Degree requirements

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Skills beyond the degree

Why is a four-year degree a primary requirement for most jobs? Are alternative credentials—like certifications and on-the-job experience—equally valued?

  • We’re refocusing our internal recruiting efforts around experience and skills, instead of degree credentials.
  • We’re working with community, business, and academic leaders through Detroit Regional Talent Compact to improve our region’s access to people with post high-school education credentials, and to reduce equity gaps.
  • We’ve also benefited from the expertise of Lumina Foundation and their focus on opening equitable pathways to work through education.

The higher education gap

51%

51.3% of all working-age Americans attain education beyond high school.

32%

31.6% of Black working-age Americans attain education beyond high school.

24%

24.5% of Latinx working-age Americans attain education beyond high school.

38%

38% of Americans believe companies often require too many academic credentials and education requirements when hiring for an open position.

Sources = Center for Economic and Policy Research; Kelly national survey conducted by Atomik Research, Feb 2021

Our commitment is clear

At Kelly, we won’t rest until more barriers to workforce entry and advancement are undone. The result? A more inclusive workforce where brighter futures are widespread. This commitment requires long-term grit, new thinking, strong partnerships, and bold action.

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