LinkedIn CEO Questions Value of College Degrees in AI Era

LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky discusses the evolving landscape of education and employment in the age of AI, suggesting that traditional college degrees may become less relevant by 2025. He emphasizes that skills-based hiring is becoming increasingly important, with companies focusing more on candidates’ abilities rather than their educational credentials. Roslansky notes that AI is accelerating this shift, as it’s creating new job opportunities that don’t necessarily require traditional degrees. The article highlights LinkedIn’s data showing that 45% of recruiters on their platform are explicitly using skills data to fill positions, marking a significant shift from degree-based hiring. The CEO points out that AI tools are democratizing access to knowledge and learning, making it possible for individuals to acquire valuable skills outside traditional educational institutions. He particularly emphasizes how AI is creating new roles and transforming existing ones, requiring continuous learning and adaptation. The article also discusses how companies are increasingly offering their own certification programs and alternative credentials, which are gaining recognition in the job market. Roslansky predicts that this trend will continue to grow, potentially reshaping the traditional relationship between education and employment. The key conclusion is that while degrees won’t become obsolete, their importance as the primary credential for employment is diminishing in favor of demonstrable skills and practical expertise.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/linkedin-ceo-will-college-degrees-matter-ai-future-of-work-2025-10