Whitney Conner: Earning a graduate degree in business while working full time

Whitney Conner is a current student in the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems program (MS CIS). He is enjoying both the online schedule as well as the opportunity to collaborate with other students in his cohort during the two weeks a year they meet on campus. He is currently employed full time and this flexible schedule is what originally attracted him to the Missouri State program.

The following story has been shared here via the Missouri State University Alumni Spotlights page.

Previously earned degree: Bachelor’s in computer science, University of Central Missouri, 2011

Why I chose Missouri State: The Master of Computer Information Systems program is designed for people working full-time in a computer-related field. The flexibility of the online schedule allows me to dedicate significant time to classwork without interrupting my professional work schedule.

My favorite course: Sourcing and Procurement. This course exposed me to how decisions are made for company-wide systems and hardware selection that would be difficult to experience at the analyst level.

How faculty help students succeed: The faculty are exceptional. The faculty I interact with are extremely pleasant and helpful. Communication while completing the registration process was exceptional and the faculty show they care about my personal success. Faculty members also actively participate in discussions, giving advice from their personal experiences. I am exposed to topics that will be a part of guiding the technology presence of an organization.

How MSU’s College of Business has helped me succeed: The program forces bigger and bolder thinking. Scenarios are introduced that require innovative thinking and ingenuity. The emphasis on developing methods for problem-solving, rather than knowing the answer to the individual problems, has helped me to become a well-rounded professional.

For more information on our MS CIS program visit our website.