We've been hearing for years that IT certs may be more valuable than a degree. Cheaper, faster, more focused skill-based "badges" are on the way: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/05/education/beyond-the-college-degree-online-educational-badges.html?ref=education
I am wondering about the shelf life of these badges. If someone has a degree from 20 years ago - there is an assumption that this degree still has some use. I see badges as having a definite life, and perhaps a short one. I also have a picture in my mind of people going about an office draped in the equivalent of Boy Scout Merit badges.