Public Health vs. Nursing: What’s the Difference?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Health care is a broad field, and two critical fields that often come into focus are public health and nursing. But what’s the difference between public health and nursing? Both promote well-being and help prevent disease but operate differently and with unique approaches. Public health focuses on communitywide efforts to improve health outcomes through policies, education, and research. Nursing focuses on individual patient care, providing hands-on support and treatment.

Let’s take a deeper look at these two fields and see which might be the better career for you.

What Is Public Health?

Public health concerns the improvement and protection of community health. It involves the prevention of diseases, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, and the creation of policies and environments that enhance overall well-being. Public health professionals—which include community health workers, nutritionists, social workers, health educators, public health physicians, and many more—work on many activities, from monitoring and controlling the spread of infectious diseases to addressing concerns like access to clean water, nutritious food, and health care.

Public health is critical to improving communities because individuals in this profession work to prevent health crises, unlike doctors and nurses who primarily focus on treating individuals after they become sick. Also, public health workers move to promote health care equity, ensuring that quality health care is accessible to all people.

Help the community with a degree in public health from Excelsior University.

What Is a Public Health Nurse?

Public health nurses analyze health trends and risk factors, work with administrators and officials to design health education campaigns and disease prevention activities, and advocate for systems that provide access to care. They educate communities, especially vulnerable populations, to encourage healthy living and lifestyle changes, encourage preventative care, and help communities recover from natural disasters.

You can find public health nurses in various settings, including government agencies, community organizations, nonprofits, foundations, academic institutions, and research settings; some even work independently or start their own practices.

How Is Nursing Different Than Public Health?

Now that we’ve explored public health, let’s consider the difference between public health and nursing. Public health professionals focus on preventing illness and disease in communities, whereas nurses care for individual patients. Let’s explore public health versus nursing.

Similarities

  • Overall goal: Public health and nursing both aim to improve health outcomes.
  • Patient education: Public health professionals and nurses both educate others about health.
  • Collaboration: Both fields often require collaboration with other health care professionals, including doctors, social workers, and policymakers, to achieve their goals.
  • Ethical responsibility: Both professions operate under ethical guidelines prioritizing patient well-being, confidentiality, and equity in health care access.

Differences

  • Scope of practice: Public health focuses on designing and implementing programs and policies to improve health outcomes for communities and populations. Nursing, on the other hand, centers on providing direct care, support, and treatment to individual patients.
  • Approach: Public health uses a population-based approach, often involving research, data analysis, and policy development. Nurses use a patient-centered approach, focusing on the holistic care of individuals.
  • Education and training: Public health professionals require an education in public health, like a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, with courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and community health. Nurses often hold degrees ranging from an associate to a doctorate, focusing on clinical skills, patient assessment, and nursing theory.
  • Work environment: Public health professionals work in various settings, including government agencies, nonprofits, research institutions, and community organizations. Nurses typically work in clinical settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics.

A career in public health can mean making a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of entire communities. Whether through disease prevention, health promotion, or policy advocacy, public health professionals play a vital role in shaping a healthier future for all. By addressing complex health challenges and striving for health equity, a career in public health provides professional fulfillment and contributes to creating a more just and healthy society.

Mind the Gap: A Compassionate Approach to Online Learners’ Mental Health from Mindfulness to Crisis Support

Posted on by Mary Berkery, PhD

Brooke Morford, full-time faculty for Psychology, and Mary Berkery, department chair for Liberal Arts and Degree Completion, presented at the Online Learning Consortium (OLC) Accelerate Conference in Orlando, Florida. Their presentation was entitled “Mind the Gap: A Compassionate Approach to Online Learners’ Mental Health from Mindfulness to Crisis Support” and covered faculty and curriculum approaches to identifying, empathizing, accommodating, and referring students to appropriate resources for mental health and crisis support.

View the presentation slides here.

How to Become a Mechanical Engineering Technologist

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Embarking on a career as a mechanical engineering technologist opens the door to an innovative field where the principles of engineering meet practical, hands-on application. As a vital link between engineers and the manufacturing floor, mechanical engineering technologists play a central role in designing, developing, and improving mechanical systems and devices. This career path offers diverse opportunities, from working on cutting-edge robotics and automation systems to enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in various industries.

Below, we explore the essential steps to becoming a mechanical engineering technologist, including the necessary education, skills, and certifications, as well as tips for success, in this exciting, ever-evolving profession.

What Do Mechanical Engineering Technicians Do?

Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians are pivotal in bridging the gap between engineering concepts and practical implementation. They apply their technical expertise to assist in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of mechanical devices, machines, tools, and more. Working closely with mechanical engineers, they often take on responsibilities such as creating detailed drawings and specifications, developing prototypes, and conducting experiments to test design concepts. Their work ensures that engineering designs are feasible, efficient, and cost-effective, ultimately leading to the successful production and operation of mechanical systems.

In addition to design and development, mechanical engineering technologists and technicians are heavily involved in troubleshooting and improving existing mechanical systems. They might analyze data to identify areas of inefficiency or malfunction, suggest modifications, and implement solutions to enhance performance and reliability.

Their roles can span across a range of industries, including:

  • Architecture
  • Energy
  • HVAC
  • Manufacturing
  • Automotive and transportation equipment
  • Computer and electronic products

By applying their skills in computer-aided design (CAD) software, materials science, and instrumentation, these professionals contribute to technological advancements and the optimization of industrial processes, ensuring products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.

Design the innovations of tomorrow with Excelsior’s BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology.

Build a better career with a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Excelsior University.

Skills Every Mechanical Engineering Technologist Should Have

To excel as a mechanical engineering technologist, a combination of technical and soft skills is critical. These competencies allow these professionals to navigate the intricacies of their projects and work effectively in team environments.

Technical Proficiency

At the heart of mechanical engineering technology is a solid foundation in physics, mathematics, and material science. Engineers and technicians use this knowledge to develop specifications and design systems that meet functional requirements. Proficiency in CAD software is also essential for creating detailed blueprints and simulations that bring ideas to fruition.

Creativity and Innovation

Being able to break out of established ways of thinking is what drives progress in mechanical engineering. Engineers and technologists must envision novel solutions to complicated problems, often venturing into uncharted technological territories. This creativity and innovation can transform basic concepts into revolutionary products and services.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities

The ability to diagnose issues, analyze data, and develop effective solutions is vital. Technologists and technicians must be adept at troubleshooting mechanical systems and implementing improvements. Additionally, analyzing complex systems and processes, identifying inefficiencies, and proposing improvements are important aspects. Strong analytical skills enable technologists and technicians to optimize performance and ensure quality.

Teamwork and Communication

Collaboration is key, as mechanical engineering projects typically involve multidisciplinary teams. Engineers and technologists must also communicate their ideas clearly (both written and orally) and work alongside colleagues from a variety of technical backgrounds. This synergy fosters a productive environment where innovative solutions are born.

Attention to Detail

Precision is paramount in mechanical engineering. A minor oversight can lead to significant problems down the line. Thus, engineers, technologists, and technicians must be detail-oriented as they meticulously review designs, calculations, and specifications to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Adaptability

The world of mechanical engineering is constantly changing, with new technologies and methodologies regularly emerging. Engineering technicians must be adaptable—willing to learn new skills and update their knowledge to stay ahead in this dynamic field.

Steps to Become a Mechanical Engineering Technologist

Pursuing a career as a mechanical engineering technologist involves several key steps, each designed to build upon your knowledge, skills, and practical experience. Following this general roadmap can help aspiring engineers find success.

Earn a Degree

The first step toward a career in mechanical engineering is obtaining a or a closely related field. This education should provide a comprehensive foundation in essential engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and an introduction to specialized topics in mechanical engineering. Accredited engineering programs prepare students for the complexities of the profession and are often required for licensure.

Gain Practical Experience and Build a Professional Network

Hands-on experience is invaluable in the field of mechanical engineering. Internships, co-op programs, and entry-level positions offer the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects. These experiences both elevate technical skills as well as provide insight into working within multidisciplinary teams and developing professional networks.

It’s also beneficial to join professional organizations, attend industry conferences, and engage with peers and mentors in the field. Networking can open doors to job opportunities, provide support, and keep you updated on industry trends and advancements.

Obtain Certifications

Although not always required for mechanical engineering technologists, certifications can enhance your credentials and job prospects. Organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) offer certifications that demonstrate expertise and commitment to the profession and its various specialties.

Continue Education and Learning

The field of mechanical engineering is always advancing, driven by new technology and areas of research. A commitment to continuous learning through graduate studies, professional development courses, workshops, or certification programs can help you remain relevant and competitive in the job market.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Mechanical Engineering Technician?

The time it takes to become a mechanical engineering technician can vary depending on the educational path chosen and any additional training or certification pursued. Here’s a general timeline:

  • College-level degree (2+ years): After earning a high school diploma (and ideally completing relevant courses in subjects like math and computer science), enrolling in and completing a mechanical engineering technology program at the associate or bachelor’s level typically takes anywhere from two to four years. These programs provide foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in mechanical engineering principles and practices. Some employers may prefer candidates who have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and program.
  • Practical experience (varies):Gaining practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs can occur during the degree program. These opportunities may add additional time but are crucial for acquiring real-world experience.</li>
  • Optional certification (varies): Obtaining certification from organizations such as those mentioned above can take additional time, depending on the certification process and preparation required. Again, although certification is not always mandatory, it can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

In total, it may take about two to four years after high school to become a mechanical engineering technician if pursuing a degree and practical experience concurrently. The timeline may extend if you seek additional certifications or obtain practical experience separately.

Explore Your Future in Mechanical Engineering Technology with Excelsior University

If you’re drawn to a profession where creativity meets technical prowess, consider taking the first step toward this rewarding career. Excelsior University offers a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge, skills, and practical experience to thrive in the field. Our dedicated faculty and career-oriented curriculum are here to teach you the fundamentals while supporting your aspirations

Reach out to Excelsior today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your career goals in mechanical engineering technology.

 

What Can You Do with a Mechanical Engineering Technology Degree?

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Choosing a career path isn’t always a simple decision, especially when you’re passionate about technology and innovation. If you find yourself fascinated by how things work—from the smallest gadgets to the largest machines—mechanical engineering technology might be a suitable career for you.

A career in MET offers numerous opportunities to apply creativity and problem-solving skills to real-world challenges. Equipped with the proper skill set and paired with a dash of curiosity, the possibilities are endless. Let’s dive into what makes mechanical engineering technology such a dynamic and rewarding field.

What Is Mechanical Engineering Technology?

Mechanical engineering is the cornerstone of innovation and design in the physical world. It encompasses the development, design, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical devices and systems. From the engines that power our vehicles to the refrigeration systems that keep our food from spoiling, mechanical engineers play a pivotal role in our daily lives.

While mechanical engineering technology and mechanical engineering are closely related fields, they have distinct educational paths and focus areas that can lead to different career trajectories. Both mechanical engineering and mechanical engineering technology deal with mechanical systems and machinery; however, the former involves developing new technologies and understanding systems from a theoretical standpoint, whereas the latter is more about applying current technologies in practical, hands-on ways.

In other words, mechanical engineers often apply engineering principles to tasks like designing machines. Mechanical engineer technologists or technicians might then be the ones analyzing and offering feedback on how the designs might be implemented in manufacturing. These professionals might also be involved in acquiring parts, testing and examining the machines, ensuring quality control, and suggesting any necessary adjustments. And someone who starts their career as a technician or technologist may eventually become an engineer.

Mechanical Engineering Technology Career Paths

Mechanical engineering technology can present various exciting and fulfilling roles. From coordinating with engineers and manufacturers to assisting with design plans and testing, there’s plenty of space in the workforce for mechanical engineering technology graduates to apply their skill sets. They should demonstrate the capability to apply knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to address engineering challenges and problems. This may include analyzing, developing, implementing, overseeing, and enhancing mechanical processes or systems while being able to:

  • Communicate effectively in diverse settings
  • Comprehend and apply relevant technical literature
  • Conduct tests, analyses, and measurements
Build a better career with a BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology from Excelsior University.

MET Careers

Below, we delve into examples of MET industry positions, from more typical jobs in manufacturing and production to less conventional positions, like a role in sales.

Quality Assurance (QA) Manager/Engineer

Quality assurance managers and engineers in the mechanical engineering technology field are responsible for ensuring products are of high quality and meet all required standards and specifications. They play a critical role in maintaining customer satisfaction, improving production processes, and remaining compliant with industry regulations.

Technical Services Supervisor

Technical services supervisors oversee the delivery of technical services and support, ensuring that operations run smoothly and efficiently while meeting customer needs. They may manage a team of technical professionals, coordinate service activities, provide high-level technical support, ensure quality and safety compliance, and maintain detailed documentation.

Design Engineer

Design engineers specialize in the development of products and systems. Some (such as computer-aided design operators) might use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed models and specifications for products. This type of position requires a blend of creativity and technical knowledge, as design engineers must ensure their designs are practical, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing. Working closely with project managers and manufacturing teams, design engineers play a key role in bringing new ideas to life.

Technical Sales Engineer

Technical sales engineers leverage in-depth knowledge of mechanical engineering principles to sell complex products and services. This role requires a unique combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills in addition to understanding customer needs, presenting technical solutions, and negotiating contracts. This career path is ideal for those who enjoy a challenge, are passionate about technology, and possess strong communication skills.

Consultant

Mechanical engineering consultants offer their expertise on a project basis, working across multiple industries. This role is perfect for those who seek variety in their work and enjoy solving a vast range of problems. Consultants might advise on the design of a new product, the optimization of manufacturing processes, or the implementation of sustainable engineering practices. This path offers flexibility and the ability to positively contribute to numerous, concurrent projects.

For instance, a technical services consultant provides expert advice, solutions, and support to clients to help them address technical challenges and continuously improve their mechanical systems and processes. Their specialized knowledge is central to duties that embody project management, system design, performance evaluation, training, compliance, and more.

How to Build a Successful Mechanical Engineering Technology Career

Establishing a successful career in mechanical engineering requires a solid educational foundation, continuous learning, and a proactive approach to career development. Networking, seeking internships or cooperative education programs, and engaging with other professional resources are all essential steps. Always look for opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills, whether through additional certifications, attending workshops, or pursuing advanced degrees. Embrace challenges and be open to exploring various roles and industries where your skills in mechanical engineering technology can make a difference.

Professional Resources for Mechanical Engineers

Staying connected with the mechanical engineering community is vital for career growth and remaining up to date on industry trends. Professional societies—such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)—offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development programs. In addition, journals, online forums, and conferences are excellent sources of new research, technology updates, and expert insights.

Discover the Potential of Engineering Technology Expertise with Excelsior University

Starting a career in mechanical engineering technology opens the doors to potential. No matter whether you’re most intrigued by traditional roles or the path less traveled, your skills and creativity have the power to improve the world around us. As you consider your future, remember that the journey begins with a solid educational foundation. For aspiring mechanical engineering technologists and technicians, this type of degree program will emphasize putting ideas into action.

If you’re interested in exploring the vast opportunities that a degree in mechanical engineering technology can offer, Excelsior University is here to help. Our online BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology can prepare students for success in this dynamic field. Contact Excelsior University to request more information and discover how we can support your educational and career aspirations and start building a brighter, more innovative future together.

The Impact of Nursing Education on Patient Outcomes

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Nurses are often the first to assess, treat, and advocate for patients, making their education and training crucial to the quality of care they deliver. Nursing education is important to patient outcomes because well-prepared nurses ensure patient safety, reduce errors, and improve overall health outcomes.

What Do Nurses Do?

Nurses are essential health care professionals that help promote good health, prevent disease, and support patients through illness. They have a variety of duties, including assessing and identifying patients’ needs, implementing and monitoring medical plans, and overseeing treatments. They conduct physical exams, administer medications, gather comprehensive health histories, draw blood samples, monitor vital signs, document systems, and analyze test results. Furthermore, nurses often offer emotional support and education to patients and their families.

Help improve patient outcomes by earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Excelsior.

How Do BSN Nurses Improve Patient Outcomes?

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) is one of many institutions that have shown that nursing education significantly correlates to improved patient outcomes. This includes nurses with bachelor’s degrees. For instance, bachelor’s-educated nurses understand the health care system more deeply. They are educated in evidence-based practices and critical thinking, which can help them make faster and better decisions and reduce errors. BSN nurses can also build stronger relationships with patients because they spend more time with them.

What the Research Says

Many studies show that nurses with bachelor’s degrees have significantly improved patient outcomes. For example, a study conducted between 2006 and 2016 found that the average number of BSN nurses in hospitals increased from 41% to 56%, which led to reduced mortality rates and shorter lengths of stay. According to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey, more than 70% of nurses hold a bachelor’s degree in nursing or higher, which results in more significant positive patient effects. Furthermore, the University of Pennsylvania Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics published a study in 2022 of 510 hospitals and 20,268 nurses and found that for every 10% increase in BSN-educated nurses in hospitals, there was a 5.5% decrease in surgical patient mortality.

Increasingly, evidence indicates that higher education and advanced nurse training can improve patient safety and their overall well-being. If you want to make an impact on the health of others, consider earning your bachelor’s of science in nursing and becoming a registered nurse.

 

The Future of Higher Ed: New Business Models for Modern Learners

Posted on by Christopher Cassirer

Excelsior University provost and chief academic officer Christopher Cassirer published an article titled “The Future of Higher Ed: New Business Models for Modern Learners” in The EvoLLLution. In the piece, Cassirer discusses ways that higher education institutions can embrace new modalities, pathways, credentials, and technology to better serve students.

Read the article here.

Career Spotlight: Cryptologist

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

What Does a Cryptologist Do, and Is It the Right Career for Me?

Are you a problem-solver? Do you enjoy puzzles and escape rooms? Cryptology is the study of codes or the art of writing and solving them. If this is something you’re interested in, check out this guide to find out whether a career in cryptology is right for you.

What Is a Cryptologist?

Cryptologists study encryption and decryption research and can establish channels for secure communications. They also analyze data and patterns to decipher and generate encoded signals. Many companies depend on cryptology for security, so you can find jobs across all industries.

Set yourself up for a career in cryptology with a BS in National Security from Excelsior University.

Cryptologist vs. Cryptographer

While both cryptologists and cryptographers are similar and work in coding, there are slight differences. Cryptologists study codes and create and solve them. They create codes by converting plain text to cipher text, but also convert cipher text into plain text. Cryptographers only create codes by converting plain text to cipher text.

What Does a Cryptologist Do?

While duties can vary depending on where you work, cryptologists are responsible for:

  • Converting plain text to cipher text to ensure no one can encrypt the information
  • Designing surveys, experiments, or polls to collect data
  • Interpreting data and communicating analyses to technical and nontechnical audiences
  • Using statistical software to analyze data
  • Creating visual aids to make sophisticated business decisions
  • Applying mathematical theories and techniques to solve practical problems

Cryptologists focus on solving problems and creating codes and solutions for the organization for which they work.

What Skills Do a Cryptologist Need?

  • Analytical skills: Cryptologists use mathematical techniques and models to evaluate large amounts of data.
  • Ability to think logically: These professionals must understand and be able to use computer programming languages to design and develop models and to analyze data.
  • Problem-solving skills: They must devise solutions to problems encountered in national security, science, and other fields.
  • Communication skills: Cryptology is all about communicating—in plain text and cipher text. You must create simple or complicated ways to communicate and be able to explain things in nontechnical ways.

Where Does a Cryptologist Work?

Cryptologists work in various organizations and industries, but most importantly in local, state, and federal governments, private companies, and military intelligence. You might find cryptologists working in electronic government banking, military communications, national security, and any area where legal databases depend on cryptology for security.

Education Requirements for Cryptologists

Typically, cryptologists need at least a bachelor’s degree in national security, mathematics, computer science, or a related field. Excelsior University’s fully online bachelor’s degree in national security program will prepare you for a career in homeland security, diplomacy, foreign relations, intelligence analysis, or international logistics, which all use cryptologists on their teams.

How Much Do Cryptologists Make?

According to Lightcast, the median advertised salary in the United States for entry-level cryptologist positions requiring a bachelor’s degree is $100,100 per year. The median advertised salary for all cryptologist positions requiring a bachelor’s is $128,800. If this sounds like the kind of job you want, reach out to an admissions counselor at Excelsior University to get started today.

Pathways to Progress: Accessible Approaches to Assessment in Higher Education

Posted on by Joe Levy

Joe Levy, associate vice provost for Accreditation and Quality Improvement, co-presented a webinar entitled “Pathways to Progress: Accessible Approaches to Assessment in Higher Education.”

Wright, K. A., Heiser, C. A., & Levy, J. D. (2024, October). Pathways to progress: Accessible approaches to assessment in higher education [Webinar]. In SAAL Structured Conversations.

Watch the webinar here.

What’s Next for Assessment? Insights From Current Graduate Education Practices

Posted on by Joe Levy

Joe Levy, associate vice provost for accreditation and quality improvement, co-presented a webinar entitled “What’s next for assessment? Insights from current graduate education practices.”

Rehr, T., Holliday-Millard, P., Boren, S., Gill, T., Levy, J. D., Jankowski, N. A., & Lovette, S. (2024, June). What’s next for assessment? Insights from current graduate education practices [Webinar]. In SAAL Structured Conversations

Watch the webinar here.

Student-Centric Design in Executive Programs

Posted on by Scott Dolan

Excelsior University executive dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Scott Dolan and associate dean of business Leah Sciabarrasi were interviewed on an episode of the EdUp Curriculum podcast. The episode focuses on student-centric design in executive programs, covering Excelsior’s innovative Executive MBA program. The conversation covers the program’s unique immersive experiences and residency locations; Excelsior’s transformative strategy focusing on educational partnerships and student-centric education; and the University’s approach to authentic assessment that prepares students for the workforce.

Watch the episode here.

Career Spotlight: Crime Statistics Analyst

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

In-depth Guide to a Career as a Crime Statistics Analyst

If you consider yourself a data guru and enjoy the occasional “Law & Order” episode, a career as a crime statistics analyst might be for you. Check out this spotlight to start your career today.

What Is a Crime Statistics Analyst?

A crime statistics analyst studies crime statistics to solve criminal cases and support law enforcement. They work to identify trends and patterns in criminal behavior by analyzing data. Crime statistics analysts work with criminal investigative units at the state and federal levels. In some cases, crime statistics analysts can be police officers or detectives.

Start your career as a crime statistics analyst with Excelsior University’s AS in Criminal Justice.

What Does a Crime Statistics Analyst Do?

Crime statistics analysts are key to any law enforcement team. They study data to provide strategic, statistical, and investigative support to law enforcement by suggesting ways to reduce crime within specific areas. They use data and science to help find patterns in criminal activity by:

  • Reviewing large amounts of data from law enforcement sources. Crime statistics analysts use this to determine when and where to deploy law enforcement and other personnel. They also examine administrative data to sort leads and information about cases to provide accurate information to high-level officers.
  • Generating reports based on their findings. A large part of a crime statistics analyst’s job is to analyze information and create reports to present to leadership. This is important to keep data accurate but also to use in court and for future cases. High-level officers and leadership can also use these reports to make recommendations for combating crime and allocating police resources.
  • Presenting findings to leadership, police officers, supervisors, members of the public, and policymakers. Crime statistics analysts present their findings to certain groups to ensure the information is getting to the right people. They use this time to provide context behind the data and clarify any confusing or misleading parts of their reports.

What Skills Does a Crime Statistics Analyst Need?

While everyone comes with their own set of skills, successful crime statistics analysts generally have the following:

  • Analytical skills: Research and understanding data is at the core of the position. Being able to understand and process information is key to this job.
  • Problem-solving skills: Crime statistics analysts are always solving a puzzle. Being able to find solutions quickly and efficiently is needed in this role.
  • Technical skills: You must be proficient in computer programs, especially spreadsheet software, crime mapping, and statistics.
  • Communication skills: Crime statistics analysts need strong written and verbal communication skills to create accurate reports that anyone can understand. Attention to detail is critical, since some reporting can be used in court cases.

How to Become a Crime Statistics Analyst

Although paths can vary, the following steps constitute a reasonable road map for people looking to enter this career.

Step 1: Earn an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice

Crime statistics analysts require at least an associate degree in criminal justice, forensic psychology, or another related field to be considered for an entry-level position. An associate degree in criminal justice from Excelsior University will introduce you to law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice systems in the United States.

Step 2: Gain Relevant Experience

Successful candidates have some experience working in the law enforcement field. At Excelsior University, you can study while working full time or part time. Positions that involve working with data and different software will look very impressive on your resume.

Step 3: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Like other jobs, higher education levels can help you secure leadership roles or stand out from other candidates. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Excelsior University will prepare you to work in law enforcement, security analysis, crime scene investigation, and other areas. You will focus on U.S. constitutional law and amendments, criminal policies and procedures, and data analysis.

Crime Statistics Analyst Salary

According to Payscale.com, the average base salary for crime analysts was $54,018 in 2024, whereas Indeed reports the average as $66,813. The job market is projected by Zippia to grow 3% from 2018 to 2028. If this sounds like something you’re interested in, make sure to chat with an admissions counselor at Excelsior University to learn more today!