Are you a resident of the USA?
First, some observations.Whee yu live, yu age and prior education are all actors to consider.
In you r area yu may already qualify for free or low-cost training.
If you do get a job offer, would your be wiling to to move out of the area?
Here is an article published in 2014.
Where the jobs are: The new blue collarBy 2017, an estimated 2.5 million new, middle-skill jobs like Poole's are expected to be added to the workforce, accounting for nearly 40% of all job growth, according to a USA TODAY analysis of local data from Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. and CareerBuilder.
Now about our question. A mail order course is convenient if you do not have the time or means to go to a class.But you do far better in classroom with other students under the direction of a teacher.
Hint: If you live in the right place, there are employers who will both hire and train you.
Not back to yur question.
IMO, a certification course is the best choice for home study. Get the certificate. That is something you can show an employer. The
A+ certification is well-known. See this:
http://www.itcareerfinder.com/it-certifications/comptia-certifications/a-plus-certification.htmlCompTIA A+ certification validates entry-level skills in today's essential IT domains, including computer repair, software & operating systems, network administration, information security, cloud computing, and troubleshooting of both desktops and mobile devices. A+ certified technicians also learn customer service & communication skills in order to effectively interact with technical and non-technical employees.
Let me repeat, If you want to move in technology without a BA degree, you have to be willing to move to a better area.
Houston
Atlanta
Salt Lake City
San Francisco Bay Area (Silicon Valley and nearby)
How that helps.