Whether people think it is fair or not, a college degree ads an incredible boost to any business or career. Even years of practical experience in a subject, that may far outweigh what someone possessing a degree knows, does not hold the same weight in the public's eyes, as a college degree.

Many business owners are true experts in their field, however they do not have a "formula" education. Does this always hurt? NO, it does not hurt in many labor type fields, if you do the labor, but a business owner is looking to get better deals from vendors, give presentations, or get bids - a college degree can make all the difference.

Think about it, many business owners have an "about" profile on their website. If you read profiles, education is always one of the first highlights, followed by a list of experience.

The lack of a college degree can also affect an individual business owner in how much they can ask. If the going rate of a bid is a certain price, those reviewing the bids, will expect a lower rate from representatives and -presenters who do not have a degree like their competitors.

Even certificates of completion from accomplished or reputable training schools can help, but they still do not bring the respect and prestige of a college degree.

• Prestige to the Owner
• More prestige for the owner or sales rep, that they have been thoroughly educated in a college setting
• Opens up opportunities for projects that are not even available to those without a college degree
• Because of the respect, dealing with vendors who know you are college educated results in better proposals and pricing
• Allows a more elite profile and about page or profile to be published
• People will have higher value of education and will pay higher rates to college educated people/businesses even if a non college educated person might be better or smarter in the business - it is all a perception of value.
• Get real credit for your knowledge and experience

The good news is that any business owner or freelancer who has extensive experience in their field can get an online college degree quickly and inexpensively. A few online universities offer the opportunity to earn your Associates, Bachelor's or Masters degree based on your work experience, and/or a combination of college courses or training classes you may have already taken.

You can find universities that offer life experience or work experience degrees with a simple search. A good university will take a free application, evaluate your experience, and then let you know if you qualify. Simply put together an "expanded" resume of your experience and document a time line, and then submit your credentials for evaluation. You can literally have an accredited college degree in days if you qualify!