Even with 65% of college students questioning the value of higher education, there is an implicit assumption that a college degree will always be needed for professions that are higher up the value chain. Except until it’s not. Technological advancements were expected to disrupt mechanical or routine jobs but not “knowledge work”, however generative AI has demonstrated that creative and intellectual workers could soon be rendered obsolete. Even traditionally conservative industries like consulting have pivoted when it comes to their higher education requirements, with associates no longer required to have MBAs. Furthermore, in January 2023, McKinsey promoted its first partner that did not hold a university degree.

Is there a future where university degrees, and therefore universities themselves, cease to be necessary? If that is not the future we envision, what needs to change? How independent providers of micro certificates could be a part of a University degree?