California Eliminates College Degree Requirement for 30,000 State Jobs

In a sweeping move to modernize government hiring and expand job opportunities, California has removed the college degree requirement for nearly 30,000 state jobs. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the policy shift, calling it a crucial step toward reducing employment barriers and improving the hiring process.

“This is about opening doors,” Newsom said. “Every Californian deserves the chance to build real-world skills and pursue a fulfilling career—including those who don’t have a college degree.”

Expanding Access to State Jobs

Under the new policy, thousands of government positions that previously required a four-year degree or other educational credentials will no longer have such prerequisites. The goal is to make state jobs more accessible to a broader range of applicants, particularly those with relevant skills and experience but no formal higher education.

The initiative comes as part of a broader state effort to expand economic opportunities and support a more inclusive workforce. Data shows that only 40% of Californians hold a college degree, leaving many skilled workers excluded from government job opportunities.

Doubling Degree-Free Jobs by 2025

The state plans to go even further. Newsom’s administration has set a goal to double the number of state jobs that don’t require a college degree by 2025.

“We’re proud to work with local partners across the state to advance workforce training and economic mobility,” Newsom said. “Through initiatives like our ‘First Jobs’ economic plan, we’re creating new career pathways while strengthening regional economies.”

The decision comes at a time when many Californians face barriers to higher education due to cost, family obligations, or other challenges. By removing degree requirements, the state aims to expand hiring pools and address workforce shortages in key sectors.

Job Passport: A New Tool to Showcase Skills

Alongside the hiring overhaul, Newsom also introduced a Job Passport, a digital tool designed to help job seekers showcase their skills and experience to potential employers. The platform allows individuals to highlight qualifications gained outside of college, such as vocational training, military service, or volunteer work.

“This tool helps workers demonstrate their capabilities and increases their chances of landing good jobs,” Newsom said.

A Workforce Strategy for the Future

The policy shift aligns with broader efforts to adapt to a changing job market, where practical skills and hands-on experience are increasingly valued alongside formal education. As industries evolve, California is positioning itself as a leader in workforce modernization, ensuring that qualified applicants—regardless of their academic background—have a fair shot at stable, well-paying jobs.

By removing degree requirements for thousands of state positions, the Newsom administration is not just reshaping hiring policies but also sending a strong message: in California’s workforce, skills matter just as much as diplomas.