Advice on Educational Options.

Hey there people...

I want your insight on my future educational options: I'm 26 and 3 years ago, I've taken the A+/Network+ programs but didn't take the cert exams. I've been working for the past 7 years (since '95) in IT. I've taken college courses in 95-97, but my grades aren't good, in fact, some of them I've not done the finals for, therefore; didn't receive credit.

What can I do to obtain a degree? I've been thinking of the Prior Learning and Recognition degree's out there, but MOST are from degree mills. Some schools including JIU doesn't have any prerequisites for courses, even for their Masters programs (in JIU's webpage, only several Education courses have prerequisites). If that is the case, can anyone just take all the required courses and get the degree? Obviously, the prerequisites are the prior bachelor degree and getting admitted.

I'm tight on money, currently living in Canada, and am planning to move to the states if I can get a good job there. Are there states that would provide funding for "state residents?"
Ie: Cali has a $11/credit for lower division community college credits which are xferable to univ (or a 4 yr college)
Another ex: Texas/Arizona have tuition for 2yr colleges for $33/credit. In order to be a state resident, don't I have to live there for a min of 1yr?

By reading previous threads, i've got a sort of an idea what I can do, such as FEMA/CEU/CLEP/DANTES and portfolio assessments; But still I'm confused yet want to get something started so I can get a degree before I turn 30.

Thanks,