The TRUTH About Online Computer Science Degrees

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Why an online computer science degree may not be worth it.

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[juanmacias]

Universities provide proof, proof that you can finish a program, and proof that you know the basics. As many new grads found out, you still need to push forward to get the experience needed to land an entry level job (Not that you are seeking an entry level job). No one can tell you how to live your life, but that's what a degree is, a proof of competency. You still need to go forth and update yourself to the current state of technology. My only disappointment with Universities is how tied they are with capitalism.

[ivangerginov]

While it's unfortunate you decided to quit, I completely agree with your conclusions. Probably around 90% of the CS courses I've taken were useless. It's exactly as you said - teaching the history of AI instead of building one; learning about paradigms in software engineering when we had never made a project longer than 200 lines of code, etc.
The good courses were Databases, Data Structures and Algorithms, the web development ones, and Networking (although barely useful as it didn't really go in depth). Maybe there were a couple more that I'm forgetting.

It's the sad reality for many degrees though. Most consist mostly of theory and very little practice, only to later be told, "Oh, you expected more? Sign up for one of our master's programs." (btw they're no better)
In my opinion, degrees make sense when you're young and have no work experience since a degree can somewhat offset the lack of experience. While you're young, you still have no idea what you want to do in life, so the 4-6 years (if you go for a master's) you get can be used for making those decisions.

It's a good thing you gave it a try, though! It takes some bravery to quit. Most people just get stuck in the sunk cost fallacy mindset.

[drewbird]

Good to see you James! Sounds like you made the right choice. Kudos to you for knowing when to call it. -- Hope this means we'll see more of you on YouTube. 🙂

[obrienortega]

I believe that most of the CS degrees are outdated. Why do you need to take three to four math classes? It's ridiculous.

[ArtofTre]

What about a MIS degree or any management type software/I.T degree? I think that would help with career progression and get you involved more in the business side of things.

[hypnaudiostream]

Degrees don’t help you make anything or understand anything. You need to work on projects outside of work. Learn programming

[garciabyron]

Why did you pursue a bachelors? There’s programs that allow you to get your masters as long as you can prove you know the basics.
University of colorado-boulder online accepts you as long as you can pass 3 initial classes which then count towards your masters

[Ouyk]

That seems wise. Perhaps Adobe has an AI training path which could lead to a different role in the company.

[craigspencer]

Why did you choose thomas over wgu cs program?

[jjcooney]

It’s only 8 months, if you stop now and need to come back it after 3 yrs you will have to start from scratch. I have been there, can we talk? Do you need help?