Online Learning News

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certifications Online

2012-02-03T09:42:00.001-05:00

As businesses adapt to changing times and discover the new possibilities available through advanced technology, the project management professional (PMP) is becoming a key position. Because so many businesses network and outsource in order to reduce costs, the project management professional is essential in creating success for projects of relatively limited duration. By receiving the PMP certification, you can increase your marketability in the management field. This certification can open doors in many venues from product-based companies to technological businesses.

What is a Project Management Professional (PMP)?

The project management professional oversees a project from its inception to its completion. The PMP is responsible for managing money, time and personnel such that a project is able to meet the proposed deadline and stay true to the original budget. Project managers fill their days with meetings, emails and phone calls, as do other managers, but they do not oversee ongoing business objectives, such as the budget of a department—they stay focused on the project.

Each aspect of a project can create challenges. In the first place, the goal has to be established, and this goal needs to strike the balance between creating sizeable progress and abiding by realistic standards. The goal-setting process may also require significant networking within a company in order to satisfy the needs of various departments. In terms of managing time and money, there are always unexpected variables which could delay the completion of a project, but the project management professional has the job of dealing with such variables and moving the project forward such that both the schedule and budget are maintained.

Why is the PMP Important Today?

The Project Management Institute provides credentials in the PMP field and is globally recognized; membership in PMI has vastly grown since the late 90's to the present. This shows that more and more businesses are perceiving the PMP as a crucial addition to the overall work environment. This could be a natural result of the changing landscape of business due to advanced technology.

Businesses are shifting from the long-accepted hierarchical structure to less uniform structures which allow for more rapid adjustments to the needs of consumers and networking partners. In a time when smaller teams with focused goals allow a company to gain an edge in the market, the project management professional has swiftly become a critical player on the scene.

Where Can I Work with a PMP Certification?

Many differing businesses are looking for those with PMP certification—from medical centers to mainstream businesses to IT groups. Positions can range widely from those which focus on operations to those that focus on information. For instance, a large company may have need for a project management professional to oversee expansion projects. These projects may entail careful budgeting, allocation of resources and meetings with lead managers in order to oversee large numbers of people.

In many high-tech companies, the focus is on launching new products ahead of competitors. In this case the project management professional may remain more occupied with planning the project such that there is time for technicians to troubleshoot problems. The PMP may also plan and manage the launch process. While in the past, this position was often adopted by someone on a team and lacked a clear title, these days the PMP certification is increasingly included as a requirement in job listings.

What are the PMP Certification Requirements?

There are two sets of requirements for PMP certification which accommodate differing backgrounds. You can have a four-year degree (a bachelor's degree or an international equivalent of this) and a minimum of 3 years of project management experience that includes 4,500 hours of leading projects. For those who do not have the 4 year degree, at least 5 years of project management experience with 7,500 hours of leading projects is required. Both options additionally require 35 hours of project management education.

Becoming a Project Management Professional (PMP)

The future for a project management professional is looking bright. Since this career designation is relatively new and yet highly popular on the corporate scene, the prospects are great for securing employment and moving up within a company. PMP certification is becoming the rule these days, and this helps the position to gain in prestige. Many varied businesses need project management professionals: this career path holds intriguing possibilities.

In Demand Business Careers in Healthcare

2011-09-07T18:01:00.001-04:00

Check out this post on the My Insider Coach career blog about business careers in healthcare. It provides good information for business professionals looking for new career options.

How Employers View Online Degrees

2011-08-17T15:00:00.000-04:00

When online degrees were a new and emerging division of education, many employers thought that these degrees were not as valid as degrees from brick and mortar institutions. The evolution from distrust to the currently accepted trend has taken time. Naturally, when a new technology is introduced there is bound to be skepticism. These feelings of unrest were most likely compounded when early emerging unaccredited diploma mills interested in making fast money surfaced. Soon, a few accredited colleges and universities began to offer online programs and people began to see the benefits of online learning. Now there are a growing number of online programs and courses offered from a number of legitimate and well-known universities that make it difficult to decipher differences between online and traditional degrees. All of this support adds to the acceptance that is now felt towards someone earning a degree online. Continue reading

Pharmacy Technician Careers and Job Description

2011-07-07T15:39:00.000-04:00

Currently, the future job outlook for pharmacy technicians and aides is strong and growing fast, so now is the time to get involved and see if this career path is something worth investigating.

The career outlook for pharmacy aides is good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the expected increase in job opportunities is 25% to 2018. This is a faster than average for all occupations. This is due to the ever-aging population requiring more prescription drugs and the possibilities for the increase in health prescription drug coverage. Job creation will be made to replace people leaving this occupation as they advance. The average yearly income is fairly competitive considering the qualifications can be minimal compared to some other careers. Continue reading here.

8 Fastest Growing Allied Health Professions

2011-05-13T15:54:00.005-04:00

There are many incentives to begin a allied health related career. Well over 13 million workers are already employed in the healthcare field according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and job creation is projected to grow 20% by 2014 – that translates to long-term job security.

The majority of these positions will be in a sector of health care called Allied Health. Reviewing the expected employment growth and average salary of the top 8 allied health careers should help assist in determining which path to choose.

Top Seven Healthcare Careers to Consider Entering

2011-04-21T17:29:00.000-04:00

1. Audiology: Audiology professionals help people who have ear defects, diseases and injuries that lead to hearing loss, balance problems and related difficulties. Earning a bachelor’s degree in this field can qualify you as an audiology technician, while becoming an audiologist requires a Master's Degree in Audiology or doctorate.

Average Annual Salary, Audiologist: $40,360 - $98,880*

2. Nursing: Registered nurses (RNs) perform the bulk of day-to-day nursing duties, from evaluating patients to providing front-line care. To become an RN you must earn at least an associate’s degree in nursing and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Those who plan to elevate their careers into administration or advanced nursing practice often complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.

Average Annual Salary, Registered Nurse: $43,410 - $92,240*

3. Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapists help patients with injuries, diseases or age-related problems recover or improve their everyday living and working abilities. A Master of Science (MS) in Occupational Therapy is required to practice this profession.

Average Annual Salary, Occupational Therapist: $42,820 - $98,310*

4. Pharmacy: There are two levels of pharmacy work: pharmacy technicians and pharmacists. Pharmacy technicians typically earn pharmacy certificates or associate’s degrees in pharmacy. If you want to become a pharmacist, you will need to first earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field – such as biology or chemistry – and then complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree program.

Average Annual Salary, Pharmacist: $77,390 - $131,440*

5. Physical Therapy: Like occupational therapists, physical therapists treat patients with injuries, diseases or age-related problems. Their goal is usually to help those patients recover normal or close-to-normal use of a damaged physical ability. A Master of Science (MS) in Physical Therapy is required to practice this profession.

Average Annual Salary, Physical Therapist: $50,350 - $104,350*

6. Physician Assistant: Physician assistants (PAs) provide diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic healthcare services as delegated by a medical doctor (MD). They are sometimes the principal care providers in small rural or inner-city clinics where the availability of MDs is limited. PA programs typically take at least two years to complete and require previous healthcare experience, a college degree, or both to enroll.

Average Annual Salary, Physician Assistant: $51,360 - $110,240*

7. Radiologic Technology: Radiologic technologists perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The education requirements can be met at the certificate, associate's degree or bachelor’s degree level; those with Radiologic Technologist Associate's Degree or higher typically have access to better positions and higher salaries.

Average Annual Salary, Radiologic Technologist: $35,100 - $74,970*

All salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook*, 2010-2011 Edition

Receent Articles on In-Demand Degrees and Top Paying Careers

2011-04-04T16:24:00.000-04:00

If you are in the process of picking a major, starting a new job or considering a next career. U.S News University Directory has recently published several new articles that can help individuals identify in-demand and top-paying fields that have projected growth well into the future.

Research top careers and degree programs

Training Times & Starting Salaries for 6 Top Jobs
It could take mere months or it could take many years to achieve your dream job, but whether you're starting out in an entry-level position or setting your sights on higher-levels of the ladder, you can expect to undergo some amount of training.

The Highs and Lows: Choosing a Degree That Pays You Back
5 majors that will get you ahead and 5 that could leave you in major debt

How to Pick the Best College for You (and Your Wallet)
Students applying to college and for financial aid are being hit with a double whammy right now: Acceptance letters and financial aid packages. Here's some advice on how to handle it.

No-GMAT MBA Programs and No-GRE Master’s Degree Programs Gaining Popularity
Examination of the increasing interest in no-GMAT MBAs and no-GRE master’s degrees, especially among working adults.

Take Advantage of Lower-Cost Education Options
Explore five careers you can enter by completing relatively inexpensive accredited associate's degrees and certificate programs

Allied Health Education and Careers

2011-03-14T15:27:00.000-04:00

Allied Health Education Grows

Both allied health workers and training are in great demand. The need for professionals with allied health degrees and certificates is expected to grow significantly over the next ten years. To help individuals looking for information about these emerging careers and related education programs U.S News University Directory has launched a new section dedicated to the topic. The area highlights some of the most popular degree and certificate categories that are offered on-campus or through allied health distance learning programs. Some of the most in-demand programs that are now available from top schools and colleges include medical transcription training, pharmacy assistant programs and audiology degrees.

The section also contains overviews of a large collection of Allied health careers and job profiles. Each career page provides a full job description, education requirements, earnings outlook and a video overview for some of the most sought after allied health professions.

In addition to education and career information there is also allied health news and topical articles to keep readers informed about the latest trends in allied health care employment and education.

New Education Programs Available

2011-02-14T14:26:00.000-05:00

The U.S. News University Directory recently added several new categories to the online education portal. New categories are focused on degree programs that are in demand or projected to be be in demand by employers over the next decade.

The combination of industries needing educated and skilled workers and the growing numbers of adults looking to advance their education and earning power. Has fueled the creation of many new educational programs in fields like healthcare, business and technology. Many of these new offerings are available partially or totally online.

A sample of the recent additionas includes:

State of the Union 2011 Emphasizes Education and Jobs

2011-01-31T11:51:00.000-05:00

Last weeks State of the Union address highlighted the need to support and encourage education and innovation in order to create jobs and prepare the workforce of the future. For an in-depth look at what the President said and what it means to students and adult learners read the following articles from U.S. News University Directory.

Where Will the Jobs Come From in the Next 10 Years
Promoting private sector job growth and restoring American competitiveness were at the centerpiece of President Obama’s 2011 State of the Union Address on Jan. 25.

Making College Education Accessible and Affordable
In his 2011 State of the Union address, President Obama stressed the importance of increasing the quality and availability of education.

"We Do Big Things"
In his State of the Union 2011 address, the President spoke plainly about what America must do to compete in the 21st Century.

January 2011 In-Demand Careers Spotlight

2011-01-18T15:24:00.001-05:00

Human Resource Managers - With 22% job growth projected during the next decade and average earnings ranging from $74, 000 to over $124, 000 it is easy to see why human resources is an in-demand field.

More In-Demand High-Paying Careers

Public Relations Manager - Over 13% job growth expected and yearly earnings potential of $125,000 or more.
Physical Therapist Jobs - Strong demand through 2018 and average earnings between $62,000 and $87,000 a year.
Market Research Analyst Careers - Job growth estimates of 26% over the next 8 to ten years and yearly salary between $44,000 and $85,000 qualify market analyst as a hot career.

Watch Career Videos

2010-12-20T15:04:00.010-05:00

U.S. News University Directory has a new career section that provides students and adult learners detailed information about top jobs and job fields. Career pages include job descriptions, job summaries, an overview of the work environment, training and educational requirements and job projections and salary potential.

In addition to the job overviews and outlook information each includes a career video that provides additional information about the job or profession.

Recently added careers:

Medical Assistants Jobs strong job growth will occur as the result of the growth and aging of the population and associated demand for healthcare.

Accountants Jobs the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that accountants and auditors will experience 22% employment growth through 2018.

Environmental Scientist Jobs annual income for environmental scientists and specialists was about $61,010 in May 2009.

Special Education Teachers the number of special education teachers is expected to increase by 17% through 2018.

Comparing College Costs: How to Get the Most for Your College Dollar

2010-12-06T11:57:00.000-05:00

The economy is recovering – slowly. Too slowly for most of those who lost their jobs in the recent recession to have seen any practical benefits yet. What’s more, the severity of the downturn has demonstrated that having any old job is not enough to ensure financial security. You have to have the right kind of job.

This growing realization among American workers has led to a huge interest in education. If you’re considering going back to school, you are probably wondering how to get the most for your college tuition – especially if you have work, family and other responsibilities.

You want to know if accredited online colleges are as good as their campus-based counterparts, and if online college courses can really save you a lot of money. You might also be wondering if you can accomplish your educational goals at a two-year community college, or if you’re better off pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a four-year school.

Here’s some critical information on each of your choices, and some numbers to help you compare prices:

Accredited Online Colleges vs. Campus-Based Colleges

First and foremost, a word of advice: Unless you are attending a vocational/technical program, don’t even consider on-campus or online schools that lack regional accreditation. Sure they’re cheap, but unaccredited colleges can cause students a variety of problems, including the inability to transfer credits from one school to another. That said, earning an online college degree can be a valid choice – just make sure that the institution you choose is certified by one of the six regional U.S. accrediting bodies.

Surprisingly, the cost of tuition at accredited online colleges is not all that different from what traditional public universities charge in-state students: both run about $250 - $300 per credit hour. Recent studies by The College Board report that once you add in other fees, this translates to roughly $7,500 per year.* However, the cost of tuition at accredited online colleges is significantly better than what public universities charge out-of-state students (about $12,000 per year) or the cost of a private college (about $27,000 annually).

Where you can really save money by studying online is in housing and transportation costs. Distance learning students do not have to pay dorm fees, purchase meal plans or drive to class – which, depending on your living situation, can mean big savings.

Community Colleges vs. Four-Year Colleges

Fortunately for America’s collective pocketbook, workers can enter many of the fastest-growing careers with an associate’s degree. Nursing and web design are excellent examples; even though higher degrees exist for both of these booming professions, an Associates in Nursing (ADN) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Web Development can qualify you for entry-level positions in their respective fields.

At about $2,700 per year, the cost in tuition and fees of a two-year community college is significantly less than that of a public or private four-year school. If the career you want to enter requires only an associate’s degree, it definitely makes financial sense to earn it at a community college. And even if you’re planning on getting a bachelor’s, completing your first two years at the local community college can be a great way to save some money.

Final Thoughts

What four-year schools offer that community colleges and online colleges generally don’t is the “college experience” – sports, parties, dorm life, fraternities, sororities, etc. This is an important consideration for many younger students, and if you’re one of them then four years at a traditional college can be well worth the extra expense. On the other hand, working adults with families are seldom concerned about frat parties and football games, so an online school or community college is often a better choice.

Ultimately you will have to take the facts you’ve learned here, judge them in relation to your lifestyle and how much you can afford, and make the best decision you can. What’s most important is that you get a solid education from an accredited school so that you can land secure, lucrative employment once you graduate.

*Trends in College Pricing, 2010

5 Signs Your Online College Might Be a Diploma Mill

2010-11-23T14:35:00.000-05:00

So you want to attend class from the comfort of your bedroom or home office, do you? I don’t blame you. When I was in college I would have given anything to trade my 8 am American Literature course for an online education option. I mean seriously; on a cold morning, who wouldn’t rather study Faulkner while wrapped in a leopard-print microfiber blanket and sipping hot coffee?

Online college degrees are more than just the newest trend in education. They are fundamentally reshaping the way we learn. In a 2009 report, the Sloan Consortium noted that enrollment in online degree programs had increased by 17%, which is over six times faster than the growth of the general college student population*.

But not all such programs are created equal. There are a few things you should know before breaking out the coffee mug and silly (but exceptionally comfortable) blanket.

Most online education is provided by legitimate institutions that reward hard work with a valuable degree. But some do lack regional accreditation, which can make it difficult to transfer credits or get employers to recognize your achievement. And a few are outright scams – often called “diploma mills” – that sell fake, useless degrees.

In the interest of keeping your money – or even more importantly, your lender’s money – out of the hands of these con artists, here are five signs that the institution you’re considering might be a diploma mill:

1. It is accredited by Bob’s Discount Accrediting Emporium. The seven regional U.S. accrediting bodies are the only accrediting organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. They are the:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
New England Association of Colleges and Schools
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (Community and Junior Colleges)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (Senior Colleges and Universities)

These associations do accredit online colleges and universities, as long they meet the same standards that are set for campus-based schools. But if a degree-granting institution instead touts credentials from some other group – or no group at all – then it almost certainly is not regionally accredited.

At best, non-accredited colleges and universities will provide you with credits that are very hard to transfer to other institutions, and credentials that many employers don’t consider legitimate. At worst they will take your money and give you nothing in return but a sham degree that is worth less than the paper it’s printed on.

Trade and vocational schools, which are not eligible for regional accreditation, are an exception to the “always choose a regionally accredited school” rule. They are typically certified by a national, field-specific accrediting body. Legitimate culinary schools, for example, are accredited by the American Culinary Federation Foundation Accrediting Commission.

2. There is no need to study, attend classes or take exams. Believe it or not, this is a common promise made by diploma mills. Instead of requiring you to do all of that annoying learning, they offer to grant you an online college degree based on “life experience” – which they’ll never bother to checking into, of course. To a diploma mill, the person who has spent the last 10 years running a business is no different from someone whose professional life is limited to hair-net-and-name-tag jobs. You send them your money, you get your fake degree. End of story.

3. It offers free express delivery. As a rule, legitimate colleges do not pride themselves on fast delivery. It’s one of the ways a real degree is different from, say, pizza.

4. You’re told you will earn more in a few short weeks. Gaining something valuable with little or no effort is the most common scam in the world – just check your email account’s spam bin. Diploma mills love to promise huge leaps in income and quick promotions for those who purchase their degrees, but they never deliver. Almost all major employers – and most smaller ones, too – are now aware of diploma mills and the worthless degrees they sell. Trying to pass off such fake credentials is likely to get you fired by your current employer rather than hired by a new one.

5. It claims you are pre-approved for financial aid. Approval for financial aid like Pell Grants and subsidized student loans comes from the government, not a school. No college or university can pre-approve you for this kind of assistance. When diploma mills and low-quality unaccredited schools advertise pre-approval, it means that they approve of you using your credit card, rent money and little brother’s piggy bank to pay them for a worthless degree.

Now, all that said, you should remember that there are many legitimate online degree programs out there. Even traditional on-campus students are now often encouraged to take a few courses online. The flexibility and affordability such programs offer can be a huge advantage, especially to adult learners who have family, work and other responsibilities.

Just make sure that the online school you choose is regionally accredited, and you should be okay. The degree you earn will have real workplace value, though it is unlikely to be delivered in 30 minutes or less.

*Learning on Demand: Online Education in the United States, 2009

Understanding Online Education and Choosing the Right Type of Program

2010-11-19T10:54:00.007-05:00

Not all online college courses and web-based education programs are the same. Some use different tools and methods than others, and even those that use the same ones often do so in different ways. So once you’ve decided to study online, how do you determine which type of distance learning is right for you?

Continue reading How to Choose the Right Type of Online Education to learn about the different methods used in online learning and understand which is best for your situation. Read more now.

How to Know if You’d Be a Good Special Education Teacher

2010-11-05T13:11:00.000-04:00

Thanks to medical advances and better awareness, children with disabilities are being diagnosed earlier and placed in educational programs that can maximize their potential. This has led to a greater demand for special needs teachers; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment in the field to grow by 17% through 2018.

But how do you know if special education is the career for you? Here a five characteristics shared by almost all teachers who are successful in this field:

1. Certification. All 50 states and the District of Columbia require teaching certificates – attained by earning a bachelor’s degree in education and successfully passing the state’s teaching exam – to enter the field of special education. Most also insist on additional training geared toward instructing special needs children. Exactly what type of advanced education is necessary for licensure varies from state to state; some require certificate courses that take less than a year to complete, while others insist on a master's in special education that can take over two.

2. Patience. Many special needs children can learn at a normal pace – some even faster. However, those with certain disabilities can have a much harder time, taking weeks or months to master even simple tasks. Other special needs students have emotional problems that make learning difficult not only for themselves, but for others around them as well. Vast patience is essential for special education teachers when working with such students.

3. Stress management. Long workdays, near-constant administrative duties and students who can be extremely difficult on a daily basis make special education a challenging career. In order to be successful at it, you must be able to handle high stress levels and find ways to manage the personal and professional struggles that come with working in this field.

4. Commitment. Obviously, being a special needs teacher is not an easy job. And unfortunately, many positions in this field don’t pay as well as they should. In order to find lasting success in special education, you must be committed to the profession. Helping special needs children learn should be a reward for you in and of itself. If not, the financial compensation alone can seem insufficient considering the stress and difficulty inherent to the career.

5. Interpersonal skills. Special needs children often have a wide range of people working on their behalf. These can include parents, foster parents, other relatives or caregivers, state agencies, doctors, psychologists, social workers and more. You should be able to establish positive relationships with all such individuals and work closely with them to maximize your student’s learning potential.

3 Information Technology Degrees That Will Still Be Critical in 2018

2010-11-01T11:58:00.001-04:00

Over the past 20 years, computers and the Internet have grown to become a huge part of almost every major industry in America. In fact, the field of information technology (IT) is now an industry unto itself – one that generates hundreds of billions of dollars a year. But the IT world changes rapidly; computer programming degrees held immense value 10 years ago, but now they are largely considered obsolete.

So if you’re looking to go into this field, how do you know what kind of IT degree to pursue? Well, no one can say with 100% accuracy what the job market will look like in the future. But based on current trends and growth, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is confident that three types of IT degrees will still be critical to the industry through 2018:

1. Network technology and network security. The growth of the IT industry brought linked computer systems called networks to millions of businesses, government offices and other organizations. Network technology professionals maintain such computer systems, while network security professionals protect them from computer viruses, hacking attempts and other threats. The two fields often overlap, and small organizations typically employ one person to handle both jobs.

IT degrees that can lead you to a network technology or network security job include an AAS in IT Security, a BS in Network Technology and an MBA in Network and Communications Management. The BLS estimates much faster than average job growth in this part of the IT field through 2018.

2. Software engineering. Over the past decade, software engineering has slowly replaced computer programming as the preferred IT development skill set. Software engineers create, test, maintain and update the software that allows computers to perform their functions. However, software engineers do more than code in a computer language; they are often responsible for all phases of software design and development.

IT degrees that can help you enter the software engineering field include an AA in Information Systems, a BS in Software Architecture and an MS in Software Engineering. The BLS predicts that there will be much faster than average job growth in this part of the IT field through 2018.

3. Web development. Web developers – sometime called web designers – create websites for businesses, individuals, news organizations and anyone else who wants a presence on the Internet. There are hundreds of millions of active websites today, and that number is only growing. HTML skills are essential for web developers, and knowledge of other markup languages and applications (such as XML and XHTML) can be important as well.

IT degrees that can help you secure a web development position include an AAS in Web Development, a BS in Information Systems – Web Development and an MA in Web Design. As with network technology and software engineering, the BLS estimates that there will be much faster than average job growth in this part of the IT field through 2018.

Busting the Top 5 Myths About Online Bachelor’s Degrees

2010-10-25T11:02:00.005-04:00

More people than ever are taking online classes. A 2009 report by the Sloan Consortium indicates that over 4.6 million students took at least one online course in 2008 – a 17% increase over the year before. That greatly exceeds the 1.2% growth rate of the overall college student population*.

And yet rumors about distance learning – many of them quite negative – abound. So here are the top five myths about earning an online bachelor’s degree – busted!

1. Online bachelor’s degree programs aren’t accredited. There are certainly some distance learning programs that lack accreditation, so the first thing you need to know about any online school you’re considering is whether or not it is certified by one of the six national U.S. accrediting bodies. This is called regional accreditation, and it’s the highest form of accreditation a college or university can posses. Many online schools are regionally accredited, especially those associated with traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Just make sure the one you select is among them.

2. Credits earned online won’t transfer to a campus-based program. One of the main reasons to choose an accredited online bachelor’s degree program is to make sure you can transfer your credits if necessary. One accredited school will typically accept credits from another – up to a point. Each institution sets its own limits on transfer credits; some accept an unlimited amount, but many set a maximum. Regardless, credits earned from an accredited online school should transfer just as well as those from an accredited on-campus school.

3. Employers don’t recognize online bachelor’s degrees. This particular myth held some truth at one time, but no longer. An Excelsior College/Zogby International survey released in 2008 found that 83% of CEOs and small business owners who were familiar with distance learning strongly agreed that a degree earned online was just as credible as one earned through a traditional campus-based program**. Once again, accreditation is the key; if your online bachelor’s degree comes from an accredited institution, a significant majority of employers will accept it.

4. Online courses are less challenging. This is simply not true. Accredited distance learning institutions offer a wide variety of undergraduate programs - including bachelor's degrees in healthcare administration, BS degree's in software engineering and online degree's in web development - that require discipline and hard work. You will be expected to keep up with the same course material as students who attend on-campus classes, and you must do so without constant reminders from an instructor. Online education provides a great deal of flexibility in when and where your do your coursework, but it places the responsibility for success squarely upon your shoulders.

5. Online students can’t interact with their instructors or peers. Also patently false. At minimum, you will engage your instructors and advisors through email. But more often than not, online education involves participation in chat rooms, group projects and Internet forums. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) software such as Skype and Ventrilo is also frequently used, allowing real-time voice communication over the Web. Today, most distance learning programs do not merely encourage interaction – they require it.

*Learning on Demand: Online Education in the United States, 2009
**Online Degrees Earn Wider Acceptance in the Business World, Excelsior College 2008

4 Crucial Tips on Transferring Your Community College Credits

2010-10-11T09:54:00.004-04:00

Completing your first two years of school at a community college is a sound financial decision. The College Board notes in a recent article that in-state students can expect their public two-year college to cost about $2,544 per year in tuition and fees, compared to $7,020 at a public four-year college*. That’s an impressive savings that eliminates a lot of potential debt.

However, you might worry about having to transfer your credits when you’re ready to continue working on your on-campus or online bachelor's degree at a four-year school. Thankfully, the process is now fairly straightforward. Here are some tips on how to make transferring your credits to a bachelor’s program go smoothly:

Before Starting Community College

1. Make sure the community college you attend is regionally accredited. Regional accreditation – the highest form of accreditation in the country – is vitally important. Colleges and universities that are certified by one of the six regional U.S. accrediting agencies meet rigorous Department of Education standards, and credits earned at one such school can usually be transferred to another. On the other hand, most regionally accredited on-campus and online bachelor’s programs will not accept transfer credits from a non-accredited college.

2. See if your community college cooperates with any four-year institutions. Many community colleges are closely associated with nearby public four-year colleges, and might have established articulation agreements with them. Such agreements guarantee that most or all of the credits earned at the community college will transfer to the four-year college, and also make transferring credits between the two schools much faster and easier. If at all possible, choose a community college that has an articulation agreement with a four-year school that a) offers the on-campus or online bachelor’s program you want to pursue, and b) you are actually interested in transferring to.

When You Are Ready to Transfer

3. Meet advisors and admissions officers from several colleges. Once you know which four-year schools you’re interested in attending, contact an advisor at each of them and set up a meeting (phone meetings are acceptable when necessary, but face-to-face is much better). These advisors will be able to tell you what requirements their school places on transfer students, such as a minimum GPA or standardized test score. They should also be able to tell you about their institution’s bachelor’s programs – or direct you to those who can – so that you’ll be able to choose the one that’s best for you.

4. Explore online bachelor’s degree program options. For many students – especially adults with work and/or family responsibilities – an online bachelor’s program offers the combination of affordability and flexibility they need. Such programs are usually less expensive than their on-campus counterparts and can be adapted to fit almost any schedule. To make sure you choose a legitimate online bachelor’s program that will provide you with the degree you need, learn these nine essential tips for students taking online courses.

Popular Associate Degree Programs

Associate's in Business Management
Management Information Systems (MIS) AA Degrees

*What It Costs to Go to College, The College Board (Accessed September 2010)

How to Select an Online PhD Degree Program

2010-10-08T10:15:00.006-04:00

Given the extended study and intensive work required to earn a doctoral degree, only 1% of Americans attain this prestigious credential. Online PhD degree programs are becoming a popular option for professionals who wish to earn a doctorate while maintaining a full-time job. Achieving a doctoral degree can have a tremendous impact on your career; however, it's important to do your research before choosing among the PhD degree programs available online.

What Is an Online PhD Degree Program?
In these advanced program, students lean in a virtual classroom via the Web instead of meeting face-to-face in a campus-based classroom. Many of those pursuing online PhD's currently work in their field of study to meet the requirement for hands-on experience. Pursuing a PhD Online allow for greater flexibility in scheduling class time around work and personal obligations.

Earning a PhD degree online may take between four to six years to complete, depending on your course of study and dissertation topic, and whether you are enrolled full-time or part-time. In most PhD programs, a panel of three to five professors oversee your academic progress and evaluate your dissertation.

What to Look for in a Web Based PhD Program
As with any degree program, your focus should be on the quality of your education. Following are key considerations in choosing a school for an online Doctorate level degree program:

1. Accreditation: Look for colleges and universities that have been accredited by one of the agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). These accrediting bodies have a strict evaluation process in place to ensure that schools incorporate sound teaching methods and exceptional faculty to deliver a high-quality education. Accreditation is important, as many employers will only consider candidates that have completed online degree programs from an accredited institution. Verify that the schools you are considering are approved by one of the recognized agencies listed on the DOE website.

2. Beware of Fraudulent Claims: Watch out for "diploma mills" that claim you can earn a PhD online in weeks or months, using work or life experience in lieu of coursework. All legitimate, accredited, degree programs will require you to complete relevant courses and a dissertation. If a company demands full payment for the total cost of the program upfront and provides a P.O. box instead of a physical address, it is likely to be a scam.

Online Doctorate in Business Administration
Doctoral Degrees in Education Leadership
Technology Management PhD Degrees
PhD Degrees in Healthcare

3. Recognized Faculty: Take the time to review the credentials of the faculty for the PhD degree programs you're considering. Do they have doctoral degrees and industry experience? Are they recognized as leaders in their field? Have they published important works in well-known journals? You'll want to make sure you're learning from the best, and that you'll have ongoing communication with them. It's important to establish a rapport with the faculty on your advisory committee. Also, you should look to see if mentoring programs are available.

4. Professional Affiliations: Check with the licensing agencies or professional groups associated with your field of study to see if they endorse your school and its online PhD or Doctorate degree program.

5. Program and Course Availability: Review the academic calendar for the degree programs you're considering. How many terms are offered each year? How long is each session? Are your required courses available every term, or only at certain times of the year? These are important questions to answer when determining how long it will take to complete your PhD degree online program.

6. Financial Assistance: Of course, financing is a major consideration in any educational decision. In addition to the cost of tuition, you may also need to pay for books, supplies, lab fees, travel (if necessary) and other expenses. The schools you're considering should have financial aid information listed on their website. Do they offer scholarships, fellowships or grants? If your PhD program is offered by a regionally accredited university, you may be eligible for federal grants or loans. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid online to determine your eligibility.

Whatever your personal and professional goals, earning a PhD degree online can help you advance your career and achieve greater success. Do your research and choose your PhD online degree program wisely to ensure your place among the most influential leaders in your field.

9 Essential Tips for Students Taking Online Courses

2010-10-05T11:09:00.003-04:00

Web-based education has come of age; according to a 2009 report by the Sloan Consortium, over 4.6 million students took at least one online course in 2008*. That’s 17% growth over the previous year, which greatly exceeds the 1.2% increase in the overall college student population. Many of those pursuing online education are working adults, who find that the flexibility of web-based classes allows them to schedule their coursework around work and family responsibilities.

If you want to take online courses, here are nine essential tips to remember:

Preparation

1. Choose an accredited school. The importance of regional accreditation – the highest form of accreditation in the country – cannot be stressed enough. Colleges and universities that are certified by one of the six regional U.S. accrediting agencies meet the rigorous standards set by the Department of Education, and credits earned at one regionally accredited school can usually be transferred to another. Perhaps even more importantly, degrees and certificates from accredited institutions are generally considered more trustworthy by prospective employers.

Online schools are no different. Select one that is regionally accredited to make sure that you receive a quality education, that the credits you earn are transferable and that the credentials you graduate with are considered legitimate.

2. Meet the system requirements. Different online education programs require different levels of technology. Some will run fine on older computers and with slower Internet access, while others require newer systems and high-speed cable connections. Either choose online courses that will run on your existing computer, or make sure you can afford to upgrade to the appropriate system requirements.

3. Submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Financial aid is available, especially to first-time students and low-income students. You can download a free financial aid guide from U.S. News University Directory that contains the FAFSA. Once you have it, fill out the required information and then send it in. The Department of Education will use your completed FAFSA forms to determine how much aid – including grants and subsidized student loans – you qualify for.

Studying

4. Balance your responsibilities. In all likelihood, one of the reasons you chose to earn your degree or certificate online is because of the flexibility that distance learning provides. To take full advantage of this, create a schedule that allocates time for each of your responsibilities. For students with families, this might mean that you study after the kids have gone to bed – perhaps 9 pm to 11 pm every week night. If you are a working student, you might want to do your coursework in the after-dinner hours, or maybe on Saturday afternoons. The goal is to create a schedule that consistently helps you meet all of your commitments.

Also, make sure the people in your life understand the importance of the time you set aside for coursework. Spouses, children, roommates and others should know when your study time is and that they are not to disturb you during it.

5. Manage your time wisely. The instructor of your online class will probably never give a pop quiz just to make sure you’re keeping up. It is your responsibility – and yours alone – to stay on top of assignments, participate in discussions and projects, and make sure your are ready for exams. Getting behind is a recipe for failure; online courses generally move fast, so missing even one or two study sessions can make it extremely difficult to get back on track.

The time that you schedule for your coursework should be spent actually doing that coursework. Your chances of success are greatly increased if you complete each week’s assignments on time.

6. Find good study space. The place you choose to do your online learning must have a computer with an Internet connection. Beyond that, it should also be clean, comfortable and free of distractions. A home office that can be closed off from the rest of your house is ideal, and a desk in your bedroom is almost as good. A spot at the kitchen or dining room table can work if you live alone, but if you have a family or roommates such high-traffic areas often leave you prone to interruptions. Avoid the living room and any other space that is loaded with tempting distractions like television, music and video games.

7. Ask lots of questions. You will probably interact with your instructor and fellow students through email, and might use a variety of other methods to communicate as well. Web forums, chat rooms and VoIP applications (such as Skype) are all common in the online learning environment. Take advantage of these tools to ask plenty of questions.

Your instructor should be an authority on the subject you’re studying, and you’re paying for access to their knowledge and experience. Any time you have a question or need something clarified, take the time to ask about it. If you can do so in a group environment such as a chat room, so much the better. Other students in your online course might well be wondering about the same thing!

8. Learn the subject thoroughly. Too many students learn what they need to know to pass necessary exams, then promptly forget the information once they receive their degree or certificate. Only later do they discover that prospective employers expect them to have a thorough understanding of their field, leaving them unprepared to compete in the job market.

While you’re earning your credentials online, take the time to learn each subject thoroughly. Read your course materials completely, ask your instructors and fellow students lots of questions, and practice what you learn to ensure you retain the information. When the time comes to enter the job market with your new skills, you’ll be confident that you’re more than a match for other job-seekers!

Taking Advantage

9. Update your resume. Once you have the education you need, update your resume immediately. This includes online resumes you might have on job search websites like Monster.com or CareerBuilder.com. Use these tools to pursue entry-level jobs (or higher positions, if you think you can get them) aggressively. Find out which format each potential employer prefers to receive resumes in – mail, email, or perhaps in person – and then submit yours to them that way. And attend job fairs whenever you can; they are an excellent way to meet the people who actually do the hiring at the organizations you’re interested in!

*Learning on Demand: Online Education in the United States, 2009 (released January 2010)

The Top 5 Moneymaking Degrees You Can Earn Online

2010-10-04T12:22:00.002-04:00

The information age is revolutionizing the way we do almost everything, from watching movies and playing games to communicating with our families and business partners. Education is no different; the Sloan Consortium reports that over 4.6 million students took online college courses in 2008 – that’s 17% growth over the previous year*. But if you’re going to study online, which degree programs are best?

1. Business programs, including Master of Business Administration (MBA). Online college courses in business work well because business classes do not generally involve hands-on lab work that requires face-to-face instruction. Instead, business majors often acquire their practical experience through jobs and internships. Online MBA programs are excellent for working adults who want to take their business career to the next level, but can’t attend regular classes because of work and family commitments.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that business management analysts earned between $41,910 and $133,850 in 2008, depending on location, experience and the type of company at which they worked**.

2. Nursing programs, including Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The BLS estimates that nursing will expand by 22% through 2018, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth has created enormous demand for nursing education, so many schools have introduced online college courses in this field. A large number of nurses attain registered nurse (RN) licensure through associate’s degree programs, but later decide to earn a BSN so they can advance their careers. This has made online RN to BSN programs very popular.

The BLS reports that RNs earned between $43,410 and $92,240 in 2008, depending on location, experience and the type of facility in which they worked**.

3. Information technology (IT) programs. The IT field naturally lends itself to web-based learning, making online college courses in areas like computer programming and software engineering very common. The BLS also estimates that employment for computer software engineers and programmers will expand by 21% though 2018 – including almost 300,000 new software engineering jobs. This kind of growth ensures that more and more schools will add IT programs to their online offerings.

The BLS reports that computer software engineers and programmers earned between $53,720 and $128,870 in 2008, depending on experience, location and the type of company at which they worked**.

4. Healthcare administration programs. Many healthcare workers who begin their careers on the patient care side of the field later decide to move into administration. Because many of them already have work and family responsibilities, the flexible scheduling of online college courses is something they require. This makes web-based healthcare administration programs very popular, and a large number of schools are expanding their offerings in this area to keep up with demand.

The BLS reports that medical and health services managers earned between $48,300 and $137,800 in 2008, depending on experience, location, and the type of facility in which they worked**.

5. Criminal justice programs. The field of criminal justice is considered exciting by many young people. It also attracts those who feel a desire to serve their community, including many former members of the military. Most schools that offer online college courses have criminal justice programs for these reasons. Those who want to become police officers typically pursue an associate's degree, while those who want to work as detectives usually enter bachelor's programs.

The BLS reports that police officers earned between $30,070 and $79,680 in 2008, while detectives made between $36,500 and $114,300 during the same period**.

*Learning on Demand: Online Education in the United States, 2009 (released January 2010)

**Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition (accessed August 2010)

Villanova University and National Association of Government Contractors Announce Partnership and Exclusive Member Savings for Online Certificate Courses

2010-09-14T11:57:00.001-04:00

NAGC Members Can Access Career-Enhancing Certificate Programs 100% Online

TAMPA, Fla., September 13, 2010 – Villanova University recently partnered with the National Association of Government Contractors (NAGC) and is pleased to offer NAGC members exclusive savings of 10% off online contract management certificate courses, or additional savings off the specially priced master certificate programs in government or commercial contract management.

Villanova’s three-course Master Certificate in Government Contract Management thoroughly prepares students to obtain NAGC certification as a Certified Government Contractor (CGC). For those who are already certified, each course counts as four CGC credits toward the continuing education requirements for recertification. Villanova’s 100% online program also prepares professionals for the Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM) and Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) designations offered through the National Contract Management Association (NCMA).

“We are proud to be affiliated with Villanova University and confident that this partnership will bring substantial competitive advantages to contract managers nationwide,” said Simon Brody, Director of Communications for the NAGC. “Professionals who have attained a Villanova master certificate and NAGC certification can prove they have the skills and knowledge required to excel in complex government contract negotiations. They’ll also benefit from valuable networking opportunities and national recognition as an expert in the government contract arena.”

Powered by the University Alliance, a worldwide leader in interactive professional education, Villanova’s 100% online training allows busy professionals to expand their contract management expertise and gain respected university credentials around their demanding schedule. Not only will students receive a handsomely framed Villanova certificate upon completion of each course and the master certificate program, but they’ll also be ready to sit for the NAGC and NCMA certification exams.

Villanova’s Master Certificate in Government Contract Management is a comprehensive, end-to-end program that consists of three courses: Essentials of Government Contract Management, Mastering Business Skills and Advanced Contract Management. Each course builds on the last, helping contract managers to hone critical job skills such as contract budgeting and negotiation, defining and planning contracts, and implementing industry best practices.

Villanova collaborates with University Alliance, the nation’s largest facilitator of online degree and certificate programs, to deliver courses via a flexible, video-based e-learning platform that is accessible 24/7. All programs are led by renowned contract management experts, and students can view their lectures anytime and anywhere via streaming video, MP4 files and CD-ROM. Through communication tools such as shared virtual whiteboards, live chat, message boards, email and two-way voice over IP (VOIP), participants enjoy regular interaction with instructors and peers.

For more information on Villanova’s online contract management certificate programs, please visit http://www.villanovau.com/online-certificates/contract-management.aspx.

To access exclusive NAGC member savings, visit: http://bit.ly/b3LxX8.

National Association of Government Contractors (NAGC)
The National Association of Government Contractors is the nation's largest, most respected trade association representing companies and individuals in the government procurement process. NAGC is an advocate for policies that benefit America's business community in the government procurement process. NAGC provides programs and events that increase business opportunities for member companies. For further information, visit www.governmentcontractors.org.

About Villanova University
Founded in 1842, Villanova University is the worldwide leader in professional education online. A traditional, accredited university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, it has more than 106,000 alumni, NCAA Division I athletic teams, unparalleled academic and technical support, and an outstanding faculty – over 90% of whom hold the highest degrees in their field. Villanova has been ranked the #1 University by U.S. News & World Report in the Master's category/North region for nearly two decades.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Villanova University/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.villanovau.com

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Busy RNs Seeking Online BSN Programs Enjoy the Benefits of Year-Round Admission With Jacksonville University’s CCNE-Accredited School of Nursing

2010-09-14T11:37:00.000-04:00

Jacksonville University Empowers RNs Nationwide to Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree Through Its Online RN to BSN Program and Anytime, Anywhere E-Learning Platform

TAMPA, Fla., September 14, 2010 – As the healthcare industry continues to experience tremendous growth, employers are facing a severe nursing shortage – and many nursing schools have long wait lists as the demand for enrollment exceeds their available openings. However, savvy U.S.-licensed RNs are able to bypass admission waiting lists and obtain an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree online from a CCNE-accredited nursing school. Jacksonville University has emerged as a leader in online nursing education with one of the largest RN to BSN degree programs in the country.

Online RN to BSN programs are following the growing trend in distance learning for higher education. According to a 2009 report published by the Sloan Consortium, 4.6 million students were taking at least one online course during the fall of 2008. Online enrollments experienced a 17% increase from the previous year, exceeding the 1.2% growth of traditional on-campus enrollment.

Nursing students can greatly benefit from the ease of access that online education programs offer, since many of them work full-time while pursuing their degree. "Today’s adult learners are increasingly interested in flexible programs from accredited, nationally recognized schools. They understand the significant impact a university degree can have on their income and appreciate the convenience online nursing school programs afford,” explained Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President of Student Services for the University Alliance, which facilitates the promotion and delivery of Jacksonville University’s online RN to BSN program.

In addition to the flexibility and convenience of online learning, nurses are drawn to Jacksonville University’s online BSN degree program because of its excellent reputation and the fact that it offers six eight-week sessions per year. “RNs can apply to the program at any time and begin their studies within two months of their acceptance, rather than having to wait half a year or longer,” noted Marullier. “They can also be confident in the quality of their education, because Jacksonville University is regionally accredited – which is the highest form of university accreditation available – and its School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).”

Powered by the University Alliance, a worldwide leader in interactive professional education, Jacksonville University’s online RN to BSN program features a proven, video-based e-learning platform. Students can view lectures anytime and anywhere via streaming video or CD-ROM, and enjoy regular interaction with faculty and their fellow classmates through monitored chat rooms, discussion boards and email.

Visit http://www.jacksonvilleu.com to learn more about the online BSN degree program offered to U.S.-licensed RNs worldwide through Jacksonville University’s School of Nursing.

About Jacksonville University
Founded more than 75 years ago in Jacksonville, Florida, Jacksonville University (JU) has more than 18,000 alumni. Recognized as one of the nation's foremost teaching institutions, JU offers one of the largest online RN to BSN degree programs in the country. To meet the needs of those seeking the advanced opportunities of a postgraduate education, JU also offers two convenient online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees. JU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor’s and master’s degrees and was named one of "America's Best Colleges" for the seventh consecutive year by U.S. News & World Report. The School of Nursing holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for both BSN and MSN programs.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Jacksonville University Online/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.jacksonvilleu.com

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Florida Tech’s Nathan M. Bisk College of Business Introduces a Customizable MBA Degree 100% Online

2010-08-30T11:48:00.000-04:00

Master of Business Administration Students Can Now Tailor Their Degree to Match Individual Career Goals

TAMPA, Fla., August 30, 2010 – Florida Tech University Online (Florida Institute of Technology) has again expanded its offerings of nationally respected business degrees online. The new Master of Business Administration degree is significant because it allows students to build a personalized degree through a choice of specialization courses in a variety of in-demand disciplines.

All Florida Tech MBA degree programs utilize the case-method approach and heavily emphasize traditional core business principles before moving into one of seven industry specializations. What makes this new MBA noteworthy is a flexible curriculum allowing students to choose their specialization courses from a wide variety of disciplines including: Accounting, Finance, Information Technology Management, Healthcare Management, Internet Marketing, Management, Marketing and Project Management.

Dr. Robert Niebuhr, dean of Florida Tech’s Nathan M. Bisk College of Business, said, “Florida Tech’s MBA programs are one-of-a-kind in the online learning environment because they foster an intensely collaborative education, in addition to leading research, innovative best practices and risk-taking opportunities. The fact that students can now build a personalized MBA program makes the degree that much more valuable over the course of one’s career.”

Florida Tech and University Alliance – the company providing the multimedia, video-based
e-learning system, enrollment support and marketing that make the degree programs possible –are expected to announce several additional new MBAs soon. Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President of University Alliance, said, “Today’s business professionals need cutting edge education to be able to successfully navigate real-life challenges. This new MBA will provide students the option to further fine tune their skills sets by building a program that truly mirrors their unique interests and professional goals.”

Admission is on a rolling basis. Prospective students are encouraged to apply today. For more information about Florida Tech University Online, visit http://www.FloridaTechOnline.com.

About Florida Tech
Florida Tech is a regionally accredited university that is world renowned for its distinguished faculty, comprehensive curriculum and unyielding innovation. Regional accreditation is the highest form of accreditation a college or university can obtain. Florida Tech continues to be ranked a Best National University by U.S. News & World Report. It is also rated by the Fiske Guide to Colleges and named a best buy in Barron’s Best Buys in College Education. Founded in 1958, Florida Tech has more than 50,000 alumni. Its main campus is located on 130 subtropical acres in Melbourne, Florida, on the state’s famous Space Coast.

Florida Tech, with the assistance of University Alliance, has one of the largest nationally ranked online programs in the nation with more than 38 of the most sought-after associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 450,000 online enrollments and a million credit hours – making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Florida Tech University Online/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.floridatechonline.com

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The 2011 Best Colleges Rankings are Now Available Online at U.S. News University Directory

2010-08-17T22:55:00.002-04:00

U.S. News & World Report, the recognized authority on college and university rankings, has launched the 2011 edition of its annual Best Colleges issue

TAMPA, Fla., August 17, 2010 - U.S. News & World Report has released the 2011 edition of its annual Best Colleges issue. This report provides the nation’s most trusted rankings of colleges and universities that award undergraduate degrees. It is specifically designed to be straightforward, easy to use and provide the information students need to make informed decisions about their education.

Since it was first published in 1983, the Best Colleges issue has been the indispensible college rankings resource. In addition to its highly sought-after listing of regional colleges and universities, Best Colleges 2011 includes information about particular programs such as business, engineering and more.

The 2011 rankings are also available online at U.S. News University Directory, which provides a variety of other education resources as well. Search an extensive listing of on-campus and online programs; contact over 1,900 of America’s best colleges and universities; get the latest news from U.S. News reporters; and download a free financial aid guide that includes expert tips and critical FAFSA documents!

The 2011 edition of Best Colleges also provides: general information on applying for and attending college; the latest news from a variety of popular fields and degree programs; insight into how schools achieve their rank; and a complete index of schools so that the entry for each can be found quickly and easily.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual income of workers who hold a bachelor’s degree is now almost $20,000 more than those who hold only a high school diploma. Over a 40-year working life, that’s a difference of more than $700,000 – quite a significant pay increase! And the salary of graduates who hold a degree in an in-demand field like nursing or software engineering may rise even higher.

In addition, the benefits of a bachelor’s degree go beyond increased wages. College graduates typically have access to better benefits, more vacation time, greater career mobility, and the sense of personal achievement that comes from challenging themselves to excel.

For students who are ready to pursue a college degree, Best Colleges 2011 is the go-to resource. It is the only publication with rankings from the trusted authority on colleges and graduate schools – U.S. News & World Report.

About U.S. News University Directory
U.S. News University Directory provides comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983.

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/best-colleges-2011.aspx

Graduates of The University of Scranton’s Online Master of Science in Education Program Praise the Benefits of E-Learning at Spring Commencement Ceremony

2010-08-09T13:20:00.001-04:00

2010 Graduating Class Includes 357 Students Who Earned Their MS in Curriculum and Instruction or MS in Educational Administration Degree Online

TAMPA, Fla., August 9, 2010 – Hundreds of graduate students walked in The University of Scranton’s Spring 2010 commencement procession, including many master of science in education recipients who completed their degree programs 100% online. The May 29 ceremony marked the first time most of these online students ever set foot on the campus of the acclaimed institution, which is ranked among the top 10 Master’s Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

This unique group of graduates praised both the ceremony and their online education experience. “It was wonderful to have the opportunity to walk and receive my diploma in front of family and friends,” stated Carly Beth Batzel, who chose The University of Scranton’s online Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction program because of the school’s reputation for academic excellence, coupled with its online convenience. “As a working mom and a military wife, I needed the flexibility of working and studying when my schedule allowed – even if that was at midnight or 5:00 a.m.! The University of Scranton allowed me to pursue my advanced degree and fulfill my current responsibilities at the same time.” Batzel felt the commencement ceremony “was the perfect culmination of two years of self-discipline, hard work and time management.”

“I am so glad that I participated in graduation. I loved the atmosphere and being part of such a special occasion,” said Roy Wright, who earned his Master of Science in Educational Administration. He selected The University of Scranton based on the school’s “tremendous reputation” and the recommendations of two friends who are alumni, as well as the online program’s flexibility to fit within his demanding schedule. Wright plans to apply his new credentials in pursuit of his career goals: “I intend to become a principal and then a superintendent within five to 10 years!”

For Thomas L. Martin, a father of four with a busy work schedule, the university’s online program was his only choice for earning an MS in Educational Administration. He appreciated the flexible, video-based e-learning platform, since “attending traditional classes was nearly impossible.” The online courses perfectly suited Martin’s needs, and his advanced degree will empower him to move into an administrator role.

Several MS in Curriculum and Instruction recipients remarked that they were grateful for the opportunity to participate in the graduation ceremony and very pleased with the university’s online program. “It was very important for me to attend commencement,” said Linda Stokes, noting that the university made its online students feel “just as important as students who took courses on campus.” She proclaimed the program to be “excellent for teachers” and believes it will help her attain a higher-paying job.

Her online classmate, Michelle Efseaff, found the entire experience to be very satisfying: “All the work, all the learning, all the time spent on the computer came back full-force as I was walking to receive my diploma.” Efseaff, who chose The University of Scranton based on its top ranking from U.S. News & World Report, felt the online program met her high expectations and fulfilled her academic needs. An adjunct faculty member at Porterville College, she hopes to leverage her advanced degree to become a staff member in her employer’s new teacher credential program.

Fellow graduate Nancy Nolan had equally high praise for the university’s online MS in Curriculum and Instruction program. “I was pleased that I could accumulate several credits in a short period of time,” explained Nolan. “More importantly, I appreciated The University of Scranton’s reputation and high standards, and knew I would be in a meaningful program.”

For a complete list of graduates, visit http://matrix.scranton.edu/news/articles/2010/05/Images/Graduate_Commencement_Program.pdf.

Applications are now being accepted for The University of Scranton’s next online session. For more information about earning a master of science in education degree online, call 800-605-5346 or visit http://www.uscranton.com.

About The University of Scranton
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, The University of Scranton was founded in 1888 and has been educating students in the Jesuit tradition since 1942. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 Master’s Universities in the North by U.S. News &World Report. The University of Scranton is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) as well as the Commission of Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The College of Graduate and Continuing Education is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
The University of Scranton/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.uscranton.com

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University Alliance Announces Career-Transforming Resources for Professionals Seeking Online Degree Programs

2010-08-09T11:03:00.004-04:00

Hosted by America’s Leading Universities Online, New Web-Based Content Libraries Offer a Growing Collection of Articles on Today’s Most In-Demand Degree and Career Topics

TAMPA, Fla., August 9, 2010 – With companies throughout the U.S. preparing to ramp up hiring efforts, smart job-seekers are increasingly looking to enhance their résumés with advanced degrees from respected universities. To address the demand for timely, relevant degree and career information, University Alliance and its partner universities have debuted online resource centers with a wealth of valuable articles, career profiles and more.

Through these convenient, Internet-based content libraries, busy professionals can access the tools they need to rejuvenate their careers or pursue new opportunities. The online resource centers host detailed overviews of education and career paths in accounting, business administration, computer technology, criminal justice, marketing, psychology, nursing and teaching, among others. New articles will be added on an ongoing basis, ensuring that degree-seekers have the most current and sought-after information at their fingertips.

Jacksonville University
Registered nurses looking to advance their careers can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) online through Jacksonville University (JU). Recognized by U.S. News &World Report as one of “America’s Best Colleges,” JU offers a variety of helpful articles designed to help RNs make important education and career choices.
Online Nursing Degree Resources

Florida Tech University Online
Ranked a Best National University by U.S. News & World Report, Florida Institute of Technology offers a wide array of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs – 100% online. Florida Tech’s online resource center features dozens of articles that are designed to help professionals make informed decisions about their education and future career path.
Online Degree resources

Dominican University
World-renowned Dominican University has been educating educators for more than a century, and today offers three of its specialized master’s in education degrees 100% online. Ranked among the Midwest’s top master’s-level universities by U.S. News & World Report, Dominican University is dedicated to providing the tools and knowledge teachers need to excel.
Education Resources

To learn more about online degree and certificate programs offered by America’s leading universities, visit http://www.universityalliance.com.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, its university partners have surpassed 450,000 online enrollments – making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. All University Alliance partners are consistently rated among America’s best universities in national publications such as U.S. News & World Report and BusinessWeek. University Alliance partners include Villanova University, the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, the University of San Francisco, Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business, the University of South Florida, Florida Institute of Technology, The University of Scranton, Dominican University and Jacksonville University.

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Helpful Nursing Industry Links

2010-07-27T23:33:00.008-04:00

Online Continuing Education: for Nursing, Nurses, Case Managers, Management
Online health care case management continuing education resource and opportunities for case managers, social workers, rehab nurses, and rehab counselors.

Add Link - Suggest Link - Submit URL Directory

Nursing School Online - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Nursing Schools : Nursing Degrees : Nursing Programs

NursingTop10.com

Dominican University Awards More Than $156,000 for Its First-Ever Teacher Scholarships

2010-07-07T14:59:00.002-04:00

New Program Will Give Selected Teachers the Opportunity to Earn an Education Master’s 100% Online at Significantly Reduced Tuition

TAMPA, Fla., July 7, 2010 – Dominican University is now accepting applications for the new Bisk Foundation Teacher Education Scholarships, which will award 30 first-time applicants to its online Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) degree programs with more than $5,200 apiece to complete their education. Provided by Bisk Education as part of its commitment to developing outstanding educators, these scholarships offer a 33% savings on tuition for recipients, who will enjoy the reduced rate for as long as they remain active in one of Dominican’s online master’s in education programs.

In order to be awarded one of these teacher scholarships, applicants must meet several criteria, including:

Teaching in a classroom or working in school administration at the time of application
Demonstrating that they have had a positive impact on the lives of others
Holding a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA from a regionally accredited institution, or being a graduate of a regionally accredited master’s, specialist or doctoral program in which they earned a minimum 3.0 GPA

The program will initially span the six sessions from Fall I 2010 through Summer II 2011, with five new recipients being named each session. The scholarship application deadline for the first session is August 16, 2010, the last date to apply for admission to a Dominican online MAEd program for the Fall I session.

“Dominican University is proud to honor accomplished educators with the opportunity to pursue higher academic and professional goals through these education scholarships,” said Sister Colleen McNicholas, Dean Emerita of the School of Education. “We look forward to helping foster their further success.”

U.S. News & World Report-ranked Dominican has long been known for providing a quality education to its students. Bisk Foundation Teacher Education Scholarships – valued at $435.60 per individual course – will enable dozens of gifted teachers to experience proven Dominican curricula through the convenience of a 100% online virtual classroom. Unlike most campus-based programs, these online master’s in education programs allow students to set their own schedule, with 24/7 access to video-based lectures. No campus visits are required, but students are invited to walk in their graduation ceremony at the completion of their degree.

Designed to empower working teachers with the specialized skills to excel in today’s classroom, Dominican’s MAEd degrees are offered online in three concentrations: reading, elementary education and English as a second language. Bisk Foundation Teacher Education Scholarships will aid educators in acquiring the skills and credentials they need to enjoy more rewarding careers. According to the U.S. Department of Education, a master’s degree can add $7,500 to a teacher’s annual salary.

Visit http://www.dominicanu.com/graduate-scholarships-teachers.asp now to get more information and to download a scholarship application.

About Dominican University
Founded in 1901, Dominican University is located ten miles west of downtown Chicago. The Catholic university ranks in the top tier of Midwest regional universities, according to U.S. News & World Report – which also cited Dominican as a best value for 10 years in a row. The university is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools as a baccalaureate and master’s degree granting institution.

About Bisk Education, Inc.
Founded in 1971, Bisk Education is the world’s leading provider of professional education online. The University Alliance (UA), a division of Bisk, facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 450,000 online enrollments – making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. U.S. News University Directory, part of the Bisk network, provides comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Dominican University/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.dominicanu.com

Florida Tech Becomes First Nationally Ranked University to Offer an MBA With a Specialization in Internet Marketing 100% Online

2010-06-25T11:55:00.001-04:00

Florida Tech and Bisk Education Continue Their Dedication to Adult Online Learners With a New World-Class Specialized MBA

TAMPA, Fla., June 25 -- Florida Tech University Online (Florida Institute of Technology) and Bisk Education have affirmed their commitment to online education with an innovative new business degree. The MBA with a specialization in Internet Marketing provides vital knowledge of today's most in-demand business strategies and tactics and is the first of its kind to be awarded from a nationally ranked university 100% online. This authoritative new degree program is expected to reshape the playing field in Internet marketing - a discipline that has virtually revolutionized modern-day business.

The new master's degree program will be made available through Florida Tech's Nathan M. Bisk College of Business. The college has grown considerably over the past few years to become one of the largest private business colleges in the nation, with over 5,000 students. Robert Niebuhr, dean of Florida Tech's College of Business, said, "This program directly accomplishes our goal of better preparing students to compete in a dynamic job market. The curriculum uncovers the unique impact of social media techniques, interactive communication methodologies and data mining/search engine processes on corporate performance. We're proud to arm professionals with the tools to develop and execute strategies necessary to excel in a digital environment that is continually changing and shaping the complex global markets of tomorrow."

Bisk Education's University Alliance division provides the multimedia, video-based e-learning system, enrollment support and marketing that make the program possible. Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President of Student Services from University Alliance, said, "Now more than ever, we can't underestimate the role of higher education in career success and working adults' need for a convenient, flexible solution. Offering an MBA in Internet Marketing, from a nationally ranked university, is particularly exciting as knowledge of emerging technologies is increasingly critical to meeting business initiatives in today's interactive marketplace."

Admission is on a rolling basis. Prospective students are encouraged to apply today to prepare to lead in the rapidly growing Internet marketing revolution. Additional online master's degree programs from Florida Tech's Nathan M. Bisk College of Business are expected to be announced soon. For more information about Florida Tech University Online, visit http://www.floridatechonline.com/.

About Florida Tech

Florida Tech is a regionally accredited university that is world renowned for its distinguished faculty, comprehensive curriculum and unyielding innovation. Regional accreditation is the highest form of accreditation a college or university can obtain. Florida Tech continues to be ranked a Best National University by U.S. News & World Report. It is also rated by the Fiske Guide to Colleges and named a best buy in Barron's Best Buys in College Education. Founded in 1958, Florida Tech has more than 50,000 alumni. Its main campus is located on 130 subtropical acres in Melbourne, Florida, on the state's famous Space Coast.

Florida Tech, with the assistance of Bisk Education's University Alliance division, has one of the largest nationally ranked online programs in the nation with more than 38 of the most sought-after associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs.

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, education specialist and doctoral degrees.

About Bisk Education
Nathan M. Bisk JD, CPA (FL) founded Bisk Education in 1971 to provide continuing education programs for working professionals. Since its inception, Bisk Education has grown to become the nation's largest exclusive facilitator of online degree and certificate programs from the nation's leading universities, offering end-to-end, lifelong-learning solutions that allow working adults to reach their personal and professional goals through education. Bisk Education's University Alliance (UA) division, of which Florida Tech is a member, facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation's leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA's technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 450,000 online enrollments - making UA the largest exclusive facilitator of e-learning in the nation. For more information, visit http://bisk.com/.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Florida Tech University Online/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.floridatechonline.com

Jacksonville University Introduces World-Class Master of Science in Nursing Programs Online

2010-06-03T14:12:00.000-04:00

JU’s School of Nursing Empowers Working RNs to Earn an MSN Degree With the Convenience of a 100% Online Classroom

TAMPA, Fla., June 3, 2010 – Jacksonville University is revolutionizing nursing education by bringing its acclaimed Master of Science in Nursing degrees to RNs nationwide via a 100% online classroom. This development introduces an unprecedented level of convenience to JU’s renowned MSN degree programs, which include specializations in Nursing Education and Nursing Administration. RNs seeking a Master of Science in Nursing can now complete a degree on their own schedule while fulfilling family and work obligations. Both online MSN degree specializations are taught by the same doctoral-trained professors who teach on campus at JU, a university consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of “America’s Best Colleges” among master’s-level universities in the South.

A Master of Science in Nursing degree will enable nurses to enjoy greater control, prestige and compensation in their career. According to Payscale.com, nurses who hold an MSN degree can take home an annual salary of over $94,000 as a Director of Nursing. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show abundant opportunities for nurses to move into more advanced positions, as employment of medical and health services managers is expected to grow 16% between 2008 and 2018, and employment for nursing educators by 15% during the same period.

“The advanced education that our programs provide will empower nurses with the ability to compete for more rewarding jobs in their chosen specialization,” said Dr. Judith M. Erickson, Dean of Jacksonville University’s School of Nursing. “A Master of Science in Nursing can open a lot of doors. We’re happy to now be able to provide busy nurses with the opportunity to earn their MSN degrees in a flexible online program.”

Graduates from JU’s online MSN degree programs will possess enhanced expertise in leveraging technology to foster greater success for their organization, forming health policy and evaluating the health of specific populations. All will garner a valuable credential that will enable them to enter a more fulfilling new phase of their professional life.

JU’s online MSN degrees are open to graduates of an NLNAC- or CCNE-accredited BSN nursing program. The MSN in Nursing Education is designed for registered nurses who want to combine clinical expertise and a passion for teaching into a prominent role such as Clinical Nurse Educator or Assistant Professor, while the MSN in Nursing Administration is for those who wish to manage nurses and institutions, and influence policies related to both, as a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) or Nurse Administrator. These online programs are ideal for nurses whose schedule, location or other limitations have prevented them from pursuing their higher education goals.

Visit www.jacksonvilleu.com to learn more about the online MSN degree programs offered worldwide through the JU School of Nursing.

About Jacksonville University
Founded more than 75 years ago in Jacksonville, Florida, Jacksonville University has more than 18,000 alumni. Recognized as one of the nation's foremost teaching institutions, JU offers one of the largest online RN to BSN degree programs in the country. To meet the needs of those seeking the advanced opportunities of a postgraduate education, JU also offers two convenient online Master of Science in Nursing degrees. The School of Nursing is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). JU was named one of "America's Best Colleges" for the sixth consecutive year in 2010 by U.S. News & World Report.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Jacksonville University Online/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.jacksonvilleu.com

With Major CPA Exam Changes Looming, Candidates Have Increased Urgency to Pass the CPA Examination in 2010

2010-06-03T14:03:00.000-04:00

Students Nationwide Turn to Bisk CPA Review to Prepare for and Pass the CPA Exam as Time Is Running Out to Reap Benefits From Existing Study Preparation

TAMPA, Fla., June 02, 2010 – American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) will be rolling out a new Uniform CPA Examination in January 2011, sending many candidates racing to pass the CPA exam as soon as possible. Industry experts concur with this strategy.

“Candidates should take as many sections as feasible during the next two CPA exam windows, as the new version will include structural adjustments and added content to comprehend” said Bob Monette, a CPA and longtime exam review instructor. “Given that most have already invested time and money into exam prep for the current version, completing the sections for which they’ve already prepared should be top priority.”

In addition to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) being tested, portions of all four Exam sections will change. These changes are not only significant and copious — in effect a “new CPA exam” according to AICPA — they are all scheduled to go into effect at the same time. Some of the most notable changes include:

• New Content and Skill Specifications (CSOs/SSOs), including International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
• Changes in the scoring percentage value of examination components.
• Replacing the two long simulations in the current format with several short Task-Based Simulations (TBS) in Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG).
• Deleting the written communication testing from AUD, FAR, and REG.
• Adding written communication testing to the Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) section.
• Reducing the scoring weight of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) in AUD, FAR, and REG by 10% and reducing the weight of MCQ in BEC by 15%.
• Doubling the simulations in AUD, FAR, and REG.

“The extensive changes debuting in the 2011 Uniform CPA Examination have given preparation a renewed priority among students,” said Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services for Bisk Education. “Bisk CPA Review has a remarkable record of helping CPA candidates pass the CPA exam and we continue to set the standard for quality and convenience in CPA exam prep.”

Passing the CPA exam is far less challenging for candidates who have a solid plan of attack. Bisk CPA Review recommends the following steps when preparing for the exam:

• Create a study plan. Candidates should examine their daily routine to identify the times they won’t be able to study, and then block out an hour a day of personal time. With the remaining time, they should be able to find 10 to 14 hours of study time per week.
• Practice, practice, practice. Take CPA practice exams to determine any weak areas and refocus study efforts on them.
• Develop an exam strategy. Become familiar with the format of the CPA exam and know exactly what to do when entering the testing room. Planning in advance will save time and confusion on exam day.
• Choose suitable study materials. When selecting CPA exam study materials, candidates should look for those that match their learning style. Some students need the guidance of an instructor, some prefer to work alone and other students learn best through video, audio or books.

Choosing the Right CPA Review Provider
One way candidates select the best CPA review provider, is asking CPAs who’ve already passed the exam for recommendations. Another is to research providers with multiple review formats. Companies like Bisk Education offer options such as video, audio, online, textbooks and live sessions, bringing convenience and choice to students and professionals whose schedules make finding study time difficult.

For complete information on Bisk CPA Review’s courses, different formats and products, visit http://www.cpaexam.com or call 800-404-7231.

About Bisk Education, Inc.
Founded in 1971 by Nathan M. Bisk, JD, CPA (FL), Bisk Education is the world’s largest exclusive provider of professional education online. With its CPA Review (http://www.CPAExam.com), CPE (http://www.CPEasy.com), and University Alliance (http://www.UniversityAlliance.com) divisions, Bisk Education has more than 450,000 enrollments, has awarded more than 12 million credit hours, and has helped more than 140,000 candidates pass the CPA exam.

Contact:

Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Bisk Education
9417 Princess Palm Avenue, Tampa, FL 33619
813-621-6200

Microsoft Information Technology Group (MSIT)

2010-05-12T15:30:00.001-04:00

Microsoft Increases Developer Productivity by 40 Percent with Workflow Modeling Tools

Since 2003, the Microsoft Information Technology Group (MSIT) has developed and maintained Order Management, an online transaction processing (OLTP) application that makes it possible for customers in more than 200 countries to purchase Microsoft® products over the Internet. In 2007, MSIT discovered that 90 percent of the code defects in Order Management were caused by functional requirements being mistranslated into C# code. To reduce errors and speed development, the group decided to incorporate workflow models into its development process. MSIT implemented a solution based on Windows® Workflow Foundation in the Microsoft .NET Framework 3.0. As a result, the productivity of developers has increased by 40 percent, functional code defects have decreased by 90 percent, and the performance of the OLTP application has been maintained.

Source - http://www.microsoft.com/casestudies/Case_Study_Detail.aspx?CaseStudyID=4000003498

Florida Tech University Online Response

As companies increasingly face both vital technology and management decisions, demand for management professionals with master's degrees is expected to continue to grow. Florida Tech’s Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) is an innovative, nationally recognized master’s program carefully constructed to prepare you for the unique challenges of today’s dynamic information technology environment.

Is the Gulf Oil Spill Headed for Florida and North Carolina?

2010-05-07T09:29:00.003-04:00

The weather changed yesterday and kept the Gulf of Mexico oil spill off the Louisiana coast for at least another day. But while we previously reported on the damage that oil could do if it makes landfall, there could also be disastrous consequences if the oil heads too far in the other direction, out to sea. Not far south of the oil slick’s present location lies the Gulf loop current, which heads north from Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, makes a sharp turn in the middle of the Gulf and then heads for the tip of Florida. Eventually, water caught in the current can get pushed around to Florida and then connect to the Gulf Stream current.

Oceanographer George Maul worries that the current could push the oil slick right through the Florida Keys and its 6,000 coral reefs.

“I looked at some recent satellite imagery and it looks like some of the oil may be shifted to the south,” said Maul, a professor at Florida Institute of Technology (FIT.edu), which is a world-respected regionally accredited university in Melbourne, Fla. “If it gets entrained in the loop, it could spread throughout much of the Atlantic” [Discovery News].

If that happens, the oil could spread as far as Cape Hatteras in North Carolina, Discovery News reports.

Meanwhile, news about the efforts to stop the spill hasn’t improved. Yesterday BP announced it had begun to drill a relief well, one of the last available options to stop the leak created when the company’s leased oil rig, the Deepwater Horizon, exploded and sank. The idea is that the new well would intercept the one Deepwater Horizon had tapped and plug it to stop the flow of oil, but it won’t be completed for at least 60 to 90 days.
Investigators also must figure out what went wrong with the blowout preventer (BOP), which should have prevented this entire incident. The device is intended to shut off the flow of oil if an out-of-control surge begins to ascend the pipe, but both its automatic and manual switches failed this time.

Deepwater Horizon is the second such accident in less than a year. Just eight months ago, the BOP failed on a deep-water well in the Timor Sea, north-west of Australia. After five attempts and 10 weeks a relief well was drilled and the flow – much smaller than Deepwater Horizon – was stemmed [New Scientist].

The Gulf oil spill has had political reverberations throughout the country, too. President Obama backed off a plan to allow more offshore drilling after the extent of the spill became clear, and now California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has done the same. Previously, Schwarzenegger proposed new drilling off the California coast to raise the money needed to save state parks from California’s budget crisis. But after seen the pictures of oil spreading over miles and miles of ocean, the governor changed his mind.

“It will not happen here in California,” Schwarzenegger said at a news conference. “If I have a choice between the $100 million and what I see in the Gulf of Mexico, I’d rather just figure out how to make up for that $100 million” [San Jose Mercury News].

Previous Gulf Oil Spill Stories:
80beats: Gulf Oil Spill: Fisheries Closed; Louisiana Wetlands Now in Jeopardy
80beats: Gulf Oil Spill Reaches U.S. Coast; New Orleans Reeks of “Pungent Fuel Smell”
80beats: Uh-Oh: Gulf Oil Spill May Be 5 Times Worse Than Previously Thought
80beats: Coast Guard’s New Plan To Contain Gulf Oil Spill: Light It on Fire
80beats: Sunken Oil Rig Now Leaking Crude; Robots Head to the Rescue
80beats: Ships Race To Contain the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
Image: NASA

May 4th, 2010 9:44 AM Tags: Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill, ocean, oil & gas, oil spill, pollution
by Andrew Moseman in Environment | 4 comments | RSS feed | MSIT Online

Nurse Practitioners Fill Critical Roles in an Expanding Healthcare Field

2010-05-04T04:42:00.001-04:00

U.S. News University Directory Reports That Nurses With Advanced Degrees Are in High Demand

TAMPA, Fla., May 4, 2010 -- In every profession there are those who pursue advanced education and training to achieve top-level expertise. Nurse practitioner (NP) is the title given to nurses who attain such proficiency in their field. Recent studies by PayScale.com show that the top-end salary for NPs can exceed $93,000 annually, and demand for healthcare professionals is growing faster than that of any other career. Join U.S. News University Directory as they explore how NP licensure helps nurses position themselves for a lifetime of lucrative, rewarding and stable employment.

To begin a nurse practitioner education, the first step is to earn a registered nurse (RN) license. There are several ways to do this – including diploma and associate’s degree programs – but for those want to someday become an NP, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) followed by successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) is the preferred path. This is because BSN degree programs generally better prepare nurses for the rigorous education required of NPs, and also leave graduates at least two years closer to completing their master’s or doctoral degree than other RN programs.

After earning a registered nurse license, gaining acceptance to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program is the next step to becoming a nurse practitioner. Nurses pursuing either degree typically specialize in a particular area of nursing; psychiatric nurse practitioner (PHMNP), family nurse practitioner (FNP), pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) and neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP) are the most popular concentrations, but there are many others. Specializing in this way allows nurses to concentrate on the aspect of their field that they find most rewarding and become true experts in its practice.

Which nursing schools to apply to is also a critical decision. Those offering MSN and/or DNP programs in a desired specialty are the obvious choice, but there are other factors to consider as well. Generally, nursing students should attend the most prestigious nursing school that they can get accepted to and afford. Graduating from a well-known and highly respected program expands their employment options once they enter the job market, and also increases their likelihood of landing the positions they really want. In this, nursing is like any other field; having a prestigious alma mater doesn’t mean everything, but it can put a candidate ahead of the pack when competition for jobs is fierce.

Something else to remember: Financial aid for nurses is available, even at the graduate level. All nursing students should fill out the Free Application for Federal student Aid (FAFSA) to see if there are any grants or loans that they qualify for. Obviously, grants are preferred – free money is better than money that must be paid back – but they are rare in the world of post-baccalaureate education. Most graduate students have more luck finding cheap, federally subsidized student loans. Careful research of scholarship opportunities is also recommended; nurses studying at the graduate level are encouraged to apply for any they think they have a chance of getting. Landing just one or two scholarships can render a prohibitively expensive nursing program suddenly affordable.

After completing an MSN or DNP degree, nurses can apply for licensure as a nurse practitioner. Every state has a board of nursing that regulates NP licenses, and each has its own particular credentialing standards. Most states require, at minimum, an MSN and certification by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Licensing periods also vary from state to state; some require relicensing every two years, while others require it every three.

Finally, certification from additional organizations might be required to enter certain specialties. For example, the American Psychiatric Nursing Association sets credentialing standards for nurse practitioners who want to work in the psychiatric field.

Healthcare employment is growing by leaps and bounds, so finding nurse practitioner jobs after licensure shouldn’t be too difficult. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the nursing field to grow by 22% through 2018, a pace that is much faster than the average for all professions. This means there should be almost 600,000 new nursing jobs created over the next eight years, in addition to hundreds of thousands of job openings that will result from nurses who retire or leave for other reasons. Licensed NPs have the advanced education and training that qualifies them for many of the most sought-after and best-paying positions.

Nurse practitioner salaries are among the highest in the nursing field. According to PayScale.com, NPs with one to four years of experience earn between $65,000 and $80,000 annually. Those who have been in the field for five to nine years bring in anywhere from $70,000 to $88,000 per year, while NPs who have been practicing for over ten years can increase that to more than $93,000. Location and the type of facility an NP works in also play a role in determining how much they earn; those who work in large cities, and those employed by surgery centers or the military, tend to have the highest top-end salaries.

When choosing a career path, it is wise to consider many factors: growth potential, salary, educational requirements, fringe benefits and more. The entire healthcare field is expanding rapidly, and nurse practitioners are positioned to land some of the best nursing jobs in it, so this is an excellent career to consider for those who are willing and able to earn the necessary credentials. Few other professions offer such an advantageous mix of flexibility, opportunity and job security.

About U.S. News University Directory
U.S. News University Directory provides comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983.

Contact:

Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/nurse-practitioners-fill-critical-roles.aspx

University of San Francisco Expands Renowned Online Supply Chain Management Program With New Corporate and Environmental Sustainability Training

2010-04-20T11:52:00.000-04:00

First Expert-Led, Advanced Specialized Sustainability Certificate Course Available 100% Online From a Nationally Ranked University

TAMPA, Fla., April 20, 2010 – The University of San Francisco (USF) is proud to announce the launch of a new advanced specialized certificate, Corporate and Environmental Sustainability. This 100% online program enhances the acclaimed supply chain management curriculum from USF, a university that has repeatedly been ranked a best national university by U.S. News & World Report.

The timing of USF’s new corporate sustainability program is advantageous for those seeking employment or advancement in this area. As independent nonprofit Pew Charitable Trusts recently reported, jobs in the clean energy economy grew at a rate of 9.1% between 1998 and 2007 – more than two and a half times faster than traditional jobs grew during the same period. Significant growth in sustainability-related employment is expected to continue in the coming years.

“The demand for sustainability training is clearly rising, with the world’s largest companies leading the way,” said USF online program faculty member and supply chain expert Susan Burrell. “General Electric has recently been named the world’s most sustainable company, and Walmart just announced an initiative to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 20 million metric tons by the end of 2015. To maintain these high standards, organizations need personnel with solid sustainability and environmental management training – and that’s exactly what this new program offers online.”

USF’s sustainability education is essential for new sustainability directors and “green team” members, executives, managers, HR directors and others who oversee and/or train employees tasked with sustainability initiatives, as well as individuals who wish to advance into such positions. All supply chain professionals, whose decisions, processes and suppliers directly contribute to an organization’s overall sustainability, can benefit from the course. Participants will learn essential business strategies, including how to:

• Improve energy efficiency using the latest techniques, tools and technology
• Apply sustainability principles, frameworks and tools for business
• Develop a strategic plan for sustainability
• Leverage sustainability for favorable financing and insurance rates
• Align corporate social responsibility with sustainability goals
• Achieve greater innovation and bottom-line results

USF’s expert-led, university-backed corporate sustainability and supply chain education programs are ideal for individual and corporate training because the on-demand, 100% online classroom won’t interrupt the daily workflow. Students gain valuable credentials and training in just eight weeks through convenient video-based e-learning, including streaming online video and downloadable MP4 video files.

Registration is now open for Corporate and Environmental Sustainability. Classes will commence June 1. Upon completion of this eight-week course, students will receive a framed certificate from the University of San Francisco’s School of Business and Professional Studies.

Ask about multicourse discounts for sustainability training, green supply chain management and other online master certificate programs from USF. Call 800-436-1713 or visit http:/www.USanFranOnline.com.

About the University of San Francisco
Ranked as a best national university by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF’s online programs are offered through its School of Business and Professional Studies, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren College of Business.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com

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USF's New Internet Marketing Courses First of Their Kind: Only Email and Affiliate Marketing Certificates Offered 100% Online by Nationally Ranked University

2010-04-13T09:21:00.000-04:00

University of San Francisco's Advanced Specialized Internet Marketing Certificate Courses Empower Professionals With Comprehensive Online Training in Internet Marketing's Most In-Demand Disciplines

TAMPA, Fla., April 13 -- Following the successful debut of its advanced specialized certificate courses in web analytics and social media, the University of San Francisco (USF) continues to proactively address the needs of today's interactive marketers with the introduction of Advanced Email Marketing and Advanced Affiliate Marketing training. These eight-week, 100% online courses offer an intensive exploration of two of today's most profitable marketing practices. Each empowers professionals with enhanced skills, expanded knowledge and respected credentials from a U.S. News & World Report-ranked best national university. Like USF's core Master Certificate in Internet Marketing program, the new affiliate and email marketing courses are led by practicing, real-world experts who are among today's foremost interactive marketing leaders.

"Email marketing represents an area of incredible opportunity for both organizations and individuals," said USF online program faculty member and email marketing expert Sheryl Cattell. "The Direct Marketing Association found that email offers the highest ROI of all direct marketing channels, with an average of $43.62 in sales for every dollar spent(1). At the same time, many companies are wasting time and money on emails that go nowhere. Forrester Research estimates that by 2014, organizations will waste $144 million(2) on emails that never reach their intended recipient."

While these figures demonstrate organizations' urgent need for individuals with email marketing training, other studies highlight the personal rewards for those with the right skills. "It should come as no surprise that more than half of email marketing professionals are earning upwards of $70,000 a year(3)," noted Cattell. "This course covers topics that are essential to email marketing success, such as choosing an email broadcast solution, measuring and evaluating email campaigns, reducing opt-outs, complying with federal and state email laws, integrating email with social media and adopting industry best practices, to name just a few."

Affiliate marketing is another area with great - and largely untapped - potential. "Bloggers and other online content providers are enjoying substantial earnings from affiliate marketing. Six-figure incomes are not uncommon, and the most successful super-affiliates net more than $1 million a year," stated USF online program instructor and affiliate marketing expert Jim Kukral. "However, organizations are just beginning to realize that they can use affiliate marketing to generate additional revenue from an existing website by partnering with companies that offer complementary products or services."

Kukral notes that USF's certificate course offers distinct advantages over the numerous affiliate marketing "systems" on the market today, as it is the first and only affiliate marketing training presented by an accredited, nationally ranked university. Instead of a single "guru," USF assembled a team of experts that includes well-known and highly successful super-affiliates, plus attorneys who are well-versed in the legal risks and challenges associated with affiliate marketing. By the end of the course, students will be able to implement an affiliate marketing program, develop content that attracts and engages visitors, drive traffic through natural and paid search, and maximize their profits by implementing the industry's best practices.

Registration is now open for USF's new advanced specialized certificate courses in Internet marketing. Students who register for the next available sessions of Advanced Email Marketing and Advanced Affiliate Marketing can begin class on May 1. Upon completion of each eight-week course, participants will receive a framed certificate from the University of San Francisco's School of Business and Professional Studies.
For more details on USF's online affiliate marketing and email marketing courses - or its end-to-end Internet marking training program - visit http://www.USanFranOnline.com or call 800-436-1713. Agencies and marketing departments can learn about corporate training solutions, customization options and agency/group discounts at http://www.InteractiveMarketingTraining.com.

About the University of San Francisco
Ranked as a best national university by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF's online programs are offered through its School of Business and Professional Studies, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren College of Business.

(1) "E-mail ROI Still Stunning, Still Slipping: DMA" by Ken Magill; published on DirectMag.com; October 20, 2009.
(2) "Forrester Forecast: US Email Marketing Spending To Reach $2 Billion In 2014"; press release published on Forrester.com; June 15, 2009.
(3) EmailStatCenter.com Compensation & Resources Study; 2010.

Contact:

Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com

Florida Tech Becomes First Nationally Ranked, Accredited University to Offer Undergraduate Online Psychology Degree With Five Concentrations

2010-04-06T09:34:00.000-04:00

New Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology Degree Available 100% Online From
U.S. News & World Report-Ranked Best National University

TAMPA, Fla., April 6, 2010 – Psychology is one of the most popular fields of study in America today. According to the U.S. Department of Education*, the bachelor’s in psychology has remained among the top five baccalaureate degrees conferred since 1990. Florida Tech University Online (Florida Institute of Technology) now makes it possible for students across the country and around the globe to earn a world-class applied psychology degree 100% online.

In addition to the core Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Applied Psychology degree that serves as the foundation of the online program, Florida Tech offers students a choice of five concentrations: Child Advocacy, Clinical Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Human Factors and Organizational Psychology. The degree program and its concentrations combine a broad-based liberal arts curriculum with a scientific approach to understanding human behavior.

“Our online psychology degree prepares students to conceptualize broadly, think critically, communicate effectively and interact positively with diverse populations,” said Dr. Mary Beth Kenkel, Dean of the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts, Florida Institute of Technology. “Courses are led by the same renowned scholars, researchers and leaders who teach on campus, so graduates of the online program get the same quality education and earn the same diploma as their main-campus peers.”

Florida Tech’s applied psychology faculty is unique in that professors currently work in their fields – a fact that Dr. Kenkel sees as a distinct advantage. “They are excellent instructors because they practice what they teach, bringing real-life examples into the classroom.”

The bachelor’s in psychology programs introduce students to functional knowledge and practical skills that are sought after by employers and a prerequisite for graduate-level studies. The degree options available via Florida Tech’s multimedia video-based e-learning platform include:

BA in Applied Psychology Degree – Covering the major concepts of applied psychology, this program allows students to choose electives from any of the five concentrations offered online. It is a highly versatile degree that can lead to opportunities in a variety of fields, including behavioral and social sciences, business, sales and marketing. Graduates may find employment in such roles as counselors, applied behavioral science specialists, psychiatric technicians and case managers.

BA in Applied Psychology/Child Advocacy Degree – Students in this program study child development, community psychology and critical issues pertaining to child maltreatment. These specialized courses expose students to critical skills required of child advocates, who serve in such roles as youth counselor, victim advocate, child development specialist and child welfare specialist.

BA in Applied Psychology/Clinical Psychology Degree – This liberal arts degree program exposes students to an introductory study of psychological and behavioral problems, with a focus on identification, testing, analysis and treatment. The goal of the curriculum is to provide the necessary foundation for pursuit of clinical graduate study.

BA in Applied Psychology/Forensic Psychology Degree – The field of forensic psychology examines human behavior as it relates to matters of law enforcement and the legal system. Graduates with a forensic psychology concentration possess the knowledge required for positions such as mental health and forensic services program specialist, behavioral services technician or case manager.

BA in Applied Psychology/Human Factors Degree – This program explores the physical, social and cognitive properties characteristic to humans, and how these factors relate to the design of equipment, systems and working methods. Students can apply their knowledge in roles such as ergonomics specialist, safety supervisor or usability design specialist.

BA in Applied Psychology/Organizational Psychology Degree – An industrial/organizational psychology education prepares students to apply psychological techniques that can improve productivity, attitude and behavior in the workplace. Graduates in this field may find employment as labor relations specialist, director of human resources or organizational management consultant.

Enrollment is now open for Florida Tech’s applied psychology degree online program. For more details, visit http://www.floridatechonline.com or call 888-352-8324.

About Florida Tech
Florida Tech is a regionally accredited university that is world renowned for its distinguished faculty, comprehensive curriculum and unyielding innovation. Regional accreditation represents the highest standard available among U.S. accrediting bodies. Florida Tech continues to be ranked a Best National University by U.S. News & World Report. It is also rated by the Fiske Guide to Colleges and named a best buy in Barron’s Best Buys in College Education. Founded in 1958, Florida Tech has more than 50,000 alumni. Its main campus is located on 130 subtropical acres in Melbourne, Florida, on the state’s famous “Space Coast.” Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees.

* National Center for Education Statistics, Digest of Education Statistics, 2008 (March 2009): Chapter 3, “Postsecondary Education”; Table 271; page 398.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Florida Tech University Online/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.floridatechonline.com

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University of San Francisco Internet Marketing Online Faculty Member Joe Laratro to Present at SES NYC 2010

2010-03-19T09:18:00.000-04:00

Leading expert in the SEM industry touts the benefits of USF’s 100% online Master Certificate in Internet Marketing program and explains “Bringing SEO In-House”

Tampa, Fla. – March 19, 2010 – The University of San Francisco’s (USF) Internet Marketing online faculty member, Joe Laratro, will present his leading-edge Search Engine Marketing (SEM) tactics, “Bringing SEO In-House,” on Wednesday, March 24, 2010, at the Search Engine Strategies (SES) 2010 Conference and Expo.

USF will be showcasing its online Master Certificate in Internet Marketing program at the SES Expo which will be held in New York City from March 22-26, 2010, at the Hilton New York. “It is the first and only 100% online certificate program that provides the advanced training and credentials one needs to become an interactive marketing expert,” noted Laratro.

Laratro, one of the first 100 certified Google AdWords Professionals, was a contributor to the founding of the Yahoo! Strategic Provider Program, is a certified Yahoo! Strategic Provider Ambassador, and continues to be closely involved in industry developments. In March of 2006, he was one of only 20 professionals invited to sit on the MSN AdCenter Search Council.

“It’s exciting to be able to present the benefits of USF’s online internet marketing training programs and share our collective SEM knowledge with experienced industry professionals, as well as those who are new to the game,” said Laratro. “For many organizations, it’s a challenge to manage an in-house Internet marketing department. That’s why we’ve worked together to simplify the equation with a single, customizable interactive marketing training solution that’s right for any organization.”

Joining Laratro at the event will be Pete Schatschneider and Amit Sharan, University Alliance brand managers for USF’s online business certificate programs.

Through the USF Master Certificate in Internet Marketing program, professionals can become proficient in all facets of digital marketing, including website usability, blogs, Web 2.0, paid search, media buys, legal, SEO, web analytics, viral marketing, affiliate marketing and social media. The program also prepares students for certification from two of the leading industry organizations: Google Advertising Professional and Web Analytics Association.

Visitors to USF’s Search Engine Strategies Expo booth #321 will have an opportunity to register to win an online Internet Marketing course valued at up to $2,280. Those who cannot attend the show can still register to win a free course at http://www.USanFranOnline.com/SES.*

About the University of San Francisco
Acclaimed as one of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco (USF) has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF’s online programs are offered through its School of Business and Professional Studies, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren College of Business.

*Subject to verification of eligibility. Restrictions apply. See official rules for entry details and eligibility restrictions at the event or visit www.usanfranonline.com/ses. No purchase necessary.

Contact Information:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com

USF to Showcase its 100% Online Internet Marketing Certificate Program at the SES NYC 2010 Expo

2010-03-16T17:44:00.001-04:00

Register online or visit USF’s SES NYC booth #321 for a chance to win a Master Certificate in Internet Marketing course valued at up to $2,280!

TAMPA, Fla., March 16, 2009 – The University of San Francisco (USF) will be showcasing the industry’s first 100% online Master Certificate in Internet Marketing program at the upcoming Search Engine Strategies (SES) 2010 Conference and Expo.

SES New York, the industry’s largest Search Engine Marketing (SEM) conference, is being held at the New York Hilton, March 22-26, 2010. This year USF’s online program faculty member, Joe Laratro, will present his leading-edge Search Engine Marketing (SEM) tactics, “Bringing SEO In-House,” on Wednesday, March 24, 2010.

“The Search Engine Strategies Expo is a great opportunity for marketing professionals to meet the leading SEM experts and learn firsthand about USF’s 100% online internet marketing training courses,” said, Pete Schatschneider, University Alliance senior brand manager for USF’s online certificate programs.

“Attendees to the conference are encouraged to stop by USF’s SES NYC Expo booth #321 and register to win an online Internet Marketing course valued at up to $2,280,” said Schatschneider. Those who cannot attend the show can still register to win a free course at http://www.USanFranOnline.com/SES.*

Solidifying its reputation as the leader in online Internet marketing training, the University of San Francisco is proud to also feature its two new specialized training certificates in Advanced Web Analytics and Advanced Social Media. These eight-week online courses offer a more intensive exploration of key digital marketing disciplines, empowering marketers with enhanced skills and broader knowledge of web analytics and social media. Like all of USF’s online offerings, the new web analytics and social media courses are led by practicing, real-world professionals who are among today’s foremost interactive marketing experts.

To learn more about the USF Master Certificate in Internet Marketing Program, visit http://www.usanfranonline.com.

About the University of San Francisco
Acclaimed as one of America’s best universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF’s online programs are offered through its School of Business and Professional Studies, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren College of Business.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments — making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

*Subject to verification of eligibility. Restrictions apply. See official rules for entry details and eligibility restrictions at the event or visit http://www.usanfranonline.com/ses. No purchase necessary.

Contact Information:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com

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U.S. News University Directory Reveals the Hiring Manager’s Perception of Online Degrees and the Job Search

2010-03-08T09:44:00.000-05:00

Tampa, Fla., March 8, 2010 -- Whether on a resume or in a job interview, stating the name and location of a degree-granting school seems like a no-brainer, but when online education was the format of choice, just how to state that (or whether to state it at all) is worth careful consideration. U.S. News University Directory shares a job seeker's experience and expert opinions on this topic.

As online education programs have become more widespread, the stigma of online degrees appears to be lessening. In a recent Excelsior College/Zogby International online survey of 1,500-plus U.S. CEOs and small business owners, more than four in five of those familiar with online or distance learning programs said they strongly believe a degree earned online is as credible as one earned through a traditional campus-based program.

One factor that has helped improve the reputation of online programs is that today “more and more known universities also offer online programs,” says Bill Driscoll, the New England district president for staffing firm Robert Half International. “Increasingly it’s becoming more common, and as that happens that will add to the credibility of these programs.”

Some experts believe it’s really only online programs offered by traditional brick-and-mortar institutions that truly have gained acceptance. Twenty years of surveys conducted by GetEducated.com, which reviews and ranked online degree programs, have found “a heavy stigma exists in the minds of employers if the school on your resume is seen as an online only school,” says Vicky Phillips, founder and chief education analyst. “If this is the case, then the applicant should be prepared to counter this stigma with the known and respected positive work traits correlated with success in online education students.”

When to Make the Case
That’s how Jennie Dugan – who earned a bachelor’s degree from Regents College (now Excelsior College) in 2000 after earning an associate’s degree through traditional classes – has approached her job searches. She has her spiel down pat.

“When I decided to move into sales, I found the single thing holding me back was not having a bachelor’s degree,” she will explain. She had enough credits after her associates in respiratory therapy to be a second-semester junior. The route she chose to continue her education meant being “able to knock out 24 credits in less than six months by testing out of courses,” she’ll add. And then she will share how she got up at 6 a.m. to study, even on weekends, and how she drove to distant locations to work in the required tests – “a demonstration of my autonomy.”

Dugan will sum up her skills like this: “I can see what needs to be done, develop a plan, implement it, and get results in a short time frame. … It really does take discipline and the ability to self-structure, which is a natural quality in most independent sales representatives.”

How well has that explanation worked? The six or so interviews she’s had since graduation resulted in four offers, including the one for her current job in sales and marketing at a hospital laboratory.

Some experts say these explanations are best left off a resume or cover letter and for the interview, and even then only when asked.

“I’m of the ‘if they don’t ask, don’t tell’ side of the camp,” says Roberta Chinsky Matuson, president of Human Resource Solutions, who provides employee recruitment and other HR services to businesses and nonprofits. “Why should a job candidate send up a potential red flag?”

“My advice for the resume, as well as for the cover letter, is to simply list the name of the institution as well as the city and state,” explains Cheryl Palmer, a certified professional resume writer, executive career coach, and founder of the coaching firm Call to Career. “There really is no need to mention that it was an online program since the real issue is that you have a degree. … For most professionals, the delivery format of the instruction is irrelevant.” (Where it does matter to employers: fields such as nursing or engineering where hands-on experience is critical to the candidate’s knowledge base.)

But might waiting to reveal detailed educational information in an interview be a mistake? “Job seekers run a serious risk of giving the impression that they’re trying to hide something – because you are trying to hide something,” says Phil Rosenberg, president of reCareered, a coaching service.

Driscoll also recommends being upfront. In particular, if the name of the online institution or program identifies the delivery method, use that name.

The only time career coach Miriam Salpeter of Keppie Careers advises revealing an online degree on a resume is when there’s a geographical conflict to explain – such as a degree from a school in Maryland earned while working in Florida. And in that case, “simply stating ‘accredited online degree program’ should suffice,” she says.

Keep this in mind, she adds: “Unless directly asked, job candidates are not obligated to give details about their degree or how it was earned.”

Prime Positioning
Whether it’s a direct question or a vibe that an interviewer is wondering, job candidates should be prepared to position their online degree in the best way during an interview.

The goal: stress the positive work traits admired by employers that are required to be successful in learning remotely. In Phillips experience, those traits include: time management, self-motivation, forward thinking, online social networking, team building/collaboration, and the ability to learn independently.

And, notes Palmer, distance learning is popular for not only degrees but also for continuing education and company training. “Nearly everything we do in the 21st century is computer-driven,” she explains.
For Jennie Dugan, there have been moments when she knew the interviewer valued her ability to earn a degree online perhaps even more than one earned traditionally. During one interview, she shares, a pharmaceutical company manager “told me that he tried [an online degree program, but didn’t have the time to study and couldn’t pass the tests, so he opted for the traditional classes.”

About U.S. News University Directory
U.S. News University Directory – Providing comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983. Search America's Best Colleges and America's Best Graduate Schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s and MBA degrees, doctoral and PhD degrees, and certificate programs. And because U.S. News is the leading ranking resource for anyone seeking an on-campus or online degree, students who use the directory are getting the best education advice and information available.

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/online-degrees-and-job-search.aspx

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Downloadable MP4 Video Enhances Online Education Programs from Leading Universities

2010-03-03T09:24:00.003-05:00

University Alliance Online Introduces MP4 Download Availability for all Online Certificate Programs Offered through Villanova, Tulane, Notre Dame and the University of San Francisco

TAMPA, Fla., March 2, 2010 – With the advent of mobile learning technology and the rising demand for virtual m-learning classroom applications, the University Alliance Online, a global leader in interactive professional education continues to be on the cutting edge of technology.

Now, students attending Villanova University, Tulane University, the University of Notre Dame and the University of San Francisco can take their online learning mobile thanks to the new MP4 course lecture downloads for all online certificate programs.

According to the “2010 Horizon Report” by the New Media Consortium (NMC), the mobile market is booming. Over a billion new phones are produced each year, and thousands of applications available for virtually any smart phone – with more entering the market each day.

“Today, people expect anytime, anywhere access to data and services that used to be available only on a desktop,” said Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of University Alliance Online. “The portability of mobile devices and their ability to store and play MP3 and MP4 files makes them ideal tools for mobile learning.”

Students currently utilizing the MP3 audio feature for Villanova’s online certificate programs are touting the added benefits of the new downloadable MP4 video formats.

“I really enjoy the online learning experience and especially the new MP4 video download feature,” said Dafe Ojaide, a business professional completing Villanova’s Six Sigma online Master Certificate program. “I am always on the go so the ability to download my classes onto my iPod and Blackberry is perfect for my busy schedule.”

The MP4 feature supports mobile learning by offering course lectures in video formats. Students in the programs can simply select the online certificate course files they want, download them to their computers, and transfer the files to their iPods, iPhones, Blackberries, Droids or other mobile devices.

The University Alliance’s state-of-the-art e-learning system immerses students in a multimedia environment that allows them to study at their convenience. The advantages of 100% online and mobile learning include:

Virtual Classroom – Two-way voice over IP, instant messaging and shared virtual whiteboards allow students to interact with fellow classmates and faculty in real time. It’s just like being in a real classroom, but this one is live on the internet.
Streaming Video Lectures – In addition to the MP3 and new MP4 media download features, participants can watch and learn from industry professionals as they deliver lectures and course material 100% online via streaming video or on CD-ROM.
Message Boards – Students can interact with instructors and classmates on key topics and class assignments.
Live Chat Rooms and Email – Being able to collaborate and communicate with faculty and classmates makes online learning convenient.

To learn more about all of the online certificate programs and universities offering the new MP4 media download feature visit http://www.universityalliance.com.

About University Alliance Online

The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, its university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments – making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. All University Alliance partners are consistently rated among America’s best universities in national publications such as U.S. News & World Report and BusinessWeek. University Alliance partners include Villanova University, the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business, the University of San Francisco, the University of South Florida, Florida Institute of Technology,
The University of Scranton, Dominican University and Jacksonville University.

Contact Information:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Bisk Education/University Alliance Online
813-621-6200
http://www.universityalliance.com

# # #

Four Myths About the Online Education Experience

2010-02-23T09:50:00.000-05:00

U.S. News University Directory in collaboration with E-learning insiders clear up four common myths about the online learning experience and how online classes are perceived.

Tampa, Fla., February 23, 2010 -- Online classes are being offered seemingly everywhere, but don’t make the mistake of jumping on, or steering clear of, distance learning without knowing the facts.

Myth 1: My online class will be easier than a face-to-face one.

“People are sometimes unpleasantly surprised that it’s not easier,” says Kathleen Moore, executive director of the University of South Florida’s (USF) ECampus. ECampus supports more than 84,000 enrollments in 2,000-plus distance learning sections each year, and since “regular faculty are teaching both online and face-to-face courses, there’s probably 100% comparability in terms of students’ workloads and the demands,” she adds.

“A graduate course is a graduate course, whether you take it online or in the classroom,” says Ellen Waterman, associate dean for distance education at Regis University in Denver.

“I have heard online courses are even more challenging than in person,” notes Waterman, a frequent presenter at education technology conferences whose division in the College for Professional Studies helps faculty design and develop courses for online delivery. When online courses are developed, everything is thought through beforehand and all the learning activities are built to fit the course objectives, she explains. While classroom environments can be more free flowing, that’s a little less possible online, where professors use the same course template.

Myth 2: I won’t be interacting much with the instructor and other students.

This misconception “pretty much goes away as soon as a person engages with an online course,” Moore says. From chat rooms and discussion boards to class discussions held in real time (sometimes even in-person, for “hybrid” courses or in instances where the instructor likes to have everyone possible meet at least once in the beginning), there are lots of chances to interact. At USF, where many online learning students are local, it’s common for instructors to have students come in for the first day of class, she notes.

At USF and other institutions, instructors get special training in strategies for building a feeling of community in online courses. “Active learning strategies are specifically set up to create an atmosphere where students can participate in dialogue with each other and with faculty, Waterman says.

“Some of the best learning you do is through the groups you study with,” points out Waterman. She hopes students seeking online programs look for ones where interaction is key.

Participation is generally key to getting a good grade. “It is much harder to ‘hide’ in an online course than in a classroom. I am reviewing every post by each student. I can tell who is contributing and who is not,” says Patricia Carroll, an alumna of the nursing school at Excelsior College (N.Y.), where she is now an adjunct faculty member in the School of Health Sciences who teaches online courses only. A registered nurse and founder of the consumer health resource website Nurse’s Notebook, Carroll explains that contributions to online discussions count as class “attendance.”

Luckily for those who tend to be shy, online course interaction is often easier than speaking up in front of a class. “If you’re participating in a message board, you can compose your message before you send it, think about it without having to be so spontaneous,” says Moore.

Myth 3: I’m not tech-savvy enough to enroll.

Carroll puts it this way: “I’m pretty geeky, but many of my students are not.” Students need a reliable internet service provider, ideally with a broadband connection, knowledge of Microsoft Office, basic e-mail skills, and virus protection software, she says.

Her students can turn to Excelsior’s tech support team or troubleshooting resources that are part of the learning management system Blackboard. “‘I couldn’t upload my paper’ is the new ‘dog ate my homework’ and it doesn’t work any better as an excuse,” Carroll says.

Students at Regis, which also uses Blackboard, tend to turn to faculty as the “first line of tech support,” Waterman says, adding that Regis has 24-hour tech support available.

At USF, “We try to make sure that instructors are conversant with all the functionality of the technology so they can help the students and model the online behavior,” Moore says. Pre-course training on using Blackboard is also available.

Myth 4: My degree won’t be respected by employers.

Moore sees this as a real concern both for students and faculty not yet involved in online learning. “The bottom line is that online is a delivery mode. We’re basically delivering the same programs and courses that we deliver in the face-to-face mode on campus, or face-to-face at off-campus locations,” she says. “There are clearly online programs that are not accredited and not of quality, but there are also face-to face programs that are not accredited and not of good quality. Online delivery doesn’t say anything about the quality of the program.”

But do employers know that? An article in the spring 2009 issue of the Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration that reviewed seven years of studies and articles about how potential employers perceive online degrees concluded that there may still be a “marked stigma attached to online degrees throughout the hiring process” within the industries studied. Studies have shown that they may perceive these degrees as lacking rigor and face-to-face interaction, associated with diploma mills, having increased potential for academic dishonesty, and indicating concern about students’ true commitment.

Yet some themes emerged in the review, namely that certain conditions can influence online degrees acceptance, including reputation of the institution and accreditation. In addition, there seems to be a perception that online graduates must be more self-directed and disciplined.

“There are diploma mills out there, which hurt us all,” says Carroll. “But the characteristics of a successful online student – takes personal responsibility, reliable, computer literate, able to express self in writing, goal-oriented – those are the characteristics I want in a professional employee.”

When Waterman checked in with two people from well-known technology companies to get a sense for what they thought about online degrees, they both pointed out that their companies had supported and even paid for master’s degrees earned online. They also noted that most of the training done at their companies is delivered online.

Still, the fear of people looking down on a degree earned online may be a reason some people seek online programs offered by traditional institutions. As Waterman says, “The degree looks the same. It doesn’t say how you did the work.”

About U.S. News University Directory
U.S. News University Directory – Providing comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983. Search America's Best Colleges and America's Best Graduate Schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s and MBA degrees, doctoral and PhD degrees, and certificate programs. And because U.S. News is the leading ranking resource for anyone seeking an on-campus or online degree, students who use the directory are getting the best education advice and information available.
Contact:

Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/four-myths-online-experience.aspx

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Nationally Recognized Supply Chain Management Program Prepares for Green Job Training Federal Grants

2010-02-17T09:31:00.000-05:00

The University of San Francisco’s Online Green Supply Chain Management Course Keeps Pace with the Rising Demand for Green Jobs Training

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 17, 2010 — Everything’s coming up green thanks to President Obama’s priority focus on green jobs creation and training. Since the beginning of this year, the U.S. Department of Labor has awarded $290 million toward green jobs training grants, and aims to prepare more than 120,000 Americans for environmentally friendly jobs by 2012.
Which means, across every industry, there will be a growing demand for green supply chain supervisors and managers looking to bridge the divide between an aging, fossil-fuel-based economy and a new, energy-efficient one.

Ahead of the curve are training programs like the University of San Francisco’s (USF) 100% online Green Supply Chain Management course. Regionally accredited universities such as USF are doing their part to help reduce America’s carbon footprint by creating the expert leaders today’s organizations need to “go green” and to successfully compete on a global scale.

“Funding for green jobs training in the U.S. is on the rise and for those interested in pursuing a green career, there’s never been a better time,” said USF online faculty member and supply chain expert Neil O’Connell.
According to the Pew Charitable Trusts’ study, “The Clean Economy: Repowering Jobs, Businesses and Investments Across America,” the number of jobs in America’s emerging clean energy economy grew nearly two and a half times faster than overall jobs between 1998 and 2007.

“Companies nationwide now recognize the major importance of their green supply chain, and find themselves competing for a very limited number of qualified supply chain specialists,” said O’Connell. “Eager professionals who invest in themselves with a university-backed, expert-led supply chain training program will reap the rewards throughout their career.”

USF’s comprehensive Green Supply Chain Management takes an in-depth look at the implications of today’s most pressing environmental issues and demonstrates how green practices can actually save money, increase efficiency and reduce delivery time. Led by top supply chain, sustainability and environmental experts, this eight-week advanced specialized certificate course is offered 100% online and prepares professionals to successfully implement a green supply chain in any industry.

Graduates of USF’s online Green Supply Chain Management training will find their skills much in demand. The World Resources Institute reports that currently 60 corporations are now measuring the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of their products and supply chains. And international giants such as Nike and Cisco are spearheading new efforts to create a better environment.

Nike has implemented Lean and Human Resource Management training in its contract factories, which is one of the company’s key strategies to build a lean and green supply chain. Moreover, Cisco has reduced its GHG by 40% compared to fiscal year 2007, in part by implementing energy-efficiency programs.

USF’s green supply chain management training program benefits professionals involved in any step of the supply chain, enabling them to leverage eco-friendly practices to reduce costs and comply with environmental legislation. It is also essential for environmental health and safety (EHS) practitioners, corporate social responsibility (CSR) specialists and C-level executives, whose actions and policies concerning green issues have a tremendous impact on consumer opinions of their organizations.

Some examples of positions in green supply chain management include:
Procurement

Industrial engineer
Logistics specialist
Sales analyst
Transport manager
Warehouse specialist
Energy efficiency consultant

Corporate Social Responsibility

Supply management
Sustainability officer
Community relations officer
Compliance officer

Metrics

Standards developer
Environmental auditor
Recycling manager
Supply management analyst

For more details on USF’s online green supply chain training - as well as its comprehensive Master Certificate in Supply Chain Management program - call 800-436-1713 or visit http://www.USanFranOnline.com.

About the University of San Francisco
Acclaimed as one of America’s best universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF’s online programs are offered through its School of Business and Professional Studies, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren College of Business.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com

# # #

Social Media Trumps Super Bowl Commercials in Pepsi's Latest Advertising Campaigns

2010-02-02T10:10:00.001-05:00

The University of San Francisco's Online Advanced Social Media Training Program Is Leading the Way as Major Corporations Shift Advertising Gears

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- When this year's Super Bowl commercials hit the airwaves, many familiar brands will return, but one will not. For the first time in 23 years, Pepsi opted to take a different approach with its annual advertising budget. The carbonated beverage company is moving from the TV to the Internet, by giving away over $20 million "to move communities forward" in a social media advertising campaign called "The Pepsi Refresh Project."

"Pepsi's decision to utilize social media certainly created a national buzz, but comes as no surprise," said Jay Berkowitz, instructor and interactive marketing expert for the University of San Francisco (USF) Internet marketing training program. Although the Super Bowl attracts approximately 42% of all U.S. TV homes, over 85% currently use a form of social media(1).

The epicenter of Pepsi's Refresh Project is an interactive web community, which allows visitors to apply for their own grant, as well as vote for those who have already applied. Pepsi will fund six categories that will contribute to making a difference in the applicant's community.

Pepsi isn't the only major corporation taking to the Internet. Domino's has launched its "Pizza Turnaround" campaign which exploits its customers' complaints and showcases corporate members doing something about it in a viral video located on its Pizza Turnaround website. This dedicated website allows Domino's to have a greater level of public and customer interaction. All comments - good and bad - are on the website for all to see.

The Truth About Social Media
Over the next five years social media marketing is projected to grow at an annual rate of 34%, according to Forrester Research. Social networks have also proven to be an effective way to gauge - and achieve - Internet marketing success, offering unlimited opportunities for feedback, promotion, brand-building and monetization.

"If you aren't listening to and participating in the conversations that take place in the social media realm, you won't know when your brand is succeeding or faltering - and you won't be able to react quickly to customer comments or concerns," explained USF instructor and social media expert Christopher S. Penn.

Social Media Helps
Social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter help a wide variety of businesses communicate with the public. They can also help in the face of disaster. After an earthquake rocked Haiti recently, musician Wyclef Jean took to Twitter (as did many of his celebrity friends) urging followers on the social network to donate $5 to Jean's Yele Haiti Foundation. In a matter of days over $1 million was raised, and it's still climbing. In another recent example, Facebook spurred a viral campaign where members urged friends to donate to the Red Cross via text messages, raising over $35 million in donations in just 48 hours(2). Facebook also helped raise over $100,000 for various charities with its Causes application, as well(2).

Facebook's statistic page shows that it currently has over 350 million active users, which gives over 700,000 local businesses an outlet to interact with their public. Most people are not aware that ahead of personal email, visiting social sites is now the fourth most popular online activity(3). With over two-thirds of the global Internet population visiting social networking sites(3), it's no wonder that Internet marketing professionals come to USF for its 100% online Master Certificate in Internet Marketing and Advanced Social Media training programs.

For more details on these courses call 800-436-1713 or visit http://www.USanFranOnline.com. Agencies and marketing departments can learn about corporate training solutions, customization options and agency/group discounts at http://www.InteractiveMarketingTraining.com.

Connect With USF Online
Keep up on the latest social media trends with USF's interactive marketing groups on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter at http://www.USanFranOnline.com/social

About the University of San Francisco
Acclaimed as one of America's best universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF's online programs are offered through its School of Business and Management, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren Undergraduate College of Business.

References Cited:
(1) Universal McCann's large-scale "Media in Mind" tracking study - via MarketingCharts.
(2) Information provided by Insidefacebook.com
(3) Nielson, Global Faces and Networked Places, 2009

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com

Villanova University’s IS Security Government Program Achieves Requirements of the Committee on National Security Systems 4011

2010-01-27T10:48:00.003-05:00

New 100% Online Program Has Been Recognized by Top Information Assurance Body

TAMPA, Fla., Jan. 27, 2010 — The Information Assurance Courseware Evaluation (IACE) Program has certified that Villanova University’s latest government-focused online IS security program conforms 100% to the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS) National Standard for Information Systems Security (INFOSEC) Professionals, NSTISSI No. 4011. This designation enables participants in the Master Certificate in IS Security Management - Government and the Advanced Information Assurance and Management - Government course to prepare for career-boosting information assurance certifications. Students will receive a joint certificate for meeting CNSS National Standard 4011 and completing Villanova’s three-course master certificate.

“We are pleased that IACE has recognized Villanova’s IS government training program as meeting all the requirements of CNSS National Standard 4011, one of the most stringent government security standards today,” said lead Villanova IS Security faculty member and renowned expert Michael Gregg, CISSP(R). IACE, a program devoted to expanding the use of national standards in information assurance training throughout the nation, ensures that recognized institutions meet the national training standards for properly executing the duties and responsibilities of INFOSEC Professionals, Senior Systems Managers, Systems Administrators, Information Systems Security Officers, Systems Certifiers and Risk Analysts.
The CNSS, comprised of representatives from 21 U.S. government departments and agencies, provides a forum for the discussion of policy issues, sets national policy, and promulgates direction, operational procedures and guidance for the security of national security systems. CNSS National Standard 4011 is applicable to all departments and agencies of the U.S. government, their employees and contractors who are responsible for the security oversight or management of national security systems, including agencies such as the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

In addition to preparing students to meet CNSS National Standard 4011, Villanova’s Master Certificate in IS Security Management - Government covers the bodies of knowledge for critical certifications meeting Department of Defense Directive 8570.1, which requires all personnel with privileged access to DoD security systems to obtain a commercial security credential approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). These include:

CAP(R)

CISSP(R)

SSCP(R)

CompTIA Security+(TM)

Upon evaluating Villanova’s CNSS training program, IACE noted, “The streaming video learning modules developed by the university provided an excellent mode to communicate key ideas from numerous seasoned professionals.” IACE also acknowledged the program’s focus on current trends and threats such as warchalking, Google hacking and “cantennas,” which exploit wireless network vulnerabilities.

An article appearing in the May 6, 2009 edition of The Wall Street Journal shows that now is an opportune time for IS professionals to seek CNSS certification. According to “U.S. Cyber Infrastructure Vulnerable to Attacks,” the Department of Defense reported 360 million attempts to infiltrate its data networks in 2008 - up from six million in 2006. Increasing cyber attacks cost the U.S. government $100 million in the first half of 2009 alone. As a result, federal government agencies are seeking additional highly trained and credentialed security personnel.

For more information or to register for Villanova’s latest 100% online master certificate, IS Security Management - Government, and the Advanced Information Assurance and Management - Government course, go to http://www.VillanovaU.com today.

About Villanova University
Founded in 1842, Villanova University is the worldwide leader in professional education online. A traditional, accredited university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, it has more than 106,000 alumni, NCAA Division I athletic teams, unparalleled academic and technical support, and an outstanding faculty - over 90% of whom hold the highest degrees in their field. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Villanova the #1 Master’s University in the Northern Region for nearly two decades.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Villanova University/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.villanovau.com

Five Steps to Reaching 2010 Career Goals

2009-12-31T09:46:00.002-05:00

U.S. News University Directory Brings Job Seekers of the Coming Decade a New Path to Success

TAMPA, Fla., December 30, 2009 -- January 1st, 2010 will not just be the start of a new year, but the beginning of an entire decade. It’s an excellent opportunity to set big plans in motion; millions of career professionals are now reflecting on their past achievements and thinking about what they want to accomplish in the future. Many are even considering major changes – either advancing their current career or starting an entirely new one. U.S. News University Directory is proud to bring job seekers of the next decade these five steps to success.

Starting down a new career path requires careful planning. Lack of preparation is one of the main reasons why so many people make New Year’s resolutions, but so few actually keep them. These steps can mean the difference between achieving career goals and staying in the same job for another decade:

1. Set Specific Goals – “Earn more money” or “get a promotion” are usually too general to help individuals formulate a successful plan. It’s too easy to technically meet such a goal without actually achieving anything significant (after all, getting a 2% cost-of-living raise qualifies as earning more, but it’s not really a major step forward). Instead, job seekers should think about all the changes they want to make and then list them in detail. “Get promoted to sales manager with a pay increase of at least 5%” is a good, specific goal.

2. Determine What Training is Needed – Depending on how much education a given professional currently has and what kind of credentials their goals require, going back to school might be necessary. This could be a minor task or a major commitment; a certificate in HTML might mean one semester of online classes, while an Executive MBA can require two years of full-time study at a major university. Carefully research what kind of education a new position or new career will require, then find an accredited school that offers such a program at an affordable price.

3. Get Educated – Once a professional knows what credentials their career goals require, they have to go earn them. For anyone working full-time, this will probably mean evening classes and plenty of discipline to balance job needs against the requirements of their coursework. Online classes can be a big help with this; if a school offers them, working students should take as many as they can. The flexibility and self-pacing of online study can be a huge benefit. And finally, don’t forget to explore all available financial aid options, including employer reimbursement programs. The less time students have to spend worrying about finances, the more they can spend studying.

4. Be Prepared for Setbacks – Working toward a major goal means that there will be occasional problems. Don’t allow them to become excuses for giving up on career aspirations. Instead, learn from mistakes; determine what went wrong and why, then correct the problem in order to succeed on the next attempt.

5. Get Your Name Out There – Once the credentials needed to get the job or promotion are earned, pursue it aggressively. First, career professionals should update their resume with their new degree or certificate. Then submit it to their potential employers by every means available. Employment websites are a good place to start, but not to stop. Having a resume on the Internet casts a wide net that could eventually land a career seeker their dream job, but more precise targeting usually speeds the process along. This means attending job fairs, sending emails and even applying for jobs in person. Career seekers should find out how each potential employer prefers to receive resumes, then make sure to submit theirs that way. And anyone with a new credential should remember to update their profile on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and other social networking sites. Finally, always follow up on call-backs and requests for more information (such as references) promptly.

Remember that deciding to advance or change a career is not limited to a certain date, even the New Year or new decade. It can be done at any time; those who are willing to get the education they need and vigorously pursue job opportunities can achieve the career goals they set!

About U.S. News University Directory
U.S. News University Directory – Providing comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983. Search America's Best Colleges and America's Best Graduate Schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s and MBA degrees, doctoral and PhD degrees, and certificate programs. And because U.S. News is the leading ranking resource for anyone seeking an on-campus or online degree, students who use the directory are getting the best education advice and information available.

The original version of this article is posted on the U.S. News University Connection website at http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/get-prepared-for-new-year.aspx

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587

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Ahead of the Recovery: Top Careers to Watch in 2010

2009-12-29T11:22:00.004-05:00

Featuring Online Executive Training, the New 2009-2010 University Alliance Catalog Provides Insight on Tomorrow's Skills for Today's Leaders

TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- This year's University Alliance publication titled Online Executive Education details several career fields to watch in 2010. From government contract managers to computer and information systems managers, the New Year holds the promise of a brighter future in a number of managerial career fields.

Collaborating with the University Alliance, nationally recognized universities including Villanova, Notre Dame, Tulane and the University of San Francisco are keeping pace with the most in-demand jobs by providing educational programs designed to help professionals master their industry's skills and gain a competitive edge in today's evolving marketplace.

Faced with economic pressures on multiple fronts, businesses are closely monitoring the bottom line -- and scrutinizing the necessity of each employee. From small start-up companies and not-for-profit organizations to Fortune 500 enterprises, businesses of all sizes are responding to the sobering realities of an ailing economy with staff reductions, hiring freezes and unpaid furloughs. Such turbulent times require specialized job skills to help you avoid the chopping block or find a new job.

So how are today's professionals securing the best jobs despite rising unemployment rates, the ensuing recession and uncertain results from the federal stimulus bill?

"The combination of traditional top-ranked universities and convenient online professional education has proven particularly important to many people who have lost their jobs in the recession," said Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of University Alliance Online. "Whether you're just starting out or you're an experienced pro, now is the ideal time for a career training makeover." Professionals seeking higher education can choose from over 50 must-have business credentials from the nation's leading university -- 100% online.

Here's a look at some on the rise career fields that deserve attention in the next year:

Government Contract Management
Stimulus spending is fueling the need for contract managers to track and report on expenditure of public funds through local, state and federal government agencies. Government contract managers are key in controlling risk and cost, providing tighter accountability and improving forecasting. According to the National Contract Management Association, government contract managers earn a yearly compensation in excess of $100,000. The salary can increase with experience and CFCM(R) or CPCM(R) certification.

Many graduates enter directly into an executive training program like Villanova's Master Certificate in Government Contract Management. These programs are designed for professionals who want to strengthen their negotiating skills for the government sector through a more thorough understanding of the process. Although the competition for these positions can be fierce, a well-skilled candidate who has firm educational credentials will enjoy good job prospects.

Project Management
Project management is among the fastest-growing professional disciplines in North America. This is attributed to the fact that even the smallest project can benefit from planning, time and cost management, scope management, human resource management and communications management. Success in the workplace demands advanced skills in critical thinking and problem solving, as well as a kind of intellectual agility that enables one to shift readily from one task or project to another.

Those with project management experience should consider earning their PMP(R) (Project Management Professional) certification, a credential that can push annual salaries well into six-figure territory and increase job security. In order to prepare for PMP certification, many professionals elect to enroll in online project management training programs like Villanova's Master Certificate in Applied Project Management.

Information Technology (IT)
A nationwide U.S. survey of chief information officers (CIOs) shows that more employers now plan to hire rather than lay off IT professionals in the first quarter of 2010, with most hiring for entry-level and junior staff in full-time jobs. Professionals, who design, develop, implement, support or manage computer-based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware will be in high demand when stimulus funding kicks in next year.

Companies will be scrambling to fill IT jobs ranging from programmers and systems architects to software engineers. IT professionals with key skill sets are sought after by employers in healthcare, manufacturing and other industries, resulting in higher-than-average compensation. For example, computer and information systems managers earn $118,000 annually, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Salaries typically are even higher for professionals with industry certifications.

Villanova's online IS security program offers tracks that lead to a Master Certificate in IS Security, Information Security Management or Information Security Management -- Government. These programs are designed to prepare individuals for the certification exams offered by (ISC)2(R) and CompTIA(R).

Six Sigma -- Healthcare
Six Sigma-trained professionals will continue to be in high demand through 2010, with Six Sigma Black Belts earning an average of $104,083, according to the recent iSixSigma Global Salary Survey.

The error-reducing Six Sigma methodology is fast becoming required knowledge for healthcare professionals involved in helping hospitals, clinics and other facilities streamline productivity and improve performance. Professionals who master Six Sigma healthcare practices can become recognized leaders guiding projects that result in breakthrough improvements and improved bottom-line results.

About University Alliance Online

The University Alliance facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation's leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA's technology and support services, its university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments. University Alliance partners include Villanova University, the University of Notre Dame's Mendoza College of Business, Tulane University's Freeman School of Business, the University of San Francisco, the University of South Florida, Florida Institute of Technology, The University of Scranton, Dominican University and Jacksonville University.

Contact:

Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University Alliance Online
813-621-6200
http://www.universityallianceonline.com

Textbooks Enter the Digital Era

2009-12-29T10:13:00.002-05:00

New Companies and Organizations are Ready to Usher in an Age of Paperless Texts

Tampa, Fla., December 29, 2009 -- The average college student’s textbook bill can run more than $1,200 a year. In a decade already marked by economic recession, high unemployment and dwindling student loans, that amount of money can be a huge burden. But if organizations like Orange Grove Texts Plus have their way, expensive – and bulky – paper textbooks might be a thing of the past.

Orange Grove Texts Plus is a partnership between the University Press of Florida (the Florida university system’s nonprofit publishing arm), Integrated Book Technology (a Virginia publisher) and The Orange Grove (Florida’s digital database of K-20 teaching material). This program offers students digital versions of over 140 textbooks and scholarly monographs for free, and bound printed versions for $30 to $50. Eventually, Orange Grove Texts Plus plans to stock more than 1600 titles.

Students Ready, But Others Might Not Be
Even with programs like Orange Grove Texts Plus springing up all across the country – Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California recently started such an initiative for his state’s high schools – digital textbooks only make up about 2% of the current market. But it is seldom students who resist this kind of technology. After all, they’ve grown up with computers and the Internet – they’re accustomed to getting their information online. Studying on a laptop, smart phone or wireless reading device is hardly a stretch for them.

However, college and university faculty members are another story – and sometimes with good reason. Jack Mecholsky, chair of the University of Florida’s Faculty Senate, recently told Inside Higher Ed that “If the state amasses a library of free books selected without faculty input, it may be only a matter of time before some lawmaker with a populist streak tries to mandate that faculty assign only those books in their classes.”

“That’s the danger, and I could see that happening,” said Mecholsky. “What happens is lawmakers have just made an academic decision that that textbook is right for all professors and all students taking that course, and that’s wrong.” He also went on to note that “It sounds so good the way they present it, but then you say what are the unintended consequences? And they don’t think about that at all. We’re constantly fighting things like that.”

An Idea Whose Time Has Come
Unintended consequences or not, the move to digital course materials is probably inevitable. A government study recently found that textbook prices have ballooned at twice the annual inflation rate over the past 20 years. This has become such a burden to students that some states have passed legislation aimed at making them more affordable, and for-profit businesses now see an opportunity to break into the digital textbook market.

CourseSmart is a company that has over 7,300 titles that students can buy at a significantly lower price than the traditional paper versions. And Amazon.com, now the largest book retailer in the U.S., is taking part in a study with seven universities to evaluate the success of digital textbooks. So even if free programs like Orange Grove Texts Plus don’t emerge as the standard, it appears that lower-cost, course materials are going to become more and more common in the coming years.
It’s a safe bet that few students will choose to strain their already-thin wallets on bulky textbooks if a less expensive option is made available. And course materials that can be stored and read on a computer or smart phone will appeal to today’s tech-savvy college students in any case. Even if it takes several more years for the trend to fully catch on, the time has come for textbooks to enter the digital era.

SOURCE – U.S. News University Directory – Providing comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983. Search America's Best Colleges and America's Best Graduate Schools offering associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s and MBA degrees, doctoral and PhD degrees, and certificate programs. And because U.S. News is the leading ranking resource for anyone seeking an on-campus or online degree, students who use the directory are getting the best education advice and information available.

ARTICLE – http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/digital-textbooks.aspx

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587

###

Online Degree Programs for Information Technology Careers

2009-12-17T11:37:00.006-05:00

Florida Tech offers the following information technology degrees:

Associate's in Computer Information Systems
Bachelor's in Business Administration with a specialization in Computer Information Systems
Bachelor's in Computer Information Systems Degree
MBA in Information Technology Management
Master's in Information Technology

Villanova University Unveils 100% Online Master of Science in Human Resource Development

2009-12-02T09:41:00.004-05:00

HR Master's Degree Empowers Professionals With Executive-Level HR Skills

TAMPA, Fla., Dec. 2 -- Villanova University, ranked #1 Master's University in the Northern Region for nearly two decades by U.S. News & World Report, is proud to announce that its Master of Science in Human Resource Development degree is now offered 100% online. This advancement means more people than ever can experience the Villanova difference through its leading HR master's degree program. Classes for the 30-credit-hour program start in March 2010, with enrollment beginning December 1, 2009. Like Villanova's growing array of popular online certificate programs, this degree utilizes innovative online learning technology to deliver expert instruction to students from the field's foremost educators. It's the ideal way for HR professionals to earn a respected credential that equips them with today's most sought-after skills.

"With this program, Villanova introduces online convenience to the proven, ground-based HR master's program it established more than 25 years ago," says Adele Lindenmeyr, Ph.D., and Dean of Graduate Studies for the university's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. "Now students virtually anywhere can expand their HR skills and credentials by earning a master's in human resources entirely online - from the same accomplished HR faculty who teach here on campus. The program removes the barriers of time and location, putting an HR master's degree within reach for many who otherwise might not be able to fit a traditional campus-based graduate education into their schedule."

The timing of Villanova's online human resource master's degree couldn't be more advantageous for potential candidates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, overall HR employment is projected to jump 17% by 2016. Those completing their master's in human resources will be in a prime position to meet the growing demand for highly skilled professionals in the HR field. The credential will help graduates distinguish themselves, and give them the opportunity to experience greater job stability, earning potential, career mobility and professional fulfillment.

To request more information about joining the inaugural class of Villanova's online Master of Science degree in Human Resource Development, go to http://www.VillanovaU.com/MHRD today or call 866-220-0017.

About Villanova University
Founded in 1842, Villanova University is the worldwide leader in professional education online. A traditional, accredited university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, it has more than 94,000 alumni, NCAA Division I athletic teams, unparalleled academic and technical support, and an outstanding faculty - over 90% of whom hold the highest degrees in their field. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Villanova the #1 Master's University in the Northern Region for nearly two decades.

About Bisk Education, Inc.
Founded in 1971, Bisk Education offers end-to-end, lifelong-learning solutions that allow working adults to reach their personal and professional goals through education. The University Alliance (UA), a division of Bisk, facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation's leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA's technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments - making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. U.S. News University Directory, part of the Bisk network, provides comprehensive and unbiased information on more than 2,000 academic institutions directly from U.S. News & World Report, the most trusted source for college and university rankings since 1983.

Contact:

Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Villanova University/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.villanovau.com

University Alliance Helps Americans Tap Into the Billions of Education Dollars Pledged by President Obama

2009-11-17T10:00:00.011-05:00

University Alliance is easing the financial burden by offering exclusive savings on a broad selection of online certificate programs from the nation’s leading universities

TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 17, 2009 -- This year's University Alliance catalog titled Online Executive Education features exclusive savings on more than 50 in-demand online certificate programs from nationally recognized universities including Villanova, Notre Dame, Tulane and the University of San Francisco. These professional courses are offered 100% online and include must-have training in popular fields such as Project Management, Supply Chain Management and Leadership.

“The course offerings are comprehensive, to say the least,” said Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of University Alliance Online, which provides world-class training from America's leading universities. “These programs were designed with today's professionals and executives in mind, who are constantly expanding their skill sets in order to adapt to a changing economic climate.”

The publication also provides insight on the economic stimulus package, known as the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA), which includes billions of dollars for education and job training. That's good news for individuals looking to advance in their current position, change jobs or rebound after a layoff.

President Barack Obama is counting on the new ARRA funding to help make education more affordable and accessible to every American. "In a global economy, where the most valuable skill you can sell is your knowledge, a good education is no longer just a pathway to opportunity. It is a prerequisite," said President Obama, who has challenged each American to commit to at least one year of higher education or career training.

With the nation’s unemployment rate recently reaching 10.2%, the need for professional development has never been more urgent. Despite the economic challenges, the University Alliance remains optimistic and committed to the President’s mission of restoring American leadership in higher education.

Some of the most popular career-building offerings are the specialized Six Sigma Master Certificate programs from Villanova University, the worldwide leader in professional education online. The certificate courses – Green Belt, Lean Six Sigma, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt – are taught by experts including best-selling Six Sigma author and consultant George Eckes.

In addition, Villanova’s Lean Master Black Belt certification is the industry’s only program offered 100% online. According to a recent iSixSigma Global Salary Survey, Six Sigma Black Belts earn an average of $104,083 a year and Six Sigma Master Black Belts earn an average of $134,779 a year.

In another industry first, the University of San Francisco has created the only end-to-end Internet marketing certificate program offered 100% online - and it's available through the catalog.

To learn more about these programs and many others, view the new University Alliance catalog at http://www.universityalliance.com/info1/UA_PDFs/UA_Catalog/UA_Cat_Fall2009.pdf.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation's leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA's technology and support services, its university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments - making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. University Alliance partners include Villanova University, the University of Notre Dame's Mendoza College of Business, Tulane University's Freeman School of Business, the University of San Francisco, Florida Institute of Technology, The University of Scranton, Dominican University and Jacksonville University.

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CPE Reporting Deadline Looms for Accounting Professionals

2009-11-05T10:14:00.006-05:00

New CPEasy Catalog Features Hundreds of CPE Courses That Deliver Timely and Relevant Information on Today’s Must-Know Topics

TAMPA, Fla., November 5, 2009 – With the December 31 CPE deadline fast approaching, accountants nationwide face a twofold challenge: finding timely and relevant continuing education courses to meet their state board requirements, and earning those CPE credits with minimal disruption to their pressing work responsibilities. Bisk Education’s CPEasy product line offers an ideal solution, with hundreds of CPE courses covering the critical issues today’s CPAs need to know. Topics include the latest rules and regulations pertaining to foreclosures, bankruptcy, ARA benefits, stock losses, tax issues and credits, and more.

“As a CPA myself, I understand just how difficult it can be to find time for continuing professional education – necessary though it may be – given the equally important demands of one’s job, clients or organization,” noted Nathan M. Bisk, Founder and Chairman of Bisk Education. “In fact, that challenge was the inspiration behind my company. I wanted to make it easy for accountants to get the information they need to successfully fulfill their work responsibilities, while earning the CPE credits they need to maintain their certification. CPE should enhance job performance, not distract from it. With CPEasy, you don’t have to worry about where to find useful, high-quality CPE courses and how to get them completed and reported on time. We provide the latest news and expert analysis all in one place, making it easy to conquer even the most complex topics.”

All CPEasy programs are NASBA- and QAS-approved, and offer anywhere between 1 and 40 credit hours per course. Suitable for both individuals and firms, CPEasy courses are available online as well as via CD-ROM software, textbooks, audio CDs, video DVDs, and expert-led webcasts with live interactive question-and-answer sessions. Course topics include taxation, accounting and auditing, ethics, consulting services, management and specialized knowledge.

Accounting, tax and other finance professionals can learn more about CPEasy’s offerings – including course descriptions, credit hours, available formats and prices – in Bisk’s 2009–2010 CPEasy Catalog. The new catalog also features free trial offers and special discounts on unlimited online CPE. To obtain a FREE copy of the current CPEasy catalog, visit http://www.CPEasy.com/09F or call 800-404-7436.

About Bisk Education

Founded in 1971 by Nathan M. Bisk, JD, CPA (FL), Bisk Education is the world’s largest exclusive provider of professional education online. Bisk CPEasy, which has awarded over 14 million CPE credit hours since 1971, currently offers over 300 multimedia continuing professional education programs in a variety of multimedia formats. To learn more, visit http://www.cpeasy.com.

Contact:

Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Bisk Education CPEasy
9417 Princess Palm Avenue, Tampa, FL 33619
http://www.cpeasy.com/CorpNews.aspx?ID=56
813-621-6200

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Post-9/11 G.I. Bill Offers Exceptional New Education Benefits

2009-11-05T10:06:00.000-05:00

TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 5 /Online Learning News/ -- Earlier this year the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill went into effect, changing and expanding the education benefits available to veterans who have served since September 10, 2001. As Veteran's Day approaches, U.S. News University Directory encourages those who qualify to take advantage of this program - none are more worthy of an opportunity to achieve the American dream.

Veterans who have an honorable discharge and at least 90 days of aggregate service since September 10, 2001 can qualify for:

* Up to 100% of tuition and fee costs, depending on length of service
* A monthly housing allowance*
* A books and supplies stipend*
* College fund (or "kicker" payment), depending on rate of pursuit
* Rural benefit payment, depending on residence

Furthermore, tuition and fee payments are made by the government directly to the veteran's college or university. This is generally considered a big improvement over the Montgomery G.I. Bill, which required the student to pay tuition up front and then receive reimbursement at a later date.

The Post-9/11 G.I. Bill covers associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees, but all training programs must be offered by a degree-granting institution of higher learning. This means that some vocational, technical and preparatory programs do not qualify. However, other G.I. education benefits (such as the Montgomery G.I. Bill) do cover programs not offered by degree-granting institutions, and veterans who are eligible for these and the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill and can make a choice of which to receive. It is important to note that once this choice is made, it cannot be changed.

The Yellow Ribbon Program

Government tuition and fee payment in the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill is capped at the rate charged by the most expensive undergraduate public institution in the veteran's state of residence. This means that post-9/11 veterans attending graduate school, an out-of-state school or a private college will probably not have all of their tuition covered by their benefits.

The Yellow Ribbon Program - officially known as the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program - is a provision of the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill that allows degree-granting colleges and universities to help veterans pay tuition costs exceeding the usual cap. Under this arrangement, educational institutions can volunteer to pay up to 50% of the additional tuition and fees, and the Department of Veterans Affairs will match them dollar-for-dollar. So attending a private or out-of-state school that participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program means up to 100% of the tuition can be covered, even though that tuition is greater than the cap set by the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill.

Not all veterans are eligible. Only those who are entitled to the maximum G.I. Bill benefit rate qualify, which means that:

* They must have served an aggregate period of active duty after September 10th, 2001 of at least 36 months
* Or they must have been honorably discharged from active duty for a service-connected disability and have served 30 continuous days after September 10th, 2001

Dependents of a veteran can be eligible for a Transfer of Entitlement if the veteran's service meets the criteria listed above.

Of course, not all colleges and universities participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. When deciding on where they want to apply, eligible veterans should research both the U.S. News University Directory sponsor schools that are taking part as well as the complete list of participating institutions.

*Active duty military personnel are not eligible for the monthly housing allowance or books and supplies stipend.

Contact:

Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/post-911-gi-bill.aspx

SOURCE U.S. News University Connection

The University of Scranton to Award More Than $63,000 in Graduate School Scholarship Funds

2009-11-02T09:59:00.001-05:00

Financial Incentive Will Benefit Teachers Earning Advanced Degrees Online

TAMPA, Fla., November 2, 2009 – The University of Scranton and Bisk Education, Inc., are currently taking applications for the Bisk Foundation Scholarship, which recognizes and rewards teachers who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to social justice. This prestigious education scholarship for teachers awards financial support to master’s degree students enrolled in the Scranton Education Online (SEOL) program.

Up to eight students per year will receive the scholarship – four in the Special Fall Part A session and four in the Special Spring Part A session – for a total of $63,744 in financial support. Within each session, two graduate scholarships for teachers are available for individuals entering the Curriculum and Instruction program and two for those entering the Educational Administration program.

Each Master of Science in Education degree scholarship will continue through future sessions as long as the recipient remains a qualified SEOL student in good standing. Equivalent to one-quarter of the total tuition costs, the education scholarship for teachers is currently valued at $3,825 for Curriculum and Instruction and $4,143 for Educational Administration, and will be adjusted to reflect any future tuition increases.

“We are proud to partner with The University of Scranton in helping advance the professional development of some of our nation’s most accomplished teachers,” said Nathan M. Bisk, founder and chairman of Bisk Education.

“In addition to possessing an outstanding academic record, each scholarship recipient must demonstrate how he or she has made a positive impact on the lives of others in the classroom,” noted Mr. Bisk. “Our winners represent the very best of their field; they are committed to making a real difference in the world, and we’re honored to be able to help them in their journey.”

Scholarship Candidates Encouraged to Apply Now for Upcoming Sessions
The University of Scranton is now accepting applications for the Special Spring 2010 Part A session graduate school scholarship for teachers. All applicants must complete and submit a Bisk Foundation Scholarship form by the program deadline, which is December 1, 2009, for the Special Spring 2010 Part A session, or August 2, 2010, for the Special Fall 2010 Part A session.

Eligible applicants must be accepted as a first-time SEOL student in the Curriculum and Instruction or Educational Administration program, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or better from a regionally accredited undergraduate or graduate university. Applicants must also submit a presentation on how they have made a positive difference in the lives of others. This presentation may either be written or submitted as a video or audio recording, and may also include supporting documentation such as newspaper clippings or testimonials.

Log on to http://www.uscranton.com/graduate-scholarship http://www.uscranton.com/graduate-scholarships-teachers.asps-teachers.asp for more information and to download an application form.

About The University of Scranton javascript:void(0)
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, The University of Scranton was founded in 1888 and has been educating students in the Jesuit tradition since 1942. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 Master’s Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report. The University of Scranton is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) as well as the Commission of Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The College of Graduate and Continuing Education is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

About Bisk Education, Inc.
Founded in 1971, Bisk Education is the world’s leading provider of professional education online. The University Alliance (UA), a division of Bisk, facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments – making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

Contact:

Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
The University of Scranton/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.uscranton.com

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Online Degree Resources

2009-10-03T19:01:00.000-04:00

Information You Can Use When Choosing the Right Online Degree

Choosing an online degree can be a little overwhelming. Between deciding on a university, finding financial aid and committing to a discipline – you’ll find endless options, some of which are best avoided. That’s why we created this online degree resource page. We hope you find these articles useful in making an informed decision about your education. Check back often for the latest information regarding online degrees as we’re continually adding new resources.

Online Degree Resources
Online Associate’s Degrees
Online Bachelor’s Degrees
Online MBA Degrees
Online Business Degrees
Online Accounting Degrees
Online Criminal Justice Degrees
Information Technology Degrees

Pursuing higher education is a noble pursuit and one that has been consistently proven to positively affect career success. But be sure to do your homework before choosing the right online degree plan. Not all degrees are created equal.

Florida Tech is an accredited university offering a variety of high-demand online degree programs. Our associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees will ensure you’re ready for today’s global marketplace.

For more information about Florida Tech’s online degree programs, call 888-352-8324 or click here to request more information.

Villanova University Unveils New Online Government IS Security Program

2009-10-01T09:24:00.000-04:00

Master Certificate Prepares Federal Workers to Meet IS Security Certification Requirements and Prevent Cyber Attacks

TAMPA, Fla., October 1, 2009 ─ Villanova University, the leader in online IS security education, is proud to announce the launch of a new government security training program, the Master Certificate in Information Security Management – Government. This 100% online, three-course track helps government workers prepare for mandatory certification by imparting the latest security practices and principles. Featuring Advanced Information Assurance and Security – Government, a robust new course focusing on critical IS security issues, this master certificate program is a complete government solution.

The threat of cyber-terrorism is one of the greatest security concerns of the 21st century. Critical systems that keep the United States secure and operating smoothly are still not adequately protected within many government agencies. These vulnerabilities have led the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the National Security Agency (NSA), the Department of Defense (DoD) and other important agencies to implement rigid new compliance requirements for security training at the organizational and/or individual level.

For example, DoD Directive 8570.1 mandates all employees and contractors performing information assurance functions to obtain a commercial information security credential. Villanova’s new master certificate satisfies this directive by giving government workers the essential tools to protect information and information systems, address specific security issues, and implement all skill areas contained in the latest CompTIA Security+™ (2008 Edition), CISSP® and SSCP® bodies of knowledge.

The Villanova program also prepares government workers for CAP® certification, which satisfies Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) requirements. Further, it supports CNSS National Standards 4011 and 4012, which pertain to intelligence activities, military command and control, and other vital issues impacting national security.

“Recent attacks on government websites in the United States and other countries have underscored the need for up-to-date information assurance training,” explained Villanova instructor Michael Gregg. “Our Master Certificate in Information Security Management – Government provides government workers with the essential foundation for required IT security certifications like CISSP®, SSCP® and CAP®.”

About Villanova University
Founded in 1842, Villanova University is the worldwide leader in professional education online. A traditional, accredited university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, it has more than 94,000 alumni, NCAA Division I athletic teams, unparalleled academic and technical support, and an outstanding faculty – over 90% of whom hold the highest degrees in their field. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Villanova #1 University in the North (Master’s Division) for more than a decade.

About University Alliance Online

Learn Your Way To Success

2009-09-16T09:43:00.000-04:00

New research cited by The White House confirms that on-campus or online education is the key to earning more

If the troubled economy has taught American people anything, it’s that get-rich-quick schemes are no substitute for knowledge and hard work. Speculators can finagle a decent living during an economic boom, but the result of such opportunism is often unemployment, bankruptcy and foreclosure when times get tough. Those who want real security should acquire a good on-campus or online education; it will provide the kind of success that lasts a lifetime..

The Jobs of Tomorrow Require On-Campus or Online Education

In their report entitled Preparing the Workers of Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow, the President’s Council of Economic Advisors notes that the fastest-growing occupations are those that require education beyond high school. Whether a student pursues a traditional or distance education is becoming less and less important; most employers are simply looking for bright, well-trained professionals. They want workers who can think critically and apply expertise to solve problems.

According to the Council’s report, the most rapid growth will be in careers that require a vocational certification (which usually takes about a year to complete) or an associate’s degree (which typically takes about two). Some of these professions* are:

• Nursing aides, orderlies and attendants – vocational certification
• Truck and tractor-trailer drivers – vocational certification
• Registered Nurses (RNs) – associate’s degree
• Veterinary technicians – associate’s degree
• Web designers – associate’s degree

The Higher the Degree, the Greater the Advantages

More advanced degrees, whether earned through traditional or distance education, can offer even greater advantages to those who are willing to invest the time and effort to attain one. Professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher commonly receive better benefits, more vacation time and are less than half as likely to experience unemployment.

As the country emerges from the worst economic crisis since the great depression, Americans are starting to realize that true prosperity requires more than just having a job – it requires having a good job. The Preparing the Workers of Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow report notes that jobs “that pay high wages and provide a ticket to the middle class … disproportionately tend to employ workers with education and training beyond the high school level.” Now more than ever, workers have to learn their way to success.

*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/education-effectiveness.aspx

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University of San Francisco Expands Industry-Leading Online Supply Chain Training Program With New Courses in Green and Lean Supply Chain Management

2009-09-09T14:11:00.000-04:00

New Advanced Specialized Certificate Courses Empower Supply Chain Professionals With Business-Transforming Green and Lean Strategies – 100% Online

TAMPA, Fla., September 9, 2009 – The University of San Francisco (USF) set the standard for online supply chain training when it introduced its three-course Master Certificate in Supply Chain Management program. Today, USF is again making history with the launch of its eight-week advanced specialized certificate courses in Green Supply Chain Management and Lean Supply Chain Management – 100% online.

While the master certificate program provides an essential big-picture overview of the supply chain, USF’s specialized green and Lean supply chain training helps professionals hone their expertise in two powerful business philosophies that can completely transform a business. Developed by top supply chain, sustainability, environmental and Lean experts, the courses prepare students to lead changes that will have an immediate positive impact on the supply chain – and their company’s bottom line.

“Consumer awareness and pending legislation have driven many organizations to pursue green initiatives,” said USF online faculty member and supply chain expert Neil O’Connell. “Other companies are taking a wait-and-see approach, holding off until a bill passes in Congress or the economy turns around. What they don’t realize is that is that green practices can actually save them money. Early adopters of green supply chain management programs are already reaping the benefits, from greater consumer confidence, to improved processes, to a stronger bottom line. USF’s Green Supply Chain Management training will equip students with valuable tools and strategies that are as good for business as they are for the environment.”

USF’s second advanced specialized course offers another way to combat the weak economy. “As companies struggle to do more with less, many are turning to Lean practices,” noted USF online instructor and Lean supply chain expert Doug Zopfi. “Organizations in every industry are using the Lean methodology to achieve significant cost savings, lead-time reductions and quality improvements. USF’s Lean Supply Chain Management training shows students how they can do the same. We demonstrate the practical applications of Lean principles through case studies and best practices, thereby helping supply chain professionals gain proficiency in critical Lean tools and tactics, and enabling Lean and Six Sigma practitioners to leverage their skills across the supply chain.”

Registration is now open for both of USF’s new supply chain management courses. Lean Supply Chain Management classes will begin November 1, while Green Supply Chain Management classes will commence in early 2010. Upon completion of each eight-week course, students will receive a framed certificate from the University of San Francisco’s School of Business and Management.

For more details on USF’s online green and Lean supply chain training – as well as its comprehensive Master Certificate in Supply Chain Management program – call 800-436-1713 or visit http://www.usanfranonline.com/.

About the University of San Francisco

Acclaimed as one of America’s best universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF’s online programs are offered through its School of Business and Management, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren Undergraduate College of Business.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments — making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com/

University of San Francisco Sets New Standard for Internet Marketing Training Online With Advanced Specialized Courses in Web Analytics & Social Media

2009-09-08T09:37:00.000-04:00

New Certificate Courses Help Professionals Expand Their Expertise in Two of Interactive Marketing’s Most In-Demand Disciplines – 100% Online

TAMPA, Fla., September 4, 2009 – Solidifying its reputation as the leader in online Internet marketing training, the University of San Francisco (USF) has supplemented its core Internet marketing master certificate program with two new advanced specialized certificates. These eight-week online courses offer a more intensive exploration of key digital marketing disciplines, empowering marketers with enhanced skills and broader knowledge of Advanced Web Analytics and Advanced Social Media. Like all of USF’s online offerings, the new web analytics and social media courses are led by practicing, real-world professionals who are among today’s foremost interactive marketing experts.

“The industry places a tremendous emphasis on web analytics because it enables organizations to quantify the success of their Internet marketing efforts. However, it’s important to realize that effective analytics is not just about choosing the right software or vendor,” said USF online faculty member and web analytics expert Joe Laratro. “Recent findings show that companies are shifting their analytics spending from technology, which decreased from 45% to 38%, to internal staff, which increased from 36% to 42%.* This reflects a growing understanding that even the best data is meaningless without properly trained staff to interpret it.”

Laratro noted that USF’s web analytics training is unique in that it goes beyond the platform and teaches students to master the discipline. “Analytics tools will continue to change in the years and decades ahead. That’s why we focus on core principles and techniques that will remain constant over time.”

Social networks have also proven to be an effective way to gauge – and achieve – Internet marketing success, offering unlimited opportunities for feedback, promotion, brand-building and monetization. “If you aren’t listening to and participating in the conversations that take place in the social media realm, you won’t know when your brand is succeeding or faltering – and you won’t be able to react quickly to customer comments or concerns,” explained USF instructor and social media expert Christopher S. Penn. “Our social media training shows students how to leverage this powerful word-of-mouth platform and reap substantial benefits. They’ll learn how to use social networks to promote their product or business, manage and protect their brand, generate revenue, establish authority … the list goes on.”

Registration is now open for both of USF’s new advanced specialized certificate courses. Advanced Social Media classes will begin November 1, while Advanced Web Analytics classes will commence December 1. Upon completion of each eight-week course, students will receive a framed certificate from the University of San Francisco’s School of Business and Management.

For more details on USF’s online social media and web analytics courses – as well as its end-to-end Internet marking training program – call 800-436-1713 or visit http://www.usanfranonline.com/online-certificates/internet-marketing.aspx. Agencies and marketing departments can learn about corporate training solutions, customization options and agency/group discounts at http://www.interactivemarketingtraining.com/.

About the University of San Francisco Acclaimed as one of America’s best universities by U.S. News & World Report, the University of San Francisco has earned a reputation for academic excellence that dates back to its founding in 1855. It is committed to becoming internationally recognized as a premier Jesuit Catholic, urban university with a global perspective. USF’s online programs are offered through its School of Business and Management, which includes the Masagung Graduate School of Management and the McLaren Undergraduate College of Business.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments — making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

* “Online Measurement and Strategy Report 2009”; published by Econsultancy, June 2009.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
University of San Francisco/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.usanfranonline.com/

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Florida Tech Names College of Business in Honor of Nathan M. Bisk

2009-09-01T11:59:00.000-04:00

MELBOURNE, FLA.— Nathan M. Bisk, one of the nation’s leaders in continuing education and online learning, today presented Florida Institute of Technology with a $5 million gift designed to enhance business offerings and strengthen online education. In appreciation, Florida Tech President Anthony J. Catanese announced that the university would rename its College of Business the Nathan M. Bisk College of Business.

“Mr. Bisk’s generosity comes at an extremely opportune time for Florida Tech,” said Catanese. “As we conclude our $50 million Golden Anniversary capital campaign next month, we are looking for new and innovative ways to offer nationally respected business and online learning opportunities. We are deeply thankful for this important gift.”

“I am pleased to support Florida Tech and add my name to its outstanding business program,” Bisk said. “The university’s commitment to a quality educational experience that better prepares students to compete in an ever-changing workplace is very much in keeping with my philosophy of learning. It is my intent to help make the Nathan M. Bisk College of Business one of the nation’s premier business colleges, as well as one of the largest.”

The $5 million gift will be used to support the College of Business in three primary ways: 1) establishment of an endowed Chair of Business to be named the Max, Edith and Robert Bisk Distinguished Chair of Business; 2) marketing and branding of the college; and 3) growth of the online business programs.

“Mr. Bisk is well-known as a visionary in continuing education and online learning,” said T. Dwayne McCay, Florida Tech provost and executive vice president. “His generous support will help provide new resources for our faculty as they continue to deliver outstanding programs.”

While most often associated during its 50-year history with excellence in engineering and science programs, Florida Tech is gaining new attention for its business curriculum. Since the online undergraduate degree and MBA degree programs launched in early 2008, enrollment in these business programs has grown to approximately 4,000 students today.

This online increase is in step with the fact that more and more adults are considering online undergraduate and more specialized business master’s degrees, according to a recent report by the academic research firm, Eduventures. Also, because most adults are full-time employees, online degree programs have become more popular than ever.

“We’re excited that we’ve expanded our business offerings online to meet the changing needs of students,” said College of Business Dean Robert Niebuhr. “With this additional support from Mr. Bisk, we have every expectation that this growth is only the beginning.”

About Bisk Education
Nathan M. Bisk JD, CPA (FL) founded Bisk Education in 1971 to provide continuing education programs for working professionals. Since its inception, Bisk Education has grown to become the nation’s largest exclusive facilitator of online degree and certificate programs from the nation’s leading universities, offering end-to-end, lifelong-learning solutions that allow working adults to reach their personal and professional goals through education. Bisk Education’s University Alliance (UA) division, in which Florida Tech is a member, facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments—making UA the largest exclusive facilitator of e-learning in the nation. For more information, visit http://www.bisk.com/.

PHOTO: Dean Bob Niebuhr, Board of Trustees Chairman Dale Dettmer, Provost T. Dwayne McCay, Mr. Nathan Bisk and President Anthony Catanese at the Aug. 27 dedication of the Nathan M. Bisk College of Business.

Saving Lives Is a Growth Industry

2009-09-01T11:48:00.000-04:00

Healthcare professions such as Registered Nurse (RN) are predicted to expand faster than all others in the coming decades

Press Release
Source: U.S. News University Connection
On Tuesday September 1, 2009, 10:37 am EDT

TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 1 -- Amazing medical advancements are made almost every year and Americans are more health-conscious than they've ever been before. As a result, people are living longer lives. While that is unarguably a good thing, the combination of an aging population and new medical discoveries has created a huge demand for healthcare professionals. Healthcare credentials at any level -- from one-year Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certifications to eight-year Medical Doctor (MD) professional degrees -- can now provide good pay, excellent benefits, and real job security for decades to come.

Registered Nurse and Healthcare Support Careers Expanding Fast

While healthcare careers are growing across the board, two areas are expanding faster than others: nursing and healthcare support. And like many of the quickest-growing occupations, students can often enter these fields with just one or two years of post-secondary education.

Of all the nursing certifications, Registered Nurses are the most in-demand. RNs perform the bulk of day-to-day nursing duties, from evaluating patients to providing front-line care. To become an RN, a student must earn -- at minimum -- an associate's degree in nursing and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Those who plan to elevate their careers into administration or advanced nursing practice often acquire their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, but that is not required. An associate's is enough to become an RN.

Healthcare support careers, such as medical billing and medical assisting, are growing even faster; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 48% increase in healthcare support jobs through 2016. The basic certification for medical billing and coding can be earned in one year, but a two-year associate's program prepares one to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), which usually leads to better jobs. Medical assistants typically earn an Associate of Science (AS) in Medical Assisting.

Healthcare Education Promises a Great Return on Investment

The U.S. is using strong healthcare job growth as a cornerstone of its recovery from the current economic recession. Degree and certificate programs in fields like nursing, medical billing and medical assisting allow students to enter the most rapidly expanding careers of the next decade. Every day, more students are discovering good pay, excellent benefits, and real job security in the healthcare profession -- where saving lives is a growth industry!

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/healthcare-job-growth.aspx

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Healthcare, Education and Clean Energy Cited as In-Demand Jobs of Tomorrow

2009-08-25T10:46:00.000-04:00

Knowing which careers are going to expand fastest over the next few decades helps students decide what credentials to pursue today

TAMPA, Fla., August 25, 2009 – In the late 1980s, everyone wanted to study business management. Colleges and universities churned out millions of graduates who had watched Michael Douglas in Wall Street and believed they were going to be the next Gordon Gekko. Imagine their surprise when, in the early 1990s, corporate hiring trends shifted to heavily favor technology jobs! Certainly some of these graduates did just fine in the business world, but how many would have been happier and more successful with a computer degree?

While technology jobs have remained relevant, and almost certainly will continue to do so for the foreseeable future, the trend is changing again. In their report entitled Preparing the Workers of Today for the Jobs of Tomorrow, the President’s Council of Economic Advisors notes that three fields are likely to grow faster than any other: healthcare, education and clean energy.
People are living longer lives as amazing medical advancements are made almost every year. This combination of an aging population and new discoveries has created a huge demand for healthcare professionals. Healthcare credentials at any level – from one-year Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certifications to eight-year Medical Doctor (MD) professional degrees – can provide you with job security and good pay for decades to come.

The President recently challenged all Americans to pursue additional education. Better schools and more teachers are on the agenda of almost every state in the country, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that universities will expand their teaching faculty by almost 30% through 2016. Teaching, especially at the elementary and postsecondary levels, can promise plenty of job opportunities if you earn an education degree.

In the summer of 2008, gas prices topped $4 a gallon all over the country. More and more often, we are forced to purchase the oil we need from nations that are hostile to our interests. And no matter where you go today, people are concerned about climate change. Clean energy sources offer real solutions to these problems, so both corporations and governments are investing billions of dollars into developing biofuels, solar power and other forms of alternative energy. A degree or certificate in environmental engineering or environmental science can help you join the rapidly expanding “green” job market.

Education Is Great – The Right Education Is Even Better

The millions of jobs that were lost during the recent economic crisis have made many Americans realize that they don’t just need an education – they need the right education. Those with their sights set on success should take advantage of knowing what the in-demand jobs of tomorrow will be; it is degree and certificate programs in fields like nursing, teaching and environmental engineering that will allow students to enter the fastest-growing careers of the next decade.

Contact:
Matthew Speer, Director, Sales and Marketing
U.S. News University Connection
866-442-6587
Source: http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/jobs-future.aspx

Top 10 Reasons Traveling Nurses Choose to Earn Their Bachelor’s Degree Online

2009-08-13T14:44:00.000-04:00

Jacksonville University’s Online RN to BSN Program Provides Flexibility for Nurses

TAMPA, Fla., August 13, 2009 – U.S. Labor Department analysts predict that by 2012 the country will need 1 million nurses to care for the more than 60 million aging baby boomers population. By 2016, it is estimated that 587,000 new nursing jobs will be created nationwide – the largest number of new jobs created in any industry.

Institutions of higher learning, such as Jacksonville University (JU), are developing nursing degree programs to not only meet the needs of the healthcare industry but also the needs of those seeking the degrees. JU’s online RN to BSN program is run in conjunction with the University Alliance (UA), the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

The challenge for registered nurses who are working but want to earn their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree is how to schedule courses around their work schedules and other commitments. This is particularly true for traveling nurses, who typically work 13-week shifts then move on to another assignment, often in another locale.

Jacksonville University’s administrators understand that traveling nurses do not want to put their education and careers on hold. JU’s online BSN program is designed to overcome scheduling obstacles, and its administrators cite the following reasons why traveling nurses are choosing online programs like theirs:

1. A bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN) degree makes a traveling nurse more marketable. Additional fields open up, including medical-surgical, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry and many others.

2. Traveling nurses usually earn a higher hourly rate and can earn even more with a BSN. Pay scales range from $21 to $42 per hour, plus benefits.

3. An online program allows nurses to study while they travel. E-learning systems such as JU’s provide the same information, material and degree as offered in a traditional classroom setting. In fact, a recent Department of Education study showed that, for adults, online learning is more effective than face-to-face learning, on several measures.

4. Online BSN programs are as flexible as the lifestyles of its students. “I am able to continue to work full time and go to school part time,” said Candice Jewett of Massachusetts. “I have been able to work full time and maintain a 4.0 in my online classes.”

5. An online BSN program allows the flexibility to take sessions off. There are six 8-week sessions in a year, so students can tailor the program to match their own schedules. Students can opt to attend part time and take off a session or two if needed

6. Students can complete their BSN at their own pace. Most students complete the online BSN course in about two years.

7. Practice projects (clinicals) can be completed wherever there is a BSN-trained nurse. No travel is required to complete practice projects. At JU, two courses require projects, which are self-directed and allow students to work one-on-one with mentors.

8. Money is available to pay for nursing school. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s “Scholarships and Financial Aid Resources for Nursing Students” is a good place to start. Also, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers the Nursing Education Loan Repayment Program. Individual states also may offer grants and loans. JU offers a helpful resource on how to pay for nursing school.

9. Many traveling nurse agencies offer tuition benefits. American Mobile Healthcare, NursesRx, Medical Express, RN Demand, Platinum Select, Nurse Choice and Preferred Healthcare Staffing have partnered with the University Alliance. A 10 percent tuition discount from JU and UA is available to traveling nurses who work for these agencies.

10. An Internet connection is all that’s needed to get started. “The JU website is easy to access at any computer – whether I’m at home, at a friend’s house or at the hospital,” said Susan Cardona of Massachusetts.

For more information about JU’s online RN to BSN program, visit www.jacksonvilleu.com.

About Jacksonville University
Founded more than 70 years ago in Jacksonville, Florida, Jacksonville University has more than 18,000 alumni. With students from 44 states and 55 foreign countries, the university offers seven bachelor’s degrees in more than 30 areas. JU offers one of the largest online RN to BSN degree programs in the country and is recognized as one of the nation’s foremost teaching institutions. The School of Nursing is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Jacksonville University was named one of “America’s Best Colleges” for the fifth consecutive year in 2009 by U.S. News & World Report.

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Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Jacksonville University Online/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.jacksonvilleu.com

Florida Tech University Online Honors Military Education Survival Kit Winner, Regina Small

2009-07-29T10:03:00.000-04:00

U.S. Army veteran receives new computer technology and military tuition aid to pursue an online graduate degree and fulfill professional dreams

TAMPA, Fla., July 27, 2009 — When Regina Small of Lake County, Fla., entered a sweepstakes for online education support, she never expected to win. Upon discovering that she was the recipient of the June 30, 2009 webcast drawing, held by Florida Tech and University Alliance Online for military service members, she was ecstatic. The prize package included everything needed to jumpstart an online education, including a laptop, plus software and accessories. More importantly, the new tools helped pave the way for Small to pursue her dream of earning an MBA in Management through Florida Tech University Online.

Small learned about Florida Tech’s master’s degree online programs through the new 2009 University Alliance catalog, which led to her enrollment and sweepstakes entry.

"I was looking for an accredited university to attend and the catalog’s timing was perfect; the caption 'World-Class Training from America's Leading Universities' really caught my eye and the cover story, 'Rise Above the Recession with Top Job Skills that Make You Irreplaceable,' sparked my immediate phone call to Florida Tech, which was listed as one of the top schools to attend by U.S. News and World Report," said Small.

“We congratulate Regina Small, the winner of our military education sweepstakes, and honor all of the countless men and women who serve our country and desire to pursue education as well,” says Shawn Daugherty, University Alliance senior brand manager for Florida Tech’s online programs. “We truly appreciate Regina’s service to our great nation and commend her continuing-education efforts.”

“Some years ago, after proudly serving in the U.S. Army Military Police Corps, I decided to raise my family and am now a clerk at the Lake County Clerk of Circuit Court,” Small says. “Despite having a bachelor’s degree and receiving honors for military and community service, I never want to stop bettering myself and serving others. A master’s degree will position me for career advancement, and open doors to teaching at a local community college or university —another dream I have.”

“My brand-new laptop computer and portable accessories will help me complete my online graduate degree coursework efficiently and download what I need, when I need it, so I can review it at work or while I’m on the go,” Small says. A recipient of the prestigious Dr. Mary E. Walker award for civilian service rendered on and off-post, Small remains busy, and is regularly committed to supporting families and soldiers through various military programs, making the ease of online MBA coursework with Florida Tech a key to her success.

Florida Tech’s online undergraduate degree and online graduate degree programs provide a convenient, flexible education so military servicemembers can study anywhere, anytime. Florida Tech offers military tuition discounts to active-duty servicemembers, Reserves, Guards and Veterans like Small.

To learn more about Florida Tech’s online education programs, visit http://www.FloridaTechOnline.com.

About Florida Tech
Florida Tech, a University Alliance Partner, is world-renowned for its distinguished faculty, comprehensive curriculum and unyielding innovation. Its more than 50,000 alumni include several astronauts, many CEOs of major corporations, Senior Executive Service (SES) members and nearly two dozen generals, including three four-star generals, four three-star generals, nine two-star major generals and three one-star brigadier generals. Florida Tech’s main campus is located in Melbourne, Florida.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments — making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

# # #

U.S. News University Connection Launches U.S. News University Directory Web Portal

2009-07-29T09:49:00.000-04:00

TAMPA, FL, July 27, 2009 – U.S. News University Connection is pleased to announce the launch of U.S. News University Directory, a concierge service education portal that directly and immediately connects students with traditional universities and accredited online colleges

offering certificate programs, associate’s programs, bachelor’s programs, master’s programs and doctorate programs.

Complementing the U.S. News rankings, the long-preferred tool for the assessment of excellence in higher education, the University Directory helps potential college-bound students and working adults further invest in their future by serving as an online marketplace where they can directly interact with more than 2000 colleges and universities.

The new portal provides consumers with a full range of education options, including information about both on-campus and online degree programs. It also provides educational institutions with an opportunity to showcase their degree and certificate programs in a co-branded forum jointly created by U.S. News Media Group, America’s Authority on Education®, and Bisk Education, the country’s leading facilitator of online degree and certificate programs from some of America’s leading universities.

The University Directory organizes schools in multiple ways, including an alphabetical directory of ranked and unranked schools in various categories. “Not everyone is looking for a ranked school,” said Brian Kelly, Editor of U.S. News. “While the University Directory has ranking information, it also provides a resource for many different kinds of students.”

The site also includes interactive features and expanded sorting abilities, and presents content about degree and certificate programs from U.S. News & World Report’s vast collection of the News You Can Use® service journalism that has justifiably made it the leading source of news and information about educational opportunities in the United States. It will also feature informative content focused on providing information to consumers who are actively looking for educational opportunities.

“U.S. News & World Report is the leading resource – both in print and online – for students looking at college as well as adults searching for continuing education opportunities, and we wanted to create a website focused on these consumers and institutions,” said Bill Holiber, president of U.S. News Media Group. “With Bisk Education, we found a company focused on online education with state-of-the-art technology and capabilities to create a dynamic education-focused portal. Their proven success in working with colleges and universities to bring their schools’ online degree and certificate programs to students made for a natural collaboration.”

As part of the partnership, all advertising from colleges and universities at USNews.com and the University Directory will be sold by Bisk under the U.S. News brand. “Higher education institutions need a credible and trustworthy marketplace in which they can showcase educational opportunities and connect with potential students that are suited to their programs,” said Nathan Bisk, Founder and Chairman of Bisk Education. “For the past 15 years, we have been at the forefront of creating and executing online and distance-learning marketing and recruitment campaigns for some of the nation’s leading universities. We know how to market in the digital age and we understand the need to protect the integrity of each institution’s brand while helping them connect with qualified students. The new U.S. News Directory will allow educational institutions the opportunity to meet the ever increasing demand for university based education and workforce retraining that is in such demand in today’s economy.“

For more information on the U.S. News University Directory, visit www.USNewsUniversityDirectory.com.

About the U.S. News Media Group

The U.S. News Media Group is a multi-platform digital publisher of news and analysis, which includes the monthly U.S. News & World Report magazine, the digital-only U.S. News Weekly magazine, www.usnews.com, and www.rankingsandreviews.com. Focusing on Health, Money & Business, Education, and Public Service/Opinion, the U.S. News Media Group has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers. The U.S. News Media Group’s signature franchises include its News You Can Use® brand of journalism and its “America’s Best” series of consumer guides that include rankings of colleges, graduate schools, hospitals, health plans, and more.

About Bisk Education, Inc.

Bisk Education helps educational institutions market online degree and certificate programs. Bisk’s University Alliance (UA) division facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as professional certificate programs from some of the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Programs available from accredited University Alliance partners include project management certificates from Villanova University, negotiation certificates from the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, business management certificates from Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business, Internet marketing certificates from the University of San Francisco, online MBA programs from the Florida Institute of Technology, online master’s degrees in teaching from The University of Scranton, online Master of Arts in Education degrees from Dominican University and online RN to BSN degrees from Jacksonville University.

U.S. News University Connection
9417 Princess Palm Avenue
Tampa, FL 33647
866-442-6587
Press@USNewsUniversityConnection.com

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Bisk Education’s University Alliance Online Learning Programs Substantiate U.S. Department of Education Findings

2009-07-14T10:46:00.000-04:00

Analysis reveals online learning at the post-secondary level is more effective than conventional face-to-face instruction

TAMPA, Fla., July 6, 2009 – Online learning in the higher education sector reached another milestone on June 26, when the U.S. Department of Education released its analysis of controlled studies comparing online and face-to-face instruction.

The meta-analysis of 51 studies – 44 of which were drawn from research with post-secondary learners – showed that, on average, students who took all or part of their classes online had superior learning outcomes and performed better than those taking the same course through traditional face-to-face instruction.

“These recent findings echo the positive feedback we continually receive from students participating in our online degree programs and online certificate programs,” said Adrian Marrullier, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of University Alliance, a worldwide leader in professional development programs providing unprecedented access to the nation’s top universities.

“We’re proud of our graduate’s success stories and career achievements regarding their online learning experiences, all of which corroborate the study’s conclusions,” said Marrullier.

The Department of Education’s report cited online learning as one of the fastest growing trends in educational uses of technology, attributing its popularity to its ability to provide “flexible access to content and instruction at any time, from any place.”

That comes as no surprise to Marrullier, who noted, “It has been University Alliance’s long-standing mission to deliver ‘anytime training’ and ‘anywhere knowledge’ to adult learners across the country and around the globe. We’re committed to empowering professionals to attain a quality education from a prestigious university, no matter what their schedule or where they live.”

The literature research is intended to provide policy-makers, administrators and educators with research-based guidance on how to implement online learning for K–12 education. However, the Department of Education’s findings illustrated the majority of studies focused on online learning in career technical education, medical and higher education, plus corporate and military training.

The study was conducted by the Center for Technology and Learning, SRI International under contract to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Policy and Program Studies Service, which commissioned the study.

The full report can be found at http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/opepd/ppss/reports.html#edtech.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments — making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. University Alliance partners include Villanova University, the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business, Thunderbird School of Global Management, the University of San Francisco, Florida Institute of Technology, The University of Scranton, Dominican University and Jacksonville University.

Contact Information
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Bisk Education/University Alliance Online

New Villanova University Online Course Enables Black Belts to Attain Lean Master Black Belt Certification

2009-07-14T10:28:00.000-04:00

Course Is Part of Advanced Master Certificate Program That Helps Black Belts Develop Enterprise-Wide Mastery of Lean Six Sigma Practices

TAMPA, Fla., July 06, 2009 – Villanova University, the leader in Lean Six Sigma education, is enhancing its professional education offerings with the world’s only 100% online Advanced Master Certificate in Lean Six Sigma. In addition to enabling those with Black Belt training to achieve prestigious Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification, this program examines business processes from a holistic perspective, empowering participants to implement Six Sigma strategies that will create a positive impact across their entire enterprise.

The new program is essential for all individuals with Black Belt training who are looking to cement their leadership and Lean Six Sigma expertise, as well as those needing to meet re-certification requirements for Villanova’s Green Belt, Lean or Lean Black Belt certifications. Lean Master Black Belt certification can provide a significant boost to a Black Belt’s career. According to iSixSigma Global Salary Survey, the average yearly salary of U.S. Master Black Belts is $134,779 – approximately $30,000 more than those with Black Belt certification alone. The designation also carries considerable industry recognition and prestige.

Dan Munson, Director of Six Sigma Education for Villanova, notes, “This is the program that helps Black Belts distinguish themselves and reach the pinnacle of their profession. People completing these courses will be using their superior knowledge to mentor and manage other Black Belts. We give them the education they need to develop the robust leadership skills their organizations expect of them.”

Program participants need to complete the new Lean Master Black Belt course and two Villanova courses emphasizing leadership, management and technical knowledge to become certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belts and gain their Advanced Master Certificate in Lean Six Sigma. The new Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt course lasts 12 weeks and builds upon abilities the students have already cultivated as Black Belts. As with all of Villanova’s certificate programs, professionals working toward their Advanced Master Certificate in Lean Six Sigma can complete their coursework anywhere, anytime, through the convenience of online learning tools.

About Villanova University
Founded in 1842, Villanova University is the worldwide leader in professional education online. A traditional, accredited university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, it has more than 94,000 alumni, NCAA Division I athletic teams, unparalleled academic and technical support, and an outstanding faculty – over 90% of whom hold the highest degrees in their field. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Villanova #1 University in the North (Master’s Division) for more than a decade.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments — making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country. University Alliance partners include Villanova University, the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, Tulane University’s Freeman School of Business, Thunderbird School of Global Management, the University of San Francisco, the University of South Florida, Florida Institute of Technology, The University of Scranton, Dominican University and Jacksonville University.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
Villanova University/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.villanovau.com/

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The University of Scranton Awards Master’s Degrees to 379 Online Graduates

2009-06-29T10:30:00.000-04:00

Students Praise Program Quality and Convenience on Their First Trip to Campus

TAMPA, Fla., June 29, 2009 – Among The University of Scranton students who gathered for the May 30 spring commencement ceremony were hundreds who visited the Pennsylvania campus for the first time.

“The campus is beautiful and although I took all of my classes online, I still felt a part of the campus life,” said Ayanna Thorne Gass, who received a Master of Science in Educational Administration. “Everyone, from the other students I met to the professors, was warm and welcoming. I felt like a long-lost relative and not a stranger.”

As a single mother working both full- and part-time jobs, Gass said the convenience of online education made earning a master’s degree possible. Her experience at The University of Scranton has given her the confidence and desire to earn another advanced degree – a doctorate, which she plans to begin working on soon.

Teresa Marie Tyson and several family members made a special flight to attend the ceremony, where Tyson was awarded her Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction. “It was the proudest moment of my life,” said Tyson, who emphasized the academic excellence for which The University of Scranton is known.

Other students also lauded the quality and convenience of online education, describing how the Internet-based classes fit their busy lifestyles. “When I first enrolled in the online program, I had an hour commute to work and the closest college was another hour on top of that,” said Bobbie Bie, who earned a Master of Science in Educational Administration. “The flexibility and convenience of the online program really appealed to me. It allowed more time to spend with my family since I was avoiding the commute.” Bie said her master’s degree will help her become a department head or curriculum coordinator, plus she can now teach courses at her local community college.

For Marguerite Musgnug, a 10-year teaching veteran, the online master’s program provided stability and assurance that life’s interruptions would not derail her educational goals.

“My husband and I moved around a lot the first few years we were married, and each time, I was in the middle of a master’s degree program,” she explained. “I wanted the online format in case we moved again, since it would allow me to finish, no matter where I was living.”

Whether students choose to focus on Curriculum and Instruction or Educational Administration, all online participants benefit from an interactive learning experience that features streaming video lectures, online message boards, live chat rooms, virtual office hours and more.

Students Recognized for Outstanding Performance
Four of The University of Scranton’s online graduates were honored for superior academic achievement, which included maintaining a 4.0 grade point average:

Laura Anne Bell, Vienna, VA – MS in Educational Administration
Lori Leigh Wilt, Waynesboro, VA – MS in Educational Administration
Jaime Leann Ottinger, Vail, AZ – MS in Curriculum and Instruction
Jennifer Ann Counselman, Charlotte, NC – MS in Curriculum and Instruction

For a complete list of graduates, visit
http://matrix.scranton.edu/news/images/summer2009/2009_CGCE_Commencement.pdf.

The University of Scranton is currently accepting applications for the next online session. For more information about earning a master’s of science degree in education, call 800-605-5346 or visit http://www.uscranton.com/.

About The University of Scranton
Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, The University of Scranton was founded in 1888 and has been educating students in the Jesuit tradition since 1942. It is consistently ranked among the top 10 Master’s Universities in the North by U.S. News &World Report. The University of Scranton is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) as well as the Commission of Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The College of Graduate and Continuing Education is accredited by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

About University Alliance Online
The University Alliance (UA) facilitates the promotion and online delivery of associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as professional certificate programs from the nation’s leading traditional universities and institutions. Powered by UA’s technology and support services, our university partners have surpassed 300,000 online enrollments —making UA the largest facilitator of e-learning in the country.

Contact:
Sandy Levine, VP of Marketing Services
The University of Scranton/University Alliance Partner
813-621-6200
http://www.uscranton.com/

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