<h2>It’s a common belief that a degree is the golden ticket to certain careers. While this may hold true for specialized fields like medicine or law, many industries today prioritize skills, experience, and potential over specific degrees.</h2><h3>So, do you really need the “right” degree to land the job you want? Let’s break it down.</h3><h2>Careers That Require Specific Degrees</h2><figure class="image image-style-align-center image_resized" style="width:79.17%;"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_01_21_115245080_8b98a827f3.png"></figure><p>Some careers are strictly regulated and require formal education to ensure professionals meet industry standards. These include:</p><ul><li><strong>Medicine and Healthcare</strong>: Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists must complete relevant degrees and obtain licenses.</li><li><strong>Law</strong>: Lawyers need a law degree and must pass a bar examination.</li><li><strong>Engineering</strong>: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers typically need a degree to be certified professionals.</li><li><strong>Education</strong>: Teachers often require a degree in education or a specialized subject.</li></ul><p>If you’re aiming for a role in these fields, pursuing the right degree is essential.</p><hr><h2>Why Employers Prefer Degrees for Non-Specialized Roles</h2><figure class="image image-style-align-center image_resized" style="width:81.53%;"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_01_21_115330744_4aab9c4547.png"></figure><p>Even in roles where a <a href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2020/09/reckoning-for-skills/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>degree</strong></a> isn’t strictly necessary, employers may still list one as a requirement. Here’s why:</p><ul><li><strong>Sign of Commitment</strong>: Completing a degree demonstrates dedication and the ability to follow through on long-term goals.</li><li><strong>Baseline Knowledge</strong>: Employers often see degrees as a way to ensure candidates have foundational knowledge or critical thinking skills.</li><li><strong>Screening Tool</strong>: With a high volume of applicants, listing a degree as a requirement helps narrow down the candidate pool.</li></ul><p>However, this doesn’t mean you’re out of the running without the “right” degree.</p><hr><h2>How to Get the Job Without the Right Degree</h2><figure class="image image-style-align-center image_resized" style="width:81.98%;"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_01_21_115421339_688b716f72.png"></figure><p>If you don’t have a degree that aligns with your dream job, don’t worry. Many employers today are shifting their focus to skills, experience, and potential. Here’s how you can bridge the gap:</p><ul><li><strong>Gain Relevant Skills</strong><br>Enroll in <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/5-in-demand-skills-to-boost-your-career?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>online courses</strong></a>, certifications, or workshops that teach the skills required for the role. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable options.</li><li><strong>Showcase Transferable Skills</strong><br>Highlight skills from previous roles that can be applied to the job you’re pursuing, such as leadership, problem-solving, or communication.</li><li><strong>Build a Strong Portfolio</strong><br>For creative and technical roles, a <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/writing-effective-job-descriptions?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>portfolio</strong></a> can speak louder than any degree. Showcase your best work and projects to demonstrate your abilities.</li><li><strong>Network Strategically</strong><br>Connect with professionals in your desired field through LinkedIn or industry events. Networking can open doors to opportunities that bypass traditional hiring processes.</li><li><strong>Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter</strong><br>Emphasize your <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/easy-to-screen-resume?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>skills and achievements</strong></a> rather than your educational background. Show how your experience aligns with the job requirements.</li><li><strong>Gain Experience Through Internships or Volunteering</strong><br>Practical experience can often outweigh a degree. Seek <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/should-interns-get-paid?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>internships</strong></a>, apprenticeships, or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on knowledge.</li><li><strong>Consider Entry-Level Roles</strong><br>Don’t shy away from starting small. Entry-level roles can be stepping stones to more advanced positions in your chosen field.</li><li><strong>Leverage Your </strong><a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/why-your-career-depends-on-your-personal-brand?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Personal Brand</strong></a><br>Use platforms like LinkedIn to share insights, projects, and achievements that highlight your expertise.</li><li><strong>Show Eagerness to Learn</strong><br>During interviews, demonstrate your willingness to grow and adapt. Employers value candidates who are proactive about self-improvement.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>It’s wise to keep an open mind to the different possible ways your career could grow.</h3><h3>Itching for a career change? We’ll have you know that it’s possible even without the right formal qualification or working experience.</h3><h3>Here are <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/successful-career-switch?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=clevertap&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">9 essential steps you need to take for a successful career switch</a>.</h3><hr><h3>Discover your next opportunity with <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/jobs?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Hiredly</strong></a>, Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, explore tailored job opportunities, expert career advice, and tools like the <a href="https://hiredly.typeform.com/to/K4idZTDK?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=do_you_actually_need_the_right_degree_to_get_the_job?&amp;utm_content=freelancing_malaysia,_job_seeker,_job_opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Work Personality Test</strong></a> to find your perfect fit.</h3>

<p>The surprising answer is NO &#8211; here&#8217;s why!</p>
