A long-standing prerequisite to all post-graduate programs has been a bachelor's degree. There are several exceptions to this rule in some technical and vocational schools such as law enforcement and aviation, but this is mostly a non-negotiable requirement. For example, premium career paths such as those in education or medicine require a PhD as a minimum requirement.
Another typical requirement in many career paths is that the applicant must have a bachelor's degree for jobs above entry-level positions. This is a softer requirement in the sense that there are other internal ways to gain access to these positions, such as intra-company promotions. Even then, some companies might require employees to obtain a bachelor's prior to being promoted. It is recommended to talk to your employer about your specific situation and determine whether a bachelor's degree is required in your field.
While gaining a bachelor's degree traditionally indicates a higher salary potential, there is emerging evidence indicating otherwise. There are numerous technical career paths, such as a computer specialist or nuclear technician, that only require an associate's degree from a vocational school. These careers have salary levels equal to or above those of typical bachelor's degree holders. Additionally, the increasing popularity of the Internet has provided online careers with similar salary levels to those who have a more formal education. As a result, you should explore your own interests and see if there are emerging career paths without this requirement.
Experts agree that while having a bachelor's degree is ideal, it is not the only way to reach your personal and career goals. Professional skills and proper networking can be just as important for reaching these goals. Experts maintain that a bachelor's degree is a only a platform, not a requirement, to increase your knowledge and to build your future.