Gaining skills one degree at a time

After gaining a position at Collins Aerospace and graduating from Mount Mercy with a degree in accounting, finance, and management, Annie Ertz ’19, ’22 MBA returned to the Master of Business Administration program at MMU with four graduate courses already under her belt.

As an undergraduate student, Ertz was impressed with Mount Mercy’s business program and wanted to find ways to stand out from the crowd.

“I started my undergraduate just looking to complete a degree in accounting,” said Ertz. “After talking with my advisors, they let me know that I could add other majors within the business department and only add a few classes to my academic plan. I’m very grateful that my advisors and professors took the time to get to know me and my goals because I now work in an accounting and finance role.”

While talking with her advisor about graduating early, Ertz found out about the MMU Plus program. The program would allow her to take up to four graduate courses in her an area she was interested in for no additional charge. These credits would then count towards her undergraduate degree and as graduate credit should she choose to continue her education at any institution.

“I made some valuable connections in my graduate courses as most of the classes are comprised of locally employed people,” said Ertz. “Even if you’re not sure if you want to pursue a graduate degree, the MMU Plus program allows you to get credits that give you the option of graduate studies, make connections with people in the graduate courses, and learn a lot!”

Once she experienced a few courses, Ertz knew she wanted to get her MBA from Mount Mercy. Ertz’ decision to stay at MMU was made easier since she didn’t have to take the GMAT.

“I chose to continue taking graduate courses after obtaining my four-year degree because I’m passionate about continuing to learn and pursue education,” said Ertz.

The classes Ertz has taken so far have been applicable to her current position and also better utilizes the knowledge she gained from her undergraduate degree. Skills she gained from her studies that she uses the most are problem-solving skills and application of theoretical knowledge.