Working full-time for a medical device company, Brian Holben looked for a bachelor’s degree program that would fit into his schedule and help him land a promotion. He came across UW-Milwaukee’s 100 percent online and competency-based Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences: Diagnostic Imaging offered through UW Flexible Option, a program which gave him everything he needed to further his career.
A Desire to Help Others 
Brian enlisted in the United States Marine Corps shortly after graduating from high school. Having served eight years, he was inspired to change careers after his father’s cancer diagnosis.
“I saw the importance of healthcare workers and the positive influence nurses could have on their patients,” he said.
Brian earned a two-year degree in radiology and began working as a radiology technologist for health systems near Charlottesville, Virginia, before becoming a clinical specialist in peripheral vascular medical devices at Medtronic.
Brian was determined to advance his career when a promotional opportunity at work presented itself, but the new role required a bachelor’s degree. During his national search for online degree programs, Brian discovered this bachelor’s completion program through the UW Flexible Option.
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Earning a Degree on His Own Schedule 
Brian was drawn to the Diagnostic Imaging program after seeing an emphasis on medical imaging courses not offered in similar programs. He also appreciated the focus on radiological science and being able to use his previous experience to aid him in his coursework. Instructors in the program include faculty from the UW-Milwaukee College of Health Sciences, the largest school of its kind in Wisconsin.
Brian loved the program’s engaging curriculum and the ability to design his own course plan in the UW Flexible Option. In this competency-based program, students take courses in 12-week subscription periods rather than in traditional fall and spring semesters. This gave Brian the freedom to increase his course load during slower quarters at work, as well as take fewer courses for the busier periods in his life.
“UW Flexible Option is a huge advantage for people with busy schedules,” he said. “During my time [in the program], my wife and I welcomed our first child. The program’s flexibility let me take a couple of months off to focus on family.”
A Team Effort
As a Marine, Brian entered the program with a strong work ethic that helped him complete coursework without losing focus or feeling overwhelmed. UW-Milwaukee is one of the top ten military-friendly schools in the country and offers benefits to help veterans make a successful transition from service to school.
Brian had already been working from home prior to the Diagnostic Imaging program, so the online learning experience felt natural. His instructors were available for assistance whenever he had questions, and his Success Coach provided him with guidance on everything from registration to staying organized and on task.
Brian’s hard work paid dividends: In addition to graduating summa cum laude, he was offered a promotion at Medtronic and started the same day he finished his degree.
Launching Into a New Role
Brian became a territory manager of sales for the medical device company, which operates and provides healthcare services in more than 100 countries. Now he primarily works with clients to promote the company’s products and coordinates with physicians and other staff to spread awareness of best practices for the devices.
Brian recently worked on a product launch, which involved introducing a new procedure for using a device and educating clients on the legal issues related to using it. Brian took what he learned in HS 311x —Law for Healthcare Professionals to ensure a successful launch.
The UW Flexible Option gave Brian the skills to support others on a larger scale and grow within the medical field. For those interested in doing the same, he recommends having a constant willingness to learn new things. Brian has additional advice for prospective students considering UW-Milwaukee’s Diagnostic Imaging bachelor’s degree through the UW Flexible Option:
“Students need to stay organized, set goals, and finish them.”
What’s Next?
Are you ready to earn your Diagnostic Imaging degree on your own schedule? Call an enrollment adviser at 608-800-6762 or email at flex@uwex.wisconsin.edu to get more information.