The Role of Education in Career Success

What is education? The first question is: Are we talking about formal education or informal education? We can learn in two ways. One is through formal education in schools. The other is by gaining experience, experimenting, and using social media. So how important is it to go to school and acquire the degree for your future success?

People have always seen education as the stepping stone to a successful future. Kids often believe that without education, their future won't be bright. From how things are currently, how true is the statement that education is the root to success?

Having the right skills and experience can help you get a job. But education can open doors that may stay closed otherwise. Most people have gotten jobs without degrees. Research shows that sites like ZipRecruiter are removing bachelor’s degree requirements from job postings. But to get hired without a degree, you need strong connections or advanced skills. It's tough to get hired without proper papers. But if you start your own business, you might succeed. In 2025, 56% of successful entrepreneurs and business people don't have education degrees. Still, they run multimillion-dollar businesses.

Relevance of the degree comes in when you want to land a job interview, especially in the corporate world. It might not land you the job, but it opens doors that would otherwise remain closed. In job interviews, having something unique is key to standing out. Education doesn’t matter if you don’t have the right skills or experience.

When it comes to general success, having a degree helps you in various ways in the work spaces.

1. Job promotion

In many jobs, those with the highest education usually earn promotions and top positions. Promotion due to performance does happen, but it takes years. In contrast, those with a degree can rise to certain positions faster.

2. Higher pay

Studies show that people with higher education can ask for higher salaries. They also tend to earn more than those without an education. Many jobs give their employees high salary offers based on their educational level. A committee, like the Teacher Service Commission in Kenya, raises teachers' salaries if they pursue further education.

3. Job interviews

A ResumeNow poll in Forbes reveals that many employers reject candidates due to their education level. This keeps skilled people with tools and experience from getting these chances if they lack certifications. Most companies prefer educated individuals. They find it easier for these workers to learn new skills and take on new roles.

While education is important for success, many other factors also contribute to achieving promising opportunities. This factors include:

1. Choosing the right course

The type of course or education you decide to pursue is important. One degree might not be enough to get you to success. Some courses need some backbone and complementary skills to bring success to your life.

2. Building practical skills

Having the right skills can give you an edge over possessing only a degree. Employers want people who can solve problems, share their knowledge, and benefit the team.

3. Experience and Internship

Your previous jobs and the skills you learned will shape your future chances. It creates the confidence your boss needs to higher you.

Conclusion

In summary, we can't link every success to education. Yet, having credentials doesn’t hurt your chances. Having papers suggests you promise success, along with other key features for opportunities.