For example, if you want to be a freelance copywriter, you will not need BA. Of course, it is better to have it, but it is not crucial for success in this field. A number of great copywriters do not have BA. They just do not need it. The only things you will ever need it here are your creativity and writing skills.
In addition, there is no need to be an expert in rocket science to write about NASA space program. In most cases, people do not like to read highly scientific kind of articles- they are too boring and complicated. Your job here would be to tell the story by your own words and from your personal angle. Creativity and ability to engage readers are crucial here.
On the other hand, there are certain parts of online marketing that simply require certain knowledge and certain level of formal education. Of course, we are talking about programing kind of things.
But here is a catch. If you are not prepared to improve your knowledge and to spend some time on self-learning process, even the diploma from the best university on the world will not guarantee you success in online marketing business. This is very changeable business, where new strategies and knowledge are introduced every single day.
The bottom line: formal education is great and everyone should strive to get as higher level of education as it possible. On the other hand, self-learning process is probably even more important for successful career in online marketing. You just have to be prepared for this.