Does Your College Degree Have Value? February 10, 2010
Paul Partridge on whether a college degree has value
In today’s economy, it’s thought to be more important than ever to get a college degree to stay competitive in the work world. But just because you obtain a college degree, do you have the necessary critical thinking skills to succeed and add value in the workplace? Many employers would say no!
The National Association of Colleges has called for a “far reaching national commitment” to improve the quality of college learning. President Obama has proposed billions in educational improvements. The administration has established a number of goals to improve college access and graduation rates, but there is a lack of clarity about learning outcomes. The current proposals deal only with the amount of students being accepted and graduating, but not with the relativity of subjects taught in between.
The association has conducted a survey of 302 employers to find out what employers feel college grads need to be successful in the workplace. Of those surveyed, only 25% said colleges and universities were doing a good job of preparing students for the challenges of the global economy.
Employers across the board look for the following skills in hiring college grads: 89% seek effective oral and written communication skills, 81% look for critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills, and 79% look for real-world-setting skills such as internships or previous experiences, and the ability to apply those experiences in the workplace.
Until recommended changes can be instituted, it is important for students to understand the needs of employers, and to take courses that will help you build those skill sets. Take classes that will challenge you and tell potential employers that you will be able to hit the ground running.
