New data has revealed that over half of professionals experience 'degree regret', with financial barriers and the rising value of work experience cited as key factors behind this shift in perspective. The research, conducted by AI-based career app Kickresume, surveyed over 1,000 people globally to explore attitudes towards higher education and its impact on careers.
Key Findings on Degree Regret
The survey found that 52% of people expressed some level of regret about their degree. Among them, 23% had slight regrets, 21% regretted their subject choice, 4% would have chosen to enter the workforce directly, and another 4% would have pursued a vocational path. In contrast, 48% reported no regrets at all.
Industries with the highest regret rates include science-based fields (71%), law (65%), and education (64%), where degree-holders reported slight or strong regrets. While many would make different choices, 55% needed their degree to secure their current job, indicating that success in finding a role does not always lead to job satisfaction.
Use of Degree Knowledge
Regarding the application of degree knowledge, 36% of respondents use what they learned at university daily, 13% weekly, and 14% rarely. Only 8% reported never using their degree knowledge.
Financial Considerations
Financial concerns are prominent: 20% of people believe their degree will never be financially worthwhile. However, many see a quicker payoff: 28% within 2–5 years, and 18% in less than two years. Others took longer: 15% between 6–10 years, and 8% a decade or more. Only 8% had no financial costs.
Value of Work Experience
Work experience is the leading career driver, with 36% of respondents naming it their most valuable asset. While 30% credit a mix of experience and education, 14% say networking mattered most. Only 6% say their degree credential paid off, and another 6% say the knowledge gained was most helpful.
Barriers to Higher Education
Money is the primary barrier: 26% of dropouts cited financial reasons. Other factors include seizing a job opportunity (23%), choosing the wrong field (16%), prioritising mental health (16%), and family reasons (5%).
The 'Degree Ceiling'
The survey finds that a 'degree ceiling' still exists: 63% report that not having a degree somewhat impacted their careers, with 26% noting a noticeable effect. The remaining 37% said it didn't affect them much, with 17% saying it had no impact. However, 70% of those without a degree are open to or actively considering studying in the future. 30% believe it's unnecessary or that the opportunity has passed.
Changing Perceptions
Among degree-holders, 55% believe that a university degree is becoming less important in their industry. 24% say the value is about the same, and only 21% say it is becoming more important.
Peter Duris, CEO and Co-Founder of Kickresume, commented: 'Our survey revealed mixed feelings about how degrees shape careers. Over half of professionals expressed some regret, with 21% wishing they had chosen a different subject. It's hard to know the right decision at a young age, but degrees still open doors: 63% of those without a degree say not having one has limited their careers. The biggest reason degrees are losing their edge is financial barriers. With student loan debt, many young people wonder if a degree is worth it. Our data shows 26% drop out for financial reasons, and one in five feel their degree will never pay off. However, there is a hunger for knowledge: 70% of those without a degree are open to studying, and 36% use what they learned at university daily. A degree is still a starting point, but real-world experience increasingly defines a career.'
