Can One Get a Solid Programming Foundation Without Going To College/University?
- by Daniel
First, I have already searched the site and read all the previous "self-taught vs. college" topics. The majority of the answers defended that going to college was the best choice, for two main reasons:
Going to college gives you the paper, which is essential to landing jobs, especially in tough economic times.
Going to college gives you a solid programming base, teaching you the principles that will be essential regardless of the language/path you take after.
Here comes my question: I am not worried about reason 1 at all, because I already have my own company (I build websites/ do affiliate marketing) and a stable financial situation, so I am pretty sure I won't need to look around for a job.
I am worried about reason 2 though. That is, I want to make sure I'll have as solid a programming foundation as anyone else out there, and I am wondering if that is possible with self-learning.
Suppose I take my time to study the very basics, like discrete maths, algorithm design, programming logic, computer architecture, Assembly, C programming, databases and data structures - mostly using books,online resources and lots of coding. Say I spend 1-2 years covering those basics.
Do you think my foundation would be solid, or still lack in comparison to someone who went to college?
