Regionals won't require the four year degree. Perhaps the instructor had that in mind.

Above that, four year degrees are either required, or so common that you will have a very difficult time being competitive without one.

For the remainder of aviation, some corporate jobs require one. Some other jobs require one, but few.

If I were to counsel someone today on the matter, mine would be to get training, get flying, and do a degree online while you work. Bear in mind that doing so takes longer and is made considerably more difficult by having far fewer hours to study, with far more distractions in life, but it can certainly be done.