Question

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by naios, Feb 22, 2009.

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  1. naios

    naios New Member

    Hi everyone. I just wanted to introduce myself, I live in Montreal and work in IT.

    Question: I have a technical degree (similar to Associates) in a 3-year Computer Science program where many of the credits are applicable to a bachelors degree. I know this since I started to do a bachelors degree a few years back and then had to stop because of career/family after completing about 20% of the courses.

    This year, I started to do an on-line certificate in Project Management to prepare for taking the PMP exam. Doing well in the courses made me think it would be a good idea to complete a bachelors on-line and therefore wouldn't have to spend alot of time commuting. During my research I noticed that I could complete a masters instead since several universities who offer on-line programs will consider your work experience (I have serveral years experience as a Technical Lead/Supervisor/PM roles + 13 years overall experience). So, it looks like I will be accepted to University of Liverpool next week as my file was recommended to the university board. So, assuming I complete my masters in a couple of years, how would employers judge my resume considering the "gaping hole" of a lack of bachelors degree? And I hope this question hasn't been asked ad nauseum on this board and if so I apologize. I intend to complete the MSc in Information Systems Management.
     
  2. Kizmet

    Kizmet Moderator

    Hi naios - In my mind, the most important part of your story is that the University of Liverpool, a reputable British university, has decided (maybe not quite yet - we're optimistic) that you are qualified to enroll in one of their Masters degree programs. It would seem that they have determined that the combination of your formal education and experience is equivalent to a Bachelors degree, the normal requirement for enrollment to a Masters program. I think you've described the situation quite well already. I'm not sure that any further explanation is needed.
     
  3. naios

    naios New Member

    Thanks Kizmet. It was also quite a bit of a struggle deciding between MBA and MSC, ISM. But what's done is done :D
     
  4. naios

    naios New Member

    Hooray. Acceptance was granted. Now the fun begins...
     
  5. Ian Anderson

    Ian Anderson Active Member

    Congratulations - please keep us informed on your progress.

    Re your "gaping hole": Several British universities grant masters degrees as first degrees (usually after four years full time study). I don't know if this applies in your case but at least it is something you can point to.
     
  6. ebbwvale

    ebbwvale Member

    I think an employer would be more interested in your performance at the graduate level than the fact you did not have an undergrad degree. Particularly if you do well. This position is quite common outside the US, particularly in the British Commonwealth Countries.

    I did it the other way around. I received my masters and then completed my undergrad degree which seemed so easy after the postgrad work. I did it to fill a gap which nobody in this country even considered existed. Probably more for my sense of satisfaction.

    If it is available, take some material from the university which indicates how they determined your suitability for the program.
     
  7. naios

    naios New Member

    Thanks guys. I am not going to even think about the hole anymore. I am going to focus my energies toward graduating with distinction from this program.

    All the people I've asked about said they really enjoy it, however the seem to work very hard (which is fine with me). My company's management are being quite encouraging and supportive with my plans.

    I will keep you guys up to date, I don't start until September but in the meantime I am working on my Project Management Courses with Villanova as I will be going for PMP certification.

    That was very interesting (and commendable) how you mention you went back to get your bachelors. I don't think my wife will go for that plan though after I finish this.
     

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