Bachelor of Professional Studies

How an Online Degree Fueled a Veteran’s Mission to Empower Others 

It’s a late evening in Asheville, North Carolina. The power is out, and the wind howls outside as Hurricane Helene tears through the region. Amid candles and a Starlink setup, determined Army veteran now student, Jonathan Milkovich ’25, logs into class, committed not to let the natural disaster derail his journey to graduation. 

With the power out, many would have understandably postponed their coursework, but not Milkovich. That moment, equal parts grit, resilience, and resourcefulness, perfectly captures who Milkovich is. Although his professors understood and allowed Milkovich to complete his coursework on his own timeline, Milkovich persevered through the storm because it was his online program that fueled the optimism for his future.  

“The transition from military life to academia was tough,” Milkovich says. “Even after serving only five years, transitioning back to civilian life presented numerous challenges. One of my blessings was finding Syracuse and transitioning from an in-person university to an online one with other veterans and adult learners.”  

From Service Member to Student: A New Mission Begins 

After serving in the military, Milkovich found himself at a crossroads. Like many veterans, the transition to civilian life came with uncertainty, emotional strain, and a new set of challenges.  

“Before entering the military, I did not consider higher education a future option. Through service, I realized that the best future for myself, my family, and others was to continue learning and bettering myself through higher education,” he says. That realization led him to enroll into the online Business Management program at Syracuse University. 

The shift to academia was anything but easy. Navigating lectures, assignments, and deadlines while juggling a full-time job and family life required a new kind of discipline. Still, Milkovich credits his wife and parents with creating the space, both emotional and logistical, that allowed him to thrive.  

“Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, for my future and my family, was something that always allowed me to balance what needed to be done and what could wait,” Milkovich says. “The ability to balance full-time work and online studies is something I owe to my wife, who was always picking up what I couldn’t get done at home.” 

Syracuse’s veteran-friendly online program and support played a crucial role in his transition. Designed to accommodate the unique needs of those who’ve served, the program helped Milkovich feel less like a number and more like a valued member of a community. Surprisingly, some of the most meaningful relationships Milkovich developed happened virtually. It was proof that connections don’t require proximity. 

“At graduation, I had the opportunity to meet and develop the relationships we had built through online classes and meetings even more,” Milkovich says. “These people I met are the ones I will work with, pursue veteran initiatives with, and form relationships that I will cherish for a very long time.” 

Syracuse has earned top honors among private universities, ranking No. 3 in Best for Veterans in Online Bachelor’s Programs, No. 7 for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs, and No. 1 for Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs. These distinctions underscore Syracuse’s strong reputation as a leading choice for military-connected students and veterans.  

From the moment they express interest to the day they graduate; students enrolled in the College of Professional Studies’ online programs are supported every step of the way through the College’s dedicated Online Student Success services.  

“Our primary goal is to create conditions for our students to be successful,” says Liz Green, executive director of the student experience. “Our team is trained to support our military-connected students through an individualized approach that honors their experiences, commitment to service, and their mission-driven perspectives. We’re privileged to provide accessible educational pathways for military students like Jonathan.” 

Operation WarriorFit: Building a Legacy of Service 

Graduation isn’t the end of Milkovich’s journey, it’s a launching point for the foundation of his nonprofit organization, Operation WarriorFit.  

When Milkovich left the military, he didn’t just hang up his uniform; he left behind the team, the structure, and the purpose that had shaped his life. Operation WarriorFit is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders through fitness focused events. Born from personal experience after losing a friend in service to mental health struggles, and facing his own challenges transitioning to civilian life, Milkovich recognized the difficulties many veterans, service members, and first responders encounter.  

“Operation WarriorFit’s mission is to offer something after service, to provide the ability to compete, to have something to look forward to,” Milkovich says. “When you go to an event and see someone in OWF gear, you know that you’re in a similar company and back around the people that you miss from service. There is someone out there who went through the exact same thing; you are not alone and never will be.” 

Armed with the knowledge and skills gained through his online Business Management program, the graduate is seamlessly transitioning from student to founder, using his education as a foundation to build and launch his nonprofit organization. 

The course content had immediate relevance to his professional life. Leadership theories were integrated into his logistics work, while communication strategies served as essential tools for engaging effectively with his colleagues. Along the way, he sharpened key skills like virtual presentation and learning to “read the room” even when the room is a screen.  

“One of the biggest things that kept me motivated throughout these classes was not only the apparent fact of bettering myself, but also all the material that was taught throughout the program was always very applicable,” Milkovich says. “I would learn something then go into work the next day and be able to apply the material.” 

Milkovich’s journey is a testament to the power of education as a catalyst for transformation. His online degree didn’t just equip him with practical skills; it fueled his ability to turn a vision into reality. The lessons he learned became the building blocks of Operation WarriorFit and his journey has redefined his definition of success. 

For Milkovich, success is no longer just about personal achievement; it’s about ensuring that others have the support and resources they need to navigate their own transitions. His ability to turn obstacles into opportunities is what defines his journey, and his nonprofit stands as proof that education isn’t just about earning a diploma; it’s about unlocking doors to new opportunities. 

By Hope Alvarez

College of Professional Studies Announces Bachelor of Professional Studies in Interdisciplinary Studies

The College of Professional Studies at Syracuse University announces its most flexible degree program, a bachelor of professional studies (B.P.S.) in interdisciplinary studies.

The fully online B.P.S. in interdisciplinary studies is designed to combine knowledge and perspectives from multiple disciplines, allowing students to gain a well-rounded education and develop a diverse skill set. This program offers a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning through eight-week courses for part-time learners with busy schedules aiming to develop their professional competency and practical skills.

“The B.P.S. in interdisciplinary studies is a unique program which allows students to combine career tracks in three different market-sensitive fields,” says Ryan Williams, associate dean of the College of Professional Studies. “This flexible approach builds on students’ varied interests and aims to prepare them for an increasingly interconnected workplace.” 

A Personalized Educational Journey

With six start dates a year, the 120-credit undergraduate degree is fully online and offers students an immersive online classroom experience that is highly customizable, enabling students to tailor their educational experience to align with their specific interests, career goals, and strengths.

The interdisciplinary studies degree will prepare students to tackle complex issues that cannot be solved using knowledge from a single field alone. Interdisciplinary studies students will develop knowledge and skills in a wide range of competencies and cognitive skills in three of the following disciplines:

  • Cannabis Studies
  • Computer Programming
  • Creative Leadership
  • Cybersecurity Administration
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Knowledge Management
  • Project Management

Start Now Grant

The B.P.S. in interdisciplinary studies is eligible for the College of Professional Studies Start Now Grant.

Students that apply and get admitted in the Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 semesters are eligible to receive the Start Now Grant, which gives students $200 off their first 15 credits in an online undergraduate degree or certificate, an opportunity to save up to $3,000.

For more information, visit https://professionalstudies.syracuse.edu/academics/online/interdisciplinary-studies.


About the College of Professional Studies

The College of Professional Studies is a global, inclusive and future-facing college, providing access to diverse students and learners seeking a Syracuse University degree, credential, certificate, or education experience.

Syracuse University Announces New Online Bachelor of Professional Studies Degree in Policy Studies

Starting in Fall 2022, prospective students will have the opportunity to pursue a policy studies bachelor’s degree online through a partnership between the College of Professional Studies and the Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs, the #1 school in the nation for public affairs (U.S. News & World Report).

“The online policy studies program extends the excellence of the Maxwell school to students who otherwise cannot attend Syracuse University on-campus or full-time,” says Michael Frasciello, dean of the College of Professional Studies. “The inter-curricular program is another wonderful expression of Maxwell’s commitment to make Syracuse University more accessible and truly a university welcoming to all.”

Policy studies students will examine the policy making process and be introduced to the historical, social, economic and political factors shaping issues at local, state, national and global levels. Students will also learn to measure the resulting impact of policies and how they affect individuals and communities. an in-depth research project involving a government agency or community organization, graduates of the program will have a rich portfolio that showcases their learning.

“Policy Studies has been a popular, signature undergraduate program in the Maxwell School for 45 years,” says Carol Faulkner, associate dean of academic affairs at the Maxwell School. “We are excited that this partnership with the College of Professional Studies will allow us to reach new audiences of students who want to make an impact in their communities.”

The B.P.S. in policy studies program will be an online, immersive experience that provides opportunities for real-world learning through a blend of asynchronous coursework, remote experiential activities and synchronous classes. Much of the coursework is designed to be completed outside of the weekly class meetings. The weekly 90-minute classes provide students with the time and space to engage in active discussions, receive immediate feedback, and make connections with fellow classmates and instructors.

The structure of a B.P.S. degree allows online part-time learners with busy schedules to focus on professional competency and practical skills. With a B.P.S. in policy studies, graduates will be highly competitive in the job market and when seeking admission to a wide variety of graduate programs.

“A B.P.S. degree is focused on professional skills and career preparation,” says Ryan O. Williams, associate dean of the College of Professional Studies. “The combination of coursework and seminars designed to enhance career readiness distinguishes a B.P.S. from other bachelor’s degrees. We are delighted to be able to offer a policy-focused degree in partnership with the Maxwell School.”

To learn more about Bachelor of Professional Studies in Policy Studies, visit https://professionalstudies.syracuse.edu/academics/online/policy-studies/.


About the College of Professional Studies

The College of Professional Studies is a global, inclusive and future-facing college, providing access to diverse students and learners seeking a Syracuse University degree, credential, certificate or education experience.


About the Maxwell School

The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University is the nation’s top-ranked school for public affairs, having earned the #1 spot in the U.S. News ranking in every survey year except one. The school offers highly regarded professional programs in public administration and international affairs as well as undergraduate and graduate degrees across the social sciences, and signature interdisciplinary undergraduate programs in policy, civic engagement, environmental sustainability and international relations. It is home to 13 interdisciplinary research centers focused on topical areas within public affairs. With campuses in Syracuse, New York, and Washington, D.C., and academic partnerships around the globe, the Maxwell network provides access to a world of opportunity. For more information, please visit maxwell.syr.edu.

College of Professional Studies Launches First Master of Professional Studies Degree in Project Management with Tuition Discount for First Cohort

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies announces its first graduate degree program, a Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in project management, launching in Spring 2023. The 30-credit degree will be offered fully online, and an exclusive tuition discount will be applied to the initial cohort through the Start Now incentive grant.   

The Start Now incentive grant will be awarded to students admitted into the Spring 2023 cohort. They will receive a discounted rate of $1000/credit, which is 44% less than the graduate tuition rate ($1802/credit hour). The discount will be applied for the first 30 credits of study, allowing students to earn the degree for a total of $30,000.

Consistent with Syracuse University’s commitment to being the number one school for military-connected students, all active duty, guard, reserve and veterans, including spouses and dependents, admitted to the M.P.S. degree program pay $1000 per credit hour, regardless of when they start the program.

All non-military connected students admitted after Spring 2023 pay $1350 per credit hour, which is 25% less than the graduate tuition rate.

“Project management is an increasingly high-demand career choice for members of the military,” says Michael Frasciello, dean of the College of Professional Studies. “The new online master’s program is ideally suited for active and prior military members, as these students come into the program with an ability to think strategically to solve complex challenges. The curriculum is designed to leverage that ability, so each student further develops expertise across a wide range of project management skills.”

The field of project management is vast, and individuals with advanced degrees have opportunities to work in many industries. Regardless of the industry in which they operate, effective project managers lead projects from conception through implementation, creating value and driving change. Project managers are invaluable in all types of organizations, large and small, making this degree highly relevant and sought after in today’s workforce.

“Project management is the art and science of getting stuff done using a proven set of tools, approaches and controls. Studies continue to show that project managers get tasks done more efficiently, and in today’s world, that translates into lower cost and better results,” says Arthur Thomas, executive director of professional acceleration and microcredentials and program director for the Master of Professional Studies in project management. “The Project Management Institute has reported in its recent 2022 jobs report that we can anticipate growth of about 2.3 million annual job opportunities in project management through 2030. Now is the time to be a project manager.” 

The project management M.P.S. curriculum will equip students with the knowledge and skills to create project plans, manage schedules and budgets, identify and manage potential risks and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels within an organization.

The dynamic learning environment of the online project management master’s degree program combines both synchronous and asynchronous learning. Much of the coursework is designed to be completed outside of class meeting times in combination with a required weekly live session that gives students the opportunity to engage in real time discussions with classmates and instructors, ask questions and receive immediate feedback, and gain a stronger understanding of course topics.

Students who take one course every eight-week session can complete the program within 18 months.

To be eligible for the Start Now incentive grant, prospective students must apply by Monday, August 8.

To learn more about admission requirements and program details, visit professionalstudies.syracuse.edu/academics/online/project-management-m-p-s.


About the College of Professional Studies

The College of Professional Studies is a global, inclusive and future-facing college, providing access to diverse students and learners seeking a Syracuse University degree, credential, certificate or education experience.