1. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a land-grant public research university with a main campus in Gainesville, Florida. Known for highly competitive sports, UF is also a great school. Some of the top ranked programs within the university include their programs in communications, education, business, medicine, engineering, law, and others. It’s typically thought of as one of the top 30 public schools in the nation and offers a huge range of degrees from the bachelor’s through doctoral levels. In recent years parts of the university have made a push online, including their master’s in communications. 

The University of Florida’s fully online master’s in communications blew us away for the range and quality of academic programs. Individuals can pursue a wide range of specializations catered to the 21st century including audience analytics, digital strategy, global strategic communication, political communication, PR communication, PR, social media, as well as web design. For students not wichin to pursue an entire master’s program, or wishing to level up in more than one discipline a handful of these specializations are also available as graduate-level certificate programs. Degrees may be finished in under two years and boast robust placement in the job market. 

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2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the best public universities in the nation and is considered a Public Ivy school. Formed in the late 1700’s, UNC has a long tradition of excellence. Today over 30,000 students call the university home, making it a large university. With its ample endowment, however, UNC is able to maintain small class sizes and a great deal of one-on-one attention for students to pursue a degree there. Particularly at the graduate levels, students have the ability to learn from award winning and nationally renowned individuals within their field, and the online communications masters is no different!

Known for their up-to-date, real world programming, UNC’s Hussman School of Journalism and Media offers a fully online master of arts in digital communication perfectly suited to the PR and communications needs of the 21st century. With two courses most semesters, individuals are able to work full time pursuing this degree. The final project is a non-traditional thesis, which allows individuals to build a portfolio with a semester-long project. Courses include digital-specific concerns such as media law online, usability, multimedia design, visualization of information, among others. 

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3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Located in the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign, Illinois, U of I is a second Public Ivy school in our list. Though the list of accolades for U of I could go on for several pages, some highlights include the second largest university library in the world, a massive research park that is home to over 90 start-ups, and impressive alumni including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer and Turing Prize winners, among others. Over 50,000 students attend U of I, with a majority at the undergraduate level. 

For potential students looking to jump into corporate or brand communications, U of I offers a fully online program that may be just for you. The masters in strategic brand communication as well as additional certificates and courses in the subject matter are led by real world experts and provide immediately applicable knowledge. With a 16 months time until degree, students can expect to be able to jump back into the workforce very quickly (or pursue the degree while working). For individuals presently working in communication, U or I is happy to work with your employer to try and line up employer sponsorship for the degree as well. 

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4. Columbia University

Columbia University of New York is an Ivy League institution located at one of the hearts of modern communications. One of the nine colonial colleges founded in the Declaration of Independence, the university has a long history of excellence. Today the university has one of the largest endowments in the world, enabling the school to provide great levels of support and small class sizes even for its size. While it is the first private institution in our list, and therefore has an expensive “sticker price,” a “need blind” financial aid policy means the school tends to cover excess financial need for potential students. 

Columbia University’s renowned school of professional studies offers a unique master’s level communication degree. This Executive Master of Science in Strategic Communication is specifically for individuals who have a decent amount of experience in the field. This means that the program can start with more advanced topics and skip intro material. This also means that the program can be completed part time and in as few as 16 months. We should note that this is not a 100% online degree, but rather provides most courses online with a few in-person meetups that simulate key communications settings in the real world. 

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5. Purdue University

The flagship university of the Purdue University system, this university holds designations as a sea-grant and space-grant institution. Home to over 43,000 students, in recent years this prestigious university has started to open some degree programs up to online delivery methods. Particularly noteworthy programs include their overall undergraduate experience as well as engineering degrees. In recent years Purdue has been among the 20 top public schools in the nation and last year was honored by being named one of the five most innovative universities in the United States. 

Purdue University’s online masters in communications is impressive for the range of specializations offered as well as how quickly one can achieve the degree. Students may choose how quickly they want to finish their degree, with average times ranging between 12 and 20 months. A range of specialization options include the intersection of communication and leadership, advertising, public relations, or health. No GRE or residency requirements mean you can jump right into the application and don’t have to disrupt your life or career to progress through the program. 

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6. Florida International University

Florida International University is a relatively young (56 years old) public research university that’s located in accordingly named University Park, Florida. Despite its age, the university holds the highest designation for research activity. Up until 2005, the university placed an emphasis on growth in student body size. But in years since the focus has shifted on continually improving the quality of education being offered. With this said, this is still quite a large university with close to 60,000 students attending. With an estimated undergraduate cost per year after aid of $8,000, it’s also one of the most affordable schools we surveyed.

Florida International University offers a fully online master of science in global strategic communications. This university is particularly well suited to provide such an international degree given it’s proximity to the Carribean, Latin, and South America. This degree is interdisciplinary and offered by the innovative college of communication, architecture, and the arts. The program is also one of the most accelerated available on our list, and only requires 12 months of study, all online.  Additionally students may start the program in the Fall or Spring semesters. 

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7. American University

This private research university located in Washington, D.C. is associated with the United Methodist Church, and was founded to promote public service, internationalism, and pragmatic idealism. Known for its connection to the political action within D.C., the university is a great location to learn international affairs, diplomacy, communications, and law. A wide range of politicians have passed through this school, and it’s one of the top five producers of members of the U.S. Foreign Service, Congressional Staff, as well as Ambassadors. With “just” 5,000 postgraduates who attend the university, courses can be kept relatively small in size leading to increased interactions and quality. 

American University builds on its unique position within the center of United States politics and governance to present a world class master of arts in strategic communication. We like this degree for the unique range of specializations that individuals may pursue. These focus areas include advocacy and social impact, digital communication strategies and analytics, international strategic communication, and corporate communication and reputation management. Speaking of reputation, American University is well known throughout the world and particularly in governance circles. 

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8. Michigan State University

This public land-grant university is the flagship university of the Michigan State University system. Founded in the mid 1800’s, MSU was originally an agricultural college, and served as a model for many of the agricultural colleges that were created after it. It is one of the largest universities in the nation by enrollment. And graduates can draw from over 600,000 living alumni as connections across the world. With an 80% graduation rate at the undergraduate level (typically a marker of academic quality), it ranks among the best of the surveyed schools, particularly accounting for the relatively more affordable tuition when compared to private universities. 

Michigan State University offers a fully online master of arts in strategic communication. We like this degree program for its affordable nature and flexibility. Students may choose from one, two, and three-year tracks. Each of these tracks is 100% online. Additionally students may choose three specialization areas. These include: digital media, media analytics, and organizational leadership and communications. No GRE requirements and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 keep this program accessible to many individuals. Additionally, students may begin their studies in fall, spring, or summer. 

• Program Website

9. Johns Hopkins University

This private research university is one of the most prestigious in the United States, commonly ranking among the 20 best schools in the world. Located with a main campus in Baltimore, Maryland, the undergraduate colleges are kept relatively small. Though it’s postgraduate work that the university is most well-known for. As a space-grant institution located close to many aeronautical and governmental centers in the region, many of their engineering programs stand out. Proximity to D.C. also bodes well for connections for students who want to pursue opportunities in government, politics, and industry. Additional clusters of excellence within the university include medicine-related degrees, education, international studies, and foreign policy. 

The ability to attend schools of the caliber of Johns Hopkins fully online is rare. That’s part of what makes Johns Hopkins online master of arts in communication a great find. Additionally, three start dates (fall, spring, summer) and an adjustable time until degree ranging from 12 to 24 months make this program flexible enough for many individuals working full time. Nine segments help to build up versatility in graduates. These segments include writing and editing, publishing and media, brand management, political communication, content strategy, public relations, and advertising and marketing. 

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10. Eastern Illinois University

Originally established as a teacher’s college, today Eastern Illinois University offers a wide range of degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s level. Home to roughly 8,600 students of whom 1,600 study at the graduate level, courses are able to be kept small in order to promote quality engagement. With a solid graduation rate for schools within its tier, the university is a “best buy” in terms of offering affordable tuition at all levels. 

The fully online master of arts in communication studies offered by Eastern Illinois University is impressive for its great job placement rate as well as its range of concentrations individuals can specialize with. 86% of graduates find a job within the field of communications within three months of graduation. Students within the program can jump into a range of concentrations including strategic communication, media and critical studies, communication and leadership, interpersonal communication processes, as well as a pedagogy option. Additionally, a graduate certification is available for individuals who don’t want to pursue an entire master’s. 

• Program Website

11. University of Missouri

This public land-grant, space-grant and research university is the flagship location of the University of Missouri System. As the first public university to be erected west of the Mississippi River, Mizzou has long held a prestigious place among midwest universities. Journalism and communication have been at heart of their offerings for over 100 years, as the first school in the United States to open a school of journalism (likely the second in the world). At around 30,000 students, the university is large but not overwhelming. Around 7,000 of these students study at the postgraduate level. 

The University of Missouri’s online masters in strategic communication provides a great option for individuals who want to balance work with school. Slower paced than other programs in our ranking, students may take one or two courses each semester. This leads to graduation in two or three years, but is likely easier to handle if working full time. One campus visit is required, so technically this is a “blended” degree. With that said, all courses are available online. This degree is offered by the school of journalism. 

• Program Website

12. Colorado State University

This public land-grant university is located in Fort Collins, Colorado within view of the front range of the Rockies. In recent years, however, Colorado State University has heavily pushed online education as well. Not to be confused with a separate school in the same system that is 100% online (Colorado State University Global), Colorado State University also offers some of its own degrees online. Originally an agricultural and mechanical college, the university has made a name for itself in environmental sciences, cancer research, and as a location for the origination of the Peace Corps. 

Colorado State University Online’s fully online master of communications and media management provides a take slightly different from others in our ranking. The focus on management of media can be great for individuals looking to move up the communications ladder. A focus on technical skills in electives as well as building a professional network and learning applied knowledge is great for individuals looking to build on the degree directly within their career. This degree may be completed in two years and offers financial aid for graduate students who need it. 

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13. Texas Tech University

The main institution within the Texas Tech University System,this public research institution is designated as a Hispanic-serving institution. Over 150 courses of study are offered and the university provides more than 60 research centers. With over 40,000 students, the university is one of the largest in the region, and alumni have gone on to achieve prominence in many fields and particularly in government, science, business, and sports. 

Texas tech University’s College of Media and Communications offers a fully online masters in strategic communication and innovation. This degree focuses on the digital environments that most communications occur in today. Additionally, students not wishing to pursue a full master’s degree may opt for a graduate certificate in the same subject matter. Asynchronous courses provide the ideal amount of flexibility for working students. Additionally, four start dates are available and students may choose to pursue two or three courses for each semester in the program. 

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14. University of Michigan – Flint

Operated under the board of regents of the University of Michigan system, the University of Michigan at Flint is one of two regional counterparts to the flagship schools. Rated as a Doctoral/Professional University, emphasis is not on research but on applied professional degrees moreseo. A regular of the “Best Midwestern” schools category in national rankings, the school provides a great value with one of the cheapest cost per credit hour after financial aid of schools surveyed. The school is a mid-sized university with only 1,400 postgraduates and an additional 6,000 undergraduates. 

The University of Michigan at Flint offers small class sizes and supportive student services for their online masters in communication studies. Three emphasis areas allow students to craft a degree of their choosing. These focus areas include professional communications, media studies, and speech communication. Speech communication is a unique offering among schools we’ve ranked, and focuses on generalist communication as well as cultural connections, and interpersonal matters. 

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15. Northeastern University

This space-grant, private research university is one of the top schools in the nation. With a main campus in Boston, Massachusetts, in recent years the university has expanded to industrial and governmental hubs with a range of satellite campuses as well as online. Satellite campuses are presently in Charlotte, Seattle, San Jose, San Francisco, Toronto, Vancouver, Portland (ME) as well as London, England. With 27,000 students, it’s a fairly large private school. But with this said, a commitment to high quality classes and a large endowment enables small manageable class sizes where students may interact or get more one-on-one instruction. 

Northeastern University is known for their professional studies education, and this communications degree entirely fits within that focus. The fully online master’s in corporate and organizational communication can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis with the part time program only requiring 18 months for completion. The accelerated full-time program may be completed in a year entirely online so you can get back to your career quickly. Six concentrations allow for additional focus areas to be added to the degree. These include public and media relations, cross cultural communications as well as social media. 

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16. The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama may best be known for their athletics, but their academics also rise to the top of their region (if not nationally in fields). This sea-grant and space-grant very high research activity university is presently home to around 38,000 students. Particularly noteworthy schools within the university include their law school, business school, education school, and engineering school. In recent years they’ve made a push into online education by growing their “Bama by Distance” program. Their offerings in journalism are particularly well fleshed out in these distance offerings. 

Bama by Distance’s fully online master of arts in communication studies with a specialization in organizational leadership places highly in our ranking due to its flexibility, price, and quality. While all students will focus on the organizational leadership component of communications, students may choose a professional or academic option, depending on whether they would like to pursue further education in the subject matter or jump back into their career. The primary difference is that the academic option requires a comprehensive exam, while the professional option requires an applied capstone portfolio project. Three start date windows as well as affordable tuition make this program more accessible to all. 

• Program Website

17. Mississippi College

One of the first religious colleges in our list, Mississippi College is a private Baptist college with a main campus in Clinton, Mississippi. It holds the honor of being the oldest college in the state of Mississippi as well as the second oldest Baptist college in the United States. While designated a college due to the institution’s primary focus on undergraduate education, some graduate degrees are offered. Of the 6,300 students, roughly one quarter of them study at the postgraduate level, either in Mississippi College’s law school or additional graduate programs. This medium-sized private school is able to offer quality student-to-faculty ratios, meaning that students get plenty of attention and support. 

If you’re a student looking for a Christian-based education in communication, Mississippi College could be a great choice. We like this program for its range of concentrations. Concentrations available include: an applied generalist degree, an applied journalism degree, an applied theater degree, an applied health-centered communication degree, a sports communication degree, and a PR and corporate communication degree. Presently the generalist and health concentrations are the only concentrations available online. 

• Program Website

18. University of Denver

This private research university is the oldest private university within the Rocky Mountain region. Home to almost 13,000 students, the university is somewhat large for a private organization. This allows for the school to host a wide range of research programs. The university is classified as an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity, school. Some of their top ranked programs are related to communication, with one of the best creative writing programs in the nation as well as one of the top International Studies degree programs. In recent years this university has pushed to gain a larger footprint online, and offers many quality degrees by this delivery method. 

Denver University offers a fully online masters in communication management degree. This could be a great option for individuals who already hold practical communications skills and would like to move up the ladder within a communications organization. Focus areas include data-driven storytelling, strategic communication, organizational change, and interpersonal conversations. Semesters last 10 weeks and individuals do not need to take a GRE or GMAT for acceptance into the program. Students may elect to pursue a 6-month long certificate program, a longer 12 month certificate program, or the entire 18 month-long master’s degree. 

• Program Website

19. Gonzaga University

The first Catholic university in our list is located in Spokane, Washington. This top 100 university in the United States is particularly well known in the west, where it makes the top 30 universities. Noteworthy programs include engineering, among others. A mid-sized student body allows the school to boast particularly quality student to faculty ratios. At present roughly 7,500 students attend the school with 2,200 at the graduate levels. The university has a handful of online degrees of which a masters in communications degree is one. 

Gonzaga University’s master’s in communication and leadership is available fully online and provides a unique focus on research, analysis, and problem solving. It provides one of the widest ranges of concentrations of programs we have seen in this year’s ranking. Concentrations presently available include change leadership, college teaching, digital media strategies, global leadership, servant leadership, and strategic and organizational communication. A range of domestic immersion experiences as well as study abroad opportunities are available if students choose to pursue them. 

• Program Website

20. Syracuse University

This private research university was originally established by the Methodist Episcopal Church, and still maintains a relationship with the United Methodist Church (though it is described as nonsectarian). One of the top 100 schools in the nation, this space-grant university is home to close to 23,000 students with a majority of them at the undergraduate level. Though the main campus is in Syracuse, New York, a growing range of degrees are offered fully online. Among their most noteworthy programs are their social science degrees, design degrees, architecture degrees, information studies, management, law, among others. 

Syracuse University provides a top-ranked fully online master of science in communications that focuses on public relations. We like this program due to the national name recognition of Syracuse, quality of courses as well as flexibility-enhancing program components. The degree may be completed in as few as 15 months and no GRE or GMAT scores are required. Unlike some programs that are asynchronous, these courses are live and taught by the world class faculty of Newhouse college. Additional concentrations include advertising, journalism innovation, and media management. 

• Program Website

The post The 20 Best Online Master’s In Communications Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

With this in mind, an international business background is commonly required for upper-level employment in international tourism agencies. And even to work in the industry domestically, management positions are reserved for professionals who have specialized backgrounds in business management. 

Given the specialized requirements of high-end positions in the job market, it can be tremendously difficult for professionals to work their way up the professional ladder without the proper degree to back them up. A Master’s of Hospitality Management is designed specifically for this purpose–to position students to take on the upper-level and most lucrative jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry. 

1. Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) has produced industry-leading professionals in the hospitality and tourism space. The FSU Dedman College of Hospitality is designed specifically to prepare students to not only excel as professionals, but to thrive as industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Dedman College of Hospitality offers various undergraduate and graduate degree paths that confer a different focus or specialization–each of which consistently rank among the best of their kind. 

The College however, offers one graduate level program–a fully online Master’s of Entrepreneurship in Hospitality Management. Offered through a collaboration between the Dedman College of Hospitality and the College of Entrepreneurship, the program is designed to cultivate students’ capacity of innovative thinking and strategic business strategizing. 

Students will build toward expertise by progressing in the following areas of coursework:

• Accounting and Finance for Entrepreneurs
• Ethics in Management
• Strategy Formulation
• Foundation in Entrepreneurship and Leadership
• Hospitality Colloquium
• Entrepreneurial Lodging
• Legal Environment of Hospitality and Tourism Operations
• Marketing Strategy

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2. The University of Alabama

Whether for its popular sports programs, its massive network of research facilities, or its robust degree offerings, University of Alabama (UA) is a well known name in higher education. Through the online degree programs offered by College of Continuing Education, UA reaches more students than ever before. These programs are designed to jumpstart students’ careers in flexible yet academically rigorous programs that can be completed by full-time workers and first-time college students alike. 

The UA College of Continuing Education offers a Master of Science in Hospitality Management that is designed for students coming from one of two backgrounds: students coming from a bachelor’s program who look to specialize in hospitality career, or professionals coming from the hospitality industry who look to build the necessary expertise to take on managerial roles and upper-level employment. 

Students will progress through a thesis or non-thesis track of business-oriented curriculum that prepares them for positions of management. Specifically, students will delve deeply into the following areas of coursework: 

• Research Method
• Leadership in the Hospitality Industry
• Hospitality Law
• Management in the Hospitality Industry
• RHM 596 Seminar in Hospitality Management
• Financial Management and Hospitality Operations
• Special Problems in Hospitality Management

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3. Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) is a prestigious institution that has driven industry-changing innovation in higher education. For FIU the word ‘international’ is not just marketing slang but a core pillar of the University’s aspirations. Where applicable FIU incorporates global awareness, international business studies, and worldwide internships. This statement is particularly true in the case of FIU’s Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. 

In 2006, FIU unveiled the first American Hospitality and Tourism School in China. Today students can take advantage of this resource to facilitate Chinese business networking opportunities as well as internships–specifically with the Marriott in Tianjin, China. Through the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management students can earn one of two Master’s degrees. 

Specifically, students can enroll either in the Master of Science in Hospitality Management or in the Executive Master of Science in Hospitality Management. The former will be the most common choice for students enrolling after completing a bachelor’s degree and can be completed entirely online in just one year. The executive program however, is designed for students who have demonstrated success working in the hospitality industry and can be completed in just 10 months entirely online. 

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4. Purdue University

Purdue University is a name associated with academic prestige and pedigree, a reputation conferred by its tremendously talented faculty who work at the forefront of their respective specialties. Faculty leverage their expertise and inside-knowledge of industries to position students to capitalize on market needs and opportunities after graduation. With the development of its online degree programs, more students are able to benefit from Purdue’s high standard of education. 

Purdue Online offers a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Purdue has been recognized for offering the #1 Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programs for hospitality management education in the Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education. Graduates of these programs can leverage the high level of prestige for higher levels of competitiveness in the job market. 

One reason for the excellence of these programs is the commitment to research-centric studies. Students will explore the ins and outs current industry statistics, market interactions, and employer needs. So upon graduation students will have the complete tool kit needed to excel as professionals and leaders. 

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5. University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida (UCF) offers more than 200 hundred degree programs that are designed to represent the real-world needs of the job market. The Rosen College of Hospitality Management is positioned in the #1 tourist destination in America, Florida. The College leverages this position to tap into global tourism networks and professional connections, so that students can find professional opportunities and internship opportunities both at home and abroad. 

Specifically the College offers a Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management that can be completed entirely online. The program is taught by international faculty who bring different backgrounds and specialties to the conversation. Students of the program can choose between a thesis or non-thesis option. 

The thesis track is meant for students who wish to establish a specialization or niche area of expertise. The non-thesis track is meant for students who are not quite sure or ready to establish a specific focus, and as such will spend more time covering foundational concepts more comprehensively. 

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6. San Diego State University

San Diego State University (SDSU) has evolved in recent years to accommodate the rising demand for degree programs to accommodate working adults. Specifically, SDSU’s College of Extended Studies mentions in its mission statement that 34 million American adults hold college course credits but do not hold the relative certification. SDSU’s online degree programs are designed to accommodate adult professionals and working students who wish to work toward professional advancement amidst even the busiest of schedules. 

SDSU’s L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management is designed for mid-level managers with five to fifteen years of experience, who wish to advance to the next level of leadership–that is, as a general manager, director, CEO, or hospitality company executive. Specifically the School offers a Master’s of Hospitality Management that can be completed entirely online. 

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7. University of Houston

The University of Houston (UH) boasts a storied history of innovating in the distance education space, stretching back as far as 1953 when the University founded the nation’s first educational TV station. Today UH leverages an extensive catalogue of online degree programs to accommodate both busy professionals and working students who wish to work toward professional advancement amidst even the most demanding schedules. 

UH offers a unique graduate hospitality program that is designed to groom students for upper-echelon positions in the job market. Specifically, students can earn an Executive Master of Hospitality Management (M.H.M). The ‘executive’ designation refers to the focus of curriculum on the upper-end challenges and concerns of management and executive leadership in the hospitality industry. 

While the program accepts students from various backgrounds with various levels of professional experience, the program curriculum is tailored to meet a student’s individual level of preparedness and aptitude. The program leverages its various corporate partnerships to customize curriculums for mid-level and senior leaders. This allows the program to simultaneously accept novice leaders and veteran leaders alike. 

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8. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the largest institutions of online higher education in the world. To date the alumni body consists of a whopping 500,000 professionals and academics. Students looking for efficient and affordable online degree programs taught by academic scholars with industry clout will find ASU to be a seductive option. 

Specifically ASU offers a Master of Sustainable Tourism (MST) which uniquely positions the hospitality curriculum in the context of environmental, economic, and societal considerations. The United States Agency for International Development has supported more than 123 sustainable tourism projects in 72 countries.

The program positions students to capitalize on market opportunities in this same vein–working as managers with sustainability expertise, as industry consultants, or sustainability research experts. As such students can expect a research-oriented curriculum, designed to prepare students for a profession that is essentially a blending of research sustainability science and hospitality management. 

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9. Monroe College

Monroe College offers a host of student-centric policies and services to ensure that online students graduate with the same grooming and support as their on-campus counterparts. Students have unfettered access to 24/7 online tutoring; program advisors help students make the best choices in navigating degree programs; and Monroe is recognized as one of the ‘best value’ colleges in the country. 

Monroe College’s King Graduate School employs a research and project focus in curriculums that facilitates the skill-building that is so attractive to employers. Monroe offers an MBA program designed to prepare students to accell as managers in the hospitality industry. While the curriculum does not directly focus on the hospitality industry, students are free to establish this specialization through the freedom and flexibility of electives, research projects, and thesis work. 

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10. University of Louisiana – Lafayette 

The University of Louisiana – Lafayette employs a unique strategy in its graduate level education programs for aspiring managers. All of its management-based programs are housed under the AACSB-accredited B.I. Moody III School of Business Administration. The School is designed to value students’ time and most programs can be completed in as little as 15 months. Program curriculum is informed by the most current industry research and corporate best practices.

Specifically, the B.I. Moody III School of Business Administration offers a MBA in Hospitality Management that can be completed entirely online in as little as 15 months. The total tuition cost is around $12,800, making it one of the most affordable MBA programs on the market. 

The affordability of the program is not gained at the expense of academic rigor. Students of the program will build the necessary knowledge and skills to obtain employment in the following sectors of the hospitality industry: 

• Guest Experience Manager
• Hotel Director
• Global Development Manager
• Tourism Coordinator
• Director of Sales and Marketing
• Director of Financial Planning

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11. University of Nevada – Las Vegas 

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is a thriving urban research institution that has leveraged its explosive growth in expansion in the digital learning space. Its online degree programs are defined by research-centric curriculums that are designed to represent the real-world needs of the job market and industry trends. 

UNLV offers a fully online Master of Hospitality Administration (M.H.A.) that is completed at a self-paced schedule. The program is designed specifically for hospitality professionals who wish to advance to upper positions of leadership and management. 

The dynamic curriculum provides students with a host of choices and research opportunities that facilitate the building of specializations and focused skill sets. Students will conclude their time in the program in choosing between an entrepreneurial project or a professional paper that represents the student’s chosen professional focus. 

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12. University of North Texas

The University of North Texas (UNT) is a member of the National Council of Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), an organization founded to ensure a high standard of education. This standard of academics represents a core pillar of UNT’s philosophy of education, that is, students at UNT can be sure that their degree program is being held to a high standard of excellence. 

The UNT College of Merchandising, Hospitality & Tourism offers a fully online Master’s of Science in Hospitality Management. The program consists of 36 credit hours and comes with a price tag of about $16,300 for Texas residents. Tuition rates will vary for students from other states. 

A defining characteristic of this program is its commitment to global awareness and to cultivating a sound foundation in international business considerations. Graduates of this program will be dynamically business-minded professionals ready to take on roles of management and leadership in the hospitality industry. 

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13. Auburn University

Auburn University (AU) is a large public institution of higher education whose name conferrs academic clout and professional preparedness to its alumni. AU’s College of Human Sciences houses a catalogue of various degree programs that all hold one thing in common–they look to create a sense of global awareness and humanistic responsibility. At the College of Human Sciences, students will learn how to leverage professional roles of their career path to enact positive change in the world around them. 

The AU College of Human Sciences offers both an on-campus option and a fully online Master of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, HRMT. The on-campus track involves a thesis track which comprises a total 30 credits. The online program track forgoes the thesis option in favor of more comprehensive coursework totalling at 33 credits. 

Students of the program will develop skills in assessing and addressing specific problems faced by the industry. As such students will become experts of conducting marketing research and analysis, and will learn to employ their managerial skills to implement responsive strategies in a given organization. 

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14. Colorado State University

Colorado State University (CSU) is consistently recognized for its top-tier degree programs and world class faculty. CSU offers flexible online degree programs that accommodate working professionals, adult learners, and others with demanding schedules that make traditional on-campus programs untenable. 

CSU Offers a fully online Master of Tourism Management (M.T.M.) that builds a foundational knowledge of business practice as well as the specific challenges and factors most central to the tourism industry. The program curriculum is designed to train students to view tourism organizations as business ventures defined by financial forces and variables, so that upon graduation students will be able to lead tourism businesses to financial success. 

CSU’s M.T.M. program is unique in that it allows an opportunity for students to specialize in ski area tourism. Given CSU’s proximity to the ski-capital of America, students who choose this track will engage with CSU’s professional network and corporate partners who are leaders of the ski-tourism industry in Colorado.

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15. Temple University

Temple University is a school built around the mission of turning students into innovators and creative thinkers. Temple’s degree programs challenge the status quo and emphasize out-of-the-box critical thinking. By building skills of creative problem solving, graduates of Temple University are able to tackle a host of challenges–not just those typical to the chosen degree or career path. 

Temple University offers two separate online graduate degree options for those interested in the tourism and hospitality industry. The first is a standard Master of Science in Hospitality Management, which delivers a curriculum based on the foundational concepts of hospitality and tourism organizations. The second option is a Master of Science in Tourism and Travel, which delivers a curriculum more focused on industry trends and statistics in the tourism industry. 

In other words, the tourism and travel program is more focused on research and independent study–making it an excellent option for professionals who may not want to take on traditional management responsibilities in the workplace. In either program students will benefit from faculty who are plugged into the industry and who provide a host of student-development services, such as resume critiquing and professional counseling.

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16. George Washington University

The George Washington University School of Business has maintained a global presence of business leadership for nearly 100 years. The GW School of Business houses internationally recognized faculty who have demonstrated real-world success in their industry of focus. The School’s forward-thinking curriculum positions students to capitalize in current and future market opportunities as well as the needs of employers. 

 The GW School of Business has expanded its reach to more students through its online degree offerings. Among these is a fully online Master of Tourism Administration that positions students to take on high-end roles of management and leadership in the tourism industry. 

Students of the Master of Tourism Administration will not only learn from world-class faculty, but will also benefit from the program’s guest-teaching program where industry-leading professionals who tool their insider knowledge to jumpstart students’ careers. 

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17. Louisiana State University – Shreveport

Louisiana State University – Shreveport is a proud member of the Louisiana State University System that distinguishes itself by providing top-tier degree program options for a fraction of the cost of comparable programs. These programs do not sacrifice quality for affordability–students will learn from expert faculty, 80% of which hold the highest degree in their field. 

LSU Shreveport offers hospitality professionals two graduate level degree paths housed in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Specifically, students can choose between a MBA with a Hospitality and Casino Management Concentration, or an MBA with a Hospitality and Casino Management Specialization. 

Students interested in entering the casino industry will be hard-pressed to find a better option. Students who graduate from this program will be perfectly positioned to take on management positions in the hospitality and casino management industry. 

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18. University of New Orleans

The University of New Orleans (UNO) College of Business Administration is an internationally recognized school of academic excellence and measurable professional advancement. The College of Business Administration consistently ranks among the industry’s best with its degree programs brandishing various metrics of impressive success. 

Of most relevance to this ranking is the metric relating to the Online Executive Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Specifically, an astonishing 100% of graduates of this program are employed in their industry by the time of graduation. This speaks to the program’s success in cultivating the skills and knowledge that are most valued by employers. 

Students will build specialization by progressing through coursework in the following areas: 

• Survey of the Hospitality & Tourism Industry
• Special Topics in Hospitality & Tourism Management
• Marketing Applications for the Hospitality & Tourism Industry
• Hospitality & Tourism Finance & Revenue Management
• Tourism Destination Development
• Technology for Hospitality & Tourism Management
• Hospitality & Tourism Operations Analysis
• Change Management for Hospitality & Tourism
• Hospitality & Tourism Research Methods
• Hospitality & Tourism Industry Strategic Management 

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19. University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment provides students with a career-focused, research-informed curriculum that is designed to facilitate industry knowledge and market understanding. This positions students to accel in the job market by capitalizing on industry-wide opportunities and employer needs. 

Specifically the College’s Department of Retailing and Tourism Management offers students two graduate level degree options in hospitality and tourism–a Master of Science in Merchandising, Apparel, and Textiles, and a Master of Science in Hospitality Management and Tourism. 

Regardless of the program path, students will benefit from expert faculty who facilitate professional development. Specifically, faculty will assist students in lining up internship opportunities that are most aligned with a student’s unique career goals and professional aspirations. 

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20. Schiller International University

Schiller International University is a global force in online education and services students from more than 130 countries. What distinguishes Schiller is its student-centric services and consumer-friendly practices. Foremost among which is the ‘try it and see’ model where students can choose to make a single partial payment to try one course, or two try a group of four within a specific major-path to ensure it is the correct path. 

Schiller International University offers an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism Management that can be completed entirely online. A distinguishing element of this program is its commitment to a curriculum that embodies global business awareness and international tourism trends. 

Students of the program will progress through coursework that emphasizes the foundational concepts of advanced business administration and hospitality management. Options for specialization are offered through a catalogue of electives and research projects. 

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The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Hospitality Management appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

1. George Washington University

George Washington University is a four-year private institution that offers comprehensive programming. GWU is located in the district of Columbia. According to the US News and World Report GWU ranks as the 66th best school in the nation and one of the top schools for veterans value computer science business and more. In recent years, GWU started offering online programming. In fact GWU offers online options in nearly all of their academic fields.

Among their many online off offerings is there online master of science in project management. This masters degree is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. In fact it was founded in 1996. Through the years George Washington University has developed an updated program now available online. Students participating in this degree will focus on the following areas: organization management and leadership, project management, optimization models for decision making, risk management, project portfolio management, planning and scheduling, and much more. Students complete their program with the capstone experience.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

2. New York University

New York University is a private four-year institution located in New York, New York. The university currently enrolls over 50,000 students and maintains a student to faculty ratio of 9 to 1. According to the US news and world report NYU rank is the 30th best school in the nation and highly for veterans value business innovation engineering and much more. In recent years, New York university has offered online programming. NYU online is a growing online school for individual seeking degree programs or professional certifications.

NYU office a master of science in project management. The program is divided into three main parts: core courses, specialization courses, and the capstone. The core curriculum includes the following: principles of project management, leading global organizations, transforming organizations, organizational ethics, intercultural business communications, and management of information systems. The program itself is flexible and is designed to meet the needs of working professionals.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

3. Georgetown University

Georgetown University is a private four-year institution located in Washington DC. The university currently enrolls nearly 20,000 students and has a student to faculty ratio of 11 to 1. Georgetown offers a bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctors degrees. Additionally the University offers professional certifications for baccalaureate and post masters certifications. According to the US News and World Feport Georgetown University ranks as the 23rd best school in the nation, the seventh best college for veterans, the 12th best undergraduate engineering school, the seventh best for service learning, and the 35th most innovative school.

Georgetown University offers an online masters degree in project management. Students may pursue this program on campus and online. This is a 30 credit hour program that typically takes 2 to 5 years to complete depending on whether or not you complete the course part time or full time. Because of this flexibility, this program is ideal for working professionals. The curriculums includes courses material in the following: project management fundamentals, agile fundamentals, project initiation and planning, project execution and delivery, and communications and collaboration for managers. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose from a number of electives. For more information about this program check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master’s in project management

4. American University

American University is a private institution located in Washington DC. The student population is just over 14,000 and the student to faculty ratio is 11 to 1. The university offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Report American University ranks as a 76th best school in the nation and the 25th best undergraduate teaching school. Additionally, American university ranks highly for innovation and value. The institution offers a wide range of academic offerings now including online programming.

American university offers an online master of science in measurement and evaluation. If you are looking to become ready for the workplace and project and program evaluation and this course is for you. The curriculum model includes core courses, electives, a field/professional experience, and a capstone experience. The courses include: evaluation quantitative methods, principles and theories of evaluation, innovation through new technologies, professional ethics and project leader ship, human resource information systems, strategic management of sports organizations, decision making and change management, innovation through new technologies, and data driven decision making. For more information about this degree program check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in agile project management

5. Brandeis University

Brandeis University is a four-year institution located in Waltham, Massachusetts. There are 5825 students in rolled under student to faculty ratio is 10 to 1. Brandeis offers bachelors masters and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Feport Brandeis University ranks as the 42nd best school in the nation and highly for value, teaching, innovation, business, and computer science.

Brandeis University offers a master of science project and program management. This is a 30 credit hour part time online masters degrees that is broken into two main component parts: courses and electives. The required courses include the following: communication for affective leadership, foundations of project management, project scheduling and cost management, risk management and projects and programs, negotiating and conflict resolution, program management: theory and practice, and the human side of project leadership. Students then choose three elective courses to round out their program. For more information about this online degree head to their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

6. Saint Louis University

St. Louis University is a private institution located in St. Louis Missouri. The university offers comprehensive degree programs as well as certifications. There are over 12,000 students in rolled at the student to faculty ratio is 9 to 1. According to the US News and World Report St. Louis University ranks as the 103rd best school in the nation as well as the 48th best school for value. Their academic offerings include programming in biology and medical sciences, business, engineering, health, homeland security, psychology, and much more.

St. Louis University offers a bachelor of science and project management. This is a 120 credit our PMI approved program. The program is divided into the following areas call a core curriculums, major requirements, general education courses. As part of the major you will learn about the fundamentals of project management and contract management. You will study courses like: project selection and scope, Project data analysis, requirements analysis, government contracting, time cost and risk management, project management laboratory and others.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online bachelor’s degree in project management

7. Colorado State University Global Campus

Colorado State University is a public institution located in Fort Collins. This is a four-year institution that offers a bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree. The student population is currently 33,000 and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1. According to the US News and World Report, Colorado State University ranks is 153rd best school in the nation and highly for veterans, value, social mobility, and undergraduate engineering. When it comes to academic offerings Colorado State University offers a number of programs both on campus and online.

The Colorado State Global Campus offers an online bachelors degree in project management. This is a PMI certified course as well as a GAC accredited program. This degree is 33 credit hours long and includes the following core courses: applying leadership principles, principles of management, operations management, effective project scheduling in control, project leader ship, project quality management, assessing in managing risk, project procurement and contract management, as well as a capstone experience. Students have the option of adding on a 15-credit hour degree specialization in one of the following areas: marketing, emergency management, healthcare management, foundations of accounting, organizational leadership, human resources and organizational development.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online bachelor’s in project management

8. Regis University

Regis University is a private four year institution located in Denver, Colorado. There are over 6000 students in enrolled at Regis and the student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1. The institution offers bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Regis currently ranks as the 217th best school in the nation according to the US News and World Report. The university offers a wide array of academic programming including in business, computer and information sciences, education, healthcare, psychology, and the performing arts.

Regis University offers a Master of Science in Project Leadership and Management. If you enjoy organizing work and community projects but want to enhance your skill set than this is the course for you. This is a 30 credit hour cours where each course is eight weeks long. This course has been recognized for excellence by the PMI Global Accreditation Center for Project Management. Some of the courses that you’ll take include: delivering organization excellence, leading projects and contemporary organizations, and management of project performance. For more information about this program had to their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project leadership and management

9. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a four-year private institution located in Dayton Beach, Florida. There are 7000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. The university offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University ranks as the ninth best school in the region according to the US News and World Report. Additionally, the University ranks highly for veterans, undergraduate teaching, innovation, and value.

Embry-Riddle offers a Master of Science in Project Management. This program is divided into two main component parts for a total of 30 credit hours. The main components are core courses and project management capstone. As part of this online degree you will take the following: planning and execution of strategy, decision making for leaders, foundations of project management, management science for project managers, fundamentals of project scope schedule cost and research management, fundamentals of project quality communications stakeholder resource and procurement management, assessing and managing project risk, directing and controlling projects, contemporary project management.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

10. Boston University

Boston University is a private four-year institution located in Boston Massachusetts. There are over 33,000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 10 to 1. According to the US News and World Report, Boston University ranks is the 42nd best school in the nation and also highly for a number of other things including value, innovation, undergraduate engineering, computer science, study abroad, and much more. The university offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications.

Boston university offers an online master of science in project management. This is a 40 credit hour program that is divided into three main component areas: core courses, specialization courses, and elective courses. Some of the courses you will study include financial concepts, global supply chains, quantitative and qualitative decision-making, and the innovation process: developing new products and services. Students generally complete this program in a period of 18 to 24 months. This online degree has been accredited by the project management Institute and is an accredited member of the HACSB international. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

11. Northeastern University

Northeastern University is a private institution that was founded in 1898. The student population is currently over 22,000 and the student to faculty ratio is 14 to 1. Northeastern University offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Report, Northeastern University ranks as the 49th best school in the nation the 11th most innovative school and highly for value, business, computer science, cybersecurity, and much more.

Northeastern University offers an online masters in project management. Students may select to complete this program either full-time or part-time. The duration of the course is 1.5 to 2.5 years. The curriculum is divided into two main component parts, core courses and electives. The core courses include the following: project management foundations, project management practice, project scope management, project risk management, project scheduling and cost planning, project quality management. Students may also elect to focus on a concentration in one of the following areas: agile project management, analytics, construction management, leadership, leading and managing technical projects, organizational communication, project business analysis. This is a highly flexible and customizable program. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of science in project management

12. Penn State World Campus

Penn State University is a public institution located in University Park, Pennsylvania. There are currently over 90,000 students enrolled at Penn State with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1. Penn State offers comprehensive programming as well as professional certifications. According to the US News and World Report, Penn State ranks as the 63rd best school in the nation and the 35th best college for veterans, 23rd top public school and a top school for engineering and computer science business and much more. In recent years, Penn State has developed their Global Campus. This online campus offers a wide number of online degrees and professional certifications.

Penn State world campus offers an online master of project management. This is a 30 credit hour program that has been credited by the AAA CSB as well as a project management Institute. If you’re looking to pursue a career in project management, project management analyst sales manager or a similar career this is the course for you. The program is divided into three main component parts including required courses, elective courses, and a capstone. Do you like to have courses include course material in enterprise modeling, engineering across cultures and nations, engineering product innovation, project team leader ship, project management and marketing linkages, and much more. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online master of project management

13. Florida Institute of Technology

The Florida Institute of Technology FIT is a private institution that was founded in 1958. FIT enrolls over 6000 students and has a student to faculty ratio of 14 to 1. The institution offers degrees for associates, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. This is a doctoral university with high research activity. When it comes to academic offerings, FIT offers programming in the biological and biomedical sciences, business, communication, education, engineering, and much more.

Florida Tech offers a Master of Business Administration in Project Management. This is PMI and GAC accredited. Additionally, this program is 100% online. The degree combines principles and practical applications. The curriculum includes core courses, specialization courses, and a capstone for a total of 36 credit hours. The core courses include: essentials of business development, essentials of business development two, managerial economics, managerial accounting, financial management, organizational behavior, marketing management, and two directed electives. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Master of business administration in project management

14. Minnesota State University Moorhead

Minnesota State University Morehead as a public four-year institution that was founded in 1887. The current student population is over 5,000 and the student-to-faculty ratio is 19 to 1. The university offers associates degrees, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. According to the US News and World Report Minnesota State University Morehead ranks as the 98th best school in the midwest, and the 28th top public school.

The university offers an online project management degree. This online program is certified by the PMI and accredited by the PMI GAC. The university currently offers a bachelors degree in project management. The bachelors degree Includes 48 credits of the core requirements. The core requirememts are as follows: principles of accounting, principles of management, principles of marketing, method improvements, computer applications for technologists, cost analysis, quality management, process leader ship, and much more. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online bachelor’s in project management

15. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a four-year private institution located in Dayton Beach Florida. There are 7000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1. The university offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University ranks as the ninth best school in the region according to the US news and world report. Additionally, the university ranks highly for veterans, undergraduate teaching, innovation, and value.

Embry-Riddle offers a Bachelor of Science in Project Management. The course is divided into three main component parts: general requirements, core requirements, and electives. The project management course includes the following: project management profession, project planning, project risk and control, project management in aviation operations, global project management, managing trouble projects, agile project management, and a project management capstone.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Onlinebachelor’s degree in project management

16. Regis University

Regis University is a private four-year institution located in Denver, Colorado. There are over 6000 students in enrolled at Regis and the student to faculty ratio is 12 to 1. The institution offers bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. Regis currently ranks as the 217th best school in the nation according to the US News and World Report. The university offers a wide array of academic programming including in business, computer and information sciences, education, healthcare, psychology, and the performing arts.

Regis University offers an Undergraduate Certificate in Project Management. The program is online and 12 credit hours to complete. Students will focus on the following areas: process mapping an improvement, project management, conflict management. Additionally students may wish to do the online undergraduate certification in agile management. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online bachelor of science

17. Charleston Southern University

Charleston Southern University is a four-year private institution located in Charleston South, Carolina. There are over 3,000 students enrolled and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13 to 1. Charleston Southern University is ranked regionally as the 62nd best school on the south according to the US news and world report. Additionally, CSU ranks highly for veterans and social mobility. When it comes to academic offerings CSU offers bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. In recent years CSU has offered online programming in the fields of business , health, homeland security and much more.

CSU offers a Bachelor of Science in Project Management. This is an accelerated program with seven week courses. This online degree was designed with full-time working adults in mind. If you are interested in manufacturing, government contracting, construction or projects at a corporate level than this is the program for you. In 2020 US News and World report ranked this program as the 11th best online bachelors program. As part of this curriculum you’ll take courses like: accounting principles for managers, business policy, principles of macroeconomics, projects a strategic initiatives, project planning and implementation, project risk assessment. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online bachelor’s degree in project management

18. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private four-year institution that offers associates, bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees as well as professional certifications. The current student population is over 85,000 and this is an evangelical Christian school. When it comes to academic offerings liberty offers a number of online programs as well as on campus programs including in the following fields: business, education, engineering, health, and more.

Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in business administration. This is a 120-credit hour course that requires on average 3.5 years to complete. Students may transfer up to 75% of the degree. This online program has been accredited by the ACVSP. This online course includes foundational core courses, major courses, and general education courses. As part of the major you will complete the following: financial accounting, managerial accounting, financial statement analysis, business law, international business, principles of management, corporate finance, principles of marketing, human resource management, and much more. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online BSBA in project management

19. Malone University

Malone University is a private institution located in Canton, Ohio. According to the US News and World Report, Malone University ranks as the 71st best school in the region. The student population is 1,524 and the student to faculty ratio is 11 to 1. To support their student success Malone University offers advanced placement credits, credit for life experience, and academic and career counseling. When it comes to academic programming Malone offers on campus and online degrees.

Malone University offers an online bachelor of arts in organizational management. This online degree has been accredited by the a CBSP. This is a rigorous and hands-on degree for students who are interested in a biblical perspective of management. Some of the key topics that you will cover include: problem-solving, control systems, management and leadership, organizational behavior, financial management, human resources, in critical thinking. Students will study the following courses: business finance, group and organizational behavior, business communication, principles of management and leader ship, business statistics, human resource/personnel management, personal values in business ethics. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online bachelor’s in organizational management

20. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private four-year institution located in Saint Leo, Florida. The university offers associates degrees, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, and doctoral degrees. The student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1. According to the US News and World Report St. Louis University ranks as the 26th best school in the region as well as 14th for best college for veterans and fourth for best value school. To support student success, the university offers credit for life experiences as well as academic and career counseling. Their academic offerings include degree programming in business, management marketing and related degrees as well as many others.

Saint Leo University offers a Bachelor of Arts and Business Administration and Project Management. If you’re interested in hospitality, construction, information, technology, healthcare, or simply running your own projects than this program is for you. Some of the classes that you’ll take during this online degree include: quality improvement in management, project teamwork and leadership, contracts and procurement, project risk management, and much more. Additionally students at Saint Leo have the opportunity to gain real world experience through a wide array of internships. For more information and to apply check out their website.

• Program Details
• Degree Type: Online project management specialization

The post The 20 Best Online Project Management Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Whether you’re looking for work on Wall Street or just a finance career that will make you rich, a specialized graduate degree from one of the top 15 master’s in finance degree programs can help you on your journey.

1. University of Pennsylvania

Topping our list of the 15 best master’s in finance degree programs in the United States is the University of Pennsylvania. The private Ivy League institution was established in Philadelphia in 1740 by Founding Father Benjamin Franklin. With a student to faculty ratio of just six to one, more than two-thirds of classes offered at the University of Pennsylvania have fewer than 20 students enrolled. An overwhelming 98 percent of students who begin their college education at the University of Pennsylvania stay there for the duration of their undergraduate studies. At the undergraduate level, the University of Pennsylvania meets 100 percent of student financial need without loans. This financial aid policy makes the school’s nearly $50,000 undergraduate tuition rate surprisingly affordable and allows many students to graduate debt-free. U.S. News & World Report 8^th among the best colleges for veterans, 9^th among national universities and 11^th among the nation’s best value schools.

The University of Pennsylvania is home to the best graduate program in finance in America, according to U.S. News & World Report. It also has the honor of being ranked the best undergraduate program and the 4^th best graduate business school in the nation. USA Today also ranked the school at the top of its list of the best colleges for majoring in finance, noting that its graduates earn an average starting salary of $61,000 and an average mid-career salary of $132,000 – the highest mid-career average of all top business schools. The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1881, has the distinction of being the first collegiate business school in the world. University of Pennsylvania graduate students with an interest in finance pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a major in finance. Their coursework includes required classes in Corporate Finance and Macroeconomics and the Global Economic Environment as well as upper-level finance electives such as investment management, financial derivatives and behavioral finance.

Business College: The Wharton School

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Enrollment: 1,715 students

Tuition: $64,920

2. University of Chicago

Since its founding in 1890, the University of Chicago has cultivated a reputation for excellence in both academics and research. The 5,860 undergraduate students enrolled in the College at the University of Chicago must fulfill a rigorous required core of general education classes as they pursue one of 49 majors. The 9,866 graduate and professional students enrolled at the University of Chicago are spread across six professional schools and five academic divisions in subjects like law, medicine, humanities, biological sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, molecular engineering, public policy and business. At the undergraduate level, the University of Chicago meets 100 percent of demonstrated student financial need, and the school also offers financial assistance to students in its master’s and doctoral programs through merit-based and need-based aid. U.S. News & World Report ranked the university tied for 4^th place among national universities and the best colleges for veterans, as well as 15^th among the best value schools in America.

Not only does the University of Chicago host the second best master’s degree program in finance in the country, but its business college, the Booth School of Business, is tied for second place on U.S. News & World Report’s college rankings lists. At the master’s degree level, Chicago Booth students earn an MBA with one of 13 concentrations, including finance and analytic finance. Chicago Booth’s MBA program is known for its flexibility, with only one required course, Leadership Effectiveness and Development. Each student will take a foundational course of their choice in the subjects of financial accounting, microeconomics and statistics. To develop a breadth of business knowledge, students choose from several course options in subject areas like finance, marketing, operations, management and business environments. The Booth School of Business also offers a Ph.D. program in finance, which combines business studies with coursework in the Department of Economics. Ph.D. in Finance students study the behavior patterns of stocks and bonds prices, investment decisions, corporate governance and financial institution management.

Business College: Booth School of Business

Location: Chicago, IL

Enrollment: 2,509 students

Tuition: $63,980 

3. New York University

Since its founding in 1831, New York University has educated 470,000 alumni spread across more than 180 nations around the world. Today, there are 44,000 students enrolled in New York University’s 17 divisions, making NYU the country’s largest private university. The school has a 93 percent retention rate, which means the vast majority of freshmen stay at NYU for the duration of their undergraduate studies, and 84 percent of NYU students graduate within six years. Students at New York University enjoy small class sizes, with a student to faculty ratio of just 10 to one and fewer than 20 students in most classes. More than half of NYU undergraduate students receive some form of need-based financial aid from the institution, with an average award amount of $24,246. U.S. News & World Report has ranked NYU highly on lists such as National Universities, Best Colleges for Veterans, High School Counselor Rankings and Most Innovative Schools.

The Stern School of Business offers both a Master of Science in Global Finance and an MBA program that includes the option to specialize in finance. The M.S. in Global Finance degree program is offered in conjunction with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and includes required international travel experiences. The full-time MBA program requires students to complete 60 credits, but they have plenty of flexibility to customize their education, since more than half of these credits are elective courses. Possible MBA specializations at NYU include finance, corporate finance, financial instruments and markets, financial systems and analytics and technology-enabled finance practices (FinTech). The Stern School of Business’s MBA program is one of the most selective in the country. NYU also offers a Mathematics in Finance degree option through its Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. U.S. News & World Report ranked NYU’s graduate finance programs third in the nation and the Stern School of Business among the top 20 business schools in America.

Business College: Leonard N. Stern School of Business

Location: New York, NY

Enrollment: 2,339 students

Tuition: $63,720 

4. Stanford University

Stanford University is currently celebrating its 125^th anniversary, having opened in 1891. The private institution is home to a large campus, where 700 major buildings and 97 percent of the undergraduate student population reside on 8,180 acres of land. Despite the campus size, students can expect small class sizes and personalized attention, with a student to faculty ratio of just four to one. As a prominent research university, Stanford’s research budget is $1.22 billion annually. The university encompasses seven schools in the academic subjects of medicine, law, engineering, education, earth sciences, humanities and sciences and, of course, business. Stanford University follows a quarter-based, rather than a semester-based, academic calendar. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Stanford University highly in many categories, including naming the school as:

• 2^nd among the Most Innovative Schools
• Tied for 3^rd among High School Counselor Rankings
• 4^th among Best Value Schools
• Tied for 4^th among National Universities
• Tied for 4^th among Best Colleges for Veterans

The Stanford Graduate School of Business was established in 1925. Graduate students interested in business and finance have options when they choose Stanford for their education. The Stanford MBA program provides general management knowledge but also encourages students to pursue a personalized education plan, using elective courses to study a specific aspect of business – like finance – in-depth. In 2014, Stanford University also introduced a multidisciplinary Master of Science in Mathematical and Computational Finance degree option. This program replaces the M.S. in Financial Mathematics program formerly offered by the School of Humanities & Sciences. The new program covers coursework such as statistics, applied and computational mathematics and financial applications. Stanford University also offers a Ph.D. in Finance degree program for students whose goals are more academically-oriented rather than industry-oriented. Not only does U.S. News & World Report recognize Stanford University’s graduate finance program as 4^th in the nation, but it has also ranked the Stanford Graduate School of Business as tied for the 2^nd best business school.

Business College: The Stanford Graduate School of Business

Location: Stanford, CA

Enrollment: 824 students

Tuition: $64,050

5. Columbia University

With a history of more than 250 years of academic excellence, it’s no wonder Columbia University rounds out the top five graduate finance degree programs in the U.S. When the school was founded in 1754, it was called King’s College, having been established by royal charter of King George II. The school closed briefly during the American Revolution and adopted its current name when it reopened in 1784. Columbia University’s long history makes it the oldest college in New York and the fifth oldest across the nation. U.S. News & World Report ranked Columbia University tied for 3^rd place on its High School Counselor Rankings list, tied for 4^th on its National Universities list and its Best Colleges for Veterans list and 6^th place on its Best Value Schools list. The college is known for small class sizes even at the undergraduate level, where the student to faculty ratio is six to one and more than 80 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

Columbia University offers a couple of different academic options for graduate students interested in finance. The Master of Science in Financial Economics (MSFE) degree program is offered by Columbia Business School’s Finance and Economics Division and provides students with two years of intensive study into the fields of finance and economics. The MSFE program combines MBA and Ph.D. courses. In fact, Columbia University’s MSFE program is rigorous enough that it has a good deal of coursework in common with the Ph.D. program, but is focused more on industry than academics. MSFE students take courses such as:

• Asset Management
• Asset Pricing
• Capital markets
• Corporate finance theory
• Debt markets
• Financial Accounting
• Financial Econometrics
• Finance Theory
• Microeconomic Analysis

Columbia University students can also consider the Master of Arts in Mathematics of Finance (MAFN) degree program, offered by the departments of mathematics and statistics, and the Master of Science in Financial Engineering, offered through the Department of Industrial Engineering and Operations Research.

Business College: Columbia Business School

Location: New York, NY

Enrollment: 1,287 students

Tuition: $65,988

6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Since it was founded in 1861, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has been closely linked with innovation and exploration, particularly in the field of science. The school as a whole has earned recognition nationwide, including coveted rankings on U.S. News & World Report’s lists such as:

• High School Counselor Rankings (tied for 1^st place)
• Most Innovative Schools (3^rd place)
• Best Value Schools (5^th place)
• National Universities (7^th place)
• Best Colleges for Veterans (7^th place)

In addition to its schools of science and engineering, MIT also hosts a school of architecture and planning, a school of humanities, arts and social sciences and – of course – a school of management. Using technology and language from each of these disciplines to develop world-changing solutions to problems remains the mission of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Despite the seemingly high tuition cost, MIT awards need-based scholarships to more than half of the schools’ undergraduate attendees, and one-third of undergrads attend MIT tuition-free.

Does it surprise you to find a technical institute like MIT on a list of the best finance programs? The private research university might be better known for its reputation in fields like science, technology and engineering, but its Sloan School of Management has built its own prestigious reputation in the business world. U.S. News & World Report ranks MIT tied for 5^th place among the best business schools and its graduate finance program 6^th in the nation.  Students in MIT’s Master of Finance (MFin) program choose from a 12-month and 18-month study option. Compared to MIT’s MBA in finance program, the MFin degree option is a more specialized program and is focused on developing the skills of “early professionals.” Students can choose to complete an optional concentration in capital markets, corporate finance or financial engineering. MIT offers a personalized curriculum that allows students to supplement core requirements and advance subjects with elective courses that can be taken within or outside the finance department.

Business College: Sloan School of Management

Location: Cambridge, MA

Enrollment: 806 students

Tuition: $65,446

7. University of California—Berkeley

The State Constitution of California is what first planted the seeds for the founding of a university that would bring “glory and happiness” to “advancing generations.” In 1868, this dream came to fruition with the founding of the University of California. The public institution developed out of the joining of Oakland’s College of California, a private school, and the new Agricultural, Mining and Mechanical Arts College. The University of California—Berkeley has been named the top public school in America by U.S. News & World Report, which also ranked the school highly on its lists of High School Counselor Rankings (tied for 14^th), #20 in National Universities (20^th) and Most Innovative Schools (tied for 21^st). Admissions at the University of California—Berkeley are competitive, with just 17.3 percent of applications accepted. The school offers 277 degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including both academic programs and professional programs.

The graduate finance degree program offered by the University of California—Berkeley is the Master of Financial Engineering (MFE). Don’t let the inclusion of the word “engineering” in the program title fool you. The one-year degree is designed for professionals in the finance industry and offers the skills needed to find success working at a commercial bank or investment bank. Coursework includes investments, derivatives, financial institutions, qualitative and empirical methods in finance, calculus and asset pricing, fixed income markets, credit risk modeling, dynamic asset management, behavioral finance, high-frequency finance, finance ethics and regulations, financial practice, international finance, securities markets, financial risk management and opportunities in the financial world. They must also gain hands-on experience through applied finance projects and a mandatory 10- to 12-week internship. U.S. News & World Report ranks both the University of California—Berkeley’s Haas School of Business and its graduate finance program 7^th in the nation. 

Business College: Haas School of Business

Location: Berkeley, CA

Enrollment: 1,301 students

Tuition: $53,907 in-state; $55,968 out-of-state

8. Harvard University

Harvard University is the kind of Ivy League school that everyone in the United States has heard of, so it’s no surprise that the prestigious private institution would make our top 15 list. Founded in 1636, Harvard isn’t just the oldest school on this list, but “the oldest institution of higher education in the United States.” Approximately 14,500 of Harvard University’s 21,000 enrolled students – more than two-thirds of the entire student body – are graduate and professional students. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the college highly on lists such as:

• High School Counselor Rankings (1^st place)
• National Universities (2^nd place)
• Best Value Schools (2^nd place)
• Best Colleges for Veterans (2^nd place)
• Most Innovative Schools (tied for 8^th place)

In addition to its reputation for academic excellence, Harvard University is known for small class sizes even at the undergraduate level, generous financial aid packages and having the world’s largest academic library.

Like the institution as a whole, Harvard Business School has earned high honors. U.S. News & World Report rated it the best business school in America and ranked its graduate finance program 8^th in the nation. Students in Harvard University’s MBA in finance program start their education with a year-long required field experience that emphasizes leadership development, a global business perspective and hands-on learning. Students take required courses in finance, marketing, leadership and organizational behavior, financial reporting and control, technology and operations management, strategy, corporate accountability, entrepreneurial management and the intersection between business, government and the international economy. Students then use elective courses to develop an area of focus, such as finance. New MBA students at Harvard University work closely with their “section” of 90 peers, with whom they take all first-year courses. About 80 percent of students in Harvard University’s MBA program choose to live on campus in the Harvard Business School dormitories, and the demand for on-campus living space is so high that student accommodations are assigned by a lottery system.

Business College: The Business School at Harvard University

Location: Boston, MA

Enrollment: 1,872 students

Tuition: $61,225

9. University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan dates back to 1817. At its founding, the school was located in Detroit and called the University of Michigania, or Catholepistemiad. The institution took on its current name in 1821 and moved to its current Ann Arbor campus in 1837. Since these early beginnings, the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor has flourished. While its first classes included just seven students taught by only two professors, the school now educates more than 43,000 students and employs more than 3,096 tenure-track professors. The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor is now home to 19 colleges spanning academic areas from the liberal arts to medicine and law. U.S. News & World Report ranked the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor 29^th among the top national universities. In addition naming the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor’s graduate finance program ninth in the nation, the publication also ranked the school’s undergraduate business program fourth and its graduate business program tied for 12^th place.

The Ross School of Business was founded in 1924 and currently boasts 45,000 alumni spread across 88 nations. In addition to its prestigious academic reputation, the Ross School of Business’s MBA programs include one-on-one personalized executive coaching. This is just one of the factors that lead to 97 percent of University of Michigan—Ann Arbor MBA students getting job offers within just three months of graduating. At the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor, students take a Fast Track in Finance as part of their MBA program. They can choose from two academic paths within their finance track. The University of Michigan’s other campuses also offer graduate programs in finance and business. The University of Michigan—Flint also offers an MBA with a concentration in finance option. At the University of Michigan—Dearborn, the College of Business offers a Master of Science in Finance degree program that allows students to concentrate in either corporate finance or investments.

Business College: Stephen M. Ross School of Business

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Enrollment: 1,299 students

Tuition: $56,590 in-state; $61,590 out-of-state

10. Northwestern University

Northwestern University’s tradition of academic excellence dates back all the way to the 1850s. The idea of an institution that would serve the entire Northwest Territory was first conceived in 1850. The school’s nine founders together purchased the land to begin its construction in 1853, and in 1855, the one-building institution opened its doors to a tiny inaugural class of 10 students. Today, Northwestern University’s main campus in Evanston is 240 acres, with campuses in Chicago and Qatar as well. More than 21,000 students attend the institution, which is now home to a dozen colleges. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Northwestern University overall as tied for 12^th among the top national universities and 19^th among the best value schools. At the graduate level, the private research college has achieved high rankings in many academic fields, including business, law, engineering, education, medicine, psychology, economics, history and many other subjects of study.

Students who choose Northwestern University for their finance education will graduate with a master of business administration (MBA) degree. The finance department at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management offers two MBA specializations, the finance major and analytical finance. The finance major offers a broader education that prepares students for both management generalist and finance specialist career roles. The analytical finance track focuses on technical aspects of financial markets and is intended for students who want to transition into highly specialized roles in the finance industry. The school also offers a financial doctoral program for students who want to go on to earn their Ph.D. as well as executive programs in the discipline of finance.  In addition to ranking the school’s graduate finance program 10^th in the nation, U.S. News & World Report also ranked Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management tied for fifth place among the best business schools.

Business College: Kellogg School of Management

Location: Evanston, IL

Enrollment: 1,960 students

Tuition: $64,059

11. University of California—Los Angeles

In 1919, the University of California first opened its “Southern Branch,” which would become the University of California at Los Angeles in 1927. At its founding, the school was known for its two-year undergraduate training program for aspiring teachers. Today, UCLA has branched out significantly. The public institution now offers more than 125 undergraduate majors and 80 minors as well as close to 150 graduate programs. U.S. News & World Report ranked UCLA second in the nation among the top public schools, tied for 18^th place among the best colleges for veterans and tied for 23^rd place among national universities. Outside the classroom, the UCLA is known for its research opportunities and its service to the community. For more than half a decade, the UCLA has been awarded close to a million dollars in research grants annually, and it is home to 290 research centers. As the UCLA nears its 100^th anniversary, the school still prizes creativity, discovery and optimism as some of its main values.

In addition to ranking the University of California—Los Angeles as the 15^th best business school, U.S. News & World Report also ranked its graduate finance program 11^th in the country. Students in UCLA’s Master of Financial Engineering (MFE) program complete 52 quarter units over just 13 and a half months. They complete classes in investment fundamentals, financial accounting, econometrics, corporate finance, stochastic calculus, empirical methods in finance, derivatives, financial risk management, fixed income markets, computational methods in finance, quantitative asset management and credit markets. A summer internship is required, as is a hands-on applied finance project completed with a team. Because the program is based on financial engineering rather than simply the study of finance, it stands out from many other graduate finance programs. UCLA defines financial engineering as “the mathematical modeling, quantitative research and analysis involved in pricing, selling, trading and investing in a wide range of financial instruments,” which is why students in this program take more mathematics courses.

Business College: Anderson School of Management

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Enrollment: 1,696 students

Tuition: $50,517 in-state; $54,644 out-of-state

12. Ohio State University

Ohio State University was founded in 1870. Today, the public institution has more than 44,000 undergraduate students enrolled. The school also educates graduate students in fields such as business, law, medicine, nursing, science, social science, engineering, education, public affairs and fine arts. While Ohio State University’s main campus is located in Columbus, the school also encompasses research centers and campuses across the state. U.S. News & World Report has consistently ranked Ohio State University among the 20 best public colleges in the nation, and the school is currently tied for 16^th place on that list. The publication has also ranked Ohio State University tied for 27^th place among the best graduate business schools, tied for 42^nd place among the best colleges for veterans and tied for 52^nd place among the top national universities. In addition to its excellent academic reputation, the institution is known for its more than 1,000 extracurricular organizations and is home to the Ohio State Buckeyes collegiate football team.

Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business was founded in 1916 and recently celebrated its 100^th anniversary. The Financial Times ranked Ohio State University’s Specialized Master in Finance degree among the best pre-experience master’s degree programs in finance across the nation. The program takes just nine months to complete and can prepare students for success in finance careers with such highly-regarded companies as Nationwide, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo. Students who complete the program are well-equipped to attain their Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Financial Risk Manager (FRM) designations. Students take core classes in corporate finance, data analysis, economics, leadership and derivatives as well as a team project in their final semester. They can choose a specialization from four academic tracks: corporate finance, investment management, risk management and real estate. Of the 30 semester hours students spend earning their degree, 15 hours are electives that allow students to choose their own academic path and complete their specialization.

Business College: Max M. Fisher College of Business

Location: Columbus, OH

Enrollment: 552 students

Tuition: $30,120 in state; $49,592 out of state

13. Tulane University

When Tulane University was first founded in 1834, it was strictly a medical school. The college has come a long way, now offering more than 70 undergraduate majors. The downtown New Orleans university first established its business school, then called the College of Commerce and Business Administration, in 1914. Today, that business college is known as the A. B. Freeman School of Business at Tulane University, and it’s tied for 68^th place among the best graduate business schools in the nation, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. The publication has also ranked Tulane University tied for 41^st among national universities and tied for 33^rd place among the best colleges for veterans. As one of just 62 schools that make up the Association of American Universities, the private university provides exciting opportunities for research. Tulane University is also big on community service, going so far as to make it a required part of its undergraduate curriculum.

The Freeman School of Business at Tulane University isn’t only accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) – it’s a founding member of the prestigious accrediting organization. Its Master of Finance (MFIN) program is also a CFA Program Partner of the CFA Institute, making it an excellent choice for students who aspire to earn their Chartered Financial Analyst credential. The 34-credit program takes 11 to 18 months to complete over a fall, spring and summer semester. Students can specialize in energy or banking and financial services.

In addition to their specialized classes, Master of Finance students at Tulane University take coursework in subjects such as:

• Corporate Finance
• Equity Analysis
• Financial Communications
• Financial Reporting
• Fixed Income Analytics and Models
• Investments and Asset Pricing
• Risk Management and Applications
• Valuation

Financial Times ranked Tulane University’s Master of Finance program among the top pre-experience master’s in finance degree programs in the world.

Business College: A. B. Freeman School of Business

Location: New Orleans, LA

Enrollment: 916 students

Tuition: $48,800

14. University of Rochester

The University of Rochester is a well-regarded private research school accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. When the institution was first founded in 1850, it was a Baptist university, though today it maintains no religious affiliation. Even at the undergraduate level, the University of Rochester is known for its unique curriculum, offering students the chance to build their own customized education plan. With “no required subjects,” students can choose courses from broad academic “clusters” so they have the freedom to study the subject areas they are most passionate about without worrying about satisfying rigid general education requirements. The school as a whole has earned high rankings from publications such as U.S. News & World Report, including ranking 26^th among the best value schools, 27^th among the best colleges for veterans, 33^rd among the top national universities and tied for the 39^th spot on its list of the best business schools.

Simon Business School’s Master of Science in Finance degree program includes coursework in investments, corporate finance, capital budgeting, fixed income securities, economics, statistics, financial statement analysis and communicating business decisions. Students of the University of Rochester’s M.S. in Finance program have options. Those who are most concerned with earning their degree quickly can complete the graduation requirements in just 10 months. Students who want the chance to gain work experience and build professional connections can choose an internship track, instead – and still complete their degrees within 17 months. The University of Rochester even offers a brief nine-month program that allows students who have earned a more general MBA degree to develop the specialized skills they would find in a master’s in finance program. The Financial Times ranks the University of Rochester’s M.S. in Finance program among the top five pre-experience degree programs in the nation. Simon Business School is also responsible for publishing the Journal of Financial Economics, the Journal of Monetary Economics and the Journal of Accounting and Economics.

Business College: Simon Business School

Location: Rochester, NY

Graduate Business Enrollment: 209 full-time (185 part-time) students

Tuition: $46,000

15. Illinois Institute of Technology

Completing our list of the top 15 master’s in finance degree programs is the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech, or IIT). While you may not expect to find a technical institute ranked among the best master’s in finance programs, IIT’s program is unique. Illinois Tech’s history dates back to 1893, then the school first opened as Armour Institute and focused on coursework in architecture, engineering, chemistry and library science. In 1895, another nearby school, Lewis Institute, was founded, offering studies in science, engineering and the liberal arts. The two schools merged in 1940 to create the high-ranking private technical university flourishing today. IIT has earned institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Illinois Tech is also a research school. In addition to the Institute for Food Safety and Health, the Pritzker Institute of Biomedical Science and Engineering, the Wanger Institute for Sustainable Energy Research and the independent nonprofit IIT Research Institute, the school is also home to 21 business tenants at University Technology Park at Illinois Tech. This facility combines research, business and technology, housing tenants in labs, offices and incubators and providing the resources they need to grow and succeed.

The Stuart School of Business was founded in 1969 and has earned specialized accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International. IIT’s Stuart School of Business offers a Master of Science in Finance degree available in full-time and part-time formats. Full-time students typically complete the 33-credit hour program in two years, while part-time students are allowed to take up to five years. Students can choose from a dozen concentrations in subjects like corporate finance, alternative investments, risk management, high-frequency trading and financial programming. During their studies, students take the following six core courses:

• Financial Modeling
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Futures, Options, and OTC Derivatives
• Mathematics with Financial Applications
• Statistical Analysis in Financial Markets
• Valuation and Portfolio Management

The school also offers two dual degree options, the M.S. Finance/Master of Business Administration and the M.S. Finance/Juris Doctor. The Financial Times ranked IIT’s program third in the nation among pre-experience master’s in finance degree programs.

Business College: Stuart School of Business

Location: Chicago, IL

Graduate Business Enrollment: 1,003 students 

Tuition: $28,463

Editor’s Note: This ranking is intended as a guide to help prospective finance students start their research so they can ultimately find the right graduate school for their needs and goals. Tuition rates, enrollment data, school history, quality rankings and other facts were provided by U.S. News & World Report, the Financial Times, USA Today and the individual schools’ websites.

For Further Reading:

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Policy Analyst?

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Crime Analyst?

The post Top 15 Master’s in Finance Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Building degrees are wide and varied and in today’s economy a great bet for a range of employment opportunities including starting your own building business, consulting, or working for someone else.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to “put things together” and wondered how the objects that surround us daily were made, a building degree could be a great fit for you.

Below we’re going to look at a wide range of building degrees, including degrees in civil engineering, architecture, construction management, construction technology, and other degree programs.

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

• The Best Graduate Architecture Programs
• The Best Undergraduate Architecture Programs
• What Degree Do I Need To Become a Drafter?
• What Degree Do I Need To Become a Civil Engineer?
• What Degree Do I Need To Become a Land Surveyor
• The Best “Bang For Your Buck” Associates Degrees
• What is the Difference Between a Civil Engineering Degree and an Architecture Degree?

Still need more information? Be sure to read through our guide on building degrees below!

Table of Contents

• What is a Building Degree?
• Can I Get a Building Degree Online?
• How Do I Gain Admission To A Building Degree?
• What Can I Do With a Building Degree?

What is a Building Degree?

Building degrees are a general category of higher education degrees that include:

• Architecture
• Civil Engineering
• Construction Management
• Construction Technology
• And Related Disciplines

When looking at this range of disciplines, building degrees are available at the associates through doctoral levels (as well as in the form of many professional certifications).

Below we’ll walk through the four most common disciplines related to building sciences.

First, are the masterminds behind nearly every building you’ve ever set foot in, architects. Architecture as an academic discipline begins with pre-professional programs at the bachelor’s level. Typically a bachelor’s in architecture takes 5 years for completion, and can be used to jump into the job title of “architect.”

The major subjects studied within a bachelor’s level architecture degree include CAD drawing, architecture history, construction method, steel structural designs, and green design principles.

At the master’s level, architecture is often bundled with pre-professional programs. These “4 + 2” programs as they’re commonly called end up with students graduating with a bachelor’s and master’s in architecture in six years, as opposed to spending 5 years just on a pre-professional bachelor’s in architecture degree.

At the master’s level, students are more likely to be able to move directly into an “architect role.” Students in these programs study a selection of the following:

• Architectural Theory
• Formal Analysis of Structures
• Visualization and Computation
• A Multi-semester Building Project
• Environmental Design
• Urban Design
• An Advanced Design Studio
• And Management of Architectural Projects

For students without a bachelor’s in architecture, master’s in architecture often take three years of full-time study.

Our second common “building” discipline is civil engineering. Civil engineers are often employed in building communal or public projects including roads, dams, bridges, and the like. Civil engineers work for public and private entities and are found in nearly every location. Approval of new construction projects that many individuals will use almost always includes consultation with a civil engineer.

The primary degree that prepares one for civil engineering is a bachelor’s in civil engineering or civil engineering technology. Upon completion of a bachelor’s degree, students prepare for a licensure exam and then are required to take continuing education credits for the remainder of their practicing years.

Courses that are commonly taken in a bachelor’s in civil engineering (or civil engineering technology) include statistics, mechanics and systems of engineering, advanced math courses, fluid dynamics, physics, and a range of fieldwork requirements.

As with all engineering disciplines, master’s and doctor of engineering (D.Eng.) degrees are also available, though not required to land a job as an engineer of this type.

Our third degree type is construction management. Construction management degrees are available at the associates through the master’s level. These interdisciplinary degrees take from common degree types such as management, business, and construction-centered courses.

Specific coursework that students may take in a construction management degree include: mathematics, natural sciences, business administration, structural behavior, architecture, structural systems, construction methods, and basic technology courses.

At the master’s level, courses typically require 1-2 years and may come with industry certifications in sub disciplines such as historic restoration, green building, real estate, and so forth.

Our final degree category within building degrees is that of construction technology. Today, there are many subdisciplines within the construction industry that require advanced tech skills.

This degree type may be obtained at the associates through masters level, though most commonly offered at the associates level. It is generally considered a vocational or professional degree that is focused on applied (job-centered) learning.

Some of the most common courses that you may take if you pursue a degree in construction technology include:

• Construction Material Strengths and Measurements
• Surveying Equipment
• AutoCAD Applications
• Mechanics of Drafting and Engineering
• Technical Drawing
• Computer Applications in Construction
• Intro to Construction Technology
• Construction Materials and Methods

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

• The Best Graduate Architecture Programs
• The Best Undergraduate Architecture Programs
• What Degree Do I Need To Become a Drafter?
• What Degree Do I Need To Become a Civil Engineer?
• What Degree Do I Need To Become a Land Surveyor
• The Best “Bang For Your Buck” Associates Degrees
• What is the Difference Between a Civil Engineering Degree and an Architecture Degree?

Can I Get a Building Degree Online?

Building occurs in-person, on-site, but also in offices, meetings, and using drafting programs. Keep this in mind, when seeking out a building degree. That building is in many ways literally a “brick and mortar” experience. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t quality building degrees that are available online. Just that many programs do require an in-person component or field experience.

With that said, you can find fully online and fully in-person building degrees. It depends on the degree and the school offering the program.

While you’re choosing whether you want to pursue a degree online or in-person, you should be aware of some of the following terminology.

1. 1. If a program is a hybrid program, you’ll need to attend some on-campus events but a sizable portion of the program will be online. Hybrid can mean you’re expected to come to campus once a week, or once a year. So make sure you know what exactly the program you’re interested in means by the term hybrid.
   2. Fully online programs will often advertise the fact that they are fully online. This means that you do not need to attend any on-campus events including orientation or graduation. A great number of online programs actually include some hybrid components, so if a program you are interested in does not explicitly disclose that they’re 100% online, inquire.
   3. Synchronous online courses mean that you attend an online course at the same time as your classmates. Similarly to an in-person course, everyone “shows up” at the same time. Only the course is presented online.
   4. Asynchronous online courses involve logging on when you want to watch videos and perform course-related tasks. There will likely still be due dates, and you’ll still communicate with classmates and the professor. It’s just a more flexible format in which to take courses online

While more and more students do have a great student experience studying online, it’s not for everyone. You should do your research as to the pros and cons of attending your specific program online.

Some of the most common pros and cons of online education include the following:
Pros:

1. 1. • There are lower fees in many online degrees.
      • You don’t have to move or leave your job for an online degree.
      • Asynchronous programs allow you great flexibility.
      • You graduate with an identical degree.

Cons:

1. 1. • More self direction required for online degrees.
      • More difficult to meet classmates or attend networking events.
      • Lower level of support services (often).
      • Lack of college or grad school “experience.'”

With all that said, online universities work well for many students. And there are a wide range of online universities that all provide different experiences.

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

1. 1. • The Best Graduate Architecture Programs
      • The Best Undergraduate Architecture Programs
      • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Drafter?
      • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Civil Engineer?
      • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Land Surveyor
      • The Best “Bang For Your Buck” Associates Degrees
      • What is the Difference Between a Civil Engineering Degree and an Architecture Degree?

How Do I Gain Admission To A Building Degree?

Building degrees are no exception to general admission policies depending on the degree level you’re pursuing.

Starting with the lowest higher education degree level, associates degree programs often offer open enrollment. This doesn’t mean that you can just show up, but that they admit all applicants that meet certain prerequisites.

Typically those prerequisites include a satisfactory completion of an application packet as well as the submission of transcripts to show graduation from high school.

At the bachelor’s level, there’s greater variability in what is expected of successful applicants. Some schools have open admission policies similar to many community colleges, while others are quite competitive in their application process.

Common components required for admission to bachelor’s-level building degrees include the submission of a Federal financial aid application (FAFSA), a standardized college admission test score (ACT or SAT), transcripts, as well as the filling out of an application packet. Transcripts are used to determine that you did indeed graduate from a high school, and that you have achieved a minimum GPA requirement. Most commonly, schools require students to have gotten at or above a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA. The most competitive programs may require as high as a 3.75 GPA for admissions.

Master’s-level building programs typically require GRE test results, proof that you’ve made arrangements for paying for the program, transcripts, and resumes. Transcripts are used to determine that you are a graduate of a regionally accredited undergraduate institution. Resumes are often used to fulfill work requirements and to provide information that may not have surfaced elsewhere in the application. At the graduate level, students may take out up to the full cost of attendance in Federal student loans. Other common payment routes include employer pay and self pay.

Two noteworthy differences are that construction management master’s degrees typically require GRE scores for admissions. And architecture bachelor’s degrees may require additional application measures as they are often competitive and intensive courses of study.

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

1. 1. • The Best Graduate Architecture Programs
      • The Best Undergraduate Architecture Programs
      • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Drafter?
      • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Civil Engineer?
      • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Land Surveyor
      • The Best “Bang For Your Buck” Associates Degrees
      • What is the Difference Between a Civil Engineering Degree and an Architecture Degree?
      • What Civil Engineering Courses Will I Have to Take for a Degree in Civil Engineering?

What Can I Do With a Building Degree?

Finally, what you’ve been waiting for. Well, the short answer is that building degrees can take you into many roles (particularly when coupled with experience). There are many construction firm owners that hold associates degrees in building technology. There are small business owners that are architects, and there are highly sought after construction technologists.

Particularly in an expanding economy, real estate and development opportunities are all over the place.

Some of the most common roles include:

1. 1. • Building Science Engineer
      • Civil Engineer
      • Construction Technologist
      • Site Supervisor
      • Architect
      • Drafters
      • Real Estate Developer
      • And Cost Estimator

Working our way down the list, building science engineers (also called construction engineers) are generally civil engineers that actually oversee construction work. While some civil engineers oversee plans from their home office, construction engineers are commonly “on the ground” and helping to oversee some of the most crucial structural aspects of building roads, bridges, and buildings.

The average salary for building science engineers is currently close to $90,000. Though many construction engineers may eventually go out and start their own consulting businesses to bring in much more money.

Civil Engineers are one of the most common types of engineers and are involved with nearly every construction type. In particular, infrastructure projects are within the purview of civil engineers including dams, harbors, bridges, roads, as well as large buildings that need to be able to withstand a variety of natural events.

Job duties of civil engineers include performing feasibility and technical studies, the management of budgets, overseeing construction projects, legal compliance, utilizing a range of advanced software for design and calculations, ordering materials, and generally being the “expert” for building projects.

The average salary for civil engineers is presently $91,790, with more senior engineers easily making over $100,000.

Construction technologists (also known as construction specialists depending on the role) are responsible for some facet of operations within a construction environment. Generally these specialists will focus on one area of construction tasks. Perhaps that’s heavy machinery operation, perhaps it’s electronic systems within building, and the list goes on.

While average salaries vary depending on what area of construction technology, many construction specialists make close to $60,000 a year.

Site supervisors are the day-to-day logistics and human resources managers for building sites. Responsibilities of site supervisors include managing orders of materials, ensuring compliance of workers, hiring and firing of construction workers, overseeing subcontractors, ensuring a project stays on budget, and generally providing leadership to ensure that projects are completed in a satisfactory measure. Generally, site supervisors have worked in the construction industry for 5-10 years.

The average salary for site supervisors in construction settings is presently $70,067.

Architects play a role in designing and approving designs for nearly every building projects. These specialists must attend rigorous 5 year pre-professional programs, or hold master’s degrees in architecture. Additionally, professional licensure exams are required to be able to practice as an architect.

Job requirements of this role include preparing and proposing designs for clients, playing advisor roles, coordinating subcontractor work, periodic visits to building sites to assess progress, and the creation of detailed drawings and calculations for building. The average salary for architects in the United States is currently $76,100.

Drafters work in architecture and engineering firms in the public and private sector. These professionals are skilled at converting the drawings of engineers and architects into workable technical drawings that guide construction. Typically drafters specialize in one aspect of engineering including civil, electrical, architectural, or mechanical drawings.

Drafters typically only require associate’s degrees, and earn an average salary of over $55,000.

Real Estate Developers play a hybrid role of investor, manager, salesperson, and designer. While real estate developer positions typically mean you run your own business, these are also roles within established real estate companies. Typical duties include the identification of finished or unfinished properties, planning for how to make improvements or repairs on said properties, and go-to-market strategies once improvements to the property are made.

While the highest paid real estate developers have earned billions of dollars in their trade, the average salary for a real estate developer not running their own company is presently $91,333.

Cost estimators are specialists in construction logistics. Common job tasks include reviewing technical documentation and project planning documents to ascertain the viability of plans. They may provide detailed cost lists or documentation on how materials will get to the work site, what temporary aid is needed in construction, and potential hang-ups to do with logistics in construction. Cost estimators should also be good communicators as they often have to interface with a wide variety of stake holders.

The average salary for cost estimators is presently $54,026.

Finally, construction worker jobs can also benefit from building degrees. While you don’t need a degree to get your foot in the door as a construction worker, furthering your education can help you move into specialized or supervisorial roles.

Besides technical skills needed for demolition, construction, and tasks such as the laying of concrete and operation of machinery, construction workers must be team players, willing to learn, and decent at communication. Construction workers that enhance their education to some degree may quickly find themselves promoted to foreman, IT specialist, or roles such as building inspector or cost estimator.

The average salary for construction workers is presently $38,890.

Additional jobs that building degrees will likely prepare you for include:

1. 1. • Construction Worker
      • Building Inspector
      • Foreman
      • Among Others

Think you may be interested in a building degree? Be sure to check out some of our related content including rankings of the best building degree programs out there.

1. • The Best Graduate Architecture Programs
   • The Best Undergraduate Architecture Programs
   • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Drafter?
   • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Civil Engineer?
   • What Degree Do I Need To Become a Land Surveyor
   • The Best “Bang For Your Buck” Associates Degrees
   • What is the Difference Between a Civil Engineering Degree and an Architecture Degree?
   • Architect vs Engineer: What Is the Benefit of an Engineering Degree Over an Architecture Degree?

The post What Can I Do With a Building Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

How to Evaluate a College’s Hospitality and Hotel Management Program

To select the best hospitality or hotel management program, research the program’s accreditation and credentials, specialized curriculum and course offerings, and industry-experienced faculty. You should also scrutinize the quality of facilities and partnerships, career-focused student organizations and support services, the availability of internships and externships, and overall costs and expenses.

A college’s hotel management and hospitality program should possess a blend of academic excellence and real-world experience. Here’s how you can guarantee a robust curriculum and strong industry connections that can set you up for leadership roles in the field.

1. Check for Accreditation and Credentials

Accreditation is the hallmark of excellence for hospitality and hotel management programs. Selecting an accredited program ensures the education meets industry standards and fosters trust among future employers.

Recognized Accrediting Bodies

When evaluating hospitality programs, verifying the accrediting body is crucial. The following are respected organizations in the field:

• ACPHA (Accreditation Commission for Programs in Hospitality Administration)
• CHEA-approved regional bodies like the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)

Program Accreditation Status

Verifying this status is a non-negotiable step in choosing a reputable hotel management and hospitality program.

• Visit the program’s official website; they should prominently display their accreditation.
• Check the accreditor’s website to confirm the program’s current status.

2. Review the Curriculum and Specializations

Whenever we help incoming first-year students choose a hospitality or hotel management course, we emphasize the importance of comparing curriculum and specializations.

Core Curriculum Overview

We recommend scrutinizing a program’s core curriculum to ensure it delivers comprehensive knowledge in critical areas of hospitality. The core should typically include:

• Hotel operations: A deep dive into front and back-office operations.
• Customer service: Training in guest relations and customer satisfaction.
• Business management: Foundational business principles applied to hospitality.

Specialization Options

Specialization options let you customize your education according to your interests and career goals. Check if the program offers areas such as:

• Event planning: Focus on logistics and management of various events.
• Food and beverage management: Insights into managing F&B services.
• Tourism management: Education on travel industry dynamics and management practices.

Industry Relevance

We give importance to how well the curriculum aligns with industry skillset expectations. Effective programs should:

• Bridge theory and practice: Ensure practical application of learned concepts through internships.
• Monitor trends: Regularly update the curriculum to reflect the evolving nature of the hospitality industry.
• Engage with professionals: Invite industry leaders to share real-world insights with students.

3. Inquire About Faculty Expertise and Industry Experience

Look closely at the faculty credentials. It’s crucial for instructors to possess academic prowess and significant industry experience.

This combination assures that the course content is theoretically sound and practically relevant. To gauge the depth of expertise, prospective students should consider:

• Academic qualifications and teaching experience
• Professional background in hospitality sectors
• Contributions to industry publications or conferences
• Experience in various hospitality roles enriches teaching
• Direct industry insights provide real-world learning opportunities
• Industry connections can aid in student placements

4. Inspect the Facilities and Amenities

Pay close attention to the quality and variety of facilities and amenities available. These are vital features, as they contribute directly to the practical learning experience of students.

Off-Campus Resources

Look for connections with local hotels and event spaces that provide students with real-world experiences. Here’s what to look for:

• Partnerships with local hotels: Opportunities for internships or hands-on training.
• Event collaboration: Working with local businesses on actual events to learn beyond the classroom.

On-Campus Resources

The on-campus resources of a program often give me insights into the commitment a college has toward hospitality education. Significant on-campus amenities include:

• Dedicated learning facilities: Modern classrooms and computer labs with industry-specific software.
• Practical laboratories: Fully operational mock hotel rooms or on-site restaurants for applied learning.

5. Look for College Organizations and Extracurricular Activities

Among the key elements to consider in evaluating hotel and hospitality programs is the range of college organizations and extracurricular activities. These groups can be pivotal in providing hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and personality traits you need in the hospitality sector.

• Student-run restaurants or hotels: These facilities give students the invaluable experience of working in a real-world environment.
• Hospitality-focused fraternities or sororities: These organizations can facilitate industry connections and foster camaraderie among students.
• Event planning committees: Helping to organize campus events can offer essential organizational and execution experience.

6. Determine Externships and Career Services

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 15 million people work in the hospitality industry in the United States as of December 2021. Checking the practical experiences and career support from a college program can give you a head start in this highly competitive industry.

• Quality of externship programs: We suggest looking for programs that align with your career ambitions. See if the college has partnerships with reputable hotels and hospitality businesses. Lastly, get feedback from former students about their experiences.
• Career placement success rate: When evaluating the efficacy of a college’s program post-graduation, we focus on the program’s historical placement rates. Know if there are strong network connections within the industry. It also helps if there are dedicated career services to assist you with job searches and interview preparation.

7. Compare Costs and Expenses

For general hospitality management programs, the median tuition cost at in-state public colleges is around $6,700, whereas fees may reach up to $30,700 at out-of-state private schools.

Tuition is the primary expense, although you should also account for costs in these aspects:

• Books
• Supplies
• Uniform
• Lab fees
• Housing
• Travel or transportation

Related Questions

How Do Hospitality and Hotel Management Programs Differ Between Colleges?

Hotel management and hospitality programs differ in curriculum focus, faculty experience, and hands-on training opportunities. Some colleges may emphasize practical skills in operational areas of hospitality. Meanwhile, others lean towards a more theoretical approach that includes business management components.

What Are the Top Factors That Define a Quality Hospitality and Hotel Management College?

A quality program typically stands out with accredited courses, strong industry connections, and a solid track record of graduate employment. Internship opportunities often distinguish a college’s commitment to immersive learning experiences.

Can You Pursue a Hospitality Management Degree Online and Receive the Same Quality Education as In-Person Programs?

You can receive a comparable education online, with many programs offering curricula that mirror their on-campus counterparts. Online programs provide flexibility while maintaining rigorous standards and providing interaction with industry-experienced faculty.

Conclusion

Understanding how to evaluate these programs properly can help you make informed decisions about your education. A robust program can set the stage for a successful and fulfilling career in the hospitality sector. With these tips, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and connections to launch a rewarding career in this exciting industry.

The post How to Evaluate a College’s Hospitality and Hotel Management Program appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us – Winston Churchill

Civil engineering is the design, development, and maintenance of infrastructure. In America, we’re facing significant infrastructure issues. These issues can be seen in our airports, train systems, bridges, roads, and water systems. From the Rust Belt to major cities like New York and Los Angeles, there are comprehensive infrastructure challenges that must be addressed. We’ve all heard about Flint, Michigan’s water crisis, but throughout the country, there are areas where people can’t depend on clean, dependable running water.

This is just one of the challenges facing the modern civil engineer. Fortunately, civil engineers have a long track record of beating seemingly insurmountable odds to create safe and sustainable projects that markedly improve the lives of anyone who utilizes or relies on them.

One great example of a civil engineering success is the Qingdao Haiwan Bridge. Built in 2011 the bridge is 26.4 miles long, making it the longest bridge in the world based on its aggregate length. It took 10,000 workers four years to build and required 450,000 tons of steel along with 3 million cubic yards of concrete. It was designed to withstand earthquakes up to 8.0 on the Richter scale, impacts from 300,000-ton vessels, as well as typhoons.

These massive civil engineering projects aren’t new, and in fact, some of the historical accomplishments in the field are extremely impressive, especially when you consider the times and places they happened in. Consider the Panama Canal. In the 1600’s Charles V, King of Spain and Holy Roman Emperor wanted a route that ships could take between Peru in Spain. Hundreds of years later his dream became a reality in the form of the Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through movable locks that lift and lower ships. It saves thousands of miles on each trip between North and South America. In 1914 it opened. Now 15,000 ships use it each year.

Each ship that passes through must be raised and lowered by 85 feet across the canal, and each movable lock door weighs 750 tons and fills with 52 million gallons of water to support the thousands of ships that go through it each year. The project required 60 million pounds of dynamite and 40,000 workers.

These are just a couple of the most important civil engineering projects in human history, but they demonstrate how much can be accomplished with a bold vision and the will to bring it to fruition. Civil engineers handily solve complex problems by coordinating as many skilled professionals they require. If they’re successful, their works stand the test of time and markedly improve the lives of incalculable people over the years and decades after they’re completed.

Being a civil engineer is extremely rewarding and challenging work. It’s not for everyone, but if you have the aptitude and the will to thrive in this field, a top-notch civil engineering education can give you the tools you’ll need to have a successful, long-lasting career in the field.

By earning a civil engineering degree you can help build a better, more efficient world and help people live better lives whenever they make use of your works.

In this handy, thorough guide, we’ll look into the available civil engineering degrees, including different degree levels and common specializations. We’ll also look at all that we’ve done at Degree Query to help you find the best civil engineering degree for you. While you peruse this resource, please ask yourself and consider the following (among other factors that might pertain to you):

• What are your short and longterm career goals, and how can a degree in civil engineering help you reach them?
• You don’t need to have an exact plan of how your education and career will go, but starting with a premise about where you’d like to work and what you’re good at is a great way to explore your civil engineering degree options.
• What degrees do you currently hold? What civil engineering position do you want, and what degree level would you need to reach to qualify for it?
• Entry-level civil engineering positions often require at least a Bachelor’s degree. Applicants with graduate or doctoral degrees can reach more senior positions and are preferred for competitive civil engineering positions.
• How much can you afford to pay in tuition and the other costs that are associated with a specific civil engineering degree, and how much would you have to take out in loans to afford one?
• There are many costs associated with civil engineering programs, depending on the school you choose, and the delivery formats they offer. You should also consider what scholarships and loans you could qualify for, among other personal financial considerations.
• Whenever possible you should choose schools you can afford to attend. However, that’s not an option for many people, so if you need to borrow money take out loans from the government instead of borrowing money from private interests.
• Consider schools that are comparably affordable, accredited, and non-profit over more costly for-profit options.
• How much time can you commit to a civil engineering degree each day, week, and in total before graduating? Depending on the civil engineering program you choose you can enjoy a variety of delivery formats.
• These delivery options include full-time, part-time, online, on-campus, or a hybrid of online and traditional on-campus instruction. What’s best for you?
• Where do you want to live and use your civil engineering degree? Different states, cities, and industries have different demands for civil engineers.
• What is your career and educational background? How can a prospective civil engineering degree program increase your strengths and mitigate your weaknesses?
• What are the available specializations in civil engineering degrees you’re considering? How can a specialization or focus in the field help you meet and exceed your educational and career goals?

This is just a taste of what you should look at when searching for a civil engineering degree or any other discipline for that matter. While you explore, it’s beneficial to write down more questions, parameters, obstacles, and considerations that will inform your search. This way, you can set up criteria to pare down the available civil engineering options. Throughout, keep in mind, what do you want from a civil engineering program?

Now let’s look at some of the factors that make civil engineers successful. These may not all apply to you, but that’s OK. Probe your aptitudes, and how they play into civil engineering, and think about whether you can make up for the things you struggle with to determine whether civil engineering is right for you.

What Makes Successful Civil Engineers?

Many qualities make a great civil engineer, but here are some of them:

• Incredible Analysis: Civil engineers are constantly looking to solve problems, and prevent them from occurring. They need to be examining a multitude of factors that go into a project and determining where the courses they and their coworkers have chosen need correction, and where they will be successful.
• Management and Organizational Skills: Because of how much a civil engineer must try and control (can they maintain their budgets? Is their building being constructed safely? Etc.) they need excellent planning and delegation skills to keep everything running smoothly on time. Coordinating all of the moving parts of a building project is a lot easier when you’re naturally adept at managing many different aspects of a project towards an overall goal.
• Communication Skills: Knowing exactly how you want a project to play out won’t matter unless you can convey your plans to peers, those working under you, your bosses and the people financing a project.
• Flexibility: No matter how hard you plan, large or small scale civil engineering projects will hit snags. Your ability to adapt, and also compromise on your desires is essential to success in the field.
• Negotiation Skills: Of course, you don’t just want to give in to any demands that workers or bosses are making. However, patience and kindness will go a long way towards achieving your goals and keeping everyone you need to complete a project happy while you do so.
• Attention to Detail: This is one of the most important aspects of an engineer’s life. No detail is too small, especially when it can rear its head as a major problem down the road.

Let’s move on to what we’ve done at Degree Query to help you find a civil engineering degree:

How Can We Help You Find the Right Civil Engineering Degree for You?

At Degree Query we’ve worked hard to provide you with resources in your hunt for the right degree for you. We’ve ranked jobs, schools, and degree options. We’ve answered common questions about schools, degrees, jobs, and the state of higher education. We’ve also built tools like our interactive compare careers matrix, which was designed to help you find the best pathway in school for you. Some of what we’ve done that applies to civil engineering and adjacent fields includes:

Rankings

• Top 10 Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Environmental Science
• Top 50 Highest Paying Master’s Degrees
• 50 Best Online Degrees for 2019
• 50 Highest Paying Bachelor’s Degrees
• Top 50 Degrees For Changing The World
• Top 50 Degrees for the Future

Frequently Asked Questions

• What Degree Do You Need to Be a Civil Engineer?
• What Are the Highest Paying Jobs in Engineering?
• What Can I Do With An Engineering Degree?
• What are the Fastest Schools for a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
• How much Science is in an Environmental Engineering Degree?
• What Is the Difference Between a Degree in Civil Engineering and a Degree in Architecture?
• What Kind of Job Can You Get With a Degree in Civil Engineering?
• What Classes Will I Have to Take for a Degree in Civil Engineering?
• What Should You Know When You Interview for a Job With a Degree in Civil Engineering?
• What Are the Benefits of Pursuing a Degree in Civil Engineering?
• What Are the Highest Paying Jobs With a Degree in Civil Engineering?
• What Is the Benefit of a Civil Engineering Degree Vs an Environmental Engineering Degree?

Now let’s explore the different levels of Civil Engineering degrees:

What are the Different Levels of Civil Engineering Degrees?

Associate’s in Civil Engineering

These degrees take approximately two years to earn depending on your schedule and availability. In these programs, you’ll study the construction of public infrastructures like roads, bridges, tunnels, and systems like water and electricity. Students will likely do lab work in addition to in-class instruction. You’ll get acquainted with the latest tools and technologies used for mapping and surveying. These programs can prepare you to work as an assistant technician, inspector, or surveyor, or can assist you in your ongoing education and help you earn a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a similar discipline. These programs are often offered at community or junior colleges, which can cost less than traditional four-year programs. If you choose to transfer into a four-year program, you’ll come equipped with pertinent credits that can make your remaining undergraduate civil engineering studies much more comfortable.

Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering

Here you’ll study construction, materials, and much more. These programs are similar to their associate counterparts but far more in-depth. Topics covered include structural design, soil composition, waste management, surveying, materials science, hazardous materials, wastewater, among other areas. You’ll become exceptionally well-versed in the writing, calculus, computer-aided design, and other math skills needed in civil engineering. Generally, these programs take four years to complete, depending on your delivery format and any credits you’ve earned previously in the field. Graduates will be prepared to design systems, bridges, roads, public sanitation, dams, and other vital infrastructure. If you succeed in these programs, you’ll also be on the way to certification as a civil engineer, and can continue your education at the graduate level.

Master’s in Civil Engineering

In these programs you’ll go much further into advanced concepts and the practical skills needed to design, implement and maintain infrastructure. These degrees take approximately two years to earn, depending on your needs and schedule. They’re incredibly interdisciplinary and demand extensive practical work, often through an internship. These programs offer feature specializations students can choose to refine their education to a particular area of civil engineering (more on this later). You’ll need to hold a Bachelor’s degree to be considered for one of these programs, and many schools require that degree to be in engineering. In these degrees, you’ll study engineering decision-making, support systems, physical hydrology, linear programming, pipe systems, environmental monitoring, statistics, and much more. Graduates will be prepared to work as supervisors, team leaders, and in other administrative positions within civil engineering.

Doctorates in Civil Engineering

These are incredibly challenging, demanding degrees that require four to five years for completion. In them, you’ll gain an excellent understanding of materials, structural engineering, mechanics, physics, data analysis, and much more. These programs also allow students to select a particular aspect of civil engineering to focus on. These might include earthquake engineering, transportation, geoenvironmental engineering, water resources, computational engineering mechanics, structural engineering, and much more. Students can expect to do advanced coursework for approximately half to heir time in these programs, and then will spend the second half researching, creating, writing, and eventually defending a thesis. There are opportunities to have tuition covered through fellowships and teaching/research posts as part of being accepted into these programs. Graduates will be prepared to teach advanced civil engineering courses, do vital research in the field, and work at the highest levels at a number of agencies, companies, and other organizations that employ civil engineers.

Now that we’ve discussed the available degree levels in civil engineering let’s look into degree and career specializations in the field:

What are Your Civil Engineering Specialization Options?

Civil engineering encompasses so many different areas of infrastructure design, creation, and development. Here are some of the specific areas you could find yourself in, either through studying in a focused program or within the field itself:

Construction Management

If you think you’re a great leader and love to see projects from their infancy through completion, this could be an excellent choice for you. These civil engineers help create building projects, from their initial designs until they’re completely done. They work with all of the different groups that help build, including plumbers, financiers, architects, electricians, construction workers, and anyone else involved in bringing a construction project from a dream into reality. They need to be up to date on the latest building codes (at the federal, state, and local levels). They’re also in charge of making a project safe, which is extremely difficult while working on a deadline.

Environmental Engineer

This option is excellent for people who want to create a better world through civil engineering. Here you’ll learn to develop projects that improve environments or sustain them. You’ll study the use of alternative energies like water, wind and solar, building materials that can reduce energy expenditure, and make many other design choices that lend themselves to sustainability. For example, you might build a project with windows and panels that maximize lighting and draw solar power while cutting down on energy expenditures.

Geotechnical Engineering

In this specialization you’ll focus on the soil and rock that form the bedrock for a project. Depending on where you’re constructing you’ll need to mitigate the softness or toughness of the land you’re building on. Your work can prevent erosion, and make sure a project lasts longer than it would have without your efforts. Projects spring from the ground up, and people who understand that ground are invaluable to building successes.

Structural Engineering

This is related to geotechnical engineering, but a bit broader. Structural engineers make sure buildings, and other physical structures can support their weight, and the weight of those who go inside them. They calculate potential loads and what designs can handle in a variety of ways. They’re essential to the skeleton of buildings, and the materials used to build them.

Transportation Engineering

These civil engineers work on the infrastructure that gets people where they need to be. Their work can include subways, roads, bridges, rails, and anything else necessary for the transportation of people and goods. The significant factors they consider are the capacity to carry people while making sure they’re safe. Our society depends on reliable, convenient, safe, and sustainable travel, and will continue to in the foreseeable future. If you were obsessed with trains as a kid, this might be the right fit for you.

Water Resources Engineering

We depend on safe water to live. But even as our societies and infrastructures have developed exponentially, there are constant obstacles to people receiving clean, consistent water. Water resources engineers build and maintain the infrastructure that delivers people the water they need to live.

As you can see, these are all fundamental aspects of civil engineering that will always have high needs for competent professionals.

Now that we’ve explored the degree and career options in civil engineering we’re almost through our guide. Before we go though, let’s look at what you can expect to earn as a civil engineer to support yourself and your family:

Civil Engineering Degrees in Conclusion

Let’s take a quick look at what civil engineers are likely to earn in the field:

In 2018 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found civil engineers made a median pay of $86,640 a year, or $41.65 per hour.

BLS wrote that in 2016 there were 303,500 of these positions, which they predicted would grow by 11% between 2016-26, translating to 32,200 new jobs.

They also found that in May 2018 the lowest 10% of civil engineers earned less than $54,780, while they top 10% earned over $142,560. Areas associated with higher pay included government positions and engineering services positions.

We hope you’ve found this guide illuminating and extremely useful. If you find a school through our content that feels like a good fit, it’s useful to email their support staff directly to request more information about it.

Good luck!

The post What Can I Do With a Civil Engineering Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

And due to the recent and near-ubiquitous adoption of online education over recent years, there are more options for prospective economics than ever before. Even some of the most traditionalist and conversative universities around the world have recently adopted online education in response to the worldwide pandemic, which has led to many of the best master’s of economics programs shifting offerings to the digital education space. 

This widespread adoption of online education has simultaneously unraveled cynical skepticism toward online education on both the side of employers and educators, meaning that there have simultaneously never been more options and these options have never had such acceptance and approval. So with this in mind, our researchers have done the legwork and compiled some of the best options to consider for earning your master’s of economics online. 

Our researchers have organized this ranking according to metrics that we believe will be most meaningful to prospective students–including overall prestige of the institution, graduation rate, tuition costs, and aggregate scores from parallel education rankings. 

1 West Texas A&M University

The West Texas A&M University Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business offers a renowned economics program that can be completed as a fully online master’s degree. The program has racked up numerous accolades that recognize it for outstanding standards of excellence and promising outcomes for program graduates. Students of the program will master the skills needed to succeed in careers of economic and financial consulting and advising in either the private or public sector. 

The program can be completed through 36 to 45 credit hours of coursework that is completed through an asynchronous schedule. The program also offers excellent flexibility for students who wish to progress through the program while holding down full-time employment. As such, hard working professionals have up to six years to complete the program so as to ensure a comfortable work-life balance.

Net Price: $13,185

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degree in Economics at Texas A&M University here.

2 Purdue University

The Purdue University Krannert School of Management is one of the most prestigious and respected business schools in the country and beyond. Students of the Krannert School of Management go on to achieve their goals through exemplary careers. Among other top-notch degree programs, the Krannert School of Management offers a fully online Master of Science of Economics.  

Students of the program will learn from top-tier faculty who specialize in cutting-edge quantitative and empirical instructional methods. As such, students will progress through a high-tech curriculum that enforces study in the following areas: econometrics (big data, machine learning), statistical software applications, modern computational and programming tools (Python), business outcome-forecasting, game theory and more.

Students of the program will be able to choose from a four degree specialization tracks: 

• Business and Data Analytics
• Financial Economics
• Public Economics and Policy
• Advanced Theory

Net Price: $12,527

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Purdue University here.

3 University of Missouri

The University of Missouri offers a number of career-centric degree programs that are designed to propel students to the next threshold of professional advancement. Particularly in the case of the College of Arts and Sciences, programs are designed to position graduates to capitalize on market needs and job market opportunities. Specifically, the College offers a fully online Master of Arts in Economics. 

Esteemed faculty cultivate students’ skill sets with hands-on learning opportunities meant to cultivate mastery in the following areas: public sector business development, international trade, international finance, economic development.

Students who graduate from the program will be prepared to take on employment in any of the following roles (evidenced by recent graduates who hold these titles):

• Data Scientist
• Director of Institutional Research
• Economic Development Incentive Specialist
• Energy Markets Manager
• Lecturer in Economics
• Quantitative Modeling Analyst

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at University of Missouri here. 

Net Price: $18,480

4 University of Detroit Mercy    

The University of Detroit at Mercy College of Liberal Arts & Education offers some of the most recognized and awarded degree programs on this list. This particularly true for one program in particular, the fully online Master of Science in Applied Data Analytics has racked up numerous accolades recognizing it for its top-tier education and promising outcomes for recent graduates. 

While not listed as an economics program in the name, the program is specifically designed to position students within the field of global economics. In fact, the data analytics curriculum represents a well-informed strategy to position students to capitalize on the rising prominence of data-centric strategy in economic careers. 

For students interested in the technical side of global economics, few programs replicate this commitment to a high tech, career-centric curriculum.

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at the University of Detroit here.

Net Price: $20,415

5 Ohio University

Ohio University offers a globally-minded, STEM-designated Master of Arts in Economics that is particularly accommodating to international students. The STEM designation allows for a program classification, which grants up to 24 months of extra training after graduation for international students. 

The program can be completed at jaw-dropping pace, with completion in as little as one year. Class sizes are kept to a small number to encourage full integration and engagement between students. This is meant to convey a focus on socially aware collaboration, which is an integral part of the economist’s profession. 

Specifically, graduates of the program will be prepared to excel in any of the following career paths: 

• Data Analyst
• Research Analyst
• Financial manager
• Policy analyst
• College instructor

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Ohio University here.

Net Price: $6,677

6 Johns Hopkins University

John Hopkins University is a school that confers tremendous clout to graduates of its programs. JHU is at the forefront of research in countless fields, and produces industry-shifting professionals year after year. Most of its programs commit to industry-relevant research methods, so that graduates enter the job market armed with knowledge of the current market needs and opportunities. 

JHU’s Online Master of Applied Economics offers one of the most flexible and accommodating degree programs on this list. Students can choose from a robust catalogue to facilitate building a unique profile of training. Students will be able to choose from 7 concentrations and 27 electives in order to build the program that is best suited to individual career aspirations. 

Moreover, students can complete the program in as little as 12 to 24 months. Making this one of the most prestigious, flexible, and efficient programs on this list–which more than justifies the comparatively high tuition costs. 

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Johns Hopkins University here.

Net Price: $30,701

7 American University

American University is a school that focuses on providing students with a foundation to build professional thriving and success. Its online programs are helmed by top-tier faculty who hold at least 20 years of experience in their respective specialties, and who work to stay on top of the most current trends and opportunities.

American University offers a host of online degree programs, among which is a fully online Master of Arts in Economics. As with many of its programs, American University offers tremendously affordable tuition rates which are further tempered by generous financial aid packages and transfer credit policies. 

American University is an ideal option for students who want quality education that can bring them into the job market quickly and affordably. From enrollment to graduation, students of the program will complete the following required courses: 

• Introduction to Mathematical Economics
• Microeconomic Theory
• Macroeconomic Theory
• Applied Econometrics I
• Applied Econometrics II
• Economics MA Capstone Seminar

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at American University here.

Net Price: $9,656

8 Youngstown State University

Youngstown State University offers a fully online Online Master of Arts in Financial Economics Program, which is designed to accommodate students with even the busiest of work schedules. The program’s curriculum is designed to cultivate an awareness of global economics and international business, so that students can analyse data sets from all angles. 

To this end, coursework is strongly positioned in data science fundamentals in the context of financial analyses. As such students will become well-accustomed to research methods and protocols for assessment of an entity’s financial operations–which will position graduates for success in both public and private sectors. 

Students will complete the following required courses:

• Microeconomic Theory
• Macroeconomic Theory
• The Economics of Financial Markets and Institutions
• Econometrics
• Research Seminar
• Finance for Decision Making
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Corporate Financial Management
• Securities Analysis

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Youngstown State University here.

Net Price: $11,595

9 Georgia Southern University

The Georgia Southern Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies provides students with a strong career-centric foundation from which to build professional advancement. Specifically, students at the College will have the opportunity to earn a fully online Master of Science in Applied Economics (M.S.A.E.). 

Students of the program will delve deeply into topics relating to business development, performance metrics, and financial analyses. As such, graduates will be prepared to work in any industry which participates in economic development, public utilities, or federal and state regulation. 

For students interested in a curriculum that tackles state and federal regulation practices and policies this program is an ideal option. 

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Regent University here.

Net Price: $15,795

10 University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota is a research-centric school that leverages a large network of research partners and facilities to offer industry-aware programs that capitalize on market opportunities. This is particularly beneficial in degree programs that benefit the most from cutting-edge research methods, such as is the case with the fully online Master’s in Applied Economics & Predictive Analytics.

The program is completed through 30 credit hours either online or on-campus, which typically takes around 2 years. Students of the program will build toward specialization in key areas such as the following:

• Econometrics
• Statistical analysis
• Utilizing industry standard software (such as STATA)
• Programming languages (such as ‘R’ and Python)
• Operational Metrics 

Learn more about the Top Online Master’s Degrees in Economics at Regent University here.

Net Price: $15,970

For Further Reading:

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Policy Analyst?

The post The 10 Best Online Masters in Economics appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The field of marketing is one that has continuously evolved alongside the business world and the world economy. But one thing is certain–it isn’t going anywhere, and in fact the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that management-level marketing positions are growing at a rate of 6% which is nearly double the national average. A skilled marketer will always have a number of professional opportunities to consider. Working in freelance, joining a respected agency, or starting your own marketing agency–these are all viable options for marketers.

And it is this optionality and sheer flexibility that makes the field of marketing an excellent destination for professionals and students of all levels. And for those looking for a quick and affordable entrypoint into the industry, a four year degree may not always be the best answer. 

RELATED: The 20 Best Online Marketing Degrees (Bachelor’s)

Quick and Affordable Online Marketing Certificate Programs

Marketing certificate programs have always been a popular choice for both current and prospective marketing professionals. Certificate programs are often built around key skills and specialized areas of study, so that students can focus all of their attention on what is most beneficial in the context of professional advancement. 

In many cases, employers might enroll their marketing employees in these programs to improve efficiency and productivity. And likewise, independent marketers often enroll in certificate programs if they feel they need to improve in a certain area. Thankfully, the process has never been more simple, and can often be completed while maintaining full-time employment and a comfortable work-life balance. 

Our researchers have compiled the best programs available according to metrics which we believe matter the most to you, the student–affordability, academic integrity, efficiency, and overall reputation (as measured by the program’s performance in rankings of trusted publications).

1. University of Washington-Seattle Campus

The University of Washington Professional & Continuing Education program is designed for working students, adult learners, and other nontraditional students who need results-driven education. The UW Professional & Continuing Education program is designed to propel students into successful careers by building high-value skills that are of high value in the job market. UW distinguishes itself through this commitment to providing career-centric programs, which prepare students to seize on the real-time demands of their industry. 

The UW Professional & Continuing Education Department offers a for-credit Certificate of Digital Marketing. The program’s curriculum has been designed from the ground up to represent the current needs of the industry, and the expectations of future employers. The program can be completed on any schedule that best accommodates a student’s needs–self-paced online, online with real-time meetings, or a traditional classroom format.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning experiences where students will engage projects like the following:

• Learning to leverage Google Analytics to gain exposure
• Learning to use other digital marketing tools
• Developing a paid-media plan and strategy for a mock company
• Creating a comprehensive digital marketing plan for a real local company, which is added to each student’s portfolio on completion

Learn more about the program

2. University of South Florida-Main Campus

The University of South Florida (USF) is a booming university system that ranks as one of the nation’s most prolific research investors with an annual budget of $1.6 billion. As such, USF leverages this extensive network of research facilities and initiatives to offer modern programs informed by USF’s cutting-edge research. The USF Executive Education program takes this to the next level, and specifically designs programs using current industry-data to create pathways for students to become highly competitive and successful professionals on an accelerated schedule. 

The USF Muma College of Business offers a number of business and marketing programs at the undergraduate and graduate level, among which is an online Marketing Certificate. The program is self-paced so that students can earn their certificate amidst full-time employment and demanding schedules. 

Students of the program will develop valuable skills and strategies such as the following:

• Develop strategies applying to your business
• Break through silos in order to bring your unify your organization on behalf of your customers
• Eliminate barriers and develop a customer-centric mindset of innovation
• Gain customer insights, and convert theories into action

Learn more about the program

3. University of California-Los Angeles

The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) is a name that is recognized around the world, a name associated with academic excellence and professional innovation. No matter your chosen program, at UCLA students work at the forefront of their fields to become future-minded professionals who have the tools needed to build lifelong success. 

The UCLA Extension program was built to bring the University’s most successful programs to more students around the country, and even around the world. Among these is an online Marketing Certificate with a Concentration in Digital Marketing. The program offers a comprehensive introduction into the following areas:

• Digital analytics
• Digital and social media marketing
• Influencer marketing and content strategy
• Advertising in the digital age

Learn more about the program

4. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Illinois Online offers a number of accessible programs that are built with the student and their career in mind. As such, its programs are delivered through a range of modalities in order to meet students where they are, no matter where they are in life. Illinois Online’s certificate programs however, are designed specifically for those wishing to pursue professional advancement. 

Illinois Online offers a Digital Marketing Certificate through the prestigious Gies College of Business. The Digital Marketing Certificate (Coursera MasterTrackTM Certificate) offers a curriculum that teaches students how to engage consumers in a global economy. The program offers one course at a time, so that students can comfortably progress while maintaining full-time employment. 

Specifically, the program is built around the following course schedule:

• Marketing in a Digital World – Spring, 4 weeks
• Digital Marketing Analytics – Summer, 8 weeks
• Digital Marketing Channels – Fall, 8 weeks
• Marketing in an Analog World – Fall, 4 weeks
• Digital Marketing Capstone – Fall, 2 weeks

Learn more about the program

5. University of California-Irvine

Established in 1962, the UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE) has a storied history of servicing adult learners and working students who want to elevate their career trajectories. Today, the UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education (DCE) offers more than 80 industry-relevant certificates and specialized programs–either on campus, online, or at a corporate site. The Division’s certificate programs leverage the University’s network of strategic partnerships so that online students benefit from hands-on learning experiences. 

The Digital Marketing & Communications certificate program is completed entirely online through coursework which is designed to prepare students to capitalize on career opportunities. Students of the program will polish their skills of research, writing, design, and analytics–all of which are highly sought after by employers in the field of marketing. 

This program differentiates itself in the special attention paid to digital marketing and computing technology. Students of the program will learn how to leverage the latest tools to become as efficient and productive as possible. 

Learn more about the program

6. Ozarks Technical Community College

The Ozarks Technical Community College breaks the mold for what many think of when considering a community college. Ozarks Technical offers an array of future-facing, career-focused degree programs that are designed to propel graduates into successful careers. Ozarks Technical employs a value-based learning paradigm built on the following tenets:

• Quality
• Opportunity
• Accessibility
• Learning
• Inclusion
• Innovation
• Community
• Respect
• Integrity
• Personal growth

If these values resonate with you, you might want to consider enrolling the College’s online Business and Marketing Certificate. The program differentiates itself from similar programs through its focus on business education. Students of the program will be introduced to the foundational concepts of marketing framed within the context of business operations. 

Specially, the certificate program is made up of the following courses:

• Principles of Accounting I
• Principles of Business
• Principles of Marketing
• Business Communications
• Principles of Management
• Technology & Digital Literacy
• Principles of Macroeconomics
• Composition I With Support

Learn more about the program

7. University of Virginia

The University of Virginia Online has earned a national reputation for producing innovators and leaders. The University of Virginia develops its programs to appeal to working professionals and adult learners. As such, students will find that Virginia Online’s programs maintain a high bar of academic rigor, while focusing on coursework that is most valuable in the context of one’s profession. Upon graduation students will be prepared to not only compete in the job market, but to win in the job market. 

The University of Virginia offers a graduate certificate in Digital Marketing that can be completed entirely online. Students of the program will master the various tools of the trade and will build the practical skills needed to retain customers in the modern marketing field.

The program is built upon the following curriculum:

• Digital Marketing Tools & Technologies 
• Strategic Database Marketing 
• Customer Relationship Management 
• Legal Aspects of Digital Marketing 
• Web Marketing: Building Awareness on the Internet 
• Social & New Media in Digital Marketing 
• Mobile Marketing Strategies 
• Introduction to Project Management 

Learn more about the program

8. Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown Community College (HCC) was founded in 1946 as Maryland’s first community college, and today has become a well-respected provider of student-centric online programs. Today, HCC offers a number of fully online programs designed for university transfer, career preparation, and/or personal development. At HCC students engage curriculums which are designed to reflect the real world needs and demands of the job market, so that graduates have what it takes to win over future employers. 

HCC offers an online Marketing Certificate that combines entry-level college courses with professional experience and skill development. Students of the program will engage course material that counts as credit towards a business or marketing Associate’s degree. 

Specifically, the program is built around the following curriculum:

• Principles of Management (3 Credits) 
• Marketing (3 Credits) 
• BUS 101 – Introduction to Business Organization and Management (3 Credits) 
• Public Speaking (3 Credits) 
• Technical Writing (3 Credits) 
• Introduction to Information Technology (3 Credits)  
• Macroeconomic Principles (3 Credits) 
• Microeconomic Principles (3 Credits)  
• Any Management (MGT) course (3 Credits)
• Any Entrepreneurship (ENT) course (3 Credits)

Learn more about the program

9. University of Vermont

The University of Vermont (UVM) Department of Continuing and Distance Education specializes in offering high-end programs for future-minded students. UVM built its online programs long before the industry began to embrace ‘remote learning’ due to the pandemic, and as such online students at UVM benefit from years of program iteration and polishing. 

Among these polished online programs is an Online Digital Marketing Fundamentals Professional Certificate. The program is led by industry experts who deliver the program in a bite-sized format of just 8 weeks, making it accessible to professionals on any schedule. Despite its short format, students will delve into a variety of topics and projects:

• SEO (Search Engine Marketing)
• PPC (Paid Search & Pay Per Click)
• Web & Marketing Analytics
• Email Marketing
• Social Media Marketing
• Display Advertising
• Mobile Marketing
• Capstone

Learn more about the program

10. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is a prime example of a large public university that has leveraged its success to expand into online learning. Today, OSU Online services nearly 30,000 international students around the world and designs its programs to offer the utmost accessibility to adult learners and working professionals. OSU Online offers more than 100 areas of study that can be pursued online or in a hybrid format that combines on-campus elements. 

Oregon State University specializes in convenient certificate programs that offer a high level of academic rigor and professional integrity. Among these programs is a Digital Marketing Certificate and a Digital Brand Management Certificate. The courses of each are as follows:

• Digital Brand Management Certificate
  • Search Engine Optimization & Search Engine Marketing
  • Digital Brand Strategies
  • Building Digital Content Strategy
  • Developing a Social Media Plan

• Digital Marketing Certificate
  • Audience Segmentation
  • Content Marketing Strategy
  • Transmedia Storytelling
  • Business-to-Business Marketing

Learn more about the program

11. Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College is another College that is shaking up our conception of what a community college is capable of, and in fact, Macomb Community College is demonstrating a level of success that many large universities would like to replicate. Today, Macomb Community College services more than 38,000 students annually through its more than 200 degree and certificate programs. 

Among these programs is a Digital Marketing certificate that can be completed entirely online. The program has a number of amazing selling points, one of which is the partnership with Burning Glass, which empowers students with the most current and relevant industry data. Additionally, the program employs a career-insights tool which allows students to explore promising areas of the job market.  

Learn more about the program

12. Montgomery County Community College

Montgomery County Community College (MC3) earns consistent national recognition for its commitment to academic excellence demonstrated through world class faculty and use of technology. Today MC3 boasts an alumni group of more than 65,000 alumni, many of which have gone on to work at the highest levels of their fields. MC3 invests heavily in each of its programs so that it provides the best chances for each student to actualize their professional goals. 

MC3 offers a marketing certificate that can be completed either on-campus or online. Students of the program will master key marketing concepts within the context of a global business environment. The program is built on the following foundational curriculum:

• Survey of Accounting, Writing for Business and Industry, or Principles of Management (3 credits)
• Legal Environment of Business (3 credits)
• Introduction to Public Relations (3 credits)
• Ethical Decision Making in Business (3 credits)
• Principles of Marketing (3 credits)
• Personal Sales Management (3 credits)
• Advertising and Promotion (3 credits)
• Digital Marketing (3 credits)
• Management, Marketing, or Entrepreneurship Elective (3 credits)

Learn more about the program

13. University of Georgia

The University of Georgia (UGA) is one of the southeast’s most reputable and successful providers of education programs–with degrees and certification tracks available at all levels. And with the University’s expansion into online education, more students can benefit from these programs than ever before. In particular UGA’s Terry College of Business has partnered with industry experts in Silicon Valley in order to create top of the line programs that will prepare students to succeed in the job market. 

Specifically, students can choose from three marketing certificate programs:

• Digital Sales and Marketing Basics (3 month course)
• Digital Marketing for Marketing Professionals (6 month course)
• Digital Marketing for New Media Professionals (6 month course)

These programs are designed to propel students into prosperous areas of the job market, and improves the competitiveness of students’ portfolios by acting as sufficient preparation to sit for the Online Marketing Certified Associate (OMCA) or Online Marketing Certified Professional (OMCP) designation exams.

Learn more about the program

14. Cornell University

Cornell University is a name that confers tremendous academic and professional clout to its alumni, which in many cases is as valuable as the education itself. In short, Cornell University opens doors for its students, which is why it’s an internationally respected destination for pursuing a degree or other form of professional advancement. Over the last decade, Cornell Online has invested heavily in bringing more of its top-tier certificate programs to students.  

Today, students can choose from a robust catalogue of fully online certificate tracks that employ the latest strategies and online learning technologies helmed by some of the world’s most celebrated faculty, who have worked at the highest levels of their fields–both academically and professionally. 

Specifically, students can choose from a selection of online marketing certificate programs–one of the most extensive lists available:

• Digital Marketing Certificate
• Digital Marketing 360 Certificate
• Social Media Marketing Certificate
• Growth Marketing Certificate
• Marketing Strategy Certificate
• Brand Management Certificate
• Product Marketing Certificate
• Marketing AI Certificate
• Marketing Analytics Certificate
• PR Strategy Certificate
• Integrated Marketing 360 Certificate
• Corporate Communication Certificate
• Data Privacy Strategy Certificate
• Hospitality Digital Marketing Certificate
• Strategic Hospitality Marketing Certificate

Learn more about the program

15. Scottsdale Community College

Scottsdale Community College (SCC) provides student-centric programs that engage adult learners and working students with intellectually rigorous curricula. Today SCC has grown to service more than 10,000 students annually through 100 degrees and 60 certificates, many of which can be completed entirely online from the comfort of one’s own home. For three consecutive years, SCC has been eligible for the prestigious Aspen Award for Community College Excellence.

SCC offers two marketing certificate programs, an Online Marketing Certificate and an Online Social Media Marketing Certificate. The Marketing program is made up of the following courses:

• Introduction to Business (3 credits) 
• Principles of Marketing (3 credits) 
• Computer Usage and Applications (3 credits) 
• Survey of Computer Information Systems (3 credits) 
• Workplace Communication Skills (3 credits) 
• Advertising Principles (3 credits) 
• Principles of Sales (3 credits) 

Learn more about the program

16. Community College of Philadelphia

Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) is Philadelphia’s largest institution of higher education and to date has serviced nearly 700,000 of the city’s inhabitants. CCP provides students with a number of flexible pathways to actualize professional and academic development. Its programs are designed to offer the highest level of academic integrity while preserving the flexibility needed to accommodate adult learners and working students.

CCP offers an online Digital Marketing Certificate which begins monthly in order to accommodate students’ of all backgrounds and schedules. The program aligns with the Online Marketing Certified Associate (OMCA) credential, which is a significant accolade in the field of marketing.

Students who enroll in the program will engage a comprehensive investigation of the central tasks of the marketing profession:

• Social media messaging
• Website ads
• Facebook marketing campaigns
• Google Adwords

Learn more about the program

17. Harvard University

Harvard University has always been a pillar of higher education in the United States, and the world at large. Its programs consistently rank as the most prestigious and academically rigorous of their kind, and often produce industry leaders who set the course of markets for years to come. Today, the Harvard University Extension program looks to make their quality programs available to students all over the world.

Among these programs is an online Marketing Management and Digital Strategy Certificate which is typically completed over 1.5 years on average. The program is designed for the working and distance student in mind, with 83% of enrollees working full-time and 29% living outside of the U.S. 

The program’s curriculum is formatted as follows:

• Foundations course (choose one course from select group)
• Digital Tools (choose one course from select group)
• Elective courses (choose two courses from select group)

Learn more about the program

18. University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee

The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (UWM) School of Continuing Education is the largest provider of professional development in the region, and its year-round program structure enables students to engage flexible programs at a cadence that best facilitates learning and professional development. UWM emphasizes lifelong learning, so that its programs instill in students a frame of mind that contributes to success long after graduation.

UWM offers a fully online Digital Marketing Certificate which is based on a skill-building approach, which is meant to offer value to marketing professionals of all levels. Specifically, students who enroll in the program will engage the following curriculum format:

• Building an Integrated Digital Content Strategy
  • $924
• Foundations for Effective Digital Marketing
  • $924
• Improve Marketing Results Using Advanced Analytics Techniques
  • $374
• Introduction to Digital Marketing Analytics
  • $374

ELECTIVE COURSES

• Adobe Illustrator – Basics
  • $250
• Adobe InDesign – Basics
  • $374
• Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp
  • $374
• Advertising on Facebook, Twitter and Other Social Platforms
  • $374
• Email Marketing Best Practices
  • $374
• Google Ads: Getting the Most From Paid Search
  • $374
• Google Tag Manager
  • $374
• SEO: Keyword Research, Link Building and Content Optimization
  • $699
• Storytelling Films: How to Make an Emotional Connection With Your Audience Through Video
  • $374
• Write High-Impact Copy for Your Website
  • $374

Learn more about the program

19. University of San Diego

The University of San Diego’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education (PCE) offers future-minded, career-focused degree programs that aid students in reaching the next level of their careers. The PCE program leverages partnerships on the local, national and international level in order to maintain the most current and career-relevant strategies in each program. 

The PCE program offers a number of certificate tracks that can be completed entirely online such as the Strategic Online Marketing Certificate. The program is designed for entry level to advanced marketers who want to improve their skills of online marketing. Specifically, the program is built around the following courses:

• Building Your Brand and Website Foundation
• Principles of SEO and Onsite Optimization
• Offsite SEO Strategies
• Content Marketing
• Social Media Marketing
• Online Advertising
• Web Analytics
• Capstone Project Presentations

Learn more about the program

20. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business is one of the world’s premier destinations for business and marketing education. Its programs consistently hit the top spots of rankings in trusted publications, and alumni often go on to work at the highest levels of business–running large international corporations, or heading prestigious marketing agencies. And with its adoption of online education, these top-tier programs are more accessible than ever before. 

One such program is the online Digital Marketing Certificate which cultivates on-demand skills and strategies in students:

• Omni-channel marketing
• Marketing analytics
• Social media strategy and analysis
• Data-driven & customer-centric strategies for customer retention

The program is helmed by some of the industry’s top experts, who employ their specialties to guide and assist the advancement of students. Areas of faculty expertise include: 

• Digital marketing
• Viral marketing
• E-commerce
• Online shopping behaviors
• Sales forecasting

Learn more about the program

The post The 20 Best Online For-Credit Certificates in Marketing appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

In 2019 there were more than 1.4 million accounting jobs in the US economy, making it one of the most sizable traditional job markets. Explosive growth is more typical of a new job economy or industry and does not reflect the health of the accountancy job market. In fact, explosive growth within the accounting industry is happening–it’s just not happening in the traditional places that one might expect. 

Cloud accounting software, automation artificial intelligence (AI), and other forms of information technology (IT) are spurring evolution across various sectors of the accounting profession. Expert accountants are able to leverage a command of IT to automate large portions of the daily workload and streamline monotonous tasks. 

Accountants who use IT simultaneously reduce the brain-drain of carrying out repetitive, monotonous tasks day-in and day-out, but it also increases the workload-capacity for these talented accountants, which ultimately makes them more competitive in the job market–they are better compensated and maintain more secure prospects of future employment.  

Why Earn an Online Master’s in Accounting?

Earning a Master’s of Accounting is an excellent strategy for positioning one’s self for success in the accounting industry. Many of the best accounting positions are reserved for those with an advanced graduate degree or for those who have established a specialization. As mentioned above one of the most promising specializations to pursue is one in information technology, data science, or [accounting] software development. 

Online Master’s of Accounting programs are typically designed to accommodate working adults, meaning course formats offer the flexibility that allows students to complete coursework amidst even the most demanding of schedules. Online programs can also typically be completed more quickly than traditional on-campus variants. So oftentimes an online master’s represents the most efficient entrypoint into the job market. 

And in 2021 with most American universities offering online programs there is a good fit for any student. Luckily our researchers have done the legwork for you, and we have compiled the best online Master’s of Accounting for your consideration below: 

Best Online Master’s of Accounting

1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 

UNC at Chapel Hill is a premier institution of higher education in the southeast known for cultivating world class professionals, top tier thinkers, and paradigm-shifting innovators. UNC Kenan-Flagler produces some of the accounting field’s most impactful professionals. Its programs train students in addressing the real world problems of the industry, so that upon graduation they are prepared to provide constructive solutions in the workplace. 

UNC Kenan-Flagler offers a fully online Master of Accounting program that is completed through 36 to 48 credit’s worth of coursework. The on-campus variant of the program is hailed as one of the best of its kind, and the online option vows to offer the same level quality and academic rigor. 

Students of the program will engage coursework in independent projects and through peer collaboration. The program faculty commit to providing students with more than just education, they look to provide students with mentorship and professional guidance. This is likely why the placement rate for graduates is so high–98% of students have accepted a job offer within three months of graduating from the program. 

Learn More 

2. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 

The University of Illinois is a nationally recognized institution of academic excellence which has broadened its online offerings to service students around the globe. Today the University offers more than 100 online degree options delivered through 1700 courses, making it one of the most robust online education programs in the country. 

The University of Illinois Gies College of Business is the first of the top 5 ranked accountancy programs to offer a fully online program option. The online Master of Science in Accounting program can be completed in 18 months of 36 months, depending on which cadence best accommodates a student’s schedule. 

Students of the program will learn from industry giants–faculty who have demonstrated success and innovation in the real world. But one of the most distinguishing offerings is the extensive alumni network of the program, which seems committed to helping both current students and recent graduates find success. 

Learn More

3. North Carolina State University 

North Carolina State University (NCSU) is built around a model of experiential learning–that is that students ‘learn by doing.’ NCSU encourages students to engage communities both local and abroad in order to expand horizons and broaden professional repertoires. NCSU is consistently recognized for offering a multitude of world class degree programs. 

Among which is the Master of Accounting program that can be completed entirely online that is designed to offer both flexibility and academic rigor. This highly competitive program will challenge students to take their skills and knowledge to the next level. Specifically, the program prepares students to take on positions of management and leadership in the accounting industry after graduation. 

The program’s tuition is about $34,000 for in-state students and $60,000 for out-of-state students. While this price tag might seem high, the program is recognized as one of the best of its kind–where graduates are sure to see highly lucrative employment opportunities. 

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4. California State University-Sacramento 

California State University-Sacramento (CSUS) is committed to driving innovation in the higher education space. Its efforts have been both largely successful and recognized, as Money Magazine ranked CSUS as the ‘9th Most Transformative’ among top U.S. colleges. Among its innovations is the University’s recent expansion into online education where its programs seek to service working students and busy professionals. 

Among these online programs is a Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) that is 100% compatible with the CPA exam, so that graduates will be perfectly positioned to pursue careers at certified public accountants. Coursework is delivered through a variety of formats to keep the online education experience fresh and stimulating. 

Students will progress through a combination of streaming classroom sessions, chat-based group projects, and more. Beyond the preparation for the CPA exam, students will delve deeply into the following topics: 

• Auditing Attestation
• Financial Accounting and Reporting
• Regulation
• Business Environment and Concepts

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5. The University of West Florida 

The University of West Florida (UWF) is built around the core mission of providing students with affordable education programs that do not sacrifice academic merit. At UWF students will be groomed to become creative and innovative professionals who can offer solutions to real world problems. This grooming is accomplished by project-based learning, real-world projects, and team-based collaboration. This will be of particular helpfulness to aspiring accountants whose profession is a largely collaborative one. 

UWF offers an AACSB-accredited, fully online Master of Accountancy program that prepares students to thrive in professions of finance, accounting, and business. This flexibility of professional direction is a core and distinguishing element of the program. 

Students can choose to focus on one of two specialization tracks that are meant to reflect the most common professional paths in the industry. Specifically students can choose between the following program paths: Professional Accountancy, or Professional Taxation specialization. 

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6. George Mason University 

George Mason University (GMU) is Virginia’s largest public research university and services more than 37,000 students from around the globe. In 2016 GMU was recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education to be one of the most impactful research universities in the United States. GMU leverages its extensive research infrastructure to inform its degree programs, position programs to reflect real world challenges and industry trends. 

This approach will be of particular value to accountants whose education will benefit massively from a program that reflects current market trends. GMU offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program that prepares students to capitalize on current opportunities in the industry. 

Perspectives of this program will find its metrics of success highly alluring. Graduates of the program earn higher salaries than professionals who hold a Bachelor of Accounting–roughly $10,000 more. And 7 out of 10 students have already secured a position in their chosen specialty by the time of their graduation. 

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7. University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut School of Business is one of the premier institutions of business education in the United States. And with its expansion into the online education space, more students can benefit from its programs than ever before. UConn’s online programs have been recognized by the United States Distance Learning Association for its ‘best practices’ and high standards for academics. 

The UConn School of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA). US News & World Report ranked the program as the 9th best program in the United States. The program is one of the most affordable MSA programs on the market–the combination of affordability and academic prestige makes the program extremely attractive, and is the reason we thought it deserved a more generous ranking. 

The MSA program provides students with an extensive catalogue of electives and course options. By strategically pursuing study in key topics, students are able to establish a specialization. The program alters the course catalogue, adding or exchanging courses to reflect the most current industry trends and opportunities.  

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8. Rutgers University

Rutgers University Business School is a name synonymous with prestige and academic excellence. Graduates of the program will benefit from this well-known reputation–both directly through the extensive and highly active alumni network, and indirectly through the employment opportunities that come with an impressive academic background. 

Rutgers Business School offers several graduate level accounting programs: 

• Master of Accountancy in Financial Accounting
• Master of Accountancy in Governmental Accounting
• Master of Accountancy in Professional Accounting
• Master of Accountancy in Taxation

The Master of Professional Accounting program can be completed entirely online, while the other programs typically combine elements of online and on-campus education. 

Students of the Professional Accounting program will learn from world class faculty, who specialize in preparing students to excel as Certified Public Accountants. For professionals interested in broadening their horizons as a CPA, few programs can compete.  

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9. SUNY Polytechnic

SUNY Polytechnic Institute is built on the foundational mission of providing students with the real-world technical skills that facilitate professional success and fulfillment of career aspirations. This approach to building technical expertise will be particularly advantageous for accountants looking to build a strong background in skill-based accounting. 

SUNY Polytechnic offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting, which is fully accredited and recognized to fulfill the credit requirements of the CPA certification process. Students of the program will complete 33 credits worth of coursework organized into 11 core courses. 

Students will select which courses to complete from a robust catalogue of options. Chosen coursework is meant to facilitate the building of professional speciality, so that students can choose to complete the coursework that is most beneficial to their individual career goals and interests. 

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10. Saint John’s University

St. John’s University is a premier educator in the accounting-education space, and employs a unique focus on positioning theoretical concepts to tackle practical problems. In other words, students at the University will not just study concepts and theories, they will learn how to actually apply these theories and concepts to one’s career to drive actionable results. 

Too few institutions of higher education are willing to apply this focus, because it means constantly tailoring education programs to reflect industry needs and market challenges in the real world. St. John’s offers an online graduate level accounting program that reflects the real world demands of the job market. 

Specifically students can earn a Master of Science in Accounting that is designed to jumpstart careers in tax, auditing, and accounting disciplines. A distinguishing element of this program is that it seeks to position program graduates to take on positions of management and leadership in the job market–positions that are typically the most prestigious and lucrative. 

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11. Georgia Southern University 

Georgia Southern University is one the state’s largest institutions of higher education. A fundamental mission of the University is to provide students with future-focused degree programs so that upon graduating from a program students are prepared for the job market that they enter. This approach is particularly meaningful for accountants, whose profession is constantly evolving and changing in accordance with market demands and other economic factors. 

George Southern students can earn a Master of Accounting Online, or a WebMAcc. The program is meant to be completed on a two year schedule, while providing students with the flexibility to progress through the program without altering professional or personal responsibilities. Ambitious students should not have trouble earning this degree while holding full-time employment. 

The program is provided through the AACSB accredited School of Accountancy, which is a distinction only held by 180 accounting programs in the world. Students of the program can enjoy the confidence that their degree-work will be recognized by all the relevant professional bodies and agencies. 

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12. DePaul University

DePaul University Online distinguishes itself through a uniquely committed faculty who take on a greater role in their students’ lives. Specifically, DePaul faculty are more than just educators, they work to fulfill the role of mentor and adviser for their students. And in the Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, faculty work to ensure that business-minded students are prepared to make professional goals and aspirations into a reality. 

The Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business offers students a fully online Master of Science in Accounting. Faculty of the program represent world-class professionals with backgrounds as top-notch CPAs and professionals/academics from the Big Four accounting firms. 

Program faculty work to ensure that students are building the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their desired field or area of professional interest. Faculty also leverage extensive professional networks and connections to help ensure students’ have an abundance of career opportunities upon graduation–which is a tremendous value itself.  

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13. Oklahoma Christian University 

As suggested by its name, Oklahoma Christian University maintains strong ties to the Church of Christ. What this means for students is that degree programs will emphasize the principles of community engagement, leadership, and a standard of ethics. All of which are meaningful for professionals regardless of religious orientation or lack thereof. 

Students at Oklahoma Christian can earn a Master of Accountancy that can be completed entirely through online coursework in as little as 12 months. This represents one of the quickest routes to professional advancement for perspectives of graduate accounting programs. The program is accredited and is able to provide this quick pace without sacrificing academic merit. 

Specifically students will participate in an comprehensive exploration of the following topics: 

• Economic Issues
• Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics
• Advanced Financial Accounting
• Ethics, Decision Making and Communication
• Legal and Regulatory Issues
• Accounting Research and Quantitative Techniques
• Financial Services
• Accounting Theory — Topics in Accounting
• Advanced Tax Accounting

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14. University of South Dakota 

The University of South Dakota (USD) Online looks to provide busy adults and working students with the nationally recognized degrees of the flagship University tailored to provide the utmost flexibility. USD degree programs are consistently recognized as some of the best of their class provided at an affordable rate. Perhaps most astonishing is that USD manages to offer the same tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, which is typically where online degree program tuition rates spiral out of hand. 

USD students can earn a Master of Professional Accountancy from the University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business. The School of Business was first founded in 1927 and has been accredited by the AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) since 1949. Less than 5% of the nation’s business schools have earned this prestigious designation. 

Students of the Master of Professional Accountancy program can choose the general track or the Accounting Analytics Specialization. The specialization track facilitates the building of data science and IT skills, which as mentioned in this article’s intro is one of the burgeoning areas of the accounting industry. 

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15. Maryville University of Saint Louis 

Maryville University Online distinguishes itself in accounting education by emphasizing its future-focused curriculum. Students of its programs will be taught more than just rote memorization of concepts, they will delve deeply into core principles that will help students stay ahead of the curve. And perhaps more importantly, programs teach students how to remain adaptable, so that they can adapt to the ever-changing environment of the accounting industry. 

Students at Maryville University Online can earn a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) in as little as 10 months. This astonishing pace is accomplished by focusing on central concepts and principles and encouraging students and by offering credits for previous professional experience. 

The program also offers a bridge option that is designed for students who do not have an accounting background. Regardless of the chosen track, graduates of the program will have fulfilled the requirements for the CPA certification. Few programs can compete with the efficiency and flexibility of Maryville’s MSA. 

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16. Saint Leo University 

Saint Leo University is one of the oldest Catholic Institutions in the state of Florida. Today it has evolved to offer programs to students of all faiths around the world through its online degree programs, and research centers in seven states. Saint Leo provides its students with strong liberal arts education that lays a foundation in ethics, leadership, and research-based innovation. 

Embodying these ideals is Saint Leo’s Master of Accounting degree program that can be completed entirely online. Program faculty are committed to upholding a standard of academic excellence that confers professional clout to degree-holders. 

 Students who complete the program will be prepared to complete the CPA and CMA exams and will progress through coursework in classes such as the following: 

• Intermediate Accounting 1
• Cost Accounting
• Auditing
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Accounting Information Systems

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17. Seton Hall University 

Seton Hall University’s online programs are nationally recognized for carrying a strong standard of ethics. Programs emphasize a commitment to the civic good by cultivating leaders who employ a sense of optimism to enact a positive influence in their profession. Seton Hall looks to balance online education by emphasizing real-world examples and projects-based learning. In other words, students at Seton Hall will ‘learn by doing.’ 

The Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business offers students a fully online Master of Science in Accounting. The Stillman School of Business is among the top 1% of its kind in maintaining dual AACSB accreditation in both accounting and business. 

Students of the program will learn more than just the standard accounting curriculum, they will learn how to excel in the corporate environment, how to engage in international markets, and how to leverage technical know-how to advance one’s career. Seton Hall’s accounting program is certainly one of the best of the best. 

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18. Western New England University 

Western New England (WNE) University distinguishes itself through a commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in students. Degree programs at WNE teach students how to think creatively and how to solve theoretical problems with practical solutions. This type of environment is ideal for accounting professionals with entrepreneurial aspirations. 

The WNE School of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting that is completed through 30 credits of coursework. The program curriculum is designed to fulfill the prerequisites for the CPA examination and certification process. 

The WNE accounting program distinguishes itself through offering students an excellent opportunity for specialization. Specifically students can earn a degree specialization in Forensic Accounting/Fraud Investigation. 

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19. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine 

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine (SJCME) is a historically Catholic institution with roots connected to the Sisters of Mercy organization. Today though SJCME positions its programs to service students from all backgrounds whether religious or secular, and emphasizes its core values in a commitment to ethical standards and to fostering a sense of civic leadership in students. 

SJCME students can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) that covers advanced and comprehensive studies in finance, taxation, accounting, and auditing. Students will also engage in electives and research projects that facilitate the building of an area of focus. The curriculum fulfills the prerequisites for the CPA examination and certification process. 

A distinguishing element of this program is its interdisciplinary curriculum which covers principles and subjects of universal value to business operations. Graduates of the program will be able to convert information into valuable financial conclusions within any industry. 

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20. New England College

New England College provides students with career-focused education and professional advancement. Central to the College’s values is its commitment to positioning students for professional success and achievement. The College demonstrates this commitment by providing students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, research opportunities, and professional projects. 

New England College offers a Master of Science in Accounting that is completed entirely online through 40 credits of coursework. The program is designed to build key competencies as identified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. As such, completing the program will complete the prerequisites for the CPA licensure process. 

A distinguishing element of this program is its concentration track option. Specifically students can earn a degree specialization in Forensic Accounting. This specialization track is designed to prepare students to obtain the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation.

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The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Associate degrees are commonly called two-year degrees because that’s how long it traditionally takes to earn them. However, in some cases, you can get an associate degree faster. 

Here are 25 accelerated online associate degrees that you can earn in less than two years.

RELATED: Easiest Online Associate’s Degrees

1. Associate of Science in Construction Project Management

Are you interested in overseeing a construction project from start to finish? Do you want to be involved in the details of planning and design? The rising career path of construction project manager might be for you. With this associate degree, you can quickly prepare for career paths like construction manager, building inspector and trades supervisor. 

Where to Earn a Construction Management Associate Degree Fas

If you want to fast-track your construction project management associate degree program, consider enrolling at Penn Foster College. The private, for-profit higher education institution located in Scottsdale, AZ, offers an accredited online Construction Technology Associate Degree. This self-paced program is one of the fastest options for an associate degree. While the average time to complete the program is as little as 11 months, highly motivated students who choose the fast-track format can get an associate degree in as little as five months. That makes this a rare example of being able to earn an associate degree in 6 months online. 

2. Social Science 

Do you have a love of fields like history, sociology and political science? Consider majoring in social science. An associate’s degree in social science helps students build foundational skills and knowledge upon which they will build when they advance to their bachelor’s degree studies. Among the areas you will study when you major in social science at the associate degree level are: 

• History
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Anthropology
• Geography
• Political science
• Economics

Where to Earn a Social Science Associate Degree Fast

Social science is one of three accelerated online associate degrees students can pursue at Tidewater Community College. Tidewater is a public community college based in South Hampton Roads, VA, and has five campuses in addition to its online offerings. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The accelerated social science degree, as well as the school’s other accelerated online associate’s degrees, can be completed in just one year. 

3. Associate Degree in Business Administration

Business administration is one of the most common associate degree programs. It’s also one of the fastest degrees you can get online. It is possible to get your degree in just 12 to 18 months – or less if you have credit hours to transfer.

Students in an accelerated online business administration program will study a wide range of business topics. Core classes for a business administration associate degree may include: 

• Introduction to business management
• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Economics
• Principles of management 
• Marketing fundamentals 
• Business law
• Management information systems 
• Business communications 
• International business

When you earn an associate degree in business administration, you’re equipped with the skills for entry-level positions in the business world. 

RELATED: How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Degree?

Where to Earn a Business Administration Associate Degree Fast

One of the fastest associate business degree online programs can be found at Truckee Meadows Community College. The program, which is available in a traditional two-year format and an accelerated one-year format, is proof that you don’t have to go to a four-year university to earn an associate’s degree fast. A community college can have a similar program for less time and money.

Truckee Meadows Community College is based in Reno, Nevada. The school is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Through the school’s Business FastTrack Program, students take two online courses per five-week term and study year-round, with new classes starting nine times per year. It’s a whirlwind for sure – but a productive one, as students can complete their 2-year degrees in half the time without transfer credits. 

Another school where students can earn an online business administration associate degree quickly is Liberty University. Liberty University is a private Christian school based in Lynchburg, Virginia, with extensive online offerings. Online business courses are eight weeks long. By studying over the summer, students can finish their associate degree in one and a half years.

What if you have credit hours to transfer? The right associate degree program will allow you to slash the time it takes to earn your associate degree. Liberty University has a generous transfer policy through which students can apply up to 75% of the credit hour requirement for an associate degree. Prospective transfer students should also consider Purdue University Global’s business administration associate degree. Students transferring the maximum number of credits can complete their associate degree in just four months. 

4. Associate of Arts in General Education or Liberal Arts

Maybe you don’t know yet what you want to study. You just know that having a degree will open doors to opportunities that you might not have with only a high school diploma.

If you haven’t decided on a specific major, it’s not a big deal. You can earn a degree in general education or liberal arts. This program is often considered the easiest associates degree, but it’s also one of the fastest associate degrees to earn. 

These programs provide a broad foundation of college-level education for you to draw from. A general education or liberal arts major can be the perfect stepping stone for a career that doesn’t require a specific path of study or for earning a bachelor’s degree at a later time.

RELATED: The 20 Easiest Bachelor’s Degree Online Options

In an online associate degree in general studies or liberal arts, students take courses in a wide range of subjects. Examples include: 

• Human development
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Science
• Economics
• Finance
• Philosophy
• Mathematics
• Business 
• Humanities

Where to Earn a Liberal Arts Associate Degree Fast

General studies is one of the accelerated online associate degree programs at Tidewater Community College that can be completed in just one year. Students complete a breadth of coursework that draws from all of the major disciplines. The program offers optional specializations in professional communication and teacher preparation. 

Another school that offers AA degrees online in general education is Florida State College at Jacksonville. By taking eight-week courses throughout the year, students at the public higher education institution can complete their associate degree in general education in just 18 months. Florida State College at Jacksonville is part of the Florida College System and is accredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges. 

5. Associate’s in Nursing

Good nurses are consistently in demand. Whether you’re already licensed as a vocational nurse or fresh out of high school, an associate degree can help you get ahead in this critical role in the healthcare industry. 

Associate degrees in nursing, or ADN programs, typically prepare students to provide patient care according to the nursing model and to pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLE-RN) test. Even in online programs, students should expect to have to gain hands-on experience through in-person labs and clinical courses. Depending on your online program, you may have to visit campus for these requirements or find a local clinical site where you can fulfill your clinical requirements. Consider these programs to be generally hybrid options rather than fully online associate degree programs. 

Where to Earn a Nursing Associate Degree Fast

Suppose you’re currently a licensed vocational nurse but haven’t yet earned a degree. Howard College in Big Springs, TX, offers a primarily online 12-month Transition Associate Degree Nursing Program. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

If you don’t yet have experience or a license, don’t worry. A number of colleges offer accelerated 2-year online degrees in nursing. Herzing University‘s Associate in Nursing program, for example, can be completed in 20 months. Students should note, however, that this isn’t a fully online program and requires some in-person coursework at one of Herzing’s campuses in Alabama, Florida, Ohio or Tennessee. The Associate Degree in Nursing Program from American Career College is another 20-month program. Although some of the coursework is offered online, some of it must be completed on campus at one of the college’s locations in Los Angeles or Anaheim, California, or in Ontario, Canada.

6. Associate of Science in Health Information Technology

Would you like to start a new career in healthcare service in as little as 15 months? The field of health information technology brings together the disciplines of healthcare and computers and IT. Students in health information technology associate degree programs take coursework in areas such as: 

• Medical billing and coding
• Electronic health record management
• Disease classification
• Healthcare procedural codes in hospitals and other healthcare facilities 

Graduates from a health information technology associate degree program can pursue roles that range from medical coder and medical transcriptionist to health information technician. 

Where to Earn a Health Information Technology Associate Degree Fast

Fremont University in Cerritos, CA, is one school that offers a fast online degree in health information technology. The private for-profit college l caters to working adult students, so it’s no surprise the school offers a program that allows for quick entry into this rapidly growing field. Fremont College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Students can complete their online health information technology associate degree program in just 15 months. 

7. Associate of Arts in Accounting

If you think an accounting career is out of reach, think again. You don’t need to spend years in school or earn an advanced degree to get started. An associate degree can be the first step to your career. Students in an online associate degree for accounting will learn the theoretical and accounting standards and fundamentals. They also develop skills for the practical application of accounting procedures.

Through their coursework, students in accounting associate degrees become familiar with:

• Equities
• Liabilities
• The process of preparing financial statements and records
• Accounting’s role in business decisions

Graduates from an associate degree in accounting program may be able to qualify for some entry-level staff accountant roles. They can also seek positions in auditing, financial data analysis and payroll administration.

Where to Earn an Accounting Associate Degree Fast

How fast can you finish an accounting associate degree online? At Lorain County Community College, the accelerated pathway for this program can be completed in just 15 months. To speed up their progress toward the degree, students in the accelerated pathway take eight-week and ten-week courses. 

8. Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems or Information Technology

Do you have an interest in technology? An associate’s degree in computer information systems or information technology can help you find a job in a rapidly growing field. Some of the coursework students may take in computer information systems and IT associates degrees online includes: 

• Computer system analysis and design
• Programming in Java, Visual Basic and C/C++
• Software design and development

Where to Earn an Information Technology Associate Degree Fast

Lorain County Community College in Elyria, OH, offers a number of 15-month associate degrees online for computer and IT fields, including: 

• Computer and digital forensics 

• Computer applications integration specialist

• Computer maintenance and networking 

The community college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. 

Another school to consider for online associate degree programs in computers and IT is ECPI University in Manassas, VA. Among the institution’s accelerated online associate degree programs are:

• A 16-month Associate of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Cyber and Information Security Technology
• An 18-month Associate of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Software Development

ECPI University – which stands for East Coast Polytechnic Institute – is a private for-profit institution accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Associate of Science in Marketing

Good marketing leads people to buy a product, service or brand. The field is ideal for students who are creative, strategic and analytical. An associate degree could be the first stepping stone into a rewarding marketing career.

An associate program in marketing typically combines core business studies, some focused marketing coursework and a background in liberal arts. Students learn how to plan, create and evaluate advertising and marketing campaigns. By the time they graduate, students know the basic principles of marketing and have the skills to work for an established or start-up organization.

Where to Earn a Marketing Associate Degree Fast

Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI, offers a 17-month fully online marketing associate degree. The school, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, doesn’t just repurpose an on-campus curriculum for an online audience. Instead, Ferris State University builds its online courses for the virtual learning environment from the ground up. The online associate degree in marketing is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

10. Associate of Arts in Psychology

Do you have an interest in human behavior? Do you wonder why people think, feel and act the way they do? Consider pursuing a fast online associates degree in the field of psychology. Some institutions of higher learning allow students to get an associate degree in psychology in just one and a half years. 

An associate’s degree in psychology will prepare graduates to work in entry-level jobs in psychology. This includes jobs in environments such as:

• Mental health facilities
• Substance abuse and rehabilitation centers
• Childcare facilities
• The criminal justice and legal system

Where to Earn a Psychology Associate Degree Fast

Liberty University offers an online Associate of Arts (AA) in Psychology program that students complete in one and a half years, on average. The program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree eventually. Because there are no required login times or on-site intensives for this program, Liberty’s online associate in psychology degree is ideal for students who need flexibility.  

11. Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

If you are interested in a law enforcement career, having an associate’s degree in criminal justice can give you an edge over candidates starting out with just a high school diploma. By earning your degree quickly online, you won’t have to sacrifice years of your life to prepare for your new career.

In associate programs in criminal justice, students will typically learn about the philosophy and development of the criminal justice system in the United States. They will gain exposure to topics in criminology and criminal law. 

This fastest associate’s degree program in criminal justice gives students the education employers are seeking. With an associate degree in criminal justice, you can pursue entry-level positions in: 

• Law enforcement
• Corrections
• Investigations
• Probation
• Corporate security

Where to Earn a Criminal Justice Associate Degree Fast

Criminal justice is another type of associate’s degree students can pursue at Purdue University Global. Purdue’s program isn’t an accelerated program per se, but it’s an excellent choice for students who have past experience to draw from. These students can make their way through the curriculum faster not only by transferring prior college credits but also by receiving credit for any military service work they have completed. If you transfer in the greatest possible credit hour amounts, military service credits and work experience credit, you can finish this program in just four months. 

12. Associate Degree in Web Programming

Do you enjoy the technical side of web applications? There’s considerable money, as well as career flexibility, in programming. Employers and clients are looking for trained professionals who know how to use the essential tools and techniques for coding websites and software applications. Knowledge of programming languages like the following are in high demand: 

• HTML
• Java 
• JavaScript
• Visual Basic 
• CSS
• SQL databases

Where to Earn a Web Programming Associate Degree Fast

How fast can you build the skills for web programming? The New England Institute of Technology offers an 18-month online Associate of Science degree in Software Engineering and Web Development. The school, which is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, emphasizes not only proficiency in programming languages and visualization tools but also how computer systems and applications can address real-world business problems. 

13. Associate of Applied Science in Health Science: Medical Office Management

Maybe you want to break into the healthcare industry but not in a clinical role. Can you see yourself in an office management role instead?

You don’t need years of education and experience to prepare for the responsibilities of keeping an office organized and running efficiently. An online associate degree in medical office management can help you prepare for this career quickly. Through this course of study, students will learn skills for the following tasks: 

• Managing office operations
• Scheduling appointments
• Managing patient records
• Handling billing, coding and insurance paperwork

Medical office managers need strong communication and organizational skills, as well as knowledge of billing and coding procedures and healthcare record management. Online associate degree programs in medical office management help students cultivate these skills. 

Where to Earn a Medical Office Management Associate Degree Fast

Ultimate Medical Academy in Tampa, FL, offers a Medical Administrative Assistant associate degree program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. The school, which is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), also offers an 11-month diploma program if you want to get into this career even faster. By the time you finish this short online associate degree, you will be prepared to take the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) examination. 

14. Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education

Do you love working with kids? An associate degree in early childhood education could be your first step to a career such as:

• Pre-kindergarten teacher
• Childcare worker
• Learning center administrator 

Whether you intend to make a career out of childcare work or eventually earn a bachelor’s degree to become a licensed teacher, this fastest associate in early childhood education degree can be a stepping stone to achieving your dreams.

In an associate degree in ECE program, students can expect to cover subjects like:  

• Child development
• Childhood education
• Classroom management 
• Teacher preparation

15. Associate of Arts in Graphic Design

Do you have an eye for design? You can be more than a “starving artist.” With an associate degree in graphic design, you can apply your creativity to a career as a designer.

During associate degree programs in graphic design, students learn to communicate ideas and messages through visuals. They apply communication, critical thinking and computer skills to a design setting. Throughout the program, students build a portfolio of their own designs that can showcase their talents to potential employers and clients. 

Coursework in a graphic design program is likely to cover the techniques of traditional art and multimedia design, including:

• Color theory
• Photography
• Typography
• Print design
• Interactive media
• Editing audio and video clips 
• Designing for the optimal user experience

16. Associate’s in Human Resources

In every industry, businesses and organizations need to recruit, train and manage talent. Human resources personnel are professionals who specialize in hiring workers and developing their skills. An associate degree in human resources can give you the skills you need for this versatile career.

Human resources students can expect to take classes in the following: 

• Management and training of employees
• Employment law
• Change management
• Benefits administration

17. Human Services Associate Degree

Do you feel a calling to help other people who are struggling through difficult life problems? An education in human services could put you on the right path.

Studying human services will prepare you for roles like:

• Community health worker
• Social and human service assistant
• Social or community service manager
• Community and social service specialist

18. Associate of Science in Software Application Development

Are you tech-savvy? If your computer skills are matched only by your creativity and resourcefulness, you could find great success as a software application developer.

Software development is a rapidly growing industry. An associate degree can help you get started sooner rather than later.

RELATED: Which Degree Is Best for a Software Engineer?

To cultivate the skills for a career in software development, you should expect to take courses such as: 

• Software design
• Smartphone app development
• Programming in languages like Java and C++
• Networking 
• Cybersecurity 
• Cloud solutions 

Where to Earn a Software Development Associate Degree Fast

ECPI University offers an 18-month software development associate degree that’s 100% online. In addition to teaching students the tools, technologies and processes of the field, this program also builds their communication skills and knowledge of ethical best practices in the industry. 

19. Associate of Science in Engineering Technology

Engineering applies the principles of math and science to the design and development of solutions to all kinds of real-world problems. Although you need a bachelor’s degree to become an engineer who undertakes the design process, an associate degree is enough to land you a role as an engineering technician. Engineering technology associate degree programs exist in various engineering disciplines. Coursework in these programs typically encompasses the most relevant background knowledge and a great deal of practical and technical skills. 

Where to Earn an Engineering Technology Associate Degree Fast

ECPI University offers online associate degrees in both mechanical engineering technology and electronic engineering technology. Both programs can be completed 100% online in 18 months. The curriculum of each program is tailored to the current needs of the respective discipline. By the time they graduate, students have the theoretical knowledge and technical know-how to succeed in technician-level roles in the engineering field. 

20. Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies

Just because you have an interest in the legal system doesn’t mean that you want to spend seven years or more pursuing a bachelor’s and then a law school degree. Fortunately, there are other ways to get a job working in the field of law. A paralegal supports lawyers through work that includes the following:

• Conducting legal research
• Drafting legal documents
• Maintaining files for civil or criminal cases

The bar to entry for paralegals is much lower than for attorneys. An associate degree is sufficient preparation for entry-level jobs for paralegals. 

RELATED: What Degree Do You Need to Be a Paralegal?

Where to Earn a Paralegal Studies Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University, a private institution located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offers an online paralegal/legal assisting associate degree. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and features a career-focused curriculum that students can complete in 20 months. 

For students with prior college credit, Purdue University is an option for finishing your associate’s degree in this field faster, too. Again, although the program is intended as a two-year program, the online school’s generous transfer policy ensures that credit previously completed at other institutions won’t go to waste. Purdue’s program awards an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Legal Support and Services that allows students to apply transfer credits and gain credit for prior work experience in relevant roles. 

21. Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Services

Are you looking for your place in the healthcare industry? Perhaps medical assisting is the career path for you. Medical assistants work alongside doctors and nurses in clinical patient care. Their work may include measuring vital signs, drawing blood and managing medical records.

Where to Earn a Medical Assisting Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University offers a medical assisting program that takes just 20 months to complete. This associate degree is a hybrid program. While students take all of their courses online, they must meet face-to-face with a proctor at a health facility for some hands-on clinical experiences and complete a 180-hour externship at a medical clinic or doctor’s office. 

22. Associate of Applied Science in Addiction Counseling

Substance abuse and addiction remain a major problem in the United States. If you want to be part of the solution, consider a career in addiction counseling. 

In online associate degree programs in addiction counseling, students take coursework in areas like: 

• Theories of addiction 
• Addiction and the family
• Assessment  and treatment planning 
• Co-occurring disorders 
• Individual and group counseling 
• Motivational counseling and interviewing 
• Case management 
• Crisis intervention 
• Trauma recovery 
• Ethics in addiction counseling

Where to Earn a Design Studies Associate Degree Fast

Beal University in Bangor, ME, offers a 100% online associate degree in addiction counseling. The private for-profit institution is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. The school also offers an accelerated online diploma in addiction counseling that takes 14 months to complete and a 42-month bachelor’s degree. 

23. Associate of Arts in Healthcare Management

Healthcare businesses rely on professionals with excellent management skills to keep them running efficiently and operating at their best. With an associate degree in healthcare management, you can break into the exciting, fast-growing field of managed healthcare. By combining studies in both healthcare and business, online associate degree programs in healthcare management give students the tools to succeed. Coursework typically includes topics like: 

• Organizational structure of healthcare
• Trends in modern managed healthcare
• Ethics in the medical field

Throughout their coursework, students seeking associate degrees develop skills for a wide range of management tasks, like planning and staffing. By the time they graduate, students will be ready to work in roles such as:

• Medical administrators
• Case coordinators
• Office managers
• Risk managers

Where to Earn a Healthcare Management Associate Degree Fast

At Pima Medical Institute in Albuquerque, NM, the healthcare administration associate degree program takes 20 months to complete online. This institution is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. Students who already have some healthcare education can transfer as many as 28 credits into this online associate program. 

24. Associate of Applied Science in Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist

Medical insurance plays a major role in today’s healthcare system, at least in the United States. The need for doctors’ offices and hospitals to handle a massive amount of extensive insurance forms has created positions dedicated solely to insurance billing and coding. That reality makes billing and coding a strong career choice. 

Associate degree holders with a background in insurance billing and coding can work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, outpatient medical facilities, nursing homes and home healthcare services. Students can use this college degree to prepare for jobs such as: 

• Insurance billing and coding specialist
• Medical clerk
• Insurance claims analyst
• Medical office assistant
• Health information specialist

Associate degree programs in this field typically include coursework in:

• Medical terminology
• Coding for procedures and diagnoses
• Computer databases for managing patient information

Where to Earn an Insurance Billing and Coding Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University offers an Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist online associate program. The curriculum takes 20 months to complete and prepares students for professional certifications such as: 

• The National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) Certification 
• The American Academy of Professional Coders’ Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Certification
• The American Health Information Management Association’s Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) Certification

25. Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science

Another online associates degree to consider is an associate degree in fire science. Studying fire science at the associate degree level prepares graduates for a variety of firefighting and emergency services roles in their communities. Through a fire science curriculum, students typically take classes in the following areas: 

• Fire prevention
• Firefighter safety
• Defense planning
• Firefighting strategy
• Hazardous materials management
• Building codes and code inspection

RELATED: The 10 Best Online Fire Science Degree Bachelor’s Programs

Where to Earn a Fire Science Associate Degree Fast

The fastest online associate degrees in fire science currently available are programs that welcome transfer credit hours and award credit for work experience and military service. 

Take the associate in fire science program offered through Purdue University Global as an example. Purdue’s fire science associate degree is technically a two-year program, but students can finish faster if they have prior education or work experience to apply. If you already have some firefighting experience gained through serving in the military, you might be interested in Purdue’s PME2Degree, in particular. Your military service experience can help reduce the time it will take you to get an associate degree. Even better, the U.S. Fire Administration also recognizes Purdue University as an official Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education institution (FESHE), so students can trust that they’re getting a great education. 

Another option to consider for a fast associate degree in fire science if you have prior college coursework is the American Military University. American Military University is part of the American Public University System and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Although AMU’s 60-credit online Associate of Science in Fire Science program normally takes two years to complete, the school allows transfer students to bring up to 45 credits of prior college coursework with them. With the maximum amount of transfer credits, you could finish your degree in just one term. This program is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. Courses can be eight to 16 weeks long.

Conclusion

For students who are eager to earn a degree quickly, accelerated associate’s programs are a fast way to achieve this goal.

RELATED: 50 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs

Taking advantage of accelerated programs, competency-based curricula and transfer credits can help you earn your associate degree faster than you ever thought possible.

Our Fast Degree Series

– Fastest Overall Programs
– Fastest Online Associates Degrees
– Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degrees
– Fastest Online Master’s Degrees
– Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

Related Resources: 

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

50 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree?

What Salary Can I Expect With a Human Resources Management Degree?

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Information Technology Specialist?

For Further Reading: 

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Exciting Jobs: The Top 15 Jobs for Adrenaline Seekers

The post 25 Fastest Online Associates Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Why should you earn a Master’s in Information Systems? A master’s level education represents a high level of investment both in terms of time, finances, and mental bandwidth. In the case of the information systems industry, specialization and knowledge are key–and the field is defined by a level of complexity that leads to many of the best job opportunities being gated behind extensive educational requirements and years of professional experience. 

Given the technical expertise required to excel in the upper echelons of the profession, a Master’s in Information Systems represents an ideal in-road to the job market. And as the industry experiences explosive growth year after year, many new programs are starting to offer this degree–both on-campus and online. 

Online variants of this degree are often designed from the ground up to accommodate adult learners and working students with even the most hectic of schedules. Simply put, there are more high-end options for earning your Master’s of Information Systems than ever before, many of which offer surprisingly affordable tuitions or generous financial aid packages, and in some cases both.

Our researchers have done the leg work and have compiled the best of the best options to consider–programs that package comprehensive and academically rigorous curriculums in flexible and convenient online formats. The programs listed below have been organized according to metrics that we believe will be most meaningful to prospective students: graduation rate, average tuition costs, financial aid packages, and representation in trusted publications and other rankings. 

1 Florida State University

Florida State University (FSU) brings top-tier degree programs to the comfort of your own home or office through its rapidly expanding online education programs. These programs leverage world-class faculty and student-centric teaching philosophies to groom each student for success in their careers. The FSU College of Business specifically tailors its programs to represent the needs of real world job markets. Students progress through coursework that emphasizes on-demand skill sets and models for problem solving. 

Specifically, the FSU College of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS). The program consists of 11 courses that emphasize the infusion of technical skill with business knowledge. Students who have yet to earn the necessary baccalaureate prerequisites might want to consider the alternative program: Combined Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems/Master of Science in Management Information Systems (BS/MS-MIS) Pathway.

RELATED: The 20 Best Masters in Cyber Security Online

The curriculum of the program is organized into courses such as the following: 

• Information and Technology Management
• Systems Analysis & Design
• Database Development & Management
• Project Management
• Corporate Information Security
• Business Intelligence
• Knowledge Management

Learn more about Florida State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

2 California State University – Fullerton

The California State University (CSUF) College of Business and Economics is the largest AACSB accredited business school in California, and offers a number of nationally renowned degree programs that are helmed by faculty with countless accolades that validate their expertise–both as professionals and as educators. 

The College’s cohort model really demonstrates its value through its network of more than 65,000 graduates, who are now professionals working at the high-end of their respective fields. Graduates of the College often go on to find professional opportunities with the cohort groups they worked with throughout their degree program. 

The CSUF College of Business and Economics offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Technology that is completed through 30 units of coursework. Before students begin the program, they are required to complete an orientation course which emphasizes how to make the most of one’s time in the program. Students can also choose to specialize by enrolling in one of two specialty tracks: Data Science or IT Management.

Learn more about California State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

3 Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the premier hubs for online education for students around the world through hundreds of online degree and certification programs. The ASU W. P. Carey School of Business offers a robust selection of undergraduate and graduate level programs that are designed to be efficient and affordable. Program curriculums are compact and focus on only the most important information in order to offer accelerated tracks. 

The ASU W. P. Carey School of Business offers an online Master of Science in Information Systems Management (MS-ISM). The program offers specialty tracks that are designed to represent on-demand opportunities in the job market in following areas: Cloud, Big Aata, and Tech Consulting. The program is completed at a blistering pace of just 12 months, making it one of the most efficient and affordable programs of its kind. 

Learn more about Arizona State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

4 The University of Texas at Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas offers a number of career-centric degree programs that position students to build lifelong success in their careers. The UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management in particular offers forward-facing degree programs that combine specialized tracks with in-depth curriculums in order to prepare students to take on positions of leadership after graduation. The Naveen Jindal School of Management frames its degree programs in the context of business management and industry. 

The UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Technology and Management. The distinguishes itself in two primary offerings that set it apart. Firstly, the program facilitates more than 400 internships every academic year, meaning that online students will have access to unparalleled professional grooming. Secondly, the program offers one of the most robust selections of specialization-tracks:

• Business Intelligence and Analytics
• Digital Product Management
• Cybersecurity Management
• Enterprise Systems
• Healthcare IT
• IT Consulting

Learn more about the University of Texas at Dallas’ Online Master’s in Information Systems

5 University of Illinois – Springfield

The University of Illinois System leverages a large network of schools and infrastructure in offering a number of online degree programs. The University of Illinois is consistently recognized for its traditions of academic excellence, which most importantly translate well into impressive career outcomes among graduates. Graduates of the University of Illinois go on to find success throughout their careers. 

The University of Illinois offers a graduate level online Management Information Systems program. The program provides a curriculum that seamlessly combines the technical side of the field with the business savvy needed to thrive in mid-to-upper management positions. Specifically, students of the program will progress through the following curriculum: 

• Technical Foundations of Information Systems
• Management Information Systems
• Managerial Decision Support Systems or Strategic Decision Support Systems
• Management of Database Systems
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Telecommunications
• Business Process Modeling and IT Governance
• Business Process Management and Innovation
• Project Management
• MIS Design and Research Methods
• MIS Elective
• Data Warehousing or Information Security
• Graduate Project and Seminar or MIS Capstone
• One approved MIS elective or MIS Thesis and Seminar

Learn more about University of Illinois’ Online Master’s in Information Systems

6 West Texas A&M University

The West Texas A&M University Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business offers a number of prestigious degree programs with specialty and technical tracks. The College’s degree programs have earned dozens of accolades consisting of top-spot rankings with the Princeton Review and US News & World Report. The College’s degree programs include: a Master in Business Administration (MBA) with several emphasis options, and Master of Science degrees in Computer Information Systems & Business Analytics (MSCISBA), in Finance and Economics (MSFE), and Professional Accounting (MPA).

The West Texas A&M University Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business offers a fully online Masters of Science in Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics (MS CISBA). The program is completed through 36 credit hours of coursework on an asynchronous schedule, meaning each student progresses through the program at a self-set pace. This is ideal for working students and adult learners who have many responsibilities to juggle.

Learn more about West Texas A&M University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

7 University of Colorado 

The University of Colorado (CU) Online is a well-respected pioneer of online education, having launched its distance education program nearly 30 years ago. CU Online has used this time to iterate and improve on its online programs, which is likely why so many of its programs rank among the best of their kind. CU Online differentiates itself from competition by developing its degree programs to reflect the needs and expectations of real-world employers. Students looking for career-first degree programs need look no further.  

CU Online offers an online Master of Science in Information Systems program that infuses managerial training with technical skill-building. The program offers both full-time and part-time pacing options to accommodate working students and adult learners. Students can tailor their studies to match career aspirations by pursuing any of the following specialized tracks: 

• Business Intelligence
• Cybersecurity and Information Assurance
• General Track (General Curriculum)

Learn more about the University of Denver’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

8 Missouri University of Science & Technology

The Missouri University of Science & Technology (MST) Business and Information Technology (BIT) department specializes in degree programs that prime students for building successful careers in STEM and technology related careers. Beyond offering comprehensive career-focused curriculums, students can further improve their competitiveness in the job market by completing a number of specialized graduate certificates in on-demand areas. 

Specifically though, the MST BIT department offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Science and Technology (MS IST). The program makes use of the Laboratory for Information Technology Evaluation to offer a curriculum-focus on human-computer interaction where students can get hands-on experience in virtual labs. The program can be completed in just 12 to 24 months if completed on a full-time basis, or 24 to 36 months if completed on a part-time basis. 

Learn more about Missouri University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

9 Colorado State University

Colorado State University (CSU) is quickly becoming a hub for high-end, academically rigorous degree programs for adult learners and non-traditional learners. Each degree program is helmed by world class faculty who hold the highest degree in their field, and have demonstrated remarkable success as professionals as well. CSU faculty also take on the role of mentor and advisor in their students’ lives, and help them to build a solid foundation from which to launch successful careers. 

CSU offers a fully online Master of Computer Information Systems (M.C.I.S.) as part of the Western Regional Graduate Program exchange (WICHE) program. The program is one of the elite few that is fully AACSB-accredited. Students can complete the program on-campus or online on a schedule that best matches their desired work-life balance, either over 3 or 5 years depending on whether students enroll on a full-time or part-time basis. 

Learn more about Colorado State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

10 New Jersey Institute of Technology

The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is one of the country’s leading polytechnic universities. New Jersey is home to more than 30 of the world’s leading technology companies, a network that the NJIT Ying Wu College of Computing leverages to create both learning opportunities and professional opportunities for students. The College offers the following degree programs: 

• Bioinformatics – M.S.
• Business & Information Systems – M.S.
• Computer Science – M.S.
• Computing and Business – M.S.
• Cyber Security and Privacy – M.S.
• Data Science – M.S – Computational Track
• Information Systems – M.S.
• Information Technology and Administration Security – M.S.
• Software Engineering – M.S.

The Master of Science in Information Systems program is offered online, and provides students with some of the most extensive options for specialization available on the higher ed market. The core curriculum however, is conferred through the following courses: 

• Web Systems Development
• Enterprise Database Management
• System Analysis and Design
• Data Analytics for Info System
• Business Process Innovation

Learn more about New Jersey Institute of Technology Online Master’s in Information Systems

11 Bellevue University

Bellevue University offers an array of online degree programs designed from the ground up to meet students wherever they are in life–whether that is as a first-time student, working student, or adult learner. As such, each degree program is meant to cultivate on-demand skill sets and the high-value knowledge that employers expect. Bellevue University models its program curriculums on the best-practices in higher education, and the real-world needs of respective job markets. 

Bellevue University offers a fully online Master of Science in Management Information Systems that is modeled on the best practices and standards set by the Association for Computing Machinery for IS Management and Technology (ACM). Students will further fine-tune their program by choosing from one of the following specializations: 

• Business administration
• Business analytics
• Cybersecurity
• Information security management
• Information technology project management

Learn more about Bellevue University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

12 Oklahoma State University

Oklahoma State University is a comprehensive research university that specializes in offering career-focused degree programs in engineering and technology, human services, business, education, and liberal arts. Students will participate in industry-defining research and will explore the fundamental paradigms and dynamics that influence job markets and employer expectations. 

OSU offers a fully online Master of Science in Management Information Systems Program (MS in MIS) that positions students to build successful careers at the intersection of business and data science. The program is consistently recognized as one of the best programs of its kind in numerous trusted publications. Students will progress through a curriculum based on the following subjects:

• Business
• Database Management
• Data Warehousing
• Systems Analysis
• Programming for Analytics
• Descriptive Analytics
• Visualization and Professional Development

Learn more about Oklahoma State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

13 Minot State University

The Minot State University College of Business offers affordable degree programs that train students to recognize opportunities and seize them in order to advance their careers. The University continues to expand, moving more of its most successful programs online where more students can benefit from them. The College of Business also specifically looks to prepare students to work in a world that is becoming increasingly global.

 The Minot State University College of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS). The program is one of few that is designed for preparing students to take on roles of executive management. But the curriculum is also comprehensive, and graduates go on to successful careers in the following areas: 

• Consulting
• Data Administration
• Systems Integration
• Networking, Telecom and Infrastructure
• Managing Sourcing and Global Projects
• Consumer Products and Services
• Project Management
• Software Development

Learn more about Minot State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

14 University of the Cumberlands

The University of the Cumberlands is one of the largest and most affordable universities in Kentucky, and has recently expanded rapidly into the online education space. A defining element of the University of the Cumberlands is its commitment to providing a career-focused curriculum framed in the context of christian principles. This translates to programs that train students to act as leaders and role models in their careers. 

The University of the Cumberlands offers a unique degree information systems program, specifically an Online Master in Information Systems Security. The program is broken down into two major core inquiries–cyber security and information assurance. Graduates of the program go on to successful careers in the following fields:

• Computer and Information Systems Manager
• IT Security Manager
• Network and Computer Systems Administrator
• Database Administrator

Learn more about the University of the Cumberlands’ Online Master’s in Information Systems

15 Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University College of Business’ the Department of Management & Information Systems offers a number of degree programs at the associate, undergraduate, and graduate level. The Department of Management & Information Systems is helmed by world class faculty who have worked at the forefront of their fields–both in terms of academics and professional achievement. The Department also works hard to train students for positions of leadership through various avenues of business operations. 

Students can earn an online Master’s of Science in Information Systems that is fully accredited by the AACSB, which is one of the most elite accrediting bodies for business schools. The curriculum delves deeply into the following subjects: technology, systems analysis, database design, and business telecommunication. 

Learn more about Mississippi State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

16 Stevenson University

Stevenson University distinguishes itself by providing students with career-focused degree programs packaged in small class sizes that facilitate student-instructor engagement. The Stevenson Career Connections program provides a structure to connect students with potential employers, so that upon graduation students can hit the ground running. Faculty have real-world experience and bring this experience to their students so that they know how to maximize their opportunities after graduation. 

Steven University offers an Online’s Master’s in Business and Technology Management. The program is a non-traditional format for the study of information systems, and shifts the focus from technical knowledge to macro-level inquiries based on understanding the relationship between existing and emerging technology and modern business. Students can choose between one of two tracks: Emerging Technology or Innovative Leadership.

Learn more about Stevenson University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

17 Wright State University

The Wright State University Raj Soin College of Business offers innovative, forward-facing business degree programs that consistently rank among the best of their kind. Graduates of the College go on to become industry leaders–working at the forefront of business and technology. At the Raj Soin College of Business students learn how to actualize and maximize their potential as both students and professionals. 

The Raj Soin College of Business offers a fully online Master of Information Systems. Online education is balanced by the program’s emphasis of real world learning and the facilitating of experiential opportunities. Students of the program are groomed to take on positions of leadership in the following fields: 

• Systems Analysis
• Business Systems Designs
• Information Technology Management.

Learn more about Wright State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

18 Tarleton State University

Tarleton State University leverages seven academic colleges to offer a wide array degrees: 

• Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
• Business
• Education
• Graduate Studies
• Health Sciences and Human Service
• Liberal and Fine Arts
• Science and Technology

The Graduate Studies College offers a fully online Master of Science in Information Systems. The program has ranked among the best of its kind–most notably for its affordability and overall value. And amazingly, 100% of graduates of the program report being satisfied with their investment. 

Learn more about Tarleton State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

19 Dakota State University

Dakota State University looks to teach students how to build prosperity–both for themselves and for their communities. Its programs have received national attention for their adaptability–being constantly updated in response to industry trends and developments in the market. Program curriculums are developed around core values of academic integrity and intellectual curiosity. 

Dakota State University offers a Master of Science in Information Systems that emphasizes technical skill and knowledge. Students will master all the various applications of information technology in business today such as:

• Computer-Aided Software Engineering (CASE) Programming
• Internet and Electronic Commerce
• Network Operating Environments
• Decision Support Systems (DSS)
• Database Management

Learn more about Dakota State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

20 Georgia College & State University

Georgia College & State University offers premier liberal arts online degree programs for both traditional and nontraditional students. GCSU frames its technology program curriculums within the context of a liberal arts framework, that is, students learn how to apply practical problem solving to theoretical problems and vice versa. 

GCSU offers a fully online Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS) that is completed through a combination of asynchronous and synchronous learning formats so that students get the best of both worlds–the flexibility to progress through coursework at a comfortable pace, while still benefiting from organized lectures and collaborative peer projects. The program’s curriculum is built around core tenets of project management, analysis, and strategic planning.

Learn more about Georgia College & State University’s Online Master’s in Information Systems

Related Resources:

What Is the Benefit of a Degree in Cybersecurity vs. Network Security?

The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Information Systems appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

What Business Degree Makes the Most Money?

Many business careers have six-figure or near-six-figure salaries. Dozens of business and related jobs earn more than double the median annual salaries for all occupations.

Our list below of the highest-paying business degrees includes the 15 business degrees that prepare students for the positions with the highest median salary. 

High-paying business careers are out there. To get them, you will need a solid education and an in-demand degree.

As you’ll notice, the highest-paying business majors on our list run the gamut from undergraduate to graduate and generalist to highly specialized. That’s because running successful business ventures takes all kinds of skills. 

RELATED: What Are the Highest-Paying Business Entry-Level Jobs?

Some occupations in business administration call for an undergraduate degree. Others, like high-ranking management positions and roles that require highly specialized knowledge, need more advanced study.

Depending on what you want to do, you may need a broad or specialized business degree. You may major in a field closely related to business or a subject that seems less directly involved with the business world. What all of the highest-paying business degrees have in common is the significant earning potential they offer to students. 

Here are 15 degrees that lead to a high-paying business career.

Related: How Many Jobs Are Available in Finance?

1. Master of Business Administration

First on our list is undeniably one of the best business masters degrees: the Master of Business Administration (MBA).  

The MBA degree is the traditional pathway for business professionals who want to advance into high-level (and high-paying) roles. The MBA is a graduate business degree that includes core courses in a broad range of business subjects, according to U.S. News & World Report, such as:

• finance
• accounting, management
• marketing
• strategy
• operations
• information systems 

The traditional MBA program takes two years of full-time graduate study to complete. Many schools now offer these masters degrees in business programs in both part-time and accelerated study options in their online and on-campus programs.

RELATED: How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Degree?

What leads many people to consider an MBA the best business masters degree is its versatility. The MBA program gives you a flexible degree that includes graduate-level study across a range of business subjects. The MBA appeals to a range of employers in the world of business and finance.

Despite their strengths as generalist business masters degrees, MBAs do offer some opportunity to gain more in-depth, specialized knowledge of particular business subjects. Students may choose a specialization or concentration in a subject of interest.

RELATED: What Classes Will I Have to Take for a Degree in Business Administration?

Among the most popular MBA specializations are:

• Finance
• Supply chain management
• International business
• Computer information systems
• Entrepreneurship 
• Marketing 
• Sustainability 

There are plenty of roles you can hold with your MBA. It helps to choose a well-respected school and a sought-after specialization. Many of the more lucrative business career paths are open to students who earn an MBA with a relevant concentration.

Chief executives like CEOs typically need an MBA.  Chief executives have the highest-earning role in the business world. The median salary for chief executives was almost five times the median wage for all occupations in 2021, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) reported. As a result, if you’re asking “What business major makes the most money?”, the MBA is probably the best answer. 

Chief executives are top managers who hold titles such as president, executive director and managing director. They oversee the big-picture direction of the company or organization, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Management analyst is another possible job for an MBA graduate. While not nearly as lucrative as chief executive, management analyst still ranks high on the list of the top-paying business careers, with the BLS reporting a near-six-figure annual salary.

A management analyst acts as a business consultant. They provide valuable advice that helps companies improve productivity, efficiency and profitability. An MBA is an important credential for those who want to be chief executives, management analysts and other high-level business professionals. The degree alone won’t help you get to these senior positions. You will also need a great deal of experience and the leadership abilities to inspire confidence in companies and employees.

Job Titles: Chief Executive, Management Analyst

Median Salaries (2021): $179,520, $93,000

Occupation Group: Management 

2. Bachelor’s in Management Information Systems

Some of the highest-paying jobs in the business world revolve around technology. A degree in computer science or information science can help prepare students for technological roles. These play an important part in the success of modern businesses. If you want one of the most profitable positions in the business world, you will need more than just computer knowledge. You must develop a background in business theory and practices. You can then apply that computer knowledge to help your company achieve its goals.

RELATED: The 20 Best Masters in Cyber Security Online

A bachelor’s degree in management information systems (MIS) is a great choice. It combines business classes with the mathematics, software development and computer programming courses of a computer science program. By the time you graduate from an undergraduate MIS degree program, you will understand how computer coding and technology works. You will also learn to use computer technology to solve an organization’s problems.

A degree in MIS can help you get a position as a computer and information systems manager. This program is sometimes called information technology (IT). Managers and IT project managers figure out what a company’s technology needs are based on their goals and challenges. They implement systems that meet these needs.

Even the lowest-paid information systems managers have a fairly high salary. The BLS reported that computer and information systems managers at the 10th percentile – that is, the 10 percent of workers in a given occupation who earn the least – still earned a median wage that amounted to upwards of $30,000 more per year than other operations management roles in 2021.

Earning your MIS degree can also qualify you for a role as a database administrator. Database administrators are responsible for creating, maintaining and keeping secure the electronic databases that have the information a business uses to operate. While not quite as high-paying as a manager role, this technology position had a median salary of $96,710 in 2021, according to the BLS. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicted for this occupation a positive job outlook with faster-than-average job growth.

Job Titles: Computer and Information Systems Manager, Database Administrator

Median Salaries (2021): $159,010, $96,710 

Occupation Group: Management 

3. Bachelor’s in Marketing

Getting people to buy your product or service is crucial to the success of a business. Whether a company focuses primarily on business to business (B2B), business to consumer (B2C) or business to government (B2G) transactions, you need marketing and sales professionals on your team. In a bachelor’s degree program in marketing, students learn about consumer behavior and how to influence people’s purchasing decisions. They take coursework such as:

• advertising
• sales
• marketing research
• strategic marketing 
• marketing management

RELATED: The 20 Best Online Marketing Degrees (Bachelor’s)

Students must understand the data behind marketing campaigns. It is just as important for them to learn to create winning advertisements and marketing strategies. You should expect to take classes in finance, statistics and analytics. Some programs include specialized aspects of marketing like social media marketing, e-commerce and public relations. Marketing majors take business classes such as:

• economics
• management
• business law and ethics

When you earn your marketing degree you can begin a path to the role of marketing and sales manager. The job duties may be different from one employer to the next. It can even be different from one job title to another. Marketing and advertising managers work more behind the scenes. They develop the campaigns and strategies that promote a company and its products or services. Sales managers, on the other hand, focus more on leading teams of sales representatives. They handle tasks like:

• training sales staff
• setting sales goals
• measuring progress toward those goals

The salary of a marketing and sales manager depends on the size of the employer and scope of the job duties. A marketing manager for a major national or global corporation will earn more than a marketing manager for a small business that makes mostly local transactions. A bachelor’s degree in marketing will prepare you for more entry-level roles like marketing specialist.

RELATED: How Much Can I Make With a Degree in Digital Marketing? 

Job Titles: Marketing & Sales Manager, Marketing Specialist

Median Salaries (2021): $135,030, $63,920                 

Occupation Group: Management

4. Master’s in Finance

MBAs aren’t the only suitable masters degrees for business majors. Some of the top-paying business degrees are specialized master’s programs, like the Master of Finance degree. 

There are two kinds of graduate degrees in the field of finance. Some students earn an MBA in finance. This business degree is a master’s degree with an emphasis on business in general that includes some specialized studies in finance.

There is also a specialized finance degree available at the master’s level of study. This is business degree for graduate students who are looking to delve deeper into the field of finance rather than dividing their studies between a wide array of business subjects.

There are several reasons to consider earning a master’s in finance degree. For one thing, many employers are seeking candidates with a targeted educational background. Also, you can complete a traditional master’s in finance degree program in just one year. That’s half the amount of time it would take to earn an MBA in finance degree.

A master’s in finance degree helps students who want to work as financial managers. These management professionals are in charge of the overall financial health of a company or organization.

Financial managers handle a wide range of responsibilities. For example, they create financial statements. They oversee the efforts of finance workers. They analyze market trends to develop business forecasts.

Technically, it is possible to get a finance manager position with just a bachelor’s degree and extensive work experience. However, there will be strong competition for these management roles. Having a master’s degree and graduate-level skills in financial analysis and software can help candidates stand out from the crowd and impress prospective employers. In addition to a master’s degree, aspiring financial managers may also want to pursue professional credentials. Some of the most common credentials in financial management are: 

• The CFA Institute’s Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification
• The Association for Financial Professionals’ Certified Treasury Professional credential

Job Titles: Financial Manager

Median Salaries (2021): $131,710 

Occupation Group: Management  

5. Bachelor’s in Supply Management

All kinds of organizations, from retailers to manufacturers, need some form of supplies to keep their operations running. Supply management is the operational process of obtaining goods and materials for a company or organization’s use. This may be for internal use, for manufacturing purposes or retail sales. You might also hear related terms like supply chain management and logistics. 

Coursework that is common in undergraduate supply chain management degree programs includes: 

• introduction to supply management
• principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics
• strategic management
• supply chain strategy and practice
• manufacturing planning and control
• behavior and organization. 

Often, students also take more general business courses, such as classes in business leadership, business communications and business laws and ethics. Hands-on experiences and internship opportunities are an important part of many supply management degree programs. The experience students gain is valuable in helping them get started in the career field.

A bachelor’s degree in supply management can put you on the path to a career as a purchasing manager. This is a position with a six-figure median annual salary. Purchasing managers:

• develop and implement plans to get the products a business needs
• compare vendors and suppliers
• decide which business offers the best quality products or materials for the best price
• forge and maintain relationships with suppliers
• handle price and contract negotiations
• oversee the work of buyers and purchasing agents

The purchasing manager is a high-level role, one in which even the 10th percentile earned a salary around $77,310 as of 2021. To reach this position, candidates usually need a minimum of five years of experience acting as purchasing agents or buyers.

Job Titles: Purchasing Manager, Buyer or Purchasing Agent

Median Salaries (2021): $127,150, $63,470 

Occupation Group: Management

6. Master’s in Human Resources

Supplies aren’t the only thing businesses need to succeed. To run effectively, companies and organizations also need to have hardworking employees. They need those employees to be trained properly and working as efficiently as possible.

Graduate degree programs in human resources are among the best business masters degrees. These programs teach students how to handle the important administrative duties that relate to staffing and employee relations. In a master’s in human relations degree program, according to U.S. News & World Report, students take core courses such as:

• Employee and labor relations
• Organizational change
• Human relations management strategy
• Conflict management
• Employment and labor law
• Collective bargaining
• Human performance improvement
• Compensation and benefits

Students often choose to take elective courses that lead to a specialization in subjects such as project management, staffing and recruitment or training and development. Many master’s degree programs in human resources also include some sort of final capstone experience. This may take the form of an internship, thesis or research project.

RELATED: What Salary Can I Expect With a Human Resources Management Degree?

A master’s degree in this field gives you the skills needed to become a human resources manager. Lower-level human resources management roles are available to candidates with just an undergraduate degree. However, having a master’s degree will improve a candidate’s job prospects in this competitive field, according to the BLS.

Human resources managers serve an important role. They connect a company’s employees with its management and administration team and handle job duties such as recruiting staff and handling any employee issues that arise. Training and development manager is another role you can go for with a graduate degree in human resources. Unlike the more general role of human resources manager, these professionals focus on training the company’s workforce.

Both of these management roles typically require a minimum of five years of related work experience, often in roles such as human resources specialist or training and development specialist.

Job Titles: Human Resources Manager, Training and Development Manager

Median Salaries (2021): $126,230, $120,130

Occupation Group: Management

7. Master’s in Economics

Economics is the study of how resources are transferred and used. Money, real estate, natural resources, labor and time are studied in a bachelor’s program.

 In a master’s in economics degree program, students study: 

• theory and principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics
• Mathematics (such as statistics and econometrics)
• international economics
• labor economics
• financial economies and risk
• managerial economics
• applied econometrics
•  economic development and growth

While it’s not necessary to have an undergraduate degree in economics to get started in a graduate program in the subject, it is important to have a solid mathematics foundation. Undergraduate-level coursework in calculus is a prerequisite for most graduate economics programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. Some master’s in economics programs offer students the chance to specialize in a topic like advanced theory or financial economics.

A graduate degree in economics can prepare you for a career as an economist, a high-paying business-related role. Economists fit more closely in the category of social scientist than business professional. However, with a six-figure median annual salary and a lucrative $193,690 wage at the 90th percentile as of 2021, economist is among the highest-paying business careers all the same.

In the business world, economists don’t just study the production and distribution of various kinds of resources. They also use their findings to develop data-backed business recommendations.

More than one-third of economists work for the federal, state or local government. Many others work in management consulting or research and development services. An economics degree can prepare graduates for other roles, too. In fact, most students who graduate from an undergraduate economics degree program don’t go on to become economists. Instead they find business roles such as research assistant, financial analyst and market research analyst, according to Forbes.

Job Titles: Economist

Median Salaries (2021): $105,630

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

8. Bachelor’s in Engineering

On the surface, one of the best-paying business degrees, engineering, may not seem like a business degree at all. Engineering degrees incorporate a great deal of math, science, computer software training and practice in engineering design. Still, the architectural and engineering services industry is a major part of the business world. Success as an engineer hinges on an understanding of business principles as well as engineering principles. Engineers need to take into account clients’ needs, budgets and timetables in planning an engineering project. 

At the undergraduate as well as graduate level, most engineering degree programs focus on a particular discipline of engineering. Each of these disciplines includes studies in core courses such as:

• Science
• Mathematics
• principles of engineering

All high-quality engineering programs allow students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working in laboratory and design studio settings. Most encourage or require some form of an internship opportunity. However, the precise curriculum of an engineering program depends heavily on the specialization the student is pursuing. Among the most popular engineering specializations are:

• civil engineering
• computer engineering
• construction engineering technology
• electrical engineering
•  mechanical engineering
• petroleum engineering
• software engineering

Students majoring in computer engineering or software engineering may devote much of their studies to computer science or computer programming.

RELATED: Which Degree Is Best for a Software Engineer?

Students in a civil engineering program focus more on engineering mechanics and systems.

Becoming an engineer in your chosen discipline is the traditional career path following an engineering degree program. However, some engineering graduates choose a different, and at times more lucrative, career. The $103,710 annual salary the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported for sales engineers in 2021 was more than the median salaries of:

• Electrical and electronics engineers
• Mining and geological engineers
• Marine engineers
• Materials engineers
• Biomedical engineers
• Health and safety engineers
• Environmental engineers
• Mechanical engineers
• Industrial engineers
• Civil engineers
• Agricultural engineers

Sales engineers develop the same level of engineering knowledge in their discipline as students who go on to become professional engineers, but they put that knowledge to work in the business world. A sales engineer is responsible for selling highly technical products and services to clients, typically businesses. Sales engineers are necessary when the product is so technical that it takes a salesperson with a college-level engineering background to understand the science behind the product. They can explain that information to clients in clear, accessible language.

Job Titles: Sales Engineer

Median Salaries (2021): $103,710

Occupation Group: Sales

9. Bachelor’s in Actuarial Science

Actuarial science is the study of risk. Majors in actuary science degree programs have strong analytical skills. They use numerical data to identify the mathematical likelihood of an outcome occurring. An actuarial science program typically includes coursework in:

• Algebra
• Calculus
• Probability and statistics
• Microeconomics
• Macroeconomics
• Business and finance

In addition to these core courses in math and business, actuarial science majors can benefit from taking classes in computer science and communication. 

Graduates from an actuarial science program need to have skills in:

• Public speaking
• Written communication
• Computer programming
• Using databases, spreadsheets and statistical analysis tools

College degree programs in actuarial science may also include preparation for the actuarial exams candidates must pass to attain certification. There are around 200 colleges across the globe that offer degree programs in actuarial science.

RELATED: What Degree Do I Need to Be an Actuary?

A degree in actuarial science is an excellent start to a career as an actuary. These mathematics professionals earn a lucrative living. The $105,900 median salary the BLS reported for 2021 lands them among the best-paid employees in the business world. They also had an exceptionally high 10th percentile wage of $63,260 and 90th percentile wage of $206,820. More than 70 percent of actuaries worked for the finance and insurance industry as of 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Other actuaries find employment in the professional services industry, management and government entities.

Some of the different types of actuaries include:

• Health insurance actuaries
• Life insurance actuaries
• Property and casualty insurance actuaries
• Pension and retirement benefits actuaries
• Enterprise risk actuaries

Their work helps determine the terms and rates of insurance policy contracts as well as companies’ financial strategies. Earning certification is essential for full professional status as an actuary. This requires successful completion of professional actuarial exams.

Job Titles: Actuary

Median Salaries (2021): $105,900

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

10. Bachelor’s in Health Administration or Health Management

Managing the business side of the healthcare industry requires a background in both business studies and the issues facing healthcare providers. An undergraduate degree program in health administration or health management combines these studies in a focused curriculum. It equips graduates with the skills needed to oversee the operations of a hospital or medical practice.

Business courses are an important component of a health administration curriculum. According to U.S. News & World Report, students in a healthcare management program typically take classes in the following subjects of study: 

• Human resources
• Economics
• Finance and leadership
• Health law and regulations
• Standards for healthcare staff
• Policy issues in healthcare
• Medical facilities management
• Critical issues in healthcare 

Some health administration programs allow students to pursue a specialization such as health care informatics systems, long-term care management or public administration. Often, students complete an internship or practicum to attain hands-on work experience.

With a degree in health administration or health management, you can be on your way to a role as a medical and health services manager. Sometimes called health care executives or health care administrators, these management professionals don’t provide care themselves. They direct and coordinate care to make sure that medical facilities run efficiently and that patients get adequate treatment. 

With a $101,340 median salary and a $205,620 90th percentile wage as of 2021, medical and health services manager is among the most lucrative business management positions. This is also a rapidly growing management role. The BLS predicts a “much faster than average” 28% job growth rate for opportunities for medical and health services managers between 2021 and 2031. 

Nearly a third of medical and health services managers oversaw the operations of hospitals as of 2021. Others worked in physicians’ offices, nursing homes, home health services and government entities.

Job Titles: Medical and Health Services Manager

Median Salaries (2021): $101,340

Occupation Group: Management

11. Bachelor’s in Finance

Finance is consistently one of the highest-paid business majors for undergraduates. 

At the bachelor’s level, a finance degree program introduces students to the basics of business, accounting and financial reporting and analysis. Later in the curriculum, U.S. News & World Report noted, students will encounter more in-depth coursework in subjects such as the following:

• Risk management
• International finance
• Investment principles
• Corporate finance
• Portfolio management
• Financial institutions and markets
• Insurance
• Financial management
• Regulatory issues in finance

By the time students graduate with their bachelor’s in finance degree they should understand:

• The different types of financial assets and how to manage them to promote growth
• The factors that determine an organization’s financial health and how to evaluate those factors
• How to budget for the company’s expenses and analyze the company’s finances and the industry’s financial markets

Some undergraduate finance programs include a specific focus on financial planning, according to the BLS.

Among the most lucrative careers you can attain with a bachelor’s degree in finance are personal financial advisor and financial analyst.

A personal financial advisor works directly with individuals helping them plan for and achieve their financial goals. These professionals might help clients weigh their options when it comes to:

• making investment decisions
• saving for college or retirement
• planning their estate
• minimizing their tax burden
• purchasing insurance or real estate mortgages

Financial analysts, on the other hand, focus more narrowly on analyzing investment opportunities. They may work with individuals, but they also work with companies. Financial analysts find employment in banks, mutual funds, pension funds, insurance companies and securities firms, the BLS reported. Some work on the “buy-side,” where they focus on obtaining investments. Others work on the “sell-side” and seek investors to purchase their stocks and bonds.

Personal financial advisors have a higher median salary ($94,170, as of 2021), but financial analysts have an exceptionally high 10th percentile wage among financial specialists ($57,900). This data shows that even the lowest-paid analysts are earning a good income.

Job Titles: Personal Financial Advisor, Financial Analyst

Median Salaries (2021): $94,170, $91,580

Occupation Group: Financial Specialist

12. Master’s in Statistics

Statistics is the scientific study of analyzing and interpreting numerical data. Students majoring in statistics commonly take a blend of math and science courses that include:

• Calculus
• Linear algebra
• Survey methodology
• Perimental design
• Statistical theory
• Probability

Graduates of statistics degree programs need to have a well-rounded background. Students often take courses in engineering, physical science, chemistry, biology and health services, particularly as undergraduates.

Statistics students don’t work only with formulas but also with computer software. In fact, using data analysis software is so integral to the study of statistics that it is also recommended that students take some computer science and computer programming courses. Some entry-level roles in the field of statistics are available to graduates from a bachelor’s degree program. However, most roles require that candidates hold at least a master’s degree, if not a Ph.D.

RELATED: Statistics Jobs: What Kind of Job Can You Get With a Degree in Statistics?

Statistician is the job title given to math professionals who gather and evaluate data through statistical methods to gain insight into solving problems. A statistician is responsible for everything from figuring out what data can help a company gain valuable insight to devising and implementing ways to attain that data and finally analyzing the information they collect. Statisticians work in several different employment environments, including federal government agencies and college and university settings. In the business world, most statisticians find jobs in:

• scientific research and development services
• finance and insurance
• management consulting services

For statisticians, the career outlook is highly positive. While the expected increase in job opportunities for all occupations is just five percent between 2021 and 2031, statisticians are looking at a “much faster than average” growth rate of 31 percent. With a median salary of $95,570 and a 90th percentile wage of $157,300 as of 2021, statistician is one of the top-paying business careers and the third most lucrative math career.

Job Titles: Statistician

Median Salaries (2021): $95,570

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

13. Bachelor’s in Accounting

It’s a common misconception that an accounting degree is all about mathematics, according to U.S. News & World Report. True, you do need to have solid math skills to succeed in the degree path and any career that follows. Still, accounting is a business degree program, not a math program.

RELATED: How Long Does It Take to Become an Accountant?

Accounting is the work of preparing financial statements and reports. In a bachelor’s degree program in accounting, students take courses such as:

• Fundamentals of accounting
• Principles of accounting
• Auditing principles
• Internal auditing
• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Financial reporting
• Business law
• Finance
• Economics
• Business communications

By the time students graduate from an undergraduate accounting degree program, they will understand the workings of business transactions and how to prepare a wide variety of financial reports. They will not, however, have met the 150 semester hours of college study needed to be eligible for the certified public accountant (CPA) credential. For that reason, many graduates of bachelor’s in accounting degree programs go on to attain a master’s degree in accounting or an MBA.

RELATED: What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs With an Associates Degree in Accounting?

An undergraduate accounting degree can prepare you for a couple of possible positions in the business world. Financial examiner and accountant are the most notable. Accountants and auditors earned a median wage of $77,250 annually as of 2021, according to the BLS. They follow a fairly direct career path, work with individuals or companies to prepare accurate financial statements and offer advice for making smart financial decisions. Tax returns, balance sheets and income statements are just a few of the types of financial reports accountants are responsible for creating.

Financial examiners are the higher paid of the two occupations, earning a median salary of $81,090 per year. These professionals focus more narrowly on the rules and laws companies have to follow with regards to financial practices and reporting. Some financial examiners specialize in “risk scoping,” assessing the financial wealth of institutions such as banks and credit unions. Others are more concerned with “consumer compliance.” They ensure financial institutions abide by the laws designed to protect consumers from predatory lending practices. Nearly one-fifth of all financial examiners worked for the federal or state government as of 2021, according to the BLS. Other financial examiners work in credit inter-mediation, financial investments and management.

Job Titles: Financial Examiner, Accountant

Median Salaries (2021): $81,410, $77,250

Occupation Group: Financial Specialist

14. Bachelor’s or Master’s in Operations Research

Operations research is a math-heavy degree program. This is one of the highest paid business degrees that is best students for students with strong analytical and mathematics skills.

Core courses such as calculus, statistics and linear algebra are essential to success in the field of operations research. Students should also take enough computer science coursework to thoroughly understand the software used to run statistical analyses and model data. It’s also a good idea for operations research majors to take classes in subjects that need quantitative analysis, such as economics, political science and engineering.

Should you go for a bachelor’s degree in operations research, or a master’s degree? That depends on what you want to do with the degree. An undergraduate degree in operations research or a similar program is sufficient to attain some entry-level roles in the field, according to the BLS. However, there are some jobs you won’t be able to get unless you have a master’s degree or a Ph.D. Having an advanced degree can improve your job prospects considerably.

With a degree in operations research or a similar educational path, you can pursue a career as an operations research analyst. This math professional applies quantitative, statistical and analytical methods to data to develop solutions to real problems facing businesses and organizations. While their work uses mathematical principles, the challenges operations research analysts face aren’t quite as simple as solving an equation. These professionals don’t just look for any solution, but instead for the best solution. That requires analyzing the pros and cons of a variety of different actions.

One-quarter of operations research analysts worked in the finance and insurance industry as of 2021. Others found employment in professional and scientific services, manufacturing, management and the federal government. In addition to having a high median salary of $82,360, operations research analysts also enjoy a highly positive job outlook. The BLS predicts that operations research analysts will see a “much faster than average” job growth rate of 23 percent between 2021 and 2031.

Job Titles: Operations Research Analyst

Median Salaries (2021): $82,360

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

15. Master’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology

You might associate the field of psychology more with counseling or clinical treatment than with business. However, industrial-organizational psychology is a specialized discipline of psychology that focuses on how humans behave in the workplace and other organizations, according to the American Psychological Association.

You can pursue a master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology even if you didn’t major in psychology as an undergraduate student. You will just need to complete certain prerequisites, such as introductory and experimental psychology coursework. At the graduate level, The Princeton Review reported, coursework in industrial-organizational psychology includes:

• Psychology
• Human resources
• Business and management
• Organizational development
• Personnel selection
• Training in organizations, work motivation and attitudes
• Leadership and strategic change
• Performance measurement

Some form of field work may also be required. A typical master’s degree program in industrial-organizational psychology can be completed in one and a half to three years, The Princeton Review reported.

An industrial-organizational psychologist applies his or her knowledge of human behavior to the specific setting of the workplace. These psychology professionals help businesses find ways to improve productivity and workplace culture and resolve management and employee performance problems by implementing psychological principles and practices. Their goals may range from developing fair and constructive company policies to raising employee morale and developing effective working styles.

In most specialties of psychology, you need a Ph.D. to become a psychologist. Industrial-organizational psychology is an exception to that rule, the BLS reported. Candidates with a master’s degree can begin working in entry-level industrial-organizational psychologist roles.

With a median salary of $81,040 and a 90th percentile wage of $133,890 as of 2021, industrial-organizational psychologist is among the most lucrative business careers without a business degree.

Job Titles: Industrial Organizational Psychologist

Median Salaries (2021): $81,040

Occupation Group: Other Business-Related Occupation

Editor’s Note: No one educational or career path is right for everyone. If you aspire to rise to a well-paid position in the business world and make the big bucks, you need to weigh your options and consider all of the factors that will affect your professional life. What are your strengths and interests? How will you get the experience you need to advance to your dream career? This list is a guide for you to start off your research into the right degree program and career path for you. For more information about the highest-paying business careers, check out this resource from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.

DQ Staff

Updated April 2023

For Further Reading:

• What Self-Employed Career Opportunities Do You Have With a Business Degree?
• What Are the Easiest Graduate Degrees to Get in Business?
• What Government Jobs Can You Get With a Business Degree?
• What Should You Know When You Interview for a Job With a Degree in Business Administration?

The post 15 Top Highest-Paying Business Degrees appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

If you look at the U.S. Labor Department of Statistics you will notice the percentages of projected employment growth are all in double digits across the board. That’s excellent news for job seekers currently holding a healthcare-related degree as well as students trying to decide on their career path.

RELATED: The Best-Paying Jobs in Health Care: Top 15 Highest-Paying Medical Specialties

All salaries, education requirements and projected employment growth were sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website. If a particular career was not featured on the BLS site, Payscale.com was used for median salary.

1. Optometrist

Read the top line. Now the next line. Can you read the smallest line? Are you reading it with glasses, or your own naked eye? If you’re reading with glasses, odds are, you’ve met an optometrist. (You might have met an ophthalmologist, which is a medical doctor who treats eyes; an optometrist is Doctor of Optometry, specializing in corrective lenses, not medicine.) Optometrists check vision, prescribe lenses, and sometimes prescribe medications for minor eye disorders; some even do basic surgeries.

If you want to help people see better, but you’re not so interested in doing surgery or treating major diseases, consider optometry. It’s a very rewarding career, in the good you can do patients and the income you’ll make.

Median Salary: $97,000
Education Level: Doctorate
Projected employment growth: 24% increase between 2012 and 2022

2. Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse hits that sweet spot where schooling, pay, and responsibility balance out. You can become a registered nurse with an associate’s degree and a license, in only two or three years, and pay is high for such a low level of schooling. You spend a lot of time directly with patients, assessing their well-being, keeping them comfortable, and doing all of the many tasks that come up (medicines, needles, monitors, and bandages). You can specialize in areas such as pediatric, emergency, intensive care, and labor/delivery, or you can work as a school or camp nurse. Some nurses choose lucrative traveling positions.

It’s not a cushy job – you’ll be on your feet a lot, and during your shifts, stress can get pretty high. You’re responsible for people’s lives, after all. But there is no shortage of work for good nurses, and the more experience you get, the more in-demand you’ll be, and the higher pay you can negotiate for.

Median Salary: $65,000
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 19% increase between 2012 and 2022

3. Respiratory Therapist

Take a deep breath. Appreciate that? What if you couldn’t do it? For millions of Americans, breathing is a daily struggle. Whether from asthma, COPD, emphysema, or any number of other disorders, difficulty breathing calls for a specialist who can help relieve symptoms, do therapy to strengthen the lungs, and practice preventative care. That specialist is a Respiratory Therapist.

Although Respiratory Therapists need to continue their training and education throughout their career, as new technologies and therapies emerge, RT is one of the best-paid professions you can get with only an associate’s degree. Many respiratory therapists work with premature births, children, adults with chronic lung disorders, and the elderly, all demographics, and there is no expectation that the need for RTs will diminish; if anything, the profession is expected to grow.

Median Salary: $56,000
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 19% increase between 2012 and 2022

4. Hospital Administrator

An exploding medical sector means an unprecedented demand for Hospital Administrators. These are the people who keep the hospital in compliance with regulations, financially stable, staffed, and housed. They may not have direct contact with patients, but they make sure the hospital is there, and that qualified people are on call to take care of the sick and injured.

This is a job with significant responsibilities; whether it’s for-profit or non-profit, a hospital is an expensive operation, and the administrators are the ones who make sure the hospital is making money and staying afloat. Anything that goes wrong is on the heads of the administrators, so they often have to talk to the press and be available during emergency situations. And for that responsibility, they’re very well-paid. A Master’s of Business Administration is recommended, though some administrators are going for Public Health, and even Doctor of Public Health degrees.

Median Salary: $97,000
Education Level: Master’s degree
Projected employment growth: 23% increase between 2012 and 2022

5. Biomedical Engineer

Part of the excitement of working in medicine is using all of the amazing machines, tools, and gadgets that are being developed every day to heal people. Obviously, those incredible inventions don’t design themselves – that’s what Biomedical Engineers are for. Any innovation that has transformed some aspect of medicine in recent years, from brain-controlled prosthetics to imaging machines that can show the hair on a growing fetus, started out in a biomedical research and development facility.

If you like the idea of working in a lab, creating things that will improve and save lives, consider biomedical engineering. You only need a bachelor’s degree to get started, and pay is excellent for the education level.

Median Salary: $87,000
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 27% increase between 2012 and 2022

6. Dental Hygienist

Can you get past the fact you will be poking around in stranger’s mouths all day long? If so, you’re golden. You clean some teeth, examine for gingivitis and other oral diseases, maybe you do some sealant work and assist with fillings, round it out with patient education and you’ve got your shift in a nutshell.

A Dental Hygienist works for a team with Dentists and Dental Assistants. So for obvious reasons, you need to have excellent social and communication skills. Hygienist are paid very well given the fact that only a 2 year degree is the required amount of schooling for this position.

Median Salary: $70,210
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 33% increase between 2012 and 2022

7. Dermatologist

Who loves their skin? Really, sees no flaws and has no qualms? That’s why dermatologists will always have a job. But it’s not all smoothing wrinkles and removing unsightly moles. Dermatologists treat life-threatening skin cancers, correct disfiguring scars and damage, sooth painful skin conditions that make life miserable, and help patients learn good preventative habits to avoid future suffering.

You’ll have to do a lot of schooling first – a dermatologist is a medical doctor, not just a simple certification. But you’ll have no trouble paying back your student loans, either. Median income is up around $300,000, and in California, where good skin goes on your resume, it can be even higher. Makes you wonder why you’re not a dermatologist already, doesn’t it?

Median Salary: $300,000
Education Level: Doctorate degree
Projected employment growth: 18% increase between 2012 and 2022

8. Chiropractor

Chiropractors diagnose and treat disorders of the spine, along with all the muscles and nerves that go with it. To the layman, that means a lot of stretching and joint-cracking. As a chiropractor, you do a little of everything; a session may require working with computer imaging, doing some therapeutic massage, and stretching patients on equipment that looks kind of medieval. You can’t be afraid to try some unconventional treatments, because every patient’s pain is different.

If you want to go into a medical profession, but you’re kind of a lone wolf, chiropractic might be a good choice. Most chiropractors work in private practice. But that, of course, means you have to wear a lot of hats, so it wouldn’t hurt to have some skills in business and marketing in addition to your medical degree. Take a video course and you can even shoot your own late-night local TV commercial.

Median Salary: $66,000
Education Level: Doctorate degree
Projected employment growth: 16% increase between 2012 and 2022

9. Podiatrist

Frankly, the human foot is a disaster. It just can’t handle all we put it through, with all our running around, on hard floors and sidewalks, in poorly-designed shoes. Not to mention all the weight we keep putting on them. It’s a wonder they hold up as well as they do. But pretty much everyone experiences foot pain or illness at some time in their lives. The Podiatrist is the one who treats that pain and illness, whether it’s as simple as warts and bunions, or as complex as diabetic feet or deformities like club foot.

RELATED: How Long Does It Take to Become a Doctor?

Those Baby Boomers, patron saints of the medical field, just insist on staying active as they age, and that’s a very good thing for podiatrists. Every woman in her 60s whose heel spurs keep her from training for a marathon needs a podiatrist. Every man of a certain age who breaks his ankle rollerblading needs one. So it’s no wonder the profession is growing steadily, or that it pays so well. Anything to keep us on our feet.

Median Salary: $116,000
Education Level: Doctorate degree
Projected employment growth: 23% increase between 2012 and 2022

10. Physician Assistant

If you’ve ever been to an urgent care center, you’ve seen a Physician Assistant. You may not have even realized that he or she was not technically a doctor, because PAs are trained to do virtually everything a doctor does – perform exams, diagnose illnesses, even write prescriptions. They have some limitations; they can only assist in surgery, not perform it, for instance. But for your day-to-day sickness or injuries, a Physician Assistant can do it all.

When you become a PA, you can work in any speciality a doctor can, from neonatal to geriatric. You’ll answer to a medical doctor as part of a team, but the responsibility will be yours. Plus, it’s only a master’s degree, which means you’ll get there much faster and with a lot less student loan debt.

Learn more about the top 25 physician assistant (PA) degree programs 2022.

Median Salary: $90,000
Education Level: Master’s degree
Projected employment growth: 38% increase between 2012 and 2022

11. Speech Pathologist

You may think of a speech pathologist helping people overcome stuttering, or learn to speak without a lisp, but speech pathologists treat a wide range of disorders. They help children born with cleft palate or developmental delays, and adults with strokes or Parkinson’s. Surprisingly, speech pathologists can even help treat problems with infant feeding, such a difficulties sucking or swallowing.

Speech Pathologists often work with as part of a team, such as with an audiologist or educators, and they are commonly employed in schools and senior facilities. This is another profession that requires only a master’s degree, and while it may be difficult, it is also very rewarding to help someone who has lost, or never had, the ability to communicate, break through.

Median Salary: $69,000
Education Level: Master’s degree
Projected employment growth: 19% increase between 2012 and 2022

12. Pharmacist

Ever walk into a pharmacy, see the pharmacist counting out pills, and think, “Must be nice to get paid for counting out pills all day”? Well, you don’t know the half of it. Pharmacist is a highly technical job, and people’s health and well-being, even their lives, are in the pharmacist’s hands. The doctor may diagnose and prescribe a course of treatment, but it’s up to the pharmacist to put that prescription together correctly and inform patients how to use it.

Since the pharmacist profession is so important, a pharmacist must have a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, and it’s nearly as demanding as a medical doctorate. You’ll have to spend some time working in a pharmacy as a student for hands-on experience, and be licensed. The upside is, you won’t have the pressure and stress of working in an emergency room or dealing with blood and fluids. A patient may sneeze on you asking where to find the cold medicine, but otherwise, it’s a clean, safe job with a lot of responsibility and the income to match.

Median Salary: $116,000
Education Level: Doctorate degree
Projected employment growth: 14% increase between 2012 and 2022

13. Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapist is a straightforward job: you give radiation treatments, usually for patients with cancer (though a few other, rare diseases benefit from radiation). That means working with oncologists to develop a treatment plan, using the equipment to administer treatments, interpreting the results, advising patients on treating side effects, and judging when treatments need to stop or continue.

That’s a major responsibility, and a high pay rate, for only an associate’s degree. Think of it – you could be saving lives in only two or three years. If that appeals to you, Radiation Therapist is one of the fastest ways to get there.

Median Salary: $77,000
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 24% increase between 2012 and 2022

14. Nuclear Medicine Technician

This is another medical job that requires only an associate’s degree, has a lot of responsibility, and can be explained pretty simply. A Nuclear Medical Technician gives a patient a radioactive drug, uses imaging equipment to perform a scan, and analyzes the results on a computer to determine where abnormalities show up. That includes tests for disorders of the intestinal tract, heart and blood vessels, and brain.

As a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, you’ll probably work in a hospital, though some work for physicians or in clinics. Nuclear medicine is growing and improving all the time, so there’s no bad time to get in.

Median Salary: $70,000
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 20% increase between 2012 and 2022

15. Audiologist

Many people worry about hearing loss, whether it’s their own golden years, or their children’s yearly ear infections. Just about everyone has had a hearing test at some point in their life, and that’s probably all they know of audiology. Of course the audiologist performs hearing tests, but they also treat tinnitus (ringing in the ears), balance issues caused by inner ear disorders like Ménière’s disease, and all forms of hearing loss. They fit hearing aids and cochlear implants.

Thanks to iPod earbuds and Beats by Dre, audiologists don’t have to worry about running out of patients any time soon. The profession is growing much faster than the average rate, and advances in hearing recovery are coming quickly as technology like cochlear implants become more common.

Median Salary: $69,000
Education Level: Doctorate degree
Projected employment growth: 34% increase between 2012 and 2022

16. Physical Therapist

A child injured in a car accident learns to walk on crutches; a young baseball pitcher tears a ligament and needs recovery; a grandmother has a hip replacement and needs to practice walking on her new part. All of these people need a Physical Therapist.

Physical therapists work with all kinds of people, often in specialties like sports medicine, geriatric, or orthopedics. PTs use a variety of techniques, often in creative ways, to help improve their patients’ mobility, range of motion, and quality of life. It’s a doctorate degree, so it won’t be obtained easily, but physical therapy is a great choice for those who want to work directly with patients and help them see visible improvements.

Median Salary: $79,000
Education Level: Doctorate degree
Projected employment growth: 36% increase between 2012 and 2022

17. Nurse Practitioner

Whether you already have your BSN, or if you’re just getting started in a nursing program and feel ambitious, Nurse Practitioner is worth considering. A Nurse Practitioner is a master’s-level program which goes beyond the basic tasks of nursing. A Nurse Practitioner has many of the same responsibilities of a doctor, including diagnosis and prescribing treatment, though under the supervision of a doctor.

Many NPs work in hospitals, urgent care centers, schools, and nursing homes, and with the added education and responsibility comes a higher pay. Like all medical fields, Nurse Practitioner is a growing job, and there is no shortage of work in sight.

Median Salary: $96,000
Education Level: Master’s degree
Projected employment growth: 31% increase between 2012 and 2022

18. Occupational Therapist

For millions of people, daily tasks, from brushing teeth to cleaning up after meals, are difficult because of some physical or mental disorder. Occupational Therapists are the experts who help patients do the things they want and need to do to make their lives better. For instance, OTs may help autistic children curb repetitive, destructive behaviors by teaching them more constructive habits; they may help elderly people with limited mobility rearrange their household goods to make them more easily accessible; they may help adults with brain damage re-learn basic life skills while working around their injuries.

To become an Occupational Therapist, you will need a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. You may work for hospitals, clinics, group homes, and other settings where people experience physical limitations, writing up treatment plans and sometimes overseeing a team of assistants.

Median Salary: $75,000
Education Level: Master’s degree
Projected employment growth: 29% increase between 2012 and 2022

19. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

One of the most thrilling moments in a new parent’s life is seeing the sonogram image of their baby for the first time. A Sonographer is the person who makes that miracle possible. A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer uses imaging equipment such as ultrasound to check on the development of a fetus, to look for damage to organs such as the heart or intestines, or to find breast cancers. Some Sonographers assist with surgeries.

Some people may be nervous about working with this equipment all the time, but unlike X-rays, sonography uses no radiation and is totally safe for operator and patient. And with only an associate’s degree, sonography is a well-paid profession with a reasonable entry point.

Median Salary: $60,000
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 39% increase between 2012 and 2022

20. Radiologic Technologist

The first time Wilhelm Rontgen saw human bones with x-rays, it must have seemed like magic. Now, all it takes to look through people’s skin is an associate’s degree and certification. So why not consider becoming a Radiologic Technologist? As a technician, you will work in hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, and sometimes even in private practice, if you save up your pennies for your own machine.

The Radiologic Technologist profession also allows for areas of specialization; for instance, you may move on to become an MRI Technologist, a job that usually pays more. You may focus on sports medicine, pediatrics, or mammography as well.

Median Salary: $56,000
Education Level: Associates’s degree
Projected employment growth: 21% increase between 2012 and 2022

For Further Reading: 

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Optometrist?

What Degree Do You Need to Be a Speech Therapist?

Can a PA Prescribe Medication?

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Top 25 Medical Schools

The post Top 20 In-Demand Healthcare Careers appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

In 2021 and beyond, information is the new gold. Virtually any business in operation today runs on information–be it the financial information of daily operations, customer engagement information, or market logistics information. But the information itself is a neutral-value asset. It is the ability to glean valuable insight from information that confers its extreme value. 

Thus the fields of information science, data science, and information technology have exploded in recent years to take prominent positions in the world economy. The industrial revolution changed the world forever, and we are in the midst of a similar revolution now–one fueled by information rather than coal. 

RELATED: The 20 Best Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs Online

Information systems professionals work at the forefront of this revolution. They develop new uses and modalities for existing information systems, and even develop new models of information systems and IT–with the goal being to improve on the system’s ability to collect, process, store, and distribute information. These professionals can work in a wide range of professional settings, however given the high-tech nature of the field, opportunities tend to congregate in tech-hubs and city metropolises. 

The burgeoning field of information systems has only come into focus after many professionals already dove into their careers. As such, many people–both first-time students and professionals looking for a career change–are now looking to build a career in information systems. Thankfully, there are more options to do so than ever before. Many of which are offered online, and have been designed from the ground up to accommodate adult learners and working students, and transfer students. Our researchers have compiled the best online bachelor’s of information systems programs according to metrics that matter most to you: graduation rate, average tuition costs, financial aid, as well as the overall recognition of the program in respected publications such as US News & World Report, The Financial Times, and The Princeton Review. 

1 Arizona State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $8,840

Arizona State University (ASU) continuously distinguishes itself as one of the most innovative institutions in higher education. With more than 530,000 alumni and a measured economic impact of more than $4.6 billion, ASU is quickly becoming the premier online University of the United States. A whopping 79 degree programs have received recognition and accolades from top publications. In short, when considering an online degree, ASU is always a great place to begin your search. 

ASU’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems is built around positioning graduates for success in the job market after graduation. Students are introduced to foundational subjects, while trained in managerial and leadership skills. The program is both affordable and flexible, allowing students to progress through the program while holding down employment. 

To get a better idea of the program’s curriculum, consider these featured courses:

• Introduction to Information Systems
• Business Information System Development I
• Business Information System Development II
• Business Database Systems Development
• Managing Cyber Risks in Enterprise Business Processes
• Web Technologies for the Enterprise
• Mobile Platforms for Business
• Capstone in Information Systems

Learn more about Arizona State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

2 Western Governors University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $2,500

Western Governors University (WGU) has earned its spot on this list by combining a tremendously affordable tuition with an efficient, career-focused curriculum that is meant to position graduates to capitalize on opportunities in the job market. This is an excellent combination for adult learners and working students who want to enter the job market in an efficient manner that won’t break the bank. Another distinguishing element of WGU is that its programs represent the needs of the job market, often combining specialized tracks with certification options to best prepare students for competition in the job market. 

WGU offers a fully online Bachelor of Data Science Analytics / Data Management that delves into the technical aspects of information systems. Students will earn a number of notable professional certifications including CompTIA and CIW. Additionally, students will earn a Data Analyst Nanodegree from Udacity. And what’s more–69% of students complete the entire program in just 24 months. 

Curriculum is based around investigations into the following subjects: 

• General Education
• IT Fundamentals 
• Network and Security
• Scripting and Programming
• Data Management
• Business of IT
• Spreadsheets
• General Science
• Data Science
• Data Analytics
• Technical Communication
• Web Development
• Software
• Computer Science
• Capstone

Learn more about Western Governors University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

3 Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $11,049

Northwestern State is a branch of the University of Louisiana System that offers highly specialized degrees that is meant to represent the current market. The Computer Information Systems at Northwestern State has received countless accolades and awards since its inception in 1999. This makes it simultaneously one of the most well-recognized programs of its kind as well as one of the oldest of its kind. This means that the program has fine tuned its approach through iterations, evidenced by the awards received year after year. 

Specifically students can earn a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS). The program’s curriculum is built around investigations in both the theoretical and practical modalities. The CIS program offers four concentrations paths: Application Development, Networking & Systems Management, Web Development, or Cyber Security.

RELATED: The 20 Best Masters in Cyber Security Online

Students also have the option of earning a number of professional certifications and certifications, depending on their particular career goals and interests. 

The program’s course load prepares students to excel in the following areas: 

• Database
• Networking
• Cloud Computing
• Programming
• Cyber Forensics
• Internet Web Design and Development
• Information Security
• Mobile Application 
• Development and Systems Analysis & Design

Learn more about Northwestern State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

4 Bellevue University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $12,055

Bellevue University has carved out a name for itself by catering to adult learners and working students who value affordable, efficient degree programs that base education programs around real-world industries. As such, its programs often come with various options for specializations and professional certifications. Bellevue’s online programs are helmed by faculty who are willing to go the extra mile to engage students and cultivate professional aspirations. 

Bellevue University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. As the name of the program suggests, the curriculum is framed within the context of computer science and computer-based projects, however foundational subjects within the larger information systems field are explored as well. Students also choose an area of emphasis from the following options: applications development, business intelligence, cybersecurity, or networking. 

Learn more about Bellevue University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

5 Fort Hays State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $12,340

Fort Hays State University (FHU) is quickly becoming one of the world’s premier hubs for online education at the undergraduate level. A distinguishing element of FHU’s approach is that faculty are specially trained to work with online students, and are trained to maximize student engagement and to facilitate a smooth education experience. This is a great selling point for students who might be concerned about the trade-offs involved in choosing online education over traditional on-campus education, as FHU works to ensure that there are little or no trade-offs.

FHU offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science that is completed entirely online through 120 credit hours of coursework. The program offers a number of entry points to the program for transfer students, and second-time undergraduates–making it an excellent option for adult learners. The program delivers a comprehensive curriculum based on computer science and technology as well as foundational studies in: 

• Survey of Computer Science (3 Credit Hours)
• Computer Science I (3 Credit Hours)
• Computer Science II (3 Credit Hours)
• Object-Oriented Programming (3 Credit Hours)
• Foundations of Computing (3 Credit Hours)
• Data Structures (3 Credit Hours)
• Assembly Language (3 Credit Hours)
• Operating Systems (3 Credit Hours)
• Programming Languages (3 Credit Hours)
• Computer Graphics (3 Credit Hours)
• Software Engineering (3 Credit Hours)
• Seminar (3 Credit Hours) 

Learn more about Fort Hays State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

6 American Public University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $9,718

As many universities look to break into the market for online education, American Public University (APU) stands as one of the leaders in the industry. With more than 200 fully online degree programs, APU stands as an industry leader whose success many schools are seeking to replicate. APU’s School of  Science, Technology, Engineering & Math offers online students some of the most flexible course formats and schedules available, offered with cutting-edge digital learning technology. 

Specifically the APU School of  Science, Technology, Engineering & Math offers a fully online Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management. The program offers a combination of a foundational curriculum combined with a robust selection of electives, meant to empower students to customize their route of study. The core curriculum is based on inquiries in these courses: 

• Principles of E Business 3 credits
• Fundamentals of Programming 3 credits
• Database Concepts 3 credits
• Management Information Systems 3 credits
• Networking Concepts 3 credits
• IT Security: Risk Management 3 credits
• Introduction to Computer Science 3 credits
• Application Software Integration 3 credits
• Law, Privacy, and Digital Data 3 credits
• Information Technology Project Management 3 credits
• Project Management Using MS Project 3 credits
• Virtual Management 3 credits
• Ethics in Information Technology 3 credits
• Introduction to Web Analytics 3 credits
• Web eCommerce Development 3 credits

Learn more about American Public University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

7 Mercy College

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $19,941

Mercy College offers more than 40 fully online degree programs, helmed by 231 full-time faculty who are meant to enable small class sizes where online students can each receive the care and attention needed to facilitate a smooth education process. Students come from all around the world, more than 51 countries to be specific. 

Mercy College offers a fully online Computer Information Systems program. The program’s curriculum distinguishes itself through providing subjects in the context of business inquiries and investigations. This program is an ideal option for students who want to delve into the technical side of computer information systems framed in the context of business and industry. 

Graduates of the program go on to find success in positions like the following:

• Programmer 
• Web administrator 
• Helpdesk specialist 
• Systems analyst 
• Database administrator 
• Network engineer

Learn more about Mercy College’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

8 Indiana University Purdue University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $10,987

The Indiana University Purdue University (IUPU) Purdue School of Engineering & Technology offers a number of top-tier technology and engineering degrees. A distinguishing factor of the School’s mission is that it looks to position students to capitalize on the increasingly globalized technology and engineering markets. Particularly in the case of technology, working at the forefront of the industry often requires collaboration with teams around the world. 

Students at the Purdue School of Engineering & Technology have one of two options for earning their undergraduate degree in Computer and Information Technology. Students can either enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Technology, or they can enroll in a five year program BS / MS in Computer and Information Technology. Students in the Bachelor of Science program can also choose from a number of specialization options: 

• Networking Systems
• Information Security
• Web Development
• Data Management

Learn more about Indiana Purdue University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

9 LeTourneau University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $22,105

The LeTourneau University College of Arts and Sciences offers a combination of on-campus and online degree programs. While the tuition costs of these programs are higher than others on this list, its programs are recognized for top-tier faculty, academic rigor, and the impressive career-outcomes of graduates. 

Students at LeTourneau University have the choice of one of two program paths: either a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, or a on-campus program–Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. The CIS program is managed by faculty who have worked at the absolute cutting-edge of their careers (fullbright scholars and Fortune 500 professionals). One distinguishing element of this program is that the curriculum is framed within the context of a Christian world-view, which represents a rare combination of a top-tier program with religious morality. 

Learn more about LeTourneau University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

10 Southeast Missouri State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $13,113

Southeast Missouri State University represents a unique combination of a large University with a rich history dating back to 1873 that has positioned itself to expand into new and modern technology. Today, students can earn a variety of degrees entirely online where students work closely with faculty and advisors to develop a plan of study that matches a student’s individual interests and career goals. This is ideal for students who wish to earn a degree online while holding down a job or while managing family responsibilities. 

Students can earn a Bachelor’s of Computer Science that can be completed entirely online. The department offering the degree boasts a 100% rate of employment or enrollment in graduate school among the graduates of the program. Students also have the choice of enrolling in a specialized track in one of the following concentrations: cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and business administration.

Learn more about Southeast Missouri State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

11 Florida Institute of Technology

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $8,651

Florida Institute of Technology has specialized in offering degree programs specifically designed for working students and adult learners. These programs are efficient, flexible, and perhaps most importantly, affordable. The university has been recognized as one of the best universities in the nation by US News and World Report. And moreover, 90% of full-time faculty hold a doctorate or the highest degree relevant to their field, meaning that students are learning from some of the best of the best. 

Students can earn a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems that is in alignment with the Association for Computing Machinery curriculum guidelines. The program is designed to be flexible, so that students can progress through the program while maintaining employment. The program is based around studies in the following areas: network theory, programming, system administration and database management systems. 

Learn more about Florida Institute of Technology’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

12 Post University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $9,857

Post University sports a robust history that stretches all the way back to the 1890s. Post University has demonstrated extensive work in reaching out to adult learners, and has recently expanded into online education. Today, a number of its most successful degree programs now have online variants. Faculty and advisors work closely with each online student to ensure that they are getting the most out of their online programs. 

Post offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems that is designed to prepare students for a future in careers such as the following: systems analyst, systems programmer, database analyst, network technician, or technology manager. Students can further customize their experience of the program by choosing from one of the following four concentrations: 

• General Computer Information Systems
• Cybersecurity
• Networking
• Software Development

Learn more about Post University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

13 Austin Peay State University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $13,018

Austin Peay State University prides itself on offering student-centric programs that can meet each student on their terms. As such, many of its degree programs offer generous transfer policies and financial aid packages to accommodate first-time students, second-time students, transfer students, and military students. Particularly in the case of the computer information systems, faculty hold over 30 years of experience and hold published works in their respective area of specialization.

Specifically students can earn a Bachelor’s of Computer Science and Information Technology that can be completed entirely online. Students of the program work closely with faculty and advisors to ensure learning objectives are being met and exceeded. Despite being an online program, students will work together in collaborative projects as well as through peer-to-peer tutoring programs. 

Learn more about Austin Peay State University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

14 Champlain College–Champlain College Online

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $35,549

Champlain College is a unique example of a College that really does invest in students’ success. Undergraduates students will benefit from the Fast Start Formula Career Course, which is designed from the ground up to position students for success after graduation. The Fast Start course trains students in vital skills that are often missed in degree programs: how to make the most out of interviews, how to tailor resumes, and overall–how to improve one’s standing in the job market. 

Students can earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems that can be completed entirely online. Inline with the College’s larger mission, the program constantly updates its curriculum and course schedules to reflect the ever-changing demands of the job market. But specifically, graduates of the program will be prepared to compete for top-positions in the following areas: 

• Application Developer
• Business Systems Analyst
• IT Systems Manager
• Network Administrator
• Programmer Analyst
• Software Developer
• Systems Analyst
• Systems Engineer

Learn more about Champlain College’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

15 Saint Leo University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $19,545

Saint Leo University demonstrates a unique combination of a forward-facing University that infuses its degree programs with the tenets of the Jesuit mission. Regardless of the individual program chosen, students learn how to develop themselves professionally, academically, and spiritually. Beyond this, each degree program frames its curriculum in terms of community service and societal impact. Saint Leo will be an ideal option for students who want to expand their focus beyond simple coursework to larger problems impacting communities large and small. 

Saint Leo University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. Students can enroll in additional coursework in order to earn a degree emphasis in data analytics or cybersecurity. The program’s curriculum is designed to position students to find success in one of the following areas: web developer, computer network architect, cybersecurity analyst, or information assurance engineer.

Learn more about Saint Leo University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

16 College of St. Scholastica

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $23,232

College of St. Scholastica offers a number of degree programs that combine a Catholic Bendectine value-set with forward-facing, career-focused degree programs. Students who are interested in infusing their studies with a religious moral structure will likely find these programs to be a perfect fit. The College of St. Scholastica is consistently recognized for offering some of the nation’s best undergraduate degree programs. 

The College offers both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS) which is completed through 128 credits over 2 to 3 years. Students can earn one of the following concentrations: business analysis, cyber security, data analytics, health informatics or software development. Moreover, the program distinguishes itself by offering a build-your-own concentration option for students who want to pursue a niche area of study.

Learn more about College of St. Scholastica University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

17 Central Washington University

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $15,175

Central Washington University (CWU) positions both itself and its students to excel in a world that becomes increasingly reliant on global business and industry. At CWU, students benefit from a robust network of more than 30 colleges and universities around the world. As such, CWU has earned numerous accolades for programs that benefit from an international network, as well as for programs that are built upon the tech industry. 

CWU offers a unique degree program, specifically a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Administrative Management (BS-ITAM). Students can further tailor the degree program to match interests by pursuing one of three degree specializations: Administrative Management (ADMG), Cybersecurity, or Retail Management and Technology (RMT).

Learn more about Central Washington University’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

18 Columbia College

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $24,148

Columbia College looks to provide a balanced approach in providing education programs for both traditional and nontraditional students. The focus of the college is providing students with innovative degree programs that reflect the realities of the job market, packaged in a liberal arts model of study. As such, programs are meant to facilitate students’ creativity, curiosity, and sense of ethics.

Columbia College offers a fully online Computer Information Systems Major that prepares students for going on to successful careers or a graduate program. The program introduces students to the core subjects and theories of computer technology and information systems. 

Learn more about Columbia College’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

19 University of Maryland Global Campus

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $13,672

The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is quickly becoming a premier hub for various online degree programs. UMGC offers programs that have been nationally recognized for affordability and academic value, however the most notable accolade is that of having a high ROI–that is the return on investment in one’s career as compared to what one invests in their degree. 

UMGC offers a fully online Bachelor of Science Information Systems Management which is designed to position graduates to take on positions of leadership and management after graduation. Core courses within the curriculum are as follows: 

• Information Systems in Organizations 
• Foundations of Information Systems Management 
• Ethics in Information Technology 
• Cybersecurity for Leaders and Managers
• Software and Hardware Infrastructure Concepts
• Enterprise Architecture
• Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
• Telecommunications in Information Systems
• Information Systems Project Management
• Systems Analysis and Design
• Trends and Practical Applications in Information Systems Management

Learn more about University of Maryland Global Campus’ Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

20 Colorado State University Global

Average Cost of Tuition after Aid: $12,556

Colorado State University Global (CSUG) offers a robust selection of industry-aware degree programs that are designed for both adult learners and working students who need affordable programs that do not waste students’ time or money. Its online degree programs are designed with flexibility and comfort in mind–students can access coursework anytime, anywhere and will have many resources to help them make the most of their education. 

CSUG offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics. This program is one of few that combines the curriculum of information systems management with business analytics. This program is ideal for students who want to lean into the business-side of the information systems industry. 

Learn more about Colorado State University Global’s Online Bachelor’s of Information Systems

The post The 20 Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees In Information Systems appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Employment opportunities can vary from state to state in most occupations. As well, the job growth rate or change varies by occupation. One of the best sources of data is the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to their website, the BLS of the U.S. Department of Labor is the principal Federal agency responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. This agency has been providing economic information since 1884.

The BLS reports on the occupation in this field for the title of Emergency Management Director. They report that the job outlook for 2014-2024 is expected to change 6% or 700 jobs out of a total employment number of 10,500 as of 2014. That percentage is an average growth/change rate. Since 700 jobs sound relatively small, where are there likely to be more jobs available? Geographically, the state of California is tops with 900 employed as emergency management directors. New York follows with 600, Texas with 480, Virginia 440, and Pennsylvania employing 430. These are the top five spots for total employees in this particular profession.

When you look at the statistics highest number employed by metropolitan area, you see an entirely different employment market. California has one city in the top ten metro areas for EM directors per the BLS, at slot number three. This is San Francisco-Redwood City area, which employs 220 directors; the number one is the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria area with 370 employed or .15 per 1,000 jobs. This data are in accord with the Data USA statistics. This firm also reports the second highest number of directors is employed in the District of Columbia. Their number one location for total numbers is Wilkes-Barre & Hazelton cities, Pennsylvania. Through advanced data analytics and visualization, Data USA accumulates their information reports occupations, from teachers to welders to web developers, and numerous industries.

We touched on the number of jobs per 1,000 or concentration in the previous paragraph. Analyzing the concentration of jobs, the BLS has Idaho Falls, Idaho first with 0.54 per 1,000, though there was a paltry 30 employed as EM directors in May 2016. In contrast, Data USA reports a “relatively high concentration of EM directors” in Olympia, Washington, and District of Columbia. No further data are provided.

Another way to look at job prospects is by researching employment sites such as indeed.com. Under the title of Emergency Management Specialist, there are 1,356 jobs listed as of September 2017. Not all of these are applicable to EM as there are jobs posted unrelated to the described position, for example, emergency veterinarian. The state of Washington has 2,902 jobs listed under the title of emergency management. This demonstrates that there are plenty of job opportunities across the country.

If money is at or near the top of your shopping list, then California is the place to be. You will probably encounter a higher cost of living, but from a median wage perspective, the top five cities are this state. The highest average annual salary is in San Francisco and environs at $136,550 per the BLS as of May 2016. The number ten slot is another high cost of living city-Seattle at $101,840 median wage.

Job searching can be an unnerving task; however, there are scores of employment sites, as we illustrated in a prior paragraph. Therefore, a review of actual job postings should proffer the best view of where the jobs are available by industry and by location.

The post Best Job Prospects with an Emergency Management Degree appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

“What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today, when human contacts are so quick. Fashion is instant language.”

—Miuccia Prada

If you care about clothes, you know that style is a form of self-expression. Our clothing and accessories show the world how we see ourselves and how we want to be seen by others. From designers crafting individual garments to stylists creating ensembles from multiple pieces, thousands of creative ideas and design choices are at play in every outfit. Style lovers know that, at its best, fashion really is wearable art.

Fashion isn’t just about creativity- it’s also big business. There are over 7.5 billion people alive today, and every one of them needs clothing. According to the Fashion United, the entire fashion industry is worth a combined 385.7 billion dollars. That means jobs in manufacturing, supply chain management, global sales, and product development. And in the trend-driven world of fashion, there’s room for lots of stimulating work in marketing, where coming up with innovative brand campaigns and channels can be a creative job in and of itself.

Whether you’re interested in fashion business or fashion design, a career in fashion can give you the opportunity to be part of a vibrant, stimulating, ever-changing, creative industry. A fashion degree can give you the tools you’ll need for success in this highly competitive field. If you’re curious about the ins and outs of fashion degrees and fashion careers, the following guide to What Can I Do with a Fashion Degree? can help you get started.

Jump To:

• What is Fashion?
• How is Fashion Design Different from Fashion Marketing?
• What Degrees in Fashion are There?
• What is Fashion?
• What Will I Learn with a Fashion Degree?
• What Can I do with an Associate’s in Fashion?
• What Can I do with a BFA in Fashion?
• What Can I do with a BA in Fashion?
• What Can I do with a BS in Fashion?
• What Can I do with a Master’s in Fashion?
• What Jobs Can I Get with a Degree in Fashion?
• Is a Degree in Fashion Right for Me?

What is Fashion?

From the time early man began wearing animal skins to keep out the cold, mankind has been prioritizing dressing ourselves. And it didn’t take long for clothing to evolve into more than a way to keep warm. The way people dress reveals socioeconomic status, occupation, occasion, persona, and role. Fashion is the business of making, buying, and selling clothes, and it’s a multibillion-dollar industry with global reach that employs millions of workers.

Everyone needs clothing, undergarments, shoes, hats, and bags of some sort, and most of us regularly purchase other items that fall under the apparel industry, like jewelry, neckties, wallets, bathing suits, gloves, and so on. Some people draw a distinction between “apparel” and “fashion.” In this view, fashion refers to runway, couture, and designer garments, and apparel means “mass fashion,” or the more affordable and mass-produced clothing worn by most. But the line between the two has become increasingly blurred since the 1960s-70s, and the term “fashion” is now used broadly to refer apparel in general.

Clothing is one of the biggest ways people spend their personal income, after things like food and healthcare. It’s a major driver in the manufacturing sector, but is rather unique compared to other consumer goods, like toys or electronics.
The fashion industry is distinguished by short product life cycles, variable consumer demand, complex international supply chains, and a broad range of product types and options. Professionals in the fashion industry are tasked with handling global supply chains and distribution networks, adapting quickly to changing trends and levels of demand, and creating innovative products.

How is Fashion Design Different from Fashion Marketing?

In the world of fashion, garments and accessories must be conceived, manufactured, and brought to market. Fashion design is the process of thinking up, drawing out, and prototyping garments and accessories. It requires creativity, awareness of fashion history and current trends, artistic skills, and a deep knowledge of the properties of different materials. Fashion designers must create clothing and accessories that are attractive, functional, and fit the buyer’s budget. They must also be highly aware of their brand’s distinctive look and design products that are in step with the brand’s look.

Fashion marketing is the process of selling clothing and accessories to consumers. It is the fashion industry’s business side, and includes everything from managing the look of a brand, to packaging, advertising, events, product placement, and retailing. Fashion merchandisers must determine what consumers want, and deliver products to fit those desires. Often, fashion marketers must create a demand by convincing consumers that they need a new and better version of a product they may already own, such as more comfortable yoga pants, a watch that shows more prestige, or sneakers that are more on-trend. (Learn more about how much you can make with a degree in digital marketing.)

What Degrees in Fashion are There?

If you’re interested in the industry, you can find degrees in fashion at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s level. An associate’s degree is the minimum usually required to get your foot in the door, while a master’s can position you for high-level fashion management and teaching roles. A bachelor’s in fashion is the most popular fashion degree overall, and is preferred by most employers, as it provides graduates with a well-rounded skill set and strong portfolio of demonstrated abilities. Bachelor’s degrees in fashion are often offered as Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, or Bachelor of Science degrees, depending on their area of focus, which may skew more towards design or more towards the business side of the industry.

In addition to the fashion major, many schools offer specializations as concentrations or additional minors. Fashion design majors may want to pursue a concentration such as menswear, textiles, or jewelry design. Fashion business majors may wish to consider a concentration such as e-commerce, social media marketing, or brand management.

What Classes Will I take for a Degree in Fashion?

A fashion degree is a professional degree. You’ll be learning the skills needed for a particular trade- fashion- with the goal of landing a job in the industry. That means, unless you’re enrolled in a BA program that incorporates the humanities, you’ll be heavily focused on acquiring workplace skills.

Some of the classes you can expect in a fashion degree program include:

• Color Theory
• Life Drawing
• Computer Assisted Design
• Visual Culture
• Fashion History
• Fashion Studio
• Textile Science
• Portfolio Development
• Business of Fashion
• Fashion market research
• Brands and Identity
• Trend analysis and forecasting
• Strategic marketing and promotion
• Visual merchandising
• E-commerce

An internship will play an important part in your education and allow you to gain real-world experience and exposure. Your school may offer opportunities to showcase your work, practice your skills, and network, through resources like galleries, studios, labs, clubs, and symposiums. Breaking into and succeeding in the world of fashion involves plenty of hustle, so students should take advantage of opportunities to learn how to present themselves and promote their work professionally.

What Will I Learn with a Fashion Degree?

The majority of fashion design degree programs are taught by accomplished professionals from the fashion industry, who have real-world knowledge and up-to-date information on how the world of fashion works. In a well-balanced program, you’ll have instructors with different areas of real-world expertise, such as marketing, merchandising, and design. The best fashion schools also bring in guest lecturers from fashion design houses and popular brands.

In a fashion degree program, you’ll be developing a practical set of focused skills, along with a broad understanding of the industry as a context for your professional niche. After all, you can’t be a great menswear pattern maker without understanding how different textiles are crafted, or excel in footwear marketing without understanding the history of modern women’s fashion. Above all, hands-on skills count, and your fashion degree program will make sure you’ve demonstrated your expertise in a portfolio or set of real-world projects.

Of course, the particular skills you gain will depend on the type of degree you’re seeking, as well as what specialization, if any, you’ve selected. But, broadly speaking, you can expect to learn the following skills in a fashion degree program:

Design Skills:

• fashion, textile, and business terminology
• computer based design and illustration
• pattern design
• creating a signature look

Business Skills:

• marketing of accessories and garments
• fashion brand development
• runway show production and promotion
• anticipating consumer behavior and trends
• working with supply chains
• international fashion markets

It’s important to note that the best fashion degrees include some of each skill domain in their curriculum. A good fashion design degree will prepare designers to understand things like target markets, and a good fashion marketing program will teach students about the aesthetics and design behind fashion products.

What Can I do with an Associate’s in Fashion?

The most important assets in the fashion world are ability, ambition, and experience, not degree level. That’s not to say that getting an in-depth education won’t help your career prospects or open doors! But it’s also possible to get your foot in the door with an associate’s degree in fashion and work your way up in the fashion world. This two-year undergraduate degree will provide you with a knowledge of the basics of the fashion world, including fashion industry fundamentals, design principles, illustration, and brand awareness. With an associate’s in fashion, you’ll be qualified for jobs like assistant fashion designer, assistant buyer, and sales assistant.

Alternatively, you may want to earn an associate’s in fashion as a stepping stone on the path towards a bachelor’s in fashion. With this two-year degree under your belt, you can earn your bachelor’s by completing the additional coursework, which typically takes two additional years on a full-time basis. Many students earn associate’s degrees and then take classes part-time for 3-5 years in order to complete their bachelor’s degree.

What Can I do with a BFA in Fashion?

A BFA in fashion is a great fit for creative professionals with an eye for style and design. A Bachelor of Fine Arts, of BFA, is a technical degree that focuses on the design of garments, textiles, and accessories. In a fashion BFA program, students learn the fundamentals of designing, including researching, illustrating, designing, developing, and crafting patterns and products.

Like all bachelor’s degrees, a BFA in fashion design typically takes four years to earn on a full-time basis. Your classes will involve many projects, especially projects based on real-world problems. Your best projects will be collected into a final portfolio or collection, which will likely be formally reviewed by a panel of professors, and industry professionals. You can use your portfolio to show potential employers your skills and signature style. With a BFA in fashion, you’ll be qualified for jobs like fashion designer, textile designer, or pattern maker.

What Can I do with a BA Fashion?

Some schools offer a Bachelor of Arts, or BA, in fashion in place of (or in addition to) a BFA in fashion. A BA in fashion incorporates both fashion design classes and liberal arts classes, such as English, history, and science. In a Fashion BA program, you’ll cover many of the same class topics as in a BFA program, such as illustration and textile design. But in place of some of the technical courses, such as human figure drawing and computer-assisted design, you’ll be taking general education classes.

A BA in Fashion is a good choice for those who want a broader skill set. General education requirements will equip you with knowledge about the world and critical thinking skills that can be applied in a variety of settings, including well-paying management positions. A BA can also be more flexible than a technical degree, allowing you to move into another part of the fashion world (or another industry) if you decide to do so. Jobs associated with a fashion BA include textile designer, fashion designer, and retail manager.

What Can I do with a BS in Fashion?

Fashion is a business, and degrees in the business side of fashion can be lucrative and interesting. A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in fashion tends to focus on marketing or merchandising, and provide a strong training in the business of all things fashion. Students in such a program learn all about retail operations, fashion buying, trend forecasting, product promotion, merchandising for apparel, and brand development.

This type of degree program combines the qualitative realm of style and influence with the quantitative realm of budgets and markets. People with an intuitive appreciation of style as well as a head for the nitty-gritty of business are a great fit for a BS in fashion marketing and management. With a BS in fashion marketing and management, you’ll be qualified for jobs like e-commerce specialist, brand manager, PR officer, and fashion marketing manager.

What Can I do with a Master’s in Fashion?

A master’s in fashion is not required to get a job in the field, and it’s a far less popular degree option. In fact, just 4% of pekoe with a bachelor’s in fashion go on to earn a master’s in fashion design or fashion marketing and management. If you do decide to pursue a master’s in fashion, you’ll be among a select few who have this level of training. Getting a master’s degree can give you the skills needed to launch your own line of clothing, or help open up a path to a leadership position in fashion.

Alexander McQueen had a master’s in fashion, while other famous designers, such as Vivienne Westwood, were able to succeed without one. If you have high ambitions, an advanced degree in fashion is worth considering. The BLS reports that fashion designers in the top 10% of the field earn $155,470 per year, and a master’s can help you develop the skills to move into a top position. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re interested in teaching fashion at a college. This two-year degree program will deepen your understanding of fashion, allow you to specialize more, and provide the opportunity to establish powerful industry connections.

For those interested in fashion management and marketing, an MBA with an emphasis on fashion may be another great choice. An MBA in fashion will have a stronger focus on the business side of the industry, and go more deeply into topics like supply chain management and business strategy. MBAs are associated with lucrative salaries, and this heavily business-focused degree will qualify you for a top position such as chief marketing officer or fashion channel director.

What Jobs Can I Get with a Degree in Fashion?

Your fashion degree level and area of specialty will play a big role in determining what type of jobs with a fashion degree you’ll qualify for. As noted above, a BS or MBA in fashion management will position you for a role on the business side of the industry, while a BFA in fashion design will put you in the running for creative jobs.

Some of the most common jobs associated with a degree in fashion are:

• fashion design
• fashion journalism
• fashion buyer
• product manager
• pattern maker
• stylist
• retail manager
• textile designer
• visual merchandiser
• brand manager
• marketing specialist
• blogger or influencer

As Business of Fashion has noted, the number of people with fashion degrees is greater than the number of job openings, meaning landing a position in fashion can be a challenge. Students considering a fashion degree should be prepared for stiff competition in the job market. Relocating to a major city like Los Angeles or New York City can help with job prospects, as most fashion companies are located in major cities such as these.

Your salary will, of course, depend on your job title and area of expertise. In general, creative jobs pay less than business jobs, and the fashion industry is no exception. $88,037 is the average salary for fashion merchandising, while $72,720 is the average salary for fashion design. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest paid jobs in fashion were those in wholesale or manufacturing businesses or apparel companies. Jobs in bespoke studios, boutiques, and runway fashion, on the other hand, tend to pay out lower salaries but offer attractive career perks like glamorous work, travel, or greater independence.

Is a Degree in Fashion Right for Me?

Just because you love fashion doesn’t mean you should pursue a fashion degree. Even if the class titles get you excited, and you can see yourself doing well in a fashion degree program, you’ll want to consider your entire professional future before deciding that this is the path you want to pursue.

To succeed in the fast-paced and competitive world of fashion, you’ll need to be savvy, creative, flexible, and ambitious. This holds true whether you’re involved in the creative side or the business side of the fashion industry. You’ll also have to have a bit of hustle- the ability to promote yourself, leverage opportunities, and make connections. As a designer, you’ll need raw talent along with fully-developed and up-to-date skills. As a marketing or management professional, you’ll need business acumen and the ability to work with teams of people across different settings.

Some of the drawbacks of a career in fashion are the stiff competition, fast pace, and demanding work. On the other hand, a job in fashion can be incredibly rewarding, with fresh trends to work with, new ideas and challenges, and the opportunity to get creative. If you thrive on change and are willing to work hard, a fashion degree could be the right fit for you.

Further Reading:

• What Degree Do I Need to Become a Fashion Designer?
• What Degree Do Marketing Managers Have?
• 50 Best Online Degrees for 2019
• 25 Fastest Online Associate’s Degrees
• 23 Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
• 20 Best Degree Programs for Undergraduates
• Top 50 Affordable Online MBA Degree Programs for 2019

The post What Can I Do With a Fashion Degree? appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

1. Kentucky Community and Technical College System

Kentucky community and technical college system (KCTCS) entails 16 colleges with more than 70 campuses. This system was established as a section of the postsecondary improvement Act of 1997. The idea was to form a new higher learning institution to replace the Kentucky Department of Education’s technical schools and the University of Kentucky’s Community College System. KCTCS system headquarters found in Versailles, Kentucky. Generally, the system offers programs like associate degrees, pre-bachelor education to shift to a public four-year university, continuing and developmental education, and adult education. The system also has personalized training for industry and business, and distance learning. 

KCTCS offers an online certificate program in Hospitality Management. Generally, the program prepares learners for job positions, directing particular operations and overall hospitality management elements. Some of the topics studied are cost and control, small business management, maintenance management and housekeeping, human resource management, and safety and sanitation. Students are required to designate KCTCS college as their Home College to join the program. On the other hand, the KCTCS Home College needs to have program approval to reward the credential. In general, various KCTCS colleges offer online courses, and Home College recognizes all system-wide online classes delivered by the colleges.  

Program Website

2. Colorado Mountain College

Colorado Mountain College (CMC) is a public institution of higher learning with several campuses in Colorado. The College was founded in 1965 and is located in Glenwood Springs in Colorado. It is typically a small institution with an admission of about 1700 undergraduate students. As such, it is famous for small class sizes, hands-on experience, and personalized attention. In general, CMC offers over 120 bachelor’s degrees, certificates, and associate degrees.  Also, it provides ESL and GED classes, non-credit classes, continuing education, and Workshops to the Colorado community. The Institution’s acceptance rate is 100%. Some of the main programs offered are Hospitality and Tourism Management, Emergency Medical Technician, and Liberal Arts and Humanity.  

CMC provides an online Certificate of Occupational Proficiency in Hospitality operations. The program is founded on the Resort Management degree program that prepares students for successful positions in the resort industry. In general, students must complete eight courses and have work experience for academic credit. Some of the courses taught are cost control, restaurant and hotel accounting, front office procedures, hotel sales and marketing, and food and beverage management. For that reason, learners who complete this program have the skills required for an entry-level supervisory job in the hospitality industry. Credits gained for this certificate can be applied via CMC toward a two-year Associate of Applied in Resort Management course. 

Program Website

3. Cayuga County Community College

Cayuga County Community College is a public college situated in Auburn, New York. The institution is a section of the SUNY system and was founded in 1953 as Auburn Community College. It provides associate degrees and currently hosts the University Center offers bachelor’s degrees from different colleges. Thus, learners can earn certificates and degrees in fifteen distinct fields. Some of the programs offered are Management, General Studies and Humanities, Marketing, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Related Support Services, and Health Professions and Related Programs. In general, there are about 3775 students’ admissions on part—time and full-time programs. The Institution employs a semester-based academic schedule.

The county college offers an online Event Management Certificate that prepares undergraduates to venture into event planning firms or organizations requiring experts in organizing events. Graduates can also seek careers in event corporations, conference centers, hotels, non-profit corporations, catering companies, and entrepreneurs in event planning. Thus, students acquire the skills and knowledge required to do several things. For example, graduates can effectively organize, plan, and direct conferences, business meetings, conventions, fundraisers, and other special events. Also, they can communicate skillfully in verbal and written settings by incorporating technological tools. Lastly, they learn to apply management principles like multi-tasking and time management when planning events. 

Program Website

4. Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University (CSU) is a for-profit private institution of higher learning in Orange Beach, Alabama. Precisely, CSU was established in 1993 and launched its first degree programs in Occupational Safety and Environment Engineering in 1994. Several other programs were developed in 1996, such as Criminal Justice Administration, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Health Administration, and Computer Science. The university is accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC). CSU has three colleges that offer 26 degrees at bachelor’s associate and Master’s level and 21 online certificate programs. Moreover, the institution provides a Doctor of Business Administration.  

CSU has an online undergraduate certificate in Hospitality and Management. The program was developed to offer learners a foundational knowledge of the tourism industry. Once students complete the program, they can observe best practices to promote the tourism and hospitality industry trends. In general, students require an official high school transcript to join the course. The program entails a minimum of 12 semester hours to complete and is completely offered online. 

Program Website

5. Chemeketa Community College

Chemeketa Community College is a public institution located in Salem, Oregon.  It a small college with an admission of about 4300 undergraduate students. Chemeketa college has a campus in McMinnville and education centers in Brooks, Woodburn, and Dallas. Besides the education centers and campus, the institution’s center to business and industry in Downtown Salem hosts the small business development center while offering programs, and classes benefiting area businesses. The College provides Associate of Applied Science certificates and degrees in more than 90 professional-technical courses. To be precise, the main programs are Chemeketa Community College, Chemeketa Community College, and Liberal Arts and Humanities. The Northwest Commission also accredits it on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Chemeketa Community College virtually offers a Certificate in Event management. To be precise, the College has an online program that prepares learners for direct entry in event and meeting planning for large hotels and restaurants, local attractions, convention centers, event management firms, and private catering. Upon graduation, students acquire the certificate and possess several skills and knowledge required in the hospitality industry. For instance, they can promote and organize a special meeting or event by incorporating suitable industry techniques. They can also design marketing techniques unique to the tourism and hospitality field. Lastly, they can generate a service-profit linkage to provide a competitive customer experience in various cultural groups. 

Program Website

6. Cayuga County Community College 

Cayuga County Community College is a public college situated in Auburn, New York. The institution is a section of the SUNY system and was founded in 1953 as Auburn Community College. It provides associate degrees and currently hosts the University Center offers bachelor’s degrees from different colleges. Thus, learners can earn certificates and degrees in fifteen distinct fields. Some of the programs offered are Management, General Studies and Humanities, Marketing, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Related Support Services, and Health Professions and Related Programs. In general, there are about 3775 students’ admissions on part—time and full-time programs. The Institution employs a semester-based academic schedule.

The College has an online Certificate Program in Tourism Management that prepares undergraduates to seek careers in Tourism bureaus, tourism promotion agencies, tour companies, visitor centers, inns, hotels, and cruise lines. Students possess the skills and knowledge needed in different aspects. For example, they direct marketing for tourism activity applying traditional techniques and social media methods. Also, they apply and demonstrate a comprehension of the tourism concepts, tourism industry different stakeholders in Tourism, and the roles of tourism services. The students also learn to communicate effectively and professionally in written and verbal settings using office productivity tools and technology. The school is typically approved by Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) to offer the program.

Program Website

7. Chemeketa Community College

Chemeketa Community College is a public institution located in Salem, Oregon.  It a small college with an admission of about 4300 undergraduate students.  Chemeketa college has a campus in McMinnville and education centers in Brooks, Woodburn, and Dallas. Besides the education centers and campus, the institution’s center to business and industry in Downtown Salem hosts the small business development center while offering programs and classes benefiting area businesses. The college provides Associate of Applied Science certificates and degrees in more than 90 professional-technical courses. To be precise, the main programs are Chemeketa Community College, Chemeketa Community College, and Liberal Arts and Humanities. The Northwest Commission also accredits the college on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

The college provides an online certificate program in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Generally, the program is developed to prepare students for an entry-level management career within the hospitality industry. For example, they seek direct employment in event and meeting planning in large hotels, local attractions, event management companies, and convention centers. Students must accomplish 92 credit hours plus hospitality management courses and general studies requirements to obtain the certificate. Some of the main courses in the program are catering operations, special events planning, resort management, customer service management, and computer reservation systems. Also, learners can undertake a practicum in hospitality or tourism management.  

Program Website

8. Chemeketa Community College

Chemeketa Community College is a public institution located in Salem, Oregon.  It a small college with an admission of about 4300 undergraduate students.  Chemeketa college has a campus in McMinnville and education centers in Brooks, Woodburn, and Dallas. Besides the education centers and campus, the institution’s center to business and industry in Downtown Salem hosts the small business development center while offering programs and classes benefiting area businesses. The college provides Associate of Applied Science certificates and degrees in more than 90 professional-technical courses. To be precise, the main programs are Chemeketa Community College, Chemeketa Community College, and Liberal Arts and Humanities. The Northwest Commission also accredits the college on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

The institution has an online certificate program in Lodging Management. The program mainly prepares undergraduates for direct occupation in lodging supervision in inns, motels, hotels, resorts, and B&Bs. The program also concentrates on several elements of lodging management. For example, it focuses on the past and current setting of the tourism and hospitality industry. Also, students learn to supervise guest service employees and the market segmentation of lodging visitors. The program also emphasizes industry-unique digital technologies incorporated to entice and engage potential consumers while retaining old ones. Lastly, the course concentrates on event and meeting services offered in lodging establishments.

Program Website 

9. Chemeketa Community College

Chemeketa Community College is a public institution located in Salem, Oregon.  It a small college with an admission of about 4300 undergraduate students.  Chemeketa college has a campus in McMinnville and education centers in Brooks, Woodburn, and Dallas. Besides the education centers and campus, the institution’s center to business and industry in Downtown Salem hosts the small business development center while offering programs and classes benefiting area businesses. The college provides Associate of Applied Science certificates and degrees in more than 90 professional-technical courses. To be precise, the main programs are Chemeketa Community College, Chemeketa Community College, and Liberal Arts and Humanities. The Northwest Commission also accredits the college on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). 

Chemeketa college issues a virtual Tourism & Travel Management Certificate program to prepare scholars for travel-related jobs. With the certificate, graduates can work with tour operations, airlines, travel agencies, resorts, and hotel front desks. Some of the courses covered are Customer Service Management, Special Event Planning, Computer Reservation Systems, and Travel Destination Geography. The program is done entirely online, and students may apply for the AAS in Hospitality and Tourism. one main requirement to join the program is an official high school GED score/ transcript. 

Program Website

10. Yavapai College

Yavapai College is a public higher learning institution located in Prescott, Arizona.  The college has a total admission of about 7314 and incorporates a semester-based calendar. In the Academic year 2010-2011, the institution issued 99 certificates, transfer options, and the degree to students in 73 distinct programs. Additionally, Yavapai college provides several learning alternatives to suit the circumstances and lifestyles of its learners. Some of these alternatives are college for children, internet courses, telecourses, high school equivalency programs, and senior programs.  Regarding Associate degrees, the college offers seven which are Associate of General Studies Degree Program, Associate of Arts in Elementary Education, Associate of Applied Science Degree, Associate of Science/Arts, Associate of Fine Arts Degree and Associate Degree in Nursing. Also, the college is accredited by Higher Learning Commission (HLC).  

Yavapai College has an online certificate program in Hospitality. In general, the course prepares learners for management professions in hotels and restaurants. Also, the program offers a well-rounded combination of life skills and business required in the hospitality field.  The curriculum typically entails two major concentration areas, which are restaurant management emphasis and hotel management emphasis.  Learners can select one of the two areas that meet their career goals and individual interests. 

Program Website

11. Ogeechee Technical College

Ogeechee Technical College (OTC) is a public technical institution located in Statesboro, Georgia. The college was established in 1987 through the approval of the Georgia General Assembly. As a result, it is a portion of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) and serves Screven, Evans, Bulloch, and other neighboring counties. Many programs at OTC have been accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education. The highest degree offered at this institution is an associate degree.

Nonetheless, learners can obtain certificates and degrees in 16 diverse programs. Some of the programs are marketing, Computer, and Information Sciences and Support Services, Business Management, and Health Professions, and Related Programs. Its campus is positioned in an urban setting with an admission of about 2,014. 

 OTC offers an online Event Coordinator Certificate Program that prepares undergraduates for careers in different positions in today’s restaurant, hotel, and tourism fields.  The main course covered in the program is hospitality law, event planning, and hospitality marketing. This program is offered online and equips students with the knowledge to advance their skills when working in special events. In other words, learners have a basis they can employ to seek careers in special events coordinators or begin their own event business. 

Program Website

12. University of Iowa

University of Iowa (UI) is a public university situated in Iowa City, Iowa. UI was established in 1847, making it the oldest and second-largest institution in the U.S. It is organized into 12 colleges providing over 200 undergraduate programs and seven professional degrees. Additionally, IU is acknowledged as one of the top universities in America, with more than 5000 courses are provided at the institution every year. For 2021, UI was ranked at 88th position among national universities, 34th position for public universities, and 77th among the most innovative universities. The university is also famous for its fine arts, law, and healthcare programs, as these programs are ranked among the top 25 countrywide. 

UI offers an online Certificate in Event Management developed to fit with any other undergraduate degree, holding a combination of fundamental courses and electives from contributing units. Since it is entirely offered online, it is considered both intercollegiate and interdisciplinary as a mixture is experimental learning with demanding coursework.  Learners can obtain internships with high-level event planning companies. As a result, they are ready to take on significant, considerable, specified, and professional events with skills in planning, risk management, development, staffing, and more. Besides, the courses are customizable, enabling learners to support this academic path with professional development and goals. 

Program Website

13. Dakota College at Bottineau 

Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB) is a public community institution of higher learning in Bottineau, North Dakota. It was initially established in 1906 as a forestry school, making it the home to the North Dakota Forest Service Headquarters. Further, DCB retains partnership with other institutions across the State of North Dakota to issue different degrees. In general, it provides Associate of Science (AS) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees while emphasizing general education prerequisites for degree completion. Certificate and diploma, and the certificate of completion programs that demand fewer credits completion than Associate degrees are provided. Some popular courses at DCB are Licensed Practical Nurse Training (LPN), Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Nursing. 

DCB provides an online Certificate program in Recreation management that prepares learners for careers in different leisure and recreation settings. Learners taking the program can concurrently or simultaneously take courses from several campuses within the North Dakota University System. Additionally, the program is arranged around main classes that focus on program planning, administration, and comprehension of the recreation foundation. Students must accomplish all the main courses for them to graduate. They must also select one of the following specializations: Commercial Recreation/ Tourism or Outdoor Recreation/Park Management. 

Program Website

14. Stephen F. Austin State University

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) is a public institution situated in Nacogdoches, Texas. Initially, SFA was launched as a teacher’s institution in 1923 and was named after one of the founders, Stephen F. Austin. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to offers doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degree programs. Despite being located in the rural East of Nacogdoches, it attracts students from the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, Greater Houston, and other towns in Texas. SFA provides over 120 learning programs, including over 80 undergraduate programs, about 60 graduate majors, and three doctoral degrees. Generally, the university offers courses via one independent school and six colleges. Some of the significant program issues at SFA are Business, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Kinesiology and Exercise Science. 

SFA offers an online certificate program in Hospitality Administration. The program issues undergraduates with the knowledge to further their professional opportunities in the hospitality field. It is designed to attract learners, boost the institution’s visibility and prepare them to compete in the 21st century. Precisely, the program has four main objectives. Firstly, it is designed to prepare students for entry-level in the diverse hospitality industry. Secondly, it aims to offers a learning program that attracts minority, males, and non-traditional students seeking an education with the university.  Thirdly, it targets providing the hospitality industry with well-prepared and qualified personnel. Lastly, it aims to meet students’ needs who desire an academic area to prepare for diverse careers. 

Program Website

15. University of Massachusetts Amherst

University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass) is a vastly rated public higher learning institution in Amherst Center, Massachusetts. Generally, it is a large university with an admission of about 22,500 undergraduate students. As such, it is the third-largest institution in Massachusetts.  The enrollment is typically competitive since the UMass acceptance rate is about 64%. UMass provides about 109 undergraduate degrees, approximately 77 master’s programs, and 48 doctoral degrees. Further, the university has nine schools where the programs are coordinated and about 1300 faculty members. Some of the most popular programs at UMass are Economics, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Psychology. The institution is also accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

UMass offers an online Meeting & Event Management certificate that prepares students to organize and run events. Learners are trained by experts in the hospitality industry about selecting proper meeting sites, coordinating banquet service and audio-visual aids, planning pre-event publicity, and negotiating contracts. As a result, the program prepares students to handle small and large events. The certificate offers skills that one requires to impress employers in the event planning business. Moreover, the certificate aids learners in preparing for the CMP exam. Every course is the correspondent of 36 hours of industry-related advancing education. Students can earn the certificate within a year by completing five studies. 

Program Website

16. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is a public institution of higher learning found in Hays, Kansas. FHSU is the fourth-largest university among the six universities managed by the Kansas Board of Regents. To be precise, it has a total admission of around 15100 students. The university has five colleges which in total have 31 departments. The five colleges offer over 60 academic degrees for undergraduates and about 20 for graduate students. Additionally, learners at FHSU can acquire associate degrees in radiographic technology and office technology. FHSU also issues online learning programs via its “virtual college’ a unit developed from the Department of Continuing Education and Learning Technology. 

FHSU provides an online Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management through its virtual colleges. Learners in the program can select three specializations: event management, hospitality operations, or wellness facilities operations. Students must complete 12 credits in disciplines, 21 credits in major core classes, 24 credits in business classes, and public education requirements. The major courses in the major include service operations, international Hospitality, Hospitality and tourism, and management information systems. Besides attaining the required credits, learners must attend an industry internship to obtain the certificate. In general, the program issues students with the training and education required to enter the hastily advancing tourism and hospitality industry.  

Program Website

17. American Public University System 

American Public University System (APUS) is a for-profit private online higher learning institution. The university is made of American Public University (APU) and American Military University (AMU). Thus, it is entirely possessed by American Public Education. APUS provides doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees, including certificate programs, dual degrees, and learning tracks. In general, the university has over 200 certificate and degree programs offered in six schools. Some of the most known programs are Homeland Security and Disaster Management, business, and Liberal Arts and Humanities.  It is a small university with an admission of about 2400 undergraduate students. Furthermore, the system hires nearly 400 full-time faculty members and about 1800 part-time members. 

APUS has an online certificate program in Meeting and Event Planning. Since the program is entirely offered online, it typically grants older students the chance to fit a specialized certificate program into their busy schedules. It explains the procedures for organizing complex meetings and holding special events. Students acquire best practices to apply in the hospitality industry and learn to solve and antedate common planning problems like administration, client future, environmental concern, etc. Furthermore, the course employs industry advisory councils to ensure students receive the relevant information to meet the global hospitality industry demands. In short, this program developed with a devoted event organizer in mind. 

Program Website

18. American Public University System

American Public University System (APUS) is a for-profit private online higher learning institution. The university is made of American Public University (APU) and American Military University (AMU). Thus, it is entirely possessed by American Public Education. APUS provides doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees, including certificate programs, dual degrees, and learning tracks. In general, the university has over 200 certificate and degree programs offered in six schools. Some of the most known programs are Homeland Security and Disaster Management, business, and Liberal Arts and Humanities.  It is a small university with an admission of about 2400 undergraduate students. Furthermore, the system hires nearly 400 full-time faculty members and about 1800 part-time members.

The university provides an online certificate program in Restaurant Operations. Through the online course, students study food, beverage, and restaurant management. They obtain the crucial behind-the-scene and front-office knowledge to provide exceptional and quality customer services and experiences. As a result, this focused six-course program offers alternatives for coursework in food preparation, sanitation, operations management, and hotel and restaurant law. The courses begin online every month and vary from eight to sixteen weeks. This certificate is mainly designed for aspiring or current food service managers, restaurant employees, or restaurant owners. It would also be an excellent addition to a management or business degree. 

Program Website

19. Wake Technical Community College

Wake Technical Community College (Wake Tech) is a public community institution established in 1963. Wake Tech’s first location was Southern Wake Campus, but it is currently found in Raleigh, North Carolina. The college operates several campuses across Wake County, making it the largest community college in North Carolina. Further, it was accredited Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and is a section of the North Carolina Community College System. The main campus is situated in a rural area with total admission of 21,872. The highest degree provided at Wake Tech is an associate degree. Additionally, learners can obtain certificates and degrees in 19 fields. Some popular programs at the college are General Studies and Humanities, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Management, Business, Marketing, and Related Support Services. 

Wake Tech issues an online certificate program in Hospitality Entrepreneur. The program offers learners the essential business skills and knowledge unique to the restaurants and hotel industry. Some of the courses covered under the program are Hotel & Restaurant Accounting, Sanitation & Safety, Entrepreneurship, and Human Resources Management. Once students graduate, they have a broad comprehension of the basics of beginning a business in the hospitality industry. The program is offered online entirely and requires students to have attained high school or equivalent level to enroll. 

Program Website

20. Dakota County Technical College 

Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) is a public two-year institution located in Rosemount, Minnesota. To be precise, it is found in Dakota County within the Minneapolis metropolitan region. As such, it is situated in a rural setting. The college is a part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System and is among the five stand-alone technical institutions in Minnesota. DCTC has six academic departments that offer 57 instructional programs. The highest degree administered at this college is an associate degree. Also, learners can acquire certificates and degrees in 16 diverse fields. Some popular programs are DCTC are Engineering Technologies and Engineering-Related Fields, Mechanic and Repair Technologies, and Marketing, Management, Business, and Related Support Services. 

DCTC offers an online Meeting & Event Management Certificate program that prepares learners for jobs in marketing and public relations corporations, hotels, country clubs, casinos, resorts, and other industry attractions. The program offers courses like International Negotiation Strategies, Hospitality Marketing & Promotion, Event Design, Special Event Coordination & Management, Hospitality Risk Management & Legal Issues, and Global Hospitality Perspectives. The program is offered entirely online and is institution-paced. The main requirement to join the program is official High scripts or official college transcripts. 

Program Website

The post The 20 Best Online For-Credit Certificates In Hospitality Management appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Even more convenient than an online degree is an online for-credit certificate. These certificate-tracks package bite-size portions of a curriculum into efficient and highly specialized programs. And most attractive of all is the fact that students of these certificate programs can earn credits which they can then apply toward a future degree, should they wish. 

In the context of business management, certificate programs are specialized to prepare students to take on a set of key responsibilities in the job market. These certificates can range from general management to more specialized certifications designed to position professionals to capitalize on niche market opportunities. 

Best Online For-Credit Management Certificates

1. California State University, Fullerton

California State University at Fullerton offers an impressive array of career-minded programs that are designed to be both highly affordable and highly efficient. Whether you are looking to earn a degree or a for-credit certificate, Fullerton has you covered. But of particular note is Fullerton’s business certification program which offers some of the country’s most successful for-credit management certificates. 

The Fullerton School of Professional Development offers nine separate certificate programs that are built to propel professionals to the next level in their careers. Specifically, certifications are available in any of the following specialties: 

• Business Analysis 
• Digital Marketing 
• Game-Based Learning 
• Human Resources Management 
• Human Resources Management (Graduate Certificate)
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Municipal Financial Management
• Project Management
• Business Fundamentals

Click here to learn more

2. Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) has become one of the world’s premier hubs for online education at every level–from undergraduate to graduate, to graduate certificates. ASU offers a fully online Online Nonprofit Leadership and Management Graduate Certificate that is built around a comprehensive curriculum in non-profit business management. 

Specifically, the program is designed for professionals in the following positions:

• Fundraiser
• Public relations manager
• Social and community service manager
• Entrepreneur

The program consistently ranks among the best programs of its kind, earning spots on rankings in a number of the country’s most trusted publications in higher education. Students of the program will progress through the following core areas of study: 

• The Nonprofit Sector
• Financial and Resource Management
• Strategic Human Resources Management: 
• Volunteer Resource Management

Click here to learn more

3. Brigham Young University – Idaho

Brigham Young University (BYU) is a powerhouse in business education, and consistently produces leading CEOs and innovators. For those who are looking for an efficient and affordable path to professional advancement in the field of business management, BYU offers a for-credit certificate option. 

The BYU online certificate of business administration utilizes the immense network of resources provided by the BYU-Pathway Worldwide. Meaning that while the program is offered online, students will find that in many cases the program is able to arrange opportunities in local areas. 

Students of the program will engage a rigorous curriculum which is meant to emphasize the most relevant and updated approaches to business administration. The certificate is meant to aid both business veterans and entry-level business managers. 

Click here to learn more

4. Florida International University

Florida International University (FIU) is a nationally recognized leader in providing future-minded and affordable education to both traditional and non-traditional students. FIU Business in particular offers a number of programs with an impressive catalogue of accolades, which recognize the programs for affordability and for notable metrics of career outcomes.

Specifically, FIU’s online human resources management certificate introduces students to the hot-button issues of the industry: global HR, employee policies and benefits, and legal factors such as Equal Employment Opportunity. The program is designed for professionals with around 1 to 3 years of experience and can be completed in around just three months at a self-paced cadence. 

Click here to learn more

5. University of Illinois at Springfield

The University of Illinois at Springfield has demonstrated success in cultivating modern business professionals. In recent years the University has moved its most successful programs into the digital space, allowing students from all over the country to engage these top-tier programs. 

The AACSB accredited UIS College of Business and Management provides a number of programs that are designed to launch students into successful careers in the public, private, or nonprofit sectors, according to individual student’s aspirations. At UIS students can earn any of the following graduate certificates:

• Entrepreneurship
• Human Resource Management 
• Operations and Supply Chain Management 
• Healthcare Management

Click here to learn more

6. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota (UM) Online offers one of the most robust selections of business-minded certificates with numerous tracks available at the undergraduate and graduate level. Each of the programs is fully accredited and will translate into course-credits for degree programs at the appropriate level. The UM Online business certificate programs are taught by the same stellar faculty who oversee the well-ranked business degree programs on campus. 

The undergraduate business management certifications available are as follows:

• Agricultural Business Certificate
• Applied Business Certificate
• Business Administration Certificate
• Election Administration Certificate
• Health Management Certificate
• Manufacturing Management Certificate
• Sport and Recreation Management Certificate

The graduate level certificates available are as follows: 

• Leadership for Science Professionals Certificate
• Leadership in Health Information Technology for Health Professionals Certificate

Click here to learn more

7. Temple University

Temple University boasts a rich history of decades of educational excellence, further demonstrated by alumni who have gone on to take on positions of national leadership in business and industry. Today more students can benefit from its programs than ever before, thanks to its newly implemented network of online programs. 

Among these is a Certificate of Leadership and Management which is designed to benefit business professionals of all levels of experience. The program’s curriculum is organized around the timeless principles of successful leadership. Specifically, students of the program will engage in the core curriculum courses:

• The Results-Oriented Leader
• Managing the Tough Spots
• Applying Emotional Intelligence
• “M.O.R.E. Teamwork!”

Click here to learn more

8. East Carolina University

The East Carolina University College of Business offers several degree options and a well-ranked business certificate for business professionals of all ages and experience levels. Particularly in the case of the certificate program, the curriculum is designed specifically for students who have either graduated from an undergraduate business program or have demonstrated five years of experience in business. 

Specifically, while the Leadership in Organizations Certificate does present some more specific requirements for those seeking enrollment, this allows the program to engage more advanced aspects of leadership education which might be out of reach in more inclusive certificate programs. 

Students will engage a curriculum that prioritizes an investigation into the following subjects: 

• Ethics
• Motivation
• Power
• Diversity in Leader Behaviors

Click here to learn more

9. Bellevue University

Bellevue University in an open-access, nonprofit institution with an impressive alumni network of more than 50,000 graduates. Bellevue has carved out its specialty in offering highly specialized career-focused programs that are designed to position students to capitalize on opportunities in the job market. In the case of business education, Bellevue University offers a selection of online certificates in less-common specialties that will be ideal for those aiming to work in the appropriate field. 

The primary management certificate is a generalized program in Management and Marketing, which consists of a curriculum built around the following three courses: 

• Human Capital & Organizational Performance (3 Credits)
• MBA 635 Marketing & New Media Strategy (3 Credits)
• MBA 680 Strategy Innovation & Integration (3 Credits)

Though there are a number of other business-focused certificates available as well. You can view these through the link below. 

Click here to learn more

10. Webster University

Webster University is quickly becoming one of the premier hot spots for earning an online degree or certification. Its online graduates alone have reached the 200,000 mark, making it one of the most popular purveyors of online education to date. Webster’s business programs are particularly well known and with the adoption of online learning technology, more students can take advantage than ever before. 

Webster University offers an online certificate in project management, which explores all the aspects of the project management process–from launching to finishing projects, all within a budget and within the expectations of investors and employers. The program is offered through the prestigious and fully accredited George Herbert Walker School of Business and Technology. 

Click here to learn more

11. Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers an advanced certificate program in business administration consisting of 9.5 credits. The program is typically completed over six months at a schedule of around 3-8 hours per week. The program is taught exclusive by the University’s superstar business faculty, who have been specially trained to engage online students. 

The exact program schedule looks like this (but consider reaching out for an update plan if you are considering enrollment for a future period): 

• Finance Accounting Foundations
  • May 3 – June 6, 2021
• Negotiation Strategies
  • June 21 – July 25, 2021
• Content Marketing Strategy
  • August 9 – September 12, 2021
• Management and Human Resource Essentials
  • September 27 – October 31, 2021

Click here to learn more

12. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University has made a name for itself in investing in low barrier to entry education programs capable of accommodating even the busiest of working students and adult learners. FHSU now offers one of the most extensive catalogues of online education programs in the world, and particularly offers a great selection of business tracks to consider. 

The FHSU selection of business certificates is potentially the largest on this list, and covers many of the basics as well as more specialized paths of study. Specifically, students can earn any of the following business certificates: 

• Certificate in Business Report Writing
• Certificate in Customer Service
• Certificate in Digital Business Communication
• Certificate in Marketing
• Certificate in Professional Development
• Certificate in Social Media Marketing
• Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Management
• Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Marketing
• Certificate in Workforce Development

Click here to learn more

13. Pepperdine University

The Pepperdine University Graziadio Business School ranks among the world’s best business schools. Its programs are consistently ranked among the best programs of their respective categories in trusted publications. The Graziadio Business School offers a unique perk wherein students who complete any certification program will earn a scholarship for any Graziadio degree. 

This is an excellent value proposition for any student who had an interest in pursuing one of these degrees. The certificate program itself is similarly a unique proposition, and looks to cultivate high-end leadership skills for professionals who are either currently working as an executive or wish to take on the role of executive leadership.

Specifically, the program is organized into the following schedule: 

• April 3, 2021: Cyber Risk Professional (Virtual)
• May 17, 2021: Leadership Essentials for Managers (Virtual)
• August 23, 2021: Corporate Social Responsibility (Virtual)
• September 16, 2021: Mini MBA (Virtual)
• November 1, 2021: Financial Management for the Family Office (Malibu, CA)
• Fall 2021: Healthcare Management and Leadership (Virtual)
• Fall 2021: Business Analytics (Virtual)
• Fall 2021: Private Capital Markets (Malibu, CA)
• Fall 2021: Executive Leadership Essentials (Malibu, CA) 

Click here to learn more

14. Post University

Post University sports an incredibly rich history that stretches back all the way back to 1890. Post University continues to modernize itself today as it looks to accommodate the needs of modern students. As such, Post University offers a wide array of options for online education and professional development. Post’s online degree programs are designed to accommodate students so that they can progress through coursework anytime and anywhere. 

Post University offers a fully online Graduate Certificate in Project Management that is designed to cultivate one’s management skills for success in this field. Specifically, students will master the various skills associated with project management: 

• Assessing financial resource needs and impacts
• Defining and managing project risk
• Leading project teams
• Managing project finances
• Using project management systems

Click here to learn more

15. University of Nebraska

The University of Nebraska Office of Graduate Studies consistently ranks among the best locations to earn a graduate degree online. In recent years the University has capitalized on this success, expanding its offerings to reach more students. Specifically, the University now offers a number of specialized for-credit graduate certificates designed for professionals after college graduation who want to pursue further professional development. 

The University of Nebraska’s Certificate of Construction Engineering and Management is designed to prepare business-minded professionals to take on roles of leadership in the construction, engineering, and architectural industries. The program is taught by the University’s same stellar faculty, who delve into advanced topics such as the following: 

• Heavy/highway construction
• Materials design
• Building information modeling (BIM)
• Project administration
• Project management
• Design/build
• Sustainable construction
• Leadership and strategic planning for construction
• Productivity and human factors
• Codes and specialty permitting
• Construction site safety

Click here to learn more

16. Bethel University

Bethel University offers an impressive selection of undergraduate online certificates that can act as a bridge into a new area of study for both first-time and second-time students. Bethel’s undergraduate certificates are designed specifically to give students a leg up when transferring credits into an undergraduate degree program. 

Bethel University offers a Business Management certificate track that offers six specialty tracks. The program is completed through 18 credits of coursework, all of which can be transferred and counted towards a Bachelor’s degree in the future. 

The program’s curriculum is built around the following core courses:

• Leadership
• Sales Management
• Crisis Management in Business
• Business & Society
• Organizational Analysis II
• Legal Environment of Business

Click here to learn more

17. Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University specializes in offering students multiple in-roads for professional development. While many schools offer a few certificates here and there, Kennesaw State University has opened up a School that is specifically designed to offer such programs. The Kennesaw State University School of Professional Studies offers a Business Management Professional Certificate that is completed over 480 hours of time-investment. 

Students of the program will delve into all the various components of business management from the bottom up. Specifically, students can expect comprehensive coverage of the following core topics: 

• Business Management
• Project Management
• Project Management Fundamentals
• Becoming a Multiplying Manager
• Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace

Click here to learn more

18. Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University (DBU) offers a unique value proposition in that it packages a traditional baptist ethos into a modern mission, prioritizing a universal message of community, social activism, and leadership more than any one denomination’s perspective. 

Despite the modest size and infrastructure of DBU, it offers an extensive selection of certificate options, both at the undergraduate and graduate level. Of the online undergraduate certifications is the program in healthcare management (though many other options are available). Students of the program complete a curriculum organized into the following format: 

• Health Care Ethics
• Human Resource Management for Health Care Organizations
• Finance for Healthcare Managers
• Legal Issues in Healthcare Management
• Organizational Behavior in Health Care Management*
• Principles of Management (S-L)

Click here to learn more

19. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is a foremost provider of online education, both at the undergraduate and graduate level. But among its most successful programs are its online certificate programs, which are designed to provide a middle ground for students seeking professional advancement who may not have the time or resources (or desire) to enroll in a full degree program.

Grand Canyon University offers a fully online Graduate Certificate in Project Management, which is designed to prepare business-minded professionals who wish to polish their leadership ability in the context of project management. The curriculum is formatted around these key topics: 

• IT Management and Leadership (Total Credits: 4)
• Organizational Development and Change (Total Credits: 4)
• Fundamentals of Project Management (Total Credits: 4)
• Agile Project Management (Total Credits: 4)

Click here to learn more

20. City University of Seattle

City University (CityU) of Seattle is a relatively young institution that has positioned itself to cater to modern students who desire efficient, affordable, and academically rigorous programs. As such, CityU designs its programs around central tenets: 

• Flexibility
• Accessibility
• Innovation
• Relevance
• Globa

CityU offers an online Project Management certificate that is completed over 18 credits, which are designed to be easily transferred should graduates seek enrollment into a degree program. The program looks to cultivate a high-end leadership ability rooted in practical skill sets. The program’s instructors have designed the program to reflect the demands of the real world as well as the expectations of future investors and employers. 

Click here to learn more

The post The 20 Best Online For-Credit Certificates in Management appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

The times, they have a-changed.

Yes, technology will continue to rapidly change, but it is here to stay. And let’s face it – everyone uses it. This means there are plenty of employment opportunities in the Computer Science field, often known as IT.

All salaries, education requirements and projected employment growth were sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website. If a particular career was not featured on the BLS site, Payscale.com was used for median salary.

1. Software Engineer

Chances are, you have a software program up and running right this very second on your computer screen. Maybe you are playing a game, or maybe you are entering an invoice in your trusty business program for your own small business. These types of programs are all designed and developed by Software Engineers. An Engineer applies their years of studying the rudiments of computer science and mathematical analysis to then create, test, and assess the software applications that we all use daily. Do not confuse them with programmers, who actually create the codes to make a program run. It is the Software Engineer that creates the designs that the programmer implements.

Median salary: $93,350
Education level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 22% increase between 2012 and 2022

2. Web Developer

One of the most popular websites is The Oatmeal; it’s basically a comics and articles website created by a young guy from Seattle. The website gets 4 million unique visitors a month, so chances are you’ve seen it, or seen someone you know share a cartoon. It’s no surprise people like it so much. It is graphically pleasing and it has great content. You know who we can thank for that? The Web Developer.

A Web Developer designs and creates websites. They are totally responsible for the looks, technical aspects as well as the performance of a website. They also know how much a website can handle, figuring out bandwidth and how much traffic a particular site can handle. And finally, they often create or manage the content for the site. It’s a big job with a lot of responsibly. Don’t worry though – compensation is usually generous.

Median salary: $62,500
Education level: Associate’s degree
Projected employment growth: 20% increase between 2012 and 2022

3. Data Modeler

Obviously there is this mass of data we are dealing with in any give computer system; someone needs to translate and separate all of it to make it useful for businesses or institutions. Here steps in the Data Modeler. They are essentially System Analysts with a focus on reducing redundancy of data within a particular computer system, improving it, and getting this data moved to other systems. Data Modelers are dedicated to computer architecture; they work with a team to implement data flow strategies.

Say what, say who? Listen, these are special people with special brains. If you understand the above lingo, you’re a technical wizard and you need to seek out this career!

Median Salary: $79,680
Education level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 25% increase between 2012 and 2022

4. Cloud Architect

Everybody is cloud crazy. The old style of computing is that you relied on massive computers to store data. Now computer systems are moving from real physical storage to this this thing called Cloud Service. So instead of the old model, you’re using a service powered by a group of hardware somewhere in the world and delivered in a shared capacity to your actual unit over the Internet.

The Cloud Engineer is responsible for understanding server administration, networking and running applications on these virtual and non-virtual platforms. Creating resilient cloud infrastructure is the next big topic amongst those in this field. When a cloud goes down and all the data storage from, say, a big online company like Amazon is in limbo, the Cloud Architect needs to know the right fix because we all know downtime equals lost dollars. Very important job here; expect future demand to only increase.

Median Salary: $102,000
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 26% increase between 2012 and 2022

5. Lead Programmer

Just like your title explicitly says, you are the Leader of a team of programmers. Don’t get a big head though, because sometimes it’s just for one particular project. Other positions may have you permanently chosen as Lead. Don’t be surprised if the title varies employer to employer.

Yes, you’ll be expected to know how to program; that of course means you possess the technical skills and knowledge of multiple programming languages. However, you will also be part manager, as you lead your team in things like code release coordination, troubleshooting and of course being available for emergency responses.

The Lead Programmer is also a resource for other IT staff, working closely and providing advice and technical support for a variety of projects. You’ll be mainly working with web-based applications. Administrative, organizational and managerial skills are a must.

Median Salary: $80,037
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 8% increase between 2012 and 2022

6. Database Administrator

A Database Administrator (DBA) sets up databases dependent on a company’s needs. They have to work with programmers and managers fine tuning and testing any alterations as needed. Data within a company has to stay sensitive for security reasons, so a Database Administrator’s primary job is to ensure that safety. They protect, more than any other IT professional within a company, this precious data. It is imperative that they make sure this data is available only to authorized users and secure from any unauthorized access.

DBAs are also responsible for all the technical parts of the database. They may install upgrades and applications; they may have to write code or de-bug or patch programs. In the event of a power outage, a DBA makes sure a back up system is in place and guarantees data safety.

Median Salary: $77,080
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 15% increase between 2012 and 2022

7. Systems Analyst

The Systems Analyst is like the buyer for a business or company, at least concerning their computer configuration. You’ll have to stay within a budget, and select the most optimal software, hardware, internet and networking tools to accomplish the goals of the company. You’ll work side-by-side with a Systems Engineer, but you will be more concerned with your customer or end user rather then the designing aspect.

To be a good analyst, you’ll apply accounting principals, business skills, and stellar communication skills. You’ll compare businesses of similar sizes to hone in on your company’s needs. The programmer and engineer then come along and build this carefully chosen system. However, you are never in the clear, as these systems have to constantly be tweaked, assessed, and updated frequently.

But that’s a good thing! It keeps you employed!

Median Salary: $79,680
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree; however an MBA is most helpful
Projected employment growth: 25% increase between 2012 and 2022

8. Information Security Analyst

If hackers are the creeps trying to sneak into your internet club, then Information Security Analysts are the bouncers. These IT professionals try to stay ahead of a would-be cyberattack. They need to monitor their organization’s networks, investigate possible violations, and make sure all efforts are made to protect their clients’ sensitive information.

Security is the name of their game. Day in, day out, they are heavily immersed in preventative measures. Sometimes that’s direct computer work; other times that means managing others in the IT department. However, they themselves report to the Chief Officer (CO). A bulk of your time will be spent attending cybersecurity conferences as well, so be prepared for some traveling!

Median Salary: $86,170
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 37% increase between 2012 and 2022

9. Systems Engineer

First we have the Systems Analysts doing their job, which requires an immense amount of research. Then they basically buy up this amazing, meets-your-needs, totally affordable computer system for the company. Well hey, now someone needs to build it.

Call the engineer, stat!

A Systems Engineer’s job is like a designer or a builder of this newly acquired computer system that was previously ordered by the Analyst. The Engineer then works their magic in setting up the hardware, software and applications. Sometimes the roles are blurred within the different IT professions. Many need to have the same knowledge concerning the computer system. Depending on your particular company’s job descriptions, you may or may not share the same duties.

Median Salary: $65,251
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: N/A

10. Business Analyst/ Project Managers

Allen Hackman, a Senior Director of Information Technology at Tyco International, called the Business Analysts “one of the most critical roles in the info tech space”. “It starts with them and ends with them”, Hackman says.

Wow, okay. That’s some big shoes to fill!

The Business Analyst are the problem solvers, the go-to guys. They are less tech, more business. Analysts need to have this strong business background because their main job is to tweak a company’s system and make it more usable and, more importantly, effective. They’re not sitting around with an open motherboard or tapping away piles and piles of data. These Analysts, also known as Project Managers, are taking on projects within a company. Say a company needs to make cutbacks; these specialists problem-solve and find a resolution, such as eliminating duplicate or nonessential jobs. Hey, nobody said it would be easy.

Median Salary: $78,600
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 19% increase between 2012 and 2022

11. Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator’s whole job centers around keeping the organizations’s equilibrium. No simple task, mind you. There is communication, work flow, and then all the technical things that can go awry.

Businesses need everything to run smoothly with the computer systems, the networks, as well as the equipment and software. Systems Administrators identify issues and fix them. One of the main concerns on a daily basis for a Systems Administrator is making sure the email, central data storage network and employee workstations are all configured correctly. They set up servers and train new employers on the system. With the growing trend for some jobs going remote, it is important for a Systems Administrator to help employees connect outside the workplace.

Median Salary: $72,560
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 12% increase between 2012 and 2022

12. Mobile Developers

In a 2013 study by Internet Trends, it was reported that smartphone users check their phones 150 times a day; of course that’s between apps, texts, voice calls and utilities. Another report estimates 127 minutes of use. These numbers matter because where there are viewers, there is money to be made. Advertisers, game companies, app developers and anyone else with something to market want your attention.

The Mobile Developer is the designer and coder of programs and applications running on phones and tablets. They make sure everything from the regular computer website translates to its mobile counterpart. They are essentially software developers for the mobile market.

Median Salary: $71,071
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: N/A

13. Java Developers

Java is a computer programming language; developers of Java write software using the language that runs adequately on a variety of computers.

You may remember Netscape Navigator, the old web browser from the mid-nineties? Well, Java powered that browser. A Java specific developer is really an application developer who happens to specialize in Java. They integrate their code with software written in other languages (think HTML, C++). They have to be versed in all program languages.

Median Salary: $70,280
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 8% increase between 2012 and 2022

14. Business Intelligence Developer

A Business Intelligence Developer is the data expert in the IT world. They try to make sense of data a business already has. A strong programming background and knowledge of SQL is needed, as working with software and databases are the two main components of a BI Developer. BI Developers apply data mining algorithms and create and design charts and tables. This is a highly technical field of computer science; they figure out how to use all the data and then they execute a report.

Median Salary: $79,680
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 22% increase between 2012 and 2022

15. Data Scientist

Data Scientists are similar to Analysts, but slightly less technical. A Data Scientist typically has a computer science degree coupled with a strong business astuteness. They look at things multi-faceted, not just though the eyes of a typical IT worker. It’s a position that has evolved from the old Data Analyst role, and the demand for their expertise continues to grow as companies find their non-traditional nature an advantage in the sea of sameness amongst IT professionals.

Uniqueness pays! This is one of the higher paying gigs of IT.

Median Salary: $96,579
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: N/A

16. Network Architect

Network Architect builds and designs local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), intranets and data communication networks. A Network Architect is needed whether a business has, at the least, 2 small offices, or a global giant of a company with offices in every major city. You see, computer systems need to be networked to stay informed of each other and help achieve their company’s goal.

Typically you will have to predict the future network needs for the company you work for. You’ll need to be completely knowledgeable in software, hardware technology and implement security patches. You’ll look at current data, consult with other IT professionals to address all these concerns, and your main job is to build and link networks. This is one of the hands-on IT positions; we’re talking cables, routers and drivers. You will be physically engaging with hardware, so your knowledge must go from head to hand. Considering the required expertise, I should be expects that this is one of the higher paid positions in IT.

Median Salary: $91,000
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 15% increase between 2012 and 2022

17. Application Developer

Apps are not just for your smartphone; Applications are used in almost every kind of computer device, from your spiffy new IPhone to that old Dell dinosaur in your spare room. Application Developers are the brains behind these Apps. They develop every game nuance, every little email function you covet, and for that matter every feature you say, geez, why’d they put that there?

They are the “They”.

They don’t work alone though. Usually there is a team assessing ideas and concepts for the public and they, along with graphic artists, software specialists and data experts, create the applications. Obviously they need to know how to code and they will have a strong knowledge of computer programming.

Median Salary: $93,350
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: 22% increase between 2012 and 2022

18. Digital Marketing Manager

This is an IT career that veers off the T in IT and leans heavily on its business roots. After all, you need to be well versed in the field of Marketing as your title implies.

In recent years we’ve seen Marketing change significantly, not just with the advent of social media, but more of a switch from older conventional models, such as print and direct styles, to a more digital emphasis. Sure, there are hundreds of ways to market and sell products and services. But if you’ve been paying attention, print marketing is at a near extinction in favor of digital.

Digital Marketing Managers are hired and needed to emphasize this digital element in almost every companies new marketing plans. They work on a team and focus on achieving a company’s long and short term goals.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the name of their game. It’s the most important strategy in a Digital Marketers tool box. They need to know what works, and what doesn’t to bring their companies web presence in the top of a search engine like Google’s list.

Learn more about how much you can make with a degree in digital marketing.

Median Salary: $66,386
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: N/A

19. Social Media Director

This job is for the savvy computer geek. A great Social Media Director has to be in the know, period. They need to know the latest and greatest in the digital world. They were probably tweeting on Internet Relay Chat (IRC) before Twitter came along!

No, but really, they they’ve truly got an eye for how to strategically use the buzz of social media for their clients or business’s benefit.

These IT professionals are not the Introverted type; they have to have the ability to talk to anyone, always networking and connecting to boost their objectives. Now it doesn’t pay extremely well, but an Associate’s degree should suffice to land this gig.

Median Salary: $45,260
Education Level: Associate’s degree
Projected employment growth: 37% increase between 2012 and 2022

20. Chief Data Officer

This is a relatively new position in the world of IT. A Chief Data Officer (CDO), resides next to other Chiefs. There is Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officers, but a CDO is clearly distinct in that their main objective is to exploit data. You see data, once a concern for lots of different positions, and mainly just to file away, has become so valuable that companies have created this new role that essentially brings the importance of data, its functions and operations, to the executive board table.

Obviously there is a big reason why data has become king concern amongst companies. And you can probably guess why that is.

Money.

Yes, the almighty dollar plays into the story here. With access to detailed market information, customer data and other analytics, a company’s CDO can identify ways in which all this data can be of use monetarily. What if a fast food company noticed through gathered data that it’s customers purchased milkshakes at a certain time of day? The CDO would notice these trends and a marketing team would then utilize that information to their advantage. This career path is so new, all we could find is a range of salaries offered through websites with job offers such as Glassdoor.com.

Median Salary: Over $100,000
Education Level: Bachelor’s degree
Projected employment growth: N/A

For Further Reading: 

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Intelligence Analyst?

Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Careers

Top 10 Paying Jobs That Involve Math

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

What Is the Benefit of a Degree in Cybersecurity vs. Network Security?

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Information Technology Specialist?

The post Top 20 In-Demand Information Technology Careers appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

As an extrovert, your outgoing nature and people skills will make you an excellent candidate for a wide range of career paths in sought-after industries like healthcare, finance, education, legal, communication and business. With our Top 10 Careers for Extroverts list, you can discover a profession that will be as personally fulfilling as it is financially and professionally rewarding, one that fits your personality as well as your goals.

Remember, though, that no one is a complete extrovert. If none of these options appeal to you, take a look at our Top 10 Careers for Introverts – you might not be as much of an extrovert as you think.

 1. Lawyer

Lawyers represent individuals, organizations, businesses and government agencies in legal matters that range from criminal trial proceedings to drawing up contracts and wills. They inform and guide their clients in legal matters ranging from business to personal. While television portrayals typically show attorneys at trials, lawyers don’t spend every moment of their time locked in real-life courtroom battles. They do a lot of their work behind-the-scenes, communicating with clients, investigating legal matters and collecting evidence, interpreting laws and drafting legal documents. They must communicate facts both in writing and verbally – and that’s where the career appeals to extroverts.

When a lawyer goes to trial, he or she must be comfortable speaking in front of an entire courtroom full of people. Lawyers need to have the confidence to argue legal matters in court, in front of judges and juries, and to question witnesses and defendants. They must make their arguments compelling. For an introvert, this could be a daunting task, but an extrovert like you might find this to be the most exciting and rewarding part of the job.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $113,530

Education Level: Law school degree (Doctoral degree)

Projected employment growth: 10 percent

2. Physical Therapist

Physical therapists are healthcare professionals who work with patients to improve their mobility and decrease pain. When patients suffer an illness or injury that restricts their ability to move, it can affect every aspect of their lives. Physical therapists rehabilitate these patients through the use of exercise, hands-on therapy, stretches, heat and cold applications, electric stimulation, assistive devices for walking and other modalities and equipment. A physical therapist’s job is to help patients function better.

A wide variety of patients requires physical therapy. Young people and even babies must see a physical therapist for help with developmental delays. Among older patients, strokes are a common cause of mobility issues that call for physical therapy. Patients may also come to a physical therapist at any age to help with conditions caused by sports injuries or accidents. Sometimes patients need therapy for recovering from a one-time but acute injury, while other times they’re seeking solutions for coping with chronic conditions. A physical therapist must be comfortable interacting with a range of patients. Like other medical professionals, they need to be able to educate and explain treatment plans to patients. More so than many other healthcare workers, physical therapists must motivate and encourage patients, some of whom may feel depressed as a result of their injury and limitations or discouraged by progress that is slower than they would like. An outgoing, extroverted physical therapist can inspire these patients and help them make the best possible recovery for their condition.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $79,860

Education Level: Doctoral degree

Projected employment growth: 36 percent

 3. Dental hygienist

Dental hygienists are healthcare professionals who clean and examine patients’ teeth. They work in dentists’ offices, where they spend most of their workdays interacting directly with patients. When patients visit the office for a cleaning or for other preventive dental care, the dental hygienist is the one who actually cleans and polishes their teeth, using manual, power and ultrasonic equipment to eliminate stains, plaque and tartar. They are often responsible for taking x-rays of the mouth, administering fluorides, applying sealants to teeth and examining patients’ mouths to detect any signs of dental problems or oral diseases.

While patients are in the chair, they typically can’t do much talking themselves, since the dental hygienist is hard at work on cleaning their teeth. It takes an extrovert to feel comfortable doing most or all of the talking, helping to put the minds of sometimes nervous patients at ease. Dental hygienists also advise patients on ways to enhance their dental health, such as the right way to brush and floss and the impact of diet on their teeth and gums. For someone with a compassionate nature and an outgoing personality, the opportunity to interact frequently with patients and to educate them on improving their health can be energizing and fulfilling. 

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $70,210

Education Level: Associate’s degree

Projected employment growth: 33 percent

4. Financial Advisor

Financial advisors use their knowledge of the world of finance to guide clients in choosing the right investment opportunities, decreasing their tax burdens and making insurance decisions to protect their interests. Successful financial advisors are knowledgeable about a wide range of finance topics, from tax laws to stocks, bonds and other types of investments. However, they do more than offer general advice. They interact with clients directly and learn about their personal situations, including their goals and financial situations. Financial advisors then talk with their clients about the different options available to them and the financial risks involved. They research different investment opportunities to discuss with their clients, keep an eye on how clients’ investments are performing and answer any financial questions their clients have.

The people and speaking skills necessary to interact well with clients are among the most important qualities a financial advisor can have, which makes this career an excellent choice for extroverts. After all, financial advisors need to understand their clients’ goals and their current financial situations. They must establish a rapport with clients that will help them discuss important matters that are both financial and personal, such as when the client wants to retire and how to plan financially for life changes like having children. Financial advisors also need strong sales skills to market their own services, especially if they are self-employed.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $67,520

Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Projected employment growth: 27 percent

5. Nurse

Nurses care for patients in a variety of settings, from hospitals and doctors’ offices to nursing home facilities, prisons and schools. Registered nurses fulfill many roles in patient care. They write down medical histories, symptoms and their own observations. Nurses work with other healthcare professionals to coordinate treatment plans, perform diagnostic tests, use medical equipment and interpret test results. Within the healthcare facility, nurses dispense treatments and medicines.

One thing nearly all of a nurse’s many job duties have in common is their interaction with others. Obviously, nurses interact with the patients with whom they work directly. They need to have good people and communication skills to connect with patients, some of whom may be nervous about test results or uncomfortable procedures, and to put their minds at ease. Good nurses draw upon these same skills to explain to patients what to expect and what they must do, including how to take medication. They must also have and express compassion for their patients. Since nurses often work with doctors and a variety of other healthcare professionals, they also use their strong communication and interpersonal skills collaborating with other members of their team.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $65,470

Education Level: Associate’s degree

Projected employment growth: 19 percent

6. Mediator

Mediators are legal professionals who work with the parties involved in a legal dispute to help them resolve the problem outside of the court system. They are neutral or impartial with regards to the case, meaning that they aren’t on the side of either the plaintiff or defendant. Instead, they meet with both parties simultaneously and work to help them communicate effectively to reach an agreement without having to go to trial. Though they do their work in private hearings rather than in the courtroom, mediators are an important part of the legal system. Resolving disputes outside of court means that the parties involved can avoid the cost, time and hassle of a trial and that fewer cases are clogging up an already overburdened court system.

While mediators must know and understand the laws that relate to the cases they mediate, much of their success is based upon skills that are common among extroverts. Mediators must be good listeners and communicators, and they must be able to interact well with others to help them communicate more effectively, too. They have to talk to plaintiffs, defendants and witnesses to learn the background of the case and the events that led to the legal dispute.  They must make sure that everyone involved understands the process and sort out each party’s interests and concerns. Mediators need excellent critical thinking and people skills to get parties on opposite sides of a dispute to put aside their differences and work toward resolving the issue without having to resort to a trial or further litigation. For extroverts who naturally enjoy being surrounded by and interacting with people, the challenge of getting parties on opposite sides to work together can be as exciting as it is rewarding.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $61,280

Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Projected employment growth: 10 percent

7. Human Resources Specialist

In the business world, human resources professionals play an important role: helping companies and organizations hire their employees. Workers are an important asset in every industry, and it’s a human resources specialist’s job to screen and hire quality workers and to handle matters such as training and orientation, employment paperwork, payroll and benefits.

When dealing with new and prospective new employees, human resources specialists will spend a lot of time interacting with people they don’t yet know. They must be comfortable meeting and interviewing new people from a wide variety of backgrounds, and they need to communicate well by being both good listeners and good speakers. Human resources specialists need to be confident in their own decision-making skills when it comes to determining which candidate is the best fit for the position they are trying to fill. Even after the hiring process is complete, human resources specialists guide new employees in filling out paperwork and understanding their job duties and benefits as well as conducting employee orientations. For extroverts, the opportunity to meet and interact with new people isn’t just a necessary part of the job, but may very well be the best part of the job. With experience and ambition, human resources specialists can advance to human resources manager positions. Not only does a management job allow extroverts to put their considerable leadership skills to work, but it also comes with substantially higher pay – a median salary of $99,720 per year.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $55,640

Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Projected employment growth: 8 percent

8. Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists are professionals in the field of media and communication who work toward a specific goal: managing the public image of an organization. Some public relations specialists, media specialists or communications specialists work in-house within a government entity, healthcare facility, educational institution or other organization, while others work in firms that handle public relations campaigns for a variety of external clients. Regardless of their work environment and situation, public relations specialists use the same strategies to create and perpetuate a positive image among consumers, investors and the media for the organizations they represent. They draft press releases announcing news concerning their organizations and distribute the information to a network of relevant contacts in the print and broadcast media. They field requests for information from media representatives and coordinate interviews with company spokespeople so that the information can be used in a newspaper or magazine article, a radio broadcast or a television news segment.

Strategy – and skilled implementation of that strategy – is an important part of success in public relations, but being a good problem-solver and writer isn’t enough. Public relations specialists must have excellent interpersonal skills to cultivate a network of relevant media contacts and maintain strong working relationships with those contacts. They must be comfortable not only initiating contact with reports, editors and other members of the media, but also speaking for the organization they represent. Where introverts might shudder at the thought of putting themselves and their company in the public eye and constantly courting the attention of the media, true extroverts will thrive in a busy, fast-paced career like public relations. Experienced public relations specialists can move into management positions, where they can earn a median annual salary of $95,450 and have the opportunity to lead teams and campaigns.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $54,170

Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Projected employment growth: 12 percent

9. Teacher

Teachers are the professionals responsible for educating young people in a variety of subjects and grade levels. Whether teaching very young children at the preschool, kindergarten and elementary school level or teenagers and young adults at the middle school or high school level, teachers must be able to connect with their students and find ways to make learning interesting. They create and carry out lesson plans that illustrate course material. They may procure or develop worksheets and tests. Teachers assign and grade classwork, homework and projects that help students learn not only the material, like a history lesson or science lecture, but also help them develop skills such as critical thinking. They grade tests and assignments and work with struggling students to help them grasp lessons.

Teachers are often the only adult, or one of the only adults, in a classroom full of students. They must not only be comfortable with public speaking, but also getting to know and communicate with each individual student. Successful teachers have the interpersonal skills to interact and communicate with a variety of people, from their young students to fellow adults. Teachers have to discuss students’ progress, including their strengths and weaknesses, with parents and guardians during conferences or when an academic or behavioral issue arises. They also have to work with colleagues, including other teachers, school counselors and administrators. Whether a teacher is standing up in front of a class giving a presentation, facilitating a group discussion or assigning work, he or she must lead students and manage the classroom – tasks that extroverts, who thrive in environments full of people and interaction, will often be comfortable doing. 

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $53,090 – $55,050 per year

Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Projected employment growth: 6 to 12 percent

10. Event Planner

Event planners are the business professionals who organize a wide variety of events that range from weddings and parties to professional conferences, conventions and meetings. They work directly with both clients and professionals in the hospitality, transportation and professional services industries. Prior to the event, planners coordinate all of the details, including the date and time, the venue, transportation and catering or food service. They seek out locations and services that will fit the client’s needs, negotiate prices and coordinate all services required, making sure to keep the cost of the event under the agreed-upon budget. The job doesn’t end once the planning is complete. While the event is going on, planners are busy managing equipment, guest registration and other logistics and resolving any problems that emerge.

As an extrovert, you probably enjoy going out and experiencing events, from weddings to business conventions. What career could be more interesting than planning those events yourself? Event planners spend much of their time interacting with other people. They talk to clients to discover their needs and ideas. Then they work with the appropriate vendors and suppliers to fill those needs and negotiate contracts and prices. Because event planning is such a fast-paced industry, the professionals in it must be composed under pressure and comfortable thinking on their feet to solve problems.

Experienced Median Annual Salary: $45,810

Education Level: Bachelor’s degree

Projected employment growth: 33 percent

Related Resources:

20 Non-Law Firm Jobs with a Law Degree

What Degree Do You Need to Be a Lawyer?

What Degree Do I Need to Be a Mediator?

How Many Jobs Are Available in Finance?

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Exciting Jobs: The Top 15 Jobs for Adrenaline Seekers

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