Certifications vs. Degrees: How Skills-Based Hiring is Shaping Digital Careers
Skills-based hiring is becoming more important to the digital career space than ever before. Research shows that 81% of employers looked to skill-based hiring in 2024, compared to 73 percent in 2023.
Employers are becoming more concerned with what you can actually do than with what degree you have. This may be because many people obtain different degrees but don’t put them to good use. Degrees may look good on paper, but they don’t necessarily translate to the real-world skills that are needed in today’s changing digital landscape. More and more, employers are looking for people that can use their knowledge in a hands-on way.
Certificates vs. Degrees: Pros and Cons in the Digital Career Space
While there is more of an emphasis on skill-based hiring, this is not to say that degrees don’t still hold value. However, certificates can give specific skills people need to succeed, which can sometimes trump the power that degrees once had.
A Closer Look at Degrees
A degree has been a long-sought-after, permanent example of what was accomplished in an academic setting. While degrees teach people how to think and solve complex problems, some of that knowledge can quickly become outdated, especially in the digital career space. Technology is constantly evolving. What was learned two years ago may not be relevant right now. This is often why certificates are looked upon favorably. They provide updated information on the skills that are relevant now.
Degrees can also be expensive for people to obtain. They may leave an educational institution with thousands of dollars in debt. This can take years to pay off, leaving them stressed in all aspects of their lives.
A Closer Look at Certificates
Certificates provide a learning solution for a digital economy that is constantly evolving. More people are opting for certificates because they provide:
- Super-Relevant Skills: Many different programs are designed to give you the skills you need when starting a new job. Whether it’s a certificate in web design or social media, you’ll learn what you need to be a team player. You can use the skills you’ve learned and see how they apply in a professional setting.
- Updated Information: If you want to change the focus of your career, a certificate allows you to do so quickly. You can get the skills you need in weeks or months, rather than the years it takes to earn a degree.
- Cost-Effective: Certificate courses are very cost-effective, making them accessible to everyone. Some degrees may be out of reach for some people because of their cost. While they may have the drive to learn, financially, it may not be feasible.
While certificates can be extremely beneficial, it’s important to remember that some do require updates. They may expire in 2 to 3 years, requiring continuous re-testing and fees to stay relevant. You also want to be sure that you are taking certificate courses from the right sources. There are many different places that offer certificates, but they’re not all the same. You want to choose the best ones in the market that will help you stand out among the competition.
The bottom line is that a certificate shows what you can do, while a degree shows what you have learned. By using both to your advantage, you can have an upperhand on the competition.
What to Look for in a Certificate Program
When you’re searching for a certification, you want to be sure you are choosing one that best suits your needs. Here are some things to look for when choosing a certification:
Accreditation
Be sure that wherever you are getting your certificate is accredited and reputable. You want to know that the lessons and information you are being taught are relevant and correct. Do your homework to check for accreditation and to read about past students’ experiences.
Career Outcomes
Have people who have taken these courses received favorable outcomes? What is the job placement success rate? What about starting salaries? These are all things you want to look at when you are considering a certificate course.
Flexibility
Many people take certification courses while they are working, which means flexibility is key. Look for programs that are offered online and let you work at your own pace. This can make it easier to get the work done and obtain your certification.
Affordability
One of the great things about a certification course is that it is often affordable. Compare the tuition among different outlets so that you can find one that is affordable while still offering the skills you need.
FAQ about Certifications vs. Degrees
Do I still need a degree if I have a certification?
Many job seekers have greater success rates when they have both a degree and a certification. This can increase your earning potential.
When can I get a certification?
You can obtain a certification at any point in your career. It is important when you’re starting out, and equally valuable as you progress in your career and need to learn new skills or update your knowledge.
What is the best way to obtain a certificate?
Always check to see if there are any prerequisites before you apply. If you have everything you need, enroll, and get to work! The sooner you can complete your program, the sooner you can start using it in your career.
Are You Looking for a New Certificate? Contact Us Today to Learn More
At Certification Partners, we are committed to helping people find the certificate programs that will advance their careers. We offer a wide variety of courses, such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and much more. Our courses are convenient, affordable, and reputable, providing valuable and current information. Contact us today to learn more about how you benefit from our certificate courses.