I have no formal academic credential in CS. I got my first job as a programmer off of Craigslist, and I recommend taking a look to everyone who is having trouble finding an entry level position. People/companies advertising there typically don't care too much about pedigree (this should not surprise, given the branding of Craigslist), and also usually aren't looking for rocket scientists.
I agree with the advice others have given re: years of experience: it's rarely a hard requirement.
Take a look at this list of software jobs for NYC[1]. I see three or four entry level positions just on the first page.
I'll add one more thing. Very few of the jobs on Craigslist are "sexy." Ignore the sexy jobs. Once you get your foot in the door, your options expand enormously. The adage "no one cares about your grades after your first job" holds fairly well, especially in this industry. I got that first Craigslist job in the summer of 2013, and was only there for five months (it was a horrible, toxic work environment). I now make more than 5x what I made at that first job. Whatever first job you take doesn't have to define the rest of your career.
I agree with the advice others have given re: years of experience: it's rarely a hard requirement.
Take a look at this list of software jobs for NYC[1]. I see three or four entry level positions just on the first page.
[1] https://newyork.craigslist.org/search/sof