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U. of Phoenix Master of Information Systems with a Cyber Security Certification | Advice, please!?

Greetings!

I have both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice; however, I am looking to expand my career options by pursuing a degree in Information Technology. I contacted the University of Phoenix to inquire about an IT degree at the Associates level but was told that I qualify for the Masters level degree program.

I finished the application and him set to begin classes on January 22; however, I am having some very serious doubts. The program would cost me over $30,000 and nearly 2 years of my life. My question is simple: would an education at the University of Phoenix REALLY be worth this investment?

Additionally, as I have received no formal education in information technology for information systems, would it be wise to jump right into a graduate-level Information Systems program?

I am self-taught and have been working in the repair, maintenance, configuration, etc. of computers for over 15 years, but as I have never gotten any certifications or degrees in IT, my applications for IT-related jobs usually do not net me any results. Any advice on whether a Phoenix degree would be worth it or is a waste of time and money would be greatly appreciated.

Much thanks in advance!

3 Answers

Relevance
  • 2 years ago

    I have qualms about your case. From what you've said, I don't see how you can possibly have the prerequisites for entering a Masters in IT degree.

    I have to believe you'd be required to take prerequisite courses at the undergrad level in IT before you even start the Masters courses. And that will add even more time and expense to the $30K and two years you cite.

    As to Phoenix, it is a for profit university. Which means they are prone to keep you in their school as long as you pay your bills. Never mind your academic standings, just pay your bills.

    Which means you have a good chance of getting that MS degree but not in two years. And that of course lowers the academic rating of the university itself...they are called diploma mills.

  • 2 years ago

    Get the certifications. They are more relevant to what you want to do. Master of Puppet's answer is the best one you will see.

  • ?
    Lv 7
    2 years ago

    Avoid it like the plague. UoP is a for-profit school that only cares about your money rather than your education. Sure, you might learn a lot in the courses you take, but as you see, it is extremely expensive. Plus, the courses/credits don't transfer to any regular college/university.

    You should be able to pass the A+ test without much problem since you say you have a lot of experience working with computers and fixing them. How good are you computer networking skills? If you're interested in computer networking, consider getting the CCENT certification. It'll be tough and comprehensive, but it can really help.

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