Published on 04-09-2025
For many of us, pursuing a graduate program is a compelling and daunting decision. How can we fit it into an already busy schedule of balancing career and family?
Gibson found that Mitch Daniels School of Business Online Master of Science in Economics would allow him to advance his knowledge and skills while balancing his roles as a working professional and father. Gibson had specific priorities in choosing the best program.
Gibson completed the 30-credit program entirely online, giving him and students like him the flexibility to pursue a degree without uprooting their families and putting their careers on hold. He also didn’t have to sacrifice reputation or rigor, as the program was the #1 Online MS Economics Program in 2023. Purdue is the #1 Most Recognized Public University, according to American Caldwell. The program deepened Gibson’s understanding of analysis and application of economic data, teaching him current trends and analytical tools. The program allowed him to choose from among three specializations, enabling him to choose different emphases in data analytics, finance, or policy.
Gibson currently consults for municipal, county and regional governmental authorities. He collaborates with local governments to help enhance operations, develop strategies and conduct policy analyses to address evolving issues. Already possessing an undergraduate degree in international business economics, Gibson needed to earn his master’s to further his knowledge and advance his career. Because of his young family, Gibson needed a program that would allow him to be present for his spouse and children without hampering his motivation to work on new complex challenges and strengthen his expertise in his current role. Purdue’s online programs gave him the flexibility to take classes and tests on his own schedule, which was vital to his success as a student.
When looking for the perfect school, Gibson “wanted a program that would give both theoretical and applied sciences needed in a dynamic workforce.”
At Purdue, signature classes like econometrics correlated to his career, helping him apply his newly learned synthesis of statistics, economics, and mathematics to test hypotheses and analyze economic predictions in his day-to-day tasks. Through several courses in the program, Gibson learned a master's-level understanding of conducting empirical economic analysis using statistical techniques. He explored ways of applying linear regression models while applying key best practices like efficiency, unbiasedness, and consistency.
Other key indicators validated Gibson’s decision to pursue this program. In his courses, he appreciated the amount of adaptability they presented.
“If there are certain topics or things you want to dig deeper into, you can without being fully left behind,” he says.
Gibson highlighted the ease of Purdue’s online learning management system. The platform and course design provided him with his classmate’s contact information, allowing for easy formation of study groups. He emphasized the relief of having consistent support from fellow peers, as well as professors eager to help.
Gibson encourages any self-driven individuals to check out these programs. His experience exemplifies how, even with an established career and family life, Purdue’s Daniels School Online Graduate Programs provide flexibility and opportunity for professionals advancing or pivoting their careers.
Explore career opportunities in our economics industry report.
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