Guy in IT needs advice & direction for respectable DL graduate program

Just some background... 26, with a BS in Computer Studies through University of Maryland's online program.. obviously RA as well as a undergrad certificate in IT Project Management - completed in 12/2006. About a quarter of it was actual in-class education, while the rest was distance learning.

Now, you may say.. what is Computer Studies? It's a liberal slant on a technical degree that required me to take courses from various technical disciplines, so I was able to use classes from networking, database administration, etc to put toward my degree. I realize it not being a traditional CompSci, IT, etc., might not make it look as established, but if I had to take a bunch of archaic technology courses I wouldn't be interested in, I would have never done it.

Anyway, I've been working in software support at the same micro-company for about 6.5 years, handling all tiers of support for highly specialized software (some SaaS). I support APIs, client/server applications, SQL Server, do some development in VB .NET.. my days can be highly technical. I just have a niche and interest in anything technology, as long as it isn't too code-heavy or obscure. However, I have traveled to customers on-site in US and Canada various times for minor consulting gigs, software training, complete software installs -- so I am am an able communicator.

I'd still like to be technical, but honestly move into more of a managerial role. If I had specialization in one area, it'd probably be working with databases, but I'm not sure its a good idea to get too focused on one area just yet.

Recently, I decided I was going to pursue a DL graduate program. I have since moved out of Maryland to a neighboring state, so the non-resident prices are extremely high. I then found Aspen U, read up on the whole NA vs. RA -- I was well... OK about the non-NA status, but the "special prices" and relatively mediocre formatting of some of the EMail communication I've had doesn't sit very well with me. I'm afraid of what an employer may think of the web site -- No offense to any students there as their programs seem reasonable.

I guess for starters, I'm looking for advice on what I should pursue. As you can probably tell, I still don't know what I really want to do with my life. To be honest, I'd like get a comfy 40ish hour a week role in some type of information management. Maybe that's in academia.. if so, I'd like to stick to RA-accreditation. I'm hoping I didn't hurt myself with the previous DL, or non-traditional degree name w/ my BS.

Also.. where? As previously stated, I'd like to stick to RA -- who knows, maybe I'd want to teach at a local comm. college later in life? I don't want the degree to be only semi-useful, regardless of what I want to do. But as also previously stated, is a no-name RA school (DL degree) going to hurt me? Also, cost is obviously an issue.

Any advice is welcomed.

 

Well, according to what you describe and your age. I don't think Aspen University is for you as you mention. I went to Aspen University once, and I dropped out. Anyway, you said you moved out of Maryland to a neighboring state. Which state you're talking about? There are good schools around the area with degree program that you're looking for.

They are not distance learning, but might fit your need.
- Georgetown University's Master of Professional Studies in Technology Management with concentration in System Design, Development, and Management
- George Washington University - Master of Science in Management Information System.

Distance Learning
- Drexel University's Master of Science in Information Systems

In your case, it would best to go for Master of Science in Technology Management with concentration in Software Development. Also, is money a factor your? If so, what is the range you are looking for?

BTW, I am currently a student at Georgetown University's Master of Professional Studies in Technology Management with specialization in Information Security.

 

Thank you for your reply. I am currently in Delaware. Time is an issue, as is money. I hold down a full-time job, am a homeowner, and do have to business travel from time to time. I much prefer DL.

Recently, my thought pattern has changed to.. the NA DL being OK and if it becomes an issue, or I want to move into academia, than maybe I go back for an RA later in life. After all, I am still very young. The question is, what degree path and what school..