A client recently emailed:

“I have a situation that I was wondering if you could give some advice on:   I sometimes see a job listing for a position that my work experience matches very closely but for which a college degree is required.  I do not have this.  Is there any advice that you can offer?”

That can be a tough call, but as an executive recruiter, I remember situations where I pushed for a candidate even though they hadn't completed their degree because I felt strongly that he/she was qualified for the position. If you feel you are a strong fit for the role and the only glitch is your lack of a degree, I would submit for it - let them make the decision. Of course, if you can network your way into that company and have someone you know pass your résumé along, that will go further in overlooking the lack of a degree. An executive recruiter can be of assistance here as well to market your background and strengths based on what they know the client wants.

Unfortunately some companies will rule you out because of it, but others will see the value in your relevant experience. Some job postings may reference “undergraduate degree in x, y, or z or comparable work experience.” These employers understand the transferable value that can be derived from experience. In most cases though, there'll be no way of knowing so use your judgment and apply when you feel you're a strong candidate.

Part two of that question is do you bring it up in the cover letter to provide reasons or give background as to what happened, and my instinct is to say no, don't go there. Highlight your strengths and all the reasons why you are a strong candidate for the role, and leave the discussion of not having finished your degree for the interview. Remember you’re selling yourself for the position. It’s never smart to point out your weaknesses.

If you consistently find resistance to your lack of a degree, and if your schedule permits, it might be worthwhile to register for an evening or weekend course. This shows a good faith effort towards completing your degree, especially if you are shy just a couple of credits.

If you find yourself in this situation, a professional résumé writer can work with you to identify and highlight the educational strengths you do possess—be it the number of college credits you have completed, ongoing college coursework, professional seminars, in-house training, or continuing education courses—and downplay the lack of a formal degree.