Long Distance Degree? Opinions?

[DeanMc]

I am considering doing one. Here are the details. Are they the same as regular IT degree's? Also are they worth it for pursuing a job in programming....

[abhijit]

I am considering doing one. Here are the details. Are they the same as regular IT degree's? Also are they worth it for pursuing a job in programming....

Do you hold a job in programming, currently?

[DeanMc]

No, I've never had a programming job!

[Davadvice]

do you not have access to the Open University in the republic? I would advise you to go to or call a local uni or college and ask the advisory team what options you would have.

I'm looking at completeing a Diploma that i never completed some years ago and have been in touch with some local establishments to see how i would go about it.

the reason i'm saying this is that they will help with any funding questions you may have. there are grants and things available in some places.

Good luck and stick with it.

[abhijit]

No, I've never had a programming job!

What I have noticed is that part time degrees are a great way for advancing your existing career, but they rarely offer you an entry into the job market.

If I were you, I would look into a full-time degree.
That's just me.

[DeanMc]

@ Davadvice: Yes I can study with the OU in the republic and they actually have a few campus here. The issue is the price. The Irish government refuse to fund OU grant's and as such modules are hugely expensive (I believe in the region of €1,500 per module). To be honest I would imagine the course I am going for is ripped directly from the OU syllabus.

@ abhijit: I would love to do a full time degree but until someone kindly funds my mortgage it is not an option.

[Davadvice]

not that i would condone working the system. i'm not sure how far from the border you are. but would it help if you had, like an address in the UK.

Would your work pay for the training? some works have schemes that help employees fund training.

Good luck Mate.

[DeanMc]

It would be too far to be practical. I asked my employer but they said they wouldn't fund it.

[storm5510]

It would be too far to be practical. I asked my employer but they said they wouldn't fund it.

They should! If it helps you to help them. A lot of companies jump at a chance to send their workers for extra classes, or even to begin anew.

[Davadvice]

I think that the UK and Ireland have a very different attitude to the US in this area, unfortunately.

I am lucky and work for a company that will consider this type of thing however the majority of companies won't : (

Have you been in touch with the local Education authority to see if the have any options for you ?

[chris128]

They should! If it helps you to help them. A lot of companies jump at a chance to send their workers for extra classes, or even to begin anew.

But hes not a programmer now so how is sending him on an IT/programming course going to benefit them

[DeanMc]

Ezatically!

[chris128]

For that kind of money and time I think personally I would rather just go on a few programming courses and get some microsoft exams passed, rather than ending up with a generic IT degree. Just my opinion though