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steve — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:50:42 +0000

Early Childhood Education Degree

steve — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:05:13 +0000

Parents are considered by many to be their children’s very first teachers. After all, we learn our earliest socialization and communication skills courtesy of our interactions with our parents. However, at some point the amount of educating a parent can provide a child comes to an end, unless of course that parent happens to be a teacher as well. The first people we entrust with our children when we send them off for formal schooling are preschool and elementary school teachers. These teachers have all completed early childhood education degree programs in order to become licensed teaching professionals.

There are three common degree levels at which individuals can earn an early childhood education degree. Degrees are available at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's level and will open several doors to potential early childhood teachers.

Associate's programs are the most basic and quickest to complete, taking roughly two to three years. Most associate's programs require little to no prerequisites, though some prefer to take students with prior experience working with young children. Coursework in most associate's programs includes specialized class geared towards early childhood and age appropriate approaches to subjects. Examples of courses include:

Child development
Psychology
Literature
Math
Science
Social studies

Examples of associate's degrees in early childhood education include but are not limited to the following:

Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Care and Education
Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education
Associate of Applied Science in Business Management - Child Development

Graduates from associate's programs generally find employment in the earliest levels of childhood education such as preschool teacher, day care provider, and in some cases kindergarten teacher.

Those interested in pursuing higher positions in early childhood education would be well advised to pursue bachelor's level courses. Many bachelor's programs include similar coursework to an associate's program, but also include more advanced coursework including:

Growth and development
Applied theory
Ethics and professionalism
Children in the inclusive classroom
Health and nutrition
Lesson planning and implementation

Similar to their associate's program counterparts, bachelor's program students will need to complete student-teaching positions before graduation. Unlike their associate's program counterparts, bachelor's graduates are prepared for licensure as a teacher and can apply for higher positions in early childhood education. Examples of degree programs at this level include:

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Development
Bachelor of Science in Child Studies

Within these programs individuals can pursue greater specialization including areas of focus such as infants and toddlers, and preschool age children. Upon graduation students will find some of the following positions open to them:

Kindergarten teacher
Elementary school teacher
Child librarian

Those who are interested in the highest early childhood education degrees will need to put in more time in school themselves, earning a master's or doctorate in the process. In order to enter these programs students must have completed at least a bachelor's degree and have several years of teaching experience as well, in most cases. Examples of degrees at this level include:

Master of Arts in Education - Early Childhood Education
Master of Education - Early Childhood Education
Doctor of Philosophy in Education - Early Childhood Education (PhD)
Doctor of Education - Early Childhood Education (EdD)

At this stage of education teachers will be provided the opportunity to take high specialized coursework that includes but is not limited to the following:

Child psychology
Classroom management
Early childhood learning environments
Family engagement
Strategies for eliminating achievement gaps

Graduates from these high level early childhood education programs are prepared for administrative positions and other leadership roles. These can include:

Elementary school principals
Education administrator
Curriculum instructor

Working with young children can be extremely challenging and takes a great deal of patience, but the importance of early childhood educators cannot be overlooked as they are the first individuals to help mold the minds of young children.

Special Education Degrees

steve — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:45:18 +0000

It takes a special person to pursue the calling of becoming a teacher. Dealing with children can be difficult, just ask any parent, but dealing with children that aren't your own can be an even greater task. There are a variety of teaching positions available across the country from kindergarten teachers to college professors, but one of the most important roles is that of special education teacher. Individuals with a special education degree work with one of the most at-risk student groups, those who are dealing with physical, cognitive, emotional or behavioral disabilities.

Those interested in working with this special group of children need to earn a special education degree first. There are several special education degrees available that potential teachers can earn. These degrees are available predominantly at the following levels:

Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate

Earning a bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for a career as a special education teacher. Degree programs at this level generally take four to five years to complete. Before students graduate they must complete a student-teaching position in the field before becoming eligible for licensure. Examples of special education degrees at this level include:

Bachelor of Science in Education - Special Education
Bachelor of Arts in Special Education

Some states in the U.S. are beginning to make a master's degree the minimum requirement for licensure as a special education teacher. Master's programs require an additional two to three years of study and for many programs students must first have completed prerequisite programs including but not limited to:

Child or Adolescent Development
Statistics and measurement: Introduction to Educational Measurement and Statistics
Individual differences: Education of Exceptional Individuals

Much like other educational degrees, completing a master's degree prepares individuals to take on greater roles within special education. Often the result for special educators is a greater administrative role at institutions geared toward special needs individuals, or outside positions involving policy and curriculum development.

Beyond earning a master's degree individuals have the option of pursuing a doctoral degree. Coursework at this level is going to be based largely upon academic research, especially for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students. Examples of special education degrees available at this level include:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)
Doctor of Education (EdD)

There are degrees available at this level that offer further specialization, especially within PhD programs. These areas of specialization include subjects such as Special Education Leadership, K-12 Studies in Education, Professional Studies in Education, and Curriculum and Instruction.

Regardless of the special education degree program that an individual pursues they are likely to land one of the following positions within special education:

Primary grades special education teacher
Rehabilitation teacher
Teacher of the visually impaired
Teacher of the hearing impaired
Learning disabilities specialist

Special education teachers are found within all levels of the education system, but are primarily employed in the elementary and secondary education systems in the U.S. Other areas of employment include individual and social assistance agencies, residential facilities, and homebound or hospital environments.

Elementary Education Teaching Degrees

steve — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:38:29 +0000

America's most important profession is also its most under-appreciated profession. Each day millions of parents across the country don't even think twice as they send their kids off to school to be molded into adults and provided with important life skills by another individual. Teachers are the backbone of American society, teaching generation after generation the basic knowledge they need to help sustain society and provide for themselves. Elementary school teachers play a huge role in the process because they are often the first trained teachers to come in contact with young minds in a formative state.

Becoming an elementary school teacher requires the completion of an elementary education degree program. Students interested in teaching at the elementary school level, kindergarten through sixth grade, can pursue a variety of degree programs that include:

Associate's
Bachelor's
Master's

It is important to keep in mind that no one elementary education degree program will work for every individual as there are different requirements for teachers from state to state.

Future teachers who pursue an associate's degree will find the fastest path into the teaching career field at their fingertips. Most associate's programs take two to three years to complete and provide students with a basic foundation for teaching. In addition to coursework that develops a well-rounded understanding of elementary education, students further develop their own abilities in areas such as:

Writing
Debating
Discussion
Problem-solving
Evaluation

Examples of elementary education degrees available at the associate's level include but are not limited to the following:

Associate of Arts in Elementary Education
Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education

Those who want to earn a greater education from the start, or teachers looking to increase their earning ability or land better jobs can pursue a bachelor's level elementary education degree. This is the most common degree program completed by elementary school teachers. Programs at this level typically last four to five years and students are required to complete courses such as:

Child Development
Models and Theories of Instruction
Legal and Ethical Issues in Education

Bachelor's level programs prepare students to complete the licensure exam in their state that is required before becoming a teacher in any elementary school. Bachelor's programs also require students to complete a student-teaching experience where they get training in the field. Examples of elementary education degrees at this level include:

Bachelor of Science in Education-Elementary Education
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education

The final elementary education degree level pursued by teachers at this level is a master's degree. Few teachers pursue a master's degree without having taught in a school for a few years first. Master's degree programs prepare teachers for positions at elite schools, or in different fields within the elementary education system. Typical coursework in a master's program includes:

Reading Strategies
Educational Psychology
Teaching Methodology
Curriculum Development

Graduates from master's programs often end up working as elementary education consultants, principals, or curriculum developers. Examples of master's degree programs include but are not limited to the following:

Master of Education in Elementary Education
Master of Arts in Education-Elementary Education

Working with children during their most formative years is a joy and a challenge. Earning the proper degree before embarking on such a challenging task is important. Elementary education degree programs are designed to prepare students for all the challenges they will face in guiding children through their early school years.

Secondary Education Teaching Degree

steve — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:29:58 +0000

There may be no single career that is more rewarding than that of a teacher. While fame and fortune do not accompany most teaching positions available around the world, the importance of their role in any society should never be overlooked. Teachers are responsible for shaping the minds of a country's future leaders and as a result their impact on society should never be marginalized. One of the most important teaching positions available is at the secondary education level. When children are in middle school and high schools, grades six through 12, they are going through significant changes both physically and mentally. Teachers working at this level have the chance to have a profound impact on students. Becoming a teacher at this level requires a secondary education degree. Those interested in a career in secondary education will find degrees available at three different levels that will qualify them for employment in middle schools and high schools. Secondary education degrees are available at the following levels:

Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate

The fastest path to the classroom as a secondary teacher is to earn a bachelor's degree. Bachelor's programs take four to five years to complete and include a combination of liberal arts requirements and specialized education courses. The most common degree awarded at this level is the Bachelor of Science in Education. However, secondary school teachers can also earn a degree in their area of specialization such as:

Mathematics
Biology
Chemistry
History

Those who have completed a bachelor's level program are ready for a career in the classroom. Graduates need to complete a state licensing exam before being allowed to teach in a classroom. The requirements for licensure can vary from state to state so it is important to research licensure requirements with your state's Department of Education. Teachers who have been working in the classroom for a few years and want to alter their career course can pursue a master's degree. A graduate level secondary education degree provides multiple career benefits to teachers. One reason that many teachers opt for a master's degree is because it allows them to increase their earning ability and even teach in multiple subjects. A desire to work at a private school, where master's degrees are sometimes required, and interest in administrative positions also leads teachers to earn a master's degree. Master's degree programs most often award individuals with a Master of Science in Education, but individuals can also earn specialized degrees in specific subject areas or even management and business administration. Master's level secondary education degree programs can take anywhere from two to four years of work to complete. For those who have their eyes set on the highest positions within secondary education there are doctorate programs available. There are two secondary education degrees available at the doctorate level and they include:

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)
Doctor of Education (EdD)

The pursuit of a doctoral level degree is for those interested in moving out of the classroom during the course of their career. Graduates from doctorate level programs often land the highest level jobs in secondary education, including positions as principals and superintendents. It is also possible for graduates to work as education and curriculum consultants. Each of these secondary education degrees offers students different courses, but there are typical courses that almost every student will have to complete during the pursuit of their degree. These courses include but are not limited to the following:

Adolescent Psychology
Secondary Teaching Methods
Classroom Assessment
Classroom Management

There are many paths available to become a teacher at the secondary level. The secondary education degree that works best for each individual will be determined by their own career desires and available programs.

Choosing a Teaching Degree

steve — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 18:59:19 +0000

The choice to become a teacher is a difficult one, especially in America. Few professions are so important to the future of society, yet at the same time treated as though they carry little to no importance. When economies struggle and government budgets are strained, educators are often the first to find their jobs on the line. Even during good times, teachers are overlooked for the important role they play in shaping the minds and abilities of the future leaders of our country. Those interested in becoming a teacher will need to complete one of a number of teaching degrees.

Individuals interested in becoming a teacher in elementary, middle, and high schools will need to complete a degree at one of the following levels:

Associate's
Bachelor's
Master's
Doctorate

Those who are considering an associate's degree will find that it takes the least amount of time to complete, but that it also opens up the fewest opportunities. Associate's teaching degrees take roughly two to three years to complete and graduates are best prepared for the following positions in education:

Teacher's Aide
Early Childhood Educator (for example: Preschool Teacher or Childcare Worker)

The most popular teaching degree at the associate's level is the Associate of Arts in Education. There are various specializations available within this field including elementary education and early childhood education. One major downside to associate's programs is the fact that many states do not allow graduates with just an associate's to gain licensure as a teacher. Instead, it is often viewed as a stepping stone to a bachelor's program.

Bachelor's programs are the most popular route for many teachers to take. Teaching degrees at this level can prepare students for a career in the classroom teaching children from ages six all the way to 18. Bachelor's programs take four to five years to complete and are a part of the certification process in many states, making them a requirement for licensure as a teacher. Examples of degrees offered at this level include:

Bachelor of Science in Education
Bachelor of Science in Education - Secondary Education
Bachelor of Science in Education - Elementary Education

There are a number of related fields within a BS program that individuals can pursue to prepare themselves for a specific position within the education system. Examples of specialization include:

Early childhood education
Secondary education
Special education
Administration

Teachers who are looking to advance their career will need to earn a more advanced teaching degree such as those offered at the graduate level. Master's and doctoral level teaching degrees prepare teachers for a variety of new positions within the elementary and secondary education system. There are a wide variety of graduate teaching degrees available; the following are just a few examples:

Master of Science in Education
Master of Education: Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Concentration
Master of Arts in Education in Teaching & Learning
Doctor of Philosophy in Education
Doctor of Education

Graduate level coursework is a requirement for those teachers who want to move into positions of administration, work outside the classroom, or even earn more prestigious, higher paying teaching positions. Master's programs prepare graduates to work as principals at the elementary education level or as school counselors. Doctorate level programs prepare students to work as principals and superintendents within the secondary education system.

Choosing a teaching degree will depend on the career aspirations of the individual. Depending upon the position an individual desires they can be working as a teacher in as little as two years, but a lifetime of education for a teacher can lead them to higher positions within the education system.

LPN (LVN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs

steve — Wed, 18 May 2011 17:03:23 +0000

Licensed Practical Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing Education Program is one in which a person licensed as a Practical Nurse can advance to a RN with a bachelor’s degree.

This program is one that is offered in many states by nursing schools, colleges, and universities as an option that allows the LPN to skip the associate’s degree program of nursing to obtain a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing and eligibility to take the Registered Nurse licensing exam.

The LPN to BSN program is generally 2-4 years in length through traditional on-site courses or online programs with local clinical settings. Online programs are popular for nurses who are working full-time or who have families.

Admissions requirements for programs vary from program to program. Contact the school you are interested in for specific admission information for their LPN to BSN Program. Generally a standardized test is required as well as specific science courses in biology and chemistry. Other courses may also be required as perquisites.

Interested candidates for LPN to BSN programs should check to make sure that the program they choose, if an online or out of state program, is accredited by their state board of nursing.

Program requirements include a battery of science courses including chemistry, biology, pharmacology, anatomy and physiology, and general nursing courses, as well as psychology and human development courses. Students are also required to complete work experiences in a variety of clinical settings in the community.

Upon completion of the LPN to BSN program and successfully completing the nursing exam, the newly graduated RN can work in a variety of settings that require a bachelor’s degree and/or RN license. Graduates may also be eligible for additional nurse management positions.

RNs may also choose to go on to complete a fast track RN to Master’s of Science in Nursing Education Program, RN to MSN Education Program, which can offer the candidate further promotions and opportunities to specialize. A master’s degree is usually required for nurse midwives, family nurse practitioners, nurse anesthesiologists, and clinical nursing instructors.

All About the Doctor of Nursing Education

steve — Wed, 18 May 2011 16:53:44 +0000

While 2.6 million individuals were employed across the United States in 2008 as nurses, this number is far from adequate to meet the ever growing needs of the health care industry. As America's Baby-Boomer generation approaches retirement and their golden years, they place an increasingly heavy burden on the country's health systems. Nursing is the most in demand career field within health care with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating that 560,000 new nurses will be needed by 2018. One of the most in demand positions within nursing revolves around education and research. Earning a Doctor of Nursing Education is a great way to prepare yourself for a high level position within nursing.

The Doctor of Nursing Education degree is designed to prepare current nurses to apply for advanced positions within the health care field, responsible largely for the education of new nurses and conducting advanced research. This PhD level degree is available in traditional on-campus education programs or through various online institutions, and can take anywhere from four to six years to complete.

Those interested in enrolling in a Doctor of Nursing Education program need to meet certain requirements. While the requirements will vary from program to program, but typical requirements include:

GPA over 3.0
Transcripts from master's level education
Completion of Master of Science in Nursing
A current Registered Nurse license

Once enrolled in a program students will face a tough road that will include coursework, research, and a lengthy dissertation at the end. The first two years of the PhD process require students to complete their coursework. Typical PhD courses include but are not limited to the following:

Nursing Science Foundations
Health Care Ethics
Nursing Education
Adult Health Nursing Clinical
Health Care Informatics

Courses will vary from program to program and can also vary depending upon the area of specialization that the student chooses. Students are encouraged to choose a specialization after their first two years of coursework are completed.

Upon graduating from a Doctor of Nursing Education program students will be able to pursue a career in advanced clinical practices, research, or nursing education settings. Examples of careers for PhD graduates include:

Nurse Scientist
Nurse Researcher
Health Policy Analyst
Professor

The nursing career field needs people, and only the best will be accepted into nursing PhD programs. If you have what it takes and want to make an impact in the health care industry, a Doctor of Nursing Education might be right for you!

BSN to PhD : Accelerated Degree Nursing Programs

steve — Wed, 18 May 2011 16:35:42 +0000

As of 2008 there were nearly 2.6 million individuals employed in the nursing field in the United States. In fact, the health care industry is expected to grow by leaps and bounds between now and 2018. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that the industry will need roughly 580,000 new nurses by 2018. With strong growth ahead for the health care industry, earning a degree in a health care related field is a fantastic way of taking advantage of this projected growth. In order to help fill the gaps in nursing across the U.S., nursing schools are now offering accelerated BSN to PhD degree programs.

An accelerated BSN to PhD nursing degree is exactly what it sounds like. These relatively new programs offer students a chance to build upon their bachelor of science in nursing by completing an accelerated program that allows them to complete their master of science in nursing studies and then earn a PhD in nursing. Admissions requirements for these programs typically include:

Professional references
GPA of 3.0 at least (3.5 in some programs)
GRE score of at least 1,000 composite
Entrance essay
Statement of intent for career

These admissions requirements represent the typical prerequisites of most BSN to PhD programs. It is important to note that these requirements can vary from program to program.

Meeting the admissions requirements listed above is very important and students should consider improving their prerequisites before applying if they do not already meet the minimums. With only 50 colleges across the U.S. offering the accelerated BSN to PhD program, enrollment is extremely competitive.

The average BSN to PhD program takes at least four years to complete, with some programs taking slightly longer. Students begin their studies at the master's level by completing courses such as:

Management of Health Systems Care Delivery and Outcomes
Health Care Information Management
Strategic Planning and Management of Health Systems
Health Policy Analysis

Once students have completed their master's level studies they can move onto their PhD requirements. These will vary depending upon the program but often include a mix of coursework and research. Typical courses include:

Logics of Inquiry
Quantitative Designs in Research
Theory Development in Nursing
Advanced Quantitative Designs in Research

When PhD coursework has been completed, many programs will require nursing students to complete a dissertation before bestowing a degree upon the student.

When considering an accelerated BSN to PhD nursing program, students should keep their career goals in mind. These programs are not ideal for those who wish to spend their entire career working at a patient's bedside. Rather, graduates of these programs are prepared for positions in research, teaching, and health care administration.

The nursing field needs qualified experts at every level in the coming years to fill current voids and those expected to open when current nurses retire. Those with a desire to move into research, teaching, or administration would be well served by enrolling in an accelerated BSN to PhD program.

LPN to ADN Degree Options

steve — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:43:42 +0000

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also called Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some areas, are certified nursing professionals trained for one or two years in a classroom and practical setting. In order to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse (RN), an individual must take a series of required coursework such as an associate’s degree program in nursing. Obtaining an associate’s in nursing enables the individual to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Passing the NCLEX is necessary to become a certified Registered Nurse. Many colleges and online universities offer LPN-to Associate’s in Nursing course tracks enabling those currently certified as Licensed Practical Nurses to fulfill coursework necessary for seeking a career as a Registered Nurse. The Registered Nurse certification is considered the nursing industry benchmark and is now required by most hospitals for nursing employment.

The majority of students in associate’s in nursing degree programs ultimately pursue their RN certification. Because LPN-to-Associate’s students are employed as LPNs in either a full- or part-time capacity, online programs can be the ideal fit for students of this type of program. Online coursework offers flexibility in scheduling of classes and study time to fit the students needs. One drawback to this arrangement, however, is that students often experience more individual contact with professors in traditional programs when compared to that experienced by students of online programs.

LPN to associate degree programs typically require between 18 and 36 months to complete. Because these programs are considered “fast track,” course schedules are sometimes condensed to complete the program sooner.

Online associate’s programs can choose to become accredited, meaning that they are reviewed and confirmed to meet a minimum academic standard. Thorough research into any online or distance learning nursing program is necessary. Training in the field of nursing requires hands-on practical experience which may present a challenge for an online program. Prospective students should contact the institution prior to enrolling for specific program details.