If you don’t have a university degree, does that mean you can’t get a good job in Ghana?

Not at all! Many people are working and earning well without ever stepping foot in a university. Some have built businesses, while others have landed great jobs using skills they learned on their own or through training programs.

This article will show you how to get a job in Ghana without a degree, the types of jobs you can consider, and why not having a degree doesn’t mean you’re unqualified.

Can You Really Get a Job Without a Degree?

Yes, you can! Some jobs require degrees—like becoming a doctor or a lawyer—but many jobs focus more on skills and experience. Think about it: Have you ever met someone with a degree who wasn’t very good at their job? And have you also seen someone without a degree who was excellent at what they do? It happens all the time! Employers want people who can actually do the job, not just those with certificates—and many of these skill-based jobs offer competitive salaries in Ghana.

Good Jobs You Can Start Without a Degree

Here are some jobs that don’t require a university degree but can still pay well:

Job Title	Description	How to Get Started
YouTuber	Creates videos on various topics and earns from ads, sponsorships, and views.	Find a good niche you love, learn video editing, and post consistently.
Blogger	Writes about topics like entertainment, tech, or personal experiences.	Create a website, write interesting articles that people would love, and monetize with ads.
Graphic Designer	Designs logos, posters, and social media content.	Learn design software like Canva or Photoshop, build a portfolio and start freelancing.
Programmer	Writes code to build websites, apps, and software.	Take online coding courses from websites like Udemy and practice by building projects.
Electrician	Installs and repairs electrical systems.	Learn from a vocational school or an apprenticeship.
Photographer	Takes professional pictures for events and businesses.	Start with a decent camera or phone, practice, and market yourself.
Social Media Manager	Manages social media pages for businesses and public figures.	Learn social media strategies and offer your services.
Online Seller	Sells products on platforms like Jumia, Instagram, and WhatsApp.	Find products in demand and start marketing online.
Barber / Hairdresser	Provides grooming and hairstyling services.	Train under a professional, buy tools, and build a customer base.

Why Do Some People Not Have Degrees?

Not everyone gets a degree, and there are different reasons for this:

1. Cost – University is expensive, and not everyone can afford it.
2. Personal Choice – Some people don’t want to go to university because they prefer learning in other ways.
3. Family Responsibilities – Some people have to work early in life to support their families.
4. Low University Admission Rates – Not everyone who applies gets admitted due to limited spaces.
5. Interest in Practical Skills – Some prefer hands-on skills over academic study.

But Aren’t Degrees Important?

Yes, getting a degree can be beneficial. Here’s why:

1. Better Job Opportunities – Some jobs require a degree as a minimum qualification.
2. Higher Salary – On average, degree holders tend to earn more over time.
3. Networking – University helps you meet people who can connect you to job opportunities.
4. Specialized Knowledge – Some fields require deep study, which universities provide.

However, having a degree is not a guarantee of success—and in Ghana, where unemployment is high, it doesn’t even guarantee a job. Not having one is not the end of the world.

Skills Matter More Than Certificates

Many employers today care more about skills and experience than just a piece of paper. A degree might get you in the door, but what keeps you there is your ability to do the job well.

Imagine a company looking for a graphic designer. Two people apply:

• One has a degree in graphic design but doesn’t have a strong portfolio.
• The other has no degree but has years of experience and a great portfolio.

Who do you think will get the job? Most likely, the one with better skills!

How to Get a Job Without a Degree in Ghana

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Learn a Skill

Find something you enjoy and get good at it. You can learn skills through:

• YouTube tutorials
• Online courses (Udemy, Coursera, Alison, etc.)
• Apprenticeships or vocational training
• Internships and volunteering

2. Gain Experience

Once you have a skill, practice it. Work for free if you have to at the beginning, just to gain experience. If you want to be a writer, start a blog. If you want to be a photographer, take pictures at events and share your work online.

3. Build a Portfolio

A portfolio is proof of what you can do. If you’re a web designer, create sample websites. If you’re a social media manager, showcase pages you’ve worked on.

4. Network and Market Yourself

Who you know is as important as what you know. Tell people what you do. Use social media to show your work. Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn, and WhatsApp communities related to your industry.

5. Apply for Jobs

Don’t be afraid to apply for jobs, even if they list “degree required.” Many employers overlook this if you can show them you have the skills.

6. Start Your Own Business

If getting hired is tough, create your own job. Many successful people in Ghana today started small businesses instead of waiting for employment.

A degree can be helpful, but it’s not the only way to succeed. Many jobs in Ghana don’t require a university certificate, and many people without degrees are doing well. If you focus on learning skills, gaining experience, and marketing yourself, you can build a great career—degree or not.

So, if you don’t have a degree, don’t worry. There’s still plenty you can do to secure a good future for yourself. The key is to be proactive, keep learning, and never stop improving.