In today’s evolving world, becoming an engineer without a degree is more possible than ever before. While traditional education has long been the standard path, alternative routes are opening doors for talented individuals who are passionate about engineering but may not hold formal qualifications. If you’re wondering how to become an engineer without a degree, this guide is for you.
This article will cover:
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Alternative pathways to engineering
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Skills you need
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Certifications and courses
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Top industries that hire non-degree engineers
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FAQs about becoming an engineer without a degree
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Related keywords: self-taught engineer, engineering certifications, engineering apprenticeship, engineering career path without degree, engineering jobs without degree.
Can You Really Become an Engineer Without a Degree?
Yes, it is possible to become an engineer without a traditional four-year degree! While some fields like civil or structural engineering legally require licensing that mandates a degree, many industries — especially software, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing — value skills, certifications, and experience just as much.
Employers today increasingly look for what you can do, rather than just where you studied.
How to Become an Engineer Without a Degree: Step-by-Step
Let’s break down the journey:
1. Choose Your Engineering Field
First, decide what type of engineer you want to become. Options include:
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Software Engineer
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Mechanical Engineer
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Electrical Engineer
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Civil Engineer (limited opportunities without licensure)
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Industrial Engineer
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Marine Engineer
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Aerospace Engineer (support roles)
Each field has its own skill demands, tools, and knowledge base.
2. Learn the Fundamentals
Even without college, you must master the fundamentals of engineering:
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Mathematics: Algebra, Calculus, Statistics
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Physics: Forces, Energy, Materials
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Technical drawing: Understanding blueprints and schematics
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Problem-solving skills: Logical and critical thinking
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Engineering software: AutoCAD, MATLAB, SolidWorks, or coding languages for software engineering
3. Take Online Courses and Certifications
Today, you can learn from world-class universities online — often for free or very low cost.
Best platforms for engineering learning:
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Coursera
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edX
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Udemy
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MIT OpenCourseWare
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Khan Academy
Top certifications to consider:
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Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT)
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Certified Engineering Technician (CET)
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AutoCAD Certification
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AWS Certified Machine Learning (for engineering roles in AI/ML)
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Google Professional Data Engineer Certification
Having recognized engineering certifications proves your knowledge to employers.
4. Build Hands-On Experience
Practical experience is your biggest asset. You can:
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Start personal projects
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Work on open-source projects (for software engineers)
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Volunteer for construction projects
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Take freelance gigs on platforms like Upwork
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Intern at startups
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Build prototypes or DIY kits (especially for electronics or mechanical fields)
Experience > Degree when you’re self-taught.
5. Network with Professionals
Networking is crucial when you don't have a degree to open doors for you.
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Join LinkedIn groups related to your industry.
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Attend webinars, workshops, and tech meetups.
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Connect with mentors who can guide you.
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Join engineering communities like IEEE, ASME, or GitHub (for software).
6. Build a Strong Portfolio
A portfolio proves your capabilities. Include:
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Projects you’ve worked on
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Problems you solved
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Designs or models you created
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Freelance work samples
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GitHub repositories (for coding)
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Technical writing or blogs you’ve authored
A portfolio can replace a degree in many job applications.
7. Apply for Engineering Jobs
Finally, start applying! Engineering jobs without a degree are abundant, especially in industries like:
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Software and IT
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Manufacturing
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Automation and Robotics
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Renewable Energy
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Startups and SMEs
Tailor your resume to highlight your skills, certifications, and projects, not just academic history.
Related Questions About Becoming an Engineer Without a Degree
Can You Be a Mechanical Engineer Without a Degree?
Yes, many manufacturing plants hire technicians and mechanical designers without degrees. However, to be called a "Professional Engineer (PE)," you’ll need licensing, which usually requires a degree. Without a degree, you can still work in mechanical engineering support roles like:
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Mechanical Design Technician
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Quality Control Inspector
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CAD Operator
Experience, technical skills, and certifications like AutoCAD matter most here.
How to Become a Software Engineer Without a Degree?
Software engineering is one of the easiest fields to enter without a degree. Here’s how:
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Learn coding languages: Python, JavaScript, C++, Java
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Build personal projects and contribute to open-source
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Take certifications (AWS, Google Cloud, Cisco)
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Master data structures, algorithms, and system design
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Showcase your portfolio on GitHub
Many major tech companies like Google, Tesla, and Apple have removed the degree requirement for many roles.
How to Become a Civil Engineer Without a Degree?
This is trickier. Civil engineering often requires licensure due to public safety concerns. However, you can work as:
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Civil Engineering Technician
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Construction Supervisor
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Site Inspector
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CAD Drafter
Experience, apprenticeships, and certifications can land you jobs that support civil engineers.
How to Become an Electrical Engineer Without a Degree?
You can work in electrical installation, maintenance, and design support roles by:
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Learning electrical basics and wiring codes
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Taking certifications like NEC (National Electrical Code)
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Doing hands-on projects and apprenticeships
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Mastering tools like PLC programming, Arduino, Raspberry Pi
Becoming a certified electrician can be a profitable alternative too.
Is Engineering Apprenticeship a Good Path?
Absolutely! Engineering apprenticeships are practical, paid, and recognized. Apprenticeships offer:
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On-the-job training
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Salaries while learning
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Certification upon completion
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A foot in the door for full-time engineering roles
Many companies prefer hiring apprentices over fresh graduates with no practical skills.
Industries Hiring Engineers Without a Degree
Surprisingly, many industries care more about skills than a diploma. Top fields hiring non-degree engineers include:
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Software Development
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Robotics and Automation
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Telecommunications
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Oil and Gas
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Construction Management
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Aerospace support roles
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Renewable Energy
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3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing
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Electronics repair and design
Startups, in particular, value innovation over formal education.
Essential Skills for Self-Taught Engineers
To succeed without a degree, you need to master these core skills:
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Technical skills: Design, programming, analysis
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Project management: Time and resource management
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Communication skills: Reporting findings, explaining designs
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Problem-solving skills: Quickly resolving technical issues
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Adaptability: Learning new tools and methods rapidly
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Team collaboration: Working with engineers, technicians, and clients
If you keep upgrading these skills, a formal degree will matter less and less.
Best Certifications for Engineers Without Degrees
Certification can replace a degree in many situations. Here are top choices:
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Certified Engineering Technician (CET) – For general engineering
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Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) – For manufacturing roles
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AWS Certified Solutions Architect – For tech roles
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CompTIA A+ / Network+ – For network engineering
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Google Data Analytics Certificate – For data engineers
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AutoCAD Professional Certification – For civil/mechanical designers
Certifications provide proof of expertise and boost credibility.
How Much Can a Self-Taught Engineer Earn?
Earnings vary by industry and experience. Here’s an average breakdown:
| Field | Entry-level salary (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| Software Engineering | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Mechanical Engineering (Support) | $45,000 – $70,000 |
| Electrical Engineering (Support) | $50,000 – $80,000 |
| Industrial/Manufacturing | $50,000 – $75,000 |
Building a portfolio, gaining certifications, and showcasing real-world experience can double your income over time.
Success Stories: Engineers Without Degrees
Here are some inspiring examples:
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Elon Musk – While he does have degrees, Musk has said, "Skills matter more than degrees."
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James Cameron – Director of "Titanic," studied engineering concepts independently.
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Jack Dorsey (Twitter founder) – Self-taught programming without formal CS degrees.
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David Karp (Tumblr founder) – Dropped out of high school and self-taught programming.
These stories show that passion, dedication, and self-education can outshine degrees.
Conclusion
You don’t need a four-year degree to become an engineer. By mastering fundamentals, gaining practical experience, earning certifications, networking smartly, and building a strong portfolio, you can create a successful engineering career path without degree.
If you’ve ever wondered how to become an engineer without a degree — now you know it’s absolutely possible. It’s not easy, but it’s achievable with passion, discipline, and continuous learning.
Start today. Your future as a self-taught engineer is waiting.
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