The path chosen depends on the -immediate- goals of the individual concerned. While I agree with the degree giving a "broad knowledge base" that doesn't mean squat if the person applies for a PC specialist, or anything similar. These are technical, platform/software specific jobs... in these cases knowing a little about a lot is less valuable than knowing a lot about the specific topic.
My speciality training from the US Navy was in component and modular level electronics and troubleshoot/repair-ing... for which a received a CERTIFICATE. I can jump to work and do what is needed. But in order to advance I need the skills that working on a degree can give you. It's not the degree that makes the manager (the paper helps) it is the interpersonal communication skills learned while achieving that degree.