Justin Barker

When looking for a Masters program I searched for top Supply Chain schools and The University of Arkansas came up on many different lists and rankings.  I ultimately chose the program because of it’s flexibility in courses offered; I could complete the program 100% online and it matched my career goals better than other programs. 

I really enjoyed the diversity of courses offered in the program.  Students can choose paths related to Operations Research, Continuous Improvement or Human Resources to name a few.    I also enjoyed learning from the staff.  Phil Jones, Project Management, not only had deep domain knowledge, but his journey from student-to-teaching has inspired me to look at a similar path. 

I had the opportunity to develop in areas such as leadership and finance while reinforcing areas I had more experience.  One of my favorite classes was Leadership Principles.  The course really helped me with a scientific view of leadership; It goes well beyond simply having social skills.  Applying the theories to real people such as Abraham Lincoln made them real and easier to use day-to-day.   Having completed the MSOM program, I know that I will be able to excel both professionally and personally.  The knowledge and skills gained are relevant and practical to businesses of all types.   Finance was woven into several of the courses and all of them helped to provide real world experience that is critical for business leaders and executives.  These skills will be foundational in my future career growth and I’m excited to see where they take me!