Not going to college used to feel like the right call, didn’t it? Maybe it wasn’t worth the debt, the time, or the hype. That decision may feel like it’s holding you back now, as you watch coworkers snag promotions or find industries where a degree is the starting point, not the finish line. If you’ve been feeling stuck in a cycle of hourly jobs or like your career isn’t moving forward, the good news is that you have options—and they don’t have to look like the traditional college route you’ve worked so hard to avoid.

You don’t need a four-year classroom experience (or tens of thousands of dollars in loans) to gain the skills, credibility, and career mobility you want. Here’s how to take your next step—and why it might be time to reconsider a degree program that actually works for your goals and your budget.

Step 1: Get Clear on Where You’re Headed 

Before you can make moves, you need to know where you want to go. Where do you see yourself in five years? What kind of career excites you? Maybe workplace flexibility is a top priority, or perhaps you’re passionate about an industry like tech, marketing, or business leadership. The clearer you are about what you want, the easier it is to identify which skills, certifications, or credentials will get you there. 

For example, if you’re aspiring to work in project management, learning tools like Agile or obtaining a PMP certification might open doors. If you want to pivot into tech, skills like coding, UX design, or data analysis are highly valued. Not sure where to start? Explore job boards and see what qualifications repeat across postings for roles you’re interested in. This is your blueprint. 

Action Step: Make a list of roles you’d love to pursue and write down the requirements they list most often. These are your targets. 

Step 2: Master the Alternatives 

If you’re trying to save money while building a competitive skill set, there are plenty of options to help boost your career value. 

Certifications 

Roles in IT, data analysis, digital marketing, and similar fields often prioritize industry certifications over traditional degrees. Programs like Google’s Professional Certificates, AWS cloud certification, or HubSpot’s marketing credentials can often be completed in weeks, not years, and cost a fraction of what traditional college courses do. 

Online Courses 

Platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, and LinkedIn Learning provide courses created by industry leaders. These can be great for expanding your knowledge in areas like communication, business strategy, or software skills wherever you have gaps. 

Networking 

Even without a traditional degree, knowing the right people can open doors. Attend local events in your field, leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in roles you aspire to, and consider joining industry-specific communities. While this approach doesn’t provide a formal credential, it can lead to crucial advice, mentorship, or even a job opportunity. 

While these alternatives are a great foundation, they can’t provide everything. For some career paths, a degree isn’t just a bonus—it’s a non-negotiable. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. 

Step 3: Reconsider College—On Your Terms 

The old version of college doesn’t fit everyone. You don’t need ivy-covered campuses or ridiculous sticker prices to gain the degree-level skills and credibility some employers require. What you need is a program that delivers results without draining your wallet or your time. 

That’s where Nexford comes in. Nexford’s flexible, accelerated degree programs are designed specifically for people like you. If you’re skeptical, that’s understandable. The thought of returning to education can feel overwhelming, especially if you already work full-time or worry about costs. But Nexford flips the script by working for you—not the other way around. 

Here’s why Nexford is different (and why it might be the smartest step you take): 

1. Affordable Tuition Without the Prestige Tax 

Traditional universities often charge sky-high prices for prestige and facilities you’ll never use. Nexford strips away the non-essentials, focusing on delivering practical skills at a price point that makes sense. With flat-rate monthly tuition, there’s no sneaky debt awaiting you—just an investment in your future. 

2. Job-Driven Curriculum 

Most university programs focus on theory. Nexford’s programs are the opposite—they emphasize real-world, actionable skills that help you stand out in your career. Are you looking for a degree that teaches you how to lead a team, analyze data, or start your own business? That’s exactly what you’ll gain here. 

3. Flexibility that Works with Your Life 

If juggling studies and work feels like an impossible task, Nexford’s fully online structure offers flexibility you probably never thought a college could. You can complete coursework on your own schedule, so there’s no need to quit your job—or pause your income—while earning your degree. 

4. Credibility That Employers Recognize 

Still worried that a degree might not pay off? Nexford’s focus on career growth means skills taught in these programs are designed to align with what employers need. Credibility doesn’t have to mean overpaying for a big name; it means delivering results. And with Nexford, credibility comes without the crushing burden of debt. 

Simply knowing your options isn’t enough. It’s time to put a concrete action plan in place. Follow these steps to get moving today:

• Refine Your Vision: Decide where you want to go and what skills or credentials you’ll need to get there. 
• Pick Short-Term Wins: Enroll in a certification program or online course to boost your marketable skills right now. 
• Evaluate Degree Options: Explore Nexford’s degree programs to determine how they align with your goals—and work within your budget and timeline. 
• Set a Timeline: Whether it’s earning a certification in two months or a degree in two years, set a clear timeline to keep yourself accountable. 
• Leverage Support: Whether it’s joining professional groups, working with mentors, or networking with Nexford’s global alumni community, surround yourself with resources and people that will support your growth. 

Start Your Future Now

It’s a myth that skipping college means you’re stuck forever. There’s a path forward—it’s just about finding the one that fits your life. Whether that’s through certifications, networking, or Nexford’s affordable, skill-driven programs, the next step is yours to take. 

Don’t wait five more years to see where life takes you. Set your plan in motion today, knowing you can achieve career growth without going broke or compromising your lifestyle. 

The future doesn’t have to hinge on the college experience you didn’t take. With the right approach, tools, and mindset, you’ll find the road to success is still wide open.