Coding is fun and easier to get into than you might think.. You might get started with basics of python or javascript using https://www.codecademy.com/ I think javascript is a good one in this industry because you can make dapps that run completely within the browser! Take some irl courses, too, if that's an option for you!

it certainly seems like universities are authoritarian centralized machine makers, some times.. but, They need to adapt to the times, just like everything else, especially if they want to stay relevant. Youtube, codacademy and online options are certainly 'decentralizing' the school industry, which was desperate for some good competition.

Ultimately, people go to universities for degrees from trusted authorities.. I'd say the consciousness around who has authority to grant degrees is changing, with online reputation cultivation.

Google and Apple no longer require degrees to work there..
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/08/16/15-companies-that-no-longer-require-employees-to-have-a-college-degree.html