I Am Ruchi (Married) from UP, India, I Failed 12th Class, How Can I Get a Job in IT Field Without Any Degree, and What Should My Earning Be as an Entry-Level Job?
Ruchi, like many others, has faced setbacks in her academic journey, but that doesn't mean a career in the IT field is out of reach. The IT industry is one of the most dynamic fields, and it offers many opportunities, even for those without a formal degree or who haven’t completed their 12th class. All it takes is the right attitude, the willingness to learn, and a strategic approach.
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12/26/20244 min read
In this blog, we’ll explore how you can break into the IT industry, even without a degree, and what you can expect to earn as an entry-level professional.
1. Identify Your Area of Interest
The IT field is vast, and there are various career paths to explore. The first step is to identify what excites you the most. Here are some areas you could consider:
Software Development: Creating applications and programs.
Web Development: Building and maintaining websites.
Data Entry or IT Support: Providing technical support or managing data.
Quality Assurance (QA) Testing: Ensuring that software works as intended.
Digital Marketing: Utilizing digital channels to market products and services.
Graphic Design: Designing websites, logos, and digital content.
Once you decide on a path, you can focus your learning on specific skills related to that area.
2. Learn the Basics of IT and Programming
While you may not have completed your 12th class, it’s never too late to start learning. With the right online resources, you can acquire the skills needed for an IT job. Many free and affordable platforms offer courses that teach you how to code, use various software, or manage websites:
freeCodeCamp: Offers free coding tutorials for beginners.
Codecademy: Offers structured courses in programming and web development.
Udemy and Coursera: Paid courses with certificates, often offering discounts.
YouTube: Free video tutorials for specific topics like coding or IT support.
Start with the basics, such as learning HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web development, or Python for programming. Once you're comfortable, you can progress to more advanced topics.
3. Build a Portfolio and Gain Practical Experience
One of the most important things you can do as a beginner is to build a portfolio that showcases your skills. As you learn new technologies, create personal projects or contribute to open-source projects. For example:
Build a simple website or web application.
Work on a personal blog or portfolio website.
Solve coding problems on LeetCode or HackerRank to improve your problem-solving skills.
A strong portfolio shows potential employers that you have practical experience, even if you don’t have a formal degree or high school qualifications.
4. Consider Online Bootcamps or Certification Courses
Coding bootcamps and certification courses are a great way to gain practical skills quickly. Many bootcamps focus on teaching the most in-demand skills for IT jobs in a matter of months. You can also earn certifications that will help you stand out to employers.
Some popular bootcamps and courses include:
Udacity: Offers nanodegree programs in various IT fields like data science, web development, and programming.
Le Wagon: A coding bootcamp that focuses on full-stack web development.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate: A beginner-level certification that provides a pathway into IT support roles.
Microsoft Certifications: These are recognized in the industry for various IT-related jobs.
By enrolling in one of these programs, you’ll gain not only the technical skills you need but also the structure and guidance to help you succeed.
5. Apply for Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
Once you’ve learned the basics and built a portfolio, start applying for internships and entry-level IT jobs. These positions are typically more accessible and allow you to gain hands-on experience while earning a salary. As a beginner, you might start with roles such as:
Junior Web Developer
IT Support Technician
QA Tester
Data Entry Clerk
Customer Support Representative (Tech)
Digital Marketing Assistant
Even if you don’t land a job right away, internships are a great way to get started in the field, gain exposure, and grow your network.
6. What to Expect as an Entry-Level Job
As someone new to the IT industry without a degree, your starting salary will depend on the job role, location, and company size. However, here's an approximate range of what you can expect to earn in India as an entry-level professional in the IT field:
Junior Web Developer: ₹2.5 to ₹4 Lakh per year.
IT Support Technician: ₹2 to ₹3.5 Lakh per year.
Quality Assurance (QA) Tester: ₹2.5 to ₹4 Lakh per year.
Data Entry Clerk: ₹1.5 to ₹2.5 Lakh per year.
Customer Support (Tech): ₹2 to ₹3.5 Lakh per year.
Remember, these salaries can vary based on factors like the company's location, your skills, and the specific industry you’re working in. Over time, as you gain experience and expertise, your salary will increase.
7. Stay Motivated and Keep Learning
Success in the IT field doesn’t come overnight. It requires hard work, continuous learning, and persistence. Even after landing your first job, continue to develop your skills and stay updated with the latest technology trends. The IT field is fast-evolving, and staying relevant is key to long-term success.
Follow blogs, join online communities, and attend workshops to keep yourself motivated and engaged in your career journey.
Conclusion
While it may seem challenging to break into the IT field without a degree, it’s absolutely possible with determination and the right approach. By learning key skills, building a portfolio, gaining practical experience, and starting with an entry-level job, you can create a successful career in IT. Remember, your value as a professional is not defined by your degree but by the skills and experience you bring to the table.
If you’re looking for more guidance on your career journey, coding tutorials, and resources to help you land your first IT job, visit jogindrakumar.com. We’re here to support your growth every step of the way!