8 high-stakes tech jobs that don't require a bachelor's degree and pay extremely well

High-stakes tech jobs aren't just for MIT and Stanford grads.

In fact, there are a number of important cybersecurity roles that don't require a four-year degree at all.

There's also a ton of demand out there. According to a report from Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be 3.5 million cybersecurity job openings by 2021.

"People interested in exploring or reinventing a career in security need to recognize any skills that could be applied," Heather Ricciuto, IBM Security's academic outreach leader, tells Business Insider. "For example, people who are constant learners, problem solvers, or even strong communicators are all great candidates to transition into various cybersecurity roles."

She adds that IBM has hired 2,000 cybersecurity experts since 2015. IBM has also pushed to establish more "new collar" jobs - which land somewhere in between trade and professional work, as Business Insider previously reported.

"The opportunities in cybersecurity are huge right now, and we're looking for people of all backgrounds, generations, and skill sets to come join us in the fight against cybercrime," Ricciuto says. "If you're looking for a career that is fast-paced, constantly changing, and where you can make a difference, start looking into the many different pathways into cybersecurity."

Here are eight jobs in cybersecuirty that don't require a four year degree and come with a median annual salary over $59,000: