Mission possible: Air Force Flight Chief Ray Magden pursues a cybersecurity degree online

Balancing work, family and constant changes in technology can make it more difficult than ever to return to school on a traditional college campus. Remote learning offers a solution for those who thought higher education was out of reach by bringing it to students wherever they are.

For Master Sergeant Ray Magden, Boise State’s online Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations and Resilience wasn’t simply a convenient option; it was the only one that fit when he decided to pursue a cybersecurity degree online. As an active-duty U.S Air Force Flight Chief stationed in South Korea, between international duty stations, unpredictable hours and the rigors of military life, traditional brick-and-mortar programs were just out of reach.

“There’s no way I could have returned to school without the remote option,” Magden said. And for many with similar limitations, remote learning is no longer a backup plan. It’s often the only plan. 

From a flight line to the frontlines of cybersecurity

Early on in the hunt for his degree, Magden had tried his hand at other online programs. When asked what separated Boise State Online from the rest, he said, “The inclusion and use of Discord made communication easier and faster. It’s something the other schools didn’t offer.”

While this may seem simple, the ability to communicate and stay in touch with his instructors and classmates about assignments, due dates and general program updates in real time helped motivate him to put in the work.

Now deep into the online cyber operations and resilience program, Magden’s class routine has become tactical: discussion posts on Tuesday, quiz on Wednesday, discussion reply on Thursday and a paper due on Friday. Remote learning works for him. It’s structured in a way that makes progress feel effortless and flexible enough to work with his Air Force schedule.

He enrolled in classes while stationed in Afghanistan, completed coursework on base in Korea, submitted assignments from Greece and will be logging in shortly from his duty station in Italy. When asked if remote learning had opened a door to education that previously didn’t exist, he said, “If [remote learning] weren’t an option, it would have been impossible for me to pursue college.” 

Remote today, ready for tomorrow

Thinking ahead, Magden plans to use his degree for jobs he already has leads on when his military time begins to wind down. His advice to other active duty service members who want to go back to school: “Just try it for a semester or two. Use the military’s tuition assistance. Test it out and find your rhythm.” 

Remote learning can be suitable for anyone. Boise State’s online cyber operations and resilience program opens the door for people with familial obligations, full-time jobs, rural and international commutes or busy lives that don’t fit inside the traditional lecture hall. Students no longer need to be in a classroom to attend class. 

Magden proves this every week, while an ocean away. Whether logging on from South Korea or submitting assignments from his next duty station, Boise State Online moves with him.

Learn more about the cyber operations and resilience program

Boise State’s online cyber operations and resilience program can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step. 

Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.

Written by Joseph Murphy