If your code today is identical as yesterdays, you aren't progressing. I have a few moments where I just change my coding style all together, it happens once or twice a year. Recent stuff shouldn't be bad but like 5 years ago yikes.

If you want into the web development world, which doesn't really require any degree (for most jobs) I'd suggest PHP (because there are a ton of jobs) and Javascript.

If you want to make the most money, learn Python. Javascript second. You can also transition. Once you get one language under your belt, it gets easy.

I started out with Ruby, but I had a really hard time finding any work with that language, in fact I found simple jobs editing Ruby code that others couldn't (Ruby on Rails to be exact). I learned PHP, CodeIgniter and the doors opened. Using Laravel now. I mastered javascript first though, and javascript jobs are as plentiful as PHP. You need a portfolio and a github account showing your code. No one ever asked to see my degree in Internet Productions (a 2 year program at some shit college), in fact I was a few credits short of finishing it and I just said I had it.

If you are good, you don't need paper, people want work examples. This however is just for web development in my experience. And my experience alone. I am doing very well because of the connections I made on my path. If you work with someone who is a good worker and good person, keep them as a friend on Facebook or something. You never know who gets a golden chance and may need your help.