Americans are questioning the value of a college degree

These days, however, the shine has worn off. The once-obvious idea that a college degree guarantees success—and is worth the massive debt that often comes with it—has begun to crumble under scrutiny. In an article for the Martin Center, Sophia Damian highlights recent polling data showing a growing disillusionment with the value of a traditional bachelor’s degree.

She writes:

“America’s latest college graduates, however, have increasingly begun to question this narrative. A recent Indeed report found that 51 percent of Gen Z job seekers believe their degrees were ‘a waste of money.’ In today’s rapidly changing job market, a college education no longer obviously provides the advantage it once did.”

One major factor behind the shift: the rise of artificial intelligence, which has many students questioning whether a four-year degree can still equip them with relevant, future-proof knowledge. In response, more employers are abandoning degree requirements in favor of skills-based hiring.

Damian goes on:

“College degrees do provide some advantage when it comes to job-seeking or wages, for now; however, alternative routes such as trade schools, apprenticeships, and microcredentials are gaining increasing popularity among young individuals who wish to improve their skill sets without spending four years and tens of thousands of dollars on a degree that may eventually provide only a negligible benefit.”