PTC offers new limited scope X-ray operator certificate program

PTC is offering its newest program, the Limited Scope X-Ray Operator Certificate, to start this fall semester, Aug. 26. The 16-credit program is designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary for performing radiographic exams at physicians’ offices, chiropractic offices, urgent care facilities, clinics, and in hospitals.

“Limited scope X-ray technicians may work independently or act as support to certified radiologic technicians, who can focus on more complex procedures,” says Krista Hoekstra, PTC’s Director of Nursing and Health Science programs. “LXMO [Limited Scope X-ray Machine Operator] certification allows trained individuals to perform radiologic exams based on the Limited Scope ARRT [American Registry of Radiologic Technologists] certification exam. Minnesota uses this exam to ensure safety and provide licensing to trained individuals,” Hoekstra explains.

Upon completion of the program, individuals are eligible to take the Limited Scope ARRT exam to earn their LXMO certification. LXMO certification means an individual has acquired the necessary training, has taken and passed the limited scope ARRT exam, and has received approval from the state. Courses in limited scope X-ray machine operation include English, biology, and radiology technology and diagnostic imaging. All core, technical courses are delivered in an online format and will be offered beginning this fall semester. Required coursework outside the program is typically offered each semester; students technically may start the program June 3, during the summer term, with courses in English and biology.

“Limited scope X-ray machine operators prepare patients for exams, explain procedures, give clear instructions during the exam, and practice standards that ensure the highest level of radiation protection and safe operation of the X-ray machine,” Hoekstra says. “Also, they must have excellent communication skills to explain radiographic procedures, and they must be mentally prepared to work with critically ill patients, as well as trustworthy for maintaining patient privacy, and detail-oriented for record-keeping,” Hoekstra adds.

The new program is made possible, in part, through the Healthcare Professions Pathways grant that was awarded to PTC and nine other institutions in Sept. 2011. The grant, known as the “H2P grant,” targets healthcare professions since the healthcare industry is experiencing a critical shortage of trained workers. PTC already offers programs in long-term care, nursing, medical assisting, general health science, and certificates in phlebotomy and electrocardiography (ECG/EKG).

Trending Online Degrees

It's no secret; education is the key to success. Employers give preference to job applicants and prospective promotion candidates that possess degrees and/or specialized training such as certificates, diplomas or continuing education credits. For most working adults, attending college full time is not an option. They must continue to work while trying simultaneously to complete an educational program. Traditional classroom learning requires students to travel to the campus and adhere to a strict schedule; both of which often become a hindrance. Many individuals are unable to conform to the requirements and instead are forced to delay their education. Online educational programs offer flexible schedules; permitting students to tailor their programs to meet their individualized time constraints. Earning a degree through online programs allows busy working individuals to continue working in their current profession or position while completing an educational program. Because of the flexibility of the programs, online education is becoming increasingly more prevalent as working adults strive to reach their education and career goals.

The decision by most working individuals to pursue a degree program is for the purpose of advancing or changing their careers or even just to make themselves more valuable to their current employer. The state of the economy in recent years has resulted in job uncertainty for some and loss for many others. The most effective solution has been to look for a job opening or attain training in a field which is hiring. And many of the fields which are hiring require specialized skills and knowledge obtained through certificate, diploma or degree programs. The most popular online degree programs are in the fields and professions which are experiencing the most job growth or offer the most job security. These fields include major areas of study within business, engineering, healthcare and education. Here are ten online degrees that are growing in popularity:


1. Graphic Design
Graphic designers convey messages through various forms of visual communication. This is accomplished utilizing a variety of techniques, specialized software programs and tools, skills and layouts in print mediums or electronic media devices. Graphic design has become an increasingly relevant skill in the job market. Many entities rely on the skills and knowledge of an individual trained in graphic design to create promotional displays, packaging, distinctive logos, marketing brochures, websites and various publications including newspapers, magazines and even reports. Due to the extensive array of industries in which graphic design skills are relevant, individuals trained in the field will have the opportunity to apply their education in nearly any employment setting and will increase their value in the workplace.

Online graphic design degrees are offered at a substantial number of highly regarded educational institutions. Individuals have the opportunity to pursue a range of degree options with varying specializations. Associate and bachelor degree programs are regularly offered as well as master degree programs. Diploma and certificate programs are offered online to individuals interested in pursuing continuing education courses augmenting their skills, knowledge and abilities. Students acquire skills in internet applications, e-commerce design applications multimedia, design development, web development and visual communication design architecture.


2. Accounting
All entities are in need of employees trained in accounting to ensure its finances are properly handled. Private businesses and governmental entities must keep accurate records, ensure employees are paid and all applicable taxes are filed and paid properly and timely, and that the business is in compliance with all fiscal laws and regulations. Accounting professionals perform a range of essential functions within a business or organization. Budget analysis, financial planning, analysis of financial documents and the preparation of financial documents and statements are just a few of the tasks performed by accounting professionals. Qualified individuals educated in the accounting field are highly sought by every organization. Regardless of the position for which an employee is hired, an education in accounting will ensure job security and likely job advancement.

Programs offered online in accounting include associate and bachelor degree programs, certificate programs, continuing education programs and master degree programs. Accounting degree programs offered through online courses provide comprehensive curriculum which equips graduates with the extensive knowledge and skills required to successfully perform the functions of any job. Students complete coursework in federal and state tax laws and regulations, investments, financial planning, bookkeeping, payroll and many fundamental business subjects. Some of the programs adhere to the regulations necessary to permit graduates to sit for the Certified Public Accountant Examination. The opportunities provided by obtaining a degree in accounting are making this program a popular choice of many students.


3. Information Systems Management
Information Systems managers are responsible for the implementation and administration of computer technology. It is the responsibility of information systems managers to determine the technological needs of the organization and implement the most effective tools for the purposes of serving those needs. Additionally, information system managers are responsible for the maintenance and security of all computer technology and internet operations. Installations, upgrades and the creation of job relevant internet sites are also part of the functions attributable to the information systems manager. These individuals must oversee the work of other IT professionals and ensure their quality of work.

The online degree programs offered in information Systems and management have become popular due to the relevance of the education. Information systems are used in every field, every business, in governments, non profit organizations and home businesses. Technology has become essential in our current global society. Management skills are also in high demand. Employing capable and skilled managerial professionals ensures the success of any business. A management position usually requires the completion of a bachelor degree program. Most institutions offer programs in business, management and information technology.


4. Marketing
The competition for services and products is immense. Not only must businesses and contractors compete with comparable local businesses, but due to the globalization of the business world credited to the advent of the internet, they often compete with businesses across the state, nation and sometimes even the globe. Marketing professionals are necessary to help businesses and professionals attract customers and clients. Individuals with a degree in marketing are able to create effective marketing brochures, attractive displays and to direct them at target audiences based on statistics and research. Marketing professionals utilize a range of mediums to create interest in their products and services; from traditional print to more contemporary multimedia devices.

Marketing degrees offered online are generally at the bachelor and master degree level. Some online institutions offer associate degree programs and even doctorate programs in the marketing field. The curriculum includes courses in advertising, marketing, ecommerce, research, statistics and a multitude of business areas. Students learn product management, pricing, distribution, sales techniques and promotional skills. Fundamental areas of business and social sciences are also included in the degree programs. Marketing degrees include a range of areas of specialization; permitting students to develop an area of expertise in the field or to just tailor their education to meet their specific career goals and needs.


5. Web Design and Development
Web sites are as common as business cards. The majority of businesses have opted to create a web site advertising their products and/or services. It is a quick and easy way to attract new customers and to provide information about what the business has to offer. Businesses can offer visual examples of their completed work, references, biographical information about the business and its employees and special discounts and offers to entice customers. In order to create an effective, user friendly web design, a trained professional is required who is knowledgeable in the many facets of web design and development. Web design and development professionals are able to assess the needs of the business and determine what it wants to accomplish and what needs to be included on the website and how to accomplish it.

Web design degrees are offered at a substantial number of accredited institutions through online learning programs. Students can pursue an associate, bachelor or master degree in the program. Certificate programs and continuing education programs are also offered at many institutions. The curriculum for the degree programs includes coursework and studies in social sciences, life sciences, the humanities and communications. Students learn the creative aspect of web design also; completing course in design, marketing, visual communications and a variety of major specific courses. Students are also trained in utilizing popular software programs and tools to create interactive and unique web sites for their clients and employers.


6. Medical Assistant
The medical assistant field is an entry level position in the health care industry. Professionals employed as medical assistants provide both administrative and clinical assistance to their employers. Medical assistants are essential to the success of every health care agency. They take patient histories, prepare patients for examinations and routine laboratory procedures, perform simple procedures and manage and maintain patient records. The fundamental functions assigned to medical assistants allow physicians to concentrate their efforts on the more advanced skills and tasks without being delayed or set back by having to perform all of these essential tasks themselves.

Online medical assisting programs are offered at a number of online career schools and traditional online institutions. Students have the option of pursuing diploma and certificate programs in medical assisting which can be completed in a very short time frame; permitting graduates to begin working relatively quickly. The accredited online programs enable students to sit for the certification exams, lending increased status to their educational accomplishment. The curriculum provides training in all relevant clinical and administrative areas including venipuncture, administering injections, adhering to privacy laws and regulations as well as sanitary and infection control guidelines. The majority of the programs include the externship requirement to ensure students receive the hands on training necessary prior to beginning their career in the field.


7. Health Care Administration
The health care field is consistently in need of qualified and skilled professionals. Billing, insurance coding, office assistants and managers are all required in order to ensure the success of each health care agency. The intensified scrutiny by insurance companies has resulted in an increased need for knowledgeable individuals who know the proper billing codes as required by the companies and appropriate methods of submitting the bills. An understanding of the preferred procedures are beneficial to patients and the medical offices treating them, with shorter delays in claims processing. Managing patient files and records, setting appointments and maintaining order in the office and examination rooms are vital to the success of any health care facility.

Degree programs in the health care administration field are offered in the majority of institutions offering online degree programs. The curriculum provides training in all the essential areas of the field. Diplomas and certificate programs permit students to complete short term programs which get them started in the industry. Associate degrees and bachelor degrees in the field provide advanced training and academic coursework to ensure students are equipped with the skills necessary to become leaders in their positions. Some schools offer online master degree programs for students interested in pursuing management positions in larger facilities. The career opportunities are limitless and the job opportunities are expected to continue to increase substantially over the next decade and will likely continue far into the future.


8. Engineering
The engineering fields are becoming increasingly more popular. Individuals attaining degrees in engineering have the opportunity to select from a substantial number of specialty areas including civil, electrical, industrial, chemical and a general construction field. Engineers solve technical problems, create effective and functional designs and devices and adhere to safe environmental and economic practices which benefit the employers for whom they work and the communities where their work is utilized. Engineers are generally high paid professionals with substantial opportunities for advancement with experience and additional education.

Online engineering degrees are offered at many highly regarded institutions. Students interested in pursuing engineering degrees can enroll in associate, bachelor or master level programs. Some institutions offer online continuing education programs and course, such as executive graduate certificates, to augment and update the individuals existing knowledge. Degree programs can be completed in as little as 12 months depending on the schedule developed by the student and the pace at which they complete their coursework. Many renowned traditional institutions offer online degree programs in the engineering field to respond to the increasing need and popularity in and of the field.


9. Paralegal
Paralegals provide an invaluable service to the public, companies and to the lawyers and law firms employing them. Paralegals compose legal documents, research laws and legal statutes, interview witnesses and clients and provide an extensive array of other essential services. Individuals seeking a career in a field with substantial employment opportunities and advancement will find the paralegal field offers both. Paralegals are employed by government entities, independent consulting firms, private law firms and are even often independently employed. There are practically no geographical limitations for individuals employed in the profession, permitting paralegals to find employment in nearly any area they may prefer.

The online paralegal degree programs offer the opportunity to begin a career in this challenging and lucrative field or to advance an existing career as a paralegal. Online programs offered in the field include certificate programs, associate and bachelor degree programs, master degree programs and even post graduate certificate and continuing education programs. Paralegals often earn salaries based on the level of higher education completed and earn promotions and salary increases in correlation to the advancement of their experience and education levels.


10. Electronic and Computer Technology (Engineering)
The prevalence of computer technology, electronics and multimedia devices in the workplace has created a substantial demand for qualified and trained individuals in the field. Individuals are needed who are capable of troubleshooting and problem solving issues related to electronics and computer technology are essential in any organization which relies on both within their business. Most businesses utilize these devices for every type of communication, from marketing and advertising to offering services through the internet, record keeping and to perform the tasks essential to the functioning of their business. Without electronic and computer technology specialist on hand to resolve issues, a business could be forced to delay work or may even lose valuable information.

Degrees in electronic and computer technology range from the associate to master levels. Diploma and certificate programs are offered. Post graduate programs are available and some institutions even offer doctorate programs in the major. The online programs provide a comprehensive and challenging curriculum which prepares graduates for the complex responsibilities associated with this profession. Students are able to choose programs with areas of specialization tailored to meet their particular needs and interests. Areas of interest may include software engineering, software engineer management, systems engineering, property management, organizational management engineering studies. The range of academic and career related possibilities are extensive and the online programs offered encompass most of them.

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Student Senate officers attend annual student association summit at Capitol

PTC Student Senate officers April Sheldon (Treasurer), Tim Soderbeck (Parliamentarian), and Kaylynn Anderson (Voting Senator - Math Club), with Student Senate Staff Advisor Amanda Spencer, are representing PTC in the nation’s Capitol, Mar. 16 through Mar. 19 at the Minnesota State College Student Association’s third annual summit. The trip provides students with the opportunity to engage in higher education advocacy at the federal level through meetings with lawmakers and policy experts.

“So far, the trip is well worth it,” says Amanda Spencer via text message, in between meetings. “We are learning a lot, and the sightseeing is educational, too!” Spencer adds.

In addition to advocacy meetings, MSCSA is providing students with the training they will need to engage in effective and successful meetings with their elected officials; also, the trip’s agenda has built in limited time for sightseeing and exploring D.C.



PHOTO
(L to R) April Sheldon, Tim Soderbeck, Amanda Spencer, and Kaylynn Anderson pause for a photo near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.

Selecting The Best Online Colleges To Receive The Most Valued Degrees Online

Online education is extremely flexible and allows working adults to acquire knowledge and academic experience required for professional growth. Thousands of online colleges invite ambitious adult professionals to earn their college degrees online. Higher education and degrees earned from accredited online colleges can give your career curve an extra edge. One must consider all the pros and cons of college degrees online before opting for one. To get the maximum benefit you must choose the online colleges providing online education programs best suited for attaining your career goal.

To find out the best online colleges for your desired degree you must evaluate the online colleges on the basis of certain points:

• You must search for the online colleges that offer the courses most suitable for you. Prestigious universities and colleges offer a huge variety of online courses and invite the students to earn college degrees online.

• Accreditation of the online university or college is a major issue. There are several online colleges offering thousands of attractive online courses. Before you finalize your decision picking a college for earning your degree online, you must confirm that your college has the proper regional or state accreditation. The degree obtained from the online colleges that are accredited to the popular universities will get you better career opportunities. You can visit the official website of the U.S. Department of Education for the list of accredited online colleges. There are some reliable websites as well who provide the names and detailed info of the approved online universities and colleges.

• Determine the learning style and technical requirements of the online college and check how far you can fulfill these. Most of the online colleges and their courses require internet access and specific software for audio/video streaming and chat room facilities.Many online colleges offer courses which require a few classroom sessions as well along with the online ones. For more flexibility you should look for the online institutes offering entire courses online. By choosing the right college working adults can easily earn their desired college degrees online.

• Look for online colleges that have highly qualified professors for their online courses. Ask your college whether the students can easily reach the professors through e-mail, phone, text, instant message, Skype or the like.

• Compare the tuition fees and costs of the online colleges and also find out about the financial aid and grants available for the particular course or school.

• To earn the best college degrees online you should first research the tuition and registration policies of as many reputable online colleges as you can. If you have to discontinue your online course or want to join an on campus program, check whether the college will return some percentage of your tuition fees and will transfer your online credits as well.

• While choosing the right online college for gaining your degree online, you must confirm the credibility of your online education and credits.

With several if not all of these tips in mind, you should be able to narrow down your vast choice of online colleges for earning a degree online to just a few in a matter of minutes. From then on it's really just your personal preference combined with school credibility, courses offered that interest you and your major, and schedule. Good luck in securing your future by earning a degree online!

Study shows PTC makes major contribution to regional economy

Pine Technical College released the results of a research study that estimates the annual economic impact of PTC on the regional economy to be $29 million. The study, “The economic impact of Pine Technical College,” was conducted by Wilder Research, a nationally recognized source of data used by state and local planners, policymakers and service providers.

Jose Diaz, research scientist for Wilder, said in a news release, “This economic impact research provides a statistically valid measurement of the significance of an organization’s activities on the regional economy. Policy makers and community leaders can use the data to inform their decisions. Pine Technical College clearly has a significant impact on the regional economy.”

The study further estimated, based on the East Central region's economy of $4 billion, for every $100 produced in the region, $1 is directly or indirectly related to PTC. The direct impact of the college in 2011 was $21 million, while the indirect impact in other industries was $8 million.

“Pine Technical College makes a long-term contribution to the regional economy with every graduating class because the productivity improvements from higher education last for the worker’s entire career,” explains Diaz.

Online Education FAQ

How important has distance education become? Since 2000 internet education has grown tremendously. Today it is the answer for many students out there. Here are ten frequently asked questions about online schools, the answers to which may surprise you.

10. How many students are enrolled in online education courses?

Over 8 MILLION students are registered in distance education courses. This number continues to grow every year.

9. Why are students so interested in internet schools?

Because of the economy more and more students are enrolling in schools. Both distance ed. colleges and traditional colleges have seen increased enrollment since the economy went kaput. People are trying to find better jobs and education is what it takes to get those jobs.

8. Who offers these courses?

There are online colleges and universities that offer only distance education courses. You can also take courses on the internet offered by traditional colleges and universities like Harvard and Yale. All forms of education are taking advantage of the online education popularity.

7. How are traditional colleges adapting?

Many traditional colleges have created "web facilitated" courses that allow students to study on the internet but in a face to face setting. A lot of colleges use hybrid courses that are both in class discussion with online elements.

6. What's in the future?

In 2010 63% of all traditional colleges agreed that these internet courses were vital to their future. Education online is the way of the future and traditional colleges are taking advantage of that.

5. How many students are learning this way?

Distance Education schools experience a growth in enrollment every year of about 20%. That's about 1 million NEW students a year. Everybody's doing it...really.

4. Will the hype ever end?

Not likely. Most traditional colleges have implemented online programs into their curriculum's and don't plan to change. These college courses can help a lot of students so it seems these programs are here to stay.

3. What does this mean for students?

With the continued growth of online colleges and use of these programs in traditional Universities, this means that if you are a traditional student you may be taking some courses online or using some programs through your school. If you are already an online student you can expect to see more and more of your friends joining in.

2. What are the opinions of earning your degree through the internet?

When online education was still a new concept many were skeptical as to the quality of education that students were earning through distance education courses. Since then there has been a long standing debate of the credibility of online schools. Earning your degree through these schools is the same quality as if you were to earn it from a traditional college. More and more people and employers are accepting this form of education as the norm.

1. Is online education here to stay?

Yes. The only thing that may change the attendance rates for online schools is if there is a change in financial aid. This can go both ways. If the government decides to allow more funding for online schools then, attendance may go up even further. If the government decides to reduce the funding for online schools the numbers may decrease.

Online schools are here to stay. So many students benefit from online schools and are earning their degrees through them, that it is not likely they will ever go away. If anything you should expect to see online schools and online degree courses continue to grow.

Online Colleges Have Never Been Better

Online education has come of age today. There are several good online colleges that impart the best of education online at an affordable price. These colleges also offer many options to the student. The options relate to the large variety of subjects and the levels of the degree that one may acquire. Due to the volume of information, it may become difficult for one to make a selection of the correct course, level of degree and the college from where one can obtain the degree. For this reason, there are good sites that provide accurate information on the various accredited online education providers, the courses that they offer and the degree that you can acquire. These sites also have a number of well-written articles that will help you in making your selection process simpler. There are tips on preparation for the test and sample essays. There are FAQs and their answers that help you in making up your mind regarding the course that you should select and the institution from where you have to acquire the degree.

With the advent of online education, it is no longer necessary for you to chuck your job so that you can improve your career prospects. You can go through the entire list of subjects that are on offer in various online colleges and decide on the option that is in line with your career path. Since the list is very large, you can always find a subject that suits your career progression needs. There are online degrees on offer in veterinary sciences and fashion design, in business, MBA, accounting, marketing and finance as well as IT and HR or hotel management, nursing, photography and video production. There are several levels in the degree that you wish to acquire, as well. You can acquire an Associate Degree or Bachelors, Masters or Doctoral Degree (PhD). The main necessity is that you must be enthusiastic, passionate, motivated and focused in getting your online degree. This is the only way for overcoming the challenge that an online school offers.

Online education gives you the option of studying in your own time and at your own pace. You can access your course at any time of the day or night throughout the year. You are free to read course discussions or visit your instructor during online office hours. You can also watch videos and review assignments. Online colleges will award degrees that will add validity to your resume besides updating your skills. Attending an online course does not imply that you are estranged from fellow pupils or instructors. You can have online group discussion sessions that will give you the feel of a classroom. Finally, online education will keep you abreast with the latest in world technology and this is perhaps one of the greatest advantages that online colleges offer.

Masters Degree Programs Taken Online Are As Good As Traditional Ones

Yes! Masters Degree programs on the internet are as similar as attending Master Of Business Administration classes on campus. With advancements in technology, there is noteworthy improvement in the quality of online education. Once you gain admission to one, you will find that the syllabus is quite the same in nature and you should not miss any of the crucial topics.

Before you apply for an accredited online master course, you must attain a bachelors degree or its equivalent in the same field of study. If your first degree qualification is different from your desired post or masters degree, then you must first, do a post graduate degree program in the same field or a pre-masters degree to qualify you for what is required to study for a degree you want.

With raising popularity, certain online degrees have become extremely competitive to conventional colleges and universities. Online courses are increasing in numbers every year. You can study your masters degree program online while at work or at home with slight or no changes to your own schedule and family needs.

A plethora of reputable, accredited universities can be found online, providing numerous types of programs and areas for further study in future. universities and colleges may supplement their traditional campus programs with online courses, or exist as online schools only. Today, most conventional institutions of higher learning also provide certain online learning options to stay competitive. Either way, you can obtain advanced degrees in business, nursing, health care management, education, information technology, liberal arts, or numerous other fields.

Ultimately, you must work really hard to get your accredited masters degree. The fact is success does not for all time come quickly; sometimes it takes a few years to generate the result you want. Online education is now generating a strong demand as many universities and colleges see success with the programs. It is very important you do research to know if the course is accredited or the institution is approved to offer and award the degree or post graduate degree on the internet.

There are many types of such programs you can consider. You can go for an online masters accounting degree, public administration, psychology, nursing, special education, public health, engineering or many more from any of the institutions or universities available online today.

Top 10 Most Popular Online College Majors

So you're still not sure what you want to major in? Don't worry, you're not alone. Selecting a major that is perfect and will give you career stability can be a difficult task. Listed below are 10 of the most popular online college majors based on the job market and what will always be in demand.

Business

A bachelor of business in administration offers a variety of career paths. Many people are pursuing their online degree in business including business communications, information technology, e-business, accounting business management and much more, making it the single most popular undergraduate program in the nation.

Culinary Artist

If you have a love for food, then a culinary degree can lead to an exciting and fulfilling career.

Computers

A bachelors of science in Computer Science and Information Systems are both offered online and are usually flexible, offering students comprehensive education in computers in areas such as web development, databases and security among others.

Visual Communications

If you like working with graphics design, animation, illustration and drawing is truly passionate about communicating your ideas and concept through visual media, then this could be a career path for you.

Arts & Liberal Studies

Online Arts and Liberal studies degree programs will give you a wide ranging education covering everything from science to history to human nature, among others. An online major in liberal studies provides you with a wide range of knowledge of the broader world.

Health

Nurses (RN to BSN) are in high demand and is expected to grow at a fast pace due to the current shortage of nurses across the country. There are also medical-related programs such as: medical assisting, health administration, medical transcription, psychology, health care management to choose from.

Education

If you are already in the teaching profession an advanced degree from an accredited online institution can also increase your job opportunities, earnings and career advancements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education is now one of the second largest industries in the United States, employing over 2.7 million.

Interior Design

Thinking of a career in Interior design? Interior designers work with clients and other design professionals to plan develop and design functional and attractive plans that will meet the needs of their clients.

Legal

Most of the top online colleges and universities offer associate and bachelor degrees in criminal justice, homeland security, criminal justice, forensic and much more. Criminal Justice is one of the most popular online undergraduate degree programs for students.

Engineering

Some of the most popular fields in engineering are: computer information systems, software development, game and simulation programming and networking. Engineers are always in demand.

I hope the top 10 most popular online college majors will give you an idea about what to major in. These are subject to change with the demand of the market but overall should serve as good reference. If your pick is not listed, don't be discouraged. Remember, it's your education, choose a major that best suits you.

College Financial Aid FAQ

• What is Financial Aid?

Financial aid is monetary aid to help you pay for your college education. Aid is made available from grants, college scholarships, student loans, and part-time employment from federal, state, institutional, and private sources. The types and amounts of aid awarded are determined by financial need, available funds, student classification, academic performance, and sometimes the timeliness of application.

• What is the FAFSA?

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The FAFSA is the Federal Department of education's primary application for financial aid and is the gateway form to just about any other federal, state or private grants, college scholarships, student loans or college work study programs. The FAFSA form must be filled out each year between January 1 and March 10th (although some colleges have their own earlier deadlines) and can be completed online or by mail. Four to six weeks after you file the FAFSA (two to four weeks if you filed electronically), you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) which will contain a summary of the information you submitted on your FAFSA and presents your Expected Family contributions (EFC) which tells you the amount your family is expected to contribute towards your education. The amount of financial aid is then determined approximately by the tuition of your college subtracted by your EFC. If you do not receive the SAR within a reasonable amount of time, you can call the Federal Processor at 1-319-337-5665. Review the SAR carefully for errors. If necessary, make any corrections on Part 2 of the SAR and return it promptly to the address listed on the form. You will then be sent a new SAR with the changes made.

• What is the College Scholarship Services Profile (CSS Profile)?

Some colleges also require you to fill out a College Scholarship Services Profile form in addition to the FAFSA. It is a secondary financial aid form that supplies further information about your family income. Be sure to check whether this form is necessary and about specific deadlines with your college directly.

• What is the difference between a Grant, a Student Loan and a College Scholarship?

A grant is free money from government or non-profit organizations that does not need to be repaid. Grants are usually determined by financial need but can also be influenced by academic merit. Unlike grants, student loans are money loaned from an academic institution, financial institution, or federal government that must be repaid. Like a grant, a student scholarship is free money, but is generally offered through colleges, businesses, private individuals and outside sponsors. Those awarded by the college itself are often called MERIT AID. While grants tend to be issued according to financial need, college scholarships are awarded on a broad-base of criteria, the most common being academic merit. Furthermore, to receive any grants or loans you must complete a FAFSA, however, many scholarships may not require you to complete a FAFSA to be eligible. Instead, you may need to obtain application material directly from the donor of the scholarship.

• What are the different kinds of grants?

There are federal as well as campus-based (institutional) grants. Federal Grants are free gift money from the Federal Department of Education while campus-based grants are government funds issued directly from your college. The campus-based grants provide a certain amount of funds for each participating school to administer each year. When the money for a program is gone, no more awards can be made from that program for that year, so make sure you find out about the types of grants awarded by each college you are considering as well as their specific deadline. Below are some of the most common grants.

Federal Grants

Pell Grants are considered a foundation of federal financial aid, to which aid from other federal and non-federal sources might be added. Pell Grants are usually only awarded to undergraduate students who have not earned a bachelor's or a professional degree. The amount you get depends on your financial need, your college's tuition, your status as a full-time or part-time student and your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.

The Academic Competitiveness Grant is a new grant available to first year college students who graduated from high school after January 1, 2006 or for second year college students who graduated from high school after January 1, 2005. Only students who are eligible for a Federal Pell Grant and who has successfully completed a rigorous high school program as determined by the state or local education agency and recognized by the Secretary of Education. An Academic Competitiveness Grant will provide up to $750 for the first year of undergraduate study and up to $1,300 for the second year of undergraduate study for full-time students who are eligible for a Federal Pell Grant.

The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (AKA the National Smart Grant) is available during the third and fourth years of undergraduate study to full-time students who are eligible for the Federal Pell Grant and who are majoring in physical life, or computer sciences, mathematics, technology, or engineering or in a foreign language determined critical to national security. The student must have also maintained a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 in coursework required for the major. The National SMART Grant award is in addition to the student's Pell Grant award.

Campus-based Grants 

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is a campus-based grant aimed at assisting students with exceptional financial need. Pell Grant recipients with the lowest expected family contributions (EFCs) will be considered first for a FSEOG. You can receive between $100 and $4,000 a year depending on when you apply, your financial need, the funding at the school you are attending, and the policies of the financial aid office at your school.

• What are the different kinds of student loans?

A student loan is money that needs to be repaid after you have completed your studies. Generally, interest rates are low- so that you do not rack up as much debt as you would with a credit card or bank loan.There are campus-based loans, which you repay directly to your college, as well as federal loans which you repay either directly to the U.S. government or to your financial institution. Below are several types of student loans:

Campus-based Loans

Federal Perkins Loan is a campus-based loan because it is administered directly by the financial aid office at each participating school. In other words, your school is the lender although the loan is made with government funds. Your school will either pay you directly or apply your loan to your school charges. You'll receive the loan in at least two payments during the academic year. You can borrow up to $4,000 for each year of undergraduate study with a maximum of $20,000 for your entire undergraduate degree. The amount you receive depends on when you apply, your financial need and the funding level at your school. The Federal Perkins Loan is a low-interest , 5 % loan for students with exceptional financial need. You must repay this loan directly to your school and you have nine months to begin your repayment plan after you graduate. Generally you will make monthly payments to the school that loaned you the money over a 10 year period.

Federal Loans

The U.S. Department of Education administers the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program and the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan (Direct Loan) Program. Both the FFEL and Direct Loan programs consist of what are generally known as:  Stafford Loans (for students) and PLUS loans (for Parents).Schools generally participate in either the FFEL or Direct Loan program, but sometimes schools participate in both. For either type of loan, you must fill out FAFSA, after which your school will review the results and will review the results and will inform you about your loan eligibility. You also will have to sign a promissory note, a binding legal document that lists the conditions under which you're borrowing, and the terms under which you agree to repay the loan.

Stafford Loans are federal loans for students. Eligibility rules and loan amounts are identical under both the FFEL and Direct loan programs, but providers and repayment plans differ. For all Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2006, the interest rate is fixed at 6.8 percent. However, you can be considered for a subsidized loan, depending on your financial need, in which the government will pay (subsidize) the interest on your loan while you're in school, for the first six months after you leave school and if you qualify to have your payments deferred. You might be able to borrow loan funds beyond your subsidized loan amount even if you don't have demonstrated financial need. In that case, you'll receive an unsubsidized loan. Your school will subtract the total of your other financial aid from your cost of attendance to determine whether you are eligible for an unsubsidized loan. Unlike a subsidized loan, you are responsible for you're the interest from the time the loan is disbursed until the time it is repaid in full.After you graduate, you will have a six month 'grace-period' before you must begin repayment. During this period of time, you'll receive repayment information, and you'll be notified of your first payment due date. You are responsible for beginning repayment on time, even if you don't receive this information. You will receive more detailed information on your repayment options during entrance and exit counselling sessions provided by your school.

• Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Funds from your FFEL will come from a bank, credit union or other lender that participates in the program. Schools that participate in the FFEL program, will usually have a list of preferred lenders. Student loan borrowers may choose a lender from that list, or choose a different lender they prefer. Your loan money must first be applied to pay for tuition and fees, room and board and other school charges. If money remains, you'll receive the funds by cheque or in cash.Besides interests, you will pay a fee of up to 4 % of the loan, deducted proportionately from each loan disbursement. For a FFEL Stafford Loan, a portion of this fee goes to the federal government, and a portion goes to the guaranty agency (the organization that administers the FFEL Program in your state) to help reduce the cost of your loans.

• Direct Loan -- Under the direct loan program, the funds for your loan come directly from the federal government and you will need to repay your Direct Loan to the U.S. Department of Education's Direct Loan Servicing Center. Like the FFEL loan, you will pay a fee of up to 4 % of the loan. For a direct Stafford Loan, the entire fee goes to the government to help reduce the cost of the loans.

PLUS Loans (Parent Loans) -- Parents can borrow a PLUS Loan to help pay your education expenses if you are a dependent undergraduate student enrolled at least half time in an eligible program at an eligible school. PLUS Loans are available through the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) Program and the Direct Loan Program. Your parents can get either loan, but not both, for you during the same enrolment period. They must also have an acceptable credit history.For a Direct PLUS Loan, your parents must complete a Direct PLUS Loan application and promissory note, contained in a single form that you get from your school's financial aid office.For a FFEL PLUS Loan, your parents must complete and submit a PLUS Loan application available from your school, lender, or your state guaranty agency. After the school completes its portion of the application, it must be sent to a lender for evaluation.

• What are the different kinds of scholarships?

Scholarships are awarded on a broad-base of criteria, the most common being academic merit. Many scholarships carry conditions besides academic merit, such as financial need, affiliation with a group-, leadership, athletic talent, artistic or musical ability etc. Some scholarships are awarded by the college itself, often called MERIT AID. Other scholarships are awarded by outside sponsors. For some scholarships, you need to be nominated. For most of them, you apply directly to a sponsor. Because there are so many different types of scholarships, you should check directly with your financial aid office at your college.

• Can I apply for a grant, a loan and a scholarship at the same time?

Yes. You can team up different types of financial aid or simply have one kind. Nevertheless, some types of financial aid are contingent on others. For example, you can only receive an Academic Competitive Grant or a Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant if you have received a Pell Grant. While you cannot team up a FFEL loan with a direct loan, you may be eligible to receive a subsidized loan (in which the interest is paid by the government) and an unsubsidized loan (in which you are responsible for the interest) at the same time. You can also combine grants with loans and scholarships, so it never hurts to try to get as many different varieties of aid as possible!

• What is the Federal Work Study Program?

The Federal Work-Study Program (FWS) is a campus-based program that provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, that allows them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to the recipient's course of study.

• How often should I apply for financial aid?

You will need to apply for financial aid each year. Even if you did not qualify this year, you should reapply next year since financial circumstances can change. The number of family members in college, for example can have a big impact on your eligibility for financial aid. If you submitted a FAFSA during the previous year, you may be able to complete the shorter Renewal FAFSA form instead. The renewal FAFSA will be mailed to your home. The renewal FAFSA preprints most of your answers from the previous year's FAFSA. Verify that the old responses are still accurate and provide corrections or new answers where appropriate. If you don't receive a renewal FAFSA by February 15, fill out a new FAFSA form.

• How do I know whether I am eligible for financial aid?

Don't assume that you will not qualify for financial aid. Nearly all U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens enrolled at least half the time are now eligible for some form of financial aid. Even if you don't qualify for a grant, free college info is still available, and you may still be eligible for other forms of financial assistance. Many families don't apply for financial aid, because they believe that they earn too much money. However, you don't need to be from a low-income family to receive financial aid. Some loans and scholarships are available regardless of need. Many factors are used to determine your eligibility for financial aid and there is no simple rhyme or reason. Get out there and apply and secure your future today!

Are Online Colleges Right for You?

So, you've been thinking about advancing your education so that you can gain that extra earning power that college graduates enjoy.  It is well known that college graduates have a lower risk of unemployment, enjoy better job quality, are more likely to be in high-level positions and have much greater promotion prospects because of their advanced level of education.  Perhaps you already have your bachelors and want to get your masters so that you are ready for greater opportunities that come your way.  No matter what degree level you want to pursue, you can do it all from the comfort of your home through online degree programs offered by online colleges.

If you are considering studying for an online college degree, then you are not alone.  Online colleges and universities are becoming very popular as more and more people are realizing the benefits of online learning.  Pursuing a college degree online is an advantageous way to study as you can learn at your own pace and on your own time. But even with all the advantages of pursing an online college degree, is an online college right for you?

Pursuing an online college degree is not for everyone.  You need to have the right characteristics to study for an online college degree.  Some of the characteristics needed when pursuing an online college degree are:

• Self-motivation & Self-discipline

• Ability to prioritize

• Ability to set your own goals

• Good reading comprehension

• Self-Motivation & Self-Discipline

You need to be highly self-motivated and self-disciplined and thus, be able to work without supervision.  Since you don’t have a set class times at online colleges, it will be up to you to set your own studying times.  It will help if you plan out your day and carve the same specific time each day to study.  Self-discipline is required so you resist the urge of other distractions in your home such as doing the laundry, washing the dishes or watching TV.  Self-discipline will also help you stick to your deadlines.


Ability to Prioritize

If you are choosing to pursue an online college degree, then it is probably because you have many other commitments to juggle such as work and family.  Once you have made the commitment to attend an online college, then you must keep in mind that your education is just as an important of a commitment.  With that mentioned, you should possess the ability to prioritize your schedule.

Just because online college degree programs are flexible, this does not mean the courses are easy, nor does it mean you can procrastinate class assignments and projects.  With the many other commitments you have, it is important to prioritize your schedule, set deadlines, and as mentioned above, stick to the deadlines you set.

Ability to Set Your Own Goals

As with getting a degree through a traditional campus college, it is easy to fall off track without clear goals.  Thus it is important to set both short-term and long-term goals when you pursue an online college degree.  Some online colleges allow you to get a degree at your own pace and your pace will determine whether you get your online college degree in two years or ten years.  When you pursue an online college degree you should set reasonable short-term goals such as taking 6-8 units (or as much as you can take) per quarter or semester.  These short-term goals will help you reach your long-term goal with ease and will show the progress you are making towards achieving your long-term goal.

Good Reading Comprehension

A good level of reading comprehension is needed as online colleges teach primarily through written material written at college level.  While you may have interaction with your classmates and/or instructor, the interaction will be done primarily through e-mail, chat rooms, and message boards.

If you find it difficult to attend college courses on campus, attending an online college is a great way to earn your degree.  With online colleges and universities, you now have the opportunity to advance your education without having to push aside previous commitments.  Just keep these characteristics in mind and you can be successful in advancing your education by earning your college degree online.

Receiving an Ivy League Degree Online?

Many people have dreamed of attending an Ivy League School, but circumstances and location may have prevented this from becoming a reality. No longer. There are many Ivy League online classes now available. This means that regardless of where you live or limitations like work or family responsibilities are no longer a factor, and you CAN earn an Ivy League degree online! The following Ivy League schools offer online education in one form or another:

Columbia University

The two primary schools at Columbia offering online programs are Engineering and the Teacher's College. The Graduate Engineering department, through the Columbia Video Network (CVN), offers graduate distance-learning courses. CVN allows students anywhere in the world to pursue fully accredited engineering courses and degree programs through the internet. The Teacher's College presently offers more than 300 online courses.

Harvard University

This esteemed institution is yet to offer a complete online degree program, however, they do offer two graduate level online certificate programs that can be completed entirely online. These are Applied Sciences and Environmental Management. Please note, if you are interested in earning a degree through the Harvard Extension School, you may do so, but you will have to combine online courses with some classroom attendance.

Cornell University

Cornell offers a number of online certificates and courses ranging from Issues and Concepts in Equal Employment Opportunities Law and Employment Laws for the HR Professional to Fundamentals of Welfare and Flexible Benefits and Organizational Culture and Work/Life Balance. If you want to spice up your resume, Cornell University offers several 100% online certificates.

University of Pennsylvania

Penn currently offers the following online programs:

• PennAdvance - This offers individuals a way to earn Penn undergraduate credit or audit Penn courses from any location.

• Dental Education - Online continued education opportunities are available from the School of Dental Medicine.

• Medical Education - CME course offered from the School of Medicine.

• Nursing Education - Professional Development courses are offered from the School of Nursing.

• English Language Programs Online Courses - These are reading, writing, and test preparation courses for international professionals and students.

Dartmouth College 

Dartmouth College now offers the Dartmouth Online Bridge Program which is founded on the school's campus-based Tuck Business Bridge Program. This is a "total immersion" business program for liberal arts graduates, PhDs, and what are referred to by Dartmouth as high potential employees. The Online Bridge Program is made up four programs series which include financial accounting, finance, marketing, and managerial economics. These programs offer students twenty-five specifically focused courses in the area of business, accounting and finance.

Yale University

Yale University currently only offers online degrees from its School of Medicine, however, they also offer some free online classes, although these are more based around course material not actual classes as such. These include courses in Astronomy, English, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, and more.

These schools are considered among the best in the world, so earning an Ivy League degree online has to be seriously considered by anyone wishing to add clout to their resume.

Online Learning - Changing The Future Of Education

Online classes for elementary and secondary students are offered in 46 states across the country today. In 2006, the state of Michigan passed a law requiring all students to participate in some form of online learning before graduation. Several online schools have been created throughout the state, and additionally, many schools offer a blended ground-online curriculum.

One such school is the Jackson Learning Lab, an online public school centered in Jackson, MI. The school currently has 18 students enrolled and hosts a computer lab in downtown Jackson. Students have the option of completing their coursework in the lab, but aren't required to. All work can be done from a home computer with Internet access.

Lauren Jones, a sophomore with the Jackson Learning Lab has only spent a few days of the school year in an actual classroom. But, her mother said that her daughter "has never learned as much as she has right now." Jones receives the same quality education online that she did in a traditional classroom. Many students often find that they actually learn better online when they aren't surrounded by distractions from other students in the classroom who learn at a different pace.

Online education has greatly increased in popularity over the past several years. Experts predict that within the next decade, online learning will "have a profound influence on every aspect of education." For example, schools will no longer need to physically accommodate all of their students at the same time. Money spent on school reconstruction and expansion could be directed elsewhere as more students choose to spend either all or some of their mandatory school time learning online. A predicted 25 percent of elementary and secondary students will be taking online classes in the next five years. In addition, half of high school classes are expected to be offered online within ten years.

Critics of online education often worry that a lack of interaction among students or between a student and his or her teacher can have a negative effect on students. But instructors who teach online courses think differently.

Jamey Fitzpatrick, president of Michigan Virtual University said that one-to-one student and teacher interaction actually increases with online education. Although teachers in a virtual classroom do not have face-to-face communication with their students, young students actually communicate better online. A student who needs extra help may not want to speak up in front of an entire classroom, but wouldn't be opposed to sending the teacher a quick email asking for clarification. Fitzpatrick said that he has "had teachers say they know more about their virtual students than the ones they see in a classroom" because students feel more comfortable communicating through email.

Are Online Accredited Courses a Good Educational Choice?

For many people, the mention of college brings to mind vivid images of ivy-covered brick buildings set amongst spacious green lawns; swarming throngs of students walking along paths beneath canopies of ancient shade trees; bearded professors lecturing in large student-filled halls; blackboards covered with cryptic mathematical symbols, and perhaps countless other vignettes of college life. While these scenes are a reality for some students, for others college life is much different. The advent of the internet in recent years has opened up a whole new way for students to attend college and earn their degrees online, often without ever having to darken a college classroom door.

Online accredited courses--also known as distance learning and e-learning courses--enable working adults with established careers and personal lives to gain additional education for things such as career advancement, professional certification, self improvement, or even simple pleasure. Online courses offer students tremendous flexibility in being able to study at a time and place that best fits into their busy schedules.

With just a little research on the internet you will find a huge offering of online accredited courses from hundreds of colleges, universities, vocational and trade schools. Nearly all universities offer at least a few online courses if not complete degree programs online. A student can take e-learning classes in nearly every discipline and branch of study, and earn degrees ranging all the way from high school diplomas to doctorates.
Barely more than a decade ago, few people could foresee the day when students could take a class from their living room with nothing more than a lap top computer connected to the internet. That day has arrived, and opened the doors of education to millions of students worldwide. Only in a day of revolutionary technological innovation could someone find such a convenience as online classes.

Whether you've already attained a college degree and are looking to further your education, or you've never gone to college but would like to get your college degree or high school diploma, online accredited courses may be the key that unlocks the door to your goals. With the popularity of distance learning education continuing to grow by leaps and bounds each year, the day may come when the traditional college experience is more of a memory than a reality. Just as few could predict the rise in online learning, who can really know what the future holds for education.

The Popularity and Demand for Online Accredited Degrees

Online accredited degrees are educational degrees, offered by reputable universities, which have been accredited by the government of that region. There are many benefits of acquiring such accredited degrees online. The primary one is that it requires virtually no commuting, thus saving you a lot of time and travel expenses. This kind of an online accredited degree will let you complete your selected course, according to your convenience at any time of the day. You can also learn these online accredited courses at your own pace and individual style.

Should you decide not to pursue an online accredited degree program, then you face the risk of devalueing your degree from various employers, educational institutions and universities. Thus, online accredited degree programs have more weight and greater reputation than non-accredited ones.

In order to find out whether your preferred educational institution is accredited, you need to do some research to ascertain the accreditation of various education universities online. Once you complete such courses, you will be able to achieve online certificate degrees. This kind of a program online accredited degree will add extra qualification to your resume.

Online education may not be easier or simpler than traditional courses. However, online education courses and online degree programs give you the advantage of studying at flexible hours. When these degrees gain accreditation, they become quite reputed and appreciated globally.

Distance education primarily involves the earning of degrees and certificates, whereby you do not have to go to any campus or take classes from any teacher directly. Online distance education is very common in this type of education. There are many reputable distance education universities that offer distance higher education and international distance education online. They also offer many accredited degrees online bachelor and masters as well. This kind of online accredited degree, bachelor and masters are open to almost anyone and everyone and covers a wide range of academic subjects that are in demand all over the world. Even HVAC continuing education programs are available online.

You will also find many regionally accredited colleges that offer many online courses for students. These kind of courses primarily benefit physically handicapped and disabled students. However, there is a certain criteria for selection that students who apply for such an online course must pass. Once you fulfill those, you become eligible for such courses.

Apart from academic courses, there are also many non-academic technical courses available online. For instance, the hospitality services management and other management courses are both reputable and popular. You can achieve distance education bachelor and masters degree in these courses and receive certificates as well. These will enable you to have a greater chance of getting placement in related jobs. However, you should not get confused with an online course or program with a correspondence one. The primary difference between them is that in the case of the former the course materials for study are accessible via Internet, while for the latter the study material is sent via courier or by post.

In recent times, the popularity and demand of online educational programs has grown considerably. But be warned, you should be aware of the presence of fake high school diplomas and other programs that are not genuine. In this context, online accredited degrees are the most reputable and reliable.

What exactly is "continuing education"?

Continuing education is something quite similar to adult education. It has the same target – adult learners and especially the ones who have gone beyond the standard undergraduate college or university years. However, it would be wrong to talk about continuing education and compare it with any other program for education like vocational training. Like the name of it suggests this is some additional education a person can receive after college or university. The student undertaking continuing education programs needs to have some qualification they have gotten prior to that.

The simplest form of continuing education is a post-secondary course or program. Some continuing education programs are intended to provide some professional training, which does not qualify for any degree for the student undertaking this course. There are certain credits given for continuing education courses and this is why many people want to undertake them at some point in their professional development.

Most often continuing education courses are offered by a college or a university and in case you are looking for such a course you should first try to find it in the university you have previously studied and got your degree from. Most often there is a certain division or a school for continuing education which can sometimes be called university extension or an extension school. There are both courses that give credits and ones that do not and they can all provide some continuing education for enthusiasts. If you are looking to enrich yourself, you can surely benefit from a course that does not offer any credits at all since you will not be needing them for your career development.

Not only students can benefit from some continuing education but also some experts that need to get updates in their fields of work and some of these courses might even be compulsory for people with certain professions that require update of skills on regular basis. The ones who have licenses in order to practice a specific profession need to undergo continuing education training every few years and there are even cases when this needs to be done even more commonly. The licenses of such individuals are given for a certain period of time and they cannot be reissued in case the individual does not go to a continuing education training course. This is done in order to encourage all professionals to be more professional when it comes to their work and stay up to date with all the developments related to what they do.

In order to receive some continuing education, people need to attend regular classes that are set in classrooms but there are also some options for studying from a distance. The ones who go to a certain university or college in order to enroll for some continuing education usually choose to attend classes there and get some laboratory work too in case it is needed. However, working people can choose the distance option and still benefit from continuing education in the best way. If you are interested in continuing education leave me a comment or email me and I can point you in the right direction.

The Key to Your Future: Education

Education is always an important key to a good future. Since his campaign to become President, Barack Obama has made education a key issue. Many important people are focused on increasing scholarship opportunities and improving education. One familiar part of the economic meltdown is the rise in college tuition and other costs. Scholarship packages rarely cover the full amount for tuition, books and housing. With high costs looming, many young adults can't afford to go to a university. Single, working moms are a big section of this group. Helping single mothers get an education helps their families and future employers. The President has attempted to help by encouraging more grants for single mothers to attend school. If you've heard of Obama grants for moms, know that people are referring to Federal Pell Grants. To help with university costs, a student can earn more than $5,000. The primary goal is to encourage single moms to return to school, and by 2012 they could receive as much as $5,400. With these grants for moms, they can pay for tuition, books or any other school-related expenses.

Another worthwhile program is the American Opportunity Tax Credit. With this tax program, the first $4,000 of community college or university expenses are free. This is a worthy incentive, especially for schools that are less expensive. Single moms often fall into this group, so these programs are particularly beneficial to them. Study options are wide open. Taking away a little of the financial burden of college is a helpful way to get more students enrolled. Making more efforts to improve education opportunities is the best way for President Obama to show that he values them. The stimulus plan that passed has some provisions to make the college loan process easier. Preparing schools and students for success is an important Obama administration mission.

Another goal is to encourage more students to attend community colleges. A 2-year degree or the time spent learning a technical school from a community college can be a tremendous asset. In 2007 Obama stated, "We need to put a college education within reach of every American. That's the best investment we can make in our future." With the measures he has taken to this point, the President has demonstrated he means his words. Scholarships for moms are only a small part of the mission to help educate more people. If you're a potential student who wants to make education a priority, there are many chances for you to do so.

Benefits of Private Universities

There are numerous college entrants who immediately eliminate top private universities from their lists of prospective institutions, assuming that these private universities are far too costly.  Before you make this mistake, consider the different benefits in opting to attend a private school.  The cost difference is likely not as dramatic as you think it might be, and ultimately, the advantages of attending one of the top private universities may be far grander than you ever imagined.

The Cost Of Education

The raw numbers that are presented in brochures can certainly be a bit shocking, but it is important to remember that the top private universities generally have greater endowment funds, which allows these institutions to provide students with more merit and need-based forms of financial assistance.

With everything considered, it may be surprising to find that you could have the ability to attend an Ivy League school for approximately the same cost as attending a public university.  Your student debt upon graduating may even be less significant.  If you are academically qualified, funding for attending a school, or lack of said funding, is certainly not a good reason to miss out on applying to the school of your dreams.  So complete your FAFSA and take a chance on yourself and your dreams.

The Advantages

The most highly sought-after and prestigious degree programs are often offered at private schools.  Due to the smaller sized classes, students get more undivided attention from their esteemed professors and have a much greater opportunity to foster strong personal relationships with their instructors and mentors.

There is a much greater selection in available extra-curricular activities at the top private universities, making it possible for students to bond with one another and to become lifelong friends.  These institutions can also be more academically enriching than their public counterparts as well, given an abundance of special programs, such as study abroad opportunities.

After having passed the rigorous selection process and been granted admission, you will be entering into a learning environment that is highly competitive.  There are more tutoring options for students at private schools, along with a greater abundance of subject matter labs, study groups and private time with instructors in order to foster success.

Contrary to instruction received at a public university, your freshman year core classes are not likely to be taught by teaching assistants when attending one of the top private universities.

Students who graduate from prestigious and top private universities will generally secure lucrative positions in their chosen fields, immediately after receiving their degrees, making it possible for graduates to pay down educational debt fast and to start building personal wealth.

Quality of Online Education Institutions

Thanks to the development in Internet technology and increasing use of Internet by the users worldwide that has led to explosion of online colleges/online universities that award online degrees in different streams such as associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. The goal of providing education by one of the accredited online schools or online colleges/universities is to ensure that programs provided by these institutions of higher education to all potential students are quality and meet the exact demand of student's character's and personality development. However, considering the abundance of online schools/colleges, students should avoid the fake ones and make sure that the online education institutes are accredited and recognized by a state government.

The importance of getting online master degree or online bachelors' degree from an accredited online school is that students of different kinds can get the utmost benefits out of it. It ensures accredited higher learning for students, who are physically challenged, soldiers and those students living abroad and busy working class people just to mention a few. There is basically a slight difference between physically attending a lecture class by sitting an auditorium and watching a webcast video of your professor online. The first option requires you to be physically present there while the second option lets you enjoy the lecture of your professor from the comfort zone of your home.

More so, there is a difference between accreditation of the quality of the online degrees and on-campus degrees. Most of the top-notch online colleges or schools are regionally accredited. However, a variation in public perception about these accredited online colleges is a common occurrence.

Considering the importance of getting online masters degree from an accredited university seems much more cost-effective way of realizing your dream of higher education. Since, offline education institutes are not suitable for physically disabled or busy working class people or those staying in foreign land, the online college or university is really a one-stop destination for them to achieve higher accredited education. There are considerably a large number of online universities or colleges in the world offering their quality education to all those students/business executives/employees who seek a comfortable way of getting higher education without any hassle of attending class. From getting quality online degrees to enjoying comforts at home, online colleges or schools or universities are ideal choice in this regard.

While you are thinking about pursuing higher education through online colleges, you should consider some vital points beforehand in this regard. Considering abundance of online colleges/universities, it is important to make sure whether the college you chose to study is accredited. This will ensure that the online degree you have earned is a genuine academic record of your study in the college. More so, you should get all essential information about the online college from students or online reviews to finally deduce the reputation of the college. The Internet is fraught with such resources that will guide you which online degree or school will be an ideal choice for your academic purpose.