New Jersey recently joined a handful of other states looking to make it easier for those without college degrees to attain high-paying state jobs. On the heels of an announcement that Utah is dropping its four-year degree requirement for state jobs, Executive Order No. 327 prioritizes work experience and skills training over four-year degrees. Other states, such as Alaska, Colorado, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, have made similar plans. Per the New Jersey order, the Civil Service Commission has six months to identify state jobs that don't require a degree and ensure those requirements align with job postings.

"Every American should have the ability to attain a good job with growth opportunities and secure their place in the middle class, regardless of whether or not they have a college degree," says New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. "Employment qualifications for good-paying jobs in our state workforce should not exclude individuals with qualifying experience, unique skillsets, and diverse backgrounds."

Murphy says the executive order will enable those without a college degree to earn more than $120,000 annually.