The couple of folk whose applications have come onto my desk didn't get any further .. simply because they had nil experience relevant to the position on offer.
I appreciate that, but lack of skills aside, would you look more kindly on an applicant with a degree than one without? Assuming all else was equal.
I ask as when I was employing (outside aviation) I would look on a degree as comparative to an amount of experience (not compensation for a total lack of experience), just maybe enough to tip the balance on the selection. For a position that might require analysis and innovative thought it was almost an essential pre-req (note I said "almost")
Given the amount of negativity regarding an airline career at the moment, I would think that taking an extra year to put further qualifications under your belt would be a great idea?