InformationWeek

May 25, 1999

I am a network specialist in my early 20s with lots of experience in the hardware and networking market, but no college degree. Will the lack of a degree affect my marketability with a new company, or will my in-depth experience make up for my lack of formal training? Should I look to certifications, or is a degree pretty much required? Or, should I look to change my views from hardware to software programming?

Any of your "what if's" are possibilities. My view on this is clear: Long-term, the effects of not having a bachelor's degree will hurt you. You will carry that monkey for the rest of your life. Make the time now. You may regret it while you're burning the midnight oil, but as your career progresses, you'll never be stopped for lack of a degree. If you can't bring yourself to do it, don't settle for anything less than an associate's degree. Also, talk to some professionals more seasoned that you who are also without a degree and see what pearls of wisdom they have to offer.

More Questions:
My goal is to become a CIO. Should I pursue a techno-MBA or a management of technology degree?

What is my likelihood of landing a job in the information technology field with only an associates degree?