The Times, They Are A-Changin’

It used to be that a degree was the ticket to getting in the door at many, if not most, companies. Not so much anymore. A survey of 800 employers conducted by “Intelligent.com” produced these results: 

• 80% indicated that experience would carry more weight than education when evaluating applications, and 81% said that it was important to them that college graduates have work experience. (The composition of the survey group was not included.) 

• Just over half said they have eliminated the need for a Bachelor’s degree for certain entry-level and some mid-level positions in order to enhance diversity in their workforce. 

• Additional statistical results: 

  • 95% still require a bachelor’s degree “for at least some roles”; 

  • 24% require a degree for 75% of their positions; and 

  • 27% require a degree for half their positions. 

• Certificate and other practical education programs are seen as having value. 

• Industries reducing or eliminating degree requirements tend to be in software, information services, construction, and finance and insurance, according to the survey. 

• A number of states have also dropped degree requirements for many jobs, including MD & VA. 

Another trend: Fully remote work has dropped dramatically, with only 1% of employers still requiring 1 day or less per week in the office, while hybrid work has grown, with about 80% of employers either encouraging or requiring 3 or more days per week in the office.