Faculty Spotlight: Kris Jones, MS Information Systems

Kris Jones has worn many hats during his time at the University of Cincinnati.

After beginning his Bearcat journey as a full-time staff member, Kris enrolled in the online Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS). He balanced completing his degree with work and family, eventually moving into the role of assistant professor and MSIS Program Director. 

With experience on both ends of the MSIS program, Kris now helps others decide if MSIS is the right degree for them. We spoke with Kris about his background, his interest in information systems, and his experience as an online student.

Kris’s path to a career in education was, in some ways, inevitable. His grandfather was the first Black president of the Princton City Board of Education, and his mother was a special education teacher and school administrator. 

“I’m a third-generation educator,” he explained. “It’s always been in my blood—being an educator and really knowing the power of what knowledge can do for you.” 

As mentioned, Kris first came to UC as a full-time staff member. He initially struggled to choose a suitable master’s degree for both his career goals and skill set. Conversations with several UC faculty members led him to an option he hadn’t considered: earning his MSIS. Once he learned more about the program’s scope, he saw how well it aligned with his interests and goals.

He became particularly interested in the MSIS coursework, which covers “web development, database design, system analysis process modeling,” and more.  

“It was just hitting all the boxes that I felt like ‘I can do these things but don’t know really how to do those things’,” he said.

Once Kris had determined his direction, he wasted no time jumping into the program. He encountered a learning curve when it came to juggling his online classes and 40-hour work weeks.

“I wasn't wanted exactly the traditional student that came right out of grad school or undergrad," Kris said. “I had a real life.” Marriage, becoming a father, and a full-time career are all major time commitments, and Kris was attempting to balance them all while pursuing his degree.  

After his child was born, Kris took nine months off from school to focus on his family. “I focused on, ‘How do I retrain myself on the lack of sleep and still working a full-time job, as well as raising a baby and being present with my family?’”

When he was ready to resume his degree, the MSIS program was glad to welcome him back. UC Online’s flexibility and individualized nature allowed him to finish his degree on his own timeline. 

“I’m proud to say it took me four years to complete the thing, and it did not really go as planned,” Kris said. “It was a whole lesson of time management. Every class that I took was making me better as a professional.”

When asked what advice he would offer to future non-traditional students at UC, Kris said: “I throw that out. What is a traditional student these days?”

Motivation and goals are also key factors in his eyes. Especially when you’re returning to school as an adult, it’s crucial to know why you’re there. Starting small is fine. If you have a destination in mind, you can take your time exploring which program will take you there. 

Online students also shouldn't count themselves out. In fact, Kris encourages them to get in touch and see what opportunities they can take advantage of as online students. This might mean sitting in on a virtual class, asking about in-person events, or reaching out to current students about their experiences.

As a former online Bearcat himself, Kris empathizes with the sizeable commitment of going back to school. “It costs money. It costs time. It takes time away from our families. Nobody wants to be doing homework or watching videos late at night after you've worked 40 hours.” 

Even so, he stresses the importance of remembering your purpose—why you wanted to come back to school and what you want to achieve with your degree.

If you’d like to hear more from Kris, you can watch his full interview below. We’re extremely grateful for the insights he’s shared as well as his continued work at the University of Cincinnati!

Think that information systems might be the right path for you? Then consider UC’s online MS in Information Systems program. Whether you just finished your bachelor’s or are returning to school after years in the workforce, our convenient online learning format will allow you to learn without sacrificing the rest of your life.

If you’re curious but still have questions, your Enrollment Services Advisor is here to help. Connect with us and start your UC journey today!