IMO...
A degree (especially a 4 year degree) says that you can 'focus' on a task and be successful at it. It tells employers that you are dedicated to a cause.
Experience is big (with me), like self-taught, etc. Nobody can over look experience.
Certified is like a little of both of the above, but not quite long enough OR in the real world.
All three ideas have their place in the business world... SO I think you need to figure out where you want to end up in 5 - 10 years.
Do you want to be working for yourself (get experience) or do you want to be a manager/vp at a big company (get 4 degree) OR just have a job at any company (get cerfification).
again, just my thoughts
good luck