How to Find a College

What is the Salary for a BSN?

2007-06-04T09:09:00.000-07:00

What is the salary for a BSN? According to Salary.com surveys, the typical industry-wide salary range for a Registered Nurse (RN) is roughly $48,919 to more than $67,000 annually. Exact salaries will depend on a variety of factors, including years on the job and geographic location.

In general, the more education and experience an RN has, the better his or her rate of pay. RNs with a diploma or an associate degree can move up on the pay scale by enrolling in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

Many RNs receive their training through associate degree or diploma programs, which typically last between two and three years. Besides basic training in the sciences and in nursing skills, RNs in these programs receive hands-on training, with little to no advanced theory or research.

Read the rest of the article here.

L.P.N. Salary Range

2007-06-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

According to Salary.com surveys, the typical industry-wide salary range for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is roughly $31,496 to $43,323 annually. Exact nursing salaries will depend on a variety of factors, including years on the job and geographic location.

For example, LPNs in the Boston, Massachusetts area can expect to earn salaries between $35,483 and $48,848 – a top end that’s more than $5000 higher than the national average.

At the same time, LPNs employed in Yamhill, Oregon can expect to earn roughly the national average of $31,000 to start, with a range up to more than $45,000 annually.

Read the rest of the article here.

Legal Nurse Consultant

2007-06-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Although attorneys have comprehensive training in the law, they do not always understand complicated medical matters. A registered nurse who uses extensive clinical knowledge and experience to consult on health-care cases is called a legal nurse consultant (LNC).

An LNC provides a variety of services, including performing research, educating lawyers on medical facts and their relevance to a case, summarizing dense medical literature, examining and organizing records, and interviewing witnesses and finding experts. Types of cases an LNC might work on are workers’ compensation, malpractice, negligence, criminal, fraud, product liability, and personal injury. Sometimes, an LNC testifies as an expert witness in court.

For the registered nurse who has at least three years of clinical experience—especially in emergency medicine and intensive and critical care—becoming an LNC requires no other formal training. Some institutions, however, offer a certificate program in legal consulting for RNs.

Read the rest of the article here.

http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifM.B.A. and M.S.N.

2007-06-04T09:06:00.000-07:00

A graduate degree certainly helps nurses get ahead in their careers, but a dual degree can give them a competitive edge. A Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Business Administration (M.S.N./M.B.A.) program combines nursing with business courses, which enables students to better serve in a range of health-care management positions, especially in executive roles.

Many universities offer the M.S.N./M.B.A. jointly through their business and nursing schools. Students earn both degrees simultaneously, enrolling in business classes such as labor relations, finance, management, and accounting, while refining their nursing knowledge and skills in M.S.N. courses and clinical work. A typical program of study requires between 57 and 78 credits, including a practicum, extensive research, and a thesis or some other final project. Some programs stipulate that students complete an internship. The time it takes to get the dual degree is actually shorter than it would take to acquire the M.S.N. and the M.B.A. separately, as some core requirements in each degree program overlap. Full-time students can finish the program in three years, but part-time study is usually available.

Read the rest of the article here.

M.S.N. Online

2007-06-04T09:05:00.000-07:00

Distance education programs, especially those delivered online, have grown in number and popularity. Given this trend, many schools have begun offering advanced degrees online, including the Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.). For busy RNs who work while pursuing a degree, enrolling in an online M.S.N. program can be convenient. Students can complete their course work at their own pace but within a specified time frame.

In general, an online M.S.N. curriculum requires students to choose a specialization and complete a series of nursing courses, clinical work, research, and a thesis or final project. Most programs do not require students to live on campus, although a short visit, such as for an orientation, may be necessary. Most online classes are structured much like a traditional class, with lectures, discussions, and assignments.

Read the rest of the article here.

M.S.N--Master of Science in Nursing

2007-06-04T09:04:00.000-07:00

The Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) offers nurses further specialization in a specific field, allowing them to advance their careers. With a graduate degree, a nurse is well qualified to serve in a leadership role at a health-care facility or as a member of a university faculty.

The M.S.N. curriculum helps nurses hone their research, communication, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students must take about forty credits beyond their undergraduate degree, depending on the program. In general, the M.S.N. requires students to complete a series of nursing courses, clinical work, and research. Many programs entail the writing and defense of a thesis, while others require a final project. Students’ program of study centers on their area of interest. The M.S.N. usually takes between eighteen and twenty-four months of full-time study to finish, but many institutions offer part-time options.

Read the rest of the article here.

B.S.N to M.S.N: Getting a Nursing Graduate Degree

2007-06-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

Graduate study in nursing prepares students in a variety of specializations, helping nurses move into leadership roles at health-care facilities or into positions on university faculties. The Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) degree allows students to focus on one area of interest, which can be classified in one of four categories—the age of treated patients, the work setting or kind of care provided, diseases or medical conditions, and organs or organ systems.

In general, students take around 40 credits beyond the bachelor’s degree to obtain the master’s, depending on the program. An M.S.N. curriculum usually requires students to complete a series of nursing classes, clinical work, and research. The content of the program of study centers on a student’s area of interest. In many programs, the student must write and defend a thesis or complete a final project. The full-time student can complete the M.S.N. in eighteen to twenty-four months.

Read the rest of the article here.

R.N. to MSN--Getting a Nursing Master's Degree

2007-06-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

To advance their careers, make more money, or simply learn more about a particular field, RNs can pursue graduate studies. The Master of Science in Nursing(M.S.N.) degree gives nurses further specialization in a specific field. Specializations are divided into four general categories—the work setting or kind of care provided, diseases or medical conditions, organs or organ systems, and the age of treated patients.

For the RN who earned an associate degree or a diploma in nursing, some institutions offer an accelerated RN-to-M.S.N. program. To pursue graduate study, a student must first have a bachelor’s degree. Typically, RNs complete nursing classes, research, and clinical work for both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)...

Read the rest of the article here.

B.S.N-Bachelor of Science in Nursing

2007-06-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) helps students with no prior experience obtain licensure and gives current RNs an opportunity to expand their careers.

Many RN positions, especially those with supervisory roles, require applicants to have a B.S.N. Students without nursing experience can complete the degree in four years, while RNs can get credit for previous education and experience, allowing them to finish their degree programs in less time.

In the first and second years, students complete general education requirements, including classes in the liberal arts and sciences. In their third and fourth years, students enroll in nursing courses and complete clinical work. Students receive practical training through the clinical component, which includes a set minimum number of hours working in a health-care facility.

Read the rest of the article here.

R.N. to BSN--Online

2007-06-04T08:59:00.001-07:00

With the growing popularity of distance education programs, many institutions have begun offering the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) for RNs online. Course work is completed through online classes, usually at the student’s pace but within a specific time frame.

An arrangement for the clinical portion of the curriculum is often made with a facility in proximity to the student’s home. No accredited B.S.N. program allows students to complete clinical work online.

For busy RNs who continue to work while advancing their education, enrolling in an online B.S.N. program can be a convenient option. Online classes are most often set up much like a traditional class, with lectures, discussions, and assignments. Most have their own Web site, where students can download lecture notes and assignments and chat with other students.

Read the rest of the article here.

R.N. to BSN

2007-06-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

In general, the more education and experience an RN has, the better his or her rate of pay. RNs with a diploma or an associate degree can move up on the pay scale by enrolling in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program.

Offered at many colleges and universities, the B.S.N. is usually a four-year program. RNs, however, can earn credit for course work already completed and through related work experience, which can decrease the time it takes to acquire the degree.

Read the rest of the article here.

RN--Registered Nurse

2007-06-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

Registered nurses (RNs) work in conjunction with other health-care professionals to provide complete care to patients. As the health-care provider responsible for patients’ well-being, an RN assesses patients and develops care plans. In addition, an RN educates both patients and the public on various medical conditions, provides support and/or advice to patients’ families, and helps with follow-up care or rehabilitation. Other RN duties can include running medical machinery, performing laboratory tests and analyzing the results, and administering medication. Many RNs supervise nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses (LPNs)/vocational practical nurses (VPNs).

Specializations are divided into four general categories—the kind of care provided or work setting, diseases or medical conditions, organs or organ systems, and the age of treated patients. Highly skilled RNs with graduate education can become advanced practice nurses (APNs) or advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs). Types of APNs are certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), certified nurse midwife (CNM), clinical nurse specialist (CNS), and nurse practitioner (NP).

Read the rest of the article here.

Licensed Practical Nurse--Vocational Practical Nurse

2007-06-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

A licensed practical nurse (LPN), known as a vocational practical nurse (VPN) in California and Texas, works with registered nurses (RNs) and medical doctors to care for patients of all ages.

An LPN provides routine care, including checking temperature and blood pressure; helps patients perform routine activities, such as eating, bathing, and dressing; and administers medication (in certain states).

Other LPN duties include applying dressings, changing catheters, treating bedsores, collecting specimens for laboratory tests, and devising care plans. An LPN must carefully monitor patients and report any changes or adverse reactions to medications to the supervising RN or physician.

Read the rest of the article here.

Nursing Assistant Certificate

2007-06-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

A certified nursing assistant (CNA) works with registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to care for patients in a variety of settings. CNAs help people with their daily living activities, including bathing, dressing, and eating, and provide routine care, such as checking vital signs. This allows the supervising nurse to have more time to give patients the specialized care they require.

A CNA must have a keen sense of observation and report to the supervising nurse any changes in a patient’s condition. In addition, a CNA should have enough physical strength to be able to move patients, for example, into a wheelchair. In an emergency, a CNA must be able to remain calm and respond appropriately. Other qualities in a typical CNA include patience, compassion, and strong communication skills.

Read the rest of the article here.

The Nurse Ph.D.: The Leaders in a Vital Profession

2007-06-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

Nurses are in high demand with all levels of education and experience, but there is no doubt that the nursing profession needs more nurses educated at the doctoral level—primarily as faculty and researchers. The national shortage of faculty will soon be critical, impacting educational programs and their ability to educate future generations of nurses.

Currently, only about half of nursing faculty possess a doctorate degree. With many advances being made in the treatment of chronic illnesses, there is also a continuing need for research that assists patients in living with their illness. This research requires individual investigators who are prepared on the doctoral level.

One reason there is a lack of nurses prepared at the doctoral level often because nurses have more interruptions in their careers. Many in the profession are women who work as nurses while fulfilling other responsibilities. As a result, many pursue their education on a part-time basis. Also, the nursing profession traditionally has viewed clinical experience as being a prerequisite to graduate education. This career path results in fewer individuals completing the doctorate early stage in their career...

Read the rest of the article here.

Financial Aid for Criminal Justice Majors

2007-06-04T08:52:00.001-07:00

Let’s face it: College can be expensive. If you’re looking for financial aid to help pay for your degree in criminal justice, it’s essential that you look into all possible sources!

As with any discipline, the place to start your financial aid search is with the federal government. First of all, you’ll need to complete the FAFSA in order to determine the types and amount of federal aid for which you qualify. Federal aid includes grants, work-study awards, and loans. It’s also the largest single source of available aid. To get your share, complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1 of the year in which you intend to enroll.

After you have filed the FAFSA, it’s time to look into grants and scholarships, especially those earmarked for criminal justice students. Online scholarship search engines abound and can often provide details on scholarships about which you may not be aware. Also try entering terms such as “criminal justice scholarships” or “criminal justice awards” into a search engine, such as Google. This is a particularly good way to gain an overview of the many school-sponsored awards for which you may qualify.

Read the rest of the article here.

Public Sector Careers for Criminal Justice Grads

2007-06-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

Considering a career in criminal justice? The public sector offers a wealth of opportunities to well trained candidates with the right background and training. Providing security, challenges, and the chance to protect and serve, there are numerous available public-sector careers in criminal justice.

Here are just a few of the careers you might pursue as a graduate with a degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field:

• Probation or Correction Officer: Enjoy helping people? Probation and correction officers work with criminal offenders to keep them safe and help them rehabilitate when they re-enter society.
• Paralegal: With numerous government agencies churning out mountains of documents, paralegals remain essential in providing research and organizational assistance.
• Court Officer: As a court officer, you will literally be the one to restore order in the court. Court officers are tasked with protecting the judge, jury, and other individuals during court proceedings.

Read the rest of the article here.

Private Sector Careers for Criminal Justice Grads

2007-06-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

With multiple versions of CSI drawing the ratings on TV, it’s safe to say that criminal justice, as a field, is in the public eye. Of course, the real world of criminal justice is a little different from what you see during prime time. Believe it or not, most crime scene investigators have a single area of specialty—and it usually takes more than a half hour to get results.

Nevertheless, criminal justice continues to be an exciting and rewarding field.

Think you have what it takes to be a PI? Maybe so, but that’s not the only track available to you once you’ve earned a criminal justice or criminology degree. In fact, the field is so diverse, there’s literally almost a job for every personality.

Here’s some information on just a few:

Read the rest of the article here.

Hot Disciplines in Criminal Justice

2007-06-04T08:49:00.002-07:00

Interested in getting into one of the hot disciplines in criminal justice? As the world grows ever more complex, the process by which justice is administered follows suit. For that reason, academic criminal justice programs offer an increasing number of specialty areas in which you might focus your study.

Whether you’re a computer geek with an eye for crime or a people person with the drive to help rehabilitate criminals released on probation, a targeted course of study in an accredited criminal justice program will prepare you to enter this fast-paced and rewarding field.

Here are just a few of the disciplines within criminal justice that are attracting students of late:

Crime scene investigation and forensics. As you might expect, this well-publicized discipline attracts a steady crowd of hopeful crime scene investigators. Of course, learning to be a forensic scientist takes a lot of work. Be prepared for challenging courses in the hard sciences if you want to be the next CSI.

Read the rest of the article here.

Graduate Degrees in Criminal Justice

2007-06-04T08:49:00.001-07:00

A graduate degree in criminal justice will help to set you apart from the rest in the growing—but sometimes competitive—field of criminal justice.

When choosing a graduate program, it is very important to accurately define your goals and reasons for pursuing a higher degree. In order to find the graduate criminal justice program that’s right for you, roll up your sleeves and conduct an investigation! A good place to start is with the faculty at each criminal justice program you are considering. What are their interests? Do they correlate with your own? Since graduate school is about becoming a specialist, you’ll want to find criminal justice programs that are explicitly aligned with your interests.

Graduate criminal justice programs exist at both the master’s and doctoral level, with available programs including the following:

Read the rest of the article here.

Getting Your Criminal Justice Degree Online

2007-06-04T08:48:00.001-07:00

Criminal justice is a popular discipline, and for that reason, the Internet is flooded with information about online programs. Sound like the path for you? If so, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and do some research. There are many online criminal justice programs that will equip you with the skills you need—the key is to find one that’s both accredited and tailored to your interests.

The obvious benefit of studying online, regardless of the discipline, is convenience. If you are already in the workforce, or balancing the obligations of work, school, and family, an online program often gives you the flexibility to study on your own time and at your own pace. Indeed, you can attend many of the country’s most prestigious universities as an online student, which makes it possible to move forward in your career while you work!

Of course, online learning is not for everyone. If you are the type of student who requires lots of face time with your professors, you may be at a disadvantage. It’s also important to remember that while an online program may be convenient, it still takes a lot of work. Online or on campus, being a criminal justice student is a commitment.

Read the rest of the article here.

Criminal Justice Programs: Admissions Requirements and Process

2007-06-04T08:46:00.002-07:00

A degree in criminal justice can put you on the fast track to a rewarding and exciting career. As you consider the various available degrees that can prepare you for a criminal justice career, it’s worthwhile to consider what you want to do once you graduate.

Two-year programs. If you’re looking to work as a security guard, forensic technician, or paralegal, you will benefit from training at the two-year associate degree level. To get started, you will normally need a high school diploma or GED. From there, all you will likely need to do is enroll and declare your intent to study criminal justice. Be aware that there are sometimes waiting lists for popular programs. Keep in mind that some employers may prefer candidates with a higher degree, depending on your field.

Four-year programs. The process of getting into a college criminal justice program is generally about getting into the school itself. As you likely know, certain colleges are more competitive than others; for that reason, it is important to take the application process seriously. The aim of the game is to present credentials that impress.

Read the rest of the article here.

Criminal Justice Programs: Choosing the Right School

2007-06-04T08:46:00.001-07:00

When you start researching potential criminal justice programs, whether undergraduate or graduate, you may be surprised by the sheer number of options from which you have to choose. In part, this can be attributed to the recent fanfare surrounding the field. Between popular TV shows and a national emphasis on homeland security, numerous individuals have been inspired to pursue a criminal justice or criminology career.

So how do you find the one that’s right for you? That depends. To start, you should think about what you intend to do with your criminal justice degree. The best path for a future police detective differs from that of a future forensic scientist. If you aren’t yet sure of your intended career, that’s OK. However, it can definitely help to guide your choice if you do have a goal.

Next up, it’s time to flex your investigative skills and develop a well-rounded list of suspects—that is, schools. If you intend to study criminal justice at the college level, the first order of business is to determine whether you are interested in a program with an academic focus or one that offers a more career-focused curriculum.

Read the rest of the article here.

Starting Salaries for Criminal Justice Grads

2007-06-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

In a field as diverse as criminal justice, there is a wide array of possible career paths, each with its own pros and cons. Here’s the good news: the need for professionals with a background in criminal justice is predicted to show continued growth for the foreseeable future. That’s according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the government agency that tracks such things.

It is certainly possible to command a hefty salary when you work in criminal justice. (Criminal lawyers come to mind.) However, do not let your salary potential be your only consideration as you plan your criminal justice career. Many criminology jobs offer intense rewards, such as helping others and maintaining public safety. While some may offer more eye-popping starting paychecks than others, all are worthy of consideration.

Private-sector positions. In the private sector, earnings can be quite high, even for a fresh-faced grad with a criminal justice degree and some internship experience. Of course, public-sector gigs often come with attractive benefits. Here’s what to expect if you go the private route.

Read the rest of the article here.

College Degrees in Criminal Justice

2007-06-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

If you’re interested in crime and public policy, then a college major in criminal justice or criminology could be right up your alley.

Perhaps you’ve already envisioned yourself at the scene of an unsolved crime, uncovering the one piece of evidence that puts the puzzle in place. (Did you ever notice how quickly that occurs on TV?) Of course, that could happen, but it’s wise to consider that crime scene investigation and forensics are just two of the many, many paths available to you when you earn your degree in criminal justice.

For example, did you know that criminal justice is a popular major for prelaw students? Law schools like to admit students from diverse educational backgrounds, and criminal justice students are often well prepared to appreciate the importance of the legal system. So, if you aim to practice criminal law, a college degree in criminal justice is a logical first step.

Read the rest of the article here.

Doctoral Degree: Online

2007-06-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

The doctoral degree, the highest degree awarded, is earned after an advanced course of study that usually consists of original research, a dissertation, and extended written work. The traditional on-campus doctoral student takes four to ten years to complete the degree, but many distance learning doctoral programs are structured to streamline the process. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) is the most common doctoral degree; it is awarded in fields that range from philosophy to geology. Other frequently awarded doctoral degrees include the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.), Doctor of Engineering (Eng.D.), and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.).

Not too long ago, if you wanted to get a doctoral degree online, you would have had a tough time finding one. There were far fewer online doctoral degree programs than master’s degree programs. However, online doctoral courses are increasingly accepted. “It has spread like a good virus throughout education,” says Michael P. Lambert, Executive Director of the Distance Education and Training Council.

Read the rest of the article here.

Graduate Degrees: Online

2007-06-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

Online learning program providers predominantly offer master’s degrees. It makes sense. The students who need to keep up their skills in the workplace or need graduate degrees to move ahead in their professions are most likely to have jobs and families. Online learning is a great fit for their busy lifestyle.

The master’s degree is the first academic or professional degree earned after the bachelor’s degree. A traditional, full-time master’s degree student may take a year or two to earn the required 30 credits. In some master’s degree programs, students are simply expected to take advanced-level courses and perhaps pass a culminating exam. In others, original research and a thesis are required. Some online learning programs have a brief residency requirement. Students usually earn a Master of Arts (M.A.), a Master of Science (M.S.), or a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree. Many of the online master’s degree programs are professional in nature.

Read the rest of the article here.

Bachelor's Degree: Onlinehttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif

2007-06-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

Generally, the bachelor’s degree is recognized worldwide as the first university degree you earn. Although students enrolled full-time can earn the degree in four years, many take up to six years to earn the required 120 to 128 credits.

In most colleges and universities, the course of study that leads to a bachelor’s degree consists of concentrated work in a major, such as psychology or business, and wide-ranging work in a variety of subjects, such as the liberal arts, to give students a broad foundation of knowledge. However, some bachelor’s degree programs focus on intensive study in a particular field without the broad liberal arts background. The most common bachelor’s degrees are the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.), although there are many other titles.

It used to be that if you were getting a bachelor’s degree online you were probably in your mid-thirties, working, and had a family. Now the age of the typical undergraduate online student is dropping because many people have to work full-time and can’t go to a traditional campus.

Read the rest of the article here.

Associates Degrees Online

2007-06-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

The two most common associate degrees are the Associate of Arts (A.A.) and the Associate of Science (A.S.), with others such as the Associate of Business Administration (A.B.A.) and the Associate of General Studies (A.G.S.). Usually students in associate degree programs take two years to finish. But if they are part-time, it can take a lot longer to earn the 60 to 64 credits required.

The growth of online courses in community colleges has been extremely rapid, fueled in part because so many people who want a college degree work, have families, or lack the funds to take off four years to go to a traditional college. From her observations about enrollment at Rio Salado College, Carol Scarafiotti, Executive Consultant, Online Learning, Vice President Emeritus, observes that online learning for students getting an associate degree is catching on. Rio Salado College had about 6,000 students in their online courses in 1996. By the spring of 2005, 24,000 students were enrolled.

Read the rest of the article here.

From Associate Degrees to Graduate Degrees

2007-06-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

What if you are interested in learning about forensics or want to take a creative writing class for credit toward a bachelor’s degree? These—and thousands more courses that one wouldn’t ordinarily think could be taught via the Internet—are available online.

A. Frank Mayadas, Ph.D., Program Director of the Sloan Foundation, observes that asynchronous learning will drive online learning to provide classes on a breadth and scale hardly imaginable. He sees specialized courses growing and notes that it’s already happening. Online learners now have a spectacular range of possibilities, from full-fledged doctorates to classes in doll-making.

When distance learning was first developing, it was primarily geared toward working adults in their late twenties to mid-thirties. They wanted to enhance their career development or get the degree they hadn’t gotten because of jobs and families. Institutions that offered online learning catered to their interests, with professional courses and degrees in business and health.

Read the rest of the article here.

How To Choose an Online Program

2007-06-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

Online Learning Sounds Right For Me! How do I choose a program?

Ready to dig into the details and choose the online learning program that best fits your needs and circumstances? Since geographic location is not part of the criteria, you literally have thousands of programs to choose from. However, you can’t depend on name recognition alone. Remember, online programs vary in what they offer and how they deliver education. And price is not a reliable indication of a program’s value.

Start with Statistics

Track Record

An online program can have glitzy advertising about how easy it is to earn a degree, but its graduation and drop out rates tell the true story. If retention rates are low, it probably means students are not being taught well.

Experience

It has taken years for online providers to learn how to best design courses, train faculty, and serve online students. Quality institutions continuously learn about and develop new methodologies. Some major universities have the name recognition, but do their online programs have the recognition, too?

Read the rest of the article here.

The Pros and Cons of Online Learning

2007-06-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

ome folks wonder why they have to pay full tuition for online courses. In their minds, online learning should be cheaper because they equate online with correspondence courses; after all, you’re not sitting in a classroom. Many think online means lower quality because they’ve seen diploma mill advertisements promising a degree that is “only a click away.” Prestige and quality mean ivy-covered walls, not a desktop in the den. There is no doubt that a lot of people are still wary about online education.

As online learning becomes more popular and commonplace, the pros will eventually outweigh the cons. Research indicates that online learning is, in many ways, better than face-to-face.

Online Discussions vs. Face-to-Face Discussions

One of the more significant discussions about online learning swirls around the quality of interaction between students, students and teachers, and students and information. Some say that meaningful discussions can only effectively happen face-to-face. But if you don’t want to get into discussions with classmates, online learning isn’t for you. Often, in an on-campus class, a group sits in back of the room, takes notes, and never talks. In online classes, you must interact. Students cannot avoid being dragged into conversations because...

Read the rest of the article here.

Distance Learning: A New Way To Get Your Degree

2007-06-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

Do you long to go back to school, but live miles away from the nearest university? Are you a busy working professional with time constraints? Then Distance Learning may be the answer!

Distance education used to mean getting courses via snail mail or on videotape. Well, today you are in the right place at the right time. Distance education is a reality for anyone interested in continuing their education or stepping up their career.

What distance education now means is that you can access educational programs and not have to physically be in a classroom on a campus. Through such technologies as cable or satellite television, videotapes and audiotapes, fax, computer modem, computer conferencing and videoconferencing, and other means of electronic delivery, the classroom comes to you—sometimes even if you’re sitting in your room in your bunny slippers and it’s 2 in the morning.

Read the rest of the article here.

Dispel Some Myths About Online Learning

2007-06-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

Online learning is often one of those “ah-ha” experiences. You think you know about it, but once you get into it you find it is quite different from what you expected. Online learning is still being developed and refined, so some of these myths could be realities if program providers are not offering their students a quality education.

Learning online is easier than learning face-to-face. Nothing gets students into more trouble than thinking they can coast through an online course, pick up a decent grade, and move on to the next class. Once you take your first online class, you will know this is one of the top misconceptions about online education. First-time students often assume that because they don’t sit in class for 3 hours a week they can scratch that time from their to-do list. They can’t. Online students must study the 3 hours a week they would have been in class plus the 2 to 3 hours face-to-face students normally study outside of class. That’s 5 to 6 hours a week per class.

Read the rest of the article here.

Acquisition MBA

2007-06-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

Graduates with an M.B.A. in acquisition are in demand for their skills in the methodologies and techniques for the acquisition and contracting in complex organizations. They are able to analyze the problems associated with mergers and acquisitions. They have the skills to synthesize data and assess relevant quantitative and qualitative information.

As businesses and industries of all sizes expand into new product areas and across national borders around the world, the demand for purchasing agents and buyers is also growing. These purchasing agents and buyers must be able to work with vendors and negotiate prices and contracts in a diverse environment that is being changed by advances in technology and business practices, such as e-commerce.

Read the rest of the article here.

Supply Chain Management MBA

2007-06-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

There are several general career tracks for those pursuing supply chain management M.B.A. degrees. The corporate retail management track focuses on store operations or merchandising. Analytical retail intelligence prepares graduates for market research, analyzing sales trends, and using scanner data.

Overseeing and managing the process of taking raw materials to finished product has changed due to technologies such as electronic commerce, and the traditional ways of managing supply chains are no longer effective. In today’s e-business environment, a supply chain manager must be able to accommodate technical advances that can influence a business outcome positively or, conversely, make a product outmoded in just a few months. Devices such as Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), and Point of Sale (POS) have drastically altered how business is done. Satellite networks link suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retail outlets to customers.

Read the rest of the article here.

Health Care MBA

2007-06-04T08:23:00.000-07:00

A health care M.B.A. will provide students with the skills to manage health care organizations, finances, quality and database management, and health care infrastructure. Along with the latest in business analytics and human resource management skills, courses can include health insurance processing, office management, health care administration, medical terminology, and patient relations.

Health care is a growing field with career opportunities for many people, including M.B.A. graduates. Estimates are that it will constitute 20 percent of America’s GDP by 2011. Pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, insurance companies, financial institutions, and government agencies represent some of the potential employers. The field encompasses biotechnology, medical devices, and health care services, to name a few. Venture investors also are taking notice of the opportunities, with investments of 25 to 30 percent of capital funding. In addition, there are opportunities in licensing and joint venturing.

Read the rest of the article here.

IT Management MBAhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif

2007-06-04T08:22:00.002-07:00

IT management M.B.A. graduates who have a solid foundation in business skills are in demand. For those who have experience with technology, whether in a technology company or a corporation in another business sector, an IT management M.B.A. can be what is needed to move into higher positions. For those who lack technology experience, the IT management M.B.A. offers the leverage needed to open doors into technology management.

In today’s business world, to be competitive means to stay ahead of the information technology (IT) curve. Managers who can run complex intranets as well as interactive Internet sites are integral to any successful company. Computer network security is another big factor in a company’s bottom line, as more and more business is conducted electronically. IT has become a strategic asset that affects an organization’s products, processes, services, management, and customer service. Plus, more computer and information systems managers are asked to make decisions that can affect a company’s success.

Read the rest of the article here.

Marketing MBA

2007-06-04T08:22:00.001-07:00

The competition to attract consumers to an ever-changing marketplace has created a need for people with razor sharp marketing skills. An M.B.A. in marketing is a big boost for those who either want to break into this dynamic part of business or for those who are looking to progress into managerial roles or senior leadership.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s 2004-05 Occupational Outlook Handbook, the demand for marketing, advertising, promotions, and public relations managers is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through 2012. At the same time, the Outlook states that keen competition for jobs in advertising, marketing, promotions, public relations, and sales management is expected. A marketing M.B.A. can be the determining factor in getting those jobs.

Read the rest of the article here.

http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifUp-and-Coming MBA Concentrations

2007-06-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

With the economy up, recruiting for M.B.A. graduates has climbed and is very likely to continue trending upward in 2007, according to the Graduate Management Admission Council’s (GMAC) Corporate Recruiters Survey for 2006-2007. The traditional employers of M.B.A. graduates—consulting, financial services, and consumer goods—are still at the top of the list, but recruiters for marketing, health-care, and biotech companies also are hiring. The National Association of colleges and Employers’ (NACE) Job Outlook 2007 states that manufacturing is aggressive hiring and expects to hire 32.4 percent more M.B.A.'s in 2006-07 than they hired in 2005-06. Real estate, marketing, and investment banking are also up and coming, while on the west coast, the technology sector is specifically growing for M.B.A. graduates.

The report also cites a 15.4 percent increase in service employee hiring. Schools reporting to the M.B.A. Career Services Council say that “recruiting activity is up across nearly all sectors” and that the bellwether recruiting industries are significantly higher than others.

Read the rest of the article here.

The Best Investment: You and Your Career

2007-06-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in a career in business, education, health science, psychology or the behavioral sciences? You can excel in your field with a degree and pursue the career of your dreams.

There are many universities that offer undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate degrees that will launch your career, or provide you the edge you need to get ahead in your field. Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco—there are thousands of campus locations across the nation, and with online degree and distance learning programs, you can be literally anywhere and get your degree.

Making The Choice: What To Look For In A College

Faculty

You want qualified instructors. You want teachers that don’t just talk the talk-they’ve also walked the walk. You want working professionals with years of experience. Many colleges utilize a faculty that brings more than just a textbook and a syllabus to the classroom; they bring professional knowledge and real-world insight into your field. With the right instruction, right out of the gate, you can be learning real-world applications that you can put into action--not just isolated theories.

Read the rest of the article here.

Financing Your MBA

2007-06-04T08:15:00.000-07:00

Now that you’ve made a commitment to get your advanced business degree, the next question is likely to be “How will I finance my MBA?”

The first thing you must decide is whether you will attend school as a full-time or part-time student. About two thirds of business students pursue their degrees as part-time students while continuing to work full-time. Although it will take you longer to earn your degree, the costs are more manageable and the amount of money you’ll need to borrow can be significantly reduced. Another consideration is if you work for a company that offers either full or partial tuition reimbursement to its employees. Some graduate-level business programs are only available to full-time students. If you attend one of these schools, it will not be feasible for you to work full-time. You will need to consider other alternatives to finance your educational expenses.

Your most important expense is tuition and fees. A survey conducted by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators using 2003-04 data estimated that the average total cost of attendance for full-time graduate-level business students was about...

Read the rest of the article here.

MBA Expected Starting Salaries

2007-06-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

ust as recruiting has increased in the United States, M.B.A. salaries also have risen—as have tuition costs, which, at the top end, average about $100,000. M.B.A. graduates want a ROI on the substantial investment in their education, and it looks like they’re getting it. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) puts salaries from the top M.B.A. programs in 2006 at $90,000 and first-year base salaries at $50,000 to $75,000. The report also states that more than 40 percent of new M.B.A. recruits will start their new jobs after graduating at $75,000 and up. The Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) Corporate Recruiters Survey Report estimated the 2006 starting annual base salary for new M.B.A. graduates at $80,809, compared to the $78,040 that graduates got in 2005. All in all, average salaries have steadily gone up at 21 percent for the last seven years. Once M.B.A. students hit seniority levels, their salaries can rise up to 50 percent.

The GMAC Estimated Total Annual Compensation for New M.B.A. Graduates in 2006 compared salaries (including base salary and additional compensation) in different industries:

Read the rest of the article here.

Should You Get Your MBA Online?

2007-06-04T08:07:00.002-07:00

Learning online has become an accepted method of education, and advanced business programs are no exception as they make increased use of distance learning technology. Students are responding to the flexibility of online learning and the fact that they can get an M.B.A. online while keeping their careers on track.

The content of distance learning programs covers a wide range. Many institutions offer hybrid degrees, where students can learn online and also in a traditional class setting.

Online M.B.A. programs offer many advantages, but they're not for everyone. While many distance learning students say they can enhance their careers without disrupting them or their personal lives, others stress the importance of face-to-face learning, especially for business students.

Read the rest of the article here.

GMAT Practice Test

2007-06-04T08:07:00.001-07:00

GMAT® Practice Test

Get the scores top business schools are looking for with a GMAT Practice Test offered by our partner, Peterson’s. Build the confidence that comes with knowing the structure of your test. Just like the actual GMAT, Peterson’s practice tests are computer adaptive, which means they adjust to your skill level after each question. They also help you discover exactly what you still need to study before test day.

See how you’d score if your test was today:
• Take 3 full-length, computer-adaptive GMAT Practice Tests
• Find detailed answers to every question
• Discover what you still need to study
• Get 90 days of access

Read the rest of the article here.

Basics About Getting Your MBA

2007-06-04T08:05:00.000-07:00

The decision to pursue an M.B.A. is a hefty one. Not only do you face significant competition when applying to highly rated programs, but the cost of the degree is considerable. However, as with any well-thought-out business plan, you start with a solid foundation. To get into the M.B.A. program with the best ROI, you must know the basics about the application process. How you prepare your application is key. There are four building blocks: your academic profile, GMAT® score, professional work experience, and your personal qualities.

Academic Profile

The best way to show your intellectual strength is to demonstrate strong classroom achievement and high aptitude. Your ability to excel as an undergraduate student is directly related to your ability to succeed in a graduate program, although your undergraduate specialization will have little effect on admission to a business school. It is not necessary to take undergraduate courses in business administration because most graduate-level business programs offer or require a core curriculum of basic business courses as part of the graduate degree.

Read the rest of the article here.

Advice From Admissions Directors: Your MBA

2007-06-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Considering an advanced degree in business? Wondering how to get started? We went right to the source for information. Here you’ll find advice from the admissions directors of three different universities. They’ve given their perspective on the value of an advanced degree in business, what you should look for when choosing a business program, and what they look for when reviewing business school applications.

Julie R. Barefoot
Assistant Dean of Admissions
Goizueta Business School, Emory University Atlanta, GA

It is ideal if candidates begin considering business school while they are still in college. By doing so, they can begin to prepare by taking courses, such as business statistics and/or calculus. This is beneficial because such courses help students to develop analytical skills—even if they aren’t business, math, or science majors. Also, it is typically easier to take these classes while in college, when one’s quantitative skills are still strong. Along those lines, I encourage college seniors to take the GMAT prior to graduation. The test is valid for five years, and most applicants apply to business school within this time frame.

Read the rest of the article here.

Using Your Artistic Talent in Your Career: Getting an Art Degree

2007-06-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

The field of art and design has come a long way from the days of the great masters. You no longer need a degree in the fine arts to use your inherent creativity to launch a successful career! The digital world has flung the door of the arts wide open—and there are many art degrees that will help you get on the road to success. What interests you? Here are a just a few of the potential art and design degrees available today.

Design and Visual Communication

A Design and Visual Communication Degree will help you learn design fundamentals, lettering and typography, and graphic design. You'll create color composites and renderings, and will be introduced to using computer applications and sophisticated software as design tools. With the skills you gain from this degree, you will be able to create high quality layouts and designs for a variety of clients.

Industrial Design

An Industrial Design degree program falls in the applied visual arts category. It prepares individuals to use artistic techniques to effectively communicate ideas and information to business and consumer audiences via the creation of effective forms, shapes, and packaging for manufactured products. Includes instruction in designing in a wide variety of plastic and digital media, prototype construction, design development and refinement, principles of cost saving, and product structure and performance criteria relevant to aesthetic design parameters.

Read the rest of the article here.

Discover a Rewarding Career in Broadcasting

2007-06-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

The world of broadcasting may look glamorous, but behind that news anchor or radio disc jockey are many, many people that make what you see on the television or hear on the radio possible. So, what does the broadcasting industry consists of? Radio and television stations and networks that create content or acquire the right to broadcast taped television and radio programs. Networks transmit their signals from broadcasting studios via satellite signals to local stations or cable distributors. Broadcast signals then travel over cable television lines, satellite distribution systems, or the airwaves from a station’s transmission tower to the antennas of televisions and radios.

Radio and television stations and networks broadcast a variety of programs, such as national and local news, talk shows, music programs, movies, other entertainment, and advertisements. Stations produce some of these programs, most notably news programs, in their own studios.

This is a competitive industry, particularly in large metropolitan areas. How can you be successful in this field? By having a college degree in broadcasting or a related field, and relevant experience, such as work at college radio and television stations or internships at professional stations. Many entry-level positions are at smaller broadcast stations so you must be willing to change employers, and sometimes relocate, in order to be successful.

Read the rest of the article here.

Profile of a Culinary Professional

2007-06-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

Stephanie Hersh defined her career goal of being a pastry chef at the age of 6 with the gift of a Betty Crocker Easy-Bake Oven.

It was simplistic cause and effect: She produced the sweet offerings from batters, and everyone fluttered around telling her she was “terrific.” She figured this could last her whole lifetime if she just kept on making cake. Her granny lived nearby and regularly let the diminutive yet determined youngster bake alongside her, making family desserts and good, sweet stuff.

Her parents were a harder nut to crack, insisting on scholastic accomplishment, first in her private high school, then in a four-year college. Looking back, she thinks it was the best for her because “I needed to grow up before going to culinary school.” She worked part-time in restaurants, both front of the house and back, making some headway in the cooking hierarchy as she became more experienced.

Read the rest of the article here.

Charting a Successful Culinary Career

2007-06-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

What else can you do with a cooking degree (besides open a restaurant)?

You love to cook; garlic essence smells better to you than an expensive French perfume; your friends and family say you should have a restaurant (well, maybe not your family); and right now you’re seriously studying the choice of the best culinary training you can afford to allow you to live your dream. But it is never too early to contemplate the future, to think about opportunities that will come along after culinary training.

Chef, caterer, pastry cook, and restaurant cook are merely the most familiar four; there are hundreds of jobs in the food industry. You may want to consider preparing for positions in management as executive chef, or sales as catering director, or administration in food and beverage management. Maybe you’ll want to explore developing specialty products—a line of sauces, dressings, or convenience foods, for example—for retail or wholesale markets.

Read the rest of the article here.

Where to Find Culinary Scholarships

2007-06-04T07:49:00.000-07:00

In addition to the schools themselves, a number of organizations award scholarships for culinary education. Read this list carefully before requesting information. Some organizations give scholarships only for very specific purposes. Others give scholarships only for management training or for graduate work.

American Culinary Federation (ACF)

This long-established association of professional cooks has a membership of nearly 20,000 and more than 240 chapters in many cities. In addition to its apprenticeship program, which provides an excellent alternate approach to culinary training, the ACF awards some scholarships on the national level. Contacts at the local level will be able to provide information about any scholarships awarded by a local chapter.

Read the rest of the article here.

The Scholarship Interview

2007-06-04T07:47:00.000-07:00

These interviews can be fun because you may find that you and your interviewer have many experiences and ideas in common. Your interviewer will probably put you at ease quickly.

Your interviewer is interested in learning how well you speak and how well you present yourself. Conversation with you will convey to the interviewer how committed you are to your culinary goals and something about yourself other than your culinary side.

Read the rest of the article here.

Apply for Culinary Scholarships

2007-06-04T07:46:00.000-07:00

Almost all culinary schools award scholarships to truly promising students, so remember to ask for information about each school’s requirements. In addition, many organizations associated with the culinary field award scholarships. You will want to begin addressing the scholarship application process even before you send in your admission application because the scholarship process can take longer than the admission process.

Each organization that provides scholarship aid has its own criteria for making awards, its own application process, and its own time frame. Many of these organizations evaluate applications only once a year. Some do it two or three times a year. Some organizations offer scholarships only for specialized kinds of study or to students with specific talents and characteristics. Others administer a broad range of scholarships. Scholarships awarded by organizations (other than schools) are of two kinds:

Read the rest of the article here.

Finding and Applying for Scholarships

2007-06-04T07:45:00.002-07:00

Culinary training can be expensive—nearly as expensive as attending a private university and sometimes more expensive than attending a public university. Few prospective students can simply pay the bills from their own savings. Some depend on their parents’ generosity to fund their studies. Fortunately, help is available through loans and other financial aid programs and also in the form of scholarships.

Once you have decided which schools are most appealing to you, contact the financial aid office at each to determine exactly what kind of assistance is available. Some schools even have work-study arrangements that allow students to work part-time and study as well.

Read the rest of the article here.

Finding and Applying for Scholarships

2007-06-04T07:45:00.001-07:00

Read the rest of the article here.

Admission Requirements and Process

2007-06-01T10:19:00.000-07:00

Getting into a culinary program or school depends on a number of factors, starting with what kind of schools you’ve chosen. Some schools are very competitive and so can afford to be highly selective about applicants. Others are not so selective and only request that prospective students fill out an application and pay a fee.

Start the application process by gathering information about the program. The application is the first impression an application committee will have of you, so it’s wise to know exactly what the admissions office is asking for and follow their instructions. More competitive schools are likely to ask for a list of documents and information. For four-year and two-year culinary programs, you will be required to submit your high school transcript, letters of reference from professors or employers, and a detailed resume of your culinary experience.

Read the rest of the article here.

Choosing the Right Cooking School

2007-06-01T10:18:00.001-07:00

Deciding on a culinary career might not take much thought, but how do you choose the right school from more than 1,000 postsecondary culinary, restaurant, and hospitality programs?

First, ask yourself some fundamental questions. Why do you want to go to culinary school? Is it to become a chef, hotel manager, pastry artist? Do you want to specialize in a particular style of cooking or region? Where do you want to work? Resorts, restaurants, bakeries, catering? And, finally, what kind of degree do you want? A certificate or diploma can take from one month to two years. An associate degree takes from nine months to two years, and a bachelor’s degree takes four years. Fourteen-week culinary programs and three-week tours to epicurean centers such as France and Italy are at the other end of the scale.

Read the rest of the article here.

The Role of Eduation in a Cooking Career

2007-06-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

Tossing together a little dinner of amaretto shrimp almandine doesn’t overwhelm you. Stuffed puff pastries don’t faze you. You relish the thought of a career standing in front of a hot stove. You are not alone in wanting a culinary career.

The National Restaurant Association notes that an estimated 12.8 million people make the restaurant industry the second-largest industry next to government. Two million more jobs will be added by 2017 for a total of 14.8 people employed in the industry.

The increase is attributed to several factors. For one, more people return from trips to foreign lands where they tried exotic foods and liked what they ate. Secondly, those TV personalities who so casually flip crepes have shown how much fun gourmet cooking can be to watch and to prepare.

Read the rest of the article here.

Culinary Arts Programs

2007-06-01T10:15:00.000-07:00

You'll start with fundamental cooking and knife skills, sanitation and safety, and baking and pastry. As you progress through the program you’ll advance to specialized areas such as garde manger, regional and international cuisine, and purchasing and cost controls. You’ll learn the essentials of the field — how to make a good stock, how to function as part of a team, and what it takes to proficiently carry out the tasks of each work station in a professional kitchen. You’ll become proficient in general studies such as computer literacy, accounting, communications, and psychology. You'll be prepared for entry-level positions such as line cook, pantry cook, grillardin, or assistant baker.

Read the rest of the article here.

The Money Factor: Working and Going To School

2007-06-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

For many students, the decision to attend a community college is often based on financial factors. If you aren’t sure what you want to do or what talents you have, community colleges allow you the freedom to explore different career interests at a low cost. For those students who can’t afford the cost of university tuition, community colleges let them take care of their basic classes before transferring to a four-year institution. Many two-year colleges can now offer you instruction in your own home through cable television or public broadcast stations or through home study courses that can save both time and money. Look into all your options, and be sure to add up all the costs of attending various colleges before deciding which is best for you.

Working and Going to School

Many two-year college students maintain full-time or part-time employment while they earn their degrees. Over the past decades, a steadily growing number of students have chosen to attend community colleges while they fulfill family and employment responsibilities. To enable these students to balance the demands of home, work, and school, most community colleges offer classes at night and on weekends.

Read the rest of the article here.

Getting to Know Your Two-Year College Through a Campus Visit

2007-06-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

The best way to learn about your college is to visit in person. During a campus visit, be prepared to ask a lot of questions.

Talk to students, faculty members, administrators, and counselors about the college and its programs, particularly those in which you have a special interest. Ask about available certificates and associate degrees.

Read the rest of the article here.

Important Factors in a Community College Education

2007-06-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

The student who attends a community college can count on receiving quality instruction in a supportive learning community. This setting frees the student to pursue his or her own goals, nurture special talents, explore new fields of learning, and develop the capacity for lifelong learning.

From the student’s perspective, four characteristics capture the essence of community colleges:

They are community-based institutions that work in close partnership with high schools, community groups, and employers in extending high-quality programs at convenient times and places.
Community colleges are cost effective. Annual tuition and fees at public community colleges average approximately half those at public four-year colleges and less than 15 percent of private four-year institutions. In addition, since most community colleges are generally close to their students’ homes, these students can also save a significant amount of money on the room, board, and transportation expenses traditionally associated with a college education.

Read the rest of the article here.

Advantages of Community Colleges

2007-06-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

wo-year colleges or community colleges, are often called “the people’s colleges.” With their open-door policies (admission is open to individuals with a high school diploma or its equivalent), community colleges provide access to higher education for millions of Americans who might otherwise be excluded from higher education. Community college students are diverse, of all ages, races, and economic backgrounds.

While many community college students enroll full-time, an equally large number attend on a part-time basis so they can fulfill employment and family commitments as they advance their education.

Today, there are more than 1,600 community colleges in the United States. They enroll more than 11 million students, who represent more than 40 percent of all undergraduates in the United States. As you can see, millions of first-time freshmen begin their higher education in a community college.
Community colleges are also referred to as either technical or junior colleges, and they may either be under public or independent control.

Read the rest of this article here.

Criminal Justice: Making Our World a Safer Place

2007-06-01T09:47:00.001-07:00

The field of criminal justice is full of the stewards of our safety--police and corrections officers, employees of the court system, and many others. If you are considering a career in criminal justice, getting a degree can dramatically increase your chances for success.

But what is Criminal Justice? It is the system used by government to maintain social control, prevent crime, enforce laws, and administer justice. Law enforcement (police) courts and corrections are the primary agencies charged with these responsibilities. The fast-paced expansion of all areas of the criminal justice system is creating a demand for skilled workers as never before in local, state, and federal systems. Today's criminal justice system workforce must be knowledgeable and skilled in every component of the system to address the public's demand for protection and services—and having a degree will ensure that you have that knowledge and skill. Job growth is expected to exceed 25% in all of these fields over the next ten years:

• Correctional officers and jailers
• Police and sheriff's patrol officers
• Private detectives and investigators
• Security guards

Read the rest of the article here.

Saving Lives: Working as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

2007-06-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

You’ve pulled over and let ambulances, with their lights flashing, pass you by. But have you ever dreamed of being the hard working lifesavers inside? A career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) might then be just the job for you.

EMTs and paramedics are the first on the scene in any accident or other incident where a person is injured. EMTs not only provide immediate emergency medical treatment—more specialized care can be provided by EMTs with extra training. All of this care is usually performed while transporting the patient to the hospital.

Once an EMT arrives at the scene of an incident, their primary focus is to determine the injured persons condition and medical history. They then provide medical care based on pre-established norms. When possible, emergency medical personnel provide care at the patient’s home or at the scene without taking them to the hospital. However, when more serious medical attention is required, specialized doctors may talk the EMTs or paramedics through the procedures over the radio en route to the hospital.

Read the rest of the article here.

Careers in the Trades: The Basics

2007-06-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

For some people, a day’s work does not count for much if it doesn’t involve getting their hands dirty or breaking a sweat. To these achievers, work means a lot more than wearing a suit and shuffling papers at a desk. If you are a “get-down-to-the-nitty-gritty” kind of person, you might consider a career in auto mechanics, electrical work, carpentry, or law enforcement. Nearly 6,000 vocational school programs are available to give you the information and training you need to break into these and other related fields.

Skilled trade jobs are currently in high demand. Many pay substantially more than four-year degrees. Companies are concerned that they will not have the skilled workers for the future. This is causing a nation-wide shortage, and making careers in trade a hot commodity.

Read the rest of the article here.

Returning To School For Your MBA

2007-06-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

For the returning student, the process of deciding on and applying to school and then earning an advanced business degree is seldom simple. But the good news about being a mature student is that you’ll probably get much more out of it, because there is more of you to take to the classroom—more experience, better judgment, clearer goals, and a greater appreciation for learning. The bad news is that your life will be more “squeezed” than it would have been before you took on all of life’s responsibilities, particularly balancing work and family. In general, however, later is often better than sooner when it comes to getting a graduate-level business degree.

For mature women and men alike, there are many things to consider before upending your life to pursue an advanced business degree. If you are trying to determine if an advanced business degree is really the key to where you want to go, find ways to network with people whose lives and career goals are similar to yours. You might discover that a variety of routes could lead you to your desired goal.

Read the rest of the article.