Valparaiso University Announces Associate Provost of Graduate and Online Education

March 12, 2021 – Valparaiso, Indiana – Valparaiso University welcomes J. Michael “Mike” Tyler, Ph.D., as the associate provost of graduate and online education, effective May 24, 2021. Most recently, Tyler has served as dean of graduate and professional studies and professor of counseling at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland.

In his role as associate provost, Tyler will be responsible for leading, developing and coordinating the University’s online and on-campus graduate programs. He brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education administration and an accomplished record of developing and maintaining online and graduate programs.

“We look forward to the innovative leadership and experience in technology-enhanced education that Associate Provost Tyler will bring to the role,” said Eric W. Johnson ’87, Ph.D., interim provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Working in collaboration with University leadership and faculty members, Associate Provost Tyler will define the role of online learning for the future of the University.”

Tyler exemplifies Valpo’s legacy of establishing innovative academic programs that promote integrated learning and prepare graduates for meaningful careers. He led the redevelopment and launch of a master of science in public administration and two fully online programs in data analytics and disability support services at McDaniel College. Previously, he was responsible for the development of Baker College’s first doctoral program, which was also fully online.

“I am excited to be arriving at a time when Valparaiso University is looking to significantly build on its commitment to students and the community by meeting the higher education needs of more adult learners,” Tyler said. “The University’s commitments in graduate programs are already strong. Building on what already exists, we are going to be able to address the needs of many professionals in Northwest Indiana and beyond.”

Tyler holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana University, a master’s from Purdue University and a bachelor’s from Earlham College. He has taught both graduate and undergraduate courses in psychology, counseling and education.

Valparaiso University currently offers more than 25 graduate degree and certificate programs for high-paying, in-demand fields in business, cyber security, data science, counseling, economics, information technology, nursing, occupational therapy, public health, health administration and more. The University also currently offers several online and hybrid degree options as well as individual online courses.