Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO with a net worth of $242 billion, recently commented that “college is overrated.” He made this statement in a video shared on X, where he voiced concerns about the diminishing value of traditional education.
The video came from his first solo event in support of Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign on October 17, aimed at encouraging voters in Philadelphia’s suburbs to register early.
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During the event, Musk highlighted how many people spend years in college accumulating debt without gaining practical skills. He believes that while he holds degrees in Physics and Economics, a four-year degree is not necessary for success. Musk emphasized the importance of practical skills, noting that hands-on professions like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters are more valuable than some academic degrees.
He reiterated that society should not push the notion that success requires a college degree. Musk has long been critical of traditional education, stating in 2019 that a college degree was not needed to work for Tesla. He has repeatedly pointed out that learning can happen outside of formal education.
Musk’s views align with other tech leaders like Apple CEO Tim Cook and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who also question the necessity of a college degree for success. Both have emphasized the value of skills, talent, and real-world experience over formal academic qualifications.