I've worked in image processing and pattern recognition my whole career (~20 years). My last position was as principal software engineer. I don't have a graduat

I've worked in image processing and pattern recognition my whole career (~20 years). My last position was as principal software engineer. I don't have a graduate degree so it is certainly possible to work in the field without one. Many places divide the work between two groups: an algorithms group and a software group. It's going to be harder to get into the algorithms group without a graduate degree (without experience anyway). But if you join a software group, there will be lots of opportunities to solve pattern recognition problems. And if your love is machine learning, you can move in that direction as you prove yourself to others. I know nothing about natural language processing, but that's my $.02 from my pov. PS. Hey jbooth: I took a look at your web site. You guys do cools stuff!