Looking for Phd program

Hello,

Just a little about myself, I currently live and work in San Diego CA. I recently completed my Masters from Boston University (MS in Computer Information Systems). I have a BS from UOP. I was fresh out of the US Marine Corps, and didn't know much about academics at all. During my transition out of the Corps., we were heavily recruited by University of Phoenix. I didn't know much about the school or anything (academic) at the time, and it sounded like a sweet gig. I completed my BS there, to realize that UOP isn't the best school. I don't think it's a bad school, but probably not what I would have went with if I were more educated about school reputation, etc.

After learning more I knew that I wanted to get my masters degree from a reputable school. As a result, I got my MS from Boston University (which from what I know, it is universally accepted as a legitimate/ good school).

Someone recently recommended Claremont Graduate School, which offers a Phd in Information Systems and Technology PhD | CISAT

I don't know a lot about the school, other than them being WASC accredited. I am hoping for some insight on the school, is it a good school, it is universally recognized as a legitimate school, are their any limitations I will face with a Phd from that institution?

I am a long time lurker on this site, and have gained a lot of valuable insight from the members here. Any omissions from my post are unintentional, and I am seeking genuine answers from those who are familiar with CGU.

Thank you.

 

I would like to obtain a Phd for a couple reasons. One is to accomplish the highest level of academic achievement. I feel like I have a bit of unfinished business after completing my MS. Also, I would enjoy the prestige of having a Phd. In addition, I think it could possibly make me more marketable for high level executive positions at a fortune 500 company. I know a Phd isn't a requirement, but I think that if two candidates are equal in all other areas, one with a higher level or formal education would win the position.

I would also like to teach as an adjunct professor on the side for supplemental income.

Therefore, a reputable school that is universally recognized as legitimate is very important to me.

 

Claremont Graduate University's program is not distance learning nor limited residency, and the commute between San Diego to Claremont Graduate University's campus is quite a drive. There are other schools you might want to consider.

- Indiana State University's Ph.D in Technology Management (Some residencies)
- Nova Southeastern University's Ph.D in Information Systems or Information Assurance (Limited Residencies)
- Columbia University's Doctor of Engineering Science in Computer Science (Research phase needs to be on campus)
- If you are interested in oversea, then University of Leicester's Ph.D in Management with specialize in Information Technology (Researched Based)

Others include: Capitol Technology University, Capella University, and Walden University (however Capella and Walden are exclusive online schools).

Honorable mention: Colorado State University's Ph.D in System Management
George Washington University's Ph.D and Doctor of Engineering in Engineering Management

 

Hello @Tekman, thank you for the post, Semper Fi!

You are correct in stating that Claremont is quite a drive. I mapped it out, it's about 115 miles each way (about 2-2.5 hours depending on traffic). However, from speaking to their admissions classes only run once a week from 4-7pm, and Sat morning. I would not be able to go full time since I work full time, so for me that would mean making that trek once, or maybe twice a week max. It's not ideal, but I could definitely swing it and leave work early on those days. They also said that they have some independent study options which would relieve some of the commute.

Do you know anything about the university? I hadn't even heard of it until someone at work mentioned it to me. I would like to know what the general perception of the school is if you have an idea.

I am also considering the program at Indiana State. I spoke to one of their chairs and had a good conversation about the program. The only thing I'm unsure of is their annual residency requirement (I think it's two weeks). I could probably swing it, but it would be pretty difficult. Other than that, I was also turned off by having to apply to all of the 4-5 schools in the consortium separately, pay different tuition rates, etc. Just seems overly complicated. Not to mention, Claremont is willing to offer me a GRE waiver due to my Masters at BU and over 10 years of work experience in the field. Not really that pumped to have to prepare and sit for the GRE unless absolutely necessary.

 

russogd3, Semper Fi!

If that is the case, I would recommend you Claremont Graduate University's Ph.D in Information Systems and Technology. I looked into the program back in 2011, when I was not married and planed to move back to Southern California to pursue my Ph.D. However, I was not a fan of GRE exam. Let me know if they allow independent study option, I would like to join. Right now, I am a single dad with two young children...I have to give up my program at Nova Southeastern University because of two residencies per semester.

Claremont Graduate University is almost 100 years old research academic institution; and it is part of Clarement Colleges include well known undergraduate colleges include Pomona College, Claremont McKenna College, Harvery Mudd College, Scripps College, and Pitzer College. They are on the top 36 liberal arts school in the nation.

RANKING: National Liberal Arts College Rankings | Top Liberal Arts Colleges | US News Best Colleges

Claremont Colleges: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claremont_Colleges

Also Claremont Graduate University is ranking number #132 in graduate school in the nation.
URL: Best Education School Rankings | Education Program Rankings | US News

 

I could not imagine travelling from San Diego to Claremont every week in order to do a degree, much less a PhD. But it is a great school and your PhD from there would cause no problems.

There is a nearly perfect correlation between availability of a degree and the issuing school's reputation. This needs to be adjusted somewhat to account for one's geographic area.

If legitimacy is the issue, consider doing a professional doctorate instead of a PhD. They're much more available by distance learning (although the PhD can be earned by DL at many schools). Also, if I read it correctly, you're a federal employee? If so, consider doing a degree at a DEAC-accredited school. It won't have as much utility in higher education circles, but it will do just fine in helping your career.