Middle Tennessee State University

Date: Dec 31 1969
Major: History/Histories (art history/etc.) (This Major's Salary over time)
This has been the worst experience. From the moment I first applied, the admin has given me nothing but constant headaches. My first advisement appointment was a poitive experience, but subsequent appointments were terrible. I had to change advisors, although there is only one advisor in my degree program. My previous advisor told me that because I work full time (in my field), I made a terrible student and that I would either quit or she would "drum [me] out". When i spoke to the head of the department, he told me that many students were having the same issue with the same person, and that he was "reviewing" it. Thankfully, he did change my advisor.

Most of the teachers have been good and interesting, but a few have been very poor.

My largest issue is that I work full time, in my chosen field. I was incredibly lucky to get the job I have, as it's quite a competition to get a spot. Most graduate level classes at MTSU are only offered during the 2:00 slot, meaning I would have to take half days at least one to two times per week. Naturally, my job isn't thrilled with this, and I burnt through all my PTO in one semester. Several classes are offered from 6-9, but they aren't the core classes, they're usually electives. My advisor's response to my concern was that I needed to quit work to prove I was serious about my education- although she admittedly wasn't concerned about my mortgage, car note, insurance, or grocery shopping while I was in school.

The administration and professors are really apathetic to student concerns, even when those concerns are about the course syllabus or projects that are due.

I'm currently looking into other programs to get my degree. The stress from this program is NOT worth what I'm getting out of it. All of my courses so far have been simply assigned readings, and a general class discussion on the topic. The professors give little to no feedback to the students to guide them. I could engage in the same conversation at a bar, for significantly less money. I read on my own, at home, so having a list of assigned books does little for me, as I've already read quite a few of the books. If you love to hear yourself talk, or want to join a historical book club, join MTSU's Graduate History program.