Resources

This page is a simple list of tools, programs, and learning options that can help you move toward a better career without going back for a new four year degree.

Some of these may eventually be affiliate links.

That means if you click and later enroll, this site may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

The goal is to point you toward options that could actually fit your life, not to push you into something that is wrong for you.

For now, use this page as a starting point and a checklist of what to look for.

How to Use This Page

You do not need to sign up for anything right away.

A simple way to use these resources:

  1. Get clear on your direction using the guides on this site.

  2. Decide what kind of training fits your time, money, and energy.

  3. Then start comparing programs or tools slowly and carefully.

This page is about helping you ask better questions and notice red flags, not about rushing you into a decision.

Types of Training to Consider

Below are the main types of non-degree training you will see as you explore your options.

For each one, you can make a short list of programs to research more deeply.

1. Bootcamps

Focused programs that take you from beginner to job-ready in a specific field in a few months.

Common areas:

  • Coding and web development

  • Data analytics

  • UX / UI design

  • Cybersecurity

  • Tech sales

Good if you want:

  • Structure

  • A clear timeline

  • Intense, guided learning

Before choosing a bootcamp, ask:

  • What skills will I have at the end?

  • What projects will I build?

  • What kind of career support is included?

  • What do past students say outside of the bootcamp’s own website?

Later, you can list specific bootcamps you like here.

2. Certificates and Short Programs

These are programs that give you a targeted credential without becoming a full degree.

Common areas:

  • Project management

  • Data analytics

  • UX / UI

  • Bookkeeping

  • HR and recruiting

Good if you want:

  • More structure than random self-study

  • A clear curriculum and outcome

  • A slower pace than a bootcamp

Questions to ask:

  • How long is the program?

  • How many hours per week does it expect?

  • Are there real projects, or only quizzes?

  • Is the content practical for real jobs?

You can later link to specific certificate programs you trust.

3. Self-Paced Course Paths

These are collections of online courses that you follow in a sequence.

You might:

  • Buy a bundle

  • Follow a curated playlist or learning path

  • Build your own list of courses

Good if you want:

  • A low-cost way to explore a field

  • Full control over your schedule

  • A way to test if you even like the work before spending more

To make self-paced learning work:

  • Commit to a schedule (for example, 5–7 hours per week)

  • Finish what you start before jumping to the next shiny thing

  • Build small projects as you go

You can later link to course platforms or specific beginner paths here.

Tools That Can Help Along the Way

No matter what path you choose, a few simple tools can make learning and planning easier.

Examples:

  • A note-taking app to track what you learn

  • A simple spreadsheet to plan your 6–12 month timeline

  • Portfolio builders or website tools to show your work

For now, you can keep this section simple.

Later, you can add specific tools you like and actually use.

How to Spot Good Programs (and Avoid Bad Ones)

Before you enroll in any program, bootcamp, or course, slow down and ask:

  • Is the outcome clear?

    Do they explain what you will be able to do at the end?

  • Do they share real results?

    Not just one or two vague testimonials, but examples of jobs and timelines.

  • Does the schedule fit your life?

    Be honest about how many hours you can give each week.

  • Is the cost realistic for you?

    Can you pay for this without wrecking your finances?

  • What do former students say?

    Look for independent reviews, not just the marketing page.

If anything feels pushy, vague, or too good to be true, step back.

A good program will still be there tomorrow.

How This Page Will Evolve

Right now, this Resources page is a simple framework.

Over time, it will include:

  • Specific programs that fit the No New Degree idea

  • Curated course paths for different careers

  • Checklists and tools to help you compare options

Some links will be affiliate links.

If you choose to enroll through them, this site may earn a commission.

It does not change your price.

The goal is the same either way:

Help you move toward better work,

without a new four year degree,

and without getting pulled into hype.

Your Next Step

You do not need to pick a program today.

A simple next step:

  1. Read the guides on this site to find one path that feels like a “maybe yes.”

  2. Use this Resources page as a reminder of the kinds of training that exist.

  3. Make a short list of 2–3 programs or course paths to research slowly and calmly.

No New Degree is not here to tell you what to buy.

It is here to help you make clear, grounded choices about your next chapter.