This is all good advice. I was in a similar situation and I'm quite a lot older than you. I did some study both at a private college and then University. Loads of courses are available and university courses are very, very cheap compared to the private sector. Much of what you'll learn can be found in books and on the internet but it's very valuable to meet people already in the industry. Most of the people I studied with who've got new jobs, got them through friends and contacts.
Best wishes for your new career!