There is continuing debate about whether or not earning a degree is worthwhile in the current economy and job market. It is difficult to give a definitive answer since not every industry is the same. However, there are some solid reasons that a degree is still a highly valuable addition to your qualifications,
Even if you don’t yet know what career path you want to follow.
Demonstrating Dedication
Anyone with a degree of any kind has shown some level of dedication and commitment to their chosen subject. Even if the career you want is in an unrelated industry, many employers consider a degree to be a good sign of someone’s willingness to work hard and learn new information. A degree shows potential employers that you have the capacity to focus for long periods of time and your degree is proof.
Gaining Knowledge
The primary reason for getting any kind of degree is to obtain knowledge. No matter what subject you want to study, the act of studying is about adding to your brain. There are almost no scenarios where being curious and seeking knowledge is considered a bad quality to possess in a professional environment.
A degree is the perfect excuse to develop your interest in a particular field, even if it doesn’t directly lead to employment. Being knowledgeable makes you more attractive to employers.
Developing Relevant Skills
Of course, there are some degrees that can be extremely relevant to the industry you want to enter. Some of these may be broadly related to your career intentions, while others are highly specific.
For example, a digital marketing degree will give you more industry-specific skills and knowledge than a more general subject, like business studies. When you choose a degree like this, you develop skills that employers within the field will notice and appreciate. You will also find that once you start work, you don’t struggle as much as other less-qualified people in junior roles.
Providing Industry Experience
Similarly, degrees can often be valuable for giving students hands-on experience with the industry standard of technology and creating opportunities for learning through doing. It is like learning while on the job but without the high stakes. Students are given room to investigate the subject themselves and prepare for professional life without risking a secure job or salary. This is especially true for vocational degrees.
Opportunities to Network
When you choose a degree subject, your classmates become an excellent resource. Not only will their shared interest in your degree help you to find a group to study with, but you can share connections and opportunities with each other. Building a community around your future ambitions from an early stage will set you up for greater chances of success.
While the need for higher education is dependent on the industry you want to enter and will greatly vary between the subject and institution you choose, it is still important to consider the benefits of higher education. The above points have clarified why a degree can improve your career prospects and is often a worthwhile investment in yourself.
Also read: How Education can Transform Your Career
