Lawyers
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Lawyers
Many career choices exist for lawyers, ranging from courtroom prosecutors and defenders to house counsel for corporations. The career education information presented here will help you learn more about career paths in law, the job outlook, the education required, and the career opportunities.
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Lawyers
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Lawyers
Many career choices exist for lawyers, ranging from courtroom prosecutors and defenders to house counsel for corporations. The career education information presented here will help you learn more about career paths in law, the job outlook, the education required, and the career opportunities.
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Learn more in the career education information listed below:
- Job Description
- Employment
- Job Outlook
- Related Occupations
- Working Conditions
- Education, Training & Qualifications
- Salary Expectations
- Associations, Resources & Accreditation
Overview
- Formal educational requirements for lawyers include a 4-year college degree, 3 years in law school, and successful completion of a written bar examination.
- Competition for admission to most law schools is intense.
Job Description
The legal system affects nearly every aspect of our society, from buying a home to crossing the street. Lawyers form the backbone of this vital system, linking it to society in myriad ways. For this reason, they hold positions of great responsibility and are obligated to adhere to a strict code of ethics.
Lawyers, also called attorneys, act both as advocates and advisors in our society. As advocates, they represent one of the parties in criminal and civil trials by presenting evidence and arguing in court to support their client. As advisors, lawyers counsel their clients concerning their legal rights and obligations, and suggest particular courses of action in business and personal matters. Whether acting as an advocate or advisor, all attorneys research the intent of laws and judicial decisions and apply the law to the specific circumstances faced by their client.
The more detailed aspects of a lawyer's job depend upon his or her field of specialization and position. While all lawyers are licensed to represent parties in court, some appear in court more frequently than others. Trial lawyers, who specialize in trial work, must be able to think quickly and speak with ease and authority. In addition, familiarity with courtroom rules and strategy are particularly important in trial work. Still, trial lawyers spend the majority of their time outside the courtroom conducting research, interviewing clients and witnesses, and handling other details in preparation for trial.
Lawyers may specialize in a number of different areas, such as bankruptcy, probate, international, or elder law. Those specializing in environmental law, for example, may represent public interest groups, waste disposal companies, or construction firms in their dealings with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other Federal and State agencies. They help clients prepare and file for licenses and applications for approval before certain activities may occur. In addition, they represent clients' interests in administrative adjudications.
Some lawyers concentrate in the growing field of intellectual property. These lawyers help protect clients' claims to copyrights, art work under contract, product designs, and computer programs. Still other lawyers advise insurance companies about the legality of insurance transactions. They write insurance policies to conform with the law and to protect companies from unwarranted claims. When claims are filed against insurance companies, they review the claims and represent the companies in court.
The majority of lawyers are found in private practice, where they concentrate on criminal or civil law. In criminal law, lawyers represent individuals who have been charged with crimes and argue their cases in courts of law. Attorneys dealing with civil law assist clients with litigation, wills, trusts, contracts, mortgages, titles, and leases. Other lawyers handle only public interest cases - civil or criminal - which may have an impact extending well beyond the individual client.
Lawyers are sometimes employed full time by a single client. If the client is a corporation, the lawyer is known as "house counsel," and usually advises the company concerning legal issues related to its business activities. These issues might involve patents, government regulations, contracts with other companies, property interests, or collective bargaining agreements with unions.
A significant number of attorneys are employed at the various levels of government. Lawyers who work for State attorneys general, prosecutors, public defenders, and courts play a key role in the criminal justice system. At the Federal level, attorneys investigate cases for the U.S. Department of Justice and other agencies. Government lawyers also help develop programs, draft and interpret laws and legislation, establish enforcement procedures, and argue civil and criminal cases on behalf of the government.
Other lawyers work for legal-aid societies - private, nonprofit organizations established to serve disadvantaged people. These lawyers generally handle civil, rather than criminal, cases. A relatively small number of trained attorneys work in law schools. Most are faculty members who specialize in one or more subjects; however, some serve as administrators. Others work full time in nonacademic settings and teach part time.
Lawyers increasingly use various forms of technology to perform their varied tasks more efficiently. While all lawyers continue to use law libraries to prepare cases, some supplement their search of conventional printed sources with computer sources, such as the Internet and legal databases. Software is used to search this legal literature automatically and to identify legal texts relevant to a specific case. In litigation involving many supporting documents, lawyers may use computers to organize and index material. Lawyers also use electronic filing, videoconferencing, and voice-recognition technology to more effectively share information with other parties involved in a case.
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Working Conditions
Lawyers do most of their work in offices, law libraries, and courtrooms. They sometimes meet in clients' homes or places of business and, when necessary, in hospitals or prisons. They may travel to attend meetings, gather evidence, and appear before courts, legislative bodies, and other authorities.
Salaried lawyers usually have structured work schedules. Lawyers in private practice may work irregular hours while conducting research, conferring with clients, or preparing briefs during nonoffice hours. Lawyers often work long hours, and about half regularly work 40 hours or more per week. They may face particularly heavy pressure, especially when a case is being tried. Preparation for court includes keeping abreast of the latest laws and judicial decisions.
Although legal work generally is not seasonal, the work of tax lawyers and other specialists may be an exception. Because lawyers in private practice often can determine their own workload and time at which they will retire, many stay in practice well beyond the usual retirement age.
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Employment
Lawyers held about 681,000 jobs in 2000. About 3 out of 4 lawyers practiced privately, either in law firms or in solo practices. Most of the remaining lawyers held positions in government, the greatest number at the local level. In the Federal Government, lawyers work for many different agencies but are concentrated in the Departments of Justice, Treasury, and Defense. A small number of lawyers are employed as house counsel by public utilities, banks, insurance companies, real estate agencies, manufacturing firms, welfare and religious organizations, and other business firms and nonprofit organizations. Some salaried lawyers also have part-time independent practices; others work as lawyers part time while working full time in another occupation.
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Education, Training & Qualifications
To practice law in the courts of any State or other jurisdiction, a person must be licensed, or admitted to its bar, under rules established by the jurisdiction's highest court. All States require that applicants for admission to the bar pass a written bar examination; most jurisdictions also require applicants to pass a separate written ethics examination. Lawyers who have been admitted to the bar in one jurisdiction occasionally may be admitted to the bar in another without taking an examination, if they meet the latter jurisdiction's standards of good moral character and have a specified period of legal experience. Federal courts and agencies set their own qualifications for those practicing before them.
To qualify for the bar examination in most States, an applicant usually must obtain a college degree and graduate from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or the proper State authorities. ABA accreditation signifies that the law school - particularly its library and faculty - meets certain standards developed to promote quality legal education. ABA currently accredits 185 law schools; others are approved by State authorities only. With certain exceptions, graduates of schools not approved by the ABA are restricted to taking the bar examination and practicing in the State or other jurisdiction in which the school is located; most of these schools are in California. In 2000, six States accepted the study of law in a law office as qualification for taking the bar examination; only California accepts the study of law by correspondence. Several States require registration and approval of students by the State Board of Law Examiners, either before the students enter law school or during the early years of legal study.
Although there is no nationwide bar examination, 48 States, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands require the 6-hour Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) as part of the bar examination; the MBE is not required in Louisiana and Washington. The MBE covers issues of broad interest and is sometimes given in addition to a locally prepared State bar examination. The 3-hour Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) is used as part of the State bar examination in several States. States vary in their use of MBE and MEE scores.
Many states have begun to require Multistate Performance Testing (MPT) to test the practical skills of beginning lawyers. This program has been well received, and many more States are expected to require performance testing in the future. Requirements vary by State, although the test usually is taken at the same time as the bar exam and is a one-time requirement.
The required college and law school education usually takes 7 years of full-time study after high school - 4 years of undergraduate study followed by 3 years of law school. Law school applicants must have a bachelor's degree to qualify for admission. To meet the needs of students who can attend only part time, a number of law schools have night or part-time divisions, which usually require 4 years of study; about 1 in 10 graduates from ABA-approved schools attends part time.
Although there is no recommended "prelaw" major, prospective lawyers should develop proficiency in writing and speaking, reading, researching, analyzing, and thinking logically - skills needed to succeed both in law school and in the profession. Regardless of major, a multidisciplinary background is recommended. Courses in English, foreign languages, public speaking, government, philosophy, history, economics, mathematics, and computer science, among others, are useful. Students interested in a particular aspect of law may find related courses helpful. For example, prospective patent lawyers need a strong background in engineering or science, and future tax lawyers must have extensive knowledge of accounting.
Acceptance by most law schools depends on the applicant's ability to demonstrate an aptitude for the study of law, usually through good undergraduate grades, the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), the quality of the applicant's undergraduate school, any prior work experience, and, sometimes, a personal interview. However, law schools vary in the weight they place on each of these and other factors.
All law schools approved by the ABA, except for those in Puerto Rico, require applicants to take the LSAT. Nearly all law schools require applicants to have certified transcripts sent to the Law School Data Assembly Service, which then sends applicants' LSAT scores and their standardized records of college grades to the law schools of their choice. Both this service and the LSAT are administered by the Law School Admission Council.
Competition for admission to many law schools is intense, especially for the most prestigious schools. Enrollments in these schools rose very rapidly during the 1970s, as applicants far outnumbered available seats. Although the overall number of law school applicants decreased markedly in the 1990s, the number of applicants to most law schools still greatly exceeds the number that can be admitted.
During the first year or year-and-a-half of law school, students usually study core courses such as constitutional law, contracts, property law, torts, civil procedure, and legal writing. In the remaining time, they may elect specialized courses in fields such as tax, labor, or corporate law. Law students often acquire practical experience by participation in school-sponsored legal clinic activities; in the school's moot court competitions, in which students conduct appellate arguments; in practice trials under the supervision of experienced lawyers and judges; and through research and writing on legal issues for the school's law journal.
A number of law schools have clinical programs in which students gain legal experience through practice trials and projects under the supervision of practicing lawyers and law school faculty. Law school clinical programs might include work in legal aid clinics, for example, or on the staff of legislative committees. Part-time or summer clerkships in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments also provide valuable experience. Such training can lead directly to a job after graduation and can help students decide what kind of practice best suits them. Clerkships may also be an important source of financial aid.
In 1999, law students in 52 jurisdictions were required to pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE), which tests their knowledge of the ABA codes on professional responsibility and judicial conduct. In some States, the MPRE may be taken during law school, usually after completing a course on legal ethics.
Law school graduates receive the degree of juris doctor (J.D.) as the first professional degree. Advanced law degrees may be desirable for those planning to specialize, research, or teach. Some law students pursue joint degree programs, which usually require an additional semester or year. Joint degree programs are offered in a number of areas, including law and business administration or public administration.
After graduation, lawyers must keep informed about legal and nonlegal developments that affect their practice. Currently, 39 States and jurisdictions mandate Continuing Legal Education (CLE). Many law schools and State and local bar associations provide continuing education courses that help lawyers stay abreast of recent developments. Some States allow CLE credits to be obtained through participation in seminars on the Internet.
The practice of law involves a great deal of responsibility. Individuals planning careers in law should like to work with people and be able to win the respect and confidence of their clients, associates, and the public. Perseverance, creativity, and reasoning ability also are essential to lawyers, who often analyze complex cases and handle new and unique legal problems.
Most beginning lawyers start in salaried positions. Newly hired, salaried attorneys usually start as associates and work with more experienced lawyers or judges. After several years of gaining more responsibilities, some lawyers are admitted to partnership in their firm or go into practice for themselves. Others become full-time law school faculty or administrators; a growing number of these lawyers have advanced degrees in other fields as well.
Some attorneys use their legal training in administrative or managerial positions in various departments of large corporations. A transfer from a corporation's legal department to another department often is viewed as a way to gain administrative experience and rise in the ranks of management.
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Job Outlook
Employment of lawyers is expected to grow about as fast as the average through 2010. Continuing demand will result primarily from growth in the population and in the general level of business activities. Demand also will be spurred by growth of legal action in such areas as healthcare, intellectual property, international law, elder law, environmental law, and sexual harassment. In addition, the wider availability and affordability of legal clinics and prepaid legal service programs should result in increased use of legal services by middle-income people.
Demand will be somewhat mitigated because, in an effort to reduce the money spent on legal fees, many businesses increasingly are using large accounting firms and paralegals to perform some of the same functions that lawyers do. For example, accounting firms may provide employee-benefit counseling, process documents, or handle various other services previously performed by the law firm. Also, mediation and dispute resolution increasingly are used as alternatives to litigation.
Competition for job openings should continue to be keen because of the large number of students graduating from law school each year. Graduates with superior academic records from well-regarded law schools will have the best job opportunities. Perhaps as a result of job competition for attorney positions, lawyers are increasingly finding work in nontraditional areas for which legal training is an asset, but not normally a requirement - for example, administrative, managerial, and business positions in banks, insurance firms, real estate companies, government agencies, and other organizations. Employment opportunities are expected to continue to arise in these organizations at a growing rate.
As in the past, some graduates may have to accept positions in areas outside of their field of interest or for which they feel overqualified. Some recent law school graduates who have been unable to find permanent positions are turning to the growing number of temporary staffing firms that place attorneys in short-term jobs until they are able to secure full-time positions. This service allows companies to hire lawyers on an "as needed" basis and permits beginning lawyers to develop practical skills while looking for permanent positions.
Due to the competition for jobs, a law graduate's geographic mobility and work experience assume greater importance. The willingness to relocate may be an advantage in getting a job but, to be licensed in another State, a lawyer may have to take an additional State bar examination. In addition, employers increasingly seek graduates who have advanced law degrees and experience in a specialty such as tax, patent, or admiralty law.
Employment growth for lawyers will continue to be concentrated in salaried jobs, as businesses and all levels of government employ a growing number of staff attorneys, and as employment in the legal services industry grows in larger law firms. Most salaried positions are in urban areas where government agencies, law firms, and big corporations are concentrated. The number of self-employed lawyers is expected to decrease slowly, reflecting the difficulty of establishing a profitable new practice in the face of competition from larger, established law firms. Moreover, the growing complexity of law, which encourages specialization, along with the cost of maintaining up-to-date legal research materials, favors larger firms.
For lawyers who wish to work independently, establishing a new practice will probably be easiest in small towns and expanding suburban areas. In such communities, competition from larger established law firms is likely to be less keen than in big cities, and new lawyers may find it easier to become known to potential clients.
Some lawyers are adversely affected by cyclical swings in the economy. During recessions, the demand declines for some discretionary legal services, such as planning estates, drafting wills, and handling real estate transactions. Also, corporations are less likely to litigate cases when declining sales and profits result in budgetary restrictions. Some corporations and law firms will not hire new attorneys until business improves and may even cut staff to contain costs. Several factors, however, mitigate the overall impact of recessions on lawyers. During recessions, for example, individuals and corporations face other legal problems, such as bankruptcies, foreclosures, and divorces requiring legal action.
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Salary Expectations
In 2000, the median annual earnings of all lawyers was $88,280. The middle half of the occupation earned between $60,700 and $130,170. The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $44,590; at least 10 percent earned more than $145,600. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of lawyers in 2000 are shown below:
- Legal services $96,610
- Federal government 87,080
- Fire, marine, and casualty insurance 82,170
- Local Government 66,280
- State Government 64,190
Salaries of experienced attorneys vary widely according to the type, size, and location of their employer. Lawyers who own their own practices usually earn less than do those who are partners in law firms. Lawyers starting their own practice may need to work part time in other occupations to supplement their income until their practice is well established.
Most salaried lawyers are provided health and life insurance, and contributions are made on their behalf to retirement plans. Lawyers who practice independently are covered only if they arrange and pay for such benefits themselves.
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Related Occupations
Legal training is necessary in many other occupations. Some of these are paralegal and legal assistant; law clerk; title examiner, abstractor, and searcher; arbitrator, mediator, and conciliator; judge, magistrate judge, and magistrate; and administrative law judge, adjudicator, and hearing officer.
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Associations, Resources & Accreditation
Information on law schools and a career in law may be obtained from:
Information on the LSAT, the Law School Data Assembly Service, the law school application process, and the financial aid available for law students may be obtained from:
- Law School Admission Council
Information on obtaining a job as a lawyer with the Federal Government is available from the Office of Personnel Management through a telephone-based system. Consult your telephone directory under U.S. Government for a local number or call (912) 757-3000; Federal Relay Service: (800) 877-8339. The first number is not toll free, and charges may result.
The requirements for admission to the bar in a particular State or other jurisdiction also may be obtained at the State capital, from the clerk of the Supreme Court or the administrator of the State Board of Bar Examiners.
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Source:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2002-03 Edition, Lawyers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/
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Virginia College
Earn your associate's, bachelor's or master's degree from Virginia College. Our extensive programs are offered 100% online, so you can launch the career of your choice from the comfort of your own home.
Learn more about programs at Virginia College.
Designed for entry-level accounting and business professionals, this associate degree program prepares you for jobs such as:
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You will gain a comprehensive understanding of management principles and business–oriented computer and interpersonal skills. Course work includes fundamentals of business, management and finance, critical thinking, project planning and implementation, and communication.
With your associate degree, you will be able to seek employment in basic management and administrative roles, including office manager, administrative assistant, management trainee, project assistant, or office support specialist.
Designed to meet the needs of working professionals, VC Online's criminal justice program is intended for current and aspiring professionals in the field--or anyone who wants to make their community safer.
Virginia Colleges associate degree in Culinary Arts is designed for students who already have formal training in culinary skills at a post-secondary level but who want an associate degree and a broader skill base in order to increase opportunities for employment and advancement. The program offers a broad, practical curriculum and real-world instruction using convenient, on-line classes that give students the education they need for a successful career in the culinary arts.
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In VC Online's associate degree program in HR management, you'll study the complexities and challenges of workforce management in today's global economy. Learn how to promote professional development not only among company-wide personnel, but among your fellow human resources specialists.
What do Medical Office Administration graduates do?
Medical Office Administrators perform administrative duties in a medical office or clinic, reporting directly to an office manager, physician, or other health practitioner. You will help with communicating with patients and other providers, billing insurance companies, code physician diagnostic comments and orders, and more. This program is designed to teach you how to work closely with doctors to organize and monitor patient care services. In short, you will be a vital part of the health care team in a physician's office, a clinic, a hospital, a long–term care facility, or other medical office.
What classes will I take?
At Virginia College, you will only take courses that pertain to your success in the workforce. Do not worry if you are not already skilled in the areas below. That is why you are coming to school! We are experienced in giving students the training they need to become successful in their chosen careers.
You will have classes in:
Medical terminology
Medical law and ethics
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In addition to training from instructors with real–world experience, you will also complete an externship in a physician's office, clinic or related health care facility under the supervision of a physician, nurse, or health services professional.
Looking for a paralegal studies program that fits into your busy schedule? In VC Online's associate degree program, you'll work with industry-experienced faculty--from the comfort of your own computer.
In today's marketplace, the bachelor's degree has become the minimum requirement for many professional careers. The online BA in Business Management is intended to produce skilled graduates who can perform a variety of leadership functions in nearly any business sector.
Looking for a new or better criminal justice job? VC Online's BS in criminal justice can prepare you to become a:
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Criminal Justice in Homeland Security program at Virginia College, trains students in critical–thinking and program–management, and leadership skills needed within homeland security, an understanding of its history, domestic crime, substantive & procedural law within the criminal justice system, current homeland security policies, operational theories, functions and issues from domestic perspectives, and the ethical, political, social, environmental and economic issues related criminal investigations. Students will be able to differentiate the various threats to domestic security (including technological and political forms of terrorism) and the various phases of intelligence operations.
This program prepares students for potential careers in U.S. Border Patrol agents, Immigration inspectors, Customs inspectors, Federal Air Marshals, U.S. Secret Service special agents and U.S. Secret Service. Secret Service special agents also investigate counterfeiting, forgery of Government checks or bonds, and fraudulent use of credit cards.
This online Bachelor of Science degree in Golf Course Management is designed to provide students with a diversified education in managing and operating a golf course, or other golf-related facilities. The program is designed for those who have completed the fundamentals in an associate degree program* and would like to add the skills and knowledge needed to give them a solid background in business and management. Students will gain critical thinking skills, management training, and leadership development. This comprehensive program provides graduates with the fundamental skills necessary to adapt to the golf management path they choose to follow.
Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to
_ evaluate the golf management industry and career opportunities in the field;
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supplies;
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*Note: This program is offered in the online format but to qualify for admission, candidates must have completed an associate of applied business degree in golf complex operations and management comparable to the one offered by Golf Academy of America. Prospective students should speak with an Admissions Associate to determine acceptability of earned credits or degrees.
The online BS in Health Services Management program is designed for current and aspiring healthcare professionals. With this degree, you may qualify for jobs in hospitals, physicians' offices, ambulatory care centers, home health agencies, and more.
Human resource management majors gain the flexibility to apply their skills in a variety of management settings. While enrolled in this program of study, you will focus on the various aspects of the recruitment, selection, training, and development of employees within an organization. After graduating from this program, you can expect to be qualified to enter entry-level positions within a human resource department. The core classes in human resource management-related fields are complemented by general education offerings that add breadth and depth to the curriculum.
Upon successful completion of this program, you should be able to
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The online BS in Management Information Systems addresses core concepts in business information systems and helps you develop essential management skills. Prepare for a rewarding, fast-growing career in the management and design of computer-based information systems.
The online bachelor's degree in cybersecurity offers a comprehensive introduction to IT infrastructure Security. You'll study the most common issues in computer security, including:
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The online bachelor?s degree in paralegal studies prepares graduates for employment in attorney?s offices, courtrooms, corporations, insurance companies, governmental offices and banks. This paralegal degree online provides knowledge of legal office procedures, delivery of legal services, legal research and writing and paralegal training in professional skills, general education, and technical competencies.
With the online paralegal degree from Virginia College, you can enter a skilled and prestigious profession, and one in which job growth is expected. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2006-07 Occupational Outlook Handbook, paralegal employment is projected to grow much faster than average, as employers reduce costs by hiring paralegals to perform tasks formerly carried out by lawyers.
This online bachelor degree program in paralegal studies is designed for those who require a degree for entry into the workforce or for advancement in a current position. It is especially helpful for those who may have accumulated credits toward a paralegal degree or who may already hold an associate?s degree in paralegal studies.
Complete the info request form and find out more about Virginia College?s online paralegal degree. Virginia College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Our faculty and staff are available to make sure you get the most from your online college experience at Virginia College.
Looking for a job in the fast-growing accounting industry? Graduates of VC Online's Bachelor of Science in Private Sector Accounting will be qualified for private-industry jobs in financial, cost, or budget accounting.
VC Online's MBA combines management theory with hands-on experience to make you more attractive in today's job market. This broad-based graduate program prepares you for leadership positions in the field of your choice.
The online Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ) is designed for the busy criminal justice professional who seeks a career boost. Prepare for leadership positions in the courthouse, the police force, private security, corrections, parole and more.
Study computer security, cyber-terrorism, forensics and more in VC Online's Master of Science in Cybersecurity. With this degree, you'll be prepared to handle the security management of LAN, WLAN, and WAN environments--even at the national security level.
Virginia College is a senior college accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools to award certificates, diplomas, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
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Bryant & Stratton College - Online
Develop the skills you need to reach your goals at Bryant & Stratton College. We offer career-focused degrees in a number of today's fastest-growing fields. Study online or in small classes, and get a quality education that fits into your busy life.
Learn more about programs at Bryant & Stratton College - Online.
The Accounting program at Bryant & Stratton College provides the technical and critical skills needed to excel in the field of accounting. Following graduation, our students are ready to enter such fields as general ledger accounting, managerial accounting, and tax preparation. Entry-level positions may be found in the manufacturing, retail and service industries as well as the government sector. Some typical jobs in accounting include (national salary averages from salary.com): Accountant I ($36,784 - $44,765), Accountant II ($43,715 - $54,405), Tax Accountant ($41,164 - $51,492).
The Administrative Assistant program trains students to meet the many challenges of the electronic office. Students develop specialized knowledge in automated office equipment, word processing, office systems, accounting, and administrative skills. Graduates will be able to acquire positions as administrative support personnel in high-tech offices. Alumni of this program will function in jobs that require the selection, application, and analysis of data within computerized office systems.
Develop a broad range of skills in management, critical thinking, human relations, and information technology – indispensable assets in the modern business environment. Graduates of this program will be equipped to pursue several career fields including: management trainee, service or sales representative, and supervisor or department manager in a variety of business fields. Some typical jobs in business include (national salary averages from salary.com): Media Coordinator ($27,461 - $32,096), Buyer I ($37,580 - $47,587), Advertising Coordinator ($40,359 - $57,476).
Graduates of the unique Bachelor of Business Administration program will develop the problem-solving, strategic planning, communication, and technology application skills needed to meet operational demands and resolve contemporary business problems. Through exposure to active learning techniques, practical application of research methods, team projects, presentations, and a capstone project, students will be prepared not only for the challenges of management positions, but also for a life of continued learning - both at work and in their private lives. Some typical jobs for BBA – General Management include (national salary averages from salary.com): Media Buyer ($45,290 - $63,489), Account Executive ($49,719 - $72,299), Benefits Manager ($66,684 - $94,499).
Students study the Criminal Justice administrative structure, which includes analysis of international, federal, state and local agencies involved directly and indirectly in Criminal Justice. Students also examine the concept of crime through the study of varied criminal activity that occurs in today’s society. Graduates of the program are prepared for employment in positions that include: Police/Detective, Manager of police/detectives, First-line supervisor, Fish and Game wardens, Border agent, Homeland Security agent, Social worker, Social/human service assistant, Counselor, Parole officer, probation officer, and Correctional Treatment Specialist. Some typical jobs for criminal justice include (national salary averages from salary.com): Parole Officer ($38,200 - $58,300), Safety Representative I ($30,900 - $59,300), Border Patrol Guard ($24,800 - $52,100).
The Bachelor of Science in Financial Services degree program will prepare you for an exciting degree in the financial industry in the fields of accounting, financial planning or financial service management. The curriculum was developed to meet the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc and the Academy of Financial Services standards. The Bachelor of Science in Financial Services program outcomes were created in association with input from major banks, brokerage firms, accounting firms, credit counseling organizations and insurance agencies. The emphasis of the program is personal financial planning, and students are eligible to sit for the CFP? Certification Exam.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science Financial Services program will be able to: Analyze and apply contemporary knowledge and skills in the financial services sector. Demonstrate strategic and tactical financial planning abilities. Analyze and evaluate client cases to prepare solutions that meet immediate need and long term goals. Use legal and ethical principles to analyze and apply practices to preserve wealth. Meet eligibility requirements for the rigorous multi-part CFP? Exam. Employ information literacy skills through the effective use of technology and information resources to accomplish a goal. Pursue new learning opportunities within their community and career for personal and professional growth. Develop thinking processes and utilize learning strategies to understand their metacognative abilities. Transfer knowledge from life lessons and formal instruction to new situations as evidence of relational learning Demonstrate proficient mathematical and communication (written and oral) skills as required in the workplace.
Personal Financial Planning is one of the most lucrative and rapidly expanding professions. Much of the growth is attributable to the maturation of the Baby Boomers population; those entering their peak earning years and needing assistance to effectively manage and protect wealth. To prepare for this profession, the program requires students to take business, accounting, and finance courses in addition to the essential liberal arts course series required for career success and mobility. Students in this program will also develop knowledge, skills and competency in estate planning, investments, insurance, tax, retirement planning, and employee benefits planning as part of this specialized degree program. Some typical jobs for finance include (national salary averages from salary.com): Cash Flow Analyst ($36,027 - $44,757), Retirement (IRA) Specialist ($32,356 - 55,340), Claims Adjuster ($39,583 - $50,144).
The Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration program is designed to prepare graduates for entry-level and assistant management positions in medical settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing care facilities, doctors? offices, and insurance companies. Health services administrators are often responsible for creating and implementing policy and procedures, hiring and supervising staff, controlling finances, ordering supplies, and coordinating plans and activities with those of other health care managers.
The central focus of the program is to provide a comprehensive base in health-related knowledge and concepts and as well as the management of health services and facilities, with emphases on finance, legal aspects in healthcare, disaster planning and management, and information systems. The Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration program prepares students to excel in decision-making skills, critical thinking, and small group communications.
Research opportunities and field experiences offer students insight into real-world applications of the information and skills they learn in class and help students prepare to successfully transition into a health care administration or management career.
This comprehensive Human Resources Specialist program prepares students for a variety of positions in Human Resources, including staff recruitment, compensation and benefits, payroll, evaluation, and training. Each student in this program can select specialization areas in compensation and benefits, payroll administration, or they can choose to become generalists in Human Resources. Graduates of this program will also have a solid business foundation with a focus on business administration techniques, critical thinking, decision making, communication skills, and information technology skills. Some typical jobs in human resources specialist include (national salary averages from salary.com): Benefits Clerk ($29,156 - $40,162), HR Assistant I ($28,995 - $36,764), HR Assistant II ($32,191 - $40,363).
The Interactive Media Design program prepares students for careers involving electronic media products and focusing on marketing and design. Interactive Media Design is a field of study that integrates the elements of audio, video, still images, animation, text, and data for the delivery of interactive content either through multimedia devices or the Internet. The Interactive Media Design program will produce graduates who are prepared for entry-level positions with service bureaus, multimedia design and production companies, advertising design firms, corporate training developers, and companies specializing in electronic publication and Web design. Graduates of this program will have a solid background in interactive media design and imaging hardware and software. Through design projects and hands-on experience, they will develop a working knowledge of interactive media design and multimedia project authoring.
The Medical Administrative Assistant program offers specialized training in modern medical office procedures. Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level employment in private medical practices, outpatient departments, clinics, or government institutions. The program offers a foundation in keyboarding, document processing, and integrated office systems software programs with specialized training in medical billing, billing and coding, medical transcription, medical records, and modern medical office procedures. Graduates of this program will be able to apply coding, billing, records management, transcription and scheduling skills to administrative health care industry standards. Students study and practice the skills that will help them gain national billing certification from the American Billing Association (AMBA). Students can prepare for the national test through the Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS) boot camp that is offered along with this degree. Some typical jobs in the medical administrative assistant field include (national salary averages from salary.com): Medical Staff Coordinator ($38,193 - $50,389), Medical Transcription Supervisor ($43,656 - $55,317), Medical Records Administrator ($46,580 - $69,398).
The Medical Reimbursement and Coding (MRC) Program prepares students to sit for the national coding exams, or begin working in the coding and billing field. This unique program is formatted to specifically address, through core courses, a means to facilitate uniformity of terms, the structure and organization of the body systems, common disease processes, and common pharmacological treatments. The core courses provide students with a foundation on which they will complete the coding portion of this comprehensive program. After completing the mandatory core courses, students will have a choice of studying for Physician coding or Hospital/inpatient coding. While some coding professionals choose one type of coding based on their own interest and style, many coders are cross-credentialed and able to work in both arenas. The MRC Program prepares students with the information needed to choose one or both coding paths. Students will study and practice the skills that will help them gain national coding certification from either The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The comprehensive nature of the MRC Program fulfills all hourly criteria for both AHIMA and AAPC national certifying bodies. Students who successfully complete the MRC Program will be equipped to participate in the field of medical coding and reimbursement.
The Associates degree in Network Technology offers students a foundation of coursework and hands-on experiences with Network Systems commonly found in Business environments. In this program, students will discover how information systems support organizational success. Networking students will then move on to discover the technologies that make up the network infrastructures that allow for successful transfer and use of mission critical business information. Those in the Network Technology program will learn how to install, configure, secure, administer, and troubleshoot network systems. Students will also address managing users, shared resources, and various other network components like routers and switches in LANS, WANS, and wireless network environments. Some typical jobs for networking technology include (national salary averages from salary.com): Level I LAN Support ($37,949 - $42,498), Data Control Clerk I ($25,655 - $37,678), IT Asset Management Administrator ($33,364 - $68,488).
The Paralegal Studies program emphasizes practical hands-on applications and prepares students to analyze cases and to prepare legal forms and documents required in litigating law suits, prosecuting crimes, closing real estate transactions, and drafting documents used in custody, separation, and divorce proceedings. The program also emphasizes the ethical considerations for legal professionals as prescribed by the American Bar Association and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in private law firms or in other related occupations in government and legal departments of banks, corporations, insurance companies, accounting firms, and real estate development or property-management firms. Some typical jobs in paralegal studies include (national salary averages from salary.com): Court Reporter ($34,846 - $63,211), Paralegal I ($37,643 - $51,478), Paralegal II ($44,839 - $58,531).
The Associates degree in Security Technology offers students a foundation of coursework and hands-on experiences with business technology systems, and the security procedures and technologies used to secure those systems. In this program, students will discover how information systems are integral to organizational success. Security students will then move on to discover the technologies that comprise network infrastructures that allow for the successful transfer and use of mission critical business information. After discovering the makeup of Technology systems, Security students will move on to experience the technologies and procedures Technology professionals use to secure business systems and assets. Students will learn how to assess businesses for risk, develop effective policies and procedures to secure systems and respond to incidents and disasters. Students will also interact with the technologies used to secure and harden servers, network operating systems, and systems in general. Some typical jobs for security technology include (national salary averages from salary.com): Help Desk Support ($38,844 - $50,094), Database Analyst I ($30,325 - $63,951), Business Systems Analyst I ($38,682 - $55,719).
Bryant and Stratton College is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. This is a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation.
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Western Governor's University
At Western Governors University, your competence - the knowledge and skills you possess - is the ultimate focus of every degree program.
Learn more about programs at Western Governor's University.
Spanning from birth to age eight, this early childhood education program is appropriate for teaching candidates who need a bachelor?s degree, want to become a certified early childhood education teacher, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Early Childhood Education (Birth through Grade 3) prepares you for licensure to become an early childhood education teacher. The program provides you with the comprehensive groundwork, knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed for working with infants, toddlers, and young children from birth through age eight (or the third grade). Depending on state licensure options, this program leads to initial licensure in early childhood education, PK-3, K-3, etc., and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting.
This program is appropriate for teaching candidates who need a bachelor?s degree, want to become a certified elementary school teacher or middle school generalist, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-8) prepares you for licensure to become an elementary teacher or middle school generalist. The program teaches you the content knowledge and teaching skills to become a highly qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
Math teachers are in high demand! This program is ideal for someone who needs a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified middle school or high school math teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Mathematics (5-9 or 9-12) prepares you for secondary teacher licensure in middle school and high school mathematics. The program educates you to become a highly qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for master?s candidates who already have teaching licensure who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, wish to earn a secondary certification in biology, and advance their careers in this high-demand field. The M.A. in Science Education (5-12, Biological Sciences) prepares you for secondary science certification in biology. Graduates become better biology teachers and also develop sophisticated, graduate-level abilities in technology integration, instruction, measurement, and management and innovation. Earn more with a master?s degree in a high-demand field!
Chemistry teachers are in high demand! This program is ideal for someone who needs a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified high school chemistry teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Science (5-12, Chemistry) prepares you for secondary teacher licensure in high school chemistry. In this program, you?ll learn and develop the skills and knowledge in general science, advanced chemistry, and teaching methods you need to become a highly-qualified high school chemistry teacher. The program includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting and a home science lab. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for master?s candidates who already have teaching licensure who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, wish to earn a secondary certification in earth science, and advance their careers in this high-demand field. The M.A. in Science Education (5-12, Geosciences) prepares you for secondary science certification in earth science. Graduates become better earth science teachers and also develop sophisticated, graduate-level abilities in technology integration, instruction, measurement, and management and innovation. Earn more with a master?s degree in a high-demand field!
Physics teachers are in high demand! This program is ideal for someone who needs a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified high school physics teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Science (5-12, Physics) prepares you for secondary teacher licensure in high school physics. In this program, you?ll learn and develop the skills and knowledge in general science, advanced physics, and teaching methods you need to become a highly-qualified physics teacher. The program includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting and a home science lab. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
Science teachers are in high demand! This program is ideal for someone who needs a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified middle school science teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Science (5-9) prepares you for secondary teacher licensure in middle school science. In this program, you?ll learn and develop the skills and knowledge in general science and teaching methods you need to become a highly-qualified science teacher. The program includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting and a home science lab. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for teaching candidates seeking certification who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, wish to earn endorsement in special education, and begin their careers in this high-demand field. The B.A. in Special Education (PK-12) prepares you to effectively teach students with mild to moderate cross-categorical disabilities. Graduates become highly-qualified special education teachers. Scholarships are available to those who qualify.
Whether you want to advance your accounting career in a corporation, non-profit organization, or government entity, the Accounting program at WGU is an accredited and affordable education option. Through the program, you will get a broad education in general business skills as well as specialized training in cost accounting, tax accounting, auditing, and other critical areas. If you?re a self-motivated learner and can devote 15 to 20 hours a week to your studies, the WGU Accounting program is for you.
If you want to advance or enter a career in human resources, the Human Resource Management program at WGU is an accredited and affordable education option. Not only will this program prepare you to become an HR manager or personnel director in both the public and private sectors, it will also help you gain a valuable understanding of all aspects of this exciting career, including labor relations, occupational health, and strategic management. If you?re a self-motivated learner who wants to advance or enter a career in HR and can devote 15 to 20 hours a week to your studies, the WGU Human Resource Management program is for you.
When you want to incorporate your IT skills into a career in management, the Information Technology program at WGU is an accredited and affordable education option. Not only will you get the rigorous IT training you need, but you will get the communication and managerial skills you will need to manage both projects and personnel in customer service, data centers, tech support centers and more. If you?re a self-motivated learner who wants to advance your IT skills into management and can devote 15 to 20 hours a week to your studies, the WGU Information Technology Management program is for you.
Whether you want a management position in private business, a public corporation or the government, the B.S. Business Management program at WGU will prepare you with the business skills and knowledge you need. A perfect program for business managers or professionals who need their bachelor?s degree, this program is ideal for a self-motivated learner who can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
Become a unique asset in the world of health informatics and health information management. WGU?s B.S. in Health Informatics program combines concepts from healthcare, IT, and leadership practice to provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a valuable designer, developer, and manager of health information systems. This program is for experienced healthcare or IT professionals seeking an affordable bachelor?s degree and two IT certifications to work in this high-demand field.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates two IT certifications at an affordable cost: CompTIA A+ IT Technician and CIW Database Design Specialist (all certification fees are included in your tuition). This program has been designed to align with the American Health Information Management Association?s (AHIMA) curriculum competencies. You may be eligible to apply to sit for the AHIMA Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) credentialing exam upon completion of this program.
WGU is the recipient of the USDLA 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning for 2008, awarded in recognition of our success in expanding access to higher education. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? in the 11/13/08 issue of the periodical.
Build the foundation you need to succeed in the fast-growing IT industry. WGU?s B.S. in Information Technology program provides you with a solid foundation of IT skills that employers demand along with eight IT certifications. This program is ideal for someone who wants a broad IT education, the IT certifications to succeed, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates eight IT certifications including CompTIA, CIW, and MCTS at an affordable cost (all certification fees are included in your tuition). You?ll complete coursework in operating systems, networks, databases, software, security, and project management. This is a perfect program if you already hold relevant IT certifications as you can use them to accelerate your degree, saving you time and money.
WGU is the recipient of the USDLA 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning for 2008, awarded in recognition of our success in expanding access to higher education. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? in the 11/13/08 issue of the periodical.
Strengthen or develop your skills and career opportunities in database administration. WGU?s B.S. in Information Technology?Databases program provides you with the leading-edge database administration skills that employers demand along with nine IT certifications. This program is ideal for someone who has database administration experience, wants to specialize in database administration, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates nine IT certifications including the Oracle 10g Administrator Certified Associate (OCA) at an affordable cost (all certification fees are included in your tuition). You?ll also complete coursework in operating systems, networks, software, security, and project management. This is a perfect program if you already hold relevant IT certifications as you can use them to accelerate your degree, saving you time and money.
WGU is the recipient of the USDLA 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning for 2008, awarded in recognition of our success in expanding access to higher education. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? in the 11/13/08 issue of the periodical.
Become an expert IT security specialist. WGU?s B.S. in Information Technology?Security program provides you with the latest IT security management skills that employers demand along with nine IT certifications. This program is ideal for someone who has IT security management experience, wants to specialize in IT security, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates nine IT certifications including the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA?) Security Certification at an affordable cost (all certification fees are included in your tuition). You?ll also complete coursework in operating systems, networks, databases, software, and project management. This is a perfect program if you already hold relevant IT certifications as you can use them to accelerate your degree, saving you time and money.
WGU is a member institution of the Microsoft IT Academy, incorporating Microsoft training curriculum, coursework, and certifications into our challenging, competency-based IT degrees. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? and featured on NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams.
Take your software development career to the next level. WGU?s B.S. in Information Technology?Software program provides you with solution-drive software development skills that employers demand along with ten IT certifications. This program is ideal for someone who has software development experience, wants to specialize in software development, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates ten IT certifications including Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP) at an affordable cost (all certification fees are included in your tuition). You?ll also complete coursework in operating systems, networks, databases, security, and project management. This is a perfect program if you already hold relevant IT certifications as you can use them to accelerate your degree, saving you time and money.
WGU is the recipient of the USDLA 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning for 2008, awarded in recognition of our success in expanding access to higher education. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? in the 11/13/08 issue of the periodical.
If you?re looking to start or advance your career in marketing, the Marketing Management program at WGU is an accredited and affordable education option. By preparing you in a wide variety of expertise, including strategic marketing, product management, promotion, pricing, distribution, sales, and more, this program will help you qualify for the career you want in marketing, sales, publicity or promotion. If you?re a self-motivated learner and can devote 15 to 20 hours a week to your studies, the WGU Marketing Management program is for you.
Enhance your personal status, boost your salary, and increase your job security with WGU?s B.S. in Nursing. This program is for actively working registered nurses (RNs) who hold an associate?s degree or diploma in nursing, possess healthcare industry experience, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.Based on National League of Nursing (NLN) competency standards, the B.S. in Nursing prepares you to become a higher level nurse in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The program incorporates skills and knowledge beyond the clinical aspects of nursing, integrating patient education, health promotion, nursing roles and values, and technology, as well as healthcare systems and policies into the curriculum. This is a perfect program for RNs with associate?s degrees who want to advance their status and careers. WGU nursing programs are CCNE accredited.
Start or advance your career in network server administration. WGU?s B.S. in Information Technology?Network Server Administration program provides you with the leading-edge server administration skills that employers demand along with nine IT certifications. This program is ideal for someone who has network server administration experience, wants to specialize in network server administration, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates nine IT certifications including Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Server Administrator at an affordable cost (all certification fees are included in your tuition). You?ll also complete coursework in operating systems, databases, software, security, and project management. This is a perfect program if you already hold relevant IT certifications as you can use them to accelerate your degree, saving you time and money.
WGU is the recipient of the USDLA 21st Century Award for Best Practices in Distance Learning for 2008, awarded in recognition of our success in expanding access to higher education. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? in the 11/13/08 issue of the periodical.
Start or advance your career in networks design and management. WGU?s B.S. in Information Technology?Networks Design and Management program provides you with advanced network design, systems engineering, and management skills that employers demand along with nine IT certifications. This program is ideal for someone who has experience in networks design, wants to specialize in networks design or network systems engineering, and can devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies.
This flexible, accredited program incorporates nine IT certifications including the MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional) Enterprise Administrator at an affordable cost (all certification fees are included in your tuition). You?ll also complete coursework in operating systems, databases, software, security, and project management. This is a perfect program if you already hold relevant IT certifications as you can use them to accelerate your degree, saving you time and money.
WGU is a member institution of the Microsoft IT Academy, incorporating Microsoft training curriculum, coursework, and certifications into our challenging, competency-based IT degrees. WGU was also recognized by TIME Magazine as the ?best relatively cheap university you?ve never heard of? and featured on NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams.
WGU?s B.S. in Sales and Sales Management will give you a competitive advantage in the marketplace as it equips you with the tools, techniques, and knowledge to excel in your profession. This online program offers flexible scheduling and is ideal for the sales professional who already possesses sales experience, and wishes to move into management but needs a bachelor?s degree to do so. Students should expect to devote 20 or more hours per week to their studies. Two industry-recognized sales certifications are part of the curriculum: Action Selling Sales Skills Certification and CSE?--Certified Sales Executive. This program is well suited for people with at least one year of college completed.
This program is specifically designed for already-licensed, practicing teachers who already possess a master?s degree and want to become a school principal. If you can devote 20 or more hours per week to your studies, you?ll be prepared to serve as a highly effective, instruction-based, certified principal. You will learn, for example, how to design and implement effective, standards-based educational improvement plans.
This program is not an option for students in the following states: Hawaii, Minnesota, Connecticut, Michigan, Kansas, Oregon, Oklahoma, Ohio, North Carolina, Delaware, Wyoming, Mississippi, or Missouri.
This program is for master?s candidates who already have a teaching license and a bachelor?s degree, can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, wish to earn endorsement in English language learning (ELL) also known as English as a second language (ESL), and advance their careers in this high-demand field. The M.A. in English Language Learning prepares you to teach core subjects to non-English speakers. Graduates enhance their curricular development skills, teaching skills, and leadership abilities.
This program is not for those who want to learn to speak and write the English language, nor for those interested in becoming English teachers or teaching English in a foreign country.
The Education Media Design & Technology Master's Degree program tailors to creating and developing future leaders in the education and corporate training fields. This 12-month intensive program spans across several areas of technology, education, design, corporate training, and theoretical perspectives.
Whether your passion is in the k-12 setting as an educator, or a corporate trainer wanting to learn new strategies to engage your audience, this multi-faceted degree will provide a foundation necessary to meet the needs of the students and workers of today and tomorrow! This degree will give you hands on experience of creating, tailoring and implementing effective uses of technology in your workplace.
Biology teachers are in high demand! This program is ideal for someone who needs a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified high school biology teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Science (5-12, Biological Sciences) prepares you for secondary teacher licensure in high school biology. In this program, you?ll learn and develop the skills and knowledge in general science, advanced biology, and science teaching methods you need to become a highly-qualified biology teacher. The program includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting and a home science lab. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for master?s candidates who already have teaching licensure who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, wish to earn a secondary certification in chemistry, and advance their careers in this high-demand field. The M.A. in Science Education (5-12, Chemistry) prepares you for secondary science certification in chemistry. Graduates become better chemistry teachers and also develop sophisticated, graduate-level abilities in technology integration, instruction, measurement, and management and innovation. Earn more with a master?s degree in a high-demand field!
Earth science teachers are in high demand! This program is ideal for someone who needs a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified high school earth science teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The B.A. in Science (5-12, Geosciences) prepares you for secondary teacher licensure high school earth science. In this program, you?ll learn and develop the skills and knowledge in general science, advanced geoscience, and science teaching methods you need to become a highly-qualified earth science teacher. The program includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting and a home science lab. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for master?s candidates who already have teaching licensure who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, wish to earn a secondary certification in physics, and advance their careers in this high-demand field. The M.A. in Science Education (5-12, Physics) prepares you for secondary science certification in physics. Graduates become better physics teachers and also develop sophisticated, graduate-level abilities in technology integration, instruction, measurement, and management and innovation. Earn more with a master?s degree in a high-demand field!
The Education Media Design & Technology Master's Degree program tailors to creating and developing future leaders in the education and corporate training fields. This 12-month intensive program spans across several areas of technology, education, design, corporate training, and theoretical perspectives.
Whether your passion is in the k-12 setting as an educator, or a corporate trainer wanting to learn new strategies to engage your audience, this multi-faceted degree will provide a foundation necessary to meet the needs of the students and workers of today and tomorrow! This degree will give you hands on experience of creating, tailoring and implementing effective uses of technology in your workplace.
The Education Media Design & Technology Master's Degree program tailors to creating and developing future leaders in the education and corporate training fields. This 12-month intensive program spans across several areas of technology, education, design, corporate training, and theoretical perspectives.
Whether your passion is in the k-12 setting as an educator, or a corporate trainer wanting to learn new strategies to engage your audience, this multi-faceted degree will provide a foundation necessary to meet the needs of the students and workers of today and tomorrow! This degree will give you hands on experience of creating, tailoring and implementing effective uses of technology in your workplace.
The program is ideal for someone who (1) already holds a bachelor?s degree in math, science, or engineering, (2) wants to become a certified and licensed middle or high school math teacher, and (3) desires to earn a master?s degree. It is perfectly suited for those who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, and ideal candidates include unlicensed mathematics substitute teachers, career changers, retired military, and others who feel the call to teach.
If you already have a mathematics background, you can become a licensed teacher and earn a master?s degree. The M.A. in Teaching, Mathematics, combines teacher licensure and a master?s degree in a program that trains you to become a highly qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. As a master?s program, it includes additional training in research and your choice of instructional design, management and innovation, measurement, or technology integration.
The program is ideal for someone who (1) already holds a bachelor?s degree in math, science, or engineering, (2) wants to become a certified and licensed middle or high school science teacher, and (3) desires to earn a master?s degree. It is perfectly suited for those who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, and ideal candidates include unlicensed science substitute teachers, career changers, retired military, and others who feel the call to teach.
Perfect for someone who already has a science background, you can become a licensed teacher and earn a master?s degree. The M.A. in Teaching, Science, combines teacher licensure and a master?s degree in a program that trains you to become a highly qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. As a master?s program, it includes additional training in research and your choice of instructional design, management and innovation, measurement, or technology integration.
The program is ideal for someone who (1) already holds a bachelor?s degree in social science, (2) wants to become a certified and licensed middle or high school social science teacher, and (3) desires to earn a master?s degree. It is perfectly suited for those who can devote 15-20 hours per week to their studies, and ideal candidates include unlicensed social science substitute teachers, career changers, retired military, and others who feel the call to teach.
If you already have a social science background, you can become a licensed teacher and earn a master?s degree. The M.A. in Teaching, Social Science, combines teacher licensure and a master?s degree in a program that trains you to become a highly qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. As a master?s program, it includes additional training in research, instructional design, and performance improvement.
The Education Media Design & Technology Master's Degree program tailors to creating and developing future leaders in the education and corporate training fields. This 12-month intensive program spans across several areas of technology, education, design, corporate training, and theoretical perspectives.
Whether your passion is in the k-12 setting as an educator, or a corporate trainer wanting to learn new strategies to engage your audience, this multi-faceted degree will provide a foundation necessary to meet the needs of the students and workers of today and tomorrow! This degree will give you hands on experience of creating, tailoring and implementing effective uses of technology in your workplace.
The Education Media Design & Technology Master's Degree program tailors to creating and developing future leaders in the education and corporate training fields. This 12-month intensive program spans across several areas of technology, education, design, corporate training, and theoretical perspectives.
Whether your passion is in the k-12 setting as an educator, or a corporate trainer wanting to learn new strategies to engage your audience, this multi-faceted degree will provide a foundation necessary to meet the needs of the students and workers of today and tomorrow! This degree will give you hands on experience of creating, tailoring and implementing effective uses of technology in your workplace.
This program is specifically designed for already-licensed, practicing teachers aspiring to become school principals. If you can devote 15-20 hours per week to your studies, you'll be prepared to serve as a highly effective, instruction-based, certified principal. You will learn, for example, how to design and implement effective, standards-based educational improvement plans. The course of study integrates best practices in educational leadership into a case-study approach that culminates in an integrated practicum and capstone project.
The M.S. in Educational Leadership is based on multiple national standards, including the standards of the Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC) and the principles of the Baldrige National Quality Program's Education Criteria for Performance Excellence in Schools.
nursing bachelor?s degree (BSN), already possess healthcare industry experience, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The M.S. in Nursing?Education Specialization prepares you to become a nurse educator in schools, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The program equips you with high-level knowledge and skills while incorporating best practices in policy, organization, and financing; role development; research; advanced nursing practice; and nurse education. This is a perfect program for RNs with BSNs who want to become nurse educators. WGU programs are CCNE accredited.
This program is for actively working registered nurses (RNs) who hold a nursing bachelor?s degree (BSN), already possess healthcare industry experience, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The M.S. in Nursing?Leadership and Management Specialization prepares you to become a staff developer or health administrator in schools, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The program equips you with high-level knowledge and skills while incorporating best practices in policy, organization, and financing; role development; research; advanced nursing practice; and nurse leadership and management. This is a perfect program for RNs with BSNs who want to become nurse leaders or managers. WGU programs are CCNE accredited.
WGU?s M.S. in Nursing?Education (RN to MSN Option) is for registered nurses (RNs) who hold an associate?s degree, already possess nursing experience, and can devote 20 or more hours to their studies.
This direct RN to MSN option prepares you with bachelor?s- and graduate-level coursework to earn your master?s degree. The program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to become an effective nurse educator in a variety of healthcare settings. You?ll develop best practices in nurse education, advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, and the nursing sciences. This is a perfect program for RNs with associate?s degrees who want to become nurse educators.
WGU nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
WGU?s M.S. in Nursing?Leadership and Management (RN to MSN Option) is for registered nurses (RNs) who hold an associate?s degree, already possess nursing experience, and can devote 20 or more hours to their studies.
This direct RN to MSN option prepares you with bachelor?s- and graduate-level coursework to earn your master?s degree. The program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to move into nursing management or administration. You?ll develop best practices in leadership and management, advanced nursing practice, healthcare policy, and the nursing sciences. This is a perfect program for RNs with associate?s degrees who want to become nurse leaders or managers.
WGU nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
The Education Media Design & Technology Master's Degree program tailors to creating and developing future leaders in the education and corporate training fields. This 12-month intensive program spans across several areas of technology, education, design, corporate training, and theoretical perspectives.
Whether your passion is in the k-12 setting as an educator, or a corporate trainer wanting to learn new strategies to engage your audience, this multi-faceted degree will provide a foundation necessary to meet the needs of the students and workers of today and tomorrow! This degree will give you hands on experience of creating, tailoring and implementing effective uses of technology in your workplace.
Career opportunities are wide open for professionals with advanced IT security and assurance skills and credentials. WGU?s flexible, accredited program includes one major IT certification and provides you with the skills you need to succeed at very affordable tuition.
The M.S. Information Security and Assurance degree program is ideal for someone with a bachelor?s degree and experience in security and assurance who wants to earn a master?s degree in a high-demand field and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies. You will graduate with the necessary skills for the protection of networks, communication, and data, as well as the knowledge base for planning, implementing, and managing enterprise level security and system integrity. This program is built in alignment with the security standards put in place by the National Security Agency and encompasses the 10 security domains that are the foundations of the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
WGU is now a member of the Microsoft and Oracle IT Academies. These memberships offer unique integration of both Microsoft and Oracle learning resources into WGU?s IT degree programs, affording WGU students the opportunity to learn using simulations, live labs, and proprietary software.
This program is ideal for the self-motivated learner who already possesses significant ?real world? experience, seeks in-depth knowledge in management and strategy, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The Master of Business Administration prepares you for mid-level to upper-level management positions in business, industry, and non-profit organizations. The program educates you in a number of critical areas, including distribution, financial reporting, analysis, communication, ethics, strategy, and leadership. A perfect program for the experienced business professional who seeks a credible degree program and upward mobility.
This program is ideal for the self-motivated learner who already possesses healthcare industry experience, seeks in-depth knowledge in management and strategy, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The MBA ? Healthcare Management prepares you for mid-level to upper-level healthcare management positions. The program educates you in core business skills, essential industry knowledge, and advanced healthcare managerial expertise. A perfect program for the experienced healthcare administration professional who seeks a credible degree program and upward mobility.
This program is ideal for the self-motivated IT professional who already possesses significant ?real-world? experience, seeks in-depth knowledge in management and strategy, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The MBA ? Information Technology Management prepares you for mid-level to upperlevel IT management positions in business, industry, and non-profit organizations. The program educates you in core business skills, essential industry knowledge, and advanced IT managerial expertise. A perfect program for the experienced IT professional who seeks a credible degree program and upward mobility.
WGU is now a member of the Microsoft and Oracle IT Academies. These memberships offer unique integration of both Microsoft and Oracle learning resources into WGU?s IT degree programs, affording WGU students the opportunity to learn using simulations, live labs, and proprietary software.
This program is appropriate for someone who already holds a bachelor?s degree, wants to become a certified elementary teacher or middle school generalist, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Preparation Program (K-8) is the fastest way to qualify to become licensed as an elementary teacher or generalist middle school teacher. The program trains you to become a highly-qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. A perfect program for unlicensed substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for someone who already holds a bachelor?s degree with an extensive mathematics background, wants to become a certified middle school or high school mathematics teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Preparation Program, Mathematics (5-9 or 5-12) is the fastest way to qualify to become licensed as a middle school or high school mathematics teacher. The program trains you to become a highly-qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. A perfect program for unlicensed mathematics substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for someone who already holds a bachelor?s degree with an extensive science background, wants to become a certified middle school or high school science teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Preparation Program, Science (5-9 or 5-12) is the fastest way to qualify to become licensed as a middle school or high school science teacher. The program trains you to become a highly-qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. A perfect program for unlicensed science substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
This program is appropriate for someone who already holds a bachelor?s degree with an extensive social science background, wants to become a certified middle school or high school social science teacher, and can devote 15 to 20 hours per week to their studies.
The Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Preparation Program, Social Science (5-12) is the fastest way to qualify to become licensed as middle school or high school social science teacher. The program trains you to become a highly-qualified teacher and includes supervised practice teaching in an actual classroom setting. A perfect program for unlicensed social science substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, retired military, and career changers who feel the call to teach.
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