Colorado Technical University

why do employers ask for college degrees ?

I am job searching for the fist time since I was 18 (9 years ago) and I notice that it seems every job out there requires a college degree, some I understand why, others I have no idea. And those jobs rarely specify what kind of degree, nor does one seem really neccessary to do some of these jobs. Do employers ask just for the heck of it?

Public Comments

1. it separates the crowd.............. there is time invested in education which is not specific as to skills................but gives an employee more balance..........
2. Employers look for college degrees because they are a 'shorthand' way of demonstrating intelligence, hard work, resilience. That said, you don't need to look at many students before you find some who do not demonstrate those things. If you can show through your resume that you have intelligence, the ability to work hard and an ability to take on tough challenges then most employers will suddenly not mind so much. It is true that some big companies will use the degree as a 'sifting tool' - if you don't have it you will be on the 'no' pile. Smaller companies are less likely to be as formal about that. Frankly, I would rather hire someone with no degree and lots of experience, than a degree and no experience. Good luck.
3. They are looking for people who follow the rules and who were able to sit through classes, obey authority, etc. If you got through college, you were obedient in high school, you came to class on time, you didn't miss classes, you completed your assignments, you persevered etc. Those are the same qualities an employer wants. You are correct, a lot of jobs that in the past went to those with a high school degree now require college. It is because they know they stuck with it and followed the rules. It is an easy way to wade through the applicants.