How mandatory is a college degree for most jobs?

Feeling a bit worried about job prospects...Do most jobs out there really require a college degree? As in, is it a common requirement across industries? I'd appreciate any insight!

The requirement for a college degree can largely depend on the specific field or industry you're considering.

In some fields, such as engineering, medicine, law, and education, a degree is typically a baseline requirement. These professions often need in-depth, specialized knowledge that's usually gained through formal education. Moreover, some professions require licensure or certifications which are usually tied to having completed a relevant degree program.

On the other hand, there are industries where skills and experience can sometimes outrank a degree. These include certain sectors within business, technology, or creative fields. For instance, many tech companies are more interested in your coding ability, demonstrated through your portfolio or projects, than whether you have a computer science degree.

Trends are also evolving with the rise of "new collar" jobs. These are roles, especially in the tech and digital sectors, where skills gained from vocational training, apprenticeships, or even self-teaching can be sufficient. Companies like IBM are vocal supporters of this approach, championing skills over degrees.

Keep in mind, though, that while a degree may not always be a strict necessity, it can still be beneficial. Graduating from college can potentially provide a more rounded education, open up networking opportunities, and often be a green signal to employers about your abilities and commitments.

Lastly, even if some paths don't require a degree initially, advancement in those careers might require more education. For example, you might start in a tech company without a degree, but moving into management might require business knowledge often gained through a degree.

In essence, the need for a college degree largely depends on the career path you're interested in. I'd encourage you to research your desired field thoroughly, including talking to people already working in the industry, to understand what is best for you.