I know many self-taught "software engineers". Most, if not all of them spend a great deal of time training BS-CSCI holders how to make a living out of their science.  Many of the best programmers I've worked with didn't even start, much less finish college.<p>If disrespecting the likes of Major General Chuck Yeager (who can still kick Chuck Norris's ass) makes you feel better about your student loans, more power to you.