According to the U.S. Department of Education, the amount of debt students have when they graduate is on the rise. Total student loan debt has risen to around $18,000 at graduation in recent years. With student loan interest rates set to increase after July 1, 2005, time for students to take advantage of low student loan consolidation rates is running out.
Consolidation allows students to lower monthly loan payment by extending the length of time the students can repay. "The standard payback schedule is ten years, while consolidated loans allow up to a 30 year period of repayment," according to an article in the Johns Hopkins News-Letter.
"Plunging interest rates have made consolidation, as well as other types of personal refinancing, front-page news the past several summers," Spectator staff writer Eleazar David Meléndez reported. "This year, though, a combination of fiscal and policy moves by the federal government almost certainly guarantees that there will be no more chances to take full advantage of this strategy after June."
The current student loan consolidation interest rate is expected to rise from the all-time low of 2.875 percent to as much as 4.25 percent after July 1. Failure to take advantage of these student loan interest rates can mean higher loan payments later. In addition to a hike in student loan interest rates, the federal government is considering legislation that changes federal loan consolidation rules. These proposed changes would eliminate fixed-rate consolidation.
"Since interest rates are on the rise and the fixed rate feature will quite possibly be replaced by variable rate in the next year, this senior class is likely to be the last to be able to convert their variable rate federal Stafford Loans to a fixed rate low interest federal consolidation loan," said David Charlow, Director of Financial Aid and Educational Affairs at Columbia University.
If you are a student with multiple loans or high amounts of federal student loans, consolidation is one of the best ways to help you manage your student loan debt. Take advantage of low interest rates on federal student consolidation loans before the interest rates spike.
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
Monday, August 20, 2007
Education after high school - alternatives to four-year universities
Four-year colleges aren’t right for everyone! In 2000, the U.S. Census Bureau revealed that one out of three college students drop out!
But if you’ve dropped out of college - or decided college wasn’t the right choice for you in the first place - a higher education is still one of the most valuable assets you can have in today’s world. Fortunately, there’s no need to lose hope - a four-year degree isn’t the only kind of education available!
Some students who drop out of four-year universities switch to local colleges, in search of two-year Associate degrees. Two-year degrees can prepare students for a number of entry-level positions, as well as provide a good base if a student decides to go back to college in search of a Bachelor’s degree. They also have the advantage of often being far cheaper, which can be a great help if monetary considerations are one of the reasons a student felt that a four-year university wasn’t right for them!
In addition to local community colleges, career colleges can also be a good choice for students looking to further their education. With career colleges, students receive a very targeted education, specific to their wants and goals. Programs are usually completed in a far faster time than a four-year university and consist of very practical education, which makes a career college great option for someone who wants to move right into the workforce.
If a four-year college isn’t the best choice for you, learn more about your alternatives! Don’t let money discourage you - financial aid is often available. Many programs are also flexible enough to work around your work schedule or family responsibilities, and the rewards for your efforts are well worth it. No matter what option you go with - education is the best way to achieve future success.
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
MBA graduates in high demand again
The more education you have, the higher your earning potential will be, according to a report released by the U.S. Census Bureau. This has certainly proven true for MBA graduates. After experiencing a dip in hiring numbers in recent years, the MBA is back in demand, with higher salaries to boot.
Earning an MBA can mean a difference of as much as $2.5 million over the course of a lifetime, compared to those without an advanced degree. With more employers seeking qualified MBA graduates, now is a good time to enroll in an accredited MBA Degree program.
Consider that the average MBA candidate has trimmed the number of applications down from 39 last year to just 17 this year. At the same time, the number of job offers has doubled, according to a July 2005 survey released by recruiting consultant WetFeet.
“The best indicator is seeing the students’ confidence level at getting attractive, interesting jobs,” said Andy Chan, Director of the Stanford University Graduate School of Business MBA Career Management Center, in USA Today. “They have good feelings there will be a positive outcome at the end of their job search.
There is also the increase in salary to consider. WetFeet forecasts this year’s MBA graduates will earn slightly more than the $106,587 average base pay and bonus of last year’s class. With salaries on the rise and more job offers for MBA graduates, going back to school to earn an MBA makes sense.
Research your MBA Degree program options now to find the best MBA school for you. There are both online MBA Degree programs and traditional MBA schools to consider. Search for the right MBA program now!
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
Earning an MBA can mean a difference of as much as $2.5 million over the course of a lifetime, compared to those without an advanced degree. With more employers seeking qualified MBA graduates, now is a good time to enroll in an accredited MBA Degree program.
Consider that the average MBA candidate has trimmed the number of applications down from 39 last year to just 17 this year. At the same time, the number of job offers has doubled, according to a July 2005 survey released by recruiting consultant WetFeet.
“The best indicator is seeing the students’ confidence level at getting attractive, interesting jobs,” said Andy Chan, Director of the Stanford University Graduate School of Business MBA Career Management Center, in USA Today. “They have good feelings there will be a positive outcome at the end of their job search.
There is also the increase in salary to consider. WetFeet forecasts this year’s MBA graduates will earn slightly more than the $106,587 average base pay and bonus of last year’s class. With salaries on the rise and more job offers for MBA graduates, going back to school to earn an MBA makes sense.
Research your MBA Degree program options now to find the best MBA school for you. There are both online MBA Degree programs and traditional MBA schools to consider. Search for the right MBA program now!
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
Going High-Tech
Going back to school is a serious decision to make – we know that it requires time, money and, most of all, a real commitment to education. Because of that, it’s important to choose a school where you can get the greatest benefit.
There are a lot of choices out there, but one that stands apart is High-Tech Institute. Taking a few moments to meet the instructors before enrolling in school can give you a real sense of how much they care and how proud they are of their students’ successes. Warm, encouraging and knowledgeable become a perfect combination and makes our teachers valued by students and other faculty alike.
High-Tech Institute also tries to find students who are sincerely interested in working hard in order to achieve their goals. This creates a wonderfully positive atmosphere with lively discussions and great interaction on any group projects.
Finally, High-Tech Institute offers so many options that can make your learning experience rich and rewarding. Access to computer laboratories outside of regular class hours, academic tutoring, special events, picnics and contests are just some of the benefits that set High-Tech Institute apart. Not only that, you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in community service events such as blood drives and health fairs.
So we hope that you’re considering High-Tech Institute for your future education. But the absolute best way to find out if High-Tech Institute is the right choice for you is to contact an admissions representative. You won’t be disappointed!
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
There are a lot of choices out there, but one that stands apart is High-Tech Institute. Taking a few moments to meet the instructors before enrolling in school can give you a real sense of how much they care and how proud they are of their students’ successes. Warm, encouraging and knowledgeable become a perfect combination and makes our teachers valued by students and other faculty alike.
High-Tech Institute also tries to find students who are sincerely interested in working hard in order to achieve their goals. This creates a wonderfully positive atmosphere with lively discussions and great interaction on any group projects.
Finally, High-Tech Institute offers so many options that can make your learning experience rich and rewarding. Access to computer laboratories outside of regular class hours, academic tutoring, special events, picnics and contests are just some of the benefits that set High-Tech Institute apart. Not only that, you’ll also have the opportunity to take part in community service events such as blood drives and health fairs.
So we hope that you’re considering High-Tech Institute for your future education. But the absolute best way to find out if High-Tech Institute is the right choice for you is to contact an admissions representative. You won’t be disappointed!
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
Mythbusting University of Phoenix
You see the advertisements for University of Phoenix – Online everywhere, but what is the school really about? Ever since the for-profit school made the early decision to organize an online learning program in a successful effort to propel its growth and widen its outreach to students, they have come up against many myths and stereotypes.
Some people think that online learning is inferior to classroom learning, that the University is little more than a diploma mill or that graduating with a degree from University of Phoenix won’t get you anywhere. In truth, however, according to student surveys, there is very high satisfaction among students who have earned an online degree from University of Phoenix.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about online learning:
Myth: Earning an online degree is easier than earning a degree in the classroom.
Many students find that the course material taught online is relevant and on track with the work their peers are completing in their educations at traditional institutions. The coursework for some classes will be more difficult than others, and you may come across some professors that you can communicate with better than others.
Because online learning requires an incredible amount of discipline and independence, some students may even find getting an online degree more difficult.
Myth: Online learning offers little personal attention and no communication with other students.
This is not the case. Most classes at University of Phoenix enroll no more than 15 students, which is much more personal than at a traditional university.
You can sign onto classes anytime during the day and participate in class discussions through forums or ask questions that your professors will respond to as soon as they can. Assignment due dates do go by the professor’s time, so if the professor is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone, your assignment will due in EST, which can take some adjusting. This can also be a challenge when you complete schoolwork with a classmate (which happens often). Professors usually try to pair students who are in similar time zones, but this is not always possible, so you must communicate regularly and be willing to work around your classmates’ schedules!
Many students find the tech support and counselors at University of Phoenix to be excellent. They often call and e-mail regularly and are extremely willing to help with any questions or concerns.
Myth: An online degree isn’t as respectable as a traditional degree.
While this may have once been the truth, online degrees are gaining prestige around the world. Established in 1989, University of Phoenix was the first accredited online university. Today, the University boasts over 57,000 enrollments, making it the largest accredited, for-profit online university in the United States.
University of Phoenix provides a respectable outlet for working adults to earn a higher education. Like many other things, you will only get as much out of your online education as you put into it, so if you take advantage of the resources provided, you can get a valuable education that employers will respect.
However, online education at University of Phoenix may not be for everyone. First-time college students with no family responsibilities and no full-time jobs may feel the desire to leave home, become independent, attend school with peers and learn how to manage their own lives.
Myth: The credits you earn online won’t transfer to traditional colleges.
A growing number of colleges and universities do accept transfer credits from University of Phoenix – Online! Still, it’s always a good idea to do some research before you enroll in a program. Check with your state and any educational institution you might want to enroll in later to make sure that credits and certifications will transfer.
Myth: Employers won’t take an online degree seriously.
A large percentage of alumnae from University of Phoenix – Online have seen an increase in their marketability. They have been able to secure jobs that they desired or have received promotions in their present jobs.
Plus, many University of Phoenix – Online faculty members are executives at reputed companies when they are not mentoring students in the classrooms, lending even more credibility to their instruction!
Myth: You must be a computer genius to earn an online degree.
The first course required of University of Phoenix – Online students is actually a course that teaches you how to be a successful online student. It can teach you how to search the databases, how to use the UoP online library, how to work in a learning team, how to use APA writing style and more. Additionally, this first course is often waived and free of charge! Even if not, there are often coupons for it.
The majority of classes are offered in Outlook Express, which most users find very easy to set up and use.
Myth: You’ll never set foot on a college campus.
While concentrated time spent on a college campus can be a great way to learn, the advent of technology has made physical presence unnecessary! In fact, because attending class is not possible for every student, University of Phoenix is one of the best options available. We can provide the flexibility of time and place while you receive a quality education. Additionally, online learning can be a great option for students with disabilities.
Plus, you don’t have to feel like you aren’t a part of a college environment – University of Phoenix has over 70 campus locations across the country! As a University of Phoenix – Online graduate, you are invited to participate in the graduation ceremony at the campus most convenient for you.
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
Some people think that online learning is inferior to classroom learning, that the University is little more than a diploma mill or that graduating with a degree from University of Phoenix won’t get you anywhere. In truth, however, according to student surveys, there is very high satisfaction among students who have earned an online degree from University of Phoenix.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths about online learning:
Myth: Earning an online degree is easier than earning a degree in the classroom.
Many students find that the course material taught online is relevant and on track with the work their peers are completing in their educations at traditional institutions. The coursework for some classes will be more difficult than others, and you may come across some professors that you can communicate with better than others.
Because online learning requires an incredible amount of discipline and independence, some students may even find getting an online degree more difficult.
Myth: Online learning offers little personal attention and no communication with other students.
This is not the case. Most classes at University of Phoenix enroll no more than 15 students, which is much more personal than at a traditional university.
You can sign onto classes anytime during the day and participate in class discussions through forums or ask questions that your professors will respond to as soon as they can. Assignment due dates do go by the professor’s time, so if the professor is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone, your assignment will due in EST, which can take some adjusting. This can also be a challenge when you complete schoolwork with a classmate (which happens often). Professors usually try to pair students who are in similar time zones, but this is not always possible, so you must communicate regularly and be willing to work around your classmates’ schedules!
Many students find the tech support and counselors at University of Phoenix to be excellent. They often call and e-mail regularly and are extremely willing to help with any questions or concerns.
Myth: An online degree isn’t as respectable as a traditional degree.
While this may have once been the truth, online degrees are gaining prestige around the world. Established in 1989, University of Phoenix was the first accredited online university. Today, the University boasts over 57,000 enrollments, making it the largest accredited, for-profit online university in the United States.
University of Phoenix provides a respectable outlet for working adults to earn a higher education. Like many other things, you will only get as much out of your online education as you put into it, so if you take advantage of the resources provided, you can get a valuable education that employers will respect.
However, online education at University of Phoenix may not be for everyone. First-time college students with no family responsibilities and no full-time jobs may feel the desire to leave home, become independent, attend school with peers and learn how to manage their own lives.
Myth: The credits you earn online won’t transfer to traditional colleges.
A growing number of colleges and universities do accept transfer credits from University of Phoenix – Online! Still, it’s always a good idea to do some research before you enroll in a program. Check with your state and any educational institution you might want to enroll in later to make sure that credits and certifications will transfer.
Myth: Employers won’t take an online degree seriously.
A large percentage of alumnae from University of Phoenix – Online have seen an increase in their marketability. They have been able to secure jobs that they desired or have received promotions in their present jobs.
Plus, many University of Phoenix – Online faculty members are executives at reputed companies when they are not mentoring students in the classrooms, lending even more credibility to their instruction!
Myth: You must be a computer genius to earn an online degree.
The first course required of University of Phoenix – Online students is actually a course that teaches you how to be a successful online student. It can teach you how to search the databases, how to use the UoP online library, how to work in a learning team, how to use APA writing style and more. Additionally, this first course is often waived and free of charge! Even if not, there are often coupons for it.
The majority of classes are offered in Outlook Express, which most users find very easy to set up and use.
Myth: You’ll never set foot on a college campus.
While concentrated time spent on a college campus can be a great way to learn, the advent of technology has made physical presence unnecessary! In fact, because attending class is not possible for every student, University of Phoenix is one of the best options available. We can provide the flexibility of time and place while you receive a quality education. Additionally, online learning can be a great option for students with disabilities.
Plus, you don’t have to feel like you aren’t a part of a college environment – University of Phoenix has over 70 campus locations across the country! As a University of Phoenix – Online graduate, you are invited to participate in the graduation ceremony at the campus most convenient for you.
http://news.search4careercolleges.com/index.php
Earning a Degree to Advance Your Software Development Career
Benefits of an Advanced Degree in Software Development
A master's degree in software development or an IT-related field is one of the best ways to advance your already-budding career. The skills you will acquire in a software or web development graduate program will increase your value as an employee and prepare you for more challenging roles.
What Does an IT Master's Degree Prepare You For?
A master's degree will help you learn to design and develop:
* Complex network systems to maximize performance.
* Hardware components or ways to improve existing networks.
* Software communication procedures for efficient data processing.
* Operating systems that can work effectively across large networks.
Manage:
* Daily operation, maintenance, reliability, and security of large networks.
* Future networks. You will focus on network growth planning and your foresight will be required to ensure the network is able to meet future provisions.
Implement:
* New network software that will reduce downtime and enhance reliability
* Real-time software systems and understand the complexities involved.
Compensation
You can expect a substantial salary increase with an advanced IT, software or web development degree. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, in 2005, the starting salary for those with bachelor's degrees in computer engineering averaged around $52,000. By contrast, those with master's degrees in the field averaged around $60,000 in the same year. The starting salaries for software development engineers in 2005 averaged even higher; from between $63,000 to nearly $93,000.
As information assurance and IT security issues are on the rise, employers are looking for individuals with advanced skills in computer networks and software. Get a master's in software or web development and find yourself in high demand.
http://www.developers.net/quinstreetshowcase/view/2376
A master's degree in software development or an IT-related field is one of the best ways to advance your already-budding career. The skills you will acquire in a software or web development graduate program will increase your value as an employee and prepare you for more challenging roles.
What Does an IT Master's Degree Prepare You For?
A master's degree will help you learn to design and develop:
* Complex network systems to maximize performance.
* Hardware components or ways to improve existing networks.
* Software communication procedures for efficient data processing.
* Operating systems that can work effectively across large networks.
Manage:
* Daily operation, maintenance, reliability, and security of large networks.
* Future networks. You will focus on network growth planning and your foresight will be required to ensure the network is able to meet future provisions.
Implement:
* New network software that will reduce downtime and enhance reliability
* Real-time software systems and understand the complexities involved.
Compensation
You can expect a substantial salary increase with an advanced IT, software or web development degree. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, in 2005, the starting salary for those with bachelor's degrees in computer engineering averaged around $52,000. By contrast, those with master's degrees in the field averaged around $60,000 in the same year. The starting salaries for software development engineers in 2005 averaged even higher; from between $63,000 to nearly $93,000.
As information assurance and IT security issues are on the rise, employers are looking for individuals with advanced skills in computer networks and software. Get a master's in software or web development and find yourself in high demand.
http://www.developers.net/quinstreetshowcase/view/2376
The Benefit of Improving Your Career with an MBA with a Specialty in IT
Reasons for Choosing MBA as a Career: An MBA degree with a specialty in IT prepares you for information management positions in a variety of industries. The IT MBA program couples the career-oriented focus of a traditional MBA program with a rigorous technology management curriculum. This advanced degree cross-trains you in the world of business and IT, expanding your knowledge in both areas.
MBA in IT
MBA in IT
An MBA degree with a specialty in IT prepares you for information management positions in a variety of industries. The IT MBA program couples the career-oriented focus of a traditional MBA program with a rigorous technology management curriculum. This advanced degree cross-trains you in the world of business and IT, expanding your knowledge in both areas.
With an MBA with a specialty in IT you will learn how to:
- Efficiently manage technology-driven projects
- Strategically implement e-commerce
- Use information technologies and communication systems to solve business problems.
- Integrate technology into the strategic objectives of an organization to make it successful
- Effectively assess and evaluate technology
- Develop methods for transferring and assimilating new technology
- Manage large project, programs, and network systems
- Use marketing as an instrument for technological change
- Electronic commerce
- Finance
- Information Security
- Information Systems Management
- Network and Communications Management
- Project Management
- Security Management
With the ever-evolving world of IT and business, these specialized degrees are consistently updated to grow with the latest trends. The degrees also ensure real-world relevance in today's global marketplace. Get your IT MBA and you'll have the specific knowledge and skills you'll need to excel in the modern business world. Master the specialized expertise necessary for an executive career with two focuses: Business and IT.
http://www.developers.net/quinstreetshowcase/view/2377
The Future of Careers within the Software Development World
As the use of computers and computer networking continues to skyrocket, the demand for software developers is expecting to explode also. As organizations adopt and incorporate new technology into their businesses, software developers and those with IT degrees will be needed to implement the changes.
An Explosion of Career Opportunities in Software Development Rapidly expanding technologies are increasing the demand for those with IT or software development degrees. Why is a software development career so lucrative?
* Companies will continue to compete to create innovative and sophisticated software technology
* More business is conducted on the Internet-and IT savvy individuals are needed to develop Internet, intranet, and World Wide Web applications
* Electronic data-processing systems in business, telecommunications, and government are more sophisticated and complex
* Individuals and businesses rely more on hand-held computers and wireless networks. It is necessary to integrate current computer systems with this new, mobile technology.
* Information security concerns have given rise to new software needs. Cyber-security concerns results in businesses and the government investing in software that protects their networks and vital infrastructures from cyber attacks.
The expansion of this technology in the next 10 years will lead to an increased need for computer engineers to design and develop the software and systems to run these new applications and integrate them into older systems. A career in IT requires innovation and intense research and development. Employers will continue to seek computer professionals with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal, and business skills.
Get your degree in an IT-related or software development field and you'll find that there are many opportunities open to you.
http://www.developers.net/quinstreetshowcase/view/2378
An Explosion of Career Opportunities in Software Development Rapidly expanding technologies are increasing the demand for those with IT or software development degrees. Why is a software development career so lucrative?
* Companies will continue to compete to create innovative and sophisticated software technology
* More business is conducted on the Internet-and IT savvy individuals are needed to develop Internet, intranet, and World Wide Web applications
* Electronic data-processing systems in business, telecommunications, and government are more sophisticated and complex
* Individuals and businesses rely more on hand-held computers and wireless networks. It is necessary to integrate current computer systems with this new, mobile technology.
* Information security concerns have given rise to new software needs. Cyber-security concerns results in businesses and the government investing in software that protects their networks and vital infrastructures from cyber attacks.
The expansion of this technology in the next 10 years will lead to an increased need for computer engineers to design and develop the software and systems to run these new applications and integrate them into older systems. A career in IT requires innovation and intense research and development. Employers will continue to seek computer professionals with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal, and business skills.
Get your degree in an IT-related or software development field and you'll find that there are many opportunities open to you.
http://www.developers.net/quinstreetshowcase/view/2378
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