Isn't it still;
If a degree is required for your job, then you are a professional.
If not, you can only act professional.
Most majors app's say College degree required, but didn't a few say preferred?
I have a BS degree. I have a friend that was hired by AA with no HS diploma. They postponed his class date until he finished his GED. He was in night school working on his GED when hired by AA. He's an intelligent guy.