Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE - For businessmen and women who travel all over the world, it's nearly impossible to continue education in the traditional way. But with online education programs, now it is easier than ever for professionals to juggle hectic careers with post-graduate level assignments and classes.

It was because of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's online complement to its revered engineering program that John Deere and Co. employee Jaryn McNeill decided to go for a master's degree.

"The online classes worked well with my job because I travel so much. If I hadn't take classes online I would have never gotten my master's degree," McNeill said.

The Eldridge, Iowa, resident graduated from UWP in May with a master's in engineering degree with an emphasis in engineering management. It took McNeill two and a half years to complete her degree - quite an achievement considering McNeill travels to factories around the world helping train employees with John Deere process-planning tools.

After attending UWP and receiving a bachelor's of science in industrial engineering degree in 2000, the decision to return to UWP for her master's was an easy one.

"They offered me the flexibility I needed, plus I knew some of the professors from undergraduate classes," McNeill said. Her employer also helped her continue her education by providing funds for tuition.

McNeill said the flexibility of the UWP program is what made it such a success for her.

"With being able to choose what classes to take in some cases, it offered you the ability to cater it to your current needs and interests," McNeill said. "I actually enjoyed the online classes because I had deadlines, but I could do it at my own pace. If I had work or family obligations I could work ahead if needed."

Attending classes online was especially important for McNeill as she traveled to Europe one semester.

"I was able to finish all of my homework and test before I left. It was nice to know that I didn't have to worry about catching up when I got back," McNeill said.

Students enrolled in UWP distance education classes come from all over the country and even the world. Students from 33 different states are currently enrolled, as well as six international students.

"One of the things I found most interesting about talking online classes is that you have people with a lot of different experience from all over the world providing input into the class discussions and projects," McNeill said. "Everyone benefits from the different perspectives that people bring to the class."

Those interested in learning more about distance education at UWP can visit the web site (www.uwplatt.edu/disted) for a complete list of degree programs and available courses. You can also call 608-342-1468 or toll-free 800-362-5460 to request an informational packet about UWP distance education.

"It's certainly something to look into, especially if you need flexibility," McNeill said.