I think the work experience is more useful than the degree. But one can gain experience only when he gets the chance to work and for getting that chance one should have some theoretical knowledge about the fields he or she is intend to go.
Once you starts working then only you faced the problems that comes in ur way, the solution for that problem can be solved by taking an advice from more experienced person.
This is a way by which one can learn.
But initially some knowledge is important to gain an experience.
