PERCEPTIONS OF HEALTHCARE HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTORS REGARDING HIRING WITH COLLEGE DEGREES OR WORK EXPERIENCE: A NARRATIVE QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

The purpose of this proposed research study was to examine and analyze the perceptions of Human Resource directors in the Healthcare field regarding hiring with college degrees or work experience, specifically, those in clinical vs. non-clinical positions. This study sought to uncover if employer demand for skills and education influence hiring and wage decisions. Many individuals question if it is necessary to obtain a college degree, given that many notable self-made entrepreneurs who skipped post-secondary education are deemed as successful. This study examined the hiring process for entry-level hires regarding whether gaining practical work experience is more relevant than having a college degree. The specific variables that were investigated included whether receiving practical work experience is more prevalent in hiring decisions than receiving a college degree. Specifically, some career fields require more practical work experience before being hired. Some career fields require a college degree and no practical work experience before being hired. This research study examined the hiring processes for entry-level hires who either have a college degree or only work experience. In this study, 75% of the participants stated that it is necessary to obtain a formal education as opposed to not having one. A few participants in this study shared that not only holding a formal education, but also having practical work experience prior to entering in the healthcare field is critical for success.