MPS degree programs go far beyond technical skills and theoretical knowledge. With the goal of professional success in mind, Master of Professional Studies degrees prepare students for leadership and management roles in their field. Real-world application of relevant concepts, mentorship and industry connections, and a diverse, collaborative learning environment are advantages to the MPS degree. Many students value the MPS degree over a traditional master’s degree because of the applied professional skills that it provides.
What Exactly is an MPS Degree?
The Master of Professional Studies is a master’s degree that includes industry-focused skills. These skills can be applied in the workplace, as well as concentrated study of subjects applicable to your field. MPS degree programs are designed with the demands of sought-after employers in mind. They also anticipate future industry advancements and requirements. They provide you with hands-on applied experience, which can look like research or engagement with current industry projects and data. Most programs conclude with a capstone project, highlighting applied research and specialized expertise. UMBC’s MPS degree programs offer students a customized education, with tracks and electives that contribute to their desired specialization. Finally, programs are usually part-time to fit the needs to working professionals.
Invaluable Mentorship
UMBC’s unique mentorship opportunities with experienced leaders in their field of study give students professional insight. For example, I/O Psychology MPS degree students form a mentorship relationship with Advisory Board members. Anne Harrelson, M.P.S., ’18, IO/Psychology applied to the program to move into a Human Resources career. Through the mentorship program, she connected with Wendy Merrill, Founder and Chief Rainmaker of Strategy Horse Consulting Group. Their mutually beneficial relationship encouraged professional development, as Anne was able to learn from Wendy’s many years of experience. Anne was able to put her education into practice when Wendy offered her a fellowship position.
“There are a lot of people out there that are happy to help you if you just make the connection and ask. Talk to them and learn from them and they will be willing to give you something in return. That’s the biggest lesson so far.” – Anne Harrelson, M.P.S., ’18, IO/Psychology
Many of the professors in the program hold positions in their industry. So, they can take real-world topics and apply them to their teachings. Students can then adapt this knowledge to solve problems in their jobs.
Shift or Advance Your Career
An MPS degree can help you shift into a new field entirely. It can also give you the tools and experience to move up in your current sector. Students gain comprehensive technical skills, but also communication, management, and leadership competence. In their courses, students work in teams to practice both of these aspects, and learn from their collective experiences. They gain the confidence to succeed through presenting their projects and research.
UMBC’s Master’s of Professional Studies Programs offer a flexible learning experience. Because of the evening, online, and weekend course offerings, students can continue their career growth. The programs themselves are flexible. They offer different tracks and depth courses to give professionals exactly the skills that they need to meet their goals.
Real-World Application
Courses take real-world experiences and data examples, and combine them with the textbook. Aayush Sharma, UMBC Engineering Management Alumnus, found trips to work with firms in D.C. and Baltimore highly beneficial. He participated in real projects with the Project Management Institute (PMI). And, after working in depth with organizations for about four months, Aayush and his team presented their final project.
“We’re not only seeing textbook explanations of data, but seeing real data used in real-life scenarios. Students often indicate that what they’ve learned in the classroom on Wednesday night, they actually applied in the workplace on Thursday morning. So, it’s definitely a highly-applied degree.” – Liz Ducey, Alumna, UMBC Geographic Information Systems MPS Program
Is mps data science a stem designated program? If so what is the code.
Data Science at UMBC is considered a STEM-designated program, which allows international students to take advantage of CPT/OPT. For additional questions related to CPT/OPT, you may contact our Office of International Education Services, ies@umbc.edu.You may also cross reference some information on DHS’s STEM Eligible List here: STEM Approved Majors
Greetings, I’m really interested to pursue M.P.S in Cybersecurity at UMBC.
Hello! Wonderful! Be sure to visit our cyber website and click on contact us to get started! https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/cybersecurity/
What will be entire duration of MPS cybersecurity program? can we cover this in one year?
Hi Ashish, This would be a question to ask our program coordinator. She is super helpful and can answer all of your questions! Please reach out via our contact form, and she will get back to you! We’re so happy you’re interested in this great program! https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-contact-us/
What is the duration of the MPS program?
All of our programs are different. I would suggest you check out the program page of the subject. you want to study. Each page will have information about that particular program. We appreciate your interest!