COURSE SCHEDULE
Technology Leadership
Christopher's Career
B.S.
In the Know Insights from Educators Emily & Ethan
Christopher Toppin
Technology Leadership
Christopher's Career
Christopher Toppin ’17 plays a pivotal role at Mainstay Technologies, a company that provides IT services and cybersecurity solutions to businesses across New England. He recently stepped into the role of Chief Service Officer, where he oversees teams responsible for technical support, system administration, and client IT management. Christopher’s excitement about the possibilities of technology has been key to his successful career. He also finds mentoring others and encouraging their professional development to be the best part of his work. But his fascination with technology was ignited much earlier in his life.
“It was Christmas Eve in 1987, and I looked under the tree to see I’d received a Tandy 1000 home computer! I was in third grade and beyond excited. I was on that thing 10-12 hours a day during school break. It sparked my curiosity and an endless enthusiasm.”
Christopher's journey is a testament to how a single moment of inspiration can set the trajectory for a lifelong passion. But his path to this role wasn’t a straight line – it was shaped by a setback, the support of loved ones, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Like many traditional students who step into college without a clear sense of purpose, Christopher’s first attempt at higher education didn’t go as planned. Encouraged by devoted parents, he enrolled in college right after high school. However, Christopher realized that he was not ready. He struggled academically and dropped out after his first year, taking a job in retail.
“I simply wasn’t mature enough. I didn’t know what I wanted long term and didn’t yet have the vision of my future. Several years later, with more life experience and clearer goals, I returned to college.”
This time, he was determined to succeed and completed his associate degree in computer information systems at NHTI, Concord’s Community College. With a renewed sense of purpose, he graduated and transitioned from his retail job into an entry-level IT role as a helpdesk
technician. The role built upon his customer service skills from retail, coursework, and the Microsoft Certified Professional certificate he earned.
“From my earliest professional experience, I learned that communication and customer service skills are critical. Being able to address customer issues with humility, and in a confident and reassuring way, is what can set you apart in IT.”
The Decision to Finish
After a decade of experience in IT, Christopher realized that if he wanted to move into leadership, he needed to build on his education. He enrolled at Granite State College (now UNH College of Professional Studies), balancing work, marriage, two young children, and classes.
“I wanted to create opportunities for others who shared my passion for IT, but more importantly, I wanted my kids to see the effort I was putting into bettering myself. I wanted them to see me graduate.”
Completing his B.S. Information Technology was a gamechanger. The leadership courses he took helped him refine his management approach. He recalls being particularly inspired by an assigned book, Good to Great by Jim Collins. Concepts like “Level 5 Leadership” truly resonated with him. Interestingly, years later, in conversations with executives at Mainstay, he discovered that the company embraced the principles outlined in the book. This alignment in values played a key role in Christopher’s transition to leadership. Much like Collins’ “Flywheel Effect” principle which says that consistent effort and disciplined actions eventually lead to
breakthrough results, Christopher was building his capabilities and being rewarded with opportunity.
“Completing my bachelor’s helped me move from a successful individual contributor to someone who could lead teams and think strategically to support growth and success.”
Commitment to Family and Growth
As invested as Christopher is in his professional life, family remains his top priority. Whether playing video games with his youngest son, cosplaying with his oldest son, or hiking and watching movies with his wife Mandy, he values shared experiences and family connectedness. For adult students considering a return to school, he advises to take it one step at a time.
“Being home with my family most evenings and not missing special moments matters. The online courses offered me flexibility. I remember getting up early on Saturday mornings and just doing as much as I could before our day really got started. It's okay to go at a pace that fits your life.”
Looking Ahead
With a grandfather still working at 92, Christopher sees professional fulfillment as a lifelong journey—one that’s shaped by continuous learning, adaptability, and the relationships he builds along the way. His story is a testament to the power of persistence, finding balance, staying curious, and proving that success isn’t about a perfect start. It’s about the willingness to keep growing.
Getting to Know
Holly Bross Education Faculty Center for Educator Preparation
Education is a field driven by passion, dedication, and a deep desire to make a difference in students' lives. Holly Bross, an education faculty member, embodies these qualities, bringing her experience and enthusiasm to support our students and education faculty. With a background in elementary education and a commitment to preparing future teachers, Holly shares insights into her journey, the challenges and joys of teaching, and the impact of flexible learning options for today’s educators.
Faculty Spotlight Q&A
What attracted you to pursue a career in education?
Having the ability to help people really attracted me to pursue a career in education. I come from a family of educators, so I saw from a young age the impact a teacher can have. The thing I love most about the field is watching the lightbulb go off in a student’s head at the exact moment of “I got it!” Knowing you played a role in that success is very special!
What
was your college experience like?
I’m proud to say that I was the first in my family to attend college, and I am the only one who holds a master’s degree. I went to Keene State College for my undergraduate degree in elementary education and then completed my master's in educational studies at Rivier University. I followed the traditional pathway. Looking back, I wish I’d had more flexible options available to me. I am excited knowing the next generation – including my own children – will be able to find a pathway that’s best for them!
How can the flexibility of online learning benefit a teacher candidate?
The flexibility of online learning really benefits teacher candidates because it opens doors that would otherwise be closed for them. Our teacher candidates can earn clinical hours while employed in their districts, and they complete their coursework at night and on the weekends. It’s pretty amazing to see how UNH CPS students are applying their learning in real time.
What advice do you have for someone who wants to start their career as a teacher?
Find the joy in each day. Some days will be challenging, but it’s important to stay in a positive mindset and reflect on the impact you are having. I would recommend journaling after each day and then spending some time at the end of the school year looking back and reflecting on all that you have accomplished!
Welcome to Fall Semester
We're Here to Help
The anticipation of starting or returning to college is exciting! Of course, it also comes with many questions. Whether you seek career guidance, registration support, financial aid, or academic advising, our team will be available by chat, phone, via Zoom, or email.
Chat Live | Submit a Question cps.unh.edu/online
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Academic Calendar for Terms 1 and 2
Our academic calendar contains important dates related to course registration, financial aid, tuition payment, as well as various academic or college-wide deadlines.
• April 14 (Mon.)
Registration begins for graduate and PBTC studentsRegister online or by phone
• April 21 (Mon.)
Registration begins for undergraduate and non-degree seeking students - Register online or by phone
• July 21 (Mon.)
Deadline to submit a request for a course not on the schedule
• July 31 (Thu.)
SAP appeal deadline for term reentry
• August 1 (Fri.)
Preferred Financial Aid submission date for Fall Terms 1 and 2
• August 13 (Wed.)
Tuition and fees payments due no later than 12 p.m. (ET) for all courses beginning the week of August 25, 2025. This includes payment arrangements, such as financial aid. Immediate payment is required in order to register for courses after this deadline.
• August 25-29 (Mon.-Fri.)
▪ First week of Fall Term 1 and full semester courses
• August 29 (Fri.)
Last day to add Fall Term 1 courses
• September 1 (Mon.)
Labor Day - University Holiday
• September 5 (Fri.)
Last day to add full semester courses
• September 5 (Fri.)
Last day to drop Fall Term 1 courses
• September 19 (Fri.)
Last day to withdraw from Fall Term 1 courses
• October 13-17 (Mon.-Fri.)
Last week of Fall Term 1 courses
• October 15 (Wed.)
Tuition and fees payments due no later than 12 p.m. (ET) for all courses beginning the week of October 27, 2025. This includes payment arrangements, such as financial aid. Immediate payment is required in order to register for courses after this deadline.
• October 24 (Fri.)
Last day to withdraw from full semester course with a W on the transcript.
• October 27 - 31 (Mon.-Fri.)
▪ First week of Fall Term 2 courses
• October 31 (Fri.)
Last day to add Fall Term 2 courses
• November 7 (Fri.)
Last day to drop Fall Term 2 courses
• November 21 (Fri.)
Last day to withdraw from Fall Term 2 courses
• December 8 (Mon.)
Last day of class for full semester courses
• December 15-19 (Mon.-Fri.)
Last week of Fall Term 2 courses
Online Programs
100% Online, Accredited and Affordable
Focused exclusively on adult students, we have been consistently recognized for our long-term investment in designing and scaling student services, technologies, curricula, and instructor training to support student success. We are top ranked in New Hampshire for "Best Online Bachelor's Programs" and nationally recognized as "Military Friendly®" and among the "Best Online Bachelor's for Veterans" by U.S. News and World Report.
Undergraduate Programs and Minors
Associate
• A.S. Behavioral Science (7 Options)
• A.S. Business (8 Options)
• A.S. Communication Sciences and Disorders
• A.A. General Studies
• A.S. Early Childhood Education
Bachelor’s
• B.S. Accounting and Finance
• B.S. Applied Psychology (10 Options)
• B.S. Business Management (11 Options)
• B.S. Computer Information Technology (4 Options)
• B.S. Early Childhood Education
• B.S. Criminal Justice
• B.S. Digital Communication Design (2 Options)
• B.S. Health and Wellness
• B.S. Health Care Management
• B.A. Historical Studies
• B.S. Human Resource Management
• B.S. Human Services (7 Options)
• B.A. Individualized Studies (1 Option)
• B.S. Individualized Studies (6 Options)
• B.S. Marketing
• B.S. Operations, Supply Chain, and Logistics Management
• B.S. Professional Communication (3 Options)
• B.S. Public Administration
• B.S. Technology Management
Bachelor’s Completion Degrees
These options require an earned associate degree in a related field, maximizing your transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree.
• B.S. Allied Health Leadership
• B.S. Applied Studies Education and Training
• B.S. Applied Studies Management
• B.S. Fire Service Administration
• Nursing (RN to BSN)
Note: Professional licensure, certification, or training may serve as a foundation to these degrees, upon approval by Academic Affairs.
Minors
• Accounting
• Addictions Studies
• Adult Learning and Development
• Applied Psychology
• Business and Strategic Communication
• Computer Information Technology
• Counseling Foundations
• Court Advocacy
• Criminal Justice
• Data Analytics
• Digital Marketing
• Early Childhood Education
• Education Advocacy
• Emergency Management Strategy and Planning
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Family Studies
• Finance
• Graphic Design
• Health Care Management
• Historical Studies
• Human Resource Management
• Human Services
• Interpersonal and Organizational Communication
• Leadership, Change, and Social Responsibility
• Management
• Nonprofit Management
• Operations, Supply Chain, and Logistics Management
• Organization and Business Administration
• Organizational Psychology
• Public Administration and Policy
• Visual Communication and Social Media
• Wellness and Prevention
• Writing for Visual Media
Accelerated Master's Programs
Current bachelor's students may be eligible to earn dual credit toward a master's degree—saving time and money by completing both programs faster. Talk to your advisor for details and applicable programs.
Online Programs
Graduate Programs and Certificates
Master’s
• M.S. Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management
• M.S. Health Care Management
• M.S. Human Services Administration
• M.S. Instruction and Leadership (Requires bachelor's degree and active teaching license.)
• M.S. Leadership
• NEW! M.S. Leadership: Information Technology Management
• NEW! M.S. Leadership: Human Resource and Organization Development
• M.S. National Security Intelligence Analysis
• M.S. Project Management
• MSN Health Care Leadership
Teacher Licensure
Bachelor’s With Teacher Certification
We offer four NH Department of Education-approved bachelor’s degrees with a selection of teacher certification options.
Options:
B.S. in English Language Arts
Certification options include:
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
• Elementary Education and General Special Education
• General Special Education
B.S. in Math Studies
Certification options include:
• Elementary Education and General Special Education
• General Special Education
• Mathematics, Middle Level
• Mathematics, Middle Level and General Special Education
• Mathematics, Upper Level
B.S. in Social Studies
Certification options include:
• Elementary Education and General Special Education
• General Special Education
B.S. in Early Childhood Education
Certification options include:
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
Graduate Certificates
These programs allow you to specialize your knowledge through a shorter, focused sequence of courses. The credits earned in our certificate programs can also be applied toward their corresponding master’s programs, allowing you to earn a certificate on the way to a degree.
• Health Care Management
• Human Services Administration
• Nonprofit Leadership
• Operations Management
• Project Management
For a complete listing of all UNH online graduate programs, visit online.unh.edu/academics
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certifications:
For those with a bachelor’s degree seeking initial or an additional certification.
Initial Certifications
• General Special Education
• General Special Education and Elementary Education
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
• Life Sciences, Upper Level
• Mathematics, Middle Level
• Mathematics, Upper Level
Additional Certifications
• Elementary Education
• General Special Education
• Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education
• Life Sciences, Upper Level
• Mathematics, Middle Level
• Mathematics, Upper Level
• Reading and Writing Teacher*
• Reading and Writing Specialist*
• Digital Learning Specialist
Advanced Endorsements:
For certified special education teachers.
• Learning Disabilities (LD)
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)
• Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities (EBD)
Your Way
Get Oriented
Plan Out Your Courses
We are dedicated to supporting you as you complete your program. Our knowledgeable and caring advisors assist students as they transition to our learning environment. They also help students identify goals and develop strategies to achieve them.
Schedule an Advising Appointment:
Call: 1-855-472-4255 or Chat Live at: cps.unh.edu/online
Get the Latest Course Updates
The details included in the printed and digital version of this course schedule are helpful for planning and accurate as of the date of publishing. For the most up-to-date course information, visit our Course Search Database. Search for a UNH CPS course by selecting the CPS Online "campus" and entering Course Subject & Number (Ex: MGMT 611) or Title (Ex: Money and Banking). For the National Security Intelligence Analysis (NSIA) and Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management (CPRM) online courses, select the Manchester "campus".
Visit: courses.unh.edu
College Catalog
The College Catalog contains helpful information such as course descriptions, prerequisites, restrictions, and policy information.
Visit: catalog.unh.edu
Join the Conversation
Stay connected with our online student community through our social media channels and blog.
Social Media
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On the Web
Visit: cps.unh.edu/online
Current Student Resources: cps.unh.edu/current-students
Student Success Blog
Visit: cps.unh.edu/blog
4 1-855-472-4255 | cps.unh.edu/online
Orientations
Whether you’re starting college for the first time or returning to finish your degree, attending an orientation gives you a valuable introduction to UNH CPS that will help you feel prepared as a student.
There are two essential orientations:
• New Student Orientation
Overview of the resources and support available to you as a student, plus success tips for your first term.
• Canvas Orientation
Learn how to navigate and participate in your online courses in Canvas, the university's learning management system.
Orientations are available on-demand and via live webinars.
View Details & Dates: cps.unh.edu/orientation
Online Info Sessions
One of the best ways to understand if a program is right for you is to hear firsthand from program directors in your field of interest.
Whether you’re considering enrolling next term or next year, join us to learn more about the unique values of UNH College of Professional Studies, the admissions process, points of entry, and details about programs of study.
Reserve Your Spot: cps.unh.edu/information-sessions
Undergraduate Courses
Undergraduate Courses
Undergraduate Courses
Undergraduate Courses
Undergraduate Courses
Fast-Track Your Education With an Accelerated Master’s Program!
Advance Your Career With an Affordable Graduate Certificate
• Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management
Master's Degree
Eligible if enrolled in any UNH undergraduate program
• Health Care Management
Choose from a Master's Degree or Graduate Certificate Eligible if enrolled in:
• B.S. Allied Health Leadership
• B.S. Health Care Management
• Human Services Administration
Choose from a Master's Degree or Graduate Certificate
Eligible if enrolled in B.S. Human Services
• Instruction and Leadership
Master's Degree
Eligible if enrolled in any UNH CPS online teacher licensure program.
• Leadership Master's Degree
Eligible if enrolled in:
• B.S. Applied Studies (Management)
• B.S. Public Administration
• B.S. Business Management with options in:
• Leadership
• Change and Social Responsibility
• Nonprofit Management
If you’re nearing the 90-credit mark in your bachelor’s degree, now might be the perfect time to think about earning a master’s degree faster. With our online Accelerated Master’s Programs, you can complete both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in less time and at a lower cost. Take
• NEW! Leadership: Human Resource and Organization Development Master's Degree
Eligible if enrolled in:
• B.S. Human Resource Management
• B.S. Applied Studies: Management
• B.S. Business Management
• NEW! Leadership: Information Technology Management Master's Degree
Eligible if enrolled in:
• B.S. Technology Management
• National Security Intelligence Analysis Master's Degree
Eligible if enrolled in any UNH undergraduate program
• Project Management
Choose from a Master's Degree or Graduate Certificate
Eligible if enrolled in:
• B.S. Business Management: Project Management
Graduate Courses
Graduate Courses
Note: Registration hold - advisor approval required
5 Essential Resources to Help You Plan Your Career
While your academic advisor and your career and professional success director are always there to guide you along your academic journey, you should also take full advantage of career technology tools for career planning.
Awato
Provides assessments to help you plan for your career goals. Using Awato, you can explore our degree program options and careers that match your interests.
Handshake
Looking for an opportunity that opens the door to a fulfilling career? Handshake is an internship and job search site for college students at all stages of their lives. It’s unique because the jobs you see are posted by employers actively recruiting from our college community.
Focus 2
A career planning tool that allows students to explore careers based on degree, assess career-relevant skills and abilities, and create a road map of education achievements and career development. Explore the assessments which match your interests and skills to to related degrees and careers!
StandOut
Prepare for your next interview with this innovative mock video interviewing platform designed to enhance your interviewing skills with AI feedback! It has thousands of practice interview questions sourced directly from employers.
LinkedIn Learning
Access engaging personal development courses built for your interests. Discover a world-class library of over 16,000 expertly-produced and consistently updated courses across seven languages.
Awato is a fun and beneficial planning tool that helps us understand how your interests and past employment experience best match with a major at UNH. Together, we can get you on the right path for your career goals.
- Keri Bresaw, Academic Advisor
On some job search sites, you may feel like your application is lost in the shuffle. But on Handshake, employers are looking for students with your experience and interests.
- Nicole Horne, Senior Director of Advising & Student Engagement
More and more employers are using video interviews as their first interview method, so practice, practice, practice to be prepared!
- Jennie Vanderhooven, M.Ed. Career Advisor & Program Specialist
LinkedIn Learning is an incredible resource that offers a massive variety of courses - there's something for everyone.
- Maggie Wells, CPS Career & Professional Success Director
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Licensure Programs
The following courses are open to students admitted to the Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Licensure Program or by permission of the Center for Educator Preparation. Additionally, these courses are open to other qualified individuals who wish to take one or more courses on a continuing professional development basis. For more information, contact the Center for Educator Preparation at 855-472-4255.
Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Licensure Programs
Life Sciences: Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification
Talented individuals with a passion for science and a desire to teach now have a cost-effective and online path for teacher certification.
• Fully online, virtual lab format
• In-field clinical experiences and observations
• Provides flexibility to work full time in an educational setting as a paraprofessional or teaching assistant
• Aligned with New Hampshire Department of Education standards as well as Next Generation Science Standards
• Regionally accredited by New England Commission of Higher Education & Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
Registration Instructions
1. Review your degree planning tools through DegreeWorks to determine unmet requirements. Access your degree audit through WebCat.
2. For each course you wish to take, check prerequisites to ensure you have completed all of them. Please note that some undergraduate courses require a pre-registration skills assessment.
3. Contact your academic advisor with any questions.
To Register for Courses, Visit Us Online or Call: cps.unh.edu/register | 1-855-472-4255
UNH reserves the right to cancel, postpone, or combine class sections, limit registrations, or change instructors. We regret any errors in printing, but we accept no liability for them. Please refer to WebCat for the most updated course schedule.
Adding Courses
Students may register for 8-week courses during the official Add Period, which is one week after the course start date.
Students may drop courses during the official Drop Period, which is two weeks after the course start date.
Contact your advisor or the Registrar’s Office for assistance. For courses that do not follow the 8-week schedule, Add Period and Drop Period dates are posted on cps.unh.edu/add-drop.
Make a Payment
(See page 1 for payment schedule)
If a third party (such as an employer or outside agency) has agreed to pay all or part of your course charges, you must provide a written billing authorization to the Student Accounts Office. The billing authorization must be on official letterhead and include the billable amount. No extensions or deferments will be granted if you will be reimbursed for courses after the completion of a term. Payment must be made directly to UNH upon receipt of an invoice. Payment not contingent upon grade. Cash will not be accepted.
Contact the Student Accounts: 603-513-1330 | 855-472-4255 option #4 studentaccounts.cps@unh.edu
Monthly Payment Option
When enrollment is available, Payment Plan links will appear on the Account View page in Webcat. The payment plan carries an enrollment fee of $60 for each semester you enroll in the plan.
Tuition and Fees
Course charges, fees, and regulations are subject to approval by the University System Board of Trustees and can change without prior notice. For Tuition Updates, Check: cps.unh.edu/tuition (Effective Fall 2025, the UNH CPS Online tuition rate is set regardless of state of residency.)
Undergraduate Tuition Rate (Includes PBTC Programs):
• $330 per credit hour
Graduate Tuition Rate (Includes Graduate Certificates):
• $640 per credit hour*
*M.S. National Security Intelligence Analysis: $800 per credit hour
Fees:
• Registration Fee: $48
• Academic Services Fee: $48
• Clinical Course Mentoring Fee: $75 per credit hour
• Prior Learning Assessment Fee: $350
Some courses, including those associated with the CPRM and NSIA master's degree programs, have materials or other fees. To learn more, visit: manchester.unh.edu/admissions/tuition-costs
To Order Textbooks
Students are responsible for purchasing textbooks and materials. Textbooks are an additional expense. Find detailed information about required books, including ISBN, online.
Visit: unh.bncollege.com
1. Click on tab, "Course Materials & Textbooks"
2. Select "Find Course Materials"
3. Choose Campus: "University of New Hampshire – CPS Online"
4. Fill in your course information
5. Click: "Retrieve Materials" button
Financial Aid
Federal, State, and/or Institutional Financial Aid is available to all qualifying degree seeking students, as well as eligible postbaccalaureate and graduate students, to assist with the cost of their education. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), be admitted to an eligible program, and be attending at least half-time (undergraduate and postbaccalaureate students: 6 credits/semester; graduate students: 5 credits/semester) in order to receive aid.
Contact the Office of Financial Aid at: 603-513-1392 | 855-472-4255 option #3 | financialaid.cps@unh.edu
Learn More, Visit: cps.unh.edu/tuition-aid
1-855-472-4255 | cps.unh.edu/online
Top Ranked and Trusted by Military Students and Spouses
The University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies is top ranked in New Hampshire by U.S. News & World Report for "Best Online Bachelor's Programs" and "Best Online Bachelor's for Veterans." We're proud to share that we've once again earned the designation as a 2024-2025 Military Friendly™ School.
Our commitment to being Military-Friendly™ is more than a catch phrase. More than 60% of our financial aid budget is devoted to supporting military students and we offer a wide range of resources and benefits.
Credit for Your Training
We award the maximum credit for your military training based on American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations and guarantee at least 64 credits to transfer from CCAF. We also offer other options that let you demonstrate college-level learning, such as workplace training and equivalency tests (DANTES, CLEP).
Active Duty Tuition Discount
We cap our undergraduate tuition rate at $250/credit so it matches the DoD Tuition Assistance (TA) Program. Graduate students receive a 15% discount on their cost per credit.
Aligned with Community College of the Airforce (CCAF)
We are partners with the CCAF’s GEM and AU-ABC programs to help enlisted Airmen fulfill general education requirements online and transition to a bachelor’s degree.
Minimal Out-of-Pocket Expense
Maximize your military education benefits with our affordable tuition and fees. Through our Active Duty Tuition Discount and participation in the Post 9/11 Yellow Ribbon program, we’re committed to supporting those who served regardless of residency status.
Savings for Military Spouses
We offer a 15% tuition discount to spouses of Active Duty, National Guard, and Reservist servicemembers admitted to an undergraduate or graduate degree or certificate program.
“ I not only wanted a school that had my program, but I also wanted a college that was a good fit for servicemembers. The instructors understand what we go through and make sure that we can be successful in class. ”
— Mia Tran ‘22
B.S. Technology Management
U.S. Air Force Reservist
Online Master’s Degree Programs
M.S. Leadership: Information
Technology Management
Innovate, Strategize, Succeed
Prepare to lead at the intersection of technology and business. This program blends technical expertise with strategic leadership and decision-making skills, equipping you to guide organizations through data management, cybersecurity, software development, and system integration challenges. You'll learn to drive innovation by leveraging emerging technologies to solve complex business problems and foster collaboration across departments.
Facutly Insight:
Ron Danault, UNH CPS Director of Technology Programs
"In today’s tech industry, leadership is about driving change and making strategic decisions. By blending leadership and IT expertise, this program prepares professionals to bridge the gap between technology and business. If you’re ready to step up and make an impact, this program will get you there."
Career Outcomes:
Graduates will be prepared for leadership roles such as IT director, technology project manager, cybersecurity manager, and chief information officer.
M.S. Leadership: Human Resource and Organization Development
Strengthen Organizations and Lead With Purpose
Advance your career with the skills to design, implement, and align strategic HR practices that drive organizational success. This program builds expertise in leadership while focusing on talent management, staffing, performance development, and HR organizational strategy. Prepare to support people and processes in ways that strengthen both workplace culture and business outcomes.
Industry Alignment:
Curriculum Aligned With the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM)
Coursework is designed around SHRM competencies, ensuring you gain essential skills and expertise aligned with the latest practices, trends, and knowledge needed to navigate today’s evolving HR landscape.
Career Outcomes:
Graduates will be prepared for roles such as HR director, talent development manager, organizational development manager, and employee experience leader.
In the Know Insights From Educators Emily & Ethan
The Teaching Journey
Becoming a licensed teacher is a fantastic way to make a real difference in students' lives, both in and out of the classroom. For adult students, especially those considering a career change, the journey to becoming a teacher can raise many questions. We have gathered insights from educators who are well-acquainted with our accredited, non-traditional, distancebased model. They share their advice, address common concerns, and offer encouragement for aspiring educators.
EMILY: Current UNH Student World Academy in Nashua PK-8 Substitute Teacher
ETHAN: UNH PBTC Alum Milford High School Math Teacher
On Motivation:
EMILY: Seeing kids succeed is honestly the best feeling. There’s something so rewarding about helping a student understand something and watching that light bulb go off when it finally clicks. Knowing that teachers play such a big role in shaping the next generation is really inspiring - whether it’s teaching them to be kind, helping them learn to read, solving math problems, or even fixing little things like writing their "s" the right way. It’s inspiring to know I’ve made even a
small impact. I appreciate it even more now, knowing my own teachers once did the same for me.
ETHAN: I truly enjoy helping students reach their potential within a positive learning atmosphere.
Educator Preparation Courses:
EMILY: I am constantly learning new things in my UNH classes that I can use at work right away. There is something so valuable about reading about a skill or strategy one night, and then using it with a student the next morning. I feel so lucky to have the chance to apply what I’m learning in real time. It’s such a great experience.
ETHAN: My faculty provided me with good ideas and tools to teach students material in different ways. I am able to change the way I teach the students from unit to unit because of all of the resources that UNH provided me.
Advice for Future Teachers:
EMILY: You will build confidence over time. You’ll learn so much from your colleagues, and those lessons are priceless. Be grateful for what they teach you. Mine have made me a better educator and student.
ETHAN: Trust yourself. If you’re someone who likes to interact with young people and wants to see them succeed, it would be great to have you teaching. Regardless of the challenges, the good far outweighs the bad interactions I have with students.
Balancing Work and Classwork:
EMILY: Discipline will become your best friend. It took me a couple of months, but I’ve finally found a routine that lets me juggle work, school, family, self-care, and my social life. It’s absolutely possible, you just have to stay committed! Don’t let any doubt get in the way.
ETHAN: UNH CPS does a fantastic job of providing education in a way that allows teaching candidates to manage their schoolwork. I was able to balance the demands of my job, as well as take multiple classes, because of the flexibility the program offers.
Teacher Role Models
EMILY: I was a very anxious kid growing up. Just going to school, taking tests, and field trips made me nervous. But I had teachers all through elementary, middle, and high school who were super understanding and took the time to make sure I had what I needed to succeed. Whether it was one-on-one walks, check-ins throughout the day, or just being patient and understanding, they made a huge difference. Now that I’m older, I can look back and really appreciate what they did for me. I want to be that teacher for my students now.
ETHAN: I had a teacher for Algebra in high school, who taught the material in such a way that allowed me to explore independently. He allowed me to learn math in a way that gave me the skills and confidence to continue my journey all the way to both of my degrees.
6 (Amazing) Reasons to Become a Teacher
It is easy to understand the vital importance of the teaching profession to guide, educate, and inspire the next generation; teaching is truly an indispensable career. Our educator-alumni describe finding deeply satisfying careers. As you explore the vast array of career opportunities, you may also discover that a career in education offers some unparalleled values including:
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be super motivating.
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be incredibly motivating.
Love for Learning: If you love learning, teaching is a great way to share that passion. The classroom keeps you curious and open-minded, too.
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be super motivating.
Personal Experiences: Positive experiences with your own teachers can inspire you to give back. Teachers often make a big impact on their communities, and everyone can name at least one teacher who changed their lives.
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be super motivating.
Job Stability: Teaching offers job stability and benefits, which is a big plus. There's always a need for qualified teachers, from preschool to high school, driven by factors like population growth and teacher retirement.
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be super motivating.
Work-Life Balance: Teaching can offer a better work-life balance, especially with summers off and holidays that match children's schedules or hobbies like coaching, writing, or traveling.
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be super motivating.
Diverse Opportunities: The education field has diverse opportunities, from classroom teaching to administrative roles, curriculum development, education consulting, or advocacy for educational reform.
Sense of Purpose: Teaching gives you a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. You're shaping the future and inspiring the next generation. Plus, students' enthusiasm and achievements can be super motivating.
Considering a career change to teaching can be both exciting and daunting. Be bold and take the challenge head-on. Seek out mentors who can guide you through the transition, helping you understand the necessary certifications, degrees, and other requirements. Bring your excitement and unique background to your new career and remember to have fun.
Working with students is an amazing opportunity that can be incredibly rewarding.
Individuals with previous work experience outside of education can undoubtedly succeed in teaching. Bringing your experience and knowledge to the classroom can enrich the learning environment. Use your time at UNH CPS to understand what modern education looks like, sounds like, and feels like. Develop your own teaching style while incorporating your knowledge and experience.
Photo Credit: Shingirai Moyo
Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel Manchester School District