what is the value of an associates degree in
network engineering, or does certifications
mean more. my question is what do employers look at more.
and what schools would you recommend on the east coast around delaware to get my degree in network engineering degree

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A degree, whether Associate or Bachelors, is a very valuable asset to have when applying for jobs.

I am two classes away from finishing an AAS in Computer Networking Technology(finish this Spring) and I will then start working on a Bachelors in Technical Management. I am also working on completing my MCSE before I start my Bachelors degree.

It has been a positive factor on my resume. It gives the prospective employer the idea that you have had a formal education and training. It also give the employer the impression that you are looking for a career and are not just jumping in because IT is the hot ticket right now.

One thing to take into consideration is that most all schools have a career placement office that will help you find a job. A lot of companies post jobs in career placement offices.

A degree is also a better negotiating factor than just a certification. Look at it like this, say you and another person start with a company at the same time. You both have an MCSE and about a year of experience. But you have a Associates' degree. A position comes up and you both apply for it. Even though you are both equally qualified and good workers, you are going to have the upper hand because of your degree.

A lot of people may disagree, but work on your degree first and then worry about getting certified.

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I have to come from a different view on this. I have not found that a degree is needed. Five years ago I was a $12/hr electronics tech. Since switching to computers I have increased my income by 250% on the strength of my certs and job experiance.

The only area I have been held back in is entrance into a management possition. I have been told that if I just go back and finish a 4 year degree (I have 3 years completed), that I could get a management job. Thing is, I don't want a management job. The managers I see have, for the most part, lost their technology edge. They are too busy managing to keep up with the changes. I got into this business because I love the technology, and I don't want to lose that.

I guess it all depends on what you want from your career. But know that you don't need a degree to make it in this industry.

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I disagree with you to some extent on that castletoth. You do not have to have a degree, or certification(s) for that matter, to get an IT job. You do not need a degree or certification(s) to "move-up" so-to-speak. BUT like certifications, a degree is a little extra added insurance. In my case, I got my past position and my current position without a degree(working on it at the time) OR any form of certification(s). I even know people who are doing real well in the IT field without any form of papers whatsoever. A degree can help put your resume on top of the pile so-to-speak.

No matter what people say, a recruiter is going to see what type of formal training a person possesses. When you have hundreds of applications/resumes coming across your desk daily, you have to have some way to sort the candidates out. Now remember, a degree does not say that you know more than someone who just has certifications. Experience is what matters most.

As far as management positions go, it is all in how you make it. That applies to any job or position you pursue. In my current position, not only am I doing network and system administration I am also doing the management of the technical aspects of the department. You never know what position you may have to take.

In my case, I am going to use my AAS and a certification to negotiate a raise with my boss when review time rolls around. I probably would get it without either one, but extra insurance doesn't hurt.

You have to look at this situation with your best interest in mind. Everybody's situation and success will be different. Decide on what you are comfortable with and what recruiters in your area are looking for in their IT staff.

[This message has been edited by Bobby Digital (edited 09-18-2000).]

[This message has been edited by Bobby Digital (edited 09-18-2000).]

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A similiar post on this topic: http://www.examnotes.net/ubb/Forum6/HTML/000644.html

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In a nutshell, organizations really don't care if you have a degree or not. They want EXPERIENCE. Experience matters most. Period. But if you have experience and a degree you can get more money. If you have experience, a degree, AND a certification, you can get even more money.

You have a large number of people migrating into the IT field. You have to make yourself stand out above everyone else.

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