Would I qualify for a masters program at a reputable school?

C.Batt — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 19:07:24 -0800

Can a modestly successful software developer with a two year diploma and 11 years experience designing and developing fairly complex software systems qualify for a masters program in comp sci? I've been programming since I was 8. I have 11 years of professional experience. For the past 4 years I've been the software architect at a small tech firm where I am personally responsible for 50% (the other 50% is my counterpart's in embedded systems) of the design and development of a product/service that generates several million dollars of revenue annually. In short, I think that I'm pretty good at workin' this here computer thingamabob (but I'm no wunderkind).

Anyhow due to my personal life moving in mysterious ways, I suddenly have a lot of free time on my hands. I also might have an opportunity to cash out from said company with a (very) modest sum (revenue doesn't necessarily mean profit :'( ). I've always wanted to formalize my education - to prove to myself that I am indeed "pretty good" - but I'm debating whether or not it's worth the effort. (This isn't about earning potential, this is about personal development)

I only have an honours diploma from a two year tech school. I believe that my experience gives me the equivalent of a bachelors and I should be able to handle a masters program. Is it possible to make the jump straight to a masters - at a reputable school - without first "paying your dues"?

I've found Athabasca University here in Alberta, but I'm not sure if they'd accept me or if their program is any good (it is correspondence after all). I've heard of University of Phoenix, but that's correspondence again. I'd really like to go to the UofA(lberta), but I've heard that they're real sticklers who won't give credit for diplomas or work experience, and that's not acceptable - I could teach 100 and 200 level courses for crying out loud.

What schools could I... strike that... what schools would consider me?

We've got company

Anonymous — Thu, 08 Dec 2005 11:11:47 -0800

Not even kidding: What are some good ways to avoid being tailed after a downtown meeting with people I don't want to follow me home and find out where I live? Anyone know of good tips for shaking pursuers, either from the movies or real life?

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Would I qualify for a masters program at a reputable school?

We've got company