Posts Tagged college
Top Academic and Admission Strategies for Colleges
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on January 25th, 2010
Copyright (c) 2008 Karen Bolton
With the rising cost of college, it is important to utilize as many cost cutting strategies as possible. Let’s explore some top academic and admission strategies to help reduce the cost of college.
1.Career Planning
Career planning is often overlooked during the college planning process. However, this is one of the most important decisions that students will make. Without proper career planning, many students take 5-6 years to complete a degree. Many students receive degrees in declining growth fields or fields with a surplus of applicants and cannot find employment after graduation.
However, this can play a critical role in reducing the overall cost of college. A contributing factor in the college dropout and transfer rates is a lack of career planning and a failure to make college decisions based on career goals. Research by the US Dept of Education and American College Testing show that each year, approximately 50% of college freshman leave the college in which they first enrolled. Of the dropouts, about 30% transfer to other colleges at least once, and 20% transfer twice and typically take 6 or more years to complete a 4-year program.
Students who receive career planning prior to college selection and attendance have few major changes and college transfers, graduate on time, and tend to be more goal- and academic-focused. You may want to check out web-based career planning services at www.careerdimension.com and www.myroad.com.
2. Use Smart Admission Strategies
Apply where the student is academically above the incoming freshman class profile. Private colleges place a premium on good students and will often use tuition discounts to attract them to their campuses.
Apply for admission early. The student should submit an application to the college as soon as possible in the senior year of high school (September through December). After a college begins to fill the upcoming year’s freshman class, the need for the college to offer a tuition discount diminishes. Colleges need to complete their enrollment quotas as early as possible, so they often offer scholarships (tuition discounts) to the students who apply early (even students who do not qualify for need-based aid).
Apply to schools that have a low enrollment yield factor. The lower a college’s enrollment yield (yield percentage), the higher the probability of the student receiving tuition discounts. The enrollment yield is calculated by dividing the number of students enrolled by the number of students admitted. Enrollment is key to a college’s survival. Many colleges select students for admission to their school, only to have them enroll in another school. The colleges have a constant battle to fill seats every year (lesser-known private colleges are even more challenged because they must compete with the low cost of public universities and the popularity of the elite private schools).
The student should also apply to private colleges. Many private colleges have declining enrollments due to their high cost and competition from low-cost universities and popular elite private colleges. These colleges often give a tuition discount to students to fill empty seats at the college. Private colleges must compete with less-expensive, state-subsidized public universities.
Many private colleges offer incredible financial award packages to attract good students. Plus they offer smaller class sizes, which increase the student’s chance of attaining a degree in four years. Be sure to include a few private colleges in your selection process. You might be surprised with the outcome.
The student should apply to six to eight colleges. Do not limit your ability to negotiate the price of college. Apply to several colleges to maximize your financial opportunities. By applying to several colleges, the student is given the opportunity to receive a tuition discount from one college and use that discount to ask for a comparative discount, or better, from the college the student prefers to attend. Try to pick at least several schools where your child lies in the top 25% of the incoming freshman class. This strategy is more applicable to students attending private colleges.
If the student is planning to attend a private college, the student should create competition between colleges. The following types of colleges will create competition for your child:
A college in the same athletic conference
The student should apply to colleges that are competitive in the same area or location, athletic conference, or intellectual fields. The most competition often occurs between colleges that are in the same athletic conference.
An in-state public university
Even though you plan to go to a private college, always apply to a good in-state public university. The public university’s low cost may force the private college to offer a tuition discount to make its cost competitive with the public university’s cost. Low-cost public universities are the private colleges’ main competition.
A similar college outside of the student’s region of residency
The student should apply to similar private colleges that are located outside of the student’s region of residency. Most private colleges try to achieve regional diversity in its student body. The college may offer tuition discounts to entice students who are located in a different region.
3. Use the CLEP Program and AP Tests to Reduce the Cost of College
College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a widely accepted credit-by-examination program in the United States today. Although Advanced Placement (AP) courses are usually taken by above-average students, CLEP exams seem to benefit the average student and also the non-traditional (adult ed) student. The CLEP examinations are a series of examinations in undergraduate college courses that provide the student with the opportunity to demonstrate college-level achievement and achieve college credit. The examinations, which are sponsored by the College Board, are administered at colleges year-round. All CLEP exams are delivered on computer, providing test takers with instant score results. Be sure to check the college’s CLEP policy before taking any exam. The CLEP program can help students save time, save money, and advance to more specialized courses.
Perhaps the easiest and most effective way for a student to stand out academically for admissions is to score well on Advanced Placement (AP) tests offered by the College Board (www.collegeboard.com). While these studies are for the academically gifted student, they can represent real dollar reductions in the cost of college. The student can receive a full year’s credit and be granted sophomore standing from more than 1,400 higher education institutions by earning satisfactory grades on enough AP Examinations.
Online Education Receives Huge Boost From New Online Media Technology
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on September 15th, 2009
One of the largest problems facing online education courses has always been the lack of a classroom experience and a real college environment. In the past a lot of people were unable to overcome this flaw and simply wouldn’t pursue an online education. However, there have recently been some significant improvements in the technology used to deliver these online programs. Now more than ever, online courses provide a realistic and interactive setting which is now equal to or sometimes even superior to conventional college education delivery programs.
The widespread availability of high speed broadband internet connections has greatly simplified matters. Instructors can now put large video and audio presentations online, confident that their students will be able to quickly download the class material and begin working almost immediately.
A large part of modern online classes is conducted with recorded class presentations. These have also been greatly improved, with instructors narrating a PowerPoint presentation. The end result is an experience much like that of being present in the lecture hall for the presentation.
Other instructors may choose to actually videotape their classroom lectures. This provides an even more realistic experience as you can really watch the professor speak and see what they emphasize. It also helps to reinforce a name with a face so you can connect and trust that person more.
There are now also discussion boards – these allow students to interact with each other, discuss coursework and generally act as a virtual classroom for students. Many online courses also include live chat rooms to make interaction between students even easier.
Live audio and video chats are also available, depending if your computer meets the necessary system requirements. This makes collaborating on projects with other students a snap – you can also communicate with other students via Skype and other VOIP services.
You can also use the methods that your professors use. Your instructors will often use a recorded lecture or PowerPoint presentation with voice over narration; and you can do the same with your homework! Instead of simply turning in a report in plain text, you can create your own multimedia reports – now that’s sure to fetch a good grade!
Online bachelor degree courses now also feature tests. There have been a lot of advances which have allowed for the creation of online tests which can be administered accurately over the web. These tests are timed and contain multiple choice questions, essay questions and more. Just like a traditional class, you’ll need to demonstrate your understanding of the course material – technology may have changed a lot of things, but passing your tests is still up to you!
The latest generations of online education courses provide a classroom experience which can match that of any traditional school. With testing, student interaction and a realistic lecture experience, you can take advantage of all of the benefits an online education can offer you. Even if you don’t have the time to take classes at a traditional university, you can now get the education you’re looking for online. There has never been a better time!
Learning to Teach: The Basics of An Online Education Degree
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on September 13th, 2009
If you enjoy working with children, have a love for learning, and possess strong multi-tasking abilities, at some point you may have thought about becoming a teacher. Now is a good time to start earning the credentials, since this profession has been projected to grow by 12 percent between 2006 and 2016, creating about 479,000 new teaching jobs.
Teaching requires certification, which is most often obtained through a bachelor’s degree program. If you are interested in completing a bachelor’s degree, there are many online programs available. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in any subject, there are many programs offering online Master’s degrees in education that can be completed in two years.
Benefits to Earning an Online Degree
While there are various benefits to earning your education degree online, they can be summed up with one word: flexibility. You can complete coursework at your own pace, whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you. If you have a job or a family that keeps you from traditional classes, you can do the coursework in the evenings or on the weekends. The flexible schedule also means that you can still work full-time, which makes supporting yourself and paying for classes a bit easier.
What to Expect from an Online Education Degree
If you pursue an online bachelor’s or Master’s degree in education, you can expect to take typical education classes such as the following:
You will complete both practicums and student teaching to get real-life experience teaching and managing a class. If your online coursework is synchronous, you will participate in online discussions or videoconferencing at particular times; if your coursework is asynchronous, you will complete lessons and participate in learning activities at your own pace.
Tips for Earning an Online Education Degree
Of course, the best advice for anyone wanting to pursue an online bachelor’s or Master’s degree in education is to make sure you’re truly interested in teaching, and then go for it. With all the online education programs out there, now is a better time than ever to start working towards a degree in education.
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Online Education College Degree: The Top 3 Advantages
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on September 9th, 2009
An online education college degree is the non-traditional, trendy way to get the 21st century benefits of a higher education.
From early on, our parents have drummed into our heads how important it is to have a college degree.
For the 99% of us (minus the 1% who are the Bill Gates and Michael Dell’s of the world, and those that inherit millions) having a college degree is an advantage even basic requirement for our careers.
However, studying full-time at a university may not work out for many people for various reasons. Luckily there are good options and that’s where an online education college degree shines.
This so-called new trend really takes the best of the old way of learning and combines with the latest technologies. The courses and curriculum are really just the same.
What’s missing from the mix is lengthy commute, schedule rearrangements and to some extent expensive textbooks. Most universities offer accredited degrees in all manner of majors and degree levels.
This method of education works well for many people who missed out on college education earlier due to financial circumstances, lack of accessibility to a college.
Therefore, the online education students are not your usual type. The typical he or she is someone who already has a career and a family and find these programs helpful to advance their career.
Here then are the Top 3 advantages to choosing an online education college degree:
1. Affordability: Online education courses are usually more affordable than the traditional university. This factor is particularly helpful to the student who has a family and children to support. The student gains an opportunity to advance his career.
2. Accessibility: Let’s not forget that not every town has a local university. This is a problem for those who would like to obtain a college degree. Well, not anymore.
3. Flexibility: Studying from home allows for flexibility. This has certain benefits. For instance, the adult student does not need to attend classes with other younger students and feel uncomfortable.
Remote learning also allows the student to focus on studies rather than college activities.
The benefits to learning online cannot be overstated. Provided she has a good sense of self-discipline, the student enjoys greater flexibility, a more affordable education, and the comfort of learning at her own pace, as well the convenience of studying in their home environment.
Given they kind of stress we have to endure in today’s workplace, an online education college degree is the answer for many adults looking for a way to further their education, boost their income and most importantly, build a better future for their families.
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Riding the Technological Wave: Breaking Into it Through Online Education and Certification
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on August 29th, 2009
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information technology-related jobs are expected to be among the fastest and largest growing jobs in the economy through 2016. In fact, computer software engineers, computer systems analysts, network systems and data communication analysts should see significant gains in both employment and annual salary. You can position yourself to take advantage of this industry growth with an online education or professional certification. Online Education was Made for ITA variety of factors are combining to move technology education from the campus to the Internet. According to the most recent statistics compiled by the Sloan Consortium, nearly 3.5 million students were enrolled in online courses in the fall of 2006 and two out of every ten college students in the country took at least one online course during that period. In fact, more than more than two-thirds of all higher education institutions have some form of online education in place.When you consider it, the distance learning format is especially suited for the IT industry simply because it offers you a rich technological component that you generally can’t get from the traditional campus route. Logging in to your classroom, accessing networks of research and study tools, and conversing via chat with professors and fellow students can prepares you for the challenges of the profession during each class and study session.Certification versus DegreeIronically enough, preparation for an IT career poses a unique conundrum for potential professionals. Should you follow the traditional academic route and earn a bachelor’s degree? Or is a professional certification your best bet? While the answer is not an easy one to determine, taking stock in your career goals may shed some light on the issue. You should ask yourself three important questions when considering a degree or certification:
Where Do You Want to Go? If immediate employment is a critical factor, an IT certification might be the way to go. If professional variety is more appealing, a degree in computer science or programming, for example, offers you a broad base of knowledge applicable in several roles. What is Your Time Frame? If you’re an established professional looking to augment your skills for a quick lateral or upward position change, certification can give you that freedom. However, a traditional degree might be smarter if your fresh out of high school, or a mid career changer, and you plan on committing yourself to the IT industry. What Kind of Learning Do You Seek? IT certification is typically marked by an association with like-minded professionals who can help you shape your professional direction. With the degree route, you can benefit from the student-oriented experience of which colleges and universities are best known.Potential Career PathsWhile pure IT careers are still viable, you should recognize that future opportunities mimic the ways technology applies to business. As the business world continues to fuse with the computer world, IT pros should enjoy unique opportunities in the near future. For example, the maturity of the industry should create a host of new job titles and activities. In other words, IT may no longer be a subset, but rather become integrated into traditional business roles.While integrated IT roles may soon find their way into the workplace, there are two key factors to consider when pursuing an IT career path. First, the average IT career sees about 10 job titles in a twenty year span. That means you should be flexible and knowledgeable enough to adapt to the professional flow within the IT industry. Second, positions such as LAN technicians and network support are typically transitional positions–meaning entry-level graduates can easily fill them. In turn, mastering an IT specialty may provide for true staying power in the IT world. The bottom line?Consider how your education–whether an online degree or certification–will prepare you to enter, adjust, and stay competitive in the marketplace.
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You Can’t Beat The Convenience Of An Online Education
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on August 25th, 2009
The path ahead, as many studies and surveys have brought out, is taking some online courses or getting an online degree. This opportunity that has rapidly evolved in the recent years allows many of us who do not have access to university or college campus to get ahead and obtain an education. Today, more and more institutions are offering a variety of classes online and you can choose between a certificate, a diploma or a degree.
Online educations are perfect for people who don’t have enough time or resources to return to school full time. Many people who are already in the work force would like to upgrade their existing skills, or perhaps change careers completely. For many people quitting their existing job and going back to school is just not an option. There are bills to pay, and student loans are sometimes difficult to get or don’t cover enough of the costs associated with a quality education.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, online education is the perfect solution to your problem. You can keep your job and use your off hours to go online. Sacrificing week-ends and some of your leisure time during the week might take you to a whole new career.
People who live in rural areas are also good candidates for getting an online education. If you live in an area where there is no university or college campus nearby it used to be your only option was to pack up and move. For some people this just wasn’t an option. If your spouse already has a good job and your kids are settled in school, furthering your education took a backseat to other priorities. But now you can get that degree you’ve always wanted without leaving the comfort of your own home.
The modus operandi for most of the online education courses is that you sign up with whatever institution you would like to, irrespective of physical location and then start taking classes online. Additionally, all material that you may require is sent to your home by the institute. Depending on the course layout, most of the course work is completed at home while you may need to take the final exam at a convenient location.
A fact to be considered is that online courses are NOT easier than classes taken in a traditional classroom setting. Therefore, before you embark on this path, you should think about how much time you will be able to spare for your homework. These courses take as long and as much effort as a regular course.
The time required for the course is generally discussed upfront. Most institutes indicate the normal duration and the minimum input required to meet that time schedule. Make sure that you can devote at least the minimum suggested time. Often the time required is more than the recommended as the pupil is unable to lead a disciplined routine. It is very easy to get into the habit of putting things off for the next day. That’s why it is important to set deadlines and do daily work.
If time management is one of your strong suits then you shouldn’t have a problem being an online student. Often schools provide advisors to help you via email. If you aren’t sure about how well you’d do, take a few classes to find out. If you work well in that setting then you can pursue that elusive degree.
Online Education – The Fantastic Opportunity You Have Been Looking For! (we tell you why)
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on August 18th, 2009
When you are researching online education courses, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover the vast variety of courses and programs that are currently being offered. The programs range from basic certificate courses to full accredited masters and doctoral degree programs. But exactly what changes can acquiring an online education bring to your life and how does the recent developments in online education make it easier for you to continue your education?the first thing you will notice is how much sheer variety there is out there. There are many courses that are intended for people who are looking at furthering their education, including many well respected universities who are offering online programs of their own. There are also smaller, certificate oriented courses as well as online bachelors degree courses that could take your level of knowledge far beyond your wildest dreams! Completing an online program is something that can potentially change your life.Why Select An Online Education Program?What are the advantages of earning an online education? The first thing that instantly springs to mind is the flexibility and convenience. Rather than commuting to a college, day after day, wasting valuable time traveling, you are able to take classes from the comfort of your own home. Provided you have a fast Internet connection and a reliable computer, you will be able to enroll and excel as you undertake your desired course online.Another advantage is that your online courses can be scheduled whenever you want them to be. You don’t have to stress about missing a lecture or having to rearrange your schedule. This is a critical if you have a family or are in full time employment, working around the rigid schedule required by traditional schooling can be a real problem, but this is no longer an issue as online programs allow you to log in and access your class material whenever it suits you!Most people cant just resign from their job and go to college fulltime or stop caring for your children and home. The great thing is, online programs enable you to undertake your learning whenever it suits you. If you can squeeze it in the morning or late at night, in your lunch break or over the weekends, as long as you complete the required workload it isn’t important when you do it.And What Online Programs Are Available Out There?The best thing about the push towards online courses is the fact that there such a large selection. There are simple, quick courses, and there are many skill building type programs and certificate courses as well. They can last weeks, or even months, depending on how deep they go.A number of topics and subjects are covered in this way. You may find yourself looking at a course teaching software programs for subjects like marketing, science or interior design. With these types of courses, you get an instant boost to your skill level, which can be very satisfying while earning you more respect and improved employment opportunities.You can also complete your current bachelors degree or do an entire bachelor degree through online education programs. Bachelor degree courses can be accelerated so you can finish the entire process in less than two years. If you are interested in this here is a link to a great article on fast online degrees. Alternatively, you can pace yourself taking only one or two subjects at a time and work away at your degree over an extended time period.You will also find many advanced degrees offered through online courses. It is not uncommon to discover that it is possible to get a masters degree, a PhD, a law degree and all types of highly advanced and respected degrees through online courses. Online doctoral degrees have really grown in popularity recently. This means you no longer have an excuse for not furthering yourself and your life, your job and the amount of money you can earn.The world of online courses is already extremely large and it’s growing by the day. New programs are continuing to popup and larger numbers of students are signing on. With so many advantages over conventional schooling and such a large range of courses available, it’s not hard to understand why. So what is holding you back? With some quick research there is sure to be an online program that suits you perfectly.
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Online Education – The Golden Opportunity You Have Been Looking For! (We Explain Why)
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on August 17th, 2009
Whether you are searching for month long certificate courses or full accredited bachelors and doctoral degrees, you’ll soon discover that is possible to do them via online courses! Many people are changing their lives through the use of online education courses, and if you need flexibility and quality eduction, you no longer have to go to a regular university. But what type of online courses are available to you and why should you consider pursuing an online education?
To begin with, you’ll discover that there are a huge number of online courses that are out there waiting for you. There are many colleges offering courses such as accredited bachelors degree courses online complete with simple online enrollment. There are universities that exist wholly online, as well as smaller online education providers that will offer you short certificate type courses that enable you to quickly gain the skills you need to improve your career.Why Go With an Online Education?
What are the advantages of earning your education online? The first thing that instantly comes to mind is the flexibility and convenience. Rather than commuting to a location, day after day, wasting valuable time traveling, you are able to study from the comfort of your own home. As long as you have a fast Internet connection and a reliable computer, you will be able to enroll and excel as you undertake your online education.
Another benefit is that your online subjects can be completed whenever it suits you. You don’t need to stress about missing a lecture or having to rearrange your schedule. This is extremely important if you have a family or a full time job, working around the rigid timetable required by traditional schooling can be a problem, but this is no longer an issue as online programs allow you to log in and access your class material whenever you please!
Even though you might have dreamed about it, it is not practical to think you would be able to go to university, quit your current job or stop taking care of your family in order to further your education. however online education courses will give you more free time to complete your work, and when you get a free moment to fit a lesson in, it will be ready and waiting for you.What Type of Courses Can You Complete Online?
As time progresses, there are an increasing number of online subjects being developed. There are the very basic and straightforward courses that show you how to take an exam or that will improve your skills for basic practices in your current workplace. These programs will only last a short amount of time, sometimes no more than a few weeks or a couple of months.
There are many topics that are covered in this way. You may find yourself looking at a class teaching software programs for subjects like building, science or interior design. With these types of courses, you get an immediate skill boost, which can be very satisfying while earning you more from work colleagues and better paying jobs.
Have you ever wanted to go back and finish your bachelor’s degree or to even get one started? There are courses available that enable you to complete an entire bachelor’s degree online within two years. If you don’t care for the high speed approach, you also have the flexibility to complete your degree as slowly as you like. It is completely up to you.
There are a number of online institutions out there that offer masters degrees, PhDs, law degrees and other high end educational programs. These programs are great, fully accredited and very well respected throughout the academic community.
These online programs are fully interactive with professors as well as other students providing the perfect environment to learn online. These are great institutions, and you will find that they can help you substantially increase you knowledge and qualifications. No matter what you want to learn or how much money you have, online education something your should look into.
The scope of online education is already extremely large and is growing by the day. New programs are being created and larger numbers of students are enrolling. With so many advantages and such a huge range of programs available, it’s clear to understand why. So what are you waiting for? With some quick research there is sure to be an online program that suits you perfectly.
Online Education Degree – 7 Things You Must Do Right to Succeed
Posted by admin in Educational Articles on August 14th, 2009
The ability to obtain an online education degree has opened the educational doors for many students who cannot afford to attend school on campus as a full-time student. Distance learning courses definitely provide some advantages over the traditional college education. But, because of the methods of delivering and receiving the material, students must consider the 7 things necessary in approaching an online education successfully.
1. Choosing the best education online institution – Make sure the institute for higher education chosen has adequate resources and accreditation recognized by the proper authorities. Unless authenticity can be verified, find another school. Sadly, unscrupulous degree mills offer degrees with short-term or no real education. Thus, the diplomas are bogus and absolutely worthless. Find a school that provides solid education, ample student support, and the facilities necessary to succeed in your distance learning.
2. Evaluate the cost and benefits – Generally, obtaining an online education is a costly venture. Most people do not realize the cost is often more than a traditional education. So, it is important to evaluate the desired online education degree, and determine whether the benefit of future income opportunities will offer the reward for gaining an online degree.
3. How do employers view an online education degree? – There are many instances where employers were skeptical about the legitimacy of online education degrees. With so many “diploma mills” out there, it’s warranted for employers to be cautious. Although an online education degree might be legit, it would be very helpful to the employer if you provided the type of accreditation your college has beforehand to avoid any misunderstanding. By letting the employer know in advance that your institution was accredited by an institution that is recognized by CHEA and US department of Education, you will be a step ahead in qualifying for that dream job.
4. Discipline, determination, and time – First time distance learning students are often surprised by the amount of discipline necessary to stay on task and complete the online assignment. It takes unfaltering determination to achieve an online education. In addition, without regularly scheduled classes, it is essential to exercise good time management skills. To keep focused, without the physical presence of educator and peers, it is important to establish communication with other students to have another push toward success in your education degree online
5. Utilize all the facilities provided – Online courses generally provide online lectures and email correspondence to ensure a means of communication with instructors, tutors, and fellow students. Take advantage of every opportunity to utilize these resources of motivation and encouragement, as well as establish a sense of connection with the college or university.
6. Make use of credit transfers – Many online education degree colleges allow students to transfer their credits from courses they took in previous colleges, whether online or traditional. By doing this, it means students don’t have to repeat courses they learnt before. For this to be effected, it’s important for a student who intends to pursue an education online to make sure they get transcripts and results from their previous universities or colleges and make them available to their accredited online college so they can be passed as transfer credits.
7. Make use of the educational technology – Accredited online universities offer a plethora of opportunities for doing necessary research and other facilities to ensure adequate completion of the course. Normally, the cost of virtual libraries, the programs to access online lectures, and even student online access and e-mail accounts are factored into the cost of the course. Therefore, it only makes sense to use all the technology available to make the most of the educational opportunity in achieving an online education degree.
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