Dentist Adds MBA to Credentials – Advances to Director

Medical Professional Adds MBA to Credentials — Advances to Director Position

Kelly Kirtland’s list of accomplishments before she decided to add an MBA with a certificate in Health Care Administration was already impressive. The York, Pennsylvania native studied biology as an undergrad student at Temple University. She then added an MS in Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport, an MA in Educational Administration, and a Dental Educator Certificate from University of the Pacific.

Along with her education, the board-certified pediatric dentist’s experience has spanned twenty years. Part of that experience even includes teaching pharmacology at the University of Cincinnati’s Blue Ash Campus.

With so many credentials and years of experience, some may wonder if adding an MBA could be beneficial, but for Dr. Kirtland, the MBA paid off just before graduation.

The Online Experience

With extensive experience with in-person learning, Kelly, like many other students, appreciated the convenience and flexibility of UC Online’s MBA program. But there was a surprising aspect as well.

Online Learning Perks

“I chose UC Online for my MBA based on its highly-ranked reputation, reasonable tuition, and completely online format. Being able to fit my school work around my work schedule and family life was one of my favorite parts. I could sit at my own computer to complete the 10-20 hours of work each week at my convenience. I didn’t have to drive to campus, park, walk, and rush to class in inclement weather.”

One thing Kirtland didn’t expect? The connections she made with other students. “I was surprised to develop close friendships through online learning. A few of them live across the country!”

Added Flexibility

Kelly circles back, enthusiastically recalling a helpful change in the program. “While I was in UC Online’s MBA program, they changed formats to allow students to take their MBA core courses and certificate courses in any order, provided pre-requisites are completed.” The change to the already flexible online learning experience is one she appreciated and took advantage of.

Words of Wisdom

Since navigating the online MBA program herself, Kirtland advises those applying and enrolling to get to know the professors. “Most of them have worked or are working in their respective industries. They’re able to provide valuable real-life insights from experience in addition to the approved curriculum.”

Professional Impact

Before graduation, Dr. Kirtland happily accepted a new job working for University Hospitals in Cleveland. In fact, she was hired just as her very last MBA course was starting. The new role came with an increase in salary, but it’s clear the pride and passion she has for her career go beyond the financial gains.

Passion and Purpose

“I’m so proud of my new position with University Hospitals. My title is Rainbow Babies and Children’s Division Chief, Pediatric Dentistry. Part of our work is training the next generation of care providers following a specific tradition: to heal, to teach, to discover. I’m honored to be in a leadership position at a children’s hospital that truly cares for the underserved and most vulnerable amongst us — young children and children with special needs.”

Looking to the future, Dr. Kirtland has reached a level of contentment in her career. Her heart for her work shines as she says her long-term plans include continuing to care for children and educating the next generation of care providers so they can do the same. She adds, “I want to elevate those around me so they can achieve their professional goals too.”

Ready to discover the impacts an MBA from UC Online can have on your career? Explore everything our program has to offer.