Dual MIS and Cybersecurity Degrees Help Alumna Break Barriers and Build a Career in National Security

Jennifer Amspacher ’23 MIS ’25 Cybersecurity has built a career grounded in service, discipline and determination.

Growing up in a military family, Amspacher was raised with a strong sense of duty and commitment to public service. Though she originally pursued undergraduate studies in politics and international relations in the United Kingdom, her long-standing interest in technology and problem-solving eventually led her to explore cybersecurity as a means of supporting national security efforts.

After transitioning from military service, she was determined to find a new path to serve. 

“I wanted to continue contributing in a meaningful way, and I saw cybersecurity as a critical domain where I could make an impact,” she says. 

Her search led her to the University of Arizona, where she discovered the opportunity to pursue dual graduate degrees in Management Information Systems (MIS) and Cybersecurity through the Eller College of Management’s highly respected programs.

“I knew if I could complete both programs, it would open doors for me to support national missions from a technical and strategic standpoint,” Amspacher explains.

At Eller, she found more than just academic opportunity. She found community and challenge. She credits the program's structure, faculty engagement and high expectations for shaping her ability to analyze complex cyber risks, understand organizational systems and lead technical teams. 

“The coursework wasn’t just theoretical; it was directly applicable to real-world cybersecurity and enterprise challenges,” she says.

As an advocate for women in STEM, Amspacher emphasizes the importance of representation and mentorship. 

“I spent a lot of time early in my career second-guessing myself,” she says. “At some point, I realized the only limits I was facing were the ones I accepted. Women belong in every part of this field, and we need more of us in leadership positions.”

After completing her MIS degree, she quickly applied her skills in a cyber governance and policy development role, contributing to key cybersecurity modernization initiatives. She later transitioned into more advanced roles that allowed her to combine her policy knowledge with hands-on security assessment and compliance work. In 2025, she completed her Cybersecurity degree while continuing to advance professionally.

“I’ve had the opportunity to support high-visibility initiatives, work on secure systems and help shape policy, all of which stemmed from the foundation Eller gave me,” she says. “The technical depth, combined with business strategy, gave me a distinct edge.”

For those considering Eller’s online graduate programs, she recommends being proactive and intentional. 

“Stay engaged, find a mentor and take the time to build relationships,” Amspacher says. “The flexibility of online learning is a gift, but so is the opportunity to connect with peers and faculty who want to see you succeed.”

Today, Amspacher works in a cybersecurity role supporting the Department of Defense. Her focus remains on continuous growth, professional excellence and opening doors for other women to follow.

“This is the career I worked hard for—and I’m proud of how far I’ve come,” she concludes. “I’m even more excited for where I’m going.”