Colege question...go for MCSE/Cisco certs only, or an IT Associates dregree?

[blurredvision]

I'm now 24, going on 25 here pretty soon, and it's about time that I get off my ass and go get some schoolin'. At a local tech-like university, I'm looking into the MCSE/Cisco cert program. However, the admissions/recruit guy also suggested getting an Associate's IT degree. The degree would consists of a bunch of other classes that I really don't care to take, and includes the MCSE certifications.

I'm not sure of which is the better option for my resume. A recap:

Option #1: Take MCSE and Cisco classes to get my certifications in those fields. Class time, around 24 months.

Option #2: Take IT Associate's degree courses. I would get my MCSE certs which is part of the program, plus the Associate's degree in IT, but no Cisco certs unless I wanted to pay an extra $10k and take another year of school. Class time for degree, around 24 months.

Both options will be around the same price, but that isn't too much of a concern at the moment. You can see what kind of field I'm looking at getting into. I know location would play a factor in this, but I honestly couldn't tell you what the market looks like around here (Central KY). There's always a chance of moving the future, as well.

So which do you guys think is a better option as far as my future is concerned?

 

[tami]

i think that getting cisco and mcse can only help you. they are very useful examinations, and if you get a corresponding position at a company, they will be extremely helpful. plus, you should go for what you like. if you can possibly get a part time job to supplement your work experience and to utilize the skills you learn in the classroom, you should also go for that.

a lot of positions i see here require some cisco certification, and they are higher paying jobs. i don't see them stressing the need for an associate's degree as much, but it all depends on where you apply.

 

[DukeN]

I'd put in the time for a university degree, a'la a BSc.

 

[tami]

Originally posted by: DukeN
I'd put in the time for a university degree, a'la a BSc.

this is also a suggestion.

i think in terms of what employers look for, they priortize like this:

bachelors > certifications > associates

sometimes you can equate associates with certifications, but at that point, i think it depends on how many certifications you have and how much real-world use you have put into it.

 

[blurredvision]

Thanks for the insight tami. I do not want to put the time and money towards a bachelors at the moment, so that's out of the question. However, I am definitely leaning towards the certs only, as I just feel like they'd be more beneficial than an associates.

 

[kd2777]

What about doing all three?

Getting the Cert, while working on your AS, that you can transfer to a BS.

I know that LCC has all the classes for both the CISCO ans MCSE, plus you can pic up some programing while working towards your AS, then if you want later or if the job calls for it you can transfer to UK or EKU for your BS in CIS or maybe the CEng @ UK.

Just a thought, I would just hate to see you spend 10,000 a year when LCC can be had for 2600 per year.

LAter

 

[DougK62]

Associates degree is worthless. Only get it if you plan to go for a Bachelor's.

 

[necine]

Originally posted by: DougK62
Associates degree is worthless. Only get it if you plan to go for a Bachelor's.

It's not worthless. It's a good stepping stone to a bachelors.

 

[DougK62]

Originally posted by: necine

Originally posted by: DougK62
Associates degree is worthless. Only get it if you plan to go for a Bachelor's.

It's not worthless. It's a good stepping stone to a bachelors.

Uhh...isn't that exactly what I just said? lol

 

[talyn00]

i honestly think certs can be pretty worthless, you can just keep retaking the exam until you pass.

 

[blurredvision]

Originally posted by: kd2777
What about doing all three?

Getting the Cert, while working on your AS, that you can transfer to a BS.

I know that LCC has all the classes for both the CISCO ans MCSE, plus you can pic up some programing while working towards your AS, then if you want later or if the job calls for it you can transfer to UK or EKU for your BS in CIS or maybe the CEng @ UK.

Just a thought, I would just hate to see you spend 10,000 a year when LCC can be had for 2600 per year.

LAter

For some reason, I keep forgetting about LCC, or BCTC as the website seems to say now. I meant to ask you about this when I talked to you the other day, but forgot about it after the excitement of having a LAN party . I'll glance over their site, and you can get off your ass and tell me what you know as well .