Even regular degrees aren't seen as "official." I'm tempted to pursue a graduate degree but I'm afraid it's just another scam.

Education in America is over. Public schools are completely underfunded, mismanaged and ignored. Universities have become businesses that offer a horrendous ROI. If your lucky enough to get in an Ivy or you'd like to work in academia (good luck in both cases), go. Otherwise save your money and figure out your own path because our previous highway to middle-class has crumbled.