How valuable is an applied science degree in the IT/tech field?

Do you really need a bachelor’s to get a job that pays a decent livable salary in IT? My goal is to become a network administrator or database administrator. Can I go to a two year junior college and maybe get some certs to get my foot in the door? I’ve heard many stories where many IT pros started out in help desk and worked their way up. What’s the desktop support/help desk environment like? I’m not necessarily looking for a job that pays six figures. Maybe a job that pays around 40,000 is fine for me give or take a little.