A number of renegade greenies recognised qualification (6)

I believe the answer is:

degree

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'qualification' is the definition.
(university qualification)

'a number of renegade greenies recognised' is the wordplay.
'DEGREE' is hidden in amongst the letters.
But, I am uncertain how the hidden word is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for degree that I've seen before include "Gradation on a scale" , "See 13" , "Rank" , "an award at Edinburgh, maybe" , "Academic award - stage on a scale" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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