I am surprised no one has mentioned the $ factor, as in, pay. I worked at a company as a production manager where I found out that another guy, also a production manager, made $20000 more than me. I asked my boss what gives, who promptly told me that he had a degree whereas I didn't. Since that time I have found again and again that pieces of paper justify higher pay. I disagree with this premise, but it is what it is.