I'd imagine it's at least in part cultural. I got a job developing after receiving a two year degree almost ten years ago now, and have felt almost zero pressure to pursue further degrees. My career has grown beyond what I ever imagined too. American development shops and developers in my experience value degrees far less than actual experience and ability. You can jump right in and start having actual experience or you can spend 6 years in school and come out behind your peers. My 2ยข anyway.
