 |
In 1998, Brian Schneider received a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from UW-Platteville as an on-campus student. Interning and networking with professional engineers led him to conclude that project management is a necessary skill for today's engineers. After careful consideration, he decided to pursue a graduate degree in Project Management.
Schneider was offered a graduate assistant position in the UWP Distance Learning Center while he was enrolled in on-campus graduate courses. He soon found himself involved in the creation of the fledging online graduate degrees. He researched established programs, assisted with grant writing, prepared statistical reports, and contributed a crucial student's perspective to the new project.
Looking back, Schneider said the overall goals of those creating the new degree programs were fairly simple. "We wanted to create online programs that would allow flexibility for the student with family and work commitments, while still providing a quality educational experience. We targeted the Project Management degree instead of an MBA because it's something that is very needed in the working world -- but there weren't a lot of programs designed around it. "
While the online courses were being developed at UW-Platteville, Schneider continued to attend on-campus graduate classes. When career opportunities moved him to North Carolina, he took online courses from UW-Platteville and was able to complete his degree while working.
Schneider was relieved to discover that distance education courses were flexible, allowing him to balance work and personal commitments. He has experienced the evolution of the online software over the years and says that, although the changes have taken some getting used to, he believes that keeping up with advances in technology is important and maintaining student-friendly software is paramount.
Schneider reports that having a Project Management degree on his resume has increased his career opportunities. "It was a key for my getting the opportunity to interview for jobs," said Schneider. "The MS in Project Management helps me stand out from the rest of the resumes."
Schneider is adamant in his advice for anyone considering a graduate degree in project management. "In the United States, having a bachelor's degree isn't always enough anymore -- especially if you want to move up the corporate ladder. There are companies that require that additional degree for certain positions, "said Schneider. "The sooner you get the master's degree, the better off you will be."
Return to pioneering graduates
|