[johnpython]

We are extremely fortunate today to have resources that enable one to independently study the entire contents of a CS degree in the fraction of time on their own schedule. Pursuing a CS degree while actively employed in the field is a foolish waste of money.

[oblib]

That's what I'm thinking too. I have spent so much time over the years studying and working with computers and languages and digging into specifics to accomplish a task that a degree would really mostly be a widow dressing that would be counter productive to obtain by distracting me from learning things more important in a real work environment.

I don't mean to imply I'm an wizard. I'm far from that. I've learned on a need to know basis and focused on building web apps and platforms to run them on. I do have a clue about what I don't know though, and that too is important.

But, as you've pointed out, most everything needed to learn how to do this stuff right is freely available and easily accessible and constantly evolving so at best you're learning with a snapshot of somewhat outdated material in a classroom. That's not a bad way to learn, but it's not how I've learned. I dove in headfirst and started making stuff, learning as I went.

Still, as to the original comment, I admire the hard work it takes to get a degree when one really applies themselves. It's no small accomplishment and I'm sure I'd learn a lot if I went through the process, and that I'd enjoy it too. I would love to be able to do that.

[locococo]

I decided to pursue a masters degree in CS while working because I realized hat I needed to gain more knowledge to grow professionally. I doubt that someone who studies a CS curriculum online without going through an accredited program is remotely comparable to someone who did.

All I am trying to say is that we have to differentiate between CS professionals and self thought programmers. There is a difference and I am stunned that people don't see the benefit of a university education.