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Which degree for me?

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by emj 2 views

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Hi, gang, I'm back again, this time around I am seeking advice with regard to going back to school for my degree. I have put the computer support business on hold as I don't feel confident enough to start it up as yet. I was very impressed by the response to my posting, and in the process, think others were helped by the advice and comments offered. I am hoping for a similar response to this query as well.

Here is my background thus far...I am a 39 year old woman who has worked for 10+ years doing desktop support, with an emphasis on technical support (more hardware/OS issues than application support). I have attended three colleges over the years without getting a degree from any one. Now, being unemployed and having loads of time on my hands, I've decided to take the plunge and go back to school. Ideally, I am hoping to get some sort of job and attend school at night.

The problem is choosing which degree to pursue. I find the Computer Science degree to be way too far outside the realm of my interest. The other option is a degree in Information Systems (Technology), which is more to my liking. I would eventually love to work in a hospital setting whether it be doing technical support or manipulating data, so I want to go the best route possible to fulfill my final goal. I had thought of going the route of Health Information Technology, but that actually sounds more impressive than what it is. There is only one school in the state I live in which offers this degree, and it's only an AS. Doing research on what health technologists make didn't impress either. If I am going to get a degree, I need to get it in a field that will offer the best opportunities. While I realize some areas of IT are struggling, I still feel it is where I want to continue my career. Any thoughts, comments, suggestions?

Thank you!

121 replies

by jimhm

Degrees are like vehicles - it doesn't matter what kind you have as long as you got one. Most position require a BS/BA/MBS/MBA they never say in what - just want the paper. So first off - this time just finish and get the degree! It look much better on your resume...

Secondly - if you were or still thinking, of starting your own business - then switch gears and get a BA in Business Management (also helpful if you want to going into IT Management). But if you want to stay in the technical arena - then you have to figure out were you want to play.

If you want to write and design programs, applications/systems then - Computer Science is the degree - its normally heavy on the C++/JAVA and other languages - learn the interworkings of designing applications/systems - Data Normailization - database design - and all kinds of other geeky stuff... for applications/systems.

If you want more in the line of technology support - then information systems technology is the direction - that covers more in the line of spreadsheets, word processors, and desktop applications - HTML/JAVA/JAVAScripts -

Take a look at the requirements for each degree and see if those areas are what you want to be doing.

But my question major question as an employer would be 3 colleges and no degree? - "Why did she quit?" - Thats if the resume didn't show a connection - like traveling for contracts or something like that.

I wouldn't specialize in Healthcare Information Technology either - If you are going to specialize wait until you go on to your Masters and then get a Master of Technology Management degree. The Health or Healthcare specialty is more of a Hype title..

Best of luck - check the Requirements - see if what they are covering is of interest - and complete the degree.

Truth about business is - "It doesn't matter what you got your degree in - all they care about is -you got one."

by padeo

From your earlier comments, I'd say you have a flair for desktop support - and enjoy doing it. That's good. However, it is only a subset of what you'd learn on the way to getting your degree. You like manipulating data: that tells me you'd probably be happy doing something close to the end-user, which points towards Information Systems.

I'd say go for a program that incorporates systems, hardware, software and business courses. I'm not too particular about the degree's title - Information Systems (Technology, etc...) The content is what matters and it will all be useful for the Computer Support Business.

Bottom line is that you should brace yourself and be prepared to weather more stuff than your immediate interests on the path to the degree. But, stick with it till the very end - it'll pay off in the end. It's all a platform - a platform on which you may build whatever takes your fancy later on. And I think it will give you a confidence boost too! Have fun.

by jfipande

I am a student at Edith Cowen University, and I'm interested in Network Administration. what degree/s should I be aming for?

by skipperusn

Just remember a BS or BA degree is a degree in the general study of a subject - not very specific or get down in the dirt studies. If you get a CompSci degree you get a little of JAVA, a little HTML, a little COBOL, a little this and a little of that... (From English to Science)..

When you get a certification - those are vendor or topic specific - you get a Certification in Networking - or MS Windows suppport - Novell - or CISCO - or Peoplesoft...

Get your degree - whether it is in Information systems or CompSci or Math - then get some certifications in what you want to do ... With a degree it will always open the doors -

by sleepin'dawg

The degree itself isn't important so much as what is done with it. A degree helps to get the interview but it's what you've learned along the way that's going to count in the end. We've got a lot of degreed people working for us - the initials aren't really important nor are their certificates. The bottom line is never mind the piece of paper, can you do the job or not. Prove it! We have a kid who works part time for us; he's
still in high school so of course he has nothing on paper - yet. He puts in about 20 hrs/wk and he works full time during the summer. His father is one of our partners so that is how we acquired his services. He is only sixteen but he knows more
about connectivity than people twice his age. We
don't care that he's in high school. He does the
job and makes more than 75K/yr doing so. A degree
shows you are trainable and whether it's a BA, BS or anything else is of only marginal importance. A degree from CalTech Stanford or MIT might carry a little more "star" quality than most but it does help to have your degree from a school that people have heard of and doesn't make them ask,"Say what? Where in hell's that?" Sorry about that but best of luck in getting what you want.

by husp1

Now let's be a bit objective here. 3 years collage but no degree? not even an AS? kind of wasted you money but then it is yours to waste, perhaps your intrest should take precedent and you should look into a med field. right now the demand for these type of jobs should be on the upswing.(ALL depending on your location.) If you have been isolated in type of work for a long period perhaps a school councler might be of assistance. Some things that you have learned might well be applyed elsewere but you need to be prepared to be overwelmed with choices. Be Pratical.Do you think that the employers of today want the "Fresh out of school" person or the "Honeing my skills" type. be prepared for a lot of tough personal questions on the face to face interview.

by wolf2002

I say good for you that you are on your way to deciding to finish your education. I am in a very similar situation except for the fact that I am in my last year of my degree program. I have also attended 3 colleges, but it has never come up in an interview. The best advice I can give is to take as many elective IT courses as possible. This will prepare you for taking certification exams, where the real money is in today's IT market.

by chaslbolt

I have been in computers over 35 years... and have a licensed business - for over 7 years. It doesn't matter which degree you get.. it will only get your foot in the door. The flycatcher is what you know and computer certifications. There are many facets of computer support, so the certifications will depend on the area you move into.. But don't wait!! Start your support busines NOW. It will take you a couple of years just to get established. My business has grown by word of mouth - no advertising - and I stay busy!!!

by hmatarab

It does not matter very much the type of degree that you should aim for. I have only a few certificates but with my 7 years of experience in the computing work, I was able to get a lot of requests for assistance from companies and individuals who nare very much willing and committed to pay me for my services. Computing or IT is a big field and it matters very much the area you specialize in through certificate course that will get you in to earn some good money.

by vltiii

...additionally hiring is on a steady upswing. It may never get to where it was during the dotcom days, but certainly moving in that direction. Having experience is a big selling point. Having something to indicate formal training only adds to your marketability.

by vltiii

You answered your own question. If Information Systems interest you then that is the route to go. You shouldn't pursue a particular degree because someone recommended it (unless they're a college counselor). I'm more curious though, if you've attended three colleges in the past and didn't finish any, what will be different this time?

by emj

Let's see, I could blame my parents for not giving me any direction or support, or I could blame myself for having no clue when I initially attended college. I had no interest in school when I was there, and the courses I took were all over the place as I didn't know what I wanted to do. I ended up going to work and deciding along the way to take a few classes here and there. Now that I've worked for a while, and narrowed down my interests, I can finally set a goal and work toward attaining it.

I also moved three times, so my first school was in one city/state, the second two were in another city/state, and now I'm in my third city/state and ready to complete what I have started. I don't think I'm alone in being in this position. I know a number of people who have stopped and started, just like me, because they didn't feel like they were getting anywhere.

I have a hard time getting the confidence and drive to push myself as I need to do. I have a wonderfully supportive husband now who I know will help me (to help us) in the long run. It's going to be tough, and a struggle, but I feel I have no choice but to get my degree now (which is the motivation I needed I guess?). Life is filled with choices, but some of us don't realize the choices we have until later in life.

Actually, the number of schools I have attended without getting a degree has NEVER come up in an interview. I interview well, have an excellent work history and stellar references. Getting my degree will be one more way to get my foot in the door. :)

by jimhm

Your resume would of explained why to me - so that wouldn't of come up during the interview (concerning the college) like I said in my post.

I would get a degree - it doesnt matter in what it only matters in you get one. I have a CompSci - Math and working on Master of Technology Mgt...but the CompSci and Math - got my foot in the door - period they didn't care what they were in... could of been Sand Box 101... or Quantum Physicics -

Once you're in the door then you sell... the skills like you say ..

Have faith in your talents - have faith in your skills - and go for that degree - it will help (I would go for the Information Services - fits more to what you are interested in)...

Go For It... Have Faith - And never give up..Best Wishes and Good Luck

by kblack1a

Get the degree, and like JimHM said as long as it?s a somewhat related degree, go for it. But hurry up and do it before you reach 40. After that age discrimination will prevent any opportunity regardless of degrees, past performance, skills gained or any other positive you might posses. 20ish HR types can't see past age and look for ability. Good luck.

by sckinz1

After attending four colleges and many years after my Freshman year, I graduated (same reason, moved to different cities and no desired goal). I finished through night classes so I could continue my employment. The degree made all the difference in the world! It doesn't matter that I had accumulated 247 hours, employers want to see a degree. I have finally settled in IT and will start a Masters in IT Management this Fall. Good luck.

by blueknight

Frankly, I don't see a problem having attended multiple schools without getting a degree. I did the same thing myself. I wanted to be a cop, but fell into the IT field purely by accident. By age 20 I was in management and ended up getting transferred a number of times to different locations in the state.

Eventually I ended up going back to school (after about 10 years) and took night classes. Since there was no such thing as desktop support back then, I majored in Business Data Processing which gave me a background in programming, analysis, databases and management in addition to accounting and other general business classes.

That turned out to be very good because it applies even today. Fortunately I started my career back when companies had the time (and desire) to provide on-the-job training. Degree? I have dual AA degrees, the first in Computer Science and the second in Business Management.

Things are different today, so go for that degree, it'll do you good. You'll learn a bunch about the field, but more importantly, about yourself. By attaining your degree you'll show potential employers you finish what you start. If you end up becoming self employed, you will have gained the knowlege you'll need to be successful.

Personally, I think any scholastic program that provides you with knowlege on how business functions and on how IT can be used to assist business management is the best foundation.
If you *really* like hospitals, you can specialize later, but I wouldn't make it my main emphasis at the outset. After seeing the stuff our hospital IT folks have to deal with, I'm glad I'm not over there... it another world even if it is IT.

Best of luck to you in your endeavor. Hopefully you'll end up like me... able to look back at 38 years in a career I never chose, but that has been more of a fun hobby than anything else. I enjoy it so much, I haven't even thought about retirement. Law enforcement? I actually did end up being a cop, but as a reserve in my spare time. See, you can do anything you put your mind to!

by rocketanne

EMJ,
You are totally correct in your assessment that many folks got to school for years without actually completing a degree. It's only a detriment if you never bother to complete it. Since you are now re-starting the process. Look at the classes required for the 2 or 3 degrees that interest you. Think about which classes fit your interests and your career goals and then set up a plan to complete the one that fits you. I just did that with my son who wasn't sure where to start. We narrowed the degree choices to 3 or 4 and looked at which classes were common and then which were unique to a particular degree. Based on the unique classes he selected a degree that will be interesting to earn as well as valuable after he graduates. You may want to compare the degree requirements to classes you've already completed and then select a direction that will get a much credit from your prior courses as possible.

Good luck and don't quit. Maturity will make you a better student this time.
R/A

by dinotech

You can drop me a line if you need some outside support. I was in the same situation as you are and I am currently working on my A+ certification. My plan is to start a consulting business with a focus on business intelligence and processes, network design and implementation, and technical support. I like working with people and technology and I want to let people know it is okay for them not to invest in a technology that will not help them with their business.

So drop me a line and let me know how things are going.

by black panther

I have been in IT ( Now working in Government ) for over 20 years with no degree. I am not saying don't get one - as it will definately improve your employment chances. Some Departments will not even look at you unless you have a degree. Try to find one that interests you otherwise you will be bored with it. On the other hand, I have seen many graduates come out of Uni/College with degrees and they find that experience is the best teacher of all - with some employers now recognising this. In the end a degree is a 'base' a piece of paper to prove you have learned the basics and are capable of studying. The other side of the coin is the person you are! --- I have seen people who topped the class with degrees yet are incapable of communicating with others.

by chucksel

Get the degree. In the mean time, lie like hell on the resume. Get the look-alike degree from your local spammer.

Just kidding!

;o)

by websitemonkey

I'm currently on the fence on the decision to go back to school or work full-time. I've tried the work part-time and go to school and I just can't seem to manage it very well. My question in response to chucksel's post is something my friends and I have discussed before: what if you lied about having a degree? My friend just got his degree and no one asks him for proof when he interviews. So, why not lie?

by robertmi

You have ten years experience so an A+ certification should be a breeze, and it is a short course. It might be just what you need to get started in computer support. ( I didn't catch your earlier post). If you feel that you are light in app support you can do courses on that as well. The certification might also get you a job while you set out on the longer degree pathway. If you have done some planning to set up in business, you might want to start off with that and study part time. The reality is, that degrees are two a penny, and there are thousands of graduates around. Even if you get a degree you might not be able to find a job. Save yourself the pain - accept that the earnings will be low initially, but set yourself some realitic goals for business expansion and knowledge acquisition - pin your ears back and go for it!

by emj

I think that part of getting this degree, to me, is personal, rather than professional. This would be an accomplishment for me, a goal to be set and attained. Along the way I hope to gain valuable knowledge and insights into myself, and others. I am currently preparing to take some CLEP exams, and sign up for my first course (Bio with lab, oh, joy!). I already have 30 credits toward my degree, and think I can pull it off over the next three years.

I thank all of you for your comments, suggestions, and words of encouragement!

by weblink

You will be well-served to get your degree. There is a lot of debate about whether or not certifications are useful. The point of certs and degrees is to both learn from the process of achieving them, and to have documentation that you have accomplished a certain level of learning.

Certs and degrees are both important. Ultimately, what you know will prove more than any piece of paper, but many employers require a degree. You may also need a degree, or a higher degree, to get promoted. The importance of having certs/degrees somewhat depends on the employer.

Even if you're planning to work for yourself, it won't hurt to have the educational background. If nothing else, getting a degree builds character and proves that you can persevere.

by comptech3

I decided late in life that I liked computers better than turning wrenches. I started majoring in Network Administration, but decided to change my major to Management. I'm not necessarily looking to be a manager, but I perceive that the soft skills I will gain will be useful, regardless of which direction I go. Since I currently support computers for a college, I get free tuition vouchers. It takes more time, but I'm getting there.

by vltiii

I would be weary of any advice that downplays the importance of continued education. Earning a degree opens up opportunities that otherwise may not have been available to you. Yes there are some without degrees that achieve a reasonable amount of success. Success being a releative term which you need to consider when these individuals question your desire to earn a degree. Those without degrees that are successful generally excel in a single discipline. When someone says to you why do you need a degree, ask them if they have one and the answer will most likely be no! Earning a degree gives you more options. If you know that you want to be a technician (as an example) for the remainder of your working years, then dismiss the idea of a degree. If you have higher goals and ambitions, get the formalized education and keep going if you have the opportunity to do so. The IT industry in particular, because of the rapid pace of advances in technology requires continued learning. Those that don't get moved aside as be obsolete.

by comcastcabletech

While a degree may be a good thing,it is no guarantee for success.If you just look around you,most millionairs and billionairs,do not have college degrees!!!The real college is the real world out there.Bill Gates dropped out of college and now he is the riches man in the world.My advice is to joint a book clud and teach yourself.In fact,that's what you do at college anyway because college professors don't do sh..except giving assignments.

by m_moore

I disagree - if you've already gotten a lot of the basics out of the way, it would be worth it to finish. As much as people without a degree like to say that college graduates are a dime a dozen or "2 a penny", the truth is that only about 1 in 4 adults has a bachelor's degree, and closer to 1 in 15 has a masters. Compare that to 85% with high school diplomas, and you can see that what's really a dime a dozen. If nothing else, a college degree can be a tie-breaker when you're competing for a job with someone who is otherwise equally qualified.

by deborah

Yes - get the degree. Even if it is an associate degree, it will give you the credibility to deal with the rest of the organization where you work. You will never get the opportunity to succeed in today's business environment unless you have the credentials to be confident and strong in the face of those who are your peers. I know - I have experience.

by Mark W. Kaelin

EMJ,

I have to agree with much of the advice you have received so far ? a degree is almost always beneficial to a career. But choose a course you are interested in.

I did some searching around the TechRepublic archives and came up with some other articles and discussions that may interest you. Best of luck and come back and let us know how it's going. Perhaps the TechRepublic community can help you in the future.

Six degrees of separation: A smarter plan for career networking
https://www.techrepublic.com.com/5100-6316_11-5077847.html

Salary survey reveals top-level IT salaries may rise some in 2004
https://www.techrepublic.com.com/5100-6299_11-5151903.html

Business forces spurring IT career changes
https://www.techrepublic.com.com/5100-6331_11-5091971.html

Confused Graduate
https://www.techrepublic.com.com/5208-6230-0.html?forumID=6&threadID=154453&messageID=1618815

School Student need advice
https://www.techrepublic.com.com/5208-6230-0.html?forumID=6&threadID=154590&start=0&tag=search

by sledjockey

I am sitting here and after reading all these posts, I still feel the original question in the post was just barely touched:

Personally, I have my BS in CIS, have 9 plus years of military experience, and haven't been able to find a job in almost a year that is in the IT field. Everyone tells me that the degree is nice, but I need the certs to be able to be hired. Of course I am working on my MCSE, CCNA, etc now, but interestingly enough my degree and experience was all that was required for several job offers in other states. After having fought for this long to try and get something going locally, I have come to these conclusions:

1) Degree or not degree is specific to the area in which you live. Here in WA, over 33% of the population have a 4 year degree. Portland has around the 17-18% range. You must look at the area you live in.

2) See if certs are the thing for your area. If you read forums, blogs, industry e-zines and the sort, you will get an idea for the area in which you live. Also try the professional/trade associations in your area. They are great resources.

3) Call a IT temp company and flat ask them what you need to be competative. If they say, Engineering, MCSE, CCIE, CISSP, blah, blah, blah, you know they are full of it. Use common sense and call different ones with different scenerios. Just use a blocked ID phone number and give your neighbor's name.....

4) Don't take anything but your experiences to heart as gospel. Anything you learn here is going to be relative to the place that these people posting live.

5) Good luck. It is tough out here lately. Personally, I am getting ready to move to a different area and put myself right in the way of the IT industry's growth so someone has to give me a good job.

All I can say is thank God that my degree is in computers rather than spelling. Too bad there isn't a spell check here.... Hmmmmmmmm.

by mdauston

I'm retired military and spent the last 4 years in IT/Project Mgt. My degree is in aeronautics but I wanted to continue in the IT field. Too make myself more appealing to employers, I went and got several certs (MCSE,CCNA,Oracle,Solaris). It took a while to land a job, but I think that the certs were a big factor. So it usually doesn't matter what degree you have, just get one. Good Luck

by emzumara

I guess if you are not working at the moment, you got nothing to loose going to the University. As some of the people have pointed out already, doing the certification would be a better idea for the time being.

I personally made a mistake. I had a Novell CNE, Microsoft MCSE and A+, had a good job in a big International company, then I decided to resign to do a University degree full-time, which I did and finish recently. Getting back to work is proving to be hard. My 12 years IT experience is being considered not current and the university degree is not carrying any weight either. So I am now doing Cisco courses and preparing to do CNE 6.5, which I left to elapsed while I was busy at the university.

Good luck, EM.

by yerodinp

Keep at it.

Hello EMJ,

I recognise that what I am about to say is heavily biased in favour of my own experience.

After starting out as a tech, I am now an electronics engineering student, and have met a few of the obstacles that can stop folks from finishing a degree, but continue to press on towards the end.

I congratulate you for doing the same.

If you do opt for distance education, my experience suggests that institutions that are certified by the D.E.T.C., and that also provide textbooks are an excellent choice.

http://www.detc.org/degree.html

Go for those institutions that have more than 6 years of certification.
(i.e. Certified in **** next Reveiew ****)

What I have found to be most useful, is recognising that degrees work best when the owner has a method of regularly revising the info that is taught.... that's probably why you should consider choosing a course whose foundation material doesn't change that much. (e.g. math, reasoning, logic etc..)

Having developed and applied such an approach, there are links that are now easily formed in my head between information I have learned v.s. information I am learning.

And if I forget, revision is easy.

The IT field benefits from the personal organizational method, discipline & structured approach required to finish a degree, while the 3 or 4 month certifications will provide updated knowledge.

That's my 2 cents worth, I hope you can make some use of it.

Kindest Regards,
Yerodin.

by pingme11

I was able to earn an AS degree in Networking Services Technology and my MCSE and MCDBA at the same time. I was able to find a network admin position rather quickly after graduating. I believe that having both the certs and the degree made a difference.

by pingme11

I was able to earn an AS degree in Networking Services Technology and my MCSE and MCDBA at the same time. I was able to find a network admin position rather quickly after graduating. I believe that having both the certs and the degree made a difference.

by peter parker

These degrees offer you understanding of the hardware, OS, programming languages, applications, databases, and the full software/systems development lifecycle. It also offers you the chance to work in any industry, even healthcare. I was in my late 30's when I went back for my B.S. in CIS and do not regret it. Hope this helps!

by smanches

I waited until I was 36 to go back to school after working in a factory for 13 years and getting injured on the job. I also went for the CIS AAS degree at the local community college. Once finished with that, I went on to get my BS in Computer Information Systems, if you can't find a local college that offers the degree, take on-line classes many colleges throughout the nation offer degree's that way. While I did learn about the different aspects of computers, the curriculum for Central NY was very heavy in the programming aspect of computers and light in the hardware. The company (a non for profit health related)I am currently working for was only interested in the fact that I "stuck it out" to obtain the degree and not what I learned. I was one of the lucky one's, I found a job, but I know some people who were in all the same classes as me that still are looking for work in the computer industry. So my advice is to go with what you want to do and don't worry about the certs (they aren't really as big here (the paper is!), but I am doing a couple to make myself more marketable, since we are looking to move out of state in the next few years.) Every area is different when it comes to them anyways..

by oddjob

Good to see that you want to further your knowledge, but you need to look at what a degree course offers you in comparison to Certification.

Firstly, anything you learn on a degree will often not be as up to date as that of a Certification course, by nature of the tutors needing to obtain and absorb the knowledge and then plan how to fit it in to the course, and the course is usually planned at least a year before being set. Whereas a Cert. course is usually kept prety much up to date with the latest developments. Then the degree course will cover some or all the aspects you want, but usually not to the depth that a Cert. course would go.

What you need to do is ask yourself why you want the degree, - is it personal, or is it to get a foot in the door. As has been said in previous posts, any degree will get you in the door, but Certification proves you know what you're talking about. If it's personal, then you shouldn't be looking at it as a tool for your career.

I.T. is a big arena so you've got to decide what specific areas you want to support and aim at that - and stick to it. You can't know and support everything, so your future customers need to know where they stand, and you'll gain more credibility for honesty than trying to bluff your way through something you don't understand.

Best of luck for whichever road you choose to follow.

Oddjob.

by mphillips

I think you are to be commended for the desire to finish your education. I returned to higher education 20 years after my high school graduation! I had never seen a computer but decided that's what I wanted to do next.
I agree with most of the posts to date and would like to add a little advise from an IT manager point of view.
A degree doesn't show me you are any smarter, it shows me you have learned how to learn.
As an adult, returning to school shows you don't give up, even tho' you have already attended 3 schools.
Certs don't show me you know what to do, they show me you can pass a test!
It sounds like completing this personal goal is as important as completing the professional one.
A degree with experience (that you already have) is the way to go.

by greenchief

I followed much the same path. I recently retired from the Navy, was a Hospital Corpsman (sort of doctor's assistant). I got my BS in Health Care Administration, and then a few years later, a MS in Information Systems. The IS degree is more managerial, and I really enjoyed it. I am now working with a government contractor, but would also like to work in the Health Care/IT field.

The group I am currently with has a lot of computer engineers. While this job is interesting, I wouldn't want to do it for the rest of my life.

I would, however, recommend the IS route or a telecommunications route. So many hospitals are looking at HIPPA compliance and information security, the IS or telecommunications would line you up for the future.

Just a thought.

Jim

by mlayton

...and you want a job which pays for your school, the real question right now is what you need to get that job. I recommend you look at SANS HIPAA Regulations courses or something similar. If you are going into the healthcare and want something to get your foot in, a certification that shows you understand this is critical right now. Then you can decide which degree to pursue, and from what you have said, the IT degree (or some schools call it an IS degree) is probably the way you want to go. By the same token, look at what you already have credits in and can any of them transfer? Then you may want to look into a more rounded degree - communications, with a specialty or minor in IT - it is less important what the degree is - what is important is that you have it. Good luck.

by michael.brodock

The medical IT community is under the average for salary as a general rule. Also, they do not put much stock in degrees or certifications, but more on experience, at least that is my experience so far after 15 years of being in the field.
To help you, I am 41 and in my last year for my CIS degree. I have CCNA, CNE and MCSE certifications as well, which by the way you will need at least one of those for most places. Personally, I like Novell but you can't have everything. If you have more questions, you can email me. Bottom line: get your degree, get at least one certification, two is better and you will be marketable since you already have experience.
Mike

by theo702000

Having just completed a BA in CS this past spring I might be able to give you some advice. There is a big difference between CS and IT in that with CS you will need to hone your math skills as well as your knowledge of applications and languages, whereas with IT your knowledge of a particular application or language will get you through. There were a number of people in my program who knew an appplication or language (e.g. C++) but who did not make it because they did not have the math skills, nor were they willing to put in the time. That said, once you gain an appreciation for the math, a CS degree is very enriching and definitely allows you to understand what is going on "behind the scenes" of whatever application or more generally IT issue you might be working on. Of interest to you might be the fact that the people who came in with an IT background and who completed the program for the most part have jobs.

by wrhinehart

I agree with Theo.
The CS degree is math intensive and quite a bit different than an IT degree. Interestingly, my certifications seem to be more of an interest to employers than my BSCS. I think you should make some serious consideration as to what you want to accomplish, what you want to do and where you want to work. Then I would look at the school and what classes it offers. I would look at what credits I already have and go from there.

Good luck and hammer the books!

Bill

by hybrit

I enrolled in the BSc - Computer Information Systems degree at Excelsior College 2 years ago and transferred in a lot of courses that I had done from 2 years of Aerospace Engineering over 7 years ago. That took care of most of the lower level electives and core sciences requirements like math and physics (you might be able to do the same with some of your repvious college work).

Then I transferred in for college credit, a bunch of my Microsoft and Cisco exams which gave me the equivalent of 5 more courses!

The best part is even yet to come: I have been taking courses on-line from various universities in Canada and the USA (I've been living in both countries) to fulfill my remaining course requirements!

I have been working on the degree part time, on my own time, while working full time and am now 2 courses away from completion. I have yet to have any employer care or even ask about where the degree is from, just that I have it (or will have it shortly).

I would suggest a two-pronged approach since the IT world expects us to have post secondary education AND certifications: go through a more progressive university/college that will give you credit for IT certifications - and there are many.

That way, while studying for certs over the next few years, you'll also be getting college credit - often enough to shave 1 whole semester off your degree! Not only that, those equivalent course credits you get (i.e. let's say 5 courses) are a whole lot cheaper to get ($100 for books, $120 for each exam x 8 exams or so) than paying for books and tuition for 5 full university/college courses (5 x $500 or more)!

I think it's all about studying smart these days and maximizing your time, not hard.

Why not blow your brains out for a few years and come out with a degree AND one or two industry certifications!

Anyway, best of luck and go for it. The degree really is worth it!

Regards.

P.S. Don't let those who put down "on-line" or alternative degrees programs/schools deter you. They don't realize the work involved in doing it more on your own, and no one really cares anymore where your degree is from. Anyone who does is only demonstrating their lack of imagination and understanding!

by comptech3

I commute about 50 miles to work, so the online route is definitely convenient for me. If anything, the online route takes more self-discipline to achieve. I'm studying the same material that the traditional students take and hold a 3.83 average. Anyone who laughs at online college courses is misinformed.

by norcelid

dear hybrit,
I do appreciate your posting, gave us inspiration on the path.
any idea for someone like me , educational background BS in Accounting, been working as accountant /finance controller using various accounting system, with average technical understanding on how it works.
did Cobol programming in 1986 but no chance to practice, self study ASP, Java2, manage local Wireless ISP. all of them were done partime while i am working as accountant.

My question is there any certification/degree related to such background and experiences??

Online study will be preferred.

Thanks alot for sharing your idea.

regards

by skipperusn

Most accountants I know that switched to IT and management - go crazy when they get into management of IT Geek's ;-), we are a freelance bunch of people - that don't accept the micromanagement style of accountants.

I would say - become geekie with Java and some the other newer languages. Yes COBOL will never die - they figure over 14 Billion lines of COBOL code in the US. But why switch back to older technology - go for the new stuff - C++, JAVA, JScript, XML, DHTML ... get geekie with it. You have been out of the mix - and why not start with the new stuff -

Once you shed that accounting life style then you can move forward into IT Management. Expect some of the old accountant comments and jokes to be pointed at you when you switch. Kind of like the old Auditor comments - "Auditors are those that come in and Bannett the wounded after the Battle."

by pc_technician

If you are looking for a BS in Information Systems, you can't go wrong at ACCIS. They are a college totally on-line. their url is:
www.accis.edu.
They also offer an MS in the same field along with Computer Science, MIS, and Business Administration.

I am a current student their and my experience has been great.

Jeffrey Eckstein
Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

by dohenderson

The fact that you have an interest in the hospitals, I recommend a degree in Informatics or Biomedical engr.

Hope this helps.

Doreen.

by m_moore

One thing I didn't really think about until I got into an Information Systems degree program is that it is a BUSINESS degree. Instead of learning 4 levels of calculus, you learn things that you can apply to the business world - finance, economics, management, accounting, and ethics, for example. I received a BBA in Info Systems 2 years ago after 7 years of night school. I have been in the Desktop Support world for 7 years, and am currently working on an MBA. My feeling is that at some point, I'm going to be competing with someone for a job. I would like to be equally qualified with someone who has a degree, or better yet, be more qualified by having one. I recommend finishing college. Good luck!

by routerqueen

Go for the degree in IT/IS, while you are there make good connections with faculty. Often there are internships available (low pay) that will keep you in the game and can lead to employment later or at least references and credits to add to your resume. Get a certification, Cisco is wonderful to have. Sign up with agencies, many employers only list with agencies, ask around locally to find out which agencies might handle the hospitals. Beware: some hospitals consider IT Dept. low in the ranks compared to medical staff.

by icompute

I graduated in June with an AS in CIS and a cert in computer apps.I am now going for my BA in Bus with a focus on Info Tech. I agree with most of the posts, just get your degree! I'll be 49 next month and reentering the workforce in about a year and don't want to go out there against 20 year olds without that paper in hand. It does show tenacity and well roundedness. I have found that on line classes work best for me. Good luck to you and thanks for sharing...I thought I was the only one who felt like you. Let's hope the jobs are out there when we finish!

by josh

EMJ,

Have you considered a degree program offered by an online college? I am currently enrolled in a BS program in Information Sysytems while working full time as the IT Manager for my company.
I had a difficult time with a "real" college schedule working along with full time work and taking care of things around the house. Maybe distance learning might work out for you...

by anne.powel

In one of your earlier posts, you did mention that you weren't all that good on the drive and ambition end. The only caution with some of the (absolutely great) online courses and degrees is that it is somthing you have to SCHEDULE and stick to without fail--or you will (fail, that is)
Good luck, study the things in which you are truly interested, and see if you can find a more flexible college where those things can be worked into a degree program, along with some of your experience.

by dancc

EMJ, As someone who turned 40 in less than a month who attended 7 universities in 3 countries and just finished a first degree, don't worry about the past. The important thing is to look at the future.

The first six Universities I attended were continuing on a formal Bach. of Computer Science program. (mostly switched schools due to job transfers to new states, etc.) They bored me to death though I've worked as a computer guru for 23 years. They reason was they never provided new information nor challenged me. It was stuff I knew or could teach myself over a weekend.

You started with a statement that you "put the computer support business on hold as I don't feel confident enough to start it up as yet."

Then I switched to a business degree program and finally found things useful to help my computer consulting. Since I never studied business, the material was fresh, interesting, and (amazingly to me) immediately useful. It showed me better ways to communicate with business managers. I'll stay a computer-tech but now I have the tools to talk a language management understands. For instance, as the major homework assignment / project for a course on Quality Management and Productivity, I analyzed work flow processes, identified, and documented changes that would impact this organization to the tune of $1.5M the first year.

I concur with the folks that suggested looking at Online Programs. They give you the flexibility to travel for pleasure and business without missing classes; to move around the country as jobs changes; and network with individuals around the world.

I may be biased, but I have thoroughly enjoyed the intense five week programs at the University of Phoenix (www.phoenix.edu).

Good luck,
DanCC

PS> Though it was a tax on my family and work, the material excited me so much that I doubled up on courseload and finished the Bachelors degree in 14 months.

by rama.brooks

Look at the community colleges and see which ones offer an Associates degree in Computer Science that includes certifications. The community college I am taking night classes gave me 6 credits for my A+ cert and 3 credits for the Net+ cert. Once completed this degree will give me both an AAS degree and a MCSA certification.

COmmunity colleges have partnerships with local universities that will accept the majority of your course work. Also Excelsior college will except pretty much any college course work as credit towards their BS in IT degree.

Take a couple of 3 credit classes at a community college (no more than 2) to break back into the college routine. Also if the local community college does not offer a Computer Science degree to your liking, then go for general ed since that should allow you to start as a junior at most 4 year univeristies.

Communty colleges are cheaper per credit hour to take.

by maverick73

EMJ -

A CS degree is going to be a focus on application development & coding. C, C++, Java, etc... This was the path I chose 10 years ago.

If you want to be an individual that is performing technical support, I wouldn't choose the CS path, but the IS/MIS path. I worked my way up the support food chain to I.T Mgr & found my CS degree a waste in certain aspects.

Yes, I couldn't get my job without a CS/IS degree, but at the same time, I haven't coded one app since leaving college because I took the support/network admin route & not the developer route.

If your end goal is for technical support, go the IS/MIS route.

Good luck.

by joeaxe1

There are so many degrees- backgrounds and trasining available it is hard to choose. It always helps to have a solid background, good work ethic and proven track record. Some places dont value certifications as much as others but look at degree program descriptions, evaluate what you wish to know and what you wish to be competent in or do/be responsible for. I changed degree plans so many times i decided to go for an Engineering management degree which accepted many of my elctronic, military, computer and management credits. Look at this description at this one (of many universities).
This degree program prepares students to manage software and engineering systems development, maintenance, and operations. It includes the study of business management, economics, and business-management related courses, as well as providing a foundation in computer systems and software. Students learn theory and techniques that allow them to evaluate hardware and software solutions and to make recommendations concerning systems and technology. Graduates are qualified to work in a variety of industries in project management, business development and marketing, and general engineering management career paths.

found here:
http://www.grantham.edu/engineering_management.htm

by tim

I was in a similar boat to you a few years ago, too many years of helpdesk, user, network support, some application and web design, routers, you name it. A regular jack of all trades.

With the recent slew of outsaucing, and corporate america hacking and slashing everywhere, it seemed logical to want to either be on the top of the pile above that hacking, or get out of I.T. completely.

As I'm a geek at heart, I couldn't leave. I started looking around, and found an MBA program at Royal Roads University that was a nice balance of online learning, and classroom based studies. On top of that, they have a "Digital Technologies Management" specialization which essentially surrounds leading geeks. I'm about 6 months in, and besides the huge amount of accounting and marketing, I'm loving it!

Maybe shift your focus... just a thought...

Regards,

by jb_goins

I'm in somewhat of the same boat. My certs are old and I'm running into "you're too experienced" for a desktop support (15 years experience) but don't have a degree. I was thinking of taking an accelerated course from a college like University of Phoenix but I am unsure of their credibility. I'm also worried that it might look like I'm lazy that I chose an excellerated course instead of doing the traditional college route. Any thoughts?

by dancc

Examining the credibility of a school is important. There are a lot of new "fast" program schools out there which offer various levels of learning. UoP has been accredited since 1978.

Then there is the subject of knowledge acquisition which is a valid concern, too. Here is my quick response to that issue.

If you are looking at IT jobs (sans Sr. programmer) you will be fine at corporate universities such as UoP, DeVry, Capella, and others.

If you are looking at Sr. Programmer career path, I'd stick with a standard university.

--DanCC
personally biased towards UoP as I graduated
in May 2004 with a Bach. in Business/Management

by anniemae46

After extensive research, University of Phoenix was my first choice and I have stuck with the ONLINE program (BSIT) since mid 2001. As previously mentioned, they are a fully accredited institution. Furthermore, they have a solid, diverse curriculum, small classes and very qualified teachers and instructors. You might NOT want to enter a program if you are not sure what you want to do, though if you have made up your mind, but have family, a job, etc. to juggle, UOP is a great solution. I put a lot of work and effort into it (average 30 hours per week, mostly late night and weekends). Besides, their learning style will have a positive impact on many aspects in your life; you communicate on an academic level. Another (slight) advantage is that you may be eligible for government student loans with deferred interest. Many people I know invested thousands of own $$$ at higher risk into private fly-by-night institutes. (In my case, UOP is not a fast-degree thing though.)
So, unless you find yourself in a bigger company that sponsors certifications, a degree with diversity is my advice.

by anniemae46

Are you looking into their online programs or on campus?

Do background checks, interview them, go to their web site and check out the details of the programs they offer. Ask them a lot of questions. Also, FastCompany magazine ran an interesting article last year about UOP founder, John Sperling. (www.fastcompany.com)

Adult education programs have become necessary -- changes happen at a faster pace and we all need to keep up. Most people can't afford to put their entire life on hold at 30+ and go back to a traditional college. It is a misconception that online programs require less work or effort -- quite the opposite if you want to achieve excellence. That is at least my experience. In fact, you have to "check in" pretty much every day and participate actively in online class discussions, as well as delivering assignments, papers etc. (forget cheating)
IMHO, anyone who will look at you as "lazy" for pursuing your education doesn't know what they're talking about. You'll show them...

by jb_goins

I've done some research and like the UofP curriculum. I will look into it further.

by vltiii

The University of Phoenix is accredited for whatever it's worth. However, as a current student (I'm working on my Masters in Information Systems Management) I would not recommend UoP unless you don't have any other options. I don't really think of the school as being accelerated, but for the most part I feel like I'm teaching myself. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about going somewhere else. Unfortunately as a working adult I dont' have a lot of options. If you have options I would say pursue those first. If you have to go to UoP, I think in the long run just having the degree does really count for something.

by hdeanna

I would sugggest the MIS degree (Management Information Systems)This degree covers database admin work, programming, technical issues, and enough buisness that one is familiar with the issues that a buisness faces. Especially with a background in Tech issues and customer support it would build on what you already know and add to it. The MIS person can work as the interface between pure Tech and the management side since she can "speak both languages".

by blarman

I had nearly the same situation. I didn't want to spend my time programming and wanted to concentrate more about the business/communications side of support. Boise State University offers three degree programs which were relevant - Computer Information Systems, Operations Management, and Networking & Telecommunications. The CIS and Netcomm degrees were almost identical - focusing on general business with a specialty in information systems; databases for CIS and networking for Netcomm.

These programs met my needs - allowing me to get a useful degree while allowing me to focus on the aspect I liked more - helping satisfy customers.

BTW - I'm currently working on an MBA.

by emj

the Techrepublic community has rallied around and made excellent comments and suggestions. Just to let everyone know, I have opted to get my degree online via Charter Oak State College (which happens to be located in my state of CT). Online is a relative term here as some of the classes will be attended in a classroom environment. I have applied, transferred my credits, and am now starting the process of CLEP'ing some classes, and taking others at the local community college. I have two General Studies classes to complete first, then I will start working on finishing my Liberal Arts requirements. I probably won't matriculate and get to my concentration for a year or so, but at least I'll be well on my way. Thank you all for your postings, and to those of you in the same boat as myself, I'm hoping you were inspired to finish what you've begun too. Have a wonderful day!

EMJ

by eric

Pick something that is as unspecialized as possible. MBA might look good now, but who's to say that MBAs don't become a dime-a-dozen in 5-10 years, or that all that sort of work gets outsourced to Mumbai, India. I've heard that legal and financial work is being offshored there. These people are thrilled at making $5,000 a year. There's no way on earth you can compete.

If I had to do it all over again... PLUMBING.

Can you say "Blue Collar"?

When the water tank starts to leak on Sunday morning, you will pay whetever the plumber demands at the time. Been there, done that.

Besides, it's rather costly and time consuming to ship the water tank to Mumbai for repairs.

by sln

I have gone through a similar situation and found that going after my E-Business degree has proven to be beneficial. This is especially true because companies now aren't looking for techs who can only be techs, and managers that can only manage, but people who can do both.

I'm currently enrolled in University of Phoenix's online program and the classes are accelerated. It has helped keep me motivated to continue becuase I'm consistently making progress.

Companies may not necessarily care what degree you have when you interview, but E-Business will give you a solid tech and business foundation to grow on. That in and of itself is worth considering. If you can't USE the degree you have, why bother getting it.

Also, it's not a matter of degree OR cert..... I recommend you go after both.

Good luck to you.

by campacj

Dear EMJ,

I don't have any advice about your degree, but you might find help from the following people:

http://www.amia.org/

I learned about this association from a research project manager at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.

Clint (campacj@aol.com)

by jjlov

OK, though the only degree that seems to be worth anything these days is an MBA. I would recommend pursuing this with an IT concentration. Experience, skill sets, certifications appear to be irrelevant in the current job market. What does appear to be important are:

Networking ability.
Communication skills.
Resume Buzz words.

The first is the only way to get a job. The second, the only way to keep it. And the third, is the only way to get past HR resume filtering.

So first recommendation: Get an MBA or as a second best choice, an Masters in IT. While you are doing that, start socializing with administrators who work at instititutions that you might want to work with (they will usually know if an opening is coming up and may be helpful in getting you past HR). Lastly, if necessary, take a different job in your institution of choice to get past HR altogether for the job you want - when it opens up.

Best Wishes!

John L.

by msprn3

Montana Tech of the University of Montana has a Health Care Informatics program that is staged for AAS and BS with planning underway for the creation of a national healthcare informatics center here in Butte, MT. I am a recent nonconventional (age 55+) graduate of the Information Technology and Design B.S. program here at Montana Tech. I went back to school when I retired from nursing (RN) after 20 years of practice in rural hospitals. There is a great need for both well rounded network engineers and communication-research specialists that understand both technology and health care needs. As the demand grows, the shortage will drive pay up, especially with the HIPAA Security Rule going into effect next April. A few survey deficiencies will drive home the need for specialists.

by andy.kim

I completed a Business Information Systems degree, with an optional year fully paid industry based learning. Having a piece of paper and no experience will make it hard to get a job you like. I found my degree gave a wide scope of IT in Business.

by jnelson4309

I took 10 years, including a hitch in the Navy in electronics, to get my degree. I have found that, while I learned a lot in getting the degree, the sheepskin is analogous to a membership card or token: it will get you in the door, but at your age, your wealth of accomplishments will carry you from there.
My degree is in Systems Analysis, and one of my profs told us techie-types thus: "Within ten years, most of you will go back for advanced degrees in the soft sciences." He was correct - I went back for an MBA after 9 years.
I have found that the most fulfilled and successful people in IT are the communicators who can bridge the two worlds of the techie-IT and the techie-other field... Yes, there are techie (somewhat less well-rounded) people in all fields, and helping them communicate with each other will take you a LONG way in this high-speed business world.

by hybrit

If you really want to see where the dollars are being earned these days, it's not within a technical only capacity. Those with both key skills, as you mention, should do a search on "solutions sales" on the jobs boards and see what turns up! The days of what I like to call, "the old-school PC-box-pushing Salesman" are gone. To sell solutions these days you have to be an excellent cross-functional communicator and you will get paid well for it!

by sheiba

I have the MCSE,Sys admin,Network admin and I am currently studying a Bachelors degree in Information Technology with a major in Network Security.
You must choose the correct Institution and choose the subjects available in the final year and their prerequists. This will allow you to model your study path. A degree adds the final touch and if you have prior work experience you will find that you can operate as a contractual advisor. Hope this is of help.
John

by paynerpaynet

I would tell to do your research about the field of study as possible. By doing this,you will have a better understanding of what to exspect when you make that decsion.

by garion11

I am the same boat as you. I am waiting for approval from an online college I recently applied to. Its going to take about 2 years for me to finish my BS and the classes are going to be intense. Here is a link to some EXCELLENT information I found about Online colleges. Go visit the student forums/discussion boards. There is a wealth of information you can get about online colleges. Good luck in whatever you decide to do.

http://www.degreeinfo.com/index.html

http://forums.degreeinfo.com/

by crimsoncub

I work for Cerner Corporation which makes software applications for the healthcare industry. There are many types of roles within the corporation from consulting to tech support. Basically, you need a Bachelor's degree to help get your foot in the door. A background in technology is definitely helpful. This may be more to your liking than working directly for a hosptial.

If you're looking for a Bachelor's degree, then I would take a look at a Business degree with an emphasis in MIS or Health Information Management. This would put you in the right place for your interests.

If you're looking for a Master's degree, it is wise to choose your basic MBA unless you have a career with a concentrated focus in mind.

Many times you'll find that its not the area that your degree is in that gets you the job, but the fact that you hold a degree.

Hope this helps.

by justmakingit

The best advice is to take a good look at what you are interested in and follow along from there. I have been in the industry for a number of years and have decide to do my MEd in IT because I like teaching. It is going to take a couple of years to complete but in the long run I will hopefully be doing something that I have come to enjoy.

by marimar60

I just want you to know that it's not to late to go back to school and get a degree, and the money is there; Pell grants,state need grants,low interest loans. But one thing I want you to know is- attend a school that specializes in IT and this is why; I went to a community college and got very little if any hands-on experience. It was all about reading the books and taking test. The school had what they needed for hands on, but they didn't have the time, 50 minutes per class isn't even enough time to install an OS. In a way I really feel cheated. I graduated this June and recieved an AA in IT. I need to take one more class if I want to get my Hardware Support AA. The town I live in is very hard to find a job. I too wanted to open my own business. All I have to say to you is, be very sure that IT is what you want to do. I love working with computers but I don't know if thats what I want to do every day. What made me go back to school was, I worked in a convenience store for 4 years, no breaks and you take a lot of crap for very little money.
Good Luck to you, what ever you choose to do.

by sleepin'dawg

You finish things whereas others only dream and play at them. Read the original postings again. Don't you find them a little too breezy? A little too indecisive? Maybe I'm wrong but I doubt it. I think we've all been had.

by senior program analyst

You maybe correct that they dont ask for proof during the hiring process. But, If anyone ever realized you were not truthfull about it and depending on the person, It could put you in a very tight position. They can outright fire you if they ever believe you lied on the application or you could have someone hold the truth over you to get something they want). In any case I would not suggest putting a lie on your resume or any place of record (including the interview). It can come back to bite you unexpected.

by skipperusn

That would put your tit ring in a ringer.. Lets say you do lie - and get the job. No one checks, years go by - you never go back to school. You are up for a big promotion - and they want you to have an MBA - OOps don't even have a BS or BA..

Now what do you do...

OOps - sorry your Fired - :-(

Better to be honest - then risk paying the price 5 or 10 years down the road... Don't say you would go back to school - you already said work and school didn't work for you ...

by sleepin'dawg

I just left a post there which might bolster your
confidence regarding setting up your own business.
I don't mean to be unkind but at 39 can you truly afford to throw away the time chasing a degree you
may not finish? Assuming you left high school @18
and have been to 3 universities with nothing tangible to show for it, I have to ask why this time should be any different??? Hmmmm??? Be honest with yourself. Do you truly believe that, on the down slope towards 40 you will ever finish?
It's a nice dream but you would be better off, moving off your butt and putting the skills you have to work and start making some money and paying your own way. What state has only one school offering courses in tech and no degree program? Sounds like a good place to be from and the further your from it the better. Is this one of those states where you can get divorced 3 times
and still have all the same in-laws???
In all honesty I think you have been dreaming in Technicolor and if you didn't have hubby to carry your load you'd probably be up the proverbial creek without your paddle; hell you'd probably lose the canoe too!!!!!!!

by stress junkie

If you want to work in the Unites States then I recommend Farenheit. However, anywhere else in the world uses Celcius.

by sleepin'dawg

There are geeks and then there are great geeks and most of those don't fit the stereotype of pocket protectors and glasses held together with tape. Maybe 25 years ago but definitely not now. Music is the analogy that comes to mind more specifically classical music, like Bach and Beethoven. Most great composers orchestrated their own compositions but many didn't, like Chopin, who often left the orchestrations of his works to people like Liszt. A more modern analogy might be found in film; the director, the cinematographer and the film editor but I prefer using music. Imagine as it were a bell curve. At the beginning is found the ordinary tech or geek, of varying degrees of competency. As the curve rises so does competence of the geek and at the top you find those who can solve the vast majority of technical problems. The trick here is to get the geek to acknowledge that there is a problem and then conveying the results hoped for. As you swing over the top the ability to comprehend problems increases although a few may lose some technical dexterity due to acquiring more management functions and thus losing tech functions. On the far side of the curve you come into the rarified area of the Wozniaks,Gates, Dells,Lucases and Spielbergs guy's who have developed answers before anyone has asked the question. At this end of the curve you are more than technically competent. Your geek quotient is off the charts. You don't just eat and breath geek, youfeel and speak geak. You become like a Shakespeare of geek or a Bach who composed with mathematical precision in geek. People on this end of the curve think in binary. Oh yeah; another name for it is, genius!!! They can't be classified or quantified but you'll know it when you meet one. Unless you were doing things like creating computer languages when you were ten you're aspirations of operating on this level are doomed to be thwarted.
Geeks, in their various flavors of competency can be hired. So can managers. Where it gets hard is finding the geek who can manage or the manager who can be a geek. It's like a dog walking on its hind legs. The marvel isn't in how well he does it but that he can do it at all.

by dinotech

I can understand the question "Why did you not complete your degree?" In todays employment market, employers want accomplished people working for them. It demonstrates a person's attitude toward completing a task - small or large. So by not completing at least one degree puts your candidacy in the red compared to others.

Get your first degree you were working on, then go to the next goal which might be certifications. Certifications stand well with employers; it shows you have some hands-on experience which is required to complete the certifications successfully. The age of the paper certification is slowly diminishing and those who don't put in the work will be exposed as a fraud.

And don't be intimidated by the responses here regarding your inability to complete your degree: life happens and sometimes its impossible to concentrate on school. So pick yourself up and go complete something! ;-)

by sleepin'dawg

Go to Computer Support Business? and you'll see she's been all over the place with this. Trying to advise people like this is an exercise in futility. Any connection she has to reality is tenuous at best. Her theme song is probably "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" but I should be careful or we'll have Oz_Media all over us. What is it about life on the "left" coast? Just kidding as I have too many clients out there to risk annoying any of them.

by dinotech

There are too many posts to read to find if my comments may or may not help. I post because I have an opinion; if the opinion is useful, great. If it has already been said, then why should anyone respond to it? I realize that I might repeating what has already been said, but I was more concerned about what people are saying regarding her inability to complete a degree after three colleges and therefore offered my support and try to make her feel she isn't alone.

I don't appreciate your response to what I considered a supportive opinion; it was not intended to be a repeat of what was said, and I don't have time to read every single message before replying with my thoughts. Something was on my mind and I wanted to say it. While we may not agree on what is said, we should respect everyone's right to post. You cannot tell me there isn't several repeated posts regarding the same principles. Yet, you chose mine to respond to...why?

by emj

Well, I have registered for my first course, and will CLEP or DANTE the other liberal arts courses I need. Once I get to my concentration, I will use my work experience as much as possible, and also take classes in areas of interest to me (Database Management, Systems Design & Management, etc.). I'd like to get as well-rounded an education as I can, which will open my eyes to the possibilities out there for me. I also think I will have a job by the end of the week. Everything is falling into place, as I knew it would, once I figured out what I wanted to do and went for it.

For that one individual who thinks that my getting my degree at 39 is a waste, is obviously no where near my age, and has no idea that 40 is only the beginning, and the only place I can go is up, not down. You should go back and re-read my posting, as you misunderstood what I wrote about there only being one college here that offered a *specific* degree. There are plenty of excellent schools in my state, and I'm going to be attending one of them this Fall.

Thanks to everyone for their comments and support.

by sleepin'dawg

And I established my company less than 5 years ago. We now have 7 offices - 3 in Canada and 4 in the US and hopefully we'll have at least one more in the US and one each in Bitain and Hong Kong. At your original posting I thought you were slightly illinformed and disorganized and I would have offered advice but now I see you for the flower child that you most obviously are and I can only wonder what hot house you've been hiding out in. 40 is only the beginning? Get real. Each and every day of your life is a beginning. I reread your posting and can say unequivocally that you are without a doubt a master of ambiguous communication. So you want to get your eyes opened to the possibilities for you. In your case l'il darlin' this ol' boy figures it will be just in time to spot the door slammin' in your kisser.
I know you think this is unkind and brutal and perhaps a trifle embarassing since we're in a forum and somewhat in public but God help you when life catches up with you. You'll look back on this as a walk in the park. Good luck to you as you so obviously need it and please convey my sympathies to the poor schmo that will have to put up with you for the next few years as you go about getting your "eyes opened" and if that's the only plastic surgery you get it'll be a miracle. So far life has given you a free pass but it's now time to buy a ticket. Sitting around and dreaming of your possibilities at 40 isn't going to cut it. It's time as my dear old DI used to say to "get a wiggle on because you haven't got all day."

by dinotech

Your business sense must be better than your personality. First, your view of what is real is limited to your own vision and not the vision of others. One of your other posts stated someone was the exception...so there is only one exception in your view? That's a shallow approach and it really doesn't have a place in this thread. It seems you like to point out what is real based on what you think is real. EMJ will be successful if and only if EMJ wants to be successful. There are companies that will hire her either as a senior consultant and/or senior partner to further their business. As a matter of fact, I expect EMJ to be listed in the VARBusiness 500 solution providers.

So, take yourself, sleeping dog, and find somewhere else to poop. ;-)

by aldanatech

You should try the Capella University School of Technology:

http://www.capella.edu/reborn/html/schools/technology/index.aspx

They have several specializations in the field of Information Technology. Many of the credits from your other schools will probably transfer smoothly and you can also get credit from CLEP and DANTES exams. Everything is online so it doesn't matter where you take it from and it doesn't interfere with your schedule.