UNDATED (WKRC/CNN NEWSOURCE) - A college degree might not be as necessary as it once was.

Over the past few years, more companies have put an emphasis on 'skills' rather than 'degrees.'

The majority of U.S. working adults don't have a four-year degree.

So many companies are now hiring unlikely candidates through white-collar apprenticeship programs.

That includes IBM, Bank of America and Accenture.

The programs provide on-the-job training, benefits, coaching, and access to employee networks.

Many companies say not requiring a degree can also solve labor shortage issues and address bias in hiring practices.