doesn't have to be an expensive one, or in-person ... but that degree carries a lot of weight!
this field takes years to grow into ... why not get that 'piece of paper' while learning it?
I suspect that (at an inexpensive, maybe community college) the cost/benefit ratio (for time and income) leans toward that college experience.
My opinions, after 60 years of programming and 40-some in software engineering.
"College Matters" ... Yeah Buddy!!!
That's some experience there.
Carry me along sir