I’m currently doing a feasibility study on a new hobby: electronics.

More specificallly, programming microcontrollers or programmable logic devices so I can make cool gadgets. If there are any electrical engineers reading this (you know who you are) who want to give me any advice on where to start with this, feel free. I know pretty much nothing about it, but I learn quick.  My question is, can I do this without going to night school for a Master’s in EE?  And, can I get started without having to cash out my employer-sponsored retirement fund?