Newsom removes college degree requirement for 30K state government jobs
California Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced a groundbreaking plan to double the number of state jobs that will no longer require a college degree. This move aligns California with states like Minnesota, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, which have already eliminated degree requirements for most public jobs.
In his Master Plan for Career Education framework, Newsom revealed his intention to eliminate the college degree requirement for 30,000 state jobs. Looking ahead, he aims to double this number by removing the requirement for an additional 30,000 jobs in the coming years. The overarching goal is to help Californians leverage their skills and knowledge to make significant strides towards a degree or career.
Newsom emphasized the importance of providing every Californian with the opportunity to develop practical skills and pursue fulfilling careers, regardless of whether they hold a college degree. He stated, “California is working to ensure that every person has what they need to secure a well-paying, long-lasting job, creating an economy that supports all families.”
The framework also includes the establishment of “Career Passports,” which will create a digital record of individuals’ skills and abilities for job applications. Furthermore, veterans will benefit from the plan by being able to earn college credit for their military experience.
This shift away from emphasizing the need for a college degree to secure employment has garnered support from various quarters. Tesla CEO Elon Musk, a close ally of President-elect Donald Trump, has voiced his belief that the value of a college education is somewhat overrated. Musk highlighted the importance of trades such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, stressing that these skills are more crucial than certain academic majors.
Newsom’s initiative comes on the heels of a report by the Public Policy Institute of California, which found that a significant number of students at for-profit colleges do not graduate. The report revealed that only 36% of students graduate from California State University within four years, with 62% graduating within six years.
The bipartisan support for eliminating college degree requirements for state jobs has been growing. Maryland, under Republican Governor Larry Hogan, became the first state to abolish degree requirements for most state jobs in 2022, paving the way for other states to follow suit.
In 2023, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued an executive order to remove the college degree requirement for 92% of state government jobs, a move that received accolades from Republican state lawmakers. The 2024 GOP platform framework also expressed support for the creation of more affordable alternatives to traditional four-year college degrees.
Overall, Newsom’s plan represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce in California. By prioritizing skills and abilities over formal degrees, the state aims to open up opportunities for all its residents to access meaningful and sustainable careers.
