[wayner]

The way I read it there are many ways to learn, and today much of the knowledge is no longer locked away.

A good self motivated and intrigued person can learn far more in a shorter time than an unmotivated student in a boring class with a pitiful instructor.

A motivated student and an enthralling instructor is another recipe for success
...as are long term mentorship programs

The big question is in trusting the person's knowledge, and who certifies them to be competent.
-one way is to lie
-Another way is to pay money to a "university" that will sell you a bogus degree

A better way is to go to a real university

But if you are self taught, AND can point to a track record of results, maybe the degree isn't necessary, especially if your work has to be signed off on anyway by a P-eng, some auditor, an inspector or whoever.

This raises the new question beyond what is the best way to learn, but rather who certifies the certifiers