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

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

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

 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

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

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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