10 answers
11
Updated 779 views

What are the best ways to break into the tech industry without a computer science degree?

Your current situation*: What's your current job, career stage, or education level?

career technology computer-science
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
11

10 answers

2
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Alex’s Answer

Hi,

You can absolutely break into the tech industry without a Computer Science degree! Start by learning the skills you need through self-study on platforms like Udemy. Bootcamps are also a great way to gain practical knowledge and earn certifications. Once you have the basics, build your experience with personal projects. Freelancing on platforms like Upwork can also give you real-world experience.

Networking is important, too. Attend tech meetups, hackathons, and industry events to connect with others. Use LinkedIn to engage with professionals, share your insights, and showcase your projects.

Remember, not everything is learned in school. Even without a Computer Science degree, you can succeed in tech. I have a degree in Information Technology and started as an IT instructor. Now, as I move from academia to the tech industry, I've learned that success depends on continuous learning, hands-on experience, and adaptability. The industry values practical skills, problem-solving, and real-world projects just as much, if not more, than a degree. Keep pushing forward, and you'll find your place in tech!
2
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Rufel John’s Answer

In the majority of instances, the technology sector appreciates experience and skills over formal education. By enrolling in online courses, developing a solid portfolio, networking, and perhaps beginning with entry-level or freelance jobs, you can successfully make the switch to a career in technology. Sometimes with employers it's all about passion, determination, and learning enthusiasm
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Mariana’s Answer

Hi Qhayiya!

This is such a great question :)

I currently work at a tech company and I do not have a tech background, but I also don't have at tech role.

If you are particularly interested in holding a tech role, I think the other folks on this thread have given some great advice. I will come at this from a non-tech role and what I can say is that tech organizations are still businesses, so they need HR professionals, Legal experts, Marketing and communications experts, program managers, project mangers product managers, sales representatives, customer service representatives, and more. So, there are a lot of ways you can be in tech adjacent roles. I think what is important is to realize what your interests and strengths are and explore how some of these different roles match up with them!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

FRISTAN ENRICK’s Answer

Learn the foundations online. May it be SQL or Python. The world of Data Engineering now revolves in common sense. People who are critical thinkers have way more edge in landing these jobs better than those with degrees. Being resourceful and hungry for knowledge is one fo the core concepts nowadays. With the fast evolution of technology, no one can compare to a person that is hungry for knowledge.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Nikita’s Answer

Degrees are not always necessary; you can develop your skills by working on programming languages and technical stacks, and by completing a few projects that can be added as experience on your resume to enter the tech industry.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Mary Ann’s Answer

Hi Qhayiya,
Tech is like every other industry in the way it needs Finance, HR, Marketing, Supply Chain, Communications, PR, and every other department that makes a company run. Therefore, the first step would be to check to see if your field of study is something that is pertinent to multiple industries. If it is, continue to follow that path and learn all you can for that field.

To help yourself be ready to do your kind of work in tech, look for ways to educate yourself on what's happening in the tech industry. Learn the language of the tech industry. This will provide you with the ability to better understand the industry and apply your skills to that industry.

I've worked in tech for more than 15 years and my college degree is in Social Work. What do I do in tech? I do team building, training, communications, and organizational change management (I get people ready for a big change happening across the company and help them make a transition to the new way or working. Kind of like a group coach). I was able to do this because I realized the skills I acquired from my Social Work studies, paired with some office skills I learned along the way, could be applied to a different job. My career path went from admin, to facilities manager, to special events coordinator, to Change Leader. The opportunity to use any education in the tech world is there. But, you will likely need to look to find your entry to the field.

Goodluck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jonathan’s Answer

Hi Qhayiya,

I got into IT without a degree. Instead, I used study guides for certifications like CompTIA A+ and Network+. This helped me land my first job as a desktop technician, and I built a successful career from there.

What do you see yourself doing every day? When you think about the future, will it lead you to where you want to be? The IT field offers many paths, and the best part is you can learn a lot without needing a degree.

Now, I manage a team of technicians and engineers, and even after almost 20 years in the industry, there's still room to grow!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Randy’s Answer

There are lots of jobs in the tech world that don't need a computer science degree. Start by thinking about what you really want to do in tech. Begin with basic science and math classes because they'll help with many tech-related degrees. Once you've got those basics down, find a degree program that fits what you love. Remember, there are many engineering fields where you don't need a computer science degree. Keep exploring, and you'll find your path!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Sneha’s Answer

Hi Qhayiya! It is definitely possible to go into the tech industry without a computer science degree, it’s all about skills, experience, and persistence! Start by learning in-demand skills like Python, SQL, HTML/CSS, or JavaScript through online platforms (e.g., Coursera, freeCodeCamp, or Codecademy). Build projects to show what you can do and post them on GitHub or a portfolio site. Try getting internships or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience, even if they’re small at first. Networking, LinkedIn connections, and joining tech communities can also open doors through cold calls and coffee chats. Many successful developers and data analysts started this way, good luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Adriana’s Answer

The type of job you want plays a big role. The technology field has openings for people without technical backgrounds, such as Project Managers, User Support, and Business Communication roles. You don't always need a formal education for these jobs. For example, I work as a Project Manager in IT, but my degree is in history.

My advice is to focus on what you're good at and stay curious. Look for a job where you can use your current skills. You can always learn more and get new skills while working, or get certified. Many companies offer chances to earn certifications.
0