Matthew McKnight (MPA ‘26, BSCJ ‘25)

Matthew
McKnight

MPA ‘26
BSCJ ‘25

Hinesville, GA

Creating New Opportunities Through Education

For Matthew McKnight (MPA ’26, BSCJ ’25), pursuing higher education at the University of Management and Technology (UMT) represented a strategic step toward personal growth, professional advancement, and a brighter future. Matthew first learned about UMT through Christopher Reed, a trusted friend and work colleague, who spoke highly of both the university and his own student experience. More importantly, Christopher showed Matthew how accessible and manageable the enrollment process could be, even while balancing life’s many responsibilities. 

“Seeing how smoothly the program fit into a busy schedule gave me the confidence to pursue my own educational goals,” Matthew shared. That flexibility quickly became one of the defining strengths of Matthew’s UMT experience. As someone balancing academics with a full-time career in law enforcement, he valued the ability to structure his studies to support both his professional and personal responsibilities. 

Beyond flexibility, Matthew found encouragement in UMT’s supportive academic environment. He credits the university’s professors and faculty members for being responsive, approachable, and genuinely invested in student success. One of his biggest challenges was managing and navigating the volume of assignments throughout the program. Rather than becoming discouraged, he leaned into the support system around him: his professors. “Whenever I needed guidance, help was always available,” he reflected. “The support from the faculty made a real difference throughout the program.” With this avenue of communication, he was able to achieve clarification whenever needed. He developed stronger organizational habits and greater confidence in his academic abilities. “I learned that asking for help and staying connected with professors can turn challenges into opportunities for growth,” he said. 

Another aspect that stood out to Matthew was Moodle, UMT’s online learning platform. Its user-friendly design enabled him to navigate coursework, assignments, and communication efficiently, creating a smooth, organized learning experience. 

Completing his degrees represents a significant milestone in Matthew’s life and career aspirations. He believes his education will create new professional opportunities within the law enforcement field, such as positioning him for career advancement and increasing his earning potential in the years ahead. More than anything, Matthew views education as an investment in his future—one that will continue to shape his confidence, goals, and long-term success. 

Today, he proudly describes UMT as a professional and supportive educational institution that he would confidently recommend to others seeking a flexible and career-focused learning experience. “UMT made higher education feel achievable,” Matthew shared. “It gave me the tools, support, and confidence to keep moving forward toward my goals.” 

“Through every challenge and milestone, UMT reminded me that growth begins with believing that your goals are achievable.”