In a significant move to modernize its hiring process and expand access to public service jobs, California has removed college degree requirements for nearly 30,000 state positions. This decision, announced by Governor Gavin Newsom, is part of an ongoing effort to reduce employment barriers and offer multiple pathways to well-paying jobs.
“This effort is part of the Newsom administration’s work to modernize state government and improve the hiring process by removing unnecessary barriers to public service jobs,” a press release stated.
The California Human Resources Department (CalHR) has been evaluating whether degrees or other educational requirements are essential for various job classifications. To date, the department has adjusted the qualifications for approximately 176 job classifications, emphasizing skills and experience over formal education.
Governor Newsom announced a new goal for 2025: to double the number of jobs without degree requirements, adding an additional 32,000 positions. These plans are currently under negotiation with employee unions.
“Every Californian deserves the opportunity to build real-life skills and pursue a fulfilling career – including those that don’t require college degrees,” Newsom said, citing the need for an inclusive workforce that values alternative skill-building pathways.
This initiative aligns with Newsom’s Freedom to Succeed Executive Order, which aims to prepare students and adults for the workforce of tomorrow by reducing barriers like unnecessary degree requirements.
The broader movement to focus on skills rather than degrees has gained traction nationwide, with states like Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia also removing degree requirements for most state jobs. Advocacy groups like Tear the Paper Ceiling highlight that nearly 50% of the American workforce is “skilled through alternative routes” (STARs), gaining expertise through on-the-job experience rather than formal education.
By embracing this approach, California aims to foster a more inclusive economy and provide opportunities for skilled workers from diverse backgrounds.
This article is a summary of, "California removes college degree requirements for nearly 30k state jobs," by Tate Miller, published by The Center Square.
