The TRUTH About Online Computer Science Degrees

Some good places to start learning:
Awesome Web Development Course → imp.i384100.net/5gv519
*Disclosure: Please assume that most links I share are affiliate links. I may receive a commission for qualifying purchases.
MORE GOOD COURSES
Python Course → imp.i384100.net/LXMKoZ
Data Structures Course → imp.i384100.net/anMOYZ
Code Interview Prep → imp.i384100.net/MmMAjK
Why an online computer science degree may not be worth it.
🖥 Other stuff I use as a programmer → jamescrossjr.com/programming/...
📷 Gear I use for making KZbin Videos: jamescrossjr.com/youtube/gear
💰 VidIQ → Tool I used to grow my channel faster: vidiq.com/jamescross
Disclosure → How I make money with affiliate / paid links. For example, As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
jamescrossjr.com/affiliate-di...

[@jamescross]

My review of SDC and Sophia courses: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYPWY4Oif6eseNE

[@juanmacias5922]

Universities provide proof, proof that you can finish a program, and proof that you know the basics. As many new grads found out, you still need to push forward to get the experience needed to land an entry level job (Not that you are seeking an entry level job). No one can tell you how to live your life, but that's what a degree is, a proof of competency. You still need to go forth and update yourself to the current state of technology. My only disappointment with Universities is how tied they are with capitalism.

[@jamescross]

Good points.

[@ivangerginov5648]

While it's unfortunate you decided to quit, I completely agree with your conclusions. Probably around 90% of the CS courses I've taken were useless. It's exactly as you said - teaching the history of AI instead of building one; learning about paradigms in software engineering when we had never made a project longer than 200 lines of code, etc. The good courses were Databases, Data Structures and Algorithms, the web development ones, and Networking (although barely useful as it didn't really go in depth). Maybe there were a couple more that I'm forgetting. It's the sad reality for many degrees though. Most consist mostly of theory and very little practice, only to later be told, "Oh, you expected more? Sign up for one of our master's programs." (btw they're no better) In my opinion, degrees make sense when you're young and have no work experience since a degree can somewhat offset the lack of experience. While you're young, you still have no idea what you want to do in life, so the 4-6 years (if you go for a master's) you get can be used for making those decisions. It's a good thing you gave it a try, though! It takes some bravery to quit. Most people just get stuck in the sunk cost fallacy mindset.

[@jamescross]

Thanks for your very thoughtful comment and insights!

[@NikkieMullet]

I have to concur. I spent 4 years in a CS degree program years ago (brick-and-mortar), and while I'm happy to have finished my degree, I can confidently say I've used less than 5% of my degree program in my career.

[@drewbird87]

Good to see you James! Sounds like you made the right choice. Kudos to you for knowing when to call it. -- Hope this means we'll see more of you on KZbin. 🙂

[@jamescross]

I hope so too!

[@hypnaudiostream3574]

Degrees don’t help you make anything or understand anything. You need to work on projects outside of work. Learn programming

[@jamescross]

Projects are definitely important.

[@Alex.Shalda]

Thanks for sharing

[@gdj777]

Unis stuck in the 1900s

[@obrienortega6942]

I believe that most of the CS degrees are outdated. Why do you need to take three to four math classes? It's ridiculous.

[@garciabyron218]

Why did you pursue a bachelors? There’s programs that allow you to get your masters as long as you can prove you know the basics. University of colorado-boulder online accepts you as long as you can pass 3 initial classes which then count towards your masters

[@Ou8y2k2]

That seems wise. Perhaps Adobe has an AI training path which could lead to a different role in the company.

[@ArtofTre]

What about a MIS degree or any management type software/I.T degree? I think that would help with career progression and get you involved more in the business side of things.

[@jamescross]

Those are possibilities

[@SamanthaDutchy]

im gonna start learning how to code because im really interested in it. However im looking for a good laptop to buy and just get started with, currently using an old windows lenovo laptop and that stuff lags even when i got too many browser pages open. Currently thinking about a macbook air 15 BUT alot of people told me the macbook pro 14 or 16 is better, would love some general feedback. Money isn't an issue but i dont just wanna '' waste '' it.

[@jamescross]

Having owned several air and pros over the years, the pros have performed better. Gave the airs to my kids. I personally have a 14 pro and like the size. For work I have a company provided 16. Both are good.

[@SamanthaDutchy]

@@jamescross just bought the 14, wanna spend my free time learning how to code. been feeling like i have been wasting my time playing videogames for the past year or so

[@jamescross]

Nice

[@craigspencer4306]

Why did you choose thomas over wgu cs program?

[@jamescross]

Main reason was Thomas Edison had more flexibility with scheduling. WGU is less flexible with its 6 full time blocks. Also, WGU courses are fixed. You don't get the electives options. However, per my comments in the video, TESU doesn't have as many options as I would have hoped. My prior history degree covered more credit hours at TESU. If I didn't already have a degree and was determined to go an online route, it would probably be WGU. Disclaimer: I worked at WGU before coming to Adobe.

[@GeorgiaMade404706]

WGU is a diploma mill and only serve as a “check the box“ type deal for HR.

[@Tythecodeguy]

@@GeorgiaMade404706try going to wgu and then retype that comment

[@rtlau-mk4di]

​@@GeorgiaMade404706WGU is not a diploma mill...

[@jjcooney9758]

It’s only 8 months, if you stop now and need to come back it after 3 yrs you will have to start from scratch. I have been there, can we talk? Do you need help?

[@jamescross]

Thanks. Though it's not really about needing help. The courses weren't difficult. 8 months is 8 months I could be developing skills to keep relevant.