Interior Design Degree Online, Degree Vs Cert
Q: This has been such a hotly debated topic in this NG, I thought I'd post a
biased opinion from CertMag. They do have some good points, but I can only
say that the best option is to do both. Chris.
Computer Science Degree or Certification: Which Is More Valuable?
At one time, a computer science degree was a ticket to a successful career
in IT. However, those days are no longer. Fact is technology changes a lot
faster than it did 10 or 20 years ago. At one time, it was possible to
master most technologies, but these days you're lucky if you can master
just a few. Meanwhile, most universities are ill-equipped to prepare
adequately their students for an IT career. Most university and college
programs are high on theory and low on hands-on application of current
technologies. No doubt there are exceptions, especially at the graduate
school-level. There are many outstanding techno MBA programs out there.
Unfortunately, though, most undergraduate computer science programs fall
short and don't make the grade.
A:The article makes good points, but another consideration is what type of
work will the person being likely doing in the future? As far as I know,
computer science programs are mostly computer programming language
courses and mathematics courses, with maybe a database class or a few
electives thrown in for good measure. There's very little or nothing at
all on computer hardware. That's been the shortcoming of the Comp Sci
programs...now getting to certifications. Their shortcoming is also
their strength. They provide a very specific knowledge skill set for a
particular vendor or organization. I consider certifications more like
specializations, and degrees more of a general knowledge education,
that's a major distinction. Of course, a person can learn programming by
buying books and the relevant software (i.e. compilers that check for
errors), but in the end,they are both means to the same
result...hopefully a secure job with relatively good pay after a few
years in the trenches. I'm not knocking one or the other, just know what
you want to do in advance of making the decision, and then choose the
path that is best for you. Not everyone is cut out for college, so going
to college for the sake of going could be a mistake for some people.
Besides getting a four year degree in Computer Science doesn't
necessarily guarantee a person a job...neither does good grades. It may
help, but there are people out there with Master's Degrees who are
either unemployed or who are working at jobs not relevant to their
course of study.
This is one of the best articles I have seen about the subject of certs and
degrees. The basis of the article is that a degree alone is not enough,
but certs alone are not either. If I were to summerize the article is a
short sentence it would be.."If you are looking for a career in the IT
field, the more you can bring to the table (interview), the better your
chances will be."
As to statements that college is not needed, or even a waste, I disagree. A
BA in college science, gives you a great platform to build your skills upon.
Programming and logical thinking classes teaches you to work out problems in
a logical fashion, working carefully to the final result. English and
other liberal arts classes strengthen your writing and speaking skills
(which in the IT profession is vital). So college can offer alot. Then on
top of this foundation, you put certs, experience.
My suggestion to high school kids, and those starting college, is to go to
college for a year or so. Then start to look for intern type positions.
Work with your college to find these positions. Many companies will contact
colleges to get interns. Work as an intern while going to classes. Some
companies may offer tuition reimbursement. As you are working as an intern,
you are gaining experience. When you graduate, you will be very
marketable....even