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University degrees have historically been the marker of a certain level of learning and achievement, however, there are some recent reports where Gen Z have questioned the validity of a degree with AI and automation on the rise. So, in a landscape of new technology that is impacting job roles, does a degree still hold the same value?
Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive of Universities UK refers to research on UK graduates and business leaders where she notes “The benefits captured by this research are numerous – from job security and career ambitions, to earnings and social mobility – and highlight how highly UK universities are regarded not just by those who attend them, but also by those who hire their graduates and benefit from their skills.” This research reported that 73% of UK graduates credit going to university with enabling them to find the job they wanted in under a year and 79% of graduates say going to university enabled them to build skills that have proved professionally valuable. So, university can still be directly linked to finding jobs, and the skills needed to progress professionally. There are opportunities to network, connect with industry professionals and learn skills to help your career such as critical thinking.
Kyle M.K., a career trend expert at Indeed remarks that “AI won’t invalidate a solid education, but it will reward those who keep upgrading their toolkit” and that prioritizing lifelong learning alongside open conversations with employers about AI is the key to being able to soar in the wake advancements in technology.
As AI continues to grow, institutions are under increasing pressure to adapt to meet the changes this could bring to the workplace. Higher Education President and Education Advisor at Qatar Foundation Francisco Marmolejo advocates for focusing on essential skills, also known as soft skills. He thinks “more effective efforts can and should be dedicated to making sure that all students become competent in much more valued skills for the future of work, such as analytical skills, teamwork, and critical thinking." Allowing them to use these skills to harness AI and focus on learning that will remain valuable even with the expansion of AI capabilities.
Some skill areas such as data analysis and routine programming have been highly exposed to AI, however, fields like advanced project management, creative strategy and nursing are relatively insulated. Netflix’s co-CEO Ted Sarandos stated, “AI is not going to take your job, the person who uses AI well might take your job.” Which pinpoints the need for the skills and opportunities university can offer to students.
There is an assumption that AI’s impact will be a worldwide takeover, but the reality is more nuanced for both emerging job roles and education. Christine Cruzvergara, chief education strategy officer at Handshake warns against looking at a degree purely from a quantitative standpoint. She suggests “It’s shortsighted to focus only on immediate employment, as that makes the assumption that the value of higher education is only to get your first job. When in reality, higher education contributes to career advancement opportunities, exposure to a variety of fields, aids in self-discovery, and develops management and leadership skills.”
There is certainly evidence that points to a degree still holding value alongside the rise of new technology. The key, however, is choosing a course that will equip you with the skills to harness AI effectively in your work.
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