DENVER (AP) — Your days already are jammed with work, family, housework and community events. Is there really room for school?

It isn’t easy to juggle a job, a family and school; it requires passion, determination and a lot of organization. Here are some practical tips from workplace management experts to help you decide whether you can add course work to your schedule.

THE DECISION

A self-appraisal is a good place to start when making a difficult decision that affects not only you but your family and friends.

Jot down your daily activities and look at how much time you spend on work, with family, and on social, spiritual and self-care activities, suggests workplace trainer Bev Rosen of Motivating Wellness at Work in Lutherville, Md.

Can you shuffle some priorities to make room for classes?

Susan Tzankow, 45, of Arvada in suburban Denver had a wedding cake decorating business but wanted to pursue her passion of helping people with addictions.

She went back to school to get a degree in the field after her youngest son started first grade. Tzankow and her husband, Alex, agreed she needed to get a different job that would pay for her education.

She found a full-time office manager job and after three years, she earned a degree in human services this month from Metropolitan State College.

Tzankow and her husband traded off helping their sons, Lukas, now 9, and Jacob, now 18, with homework. Alex took them out for weekend activities so she could do her classwork. They also have a group of neighbors who pitched in when necessary.

Her children helped, too, Tzankow said, acknowledging that Lukas has become more self-sufficient and can make eggs, macaroni and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches.

It was difficult; she has been stressed, lost sleep and felt guilty about missing her son’s basketball games and family activities. There were many days when she thought about quitting. ”It’s really been about school, about work and trying to be the best mom,” she said.

FAMILY TIME

Once you’ve decided to take classes, then it’s time for a family chat.

Gather your children and your spouse so you can explain why you want to take classes. If you have young children, tell them that it will make you happy, much like they enjoy activities like soccer or learning a musical instrument.

Caution them that you may not be available as much as you have been, and they will have to help out more with household tasks.

”Being clear up front with your family, on how it’s going to affect everyone in the house, is important so everyone buys in in advance,” says Tory Johnson, chief executive officer of New York-based Women for Hire consulting firm.

SELLING THE BOSS

When you chat with your boss, or a prospective boss, about going back to school, focus on what the impact will be on the company rather than opportunities for yourself. This is particularly important amid the difficult economy, workplace coaches say.

”I think you always have to kind of recognize that a manager, a business owner could be truly fighting for survival, which includes saving your job,” Johnson said.

If the classes you want to take involve career skills, it will be easier for the boss to agree and perhaps even offer to pay some of the cost.

For example, a human resources or office manager who deals with workplace conflicts may want some additional training, such as a class in critical leadership or management skills.

The manager should explain the class will help the office as a whole and likely will benefit work with clients, Johnson said.

It also is important to explain how you will make up for the disruption in your work duties, such as coming in earlier than normal or staying late. You can offer to be available by e-mail or cell phone while you are absent.

If your job duties involve answering phones, see if a coworker can cover while you’re away.

If the class is unrelated to your job, such as pottery or another interest, explain to the boss that it’s important because it will add more balance to your life, which will improve your work productivity, says workplace trainer Rosen.

Tzankow told her boss when she interviewed for the job that she was going back to school and, with his support, she worked around her class schedule by doing tasks earlier or later in the day as needed.

ORGANIZATION

It’s a good idea to start slowly when you return to school, with just one or two classes so you can adjust to the schedule.

Get a planner so you can keep track of work duties, class work, family obligations and other activities. Prioritize tasks under headings such as must do, should do and can wait.

Line up a support network: find a trusted family member or neighbor who is able to take a child who misses the bus to school, drop off a forgotten lunch or homework or watch your child after school.

Do homework with your children and learn to delegate tasks such as loading dishwashers, vacuuming or mowing the lawn.

Hurraina Eanes, 45, has a full-time job in human resources and cares for her grandfather, James Washington, 85, in her Baltimore, Md., home. After some self-reflection, she began pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biblical studies.

With three years of study left, Eanes has set up a schedule to handle all her activities. She keeps a planner with her work and class tasks as well as her grandfather’s appointments.

Eanes’ father comes in the morning to help her grandfather before work while her mother spends some time with him during the day when Eanes is at work. On nights when she is at school, her parents stay with him.

Her manager has been supportive, too, by allowing her to be flexible in her work hours. ”I certainly make the time up,” Eanes said.

Q: I have a BA in marketing, and I’m making good money. The frustration? The people I work with are making about the same amount with no degrees and less experience. I have been thinking about getting an MBA, but I’m unsure if this is the right thing to do since my BA has not really gotten me anywhere. What do you suggest?

NICK’S REPLY: A good education is valuable for many reasons, and it can enhance a career dramatically. But don’t expect that having a certain degree is going to guarantee you a better salary or a better career. The problem is that the education industry (make no mistake, it is an industry) goes to great lengths to market its product, and people swallow the bait.

I believe more education is a good thing. Generally speaking, people with college degrees earn more than those without them. Your BA has likely helped your career. But I really get bugged when schools and the media tout “the relationship” between degrees and income. Depending on the person and the situation, it’s not always clear. I suggest you consider other factors that may be holding you back.

But let’s answer your question. Before you pursue another degree, find out what it’s worth to the employers you’re targeting. Select the industry, company and job you want. Then go talk to the relevant employers and people who do the work you want to do. Ask them what sort of education is necessary, sufficient and useful. Ask them what credentials really matter to them. What will pay off best? (Popular business magazines regularly run surveys listing the MBA programs that deliver the most bang for the buck. Big deal. What they fail to discuss is all the other ways talented people can do well.)

If you’re getting a degree to get ahead rather than just because you want to learn for learning’s sake (which is wonderful), the ultimate customer of all those schools isn’t you — it’s the employer you go to work for. So ask what degree the employer will pay for.

THE HEADHUNTER TIP:

Does “company plus you” equal “profit”?

Don’t let a job interview turn into a rote Q&A session about routine interview topics. Make it a working meeting where you and the hiring manager roll up your sleeves and discuss how to make the department more successful and the company more profitable.

– Create a business plan for the job you want. Outline the objectives of the job in terms of profit. How will you help increase efficiency? Lower costs? Speed up production cycles?

– Show how you will pull it off. Be prepared to present a five-minute plan. If you can’t demonstrate your ability to deliver profit, you simply don’t deserve the job.

– Confirm that you fit into the rest of the team. Volunteer to attend a project meeting as a guest. If you show you can participate profitably, you won’t have to answer “the top 10 silly interview questions.”

Computer Careers

Career opportunities for individuals with Information Technology (IT) Degrees are predicted to rise at an alarming rate over the next decade. As a graduate who has earned an Associate’s Degree in Computer Technology and Networking or a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, you will be well equipped to enter the cutting edge field of computer based technology in a variety of fields.

Some of the careers or fields of specialized study available to those who pursue a college degree in computers include the following:

Computer Career Opportunities

• Computer Software Engineer
• Computer Systems Analysis
• Computer Database Administrator
• Software Design
• Computer Support Specialist
• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Computer Programming and Analysis
• IT Analysis and Support
• Computer and Information Systems Management
• IT Database and Security
• Network Analysis and Engineering

Information technology is growing at an alarming rate, without an end in sight. Computers and information has become a part of our society and with that convenience comes a host of career opportunities for those who have earned a college degree in computers.

• Network Engineers are needed to design and implement computer networks. These specialists set up, test, and analyze systems for the purpose of data communication. Properly educated network engineers can work in a variety of industries, or for themselves, setting up connections and data systems that span between business offices or across the globe. Network engineers are also valuable in the planning stages of corporations, as they are used to plan out entire networks, including installation and configuration of drivers, routers, wireless adaptors, and information security systems. Network engineers are an integral part of any business and these positions will continue to be in high demand in every area, ranging from major corporations to small businesses and government organizations.

• Systems Administrators maintain computer systems and ensure that a business’s computers, networking capabilities, software, and security are all working as efficiently as possible. Systems administrators learn troubleshooting skills, monitor systems, and plan upgrades to keep businesses running smoothly.

• Database Administrators are responsible for the proper and legal organization and storage of critical company data. They also coordinate, upgrade, and modify data retrieval and storage systems to keep companies up to legal standards. Since many databases are connected online, these administrators also plan and implement security systems to protect the integrity of data storage.

• Computer Security Specialists are in high demand. With a college degree in computers and a specialized certification in security, these specialists maintain a corporation or organization’s information and database security. They are responsible for installing security software, analyzing the effectiveness of security systems and addressing any possible breaches in network security. Computer security specialists are trained to respond to cyber attacks by gathering data and evidence that can be used to prosecute cyber crime.

• Web Developers / Webmasters are responsible for the technical side of web creation. Working with CSS or HTML, these developers produce or oversee the production and creation of corporate or business websites. Web developers determine the client’s needs and are responsible for every aspect of web creation and maintenance. Issues that web developers address include software and site upgrades, page loading speed, traffic and web activity, and monitoring. An individual who combines graphic design training with a college degree in computer web development can build and maintain a site from start to finish. This particular field is expected to experience phenomenal growth in the coming years.

If you are tech savvy and interested in a rewarding and financially satisfying career in the ever-growing field of computers, a college degree is your first step in the right direction.

For more information on schools and training that will jump start you into a new and exciting career, check out College Courses Advisor. There’s no time like the present to earn your college degree and begin your computer career.



Cosmetology and Wellness Careers

Choice of Programs…Are you ready for a Cosmetology Career?

Cosmetology And Wellness Careers Are Growing Rapidly…

If you are interested in a career as a Cosmetologist or any of the related wellness careers, you’ve come to the right place.

The field of cosmetology is growing at a rapid pace and with the proper education and training, a world of opportunities can be open to you. A list of the possible careers includes the following:

Career Opportunities in Cosmetology and Wellness

• Cosmetologist
• Massage Therapist
• Nail Technician
• Physical or Personal Trainer
• Diet Counselor
• Small Business Owner
• Spa Manager

The health, beauty and wellness industry is continuing to grow at a rapid rate. For licensed individuals who have earned their college degree or technical training in this field, there are numerous fields and career opportunities available.

Cosmetologists are licensed specialists who can either find employment with spas or established salons. If you decide to earn a college degree in business management you will be well equipped to open your own spa or salon and you’ll have the satisfaction of business ownership in a career and field that you enjoy. Earning potential for educated and talented cosmetologists are endless, especially if you establish yourself in a high-end salon or spa. Cosmetologists who work independently can expect the highest financial success, and those who enter into specialized fields (such as those who work exclusively with wedding planners or photographers) can expect annual earnings of up to $80,000 or more.

Massage Therapists can work independently or find lucrative employment with spas, hospitals, or therapy centers. Massage therapists who work hand-in-hand with the medical community can find employment with sports teams, rehabilitation patients, or become small business owners.

Nail Technicians are licensed professionals who work with nails almost as an art form. Once reserved for special occasions or monthly manicures, nails have become big business as it has become increasingly common for women to visit their nail technician on a regular basis for acrylic nails and pedicures.

Physical or Personal Trainers with a college degree in health and nutrition can work independently or find employment in a variety of locations, including gyms, sports centers, or for groups of individuals. Physical or personal trainers serve to motivate and push their clients toward their fitness and health goals and use their education to ensure that they are doing so in a safe and physically healthy manner. Trainers are also responsible for teaching others how to exercise and handle physical fitness equipment in a safe yet effective manner.

Diet Counselors can be found in spas, wellness centers, government institutions, hospitals, and also work independently. With a college degree in health and nutrition, diet counselors can help individuals or groups to reach and maintain their ideal weight, while also teaching proper nutrition and optimum health. As more individuals are becoming health conscious and aware of the ill effects of improper eating habits and a lethargic lifestyle, the demand for diet counselors will continue to grow.

The above are just a few examples of the many opportunities for those who pursue an education or college degree in cosmetology or health and wellness.

If one of these careers interests you, there is no time like the present to follow your dreams and start your technical training or college education. In less than one year you can be operating as a licensed professional in the field of cosmetology or even running your own salon.

Find out more about cosmetology and wellness careers by using our career and degree tools.

Accounting and Finance Degrees

If you have a way with numbers and are looking to pursue a career in accounting and finance, online college courses or traditional, campus-based classes can help you to reach your goals and secure a rewarding career in the field of finance.

When you think of financial careers, an accountant or CPA may be the first thing that comes to mind. To become an accountant, you’ll need to earn your Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. An Associate Degree is enough to get your foot in the door, but only in the position of an accounting clerk. By choosing a Bachelor’s Degree, you’ll not only have more job opportunities, but your salary will increase substantially as well.

Although a career as an accountant can be quite rewarding, that’s not the only career choice open to you. With the right education, here are some other careers in accounting and finance that will be open to you:

Career Opportunities in Accounting and Finance

• Actuary – An actuary has the responsibility of evaluating the probable occurrence of events to help employers or corporate firms minimize costs that could be incurred as a direct result of these incidences or events. You’ll need to earn your Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in statistics and actuarial science. An actuary can expect to enjoy a yearly salary of $85,000 or more.

• Assessor – An assessor provides estimates of real property values for tax purposes. Degree requirements vary from state to state. Median income for an assessor is $48,000.

• Financial Advisor – Financial planners and advisors assist individuals and businesses with reaching their financial goals through investments, 401(k) plans, and other options. You’ll need a Bachelor’s Degree to break into this highly competitive field, and also the ability to express yourself well to others. Financial advisors can expect to earn an annual salary of $69,000 or more.

• Financial Examiner – Financial examiners keep banks and other financial institutions in compliance with governing laws and regulations. You’ll need a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting to qualify for this career. The average annual income is over $70,000.

• Loan Officer – As a loan officer, you’ll help businesses and private individuals obtain funding from banks or other institutions. You’ll need a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance to qualify for this career. Sometimes a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics will get you there as well. Loan officers can expect to earn about $55,000 average annual income.

These are just a few of the career opportunities that will be available to you, once you’ve earned your college degree.

Online College Courses…Easy and Convenient

The easiest and most convenient method of earning your college degree today is through online college courses. Designed for the working adult with a busy schedule, most campuses have a variety of tracks to earn your degree through their distance learning programs.

Accredited colleges that offer online college courses also accept student loans and government grants, which makes it easier than ever to reach the level of education you desire and enter into a new and exciting career. Think of it this way; time is going to pass anyway. Wouldn’t you rather have a college degree under your belt in a couple of years instead of toiling away at the same dead end job you have now? There’s no time like the present to earn your degree in accounting and finance, and there’s no simpler way than through online college courses!

Is A Career in Technology a Smart Choice?

Technology Is The Future…

With the speed of technological advancements, technology reaches to every industry and career. A term used rather broadly, the actual word ‘technology’ as it relates to business involves the study, development and application of devices or techniques used in a practical sense. For instance, ‘laser technology’ may be used in the health care industry, while ‘information technology’ is used in computer databases.

If you are already employed and looking for advancement opportunities, online college courses in technology that is specific to your industry can put you on the path to a bright future with almost endless opportunities.

Here is a list of some of the possible paths you could take by pursuing an online college degree in technology in your particular field of interest:

Careers in Computer Technology:

• Computer Support Specialists – Provide tech support and assistance to businesses and other end users to analyze problems, troubleshoot, and train individuals, often through remote methods.
• Software Engineers – Develop, design, test, and improve software programs for businesses or for mass retail production.
• Network Security Specialists – Responsible to update and maintain certain levels of security in businesses, corporations, and industries to keep information, databases, and computers safe from outside intrusion.
• Web Design – Writes computer code to develop websites, online businesses, online catalogs, social networking sites, and industry specific websites according to the client’s specific web presence needs.

Careers in Healthcare Technology:

• Biomedical Equipment Technicians – Develop, test, and repair equipment such as radiology equipment, patient monitoring devices, and other medical devices to assist in the advancement of medically related equipment.

Careers in Electronic & Engineering Technology:

• Engineering Technicians – Design, develop and troubleshoot electrical equipment. Careers may include product evaluation, electronic repairs or installations.
• Field Service Technicians – Responsibilities include installation and troubleshooting of service equipment.
• Engineering Specialists – Design and improve machinery and systems particular to a specific industry, such as medical equipment, surveying equipment, production plants, utility providers, and more.
• Electronic Technicians – Careers can range from working with electronic equipment in business or production plants to troubleshooting and development strategies for power grids.

The career opportunities available to those who further their education by earning a college degree in technology are innumerable. Your first step to career success is to make the decision to invest in yourself and commit to either traditional or online college courses.

For a career in technology, depending on the industry you want to pursue, you can either choose to earn your Bachelor’s Degree or take faster paced courses where you can earn an industry specific certificate, such as in web design, or information technology. Online college courses are available for both the traditional degree program or the faster paced certificate training.

Online college courses are ideal for those who are already employed and need a flexible schedule that will allow the student to study during hours they are available. If online college courses sound like the perfect fit for you, check the rest of our website to find the school that fits your budget as well as your educational needs in the field of technology.

Earning Your Social Science Degree…

Before deciding on the college courses you’re going to take, you’ll need to first take a look at the career options that will be available to you upon completing your college degree. Many students make the mistake of taking a variety of courses until they ‘decide’ on a career path. Whether you are taking online college courses or attending on campus, traditional classes, this often leads to a nice chunk of wasted time.

If you are interested in earning a Social Science degree, let’s take a look at the fastest growing and most promising career paths you can take by earning your college degree:

Career Options With a Social Science Degree

When you think of a college degree in Social Science, you may automatically think of social work, counselors and careers of that nature. Yes, this is a path you can take, but there are many other options available as well. The common thread that runs through Social Science, is of course, the social element, which involves the study of people, in a variety of ways.

• Sociologist: Generally, sociologists are employed for the government. They often help lawmakers and criminologists by studying the behavior of certain people groups. With that knowledge sociologists can assist in the development of political policies or work in government think tanks. Sociologists average earnings: $62,000

• Anthropologist: A career in anthropology involves studying human behavior as it relates to social and cultural changes and developments. Although the classic stereotype of an anthropologist involves archaeological digs and traveling to remote tribal villages, many anthropologists study modern societies, comparing urban life to rural, and different people groups. Job opportunities are often found with the government or in the field of education. Anthropologists average earnings: $49,000.

• Police Officer / FBI – An option not always thought of in with a college degree in Social Science is a career with the police force. Although many individuals enter the police force with the minimum requirement of a high school degree, you’ll need more than that if you want to pursue additional advancement opportunities. By earning a traditional or online college degree in Social Sciences you’ll have the level of education needed for promotion or to join the FBI, which requires a Bachelor’s Degree. Even if you are currently employed with the police department, it’s never too late to earn your degree and pursue higher positions. Police Officer average earnings: $50,000.

Since police officers generally work various shifts and hours, taking online college courses can be the perfect fit for you. You’ll be able to work at your own pace and study during the hours you are free without interrupting your current work schedule.

Other opportunities in the field of criminal justice include loss prevention professionals, private security officials, and employment with homeland security.

Whichever career path you choose, we hope you take the opportunity to invest in yourself and in your future by continuing your education. With the convenience of online college courses, there’s no reason not to begin reaching your tomorrow, today! If a career in Social Science isn’t right for you, check out the other degree programs and career options on our site.

Earning Your Science Bachelor‘s Degree

A Bachelor’s Degree in Science can take a number of career paths, depending on what field of study you choose to concentrate in. Science degrees are typically not general, since you’ll need to have a specific industry in mind first. Before choosing the science degree that’s right for you, decide on which degree best fits the career path or field you have chosen.

Specialized Fields Related to Science

Some of the fastest growing and most stable occupations related to science, include the following:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Environmental Science
• Computer Science
• Science Education
• Forensic Science
• Engineering
• Social Science
• Library Science
• Health Science
• Information Science

Science degrees involve working with and researching scientific data in your chosen field. This could involve crime scene investigation and data if you are working in the field of forensic science, or data retrieval for those working with computer science. The common denominator in any scientific field is the fact that your education will be heavy in the area science and mathematics, research, problem solving, analysis, and understanding scientific data, and having the ability to translate the data into terms that can be easily understood by the general public.

Choosing Your Field of Study for Earning Your Science Degree

Which field or industry are you most passionate about? That’s the first question you’ll have to answer.  Again, because science is so broad, you’ll need to have your career goals outlined before delving into your science degree. A Bachelor’s Degree in Science can be the start of a career as a research scientist, a college professor, a medical doctor, a pharmacist, veterinarian, lab technician, or any number of specialized fields.

In today’s ever changing and quickly developing society, a degree in science will place you as one of the most sought after candidates for job placement and career advancement.

To earn your degree, you can expect to take college courses in chemistry, geology, anatomy, astronomy, biology, physics, calculus, and college writing and statistics. You’ll also learn the basics of problem solving, research analysis, and critical thinking.

If the career path you have chosen requires a science degree, you may want to consider online college courses. Regardless of the career you are currently in, online college courses are the fastest and most convenient way to earn your college degree without interrupting your current lifestyle or taking years away from your current career in order to return to school.

If you are considering online college courses, check out the resources available on our website. You may even qualify for student aide through a government grant program. It all begins with that all important decision. Your career goals are closer than you may think. With the information we provide, you can realistically find yourself on the path to a new career in the field of science today!