No degree? You’ve saved a packet.
I took this from the Generation Australia website. As the director or Republic Resumes, who tries and gets people work is OK by me – as long as they’re not a dodgy private provider. I reckon these days, 70 per cent of degrees are a waste of time and money.
“There are numerous opportunities available for job seekers without formal education — and even more so as the workplace continues to evolve.
People are forgoing the traditional university degree and still finding success and fulfilment in their careers.
If you’re on the hunt for a great job but lack a university qualification, this article will offer practical tips to help you on your way.
Employers today increasingly recognise the value of skills over degrees. In many sectors, companies care more about what you can do than where you went to school. To stand out, concentrate on developing practical, in-demand skills that are directly applicable to your target job.
Consider free or low-cost resources such as:
- Online courses on platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or Udemy
- Hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or freelancing
- Boot camps in areas like coding, marketing, or data analysis
- Employment programs from Generation
Building a portfolio or compiling a list of your skills and accomplishments can demonstrate your abilities to employers more effectively than a degree ever could.
Networking remains one of the most effective ways to secure a job.
Start by connecting with people in your desired industry, whether through professional networking platforms like LinkedIn or local meetups. Join online communities, attend industry events, and ask for informational interviews with professionals who can provide insights into the sector.
Don’t be shy about asking for advice or even referrals. A good reference from the right person can be even more valuable than a degree.
Fields such as technology, sales, customer service, construction, and healthcare offer a wide array of opportunities for skilled workers who don’t necessarily have a degree.
Job seekers without a degree should research companies known for hiring based on skill rather than education. Some forward-thinking employers — especially in the tech and creative sectors — don’t require degrees for roles such as Developers, Information Technology Coordinators and Data Analysts.
Without the advantage of a university degree, your personal brand becomes even more crucial. Create a compelling CV that highlights your skills, achievements, and experiences. Make sure your online presence — especially on LinkedIn — reflects your professional capabilities.
There are also vocational training programs designed to equip job seekers with the hands-on experience they need for specific careers. These courses are often shorter and more affordable than traditional university degrees, offering a faster route into the workforce.
Generation Australian offers tailored employment programmes that equip participants with the practical skills needed to thrive in high-demand industries.
The focus on both technical and behavioural skills and mindsets prepares candidates holistically, giving them the tools to excel in their careers.”
Explore their employment employment programs.