Master of Public Administration (MPA) '01
President and founder, Kelly Leadership Group, LLC
Currently seeking Ph.D. in public service leadership
“I attended graduate school to enhance my understanding of what I learned during my undergraduate studies. It’s not enough to simply have information and recite key concepts. I turned to graduate school to help me learn how to apply the information and concepts in order to become a better leader.
“I chose UW Oshkosh for two simple reasons: quality and affordability. UWO is an incredible institution that provides arguably the same or higher-caliber curriculum as much higher-priced schools.
“A graduate degree is a measurable sign of your commitment to growth and leadership. On a personal level, the graduate degree boosted my confidence in believing I can accomplish anything I put my heart and mind to. On a professional level, it propelled my career on a fast track to more responsibility, resulting in a greater leadership capacity.”
Bachelor of Science in physics (secondary education) ‘07
Pursuing a Master of Science in Education (MSE) in curriculum and instruction
Secondary science education (physics emphasis)
Physics and math teacher, New Berlin West High School
“I’ve always valued learning new things. As a result, I knew that receiving my bachelor’s degree wasn’t the end of my academic journey. In order to succeed in my career and be the best teacher I can be for my students, I needed to continue to grow as an educator. Pursuing a graduate degree was a natural step.
“I decided to return to UW Oshkosh for graduate school because of my familiarity with the campus, its programs and the highly skilled faculty and staff. Tailored to provide meaningful instruction to working professionals, UWO’s unique program in physics education fit my needs perfectly.
“My graduate courses have had small class sizes, allowing me to work closely with my instructors. I’ve also had the opportunity to work collaboratively with professionals in my field, providing invaluable networking opportunities.”
Master of Business Administration (MBA) ’06
Marketing and strategy manager, specialty papers
NewPage Corporation
“To be successful in today’s global business environment, a graduate degree is essential. UW Oshkosh’s MBA program is offered in a format that caters to the specialized needs of working professionals. Challenging course work, a thorough review of current business theories, and a peer group comprised of diverse and experienced professionals provide a rich classroom experience.
“The analytical and critical thinking skills I’ve acquired through UW Oshkosh’s MBA program have helped me develop my business acumen and provided me with the confidence to tackle difficult business issues. The master’s degree has opened up a clear path for career advancement.
“I recommend UW Oshkosh’s MBA program to any business professional who is willing to work hard, knowing that the end result is a rewarding experience that continues to deliver beyond graduation day.”
Master of Public Administration (MPA) '01
President/CEO, Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
Serves on the UW System Board of Regents
“Before I decided to pursue graduate studies, I had been out of school and in the workforce for 15 years. I felt like I needed to sharpen my skills and knew that a master’s degree would open up new doors for me. The timing was right.
“I was drawn to UW Oshkosh because of its reputation, program offerings and convenience. Not only did UW Oshkosh have the program that I was seeking, but it just so happened to be in my backyard.
“The instructors were great — accessible, reasonable and receptive to feedback. With classes on Saturdays, the MPA program was completely workable for someone with a full-time job and family responsibilities. Some of my classmates drove up to three hours for class!”
Nursing Professor Emeritus
Ph.D., FNP-BC, AHNC, CMT
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
In addition to its legacy of awarding the Master of Science in Nursing, UW Oshkosh recently began offering the institution’s first doctoral program in its 138-year history. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is a terminal degree for those in the nursing field.
According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the nursing profession is moving toward the professional doctorate, just as other health professions have done. Therefore, a doctorate for advanced nursing practice in the areas of advanced practice, including NP, CNS, CRNM, CRNA, is recommended. The DNP provides educational and advanced nursing practice clinical opportunities as well as theory content in such areas as population health, epidemiology, leadership, information technology and systems thinking.
“The DNP will prepare nurses to practice in the ever-changing healthcare environment and to play a major role in influencing the healthcare system.”
Bachelor of Science in microbiology ‘09
Pursuing a Master of Science in microbiology
President, Biology/Microbiology Club
Graduate assistant, biology/microbiology department
“I decided to pursue graduate school knowing that a master’s degree would increase my chances of acquiring jobs in my field. Also, I wanted to further my education for the sake of learning and acquiring new skills.
“The main reason I chose UW Oshkosh for my graduate studies was because of the positive experience I had with faculty as an undergraduate. The faculty members I have encountered at UWO are caring, compassionate and dedicated to their students.”
Master of Science in Educational Leadership ‘03
Master of Science in Education (MSE) in reading education '10
Reading and math support teacher, Wrightstown Elementary School
“I recognized a long time ago that I am a lifelong learner. UW Oshkosh's program balances the instruction of skills and use of technological tools to provide an educational experience that enables its graduates to be successful teachers and leaders.
“Throughout the four years spent in the reading program, I have encountered knowledgeable faculty members who challenge and encourage me and provide meaningful learning opportunities that can be used immediately in classrooms.
“UW Oshkosh's accreditation with the International Reading Association and strong reputation within the Department of Public Instruction was also important. The combination of face-to-face and online classes also allowed for increased flexibility in my schedule.”
