Philadelphia’s newly inaugurated Mayor Cherelle L. Parker wasted no time making a significant change, signing an executive order on January 2 that eliminates college degree requirements for specific city jobs. The move aligns with Parker’s 100-Day Action Plan, focusing on removing unnecessary degree prerequisites for various roles in the City of Philadelphia. By doing so, the city aims to enhance accessibility to well-paying jobs for a broader spectrum of its residents. Philadelphia’s decision mirrors a growing trend in both local and state governments, with Maryland eliminating four-year degree requirements for thousands of state jobs in March 2022.
This shift extends beyond the public sector, as major corporations like Walmart have also embraced the change, discarding degree mandates for certain corporate positions. According to an Intelligent.com survey, 55% of employers have dropped degree requirements for entry-level and mid-level roles. The rationale behind this movement is not only economic but also geared towards fostering diversity in the workforce. The prohibitive costs associated with obtaining a college degree pose challenges, particularly for individuals from traditionally marginalized groups or lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Higher education expert Diane Gayeski highlights the difficulties faced by those without familial college experiences or international backgrounds, making it harder to navigate the college application process and secure scholarships. In response to these challenges, employers are recognizing the value of experience over formal education, with 70% acknowledging that the elimination of bachelor’s degree requirements contributes to creating a more diverse talent pool. Employers are increasingly prioritizing skill assessments to evaluate candidates thoroughly.
Looking forward, this trend is expected to continue, with 45% of employers planning to remove degree requirements for certain positions in 2024. The momentum toward reevaluating traditional hiring criteria indicates a broader shift in recognizing diverse pathways to acquiring skills and expertise. Mayor Parker’s executive order not only reflects this nationwide transformation but positions Philadelphia as a proactive participant in reshaping workforce dynamics and promoting inclusivity in job opportunities.
