Do you think College is a must step before my full time carrer?

Question

If I am a technical programmer and who has many years working experience. Should I spend my 4 years time in college to learn what I have already known in order to get the diploma?

First Serious Answerer = +10 Pts

Answer 1

It is always good to have the college degree, but in many cases it is not necessary. You will have to structure your resume in a format that clearly and thoroughly details your competency in this area. Use action words and highlight projects that you've done and how you contributed.

Ifyou did get your degree, you would be better off than most new college grads, because many times, they don't have the experience along with the degree. You will have BOTH! Some colleges even have programs that will allow you to use your work experience as college credit, so search around for those.

Nowadays, companies are looking for experience, and then secondarily, they use the degree to "weed" out the riff raff, and create more competition.

If you see where a degree will be worth it in the long run (as far as compensation and type of job) then go for it. Otherwise it may not be worth the money, time, and energy.

Answer 2

OK, you have many years of solid experience as a tech programmer. You do not necessarily need a 4-yr degree. I find it helpful to ask myself some questions like:
1. Am I being paid less than those programmers with degrees?
2. Have I interviewed for a job that I was perfectly qualified for and did not get an offer?
3. Am I getting promotions and good raises?
4. What do my performance reviews say?-gives insight into what management may feel-watch their wording carefully for clues.

Finally, it could do no harm harm to earn that 4-yr degree and then maybe a MS-depends upon your goals.
You could take advantage of company paid tuition programs if available and attend an accredit ted on line university and pursue the degree at your own pace and convenience or some schools give credit for work experience and have accelerated programs-these types of schools are great because you do not have to stop working to attend.

I do know for a fact that degreed individuals in general earn more money over their career span, esp if they have an MS and also it could open up other opportunities for you -provides more options and you are better able to compete when seeking a new position.

Good Luck whatever you decide.

Dugal45

Answer 3

Even though you have the knowledge and experience, you should go to college and get a diploma or degree. Your job options are usually better with a diploma or degree. You could go to a 2 year college and get your associate degree.

Answer 4

Wind,

A college degree will open a lot more doors for you. You have an advantage because you are already experienced.

Have your company pay your way and go part time. Also, if you decide to change careers, you won't be locked into the same field you are in now...you can spread out.

Answer 5

Yes becuase, even though you know the stuff, people aren't going to hire you if all they see is a diploma from North High School. People don't always look for knowledge as much as they do a degree.

Answer 6

no My friends dad only completed 9th grade and he makes well over 150 bucks an hour as a computer consultant. Yes it may be difficult to get into a big named place to work without a degree but if you can prove yourself resourceful and maybe bring some proof then they will take a chance on you.

Answer 7

Yes, I think you should just in case it covers something you might have missed. You probably can get better jobs and you will more likely get a job if you put that in your resume.