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Is a degree always necessary?

Claire

A while ago I was with a group of HR professionals and one lady who had 20+yrs experience in HR, 16 of which was in an Officer or above role, asked for some advice about getting a new role.

Pretty straightforward you would think, but although she had diverse experience in both tasks and industries she didn't have a degree and as a single parent just would never find the money to get one. She wanted to apply for a role with a public service but they asked for two entries, 1. a degree with CIPD membership and two years relevant experience or 2. a degree, working towards Chartered Status and 4 years experience - it doesn't state what type of degree.

Everyone had a different opinion as to the best way forward, but collectively we didn't think there was much she could do in challenging the criteria - so what does everyone else think?

Parents
  • I feel that asking for "a degree" (as opposed to a specific qualification) is an indication of the level that you would expect someone to be able to work at - with demonstrable skills in formal writing, evaluation and research, project management, teamworking etc. But while a degree is a simple way to demonstrate those skills, it's by no means the only way (or the best). In roles I've recruited where "a degree" is asked for, unless it's a necessary requirement I've always added "or similar experience". Professional experience doing the job would count for a lot more with me.
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  • I feel that asking for "a degree" (as opposed to a specific qualification) is an indication of the level that you would expect someone to be able to work at - with demonstrable skills in formal writing, evaluation and research, project management, teamworking etc. But while a degree is a simple way to demonstrate those skills, it's by no means the only way (or the best). In roles I've recruited where "a degree" is asked for, unless it's a necessary requirement I've always added "or similar experience". Professional experience doing the job would count for a lot more with me.
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