Good question, definately something to think about. For me, I graduated from a four year university last year and landed a great job as a system administrator with great pay. I was an MIS graduate, which where I went to college that degree was half business related, half computer science related. There were many things that I have either taught myself or learned in college that are invaluable. I loved and hated the college experience at times, but in the end, it was definately worth everything that I put into it. I'd recommend that at a minimum, you get an associate's degree from a two year tech school. It'll at least get you in the door at some places. To be quite honest with you though, I would attend a four year university and major in either MIS or Computer Science. In either case, you get the background in computing that you need, a piece of paper saying you have that degree, and the broad education that comes from a four year university. Although I may have hated it at times, taking classes like Earth Science, Literature, etc. helped me in the end (Broadened my knowledge base)

Although it has already been mentioned, experience is key - some may ask, "this employer wants me to have experience to get this job, but how do I gain experience if I can't land a job in the first place." It is frustrating, but if you look hard enough, you'll get your foot in the door somewhere. You may have to work on the low end of the pole for the first year or so, but afterwords you'll move up in either that company or another.

The biggest mistake I probably made was not paying enough attention in college. There were plenty of times when I'd party too hard the night before class, not study for an exam, or generally just not give a damn about college. I wish now that I would have payed more attention to my studies and such, because some things that were taught in the college I'm having to relearn now.

Definately go to school, the four year degree will come in handy, belive it or not. After you get that degree, then go for some certifications.

Hope I could be of some help...