Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE-Working as a special agent for the New Jersey State Commission of Investigation doesn't leave Jim Conroy with a lot of free time. So, when he decided to pursue a master's degree in criminal justice, he knew right away that his work schedule and family commitments would make attending class on a campus nearly impossible.

Determined not to let that stop him, Conroy began investigating online master's degree programs from institutions all over the country.

"I knew that an online program was the way to go for me," Conroy said. "With my hectic work schedule and having to juggle family responsibilities, I knew the flexibility of an online program would be the perfect solution."

Conroy found what he was looking for in UW-Platteville's online master of science in criminal justice program. Examining the curriculum piqued his interested, so he contacted coordinator Cheryl Banachowski-Fuller. After talking with her, Conroy said he was convinced the program was right for him. He was admitted to the program and began coursework in June 2001.

Totaling 30 credits offered entirely online, the master of science in criminal justice program is a comprehensive, highly interactive solution for professionals who want a graduate degree or are looking for skills to advance to higher-level positions in their profession. Students are able to tailor the program to fit their knowledge and skills and meet their individual career goals. This concept has served students all over the United States, like Conroy, well.

In addition to finding that the program provided useful, relevant material, Conroy was immediately impressed by the personal connections he made. He was able to work with many of the same students from one semester to the next and even met some of them face-to-face. As a result, he learned a lot from their on-the-job experiences.

"Interaction isn't the same in a traditional setting and often doesn't work" he said. "In a typical classroom you can sit back and not communicate with anyone. Online is just the opposite. You have to meet everyone and work with them on group projects; you learn where they are working. As a result you form strong relationships. It's a great networking tool." Conroy still keeps in contact with many of his classmates.

Conroy, who plans to use his new master's degree to open up the door to promotions and enable him to teach as an adjunct professor, has some advice for future online students. "Don't make the mistake of thinking that an online program is going to be easier-a cake walk," he said. "On the contrary, although it is more convenient not having to drive to campus after a long day at work, it takes a lot of self discipline." Conroy estimated he spent one to two hours per day-at least 10 to 12 hours per week-working on his courses and the thesis.

Completing two courses per semester enabled Conroy to graduate this past May. He was able to attend commencement, which meant setting foot on the UWP campus for the very first time. "It was so wonderful to see the campus, the library, the people. To know what it really looked like was exciting. I made so many great connections here and made some really close friends."

Those interested in learning more about distance education at UWP can visit the website (http://www.uwplatt.edu/disted) for a complete list of degree programs and available courses. You can also call 608-342-1468 or toll-free 800-363-5460 to request an informational packet about UWP distance education.