How Nuclear Degree Programs Prepare Students for Careers in Nuclear Energy

Posted on by Anveeksh Koneru

A nuclear engineering technology program prepares students for a wide range of careers in nuclear energy by combining technical knowledge with operational training and industry best practices. Students gain an understanding of how nuclear facilities generate power, maintain safe operations, and meet strict regulatory requirements.
Beyond classroom theory, many programs emphasize real-world applications through laboratory exercises, simulations, and problem-solving activities. This combination helps students develop the skills employers value while building a foundation for long-term success in the field.

What You Learn in a Nuclear Engineering Technology Program

In addition to building technical expertise, students develop skills that employers across the nuclear industry value, including problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and attention to detail. Through coursework, laboratories, and simulation-based learning, a nuclear engineering technology program helps prepare graduates to contribute to the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of nuclear facilities throughout their careers.

Technical Competence

Technical competence is the foundation of nearly all careers in nuclear energy. Nuclear engineering technology programs help students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support the operation, maintenance, and oversight of nuclear systems and facilities.
Students typically study subjects such as reactor systems, radiation protection, electrical systems, thermodynamics, instrumentation and controls, and nuclear regulations. These topics help them understand not only how systems work individually but also how they interact within a complex operating environment.

Many nuclear degree programs also incorporate simulations and simulator-based learning. These tools allow students to practice responding to realistic operating conditions in a controlled environment. By working through scenarios that mirror what professionals encounter in the field, students can strengthen their decision-making, troubleshooting, and analytical skills before entering the workforce.
This blend of theory and hands-on learning helps graduates prepare for careers in nuclear energy that demand technical precision, sound judgment, and continuous learning.

Safety Culture

Safety culture is the collective commitment of an organization and its employees to prioritize safety in every decision, action, and process. In the nuclear industry, safety culture goes beyond following rules. It involves personal accountability, open communication, continuous improvement, and a shared responsibility to identify and address potential risks before they become problems.

Because nuclear facilities operate within one of the most highly regulated industries in the world, employers place significant value on professionals who understand the principles of a strong safety culture. Nuclear engineering technology programs introduce students to industry expectations, regulatory requirements, and the importance of maintaining safety-focused attitudes throughout their careers.

Students learn how human performance, procedures, teamwork, and leadership contribute to safe operations. They also gain an appreciation for how a strong safety culture supports public confidence, environmental stewardship, and operational success.

Whether pursuing technical, supervisory, or management positions, professionals who embrace safety culture are better prepared to succeed in careers in nuclear energy and contribute to the long-term reliability of nuclear facilities.

Reliability and Operational Excellence

Reliability and operational excellence are essential principles across the nuclear industry. Facilities are expected to operate safely, efficiently, and consistently while meeting demanding performance standards. As a result, employers seek professionals who understand how disciplined operations contribute to organizational success.

A nuclear engineering technology program helps students develop habits and skills that support reliable performance. Coursework often emphasizes attention to detail, problem-solving, procedural compliance, quality assurance, and systems thinking. These competencies help graduates understand how their work affects broader operational outcomes.

Students also learn the importance of continuous improvement. By analyzing performance data, identifying opportunities for improvement, and following established processes, nuclear professionals help facilities maintain high levels of efficiency and reliability.
These capabilities can position graduates for stable and rewarding careers in nuclear energy. Organizations value employees who contribute to operational excellence because their work supports safety objectives, regulatory compliance, and long-term organizational performance.

Prepare for Your Career in Nuclear Energy with Excelsior

If you’re interested in a career in nuclear energy, Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology program can help you build the technical knowledge, safety mindset, and operational expertise employers value. As the only fully online ABET-accredited BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology program in the United States, the program offers flexibility for working adults while incorporating industry-relevant learning experiences, including simulator-based training. With dedicated student support and resources like Excelsior’s Career Readiness services, you can prepare to start or advance your career in nuclear energy with confidence.

Will You Join Me? 4 Reasons Why I Go to bbcon

Posted on by Sara Niemiec

Sara Niemiec, Excelsior University advancement operations specialist, contributed a blog post to Blackbaud’s ENGAGE blog titled “Will You Join Me? 4 Reasons I Go to bbcon.” The article discusses professional and personal development opportunities available at bbcon, the annual conference for experts in Blackbaud fundraising software.

Read the blog post here.

Excelsior University signs its first partnership serving international students

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Virtual University of Côte d’Ivoire President Tiémoman Kone (left) shakes hands with Excelsior University President David Schejbal (right) to commemorate a new partnership serving international students.

ALBANY, N.Y. – Excelsior University welcomed representatives from the Virtual University of Côte d’Ivoire (UVCI) to its Albany headquarters to sign a historic global partnership agreement. The two institutions formally established their international collaboration with a signing ceremony.  

Excelsior’s first partnership serving international students, the collaboration with UVCI reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to higher education and creating new opportunities for students across borders. Graduates of UVCI’s database license program— the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree— will have access to a seamless pathway to earn an MBA at Excelsior.  

Based in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire’s largest city, UVCI was established in 2015 to expand access to quality postsecondary education while addressing capacity constraints at traditional universities in the West African country. Like Excelsior University, UVCI’s mission is based on providing accessible education through digital innovation.  

“Our commitment is to use digital technology to train young people capable of innovating and launching ventures directly in the field, without being held back by physical or geographical barriers,” said UVCI President Tiémoman Kone. “By partnering with Excelsior University, an institution with a long history of online education innovation, we can create even more opportunities for learners through advanced degrees grounded in practical, workforce-ready knowledge.” 

“From West Africa to the American Northeast, UVCI and Excelsior share a mission that unites us across oceans and borders,” said Excelsior University President David Schejbal. “This partnership will establish new educational pathways for UVCI learners, supporting their pursuit of personal and professional goals anywhere in the world.” 

For more information on this partnership, visit: excelsior.edu/partner/universite-virtuelle-de-cote-divorie-virtual-university-of-the-ivory-coast/  

 # # # 

Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446
  

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY 
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.   

Excelsior is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs. 

Licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education (License No. 12928). Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, toll-free number: (888)-224-6684.

How AI and Digital Twins Are Changing Mechanical Engineering

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

What if you could test a machine before it existed, predict when a part might break, or use AI to quickly create new designs? That’s the future of mechanical engineering—and it’s already taking shape. Artificial intelligence and digital twins are giving engineers innovative new ways to design, simulate, and improve machines using real-time data and virtual models. These technologies are expanding what’s possible, opening the door to smarter designs, more efficient systems, and innovative solutions to today’s complex challenges.

Living Through Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, was the term first introduced in 2011 to define the rapidly emerging industrial technology in the world. Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing through technologies like AI, cloud computing, 3D printing, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and digital twins. By combining real-time data with smart machines or automated systems, manufacturers can create more efficient, flexible, and responsive items.

What Are Digital Twins, and How Do They Work?

A digital twin is a detailed virtual representation of a physical product, machine, process, or entire facility. It uses real-time data and simulations to show how the physical counterpart acts. Unlike an ordinary model, a digital twin changes throughout the item’s life cycle. This allows engineers to design, test, troubleshoot, and fix systems in a virtual environment before building or making physical changes. By utilizing Industry 4.0 technology, including extended reality, digital twins can help manufacturers improve product quality, streamline production, help with maintenance, reduce waste, train employees, and make smarter decisions.

How AI and Digital Twins Work Together

Artificial intelligence and digital twins rely on data, so combining the two technologies creates powerful opportunities for mechanical engineers. AI can analyze the large amounts of data generated by a digital twin to identify patterns, make predictions, and improve performance. For example, AI-enhanced digital twins can predict when an aircraft engine may require maintenance. By learning from historical data and analyzing new information, digital twins can make accurate predictions, helping engineers design more efficient systems and make smarter decisions.

The Benefits of Combining AI with Digital Twins

AI-powered digital twins are beneficial to mechanical engineers and manufacturers in a variety of ways, including:

  • Predictive maintenance: AI detects potential equipment failures early, reducing downtime.
  • Smart data processing: AI analyzes large volumes of data to uncover useful insights.
  • Faster design: AI allows engineers to test more design possibilities in less time.
  • Energy optimization: AI improves efficiency, output, and energy use throughout the design, production, and maintenance processes.
  • Smart recommendations: AI provides guidance to help engineers troubleshoot problems and make faster, better decisions.
  • Smart solutions: AI not only identifies problems but also recommends solutions and next steps.
  • Safe virtual testing: Engineers can test system changes virtually before implementing them in the real world.

Skills You Should Develop to Work with Digital Twins

Working with AI and digital twins requires technical, engineering, and interpersonal skills. Mechanical engineers need to understand data analytics, IoT, programming languages like Python, simulation and modeling tools, and cloud computing. It’s also helpful to have strong engineering and industry knowledge. In addition, problem-solving and communication skills help engineers and engineering techs troubleshoot issues, interpret complex data, and explain issues to others.

Start Your Career in Mechanical Engineering Technology at Excelsior

As AI, digital twins, and other emerging technologies continue to reshape mechanical engineering, professionals with a strong foundation in engineering and technology will be most successful in this field. Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology program teaches you the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to adapt to emerging technologies. Excelsior also provides academic support and resources to help you stay on track, and Career Readiness can help you explore career paths, strengthen your resume and interview skills, and put your degree to work.

Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or transition into a new career in engineering technology

Finding His Way: Patrick Corbett’s Unexpected Journey

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

When Patrick Corbett first enrolled in college in 2017, he couldn’t have imagined that one day he would be a graduate with a 4.0 GPA, let alone an engineer, a college instructor, and a father.

“I failed so many times,” Corbett says. “And if you told me at 20 years old that I was going to be in the position that I am now, then I don’t think I would have believed myself.”

Corbett, who graduated from Excelsior University with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology in 2025, works as an electronic warfare engineer for SRC Inc., a defense contractor focused on technologies that help protect military service members. Corbett also teaches industrial electricity at Onondaga Community College, in Syracuse, New York, and is pursuing a Master of Business Administration at Excelsior.

He still finds his success humbling.

A Loss That Changed Everything

Corbett’s career path began with his family.

His father owned a construction company and was the first person to encourage him to think beyond working with his hands. “Basically, the first thing he said to me, he said, ‘Patrick, I don’t want you working for me,’” Corbett recalls. Instead, his father suggested that he look into studying electrical technology at Onondaga Community College because he could succeed financially and professionally in such a diverse field. Corbett started the program in 2017, but just two months later, his father died unexpectedly of a heart attack.

The loss was devastating for Corbett, and he dropped out of college.

He found himself trying to process grief while figuring out what direction his life would take. So, for a time, he stepped away from school. He was unsure what his future would hold and didn’t know what to do next. Ultimately, he settled on a direction.

“I realized [my father] probably wouldn’t want me to drop out,” Corbett says.

The Right Fit at Excelsior

Corbett had difficulty finding a higher education institution where he felt like he belonged. He eventually returned to Onondaga Community College and finished his associate degree in electrical technology in 2021. At the same time, he landed a position as an electronics RF technician at SRC. He then enrolled in an online electrical engineering program at Arizona State University, but the experience didn’t feel like the right fit.

Then, he remembered that professors at Onondaga Community College—an education partner of Excelsior University­—spoke highly of Excelsior, so he decided to make the switch.

For Corbett, the biggest draw was balance. He was working full time, teaching, and building a family life with his fiancée and young daughter. At Excelsior, he found an online format that gave him clarity and structure from the start. He appreciated being able to look ahead, understand course expectations, and build school around the realities of his daily life. Just as important, he found professors who were accessible and invested.

“The work-life balance … is the whole reason why I chose Excelsior,” he says, adding, “I really was able to thrive [because] the professors really pay attention to you.”

That support helped him succeed.

Work with Real-World Impact

 Corbett graduated from Excelsior University in August 2025 with a 4.0 GPA, and soon after, he was promoted to his current position as an electronic warfare engineer.

At SRC, he contributes to the development and analysis of advanced electronic systems that support U.S. defense missions. His role involves working with complex signal data and creating models that help improve awareness and protection for military personnel.

It’s meaningful work for Corbett. “I think the most rewarding part about it is just knowing you’re saving a life,” he says. “Just being able to do anything that you can to make sure that they make it home safe to their families is the most important aspect of the job.”

As a father, Corbett approaches his work with gravity. He often thinks about service members with families waiting for them to return home. The responsibility, he says, keeps him focused.

Student to Teacher 

While building his engineering career, an unexpected opportunity opened for Corbett. An adjunct position in Corbett’s field became available at Onondaga Community College, so he quickly applied. Former professors at his alma mater remembered the student he had been and the potential they had seen in him. So, when they saw he had applied, they were excited at the prospect of having him return as a faculty member.

They offered Corbett the chance to teach industrial electricity and develop a course from the ground up.

He is now in his fourth semester teaching at Onondaga Community College and says his favorite part of being in the classroom is the moment when something finally clicks in a student’s head.

He knows the feeling well because he has lived it himself.

“I love seeing when they just don’t understand something, and then that second it finally clicks,” he says. “Then I get to tell them, ‘See, I told you you’d be able to do it.’” He hopes he can help them stay on their paths and meet their goals.

Learning from Failure

Corbett knows firsthand how easy it is to feel like the finish line is too far away. He also knows what it feels like to miss family events, lose free time, and wonder whether the sacrifices are worth it. But he believes there is value in staying focused on the bigger picture.

“You’re allowed to be selfish for something that’s going to better your future. And I think that’s a big aspect that a lot of students need to see,” Corbett says. “I tell my students that, as well. I say, ‘You’re allowed to be selfish because this is for you, and overall, you’re the only one that’s going to be able to live your life. So, this is the way to make it better.’”

Corbett says that, looking back, one lesson stands above the rest: What feels like failure in the moment often turns into something much bigger.

“I’ve realized that your greatest failures are actually your biggest successes,” he says.

That realization has defined much of his journey.

Where He Wants to Be

The young man who dropped out of college more than once is now an engineer, a teacher, a graduate student, a father, and a soon-to-be husband. And he’s a professional who is trusted with work that helps protect lives.

Corbett is also someone who understands that success doesn’t always look the way you imagined it.

These days, when he isn’t working, studying, or teaching, Corbett spends time with his fiancée, daughter, and family, or out on the golf course, whenever he can.

Life is busy now, but in the best way.

“It’s nice. It’s steady,” he says. “It’s where I want to be.”

Excelsior University and PITC Institute partner to expand access to nursing programs

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y. – Excelsior University and PITC Institute are proud to announce a new partnership designed to expand access to educational opportunities. This collaboration creates a seamless and affordable pathway for PITC Institute Practical Nurse Associate in Specialized Technology degree graduates to continue their education and advance their careers through Excelsior’s portfolio of online degree programs, including further studies in nursing and health sciences.

Through this partnership, eligible students will benefit from:

  • 10% tuition discount on undergraduate and graduate tuition.
  • Tuition deferral option, allowing eligible students whose employers offer to repay some or all of their tuition.
  • Personalized support from an enrollment specialist to answer questions and guide students through the enrollment process.
  • Dedicated partnership webpage with program details, transfer information, and enrollment guidance.

These educational partnership benefits are also available for eligible PITC Institute employees, as well as their spouses or domestic partners and children.

“Excelsior’s partnership with PITC Institute helps learners continue their healthcare education with greater flexibility and more opportunities for academic and professional growth,” said Excelsior University President David Schejbal. “Through collaborations like this, higher education institutions can support lifelong learning while meeting the needs of an evolving workforce.”

“At PITC Institute, we are committed to creating opportunities for our graduates to continue building on the education and skills they have worked so hard to achieve,” said Shahid Ahmed, president of PITC Institute. “Our partnership with Excelsior University provides PITC graduates with an accessible pathway to advance their education, expand their professional opportunities, and continue growing within the nursing and healthcare professions.”

Excelsior University’s online and hybrid online/in-person programs are designed to meet working adult students where they are, academically and geographically. Excelsior’s rolling admissions calendar offers additional flexibility for students to register for classes on a schedule that fits their lives.

For more information on the partnership, visit excelsior.edu/partner/pitc-institute.

# # #

Media contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

Partnership contact:
Jane Kelley, Business Development Manager, jkelley@excelsior.edu, 518-332-5758

About Excelsior University

Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit higher education institution focused on helping learners complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971 in Albany, New York, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.

Excelsior is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs.

Licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education (License No. 12928). Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, toll-free number: (888)-224-6684.

Local middle-schooler funds a new Excelsior University scholarship with bake sale proceeds

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Emma Kacani holds a plate of home-baked sheqerpare, her favorite traditional Albanian cookies. 

ALBANY, N.Y. – Eleven-year-old Emma Kacani has a taste for philanthropy.

With a little help from her aunts and grandmother, Emma baked trays of traditional Albanian desserts like sheqerpare, pengjir, ballokume, kadaif, and her “famous peanut butter cookies” to sell at the inaugural Capital Region Albanian Fest on July 18 at Cook Park in Colonie. Her bake sale was a hit, and Emma had big plans for the profits.

The daughter of Excelsior University alumna and former employee Ermenita Kacani, Emma decided to reach out to her mom’s alma mater to give back to the local Albanian community. Her family contributed to Emma’s $600 in bake sale proceeds, raising a total of $1,000 to create the Emma Kacani Ever Upward Scholarship. The fund supports Excelsior’s mission of educational access by providing grants for first-generation college students from the Capital Region who demonstrate financial need. The scholarship will be awarded during the current fiscal year.

“Emma’s generosity and commitment to service are an inspiration, proving that meaningful philanthropy can begin at any age,” said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, Excelsior University chief diversity officer and founding director of the Center for Social Justice. “While her baking has brought joy to family, friends, and neighbors, her decision to establish this scholarship will have an even greater impact. The Emma Kacani Ever Upward Fund will create new opportunities for Capital Region learners and further Excelsior’s mission of expanding access to higher education.”

“I wanted to do something good and helpful, and I wanted to share our culture through something everyone likes: food!” said Emma Kacani. “There are people in our community who really want to go to college but need help, and I thought this bake sale was one way to make it happen.”

Additional contributions can be made to the Emma Kacani Ever Upward Scholarship by visiting excelsior.edu/giving/ever-upward-giving.

# # #

Media Contact Excelsior University:  
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

About Excelsior University
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.

Excelsior is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs.

Licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education (License No. 12928). Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, toll-free number: (888)-224-6684.

Ghost Students Are Real: How Higher Education Can Fight a Growing Fraud Threat

Posted on by Lizz Petroski

Following up on their July 2026 University Risk Management and Insurance Association (URMIA) webinar, Excelsior University’s Lizz Petroski, executive director of student financial services, and Sarah Egerton, director of risk management and internal audit, published an article on URMIA Insights to examine the risk landscape of fraudulent “ghost student” activity and share how cross-functional mitigation strategies can strengthen controls and reduce application fraud risk in higher education. The article, “Ghost Students Are Real: How Higher Education Can Fight a Growing Fraud Threat,” discusses how Excelsior University addressed these issues and offers valuable lessons for risk managers, enrollment leaders, financial aid professionals, and institutional administrators across higher education.

Read the article here.

 

 

 

Career Spotlight: Patient Care Technician

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

If you want a health care career where you get to work with patients, but you’re not interested in nursing or becoming a physician, consider a career as a patient care technician (PCT). It’s one of the easiest ways to gain hands-on experience while working alongside other medical staff, and it allows you to make a difference in patient care.

What Is a Patient Care Technician

A patient care technician’s main job is to provide basic care to patients; however, the term “basic” can be ambiguous. In fact, a patient care technician is responsible for ensuring the comfort, support, and nurturing of patients in a health care setting. These professionals monitor a patient’s health, assist with feeding and grooming, sanitize and clean rooms, and carry out more duties that are critical to positively impacting the lives of patients and their families.

What Does a PCT Do?

While patient care technicians don’t diagnose conditions or create care plans, they work to ensure that patients are comfortable and safe. PCTs usually work under the supervision of a registered nurse and support other staff. Daily PCT job duties include:

  • Collecting blood, urine, and stool samples for laboratory testing
  • Measuring and recording vital signs
  • Helping patients move between a bed, chair, wheelchair, and bathroom
  • Performing medical tests and documenting the results
  • Acquiring, distributing, and administering patient care supplies
  • Listening to and noting patient concerns
  • Assisting with meal service and monitoring patients’ food and fluid intake
  • Performing safety checks and ensuring rooms are clean
  • Escorting patients around the hospital
  • Tracking patient progress during care, including physical therapy
  • Offering emotional support to patients and their families

In addition, PCTs may carry out other tasks, depending on their specialty. For example, dialysis patient care technicians help patients who receive dialysis treatment by preparing treatment and monitoring patients during their sessions. Emergency department technicians support care teams by assisting with patient intake and rapid response tasks. And EKG or phlebotomy technicians assist with performing electrocardiograms or blood draws.

Career Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, patient care technicians fall within the “nursing assistant and orderlies” category, and the 2025 median annual pay for these professionals was $41,870. The average salary for PCTs in July 2026 was $39,971, according to Payscale. The BLS projects that about 203,300 jobs are projected to open each year for nursing assistants and orderlies over the next decade, with 1.9 million openings per year, on average, projected for all health care occupations.

Start Your PCT Career with Excelsior

To become a PCT, you need the right balance of education and certification. Excelsior University’s Associate in Science in Health Sciences program can prepare you for entry-level roles in health care, including as a patient care technician.

Excelsior’s program is specifically designed for busy professionals who want to advance their education while balancing other responsibilities, especially allied health professionals, people working in medical billing and coding, and veterans and active-duty service members with military medical training. And with Excelsior’s student support and Career Readiness resources, students can expect a helping hand every step of the way.

However, you may not want to stop at your degree. According to the National Healthcareer Association’s 2025 Industry Outlook, 91% of employers require or encourage certification for PCTs. You can earn professional certification through a wide variety of online programs.

If you’re ready to get started on your patient care technician career, consider speaking with an Excelsior admissions advisor today.

Excelsior University’s first doctoral program opens to enrollment

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y. – Excelsior University’s first doctoral degree program is now accepting applications, marking a historic milestone in the institution’s 55-year history. The new Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program expands Excelsior’s academic offerings and provides experienced professionals with a pathway to the highest level of business education. 

Designed for working professionals, the DBA combines flexible online coursework with two brief, impactful in-person residencies. Hosted in Excelsior’s home cities of Albany, New York, and St. Petersburg, Florida, these immersive experiences ensure valuable face-to-face networking, mentoring, and research support opportunities. The program equips students with advanced knowledge of business theories, research methods, and evidence-based practices, preparing them to become leaders in their fields. Learners can choose from DBA concentrations in Cybersecurity Operations, Data Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management, Finance and Accounting, Healthcare Management, Organizational Leadership, and Strategic Sustainability. 

Founded in 1971 with a mission to expand access to education, Excelsior has helped more than 200,000 students earn associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The introduction of the DBA program represents the next step in Excelsior’s continued evolution.  

“Opening Excelsior’s first doctoral degree to enrollment is a landmark moment for Excelsior University and the learners we serve,” said Excelsior University Provost and Chief Academic Officer Chris Cassirer. “Students can now pursue a complete educational journey at Excelsior, from certificates through a doctoral degree in business. The DBA reflects Excelsior’s commitment to lifelong learning and professional advancement, and it is only the first of several doctoral offerings we envision for the future.”  

“The DBA builds on Excelsior’s longstanding commitment to providing practical, career-focused education for working professionals,” said Brian Allen, dean of Excelsior University’s School of Business. “By combining the flexibility of online learning with meaningful in-person collaboration and mentorship, the program prepares experienced professionals to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their workplaces and industries.”  

Eligible applicants must hold a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, have a minimum of five years of professional experience, and have experience managing people and/or projects.  

Applications are open now for the inaugural cohort of the DBA program, with courses beginning on Jan. 4, 2027. Interested students can complete an application and learn more at excelsior.edu.  

Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446
  

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY 
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.   

Excelsior is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. Excelsior University’s academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs. 

Licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education (License No. 12928). Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, toll-free number: (888)-224-6684. 

Rico Nelson, Bachelor of Science in Business, 2022

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Rico Nelson of Columbus, Georgia, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business in 2022. He shares, “Since earning my B.A. in Human Resources in 2022 while on active duty, I was able to conclude my military career with the core values I learned while attending Excelsior University.

After an honorable discharge, I’ve pursued a purposeful entrepreneurial endeavor as an ordained minister. I’ve performed numerous marital ceremonies and holy unions. I also held two federal government positions.

I had an 18-month tenure as a United States Postal Service employee and served as a transportation security officer with the Department of Homeland Security.

These feats were accomplished after 20 years of honorable military service, which consisted of four combat deployments, one being an interagency deployment, an overseas assignment as an installation training facilitator for allied NATO forces, and a two-year assignment as a United States Army drill sergeant.

Despite a long and impactful career, I remain committed to serving with unwavering dedication.

As an alumnus from Excelsior University, I’ve continued to live the words that come from our alma mater: onward and upward.

Nearly a decade after obtaining my academic credentials with cum laude honors, I continue to adhere to the principles and knowledge acquired during my undergraduate studies.

Excellence is attainable with diligence, commitment, and a clear purpose. Identify your cause and why you aspire to surpass your previous day. My cause is my family. I stand as a pillar of hard work and determination, and I continue to be an example of ascension and progression. I desire my path to be followed, but I also aim to inspire others to discover their own unique paths.

No matter how arduous and daunting the journey may appear to be, once you arrive at your destination, you will see that it was worth it.

Every journey begins with a single step, and the belief that you can go onward and through your perseverance, you can go upward.”