon (Web dev)
Cost: $5K–$20K (Many offer income-share agreements)
Outcome:
- 83% of grads land tech jobs within 6 months
- Average salary increase: $26K (SwitchUp)
Path 2: Certifications (1–6 Months)
Best For: Affordable, flexible learning
Top Certs:
- Google IT Support Certificate ($49/month)
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner ($100 exam)
- CompTIA Security+ ($392 exam)
Cost: $50–$500
Outcome:
- Cybersecurity cert holders earn $90K+ (Global Knowledge)
- AWS certs boost salaries by 25%
Path 3: Self-Taught + Portfolio (6–12 Months)
Best For: Highly disciplined learners
Free Resources:
- freeCodeCamp (Full curriculum)
- The Odin Project (Web dev)
- Harvard’s CS50 (Computer science basics)
Key: Build 3–5 portfolio projects (e.g., a React app, data analysis case study).
3. How to Get Hired Without a Degree
Step 1: Build a Killer Portfolio
- GitHub: Host code samples
- Personal Website: Showcase projects (Use Carrd or Webflow)
- Case Studies: Explain your problem-solving process
Example Project Ideas:
- A Python script that automates Excel reports
- A website redesign (Before/After Figma mockups)
- A data dashboard using Tableau
Step 2: Network Strategically
- LinkedIn: Post project updates, comment on tech posts
- Meetups: Attend local hackathons (or virtual ones)
- Cold Outreach: Message hiring managers:
“Hi [Name], I noticed [Company] values [skill]. I built [Project]—could I share how it aligns with your needs?”
Step 3: Ace Technical Interviews
- Practice on LeetCode (For coding interviews)
- Use Pramp (Free mock interviews)
- Prepare STAR stories (For behavioral questions)
4. Salary Expectations (Entry-Level)
Role
Front-End Developer
Data Analyst
IT Support Specialist
UX Designer
Avg. Salary (No Degree)
$65K-$85K
$60K-$75K
$50K-$65K
$70K-$90K
Tip: Negotiate by highlighting portfolio work over credentials.
5. Success Stories
From Bartender to Software Engineer (6 Months)
- Path: General Assembly bootcamp → $85K job at startup
- Key: Built a bar inventory app for portfolio
From Teacher to Data Analyst (1 Year)
- Path: Google Data Analytics Cert + freelance projects → $72K role
- Key: Created education data case studies
Key Takeaways
Action Step: Choose one path and commit to 2 hours/day for 3 months.
