Thinking of Switching Careers to Tech in My Late 30s – Is a Degree Worth It?

If possible, consider a 2-year program instead of a 4. It'll give you the necessary education without the long wait. I think a formal education is essential; if you're not absolutely top-notch as a self-taught learner, interviews can be brutal.

If software engineering is where you want to be, pursue that degree! Starting with a junior software engineering position is tough if you aim for QA roles first. Transitioning from QA to software engineering can be challenging unless there's an internal opening. Stick to software engineering since that's your field of study.

Definitely go for the degree! I started tech in my 30s without one, and not having it always felt like a gap. You already have your degree covered, so take advantage of it while you work. Just be cautious of burnout; balance is key!

You sound a lot like me from a few years ago! I made a career shift in my early 30s after working as an electrician. Getting a degree was a significant factor for me; it helped me build a network and gain experience through school programs. While some may say it's just a piece of paper, the connections and growth I experienced made it worth it. Don't underestimate the value of having that degree, especially for job hunting. Good luck with your journey and congrats on your sobriety!

I think you're right to be cautious about the job market, especially since software engineering has high unemployment rates among new grads. An online degree could be a disadvantage if no one recognizes the program. You're looking at the job market in four years, which might be different, but targeting the highest skill roles is crucial. I'd skip QA and aim for more technical positions with better job security instead.