How to Become a Professional Guitarist (Without a Degree)

So, you want to be a professional guitarist? Nice. It’s a big goal — and yeah, it’s possible. But here’s something most people won’t tell you: you don’t need a music degree to make it.

I know that might go against what your teacher, your parents, or the guy at your local music shop says… but I’ve been through the degree route and the real-world grind, and trust me — there’s more than one way to make this career happen.

Let’s break it down...

Do You Really Need a Music Degree?

Short answer? Not necessarily.

Sure, music uni can be great for some things:

• You get structure, regular practice, and exposure to theory

• You’re surrounded by other musicians (which is motivating)

• You might even meet a few future collaborators

But here’s what they often don’t teach:

• How to get work

• How to network

• How to manage the business side of being a musician

• How to actually make money with your skills

When I graduated, I still felt underprepared for the real world. And I know loads of others who felt the same.

So What Does It Take to Go Pro?

Honestly? It’s a mix of mindset, skill, and hustle.

Here’s what really matters:

✅ Being able to play well under pressure — live, in studios, with people you’ve just met
✅ Understanding how to learn songs quickly and accurately
✅ Good communication — so much of this job is just being someone people want to work with
✅ Applying theory to real music — not just textbook knowledge
✅ Building relationships — the music world is small, and people hire who they trust
✅ Being versatile — session, live gigs, teaching, content... the more flexible you are, the better

None of that’s about grades or degrees — it’s about practical, usable skills.

What You Can Do Instead of Going to Uni

Here’s what I’d recommend if you want to skip the degree route:

1. Find a mentor or coach who’s already working in the industry

2. Get proper training in theory, technique, and song learning (without the fluff)

3. Start recording yourself — build up a portfolio and get used to hearing your playing

4. Say yes to opportunities — even the small ones, especially early on (Facebook groups are a great place to find gigs!)

5. Join communities — online or offline, and start making connections (Local Jam nights are a great start!)

I say this all the time to students: you don’t have to go it alone, but you do have to start.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a professional guitarist isn’t some unreachable dream. It’s totally doable — but it does take focus, commitment, and the right kind of training.

If you’re serious about making a career out of this, look beyond the degree route. Learn from people who are actually out there doing it. Build your skills in the areas that matter. And be ready to learn fast and stay humble.

Because honestly, the music industry rewards people who show up, deliver, and keep growing.

Wherever you’re starting from, just keep moving forward. It’s not about being the best — it’s about getting better and being reliable.

Want some help with that next step?
I put everything I’ve learned as a working guitarist into a course called Play Like A Pro.
It’s designed for players who are ready to level up — no fluff, no gatekeeping, just real-world skills and support from people who’ve actually done it.

I cover everything there is to know about the guitar, music theory and share insider tips to really making it as a professional guitarist.

Check it out here!

Keep practicing! 

Jamie