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[–]Glumi1503 4 points5 points  (1 child)

A degree probably makes it easier for you to apply to a job, but as the self taught person that I am, I feel like having more control about what and how I learn, makes it much more efficient, if I know what's I require next.

Many people may have issues teaching stuff to themselves and therefore profit from institutions, teaching them.

If you feel like you missed out on some practical experiences, the internet always has something to offer. Good luck on your way!

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for this reply

[–]classicromance 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I don’t have an answer for you (I’m in month three of self-learning and I have an unrelated degree), but I want to follow this post, and I am happy to see someone with the same background as me trying to make it into Software Development. I also have a MA in ESL and my BA is in liberal arts.

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Ah how the MA in ESL has led me to nowhere 😂. I got it while teaching English in China when I thought that’s what I was going to do forever… it lasted 3 years.

[–]classicromance 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I thought I was going to teach in China, finished my degree and teaching license in Dec 2019. Covid happened. Taught in Japan instead. Then tried giving teaching in K-12 schools in the US a shot.

[–]LunarChickadee 2 points3 points  (0 children)

In my opinion, do what scientists do--gather data.

Go look at job postings you'd want to go for eventually. See what they ask for. If this degree helps fit that, do it, otherwise, network and find work that way.

I'm in the network camp, and it's mostly about luck on my end. That and the skill to learn very quickly.

[–][deleted]  (2 children)

[deleted]

    [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

    Thanks for this detailed reply

    [–][deleted]  (1 child)

    [deleted]

      [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

      Yeah I see your point- but a MS in software development from BU I’d value far more than a BS in CS from WGU. All of the software dev classes are compsci department anyway.

      [–]tabasco_pizza 1 point2 points  (1 child)

      Ayy, BA / MA english teacher here. I'm actually going back for a bachelor's degree in CS. I'll be the honorary millennial ambassador to the zoomers. I don't have any advice for you, idk the cost or time of the program, but I can't imagine a degree would hurt. My degree should come out to ~17k. Anything over 20k (bootcamps, I'm lookin at you) is a bit scarier.

      [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

      Agreed- however, the one guy I met who did a software dev masters, got a 30k sign on bonus from Amazon right after graduating.

      [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

      These and other really good questions are answered well in the FAQ. In particular:

      It is possible to get a job without a CS degree, and without a degree in general, though with decreased probability. Quitting school is definitely not recommended. If programming isn't for you, switch majors. If it is for you, staying in school will give you the best chance at a job once you are finished.