My educational background is industrial automation - at University there was not so much of computer science included (in fact apart from basic Turbo Pascal syn

My educational background is industrial automation - at University there was not so much of computer science included (in fact apart from basic Turbo Pascal syntax there was no other programming-related courses). Though I was fixed on programming since I was 12 (was starting from silly programs like password, gradually "upgrading" towards complex data structures and algorithms, through machine learning and finishing at software engineering best practices, exercising different software life cycles and dev/ops concepts) and ended up working within web technologies (Python, HTML, JavaScript) and ultimately leading all technical aspects of development in my current employment. So this story would suggest a degree is not necessary in order to be successful. Passion and right motivation are crucial. There is good money in this industry however passion should come from all great and creative stuff you can bring to life in this micro cosmos we call computers. When I hire people I try to find out if they are passionate about programming. Degree might be a nice bonus but not a must. Hired some inexperienced devs over those presenting years of experience and degree just because they had this "spark" in them. Having said all of this you need to be aware that University degree is an entry point in many top posts out there. Many recruiters would also reject your CV just on this premise of not having a relevant degree. So if you are young and still have time to study (i.e. no family / day job) I would advice to stretch your muscles and invest your time to get a degree. In time you will find it will be only more difficult to get one. Good luck :-)