| Disclaimer: After some downtime, I got a diploma in CS due to heavy pressure from my family (who all hold a doctorate or two...) Despite having a diploma now, all of the jobs/positions I had before were obtained on the basis that I do not have a degree. In terms of getting jobs without a degree, it honestly hasn't been very difficult, though I don't really have the experience of someone with a degree to compare with. I got my first computer quite late in my life, but I was very enthusiastic (obsessed really) about learning programming/web development/web security. I've been fortunate enough to run into people who for the most part, appreciate and can vouch for my knowledge. Heck, even people who after interviewing me, took a chance and convinced skeptics to give me a chance. I won't say I was never rejected by a company simply because I do not possess a degree, but it has never really bothered me. I've worked with many great companies and teams on many great projects and if those other doors didn't close for me, I probably wouldn't have had the opportunities I had. Something I've noticed though: To many, a degree is a sign of being able to commit and follow through with something. The lack of a degree, especially for someone as young as myself, is disconcerting/a red flag to many. And that's perfectly fine, I get the concerns. Not everyone will take the time or effort to understand why you never got a degree (financial difficulties or otherwise), they may just write you off. That being said, I do recommend anyone who is blessed with the opportunity, to go and finish a degree. I've seen firsthand the connections some prestigious programs provide that I was never able to get, and most importantly, many people simply do not have the discipline to delve deep into the various areas necessary to allow you to be successful in this field. There's no doubt it's tiring and it's definitely no easier than following a set curriculum. |