Pure programming is more and more viewed as a commodity. Knowing your domain, having "architect" skills, and having some people skills make programmers worth much more than what most are paid today.
I have an MS in computer science from a big 10 school, and my training has helped me tremendously when combined with the ability to talk to business stakeholders. I also work as an independent contractor, which allows me to make 3-5x what a programmer would make.
If all you are is a mechanic, you have too much competition to command a high salary. You need to broaden your skill set to go after bigger $$.
The truly gifted programmer is a truly rare person. I have only met a few in my 20+ years in IT. In most cases, the employers of these people didn't know what a gem they had in their employ.
A degree in anything is a waste of time if you don't bring something else to the table.
Slashdot Mirror
Pure programming is more and more viewed as a commodity. Knowing your domain, having "architect" skills, and having some people skills make programmers worth much more than what most are paid today. I have an MS in computer science from a big 10 school, and my training has helped me tremendously when combined with the ability to talk to business stakeholders. I also work as an independent contractor, which allows me to make 3-5x what a programmer would make. If all you are is a mechanic, you have too much competition to command a high salary. You need to broaden your skill set to go after bigger $$. The truly gifted programmer is a truly rare person. I have only met a few in my 20+ years in IT. In most cases, the employers of these people didn't know what a gem they had in their employ. A degree in anything is a waste of time if you don't bring something else to the table.