Tony,

>I am definetely with you, a bachellors degree should be enough.

As you are aware, in the real world "should" doesn't mean much. What is, is.

>But with time I found out that even with a M.S. degree is not enough, some employers want to see these certifications. So now I am on track for a OCP. (Oracle Certified Professional.)

Certification *should* mean something also, but to many employers it does not. Nevertheless I think anyone with in-depth experience and a certification, especially the new-style MS ones, is better positioned for more of the opportunities that come along.