By Education has been considered one of the most important aspects of life for a very long time. In the past, a degree was thought of as the golden ticket that would allow its holder to obtain a successful career and a positively regarded status. However, with the current and ever-changing rapidly advancing world, a debate that asks questions like, what is more important a degree or a set of skills, is becoming more common.
The Worth of a Degree
A degree still carries immense value. Earning a degree means learning at a certain level, proving mastery of theory, and retaining a certain level of trust in the job market. Various industries such as medicine, law, engineering, and even teaching require a person to hold certain credentials due to sensitive nature of the underlying principles as it holds the potential for dire consequences. Earning a degree shows that a person has the capability to work for something, stick to a set plan, and has self-discipline, which is appreciated among employers.
Colleges and universities do not stop at teaching, they also build on essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. These skills are extremely beneficial for the world of work. In certain situations, a degree can serve as a means to gaining minimum criteria that allows a candidate to enter the competition for certain duties.
The Importance of Skills
The advancements in technology and the emergence of startups point towards the increasing value of practical skills as compared to the value of formal education. Due to technology and the emergence of new digital platforms, startups look for web designers, digital marketers, and other skill-based professions and hire them irrespective of whether the candidate possesses a formal qualification in the field, as long as the candidate demonstrates results.
Being a “doer” means being skilled. Today, in the realm of business, being a “doer” means having the ability to tackle challenges, exhibit creativity, and displayversatility.
Skills Vs Degree
The skills Vs degree debate has taken a new turn to the point that some employers appreciate a balance of both. Rather, the ability to perform demonstrates and guarantees job security in the long run. For instance, business administration graduates are likely to open doors, however true success depends on leadership, digital literacy, and negotiation. Along the same lines, a computer science degree in the field of IT is advantageous, however a candidate is only valuable if they have hands-on experience with coding and projects.
Which One Matters More?
It varies by industry and career path. In industries governed by strict regulations, the possession of certain degrees is simply a prerequisite. However, in technology, media, marketing, and entrepreneurship, education may hold less weight than demonstrated ability. There is a growing trend of employers engaging talent who, although do not possess a degree, have proven mastery of a field by way of work, portfolios, or certificates.
Conclusion
The problem is not whether one has a degree or practical skills, rather, the degree and practical skills. The degree provides a base and the reputation, the skills provides the employment and growth. Today, a competitive market requires one to not only have degrees but also strive to gain practical skills to remain employable. Learning, adapting, and applying knowledge, whether from real-life experience or a classroom, is what defines a successful person.
