Speedrunning a master’s degree
First online master’s of construction science program grad finishes 2-year program in 18 months
Justin Miller ’24, will soon cross the stage as the first graduate of Texas A&M University’s new Online Master of Science in Construction Management program, a degree path created for busy professionals who want to earn a graduate degree without leaving their industry jobs.
The program was made for students like Miller, who is a driven 31-year-old veteran who works a full time job, a part time job and has a growing family with three children under five years old. He was one of the first students accepted into the new program, designed to take two years, and finished in just 18 months.
“I put in the work, dedicated myself to my studies, and now it’s all paying off,” said Miller on his swift academic journey.
Educational journey
Miller is no stranger to challenges. After high school, he joined the U.S. Army and served as a Cavalry Scout, where he served overseas and he cross-utilized his time to earn a bachelor’s degree online in business management. After returning stateside, Miller started a full-time job with Anchor, a consulting company in Amarillo, Texas that oversees electrical high-voltage powerline substations. He also works a second job, part-time as a construction coordinator for Oncor.
As Miller advanced in his career, he said he wanted to develop his skills for more career opportunities.
“I’ve always tried to be the best at everything I’ve done — to get the most qualifications, and to be well-rounded,” he said.
In pursuit of professional growth, and on the recommendation of colleagues, he landed at Texas A&M University.
“The Aggie Network really worked on me,” he said. “I did my own research, and when I learned about the online program they were launching, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
The College of Architecture’s Online Master of Science in Construction Management program launched in Fall of 2023 and was designed with a flexible curriculum that allows students to adjust their course load each semester and continue to work their full time jobs. Lectures are recorded for those unable to attend scheduled classes due to professional commitments and a full faculty is dedicated to the online program.
A fast master’s
Miller joined the first cohort of the three-year program, and said he was determined to complete his degree quickly.
“I took four classes at a time while working a full-time job and trying to balance a couple different hats,” Miller said. “I have young kids and wanted to spend as much time with them as possible, and I knew I couldn’t do it for over three years.”
To finish the program in half the time, Miller endured long days, sleepless nights and weekends full of homework assignments and studying.
“I would work all day, then immediately jump straight into class when I got home. I didn’t skip a beat,” he said
He says it was all worth it, upon his December 2024 graduation, he’ll be moving up with a promotion at Anchor.
“Completing the MSCM program at Texas A&M is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the resilience and dedication that veterans like Justin Miller bring from their military service. Justin is well equipped with the knowledge and skills to continue building his career at Anchor. We are very proud that Justin will represent the Aggie spirit and our Department’s commitment to excellence in construction management,” said Anthony Marraro, Director of Online Masters Program.
Future plans
In early 2025, Miller and his family will relocate to Amarillo, Texas, for his promotion to general manager at Anchor. In his new role, he will oversee day-to-day operations and manage coordinators.
For Miller, the promotion is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication and was well worth the sacrifices. He said his master’s degree was a critical factor in qualifying for his new role and without it, the opportunity would not have been possible.
He said all his experiences have molded him into the person he is today.
“My military background helped me become more adaptable to changing circumstances and take on whatever life throws at me,” he said. “(And) my time with instructors, fellow professionals and industry experts at Texas A&M provided me with an exceptional academic experience. I’m excited to take on new responsibilities and continue to expand my career.”
Construction science online at A&M
Learn more about online or in person construction management degrees at the Texas A&M College of Architecture.
