Wanting a wage increase doesn’t always require changing jobs or getting a promotion. According to a study by the U.S. Census Bureau, Nondegree Credentials (NDC), such as various professional certifications and licenses, can help boost income, especially for workers without a college degree.
These certificates can demonstrate that the holder has completed relevant training or mastered specific skills, leading to returns in the job market. Data from the Census Bureau shows that employees with such certificates earn a median income 16% higher than those in equivalent positions without certifications.
CBS News reported that Stacie Haller, Chief Career Consultant at ResumeBuilder.com, is guiding more job seekers to pay attention to these “nondegree credentials” as some employers no longer require applicants to have a college degree.
She told CBS News that these certificates or licenses can prove that job seekers possess “specific skills that will make you stand out among many candidates.”
“Nondegree credentials” refer to certificates or licenses that indicate a worker has specific qualifications or abilities. This includes various vocational and educational certificates issued by technical colleges or vocational schools, focusing on developing job skills and career readiness.
According to the Census Bureau, workers can obtain such certificates in various fields from food service to healthcare. For some, these certificates can even serve as an alternative to obtaining a college degree.
Workers with specific job knowledge and skills can also acquire various certifications and licenses by taking exams; these certifications usually have an expiration date and require renewal afterward. Certifications can be issued by industry associations (such as the American Nurses Association) or provided by private companies (such as Google). Additionally, certain professions (such as beauticians and hairdressers) must hold relevant licenses to practice.
Around 40% of workers in industries like healthcare assistance, food service, agriculture, fisheries, forestry, construction, and maintenance hold these “nondegree credentials.”
Researchers at the Census Bureau wrote, “Given the extensive qualification certification requirements in the healthcare industry and corresponding certifications for various software, programs, and equipment in the information technology field, this occurrence is not surprising.” In industries like agriculture and pipeline installation, workers handling hazardous chemicals, operating heavy machinery, or dealing with complex systems also need the appropriate qualification certifications.
In management, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, education, law, and other professional positions, the percentage of workers with such qualification certifications is slightly below 40%.
Haller pointed out that determining which qualification certification holds the most value in a specific field often requires in-depth research. However, she recommended that all job seekers strive to obtain a certification that proves their capability in applying artificial intelligence (AI).
She said, “Every company is exploring how to utilize artificial intelligence, and if you have relevant experience and understand how to apply AI in a business environment, you will definitely be valued.”