The debate on the need for formal education, particularly in sectors like digital marketing, has gained momentum in recent years.

 
Traditional belief systems advocate for formal degrees as they suggest a significant level of dedication, persistence, and follow-through. Conversely, some industry experts believe that real-world experience, passion, and skills may have the potential to outperform a formal degree. I will explore the argument supporting the latter stance, discussing why not having a degree might be better than having a degree in digital marketing.

Degree - A Roadblock Rather than a Stepping Stone?

Rand Fishkin, co-founder of Moz, highlighted a few reasons that make a non-degreed candidate more appealing in the digital marketing space. For starters, the conventional wisdom imparted during a degree course often necessitates "un-training," as the teachings may be outdated or even detrimental in the fast-paced and dynamic digital marketing field.

Moreover, degree holders sometimes demonstrate a sense of entitlement, assuming that the world 'owes' them for the educational path they've taken. They often expect higher starting salaries, which could become an unnecessary financial burden for a business, particularly if the candidate lacks practical skills.

This argument is not against the merits of education per se, but against the insistence on a specific form of education when it comes to digital marketing.

Expensive Education vs. Real-world Experience

The cost of a university degree is another factor worth considering. Universities can charge up to $99,417 for three years of study, and the return on investment is not always guaranteed. Meanwhile, digital marketing is a field where real-world experience, industry certifications, and continuous learning can sometimes prove more valuable than formal education.

For instance, platforms like Google and various social media channels offer training programs that provide current techniques and strategies, crucial in a rapidly evolving sector like digital marketing. Online courses, webinars, and certification programs from reputed organizations can provide a practical understanding of the industry, often at a fraction of the cost of a formal degree.

A Degree is Not the Only Path

In an industry as dynamic and ever-changing as digital marketing, the worth of a formal degree can often be outmatched by a combination of real-world experience, dedication, passion, and the ability to adapt to the changing digital landscape. While a degree might still be an essential requirement for some employers, an increasing number of businesses are realizing the value of skills, practical knowledge, and adaptability over a piece of paper.

Navigating The Dynamic Landscape of Digital Marketing

Digital marketing requires individuals who are not just well-versed with the theoretical aspects, but also hands-on with the practical elements of the trade. It is a field that thrives on creativity, adaptability, and a solid understanding of consumer behavior.

As opposed to structured academic programs where a student are existing inside a bubble, gaining practical experience helps marketers to understand these nuances better.

The world of digital marketing is continuously evolving, with new tools, platforms, and strategies emerging every day. Formal degrees may sometimes struggle to keep up with this pace of change. On the other hand, self-learning individuals often stay updated with industry trends and developments, making them more likely to stay ahead of the curve.

The Emphasis on Skills Over Degrees

Another reason why not having a degree might prove to be beneficial in digital marketing is the shifting emphasis on skills. Today's digital marketing landscape places a high premium on specialized skills like Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, and more.

Gaining these skills doesn't necessarily require a degree. Instead, individuals can take advantage of various online resources like LinkedIn Learning and Udemy, which offer specialized courses in different digital marketing arenas. As the industry grows and changes, having a solid skills-based approach can prove more beneficial than a generalized degree.

Building a Network and Portfolio

The key to success in digital marketing is not just knowledge but also networking and creating an impressive portfolio. Whether it's running a successful blog, managing a popular social media page, or showcasing digital marketing projects done for clients, a strong portfolio can often be a more powerful testament to a marketer's abilities than a degree.

Building a robust professional network, connecting with industry leaders and peers, participating in online communities and forums, and attending industry events and webinars can also prove to be extremely beneficial. These activities often offer real-world insights, learnings, and opportunities that a classroom might not provide.

While this does not undermine the importance of education, it highlights the need for flexibility in how we view educational prerequisites, especially in fields like digital marketing. The industry, with its pace of development and evolution, requires individuals who can learn, unlearn, and relearn with agility. And sometimes, the best candidates are those who have strayed from the well-trodden path of formal education.