[jeffdavis]

CS is one of the fields where you really can get a good education outside the traditional system. I feel like I did. Don't let anyone tell you that these things are scary and hard, and you need a university to guide you.

I hear MIT's OCW is quite good now, though I haven't used it much myself. Might be a good place to start. Honestly, there are many great resources out there; just pick something and get started.

Cheap schools are a good idea, and I completely agree with that. But it can be hard to work and learn on a schedule; many people would do much better if they are able to learn at their own pace.