sakar
Can I get a Computer related jobs without out a degree?
Many of my friends have dropped out of a college, and started doing an IT project or temporary job. I was wondering will that help them in their long-term career. #engineer #computer #undergraduate #programmer
3 answers
Dr. Drew Lehman
Dr. Drew’s Answer
Yes, it is possible, but your would probably be restricted to low level jobs like help desk or computer technician. It is even possible to excel without a degree but you would need to have a combination of exceedingly exceptional skills and a good deal of luck to find the right position. Certifications can help go a long way towards your career.
However, the degree will give you the skills and experience that can put you ahead. You have the potential to go much further with the same amount of work by completing your degree. The degree not only shows you have a base level of knowledge, but also shows you are able to complete long term commitments.
I actually started in the field without a degree when it was much easier to get hired without the degree. But I went back and finished my degree (and later got my doctorate) because there was only so far I could go without the degree and only a few places that would even consider hiring me.
Philip Tolbert
Philip’s Answer
Making it in IT (or anything in life) without a degree is certainly possible. You might want to review the list of people listed at https://www.elitedaily.com/news/business/100-top-entrepreneurs-succeeded-college-degree. About a half dozen are IT folks.
However, I would encourage friends to finish the degree. Of course having the degree could open doors, but it is also a great opportunity to be a more well rounded person. Without a degree you will find plenty of lower level IT jobs, but they mostly would be focused on specific IT tasks (helpdesk, coding, break/fix, etc.). If you are 100% Computers you will have a harder time to see the bigger picture, see a need which needs to be filled, or think of ways to solve business problems.
Steve Lewis
Steve’s Answer
Yes you can get a job in the IT field without a degree. There are many successful business people that do not have a degree. However, the employer will want to see proven experience. If you start a business, then you will need to prove the same to any potential clients. Ideally, I would suggest that you go to college, work on a certification, and also look for side projects. This will give you the best chance for success!