Was high school education more valuable in the job market in the past?

I'm curious, was a high school diploma more valuable in the job market in the past compared to now? I feel like everything today requires a degree, but maybe it wasn't always like this. Anyone know what changed?

Indeed, the dynamics of the job market have changed over time. Back in the post-WWII era, a high school diploma was enough for many jobs. The growth of industrial and manufacturing sectors meant that there were many blue-collar jobs that didn't need a college education. Having a high school diploma alone often allowed individuals to secure stable, well-paying jobs.

However, the economic landscape has shifted significantly over the years. The growth of technology, the decline of manufacturing jobs, and the rise of the knowledge economy mean that more jobs now require higher education or technical skills. The shift towards a more globalized economy also increased competition, further elevating the importance of education.

The increasing complexity of many professions has contributed as well. Fields that may not have required higher education in the past, like nursing or teaching, now often require at least a bachelor's degree. This trend towards "credential inflation" means that the bar for entry into many professions is continually rising.

In sum, while a high school diploma was previously sufficient for a prosperous career, the changing nature of the economy and job market has increased the value of having a college degree or technical education. However, it's also worth noting that there can still be valuable and rewarding career paths that don't require a four-year degree, such as skilled trades or entrepreneurship.