> Regardless of if you have an advanced degree or not, do you feel there ?>is signifigant value in them (assuming of course the program is good)?

Hi Alan,

I'm still trying to figure out why I got a BS in Biology.

I suppose that depends on the definition of "value." Economically, it seems to me an advanced degree can often translate into a higher salaried job. As a consultant, I doubt it'll ever make a difference in what you can bill -- or at the very least a degree would be less valuable than spending time selling yourself, getting certified and 10 other "marketable" things you could spend time and money on.

As for learning, it doesn't appear to me that what one is taught in a Comp Sci program has that much relation to the development jobs we do (for 98% of us at least). There's a big gap between the theory and classroom and actually getting a job done. And that's true for just about any profession. Usually, a degree just proves -- maybe -- that you're smart enough and are willing to work at something. You learn the lingo, theories, background, history, etc. There's a reason eduation only takes up a few lines on a resume.

Of course, knowing the lingo, theories, background and history can be valuable at times. You can always look into the syllabi for the courses needed for the degree you want and review the textbooks. That'll probably tell you a lot. I imagine If I did that I would find some courses I would be interested in for fun, some that would appear valuable, and a whole lot for which I would have no patience.

Good luck, either way.