[madeofpalk]

I think it's also worth noting that I think there is a huge cultural difference when it comes to the value of a degree.

In IT in Australia, I've never had a problem with lack of degree, and I'm doing pretty well for myself - getting paid a decent amount of money in a place I love working in. I'm involved in a hiring process for new developers and I cannot remember the last time we've looked at or considered their educational background.