This is a statement that many people in colleges and universities have heard many times before; “Get a good degree and you will get a good job”.
Is it possible to depend on having just a degree in 2026?
With rapidly changing technology, AI becoming part of everday work. Employers looking for practical skills and students have so much more pressure to think about than just completing their graduation.
This raises the question:
What matter the most for getting a job – a degree or practical skills?
It doesn’t mean student need to choose between them a good degree can give you a strong academic foundation, while practical skill will help them utilize this knowledge in the real world.
And when you combine both you can get a great career path.
Why is a degree still matter?
Getting a degree not only help students acquire information but make them eligible for many professions. For instance, in pursuing a B. Com, a student acquires information regarding accounting, finance, business, and economics.
An MBA student will acquire information regarding management, marketing, human resource, and business strategy.
This academic knowledge create foundation of every student.
But, there is one problem: having information and implement it practically is both different things. If you have knowledge of the subject but don’t know how to do it practically in real world than you are not the perfect fit in any organization.
That’s where skills come in.
Why are practical skills more valued in 2026?
Assume that two fresh graduates are applying for same position.
They have equal academic credential and same grades.
However, one of them has gained hands-on experience, knows the industry software, has taken part in an internship, and has acquired the skills needed for the job and the other candidate is lacking these knowledge and skills. Who will be more attractive?
It is obvious that the one who has something to actually do practically.
This is why practical skills are becoming very important for students.
Employer wants to work with candidates who are able to solve problems, communicate effectively, use technologies, and learn fast.
Degree only show what you studied and not what you can do.
Degree vs Skills: Do You Really Have to Choose?
This is the interesting part where we should know if we need to choose: Degree vs Skills.
Choosing one over another is not the main topic and not a good decision.
In simple language: Degree is knowledge, Skills are application and Experience is the practical exposure.
If you already have a good degree, and you add relevant skills than this will make your profile more useful for the job market.
And if you are in college, this year can be a great time to build skills which help you in getting a good job.
4 Skills you can learn alongside your Degree
Digital Marketing with AI
AI is changing the way marketers work. From content ideas, research, competitor analysis, to campaign planning, AI tools can help marketers in every task.
Learning Digital Marketing with AI will help students understant both traditional digital marketing concepts and new AI-POWERED workflows.
You can explore areas such as:
- SEO
- Social media marketing
- Content marketing
- Email marketing
- Search engine marketing
- Website analytics
- Online advertising
Students who are intersted in marketing, business, social media, or entrepreneurship can opt for digital marketing skills alongside their degree.
Spoken English and Communication Skills
The student might be good in technical knowledge but may find it difficult to perform well in the interview process due to a lack of confidence while communicating.
Good communication skills can help in:
- Interview process
- Presentation
- Team discussion
- Communication with the clients
- Professional emails
- Workplace interaction
This is why Spoken English and effective communication skills will be a valuable addition to add in your skill section.
Data Science & AI
Data is getting more important in every sector.
Students who like working in technology,data analysis, mathematics, and problem solving may choose Data Science and AI as their additional skill area.
Study of data, data analysis, AI, and other relevant technologies can help find several modern career options.
General AI & Digital skills
Being an AI expert is not necessarily a requirement at all times.
Even the basics of AI and digital skills can assist students in getting used to modern technology in the workplace environment.
Acquiring knowledge about productivity apps, AI assistants, search engines, and other digital tools can make routine work more convenient.
What Skills Should Fresher Learn in 2026?
There is no particular list of learning skills for every student.
You should choose your list of skills as per your area of interest.
However, some useful skills students can learn include:
- Communication
- Artificial Intelligence
- Team work
- Adaptability
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Technical skills
Don’t just learn any skill because it is trending. Avoid going with the trend and try to focus on your interest and choose your field wisely.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re pursuing a degree and also want to develop practical skills, you don’t have to wait until graduation to start.
At Urbantract Education, you can explore online degree courses along with skill-development programs such as Digital Marketing, Digital Marketing with AI, Data Science & AI, and Spoken English.
Choose a course based on your interests and career goals, learn at your own pace, and start building skills that you can actually use in the workplace.
Your degree is just the beginning. The right skills can help you take your career further.
Explore Urbantract Education courses and find the learning path that’s right for you.
