End College Degrees, Institute Certifications

I received a rather helpful list of IT certifications that provide efficient, self-respecting people a great alternative to the scam that is becoming known as "college education."  Certainly, some degrees still have merit, but if you are a logical, self-respecting person who just refuses to be scammed for 2 years of liberal art pre-reqs that have nothing to do with your major, and would prefer to get working instead of indoctrinated, then this list may be of benefit to you.  The reader's e-mail is below, following a link to the certification list (in PDF file format on my Box account):

Dear Aaron,

Please find attached an article which is a comprehensive listing of IT certifications. I would imagine different authorities would re-arrange the list somewhat, but it gives a good overall picture. I attended a private-sector IT training school called 'MyComputerCareer' and those who were dedicated students made it work for them, gaining at least a couple entry-level IT certificates and an entry-level job. I managed to get four of the 'Microsoft Technology Associate' certificates (the four in the infrastructure track), and the MTA exams are strictly for entry-level familiarization. In the opinion of one instructor, they are primarily for the first 12-18 months of IT-related employment, and there is little need to pursue more of them after that point. Also, the program centered around the A+ and the Network+ certs, which are both offered by the CompTIA organization (Computer Tech Industry Association). They are both 'generalist' certificates, and are frequently referred to in tandem. I think you had mentioned this: anyone who asks for specific advice, this is obviously a field where independent study goes a long way. Personally, I cannot see an 'Associates in Applied Science' (A.A.S. degree) being a necessity. Proficiency with the needed skills seems to be more compelling. I cannot clearly see an A.A.S. being compelling resume material, unless it leads the way to a bachelor's degree in a related subject (but then there are higher level certs. where those who start in their early 20s can be earning close to 200K per year by their late thirties, and they do not involve having a bachelor's degree). 'MyComputerCareer' provides its graduates with a 'certificate of completion' which has limited utility. The school has limited name recognition, and thus the certs are that much more important. Please let me know if you have any questions, and thanks for getting the word out!

regards,

XXXXX,

 List found here.

(the list was somewhat cumbersome to copy and paste the text so I thought it easier to just link to it.  There is also additional information included about each certification that may be of use to you).