Question

Entry Level IT job??

Entry level IT, IT careers, just starting, rookie, degrees, Degree, Certifications, A+, Network+, Server+, Security+

Hello,
I am looking to get into IT. I've always been awesome at computers but haven't had any formal training or experience in the industry. I'm in full time ministry and do not plan to go to school to get any type of degree. I'm doing my own research and online training, reading, etc. Here's my question: Every single IT job posting Iook at says that they require some type of degree or at least 2 years experience. Is there any hope in finding an entry-level job in IT with the right certifications? I am working on getting A+, Net+, Server+, Linux+ and Security+ to start, but I'm getting a little discouraged because I'm starting to think that all of that will mean absolutely nothing if I don't have some degree.

Everyone says that they want a degree. Pretty much no one actually requires one. I've been working in IT for over 10 years now and an a Senior Database Administrator and Architect and have one not gotten one job because I don't have a degree.

Certs are designed to help you prove that you can do the job, not to help you get the first job. What counts the most is experience. Start with a help desk job, or tech support job. With a year or two of experience you can then look into moving up into higher level positions.

Don't get discouraged. Getting started can be tough, but it's possible to do. Worry about getting the first job, then worry about the certs. Certs with no experience will mean almost nothing.