Career Spotlight: Cybercrime Investigator

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

It is not hard to find news of a data breach or cybercrime these days. These attacks can seriously damage large organizations, companies, and even individuals. Do you find yourself interested in investigative stories and TV shows, but you are not sure you want to be front and center with the physical action? A cybercrime investigator position might be for you. Combine your passion for investigations and your education in computer science or cybersecurity to start your dream career.

What Is Cybercrime?

Cybercrime is any criminal activity that involves a computer, device, or network. There are several reasons why someone commits a cybercrime. A few include:

  • To generate a profit for the cybercriminal
  • To damage or disable a computer, device, or network
  • To spread malware
  • To share any illegal information, images, or other materials

    • Some cybercriminals combine crimes to create even more damage. An example of this is someone targeting a specific computer with a virus that will spread the virus to the entire network.

    Effects of cybercrimes can include financial problems, ransomware attacks, email and internet fraud, and identity fraud. While all these effects are serious, any financial-related attack can be detrimental to the individual or corporation.

    Defend against digital crime with a cybersecurity degree from Excelsior.

    Cybercrime Career Opportunities

    As great as technological advances are, this progress opens additional doors for cybercriminals. Because of this, corporations and organizations are hiring more cybersecurity professionals to monitor and ensure the safety of their network. And, if a cybercrime happens to their company, they have the people and resources to handle it.

    Some cybercrime career opportunities include:

  • Digital forensic examiner: They analyze computers and digital devices to discover how unauthorized people accessed that particular system.
  • IT auditor: They assess an organization’s technology for potential security issues.
  • Cybercrime specialists: They work directly with cybercrime investigators to protect a company’s network and devices.
  • Penetration tester: They help a business identify security weaknesses before malicious hackers can do the same. Often times, penetration testers do this by attempting to breach computer networks with the company’s permission.
  • Security engineer: They design systems to keep a company’s computers, networks, and data safe. This includes cyber attacks, natural disasters, and anything else that can disrupt a system.

    • While all these positions are extremely important to a cybersecurity team, they work primarily to prevent crimes from occurring. Cybercrime investigators work with cybersecurity teams once a crime has been committed to collect data and evidence to help solve these crimes.

    What Is a Cybercrime Investigator?

    Cybercrime investigators take the lead role in all investigations involving cybercrimes. Whether the cybercrime investigator works for the state or federal government, or private organization, job responsibilities typically include the following:

  • Analyze computer systems and networks after a cyber attack occurred
  • Recover data that was destroyed or damaged
  • Gather evidence and computer network information
  • Prepare reports for leadership and the general public
  • Train law enforcement on cyber-related issues
  • Assess software applications and networks for security flaws

    • Cybercrime investigators are also responsible for identifying and recommending methods to prevent a similar cybercrime from occurring again. According to Salary.com, cybercrime investigators in the United States make $56,000 a year. Experience, education, and the organization employed by for play a huge role in determining the salary.

    How to Become a CyberCrime Investigator

    A cybercrime investigator is a highly skilled and specially trained investigator who works with cybersecurity and police teams. Check out the steps to becoming a cybercrime investigator below:

      Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. A bachelor’s degree is required for almost all entry-level cybersecurity positions.
      Step 2: Join a cybersecurity or computer science team to gain valuable experience in the field. Experience will allow you to understand how cybercriminals work and grow your knowledge of investigation principles and practices, as well as to increase your potential for leadership positions.
      Step 3: Earn your master’s degree in cybersecurity from Excelsior University. A graduate degree combined with work experience will prepare you for a successful career as a cybercrime investigator.

    What is Diwali?

    Posted on by Pamela Jimenez

    Every year in October or November, Hindus around the world celebrate the five-day festival of lights known as Diwali.

    In India, Diwali is one of the largest holidays that honors a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Diwali is widely observed by over one billion people in India of different faiths and its diaspora, the five days of Diwali are highlighted by fireworks, prayers, feast, family gatherings, and charitable giving.

    The dates of the festival are determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, which marks each month by the time it takes the moon to orbit the Earth. Diwali begins just before the arrival of a new moon between the Hindu months of Asvina and Kartika which typically falls in October or November of the Gregorian calendar. This year it begins on October 22, with the most important date falling on October 24.

    While Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, it is also widely celebrated among Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists and there is no single story of origin. Each religion within the diaspora has its own historical narrative behind the holiday but they are all rooted in the victory of good over evil. In addition, legends of origin differ depending on the region in India. For example, in North India, Diwali commemorates Prince Rama’s triumphant return to the city of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile due to the plotting of his evil stepmother—and after a heroic rescue of his wife Sita, an incarnation of the goddess Lakshmi, who had been kidnapped by the rival king Ravana.

    Meanwhile in South India, Diwali celebrates the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura, who had imprisoned 16,000 women in his palace and administered hard punishments to any of his subjects who dared stand up against him. And in West India, the festival celebrates Vishnu’s banishment of King Bali—whose immense power had become a threat to the gods—to the underworld.

    Those that celebrate in America, bring the same tradition of prayers, family gatherings, and charitable giving, and hope that the next generation of Indian Americans will have enough connection to Diwali that they’ll continue observing it when they get older.

    Attending Online Classes on Mobile Devices

    Posted on by Caitlin Abram

    Most of us rely on our smartphones to run our lives. Chances are high that you’re reading this article on a phone right now. As ubiquitous as our favorite mobile devices have become, you might be thinking that learning online means you can do all your schoolwork from the comfort of your own phone as well. But is it really going to make things easier in your courses or will the disadvantages of smartphones outweigh the benefits?

    Benefits and Disadvantages of Smartphones in Online Learning

    Before picking a device to use, it’s helpful take a closer look at what smartphones are good at and what they’re not so good at when it comes to online learning.

    Online Courses Overview

    First, figure out what your needs are going to be. You should understand what you’ll be expected to do in your online courses and what technology platform your school uses to deliver course content.

    At the college level, courses are reading and writing intensive. In addition to spending a lot of your time reading course literature, researching, and writing papers, you’ll be logging on weekly to submit assignments, participate in classroom discussions, and interact with your classmates and instructors.

    You’ll need a device that can handle large file formats so you can collaborate on presentations and create assignments in a variety of different formats. Already, mobile phones are at a disadvantage here. Consider a laptop instead, with its comfortable keyboard, large screen, and built-in features like cameras and multiple ports for USB drives, memory cards, and ethernet cables.

    Disadvantages of Using a Smartphone in Online Learning

    Smartphones are small enough to go anywhere, and their portable size, while a benefit in daily life, is a definite disadvantage in online courses. They’re built more for consuming content and not necessarily creating it. Small screen size and no external keyboard means that you’re not going to be able to easily multitask and reference that pdf research paper while you work on a three-page response essay and draft an email to your instructor.

    Plus, while you can take your phone everywhere, you might find yourself stuck next to an outlet charging more often than you’d like, as streaming videos and viewing presentations can drain your battery fast.

    Another disadvantage of smartphones is that they use mobile apps and operating systems that might make fully viewing your course content more difficult and are much less likely to be compatible with all the programs you will need to use. Excelsior uses Canvas for its online courses and while the platform does have a mobile app, there’s no guarantee it will function correctly on all mobile devices and there’s no tech support for those using it.

    Great Ways to Use a Smartphone in Online Courses

    Just because a smartphone shouldn’t be the only device you use for school, that doesn’t mean you have to completely set it aside for your courses. Phones are still great for other things, like watching video content, listening to recorded lectures or podcasts, and taking quick notes as you study

    Your smartphone is also a great tool for organizing your assignment due dates, setting reminders, and planning your daily schedule so when you do sit down to do your coursework, you’re ready to give it your full attention.

    Make sure you check with your school’s tech support team to ask what devices they do and do not recommend for their online courses. Excelsior recommends a laptop or desktop as the primary device you should use for your courses, with mobile phones only to be used as a secondary device when needed.

    Want to learn more about Excelsior’s online courses? An admissions counselor can help answer your questions and choose the best next steps for your education goals.

    Don’t Be a Contract Cheat

    Posted on by Caitlin Abram

    It’s late on a Friday night after a long, difficult week. You’ve worked hard, you’re exhausted, and all you want to do is lie down.

    There is an essay due for class on Monday that’s been hanging over your head for days, but the weekend is completely booked and you have no idea when you’re going to be able to work on it. You like the course, the essay is really no big deal, and you’re confident that if you had even a second of free time you could write something great.

    You know the material, you just need the finished product. Just something to hand in. Just so it’s done.

    You Google the name of the topic and the word “essay” and are surprised at how many results come up. You know it’s technically cheating to use something you find, but it would be just this once and it’s just so easy…

    Nope, stop right there! You are definitely cheating—contract cheating.

    What Is Contract Cheating?

    Contract cheating is a more formal way of describing the academic crime of outsourcing your course work and turning it in as your own. This can be the exchange of assignments for money like paying for work from an online essay mill. However, contract cheating also encompasses downloading free essays or trading assignments with students in other classes with no payment involved.

    Unlike plagiarism, which includes using the words and ideas of others in your work without proper attribution, contract cheating means you have done no work at all. Even worse, while plagiarism is often accidental, contract cheating is premeditated and entirely intentional.

    A sneakier way that contract cheating happens is what the Academic Integrity Office at UC San Diego calls “toxic help.” Toxic help can be given and received and can involve posting course materials and completed assignments online, the use of professional ”homework help” sites, or having friends and family do your work for you. Toxic help can feel well-intentioned, but if “tutoring” or “editing” help turns into work you did not do yourself, you’re still contract cheating.

    5 Tips to Avoid Contract Cheating

    It goes without saying that contract cheating is a bad idea. You shouldn’t do it. If you do, and you get caught, you’ll face consequences that could range from failing your course to being expelled from your degree program. Academic institutions are increasingly aware of this type of cheating and have ways to search for work they suspect is not a student’s own. This does not mean the idea of contract cheating doesn’t pose a temptation. Here are five tips to help you stay honest.

  • Talk to Your Professors
    Students are moved to cheat by a lack of confidence in their own time or talent to do the work themselves. If you’re feeling this way, tell your instructor! They are here to help talk through your concerns and find solutions so you can feel prepared and ready to do your best work. Your instructor would much rather help you improve your own original work that have you submit a lie.
  • Resist the Urge to Help Too Much
    It can feel good to be the “expert” or the “smart one” everyone goes to when they need help with schoolwork, and it can feel equally as easy to just give out answers or write a whole assignment for a student in need. Recognize when helping turns toxic. You’re cheating your friend and yourself in the process.
  • Reduce Your Stress. Boost Your Motivation
    When even confident, successful students feel pressured by the demands of work and life, contract cheating can start to look like a safety net. Examine what causes the most stress around your assignment due dates and find ways to reduce it before it turns desperate. Remember why you’re in school in the first place and focus on your goals. Schedule dedicated schoolwork time, away from distractions, that’s just for you.
  • Be on the Lookout
    The internet has a way of telling on itself. If you see your course materials or suspiciously specific information about your courses’ exams and assignments start showing up online, let your school know and you could be helping to stop contract cheating before it starts.
  • Support Academic Integrity
    Maintain your awareness of academic integrity from assignment to assignment and throughout the year. The International Center for Academic Integrity has resources for students and educators to spread awareness of academic integrity and collaborate on solutions for solutions on contract cheating and related issues.

    • 5 Takeaways from NY NECANN Cannabis and Hemp Convention

    Posted on by Emily Miller

    Since March 31, 2021, and the legalization of recreational adult-use cannabis in New York, the cannabis industry has continued to evolve. The opening of Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licenses has thrown yet another change in the mix.

    According to Tremaine Wright, chair of the New York State Cannabis Control Board, the approach New York state has taken to the cannabis industry is as “uniquely New York” as a New York bagel.

    5 Takeaways from NY NECANN:

      1. New York is challenging businesses to think about cannabis holistically.

    In her keynote address to open the conference, Wright urged individuals to remember that cannabis is an industry first and foremost, and it must be integrated into existing industries. The cannabis industry will be able to learn from and borrow from other industries, like the food industry, for example, when it comes to low-cost packaging or supply chain management for distribution within the state from New York farmers and growers.

    When considering entering the cannabis industry in New York, Wright believes the key to success lies in staying authentic to the business you currently run. If you are a lawyer, consider including cannabis clients. If you are an accountant, get trained to be able to take on cannabis retail businesses. If you make skincare products, branch out to include CBD, hemp, and/or THC cannabis products. If you offer yoga and meditations, consider creating cannabis-infused experiences.

    Less talked about is that with this creation of industry, regulations have changed for both CBD and hemp, and both substances are included under the purview of the Office of Cannabis Management. Hemp business registration has fewer regulations than THC cannabis, with a retail license fee of $300.

      2. Social Equity is at the heart of the industry in New York state.

    The first round of licenses, CAURD licenses, allow for those who are “justice-involved,” meaning individuals who have prior marijuana convictions in New York state or family members impacted by marijuana convictions, to have the opportunity to start turnkey dispensary businesses. While some criticisms exist around this program, New York is the first state to adopt this approach to righting what the state and industry see as injustices. But it is just the first step. Still to come are retail application periods for women-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, and disabled veteran-owned businesses before opening licensing applications to the general public.

    At the end of the day, the need for social equity does not only lie on the business side of the industry but also on the consumer side through medical use. The proposed medical regulations that are currently up for public comment eliminate some of the stigma around cannabis use. Under these regulations, any provider who can write prescriptions can prescribe whole flower cannabis for any condition certified by the practitioner.

      3. Banking and taxation continue to be a complex issue for cannabis business.

    The original Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) offered proposed taxation levels that would be levied on cannabis products. As the office has had a full year to get its bearings, more regulations are being released every quarter. As the development of the retail side of the industry begins, cannabis-trained accountants stress the need for specialty trained and experienced professionals as a part of retail business plans and strategy. These issues are not to be solved by federal legalization, but are only made more complex if and when federal legalization comes through. Federal legalization could add additional taxes on top of the state-imposed taxes.

    Banking remains a challenge for cannabis businesses. According to a representative from Lighthouse Biz, a cannabis banking solution based in Massachusetts, the banking challenges stem from risk management and compliance. While the SAFE banking act has yet to fully pass through Congress and become law, it will go a long way in helping to make cannabis banking more accessible from other financial institutions and entities. For now, finding a bank willing to take the risk of doing business with cannabis business can be a challenge.

    The commerce industry can be hard to wrap your brain around. In Excelsior’s cannabis control certificate program course CBC 602 Complexities of Cannabis as Commerce, students learn to navigate the complexities of the cannabis industry and prepare real-world strategies as they relate to the shifting tax burdens.

      4. Regulation is key. You need to know how to read it and understand it.

    Every month new regulations are released on the New York State Office of Cannabis Management website for public comment. Most recently released were proposed regulations for laboratory testing, packaging, labeling, marketing, and advertising, as well as revised regulations for medical cannabis. According to Wright, New York is determined to learn from legalization efforts of other states and create a model that can be used as additional states legalize cannabis.

    As new and revised regulations are released, it can be confusing for those entering the industry or the average layperson to understand what they mean and the impact the regulation will have on their individual businesses. Following the public comment periods, the state has either made changes to the regulation and re-published or added frequently asked questions documents to provide clarity. Keeping all of these regulations straight can be a full-time job in and of itself. In Excelsior’s cannabis control certificate course, CBC 601 Implications of Legalization of Cannabis: Policy and Commerce, students learn about the impact of legalization regulations and attempt to navigate the dilemma between policy and current legal regimes.

      5. There’s room for legacy businesses to go legal.

    Ignoring the fact that many cannabis businesses have operated in the shadows for decades would be a mistake. However, for those operating around the legalities of cannabis, it can be hard to make the transition from legacy businesses and learn the right strategies and steps to going legal. For many who have operated legacy businesses, they may not qualify for CAURD licenses or this type of license may not be the best choice for them as they lose control over many aspects of the business, including the branding of their products. Legal and accounting services exist within the industry to help these legacy businesses legitimize.

    Career Spotlight: Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    As cybersecurity evolves, so do the number of threats and attacks a company may experience. Businesses need to have the appropriate resources to defend against these threats. Enter cybersecurity compliance. Cybersecurity compliance is risk management for businesses and organizations. It involves meeting various measures and controls, usually set in place by a regulatory authority, to protect a company’s data.

    The individual tasked with making sure an organization meets the certain requirements necessary to protect data is a cybersecurity compliance analyst, or simply, compliance analyst. Let’s take a closer look at this position.

    What Is a Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst and What Do They Do?

    A compliance analyst helps ensure an organization is complying with all laws, regulations, and standards related to information security.

    You can find compliance analysts in almost any industry, from health care and government, to finance and insurance.

    Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst Job Duties

    Depending on what industry a compliance analyst enters, some of their job duties may look different. For example, those in health care looks at medial compliance issues, such as those associated with HIPPA. In the financial sector, analysts might look at auditing expenses and accounting practices. However, there are many responsibilities that remain the same in any industry. Let’s explore some of them.

    • Document all procedures and policies
    • Develop workflows and procedures to meet standards of compliance
    • Investigate security breaches by performing forensic analysis of computer systems
    • Proactively stay up to date with rules and regulations
    • Review data security to ensure protection
    • Design a company’s compliance program
    • Analyze, identify, and solve compliance problems
    • Conduct compliance training for team members
    • Communicate compliance regulations to the team
    • Work as a subject-matter specialist on compliance issues
    • Develop security policies for new technology systems
    Get ready to meet growing industry demand with Excelsior’s BS in Cybersecurity.

    Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst Salary

    According to Glassdoor, the average salary of a compliance analyst is about $60,764, but the salary can range up to $151,000. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the employment of cybersecurity and information security analysts to grow 31 percent by 2029, which is significantly faster than other professions.

    Salary depends on the company and industry you work in, of course, as well as on your experience level and background.

    Let’s look at how you might be able to land this job.

    How to Become a Cybersecurity Compliance Analyst

    To become a compliance analyst, many employers prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, IT, or a related field. Excelsior’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Operations can help prepare you to enter the cybersecurity field by enhancing your knowledge and skills in technology.

    Although it’s not required, a master’s degree is certainly preferable. It’s important to be proficient in compliance, so it’s good to have previous experience in compliance, auditing, or another regulatory field. In addition, there are a number of other skills that make a good compliance analyst. Here are some of them:

    • Computer skills, including proficiency in many programs and systems
    • Good problem-solving skills
    • Excellent interpersonal communication
    • Able to think critically in difficult situations
    • Detail-oriented
    • Ability to research current rules and regulations
    • Ability to multitask
    • Organizational skills

    Does a cybersecurity compliance analyst sound like the career for you? Talk to an Excelsior admissions counselor today to get started on your educational path.

    What Can You Do with a Master’s in Criminal Justice?

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    Are you detail-oriented and already working in a criminal justice field? Do you have a passion for true crime shows? Maybe you’re a police officer looking for some advancement in your career. If any of these ring true, you may want to look at pursuing a master’s in criminal justice.

    A master’s degree in criminal justice can help you advance in your career, whether that is moving forward in your current position or exploring other roles. With a higher degree, you have more opportunities to advance in the public sector, work for private companies and organizations, or to branch out on your own, such as working as a private investigator.

    Let’s take a deeper look at a master’s in criminal justice and what you can do with this degree.

    Why Should I Get a Master’s in Criminal Justice?

    The criminal world is evolving and so is our need for professionals to address threats. A master’s degree prepares people to advance their justice careers and play an important role in defending and supporting their communities. There are other benefits to earning this higher degree, such as:

    • A master’s in criminal justice can help improve your critical thinking skills. The field of criminal justice requires a lot of studying, analyzing, and thinking. A master’s degree can help you hone your critical thinking skills so you are better prepared to move up in your career.
    • A master’s in criminal justice can enhance your communication skills. Working with a team is often necessary in criminal justice, so the better you can communicate, the more valuable you can be. A master’s degree program is often writing intensive, which gives you practice to hone your written communications skills.
    • A master’s in criminal justice can help you earn more. A Georgetown University study reported that master’s degree holders earn up to $17,000 more than people who have only a bachelor’s degree. In criminal justice, a higher degree means more money for you.
    • A master’s in criminal justice can help you be competitive. With an advanced degree, you improve your qualifications and are well-prepared to apply for higher-up positions.

    It looks like a master’s in criminal justice is worth pursuing, but what jobs can you expect to land with this degree?

    Jobs You Can Obtain with a Master’s in Criminal Justice

    Jobs that require a master’s in criminal justice are found throughout law enforcement. Some typical jobs include criminal profiler, criminologist, forensic psychologist, and forensic examiner. Here’s a closer look at these and other positions:

    • Forensic psychologist. Forensic psychologists typically work with convicted inmates to assess their mental health status. They also conduct investigations and research studies, and design treatment programs, as well as provide expert witness testimony in court, among other responsibilities.
    • Criminologist. Simply put, criminologists study crime. They study the causes of crime and make recommendations to support public policy and law enforcement. They often conduct interviews, analyze data, and use statistics and other means of exploration.
    • Emergency management director. At the state, local, and federal levels, an emergency management director creates emergency plans for the public’s safety. This also includes coordinating and amending plans as necessary.
    • DEA agent. DEA agents enforce drug laws, investigate drug-related crimes, and work to prevent the distribution of illegal drugs.
    • Attorney general investigator. An attorney general investigator investigates criminal activity and collects evidence for attorneys to use to prosecute suspected criminals. They also conduct interviews, coordinate investigations, carry out research, and compile documents and reports to use in court.
    • Probation officer. A probation officer is in charge of making sure individuals recently released from prison or jail do not commit any additional crimes.
    • Cybercrime investigator. A cybercrime investigator works to identify individuals who use online databases and websites to commit crimes. These investigators may explore the hard drives of confiscated computers to recover data and files.

    With a master’s degree in criminal justice, you can be well-positioned to enter or enhance your current career within the justice system. Whether you choose to focus on law enforcement at the local level or want to have role in policy making, a master’s in criminal justice can help you reach your goals. Excelsior’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice will help you advance your career by helping you to develop expertise critical for the administration of criminal justice, homeland security, and emergency management agencies in the United States. The ability to understand multiple perspectives and make ethical decisions are skills that can elevate a passion for criminal justice into a lasting career.

    What Is a Criminologist?

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    A degree in criminal justice can open doors for you in a variety of careers. Traditionally, people with a criminal justice degree work in law enforcement or support the law enforcement community in other ways. One career path you can take with a criminal justice degree is a criminologist.

    What Is a Criminologist?

    A criminologist is a professional who researches and studies crime to prevent and reduce it from occurring. They use statistics from previous crimes to provide data to other law enforcement professionals with the intent that it will help to create a solution for crimes. They focus on why and how certain crimes are happening, and research people who are committing the crimes.

    What Does a Criminologist Do?

    Criminologists study crime patterns and create possible solutions to prevent these from happening in the future. They work closely with law enforcement officials and even help to create laws and policies aimed to reduce crime. Depending on what specialty they go into, criminologists can study violent crime, white-collar crime, property crime, organized crime, victimless crime, and more.

    Typically, a criminologist’s job responsibilities include:

    • Study criminal behavior and environmental factors of crime
    • Identify crime patterns
    • Administer surveys and interviews
    • Organize statistical data and present to other law enforcement officials
    • Create policy recommendations
    • Collaborate with other law enforcement officials

    Criminologists often write research papers and articles on the crimes they are studying. In addition to these responsibilities, criminologists may also examine the effect that corrections has on crime and suggest new ideas and laws to increase their success.

    Learn how stop crime before it starts with Excelsior’s MS in Criminal Justice.

    Where Do Criminologists Work?

    Criminologists can work for a various organizations. Most commonly, they work for government agencies at the state and federal level, as well as at colleges and universities.

    You can find criminologists in the following work environments:

    • Government office. In this environment, criminologists work as researchers and collaborate with law officials depending on the project they are working on.
    • College or university classroom. Criminologists can teach courses in psychology, criminal justice, criminology, sociology, or a related field. They also can conduct research at the university or college at which they are employed.
    • In the field. You may find criminologists inspecting crime scenes, interviewing criminals or victims, and visiting locations like prisons or high-crime public areas.

    How to Become a Criminologist:

    What Degree Do You Need to Be a Criminologist?

    Criminologists must earn at least a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, sociology, or a related field. With this degree, you will learn how to study and implement criminology in the field you decide to enter. Now more than ever, most hiring managers are looking for criminologists with a master’s degree, especially as these positions are growing and becoming popular. Working in high-level government positions as well as teaching at a university or college will require a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. .

    There are no official licenses a criminologist needs to practice in their field; however, work experience will increase your chances of obtaining a position as a criminologist. Previous work experience as criminal specialists, forensic data specialists, research assistants, and other related positions will set you apart as a candidate for a criminology position.

    Criminologists Skills Needed

    Hiring managers look for the following skills for criminologist job candidates:

    • High interest in behavioral patterns and human nature
    • Strong knowledge of math, computer science, and statistics
    • Excellent research and analytical skills
    • Strong communication skills
    • Sharp observational skills
    • Strong investigative skills

    In addition to these skills, criminologists must be able to act objectively and possess a high level of integrity when analyzing evidence.

    Criminologist Job Outlook and Salary

    According to Payscale, criminologists make $48,919 per year in the United States. In most cases, criminologists are combined with sociologists’ job outlook data. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate is projected to grow 4 percent by 2029.

    Earn your master’s in criminal justice completely online with Excelsior University to start your career as a criminologist today. .

    Career Spotlight: Human Resources Coordinator

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    A career in human resources is both rewarding and challenging. You are in a position to influence, make real change within an organization, and create a healthy and happy work environment for employees. If this sounds like something you are looking for, a career as a human resources coordinator is a great start. Human resources coordinators are the backbone of not only the human resources department, but also the entire organization. They provide support to all aspects of the human resources function, which allows coordinators to find what they love and want to focus on long term.

    What Is a Human Resources Coordinator?

    Human resources coordinators are responsible for facilitating all human resources processes within their organization. They play a key role within an organization for both the human resources department and current employees. They usually report to the human resources director and function as their assistant.

    The goal of a human resources coordinator is to support the improvement of human resources policies, processes, and practices, and provide a safe space for current employees if an issue arises. While job descriptions can vary depending on the industry, in most places, human resources coordinators support the following initiatives:

    • Employee Relations
    • Compensation and Benefits
    • Labor Negotiations
    • Recruitment and Employee Retention
    • Onboarding and Training Practices
    Ready to start your career in human resources? Learn more about Excelsior’s BS in Business program.

    What Does a Human Resources Coordinator Do?

    Human resources coordinators are similar to human resources generalists as they will assist in multiple projects at once. This is great for people who are looking to learn more about the human resources field but are not sure what specialization they want to pursue. Check out the following job responsibilities of human resources coordinators across all industries:

    • Assist with recruitment of new employees. This can include identifying qualified candidates, administrative support within the new hire process, and being the first face new a prospective employees sees.
    • General administration and coordination. This includes answering all internal and external human resources questions, assisting with payroll administration, maintaining employee records, and scheduling meetings and events for the human resources leadership team.
    • Performance management and retention Coordinators will schedule and organize all materials for performance reviews, as well as maintain performance management procedures.
    • Assist with employee benefits. Coordinators are the go-to person for employees with benefits questions. They are the liaison between employees and insurance providers, as well as track benefit plans and report on new policies and procedures.
    • Report and provide recommendations. This includes conducting audits of human resources programs, generating reports, and recommending potential processes to improve efficiency.
    • Provide support to the human resources director. Coordinators support the human resources director with any necessary projects.

    HR Coordinator Qualifications

    Now that you have learned all about human resources coordinators, you are probably wondering how to become one. Human resources coordinator positions tend to require a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, business management, or a related field. This is a great entry-level position in the human resources field. A combination of your education and work experience will make you a great candidate for this position.
    Hiring managers also look for important qualities, including but not limited to:

    • Decision-making skills. You must be able to maintain sound judgment when reviewing applicants, policies, and procedures.
    • Detail oriented. As a coordinator, you will be working on sensitive and important information where details matter. You must be meticulous to ensure policies and procedures are done correctly.
    • Interpersonal skills. Coordinators will interact with different people constantly. Being able to converse and connect with people with various backgrounds is key to being a successful coordinator.
    • Communication skills. As a coordinator, you will be listening and speaking to many people. You need to be able to convey information correctly and respond to questions and comments from prospective employees, employers, and current employees.
    • Strong prioritization. Coordinators will support multiple projects from different coworkers at one time. It is imperative to prioritize to ensure projects are getting done in a timely manner.

    HR Resources Coordinator Salary Range

    According to Salary.com, the salary for human resources coordinators ranges from $45,846 to $57,564 in the United States. Jobs within human resources departments are expected to grow 8 percent by 2031, which is must faster than all other occupations.

    Earn your degree in business management or business completely online at Excelsior University to get started in this growing field.

    Entry-Level Logistics Jobs for Bachelor’s Graduates

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    You earned your bachelor’s degree and with your excellent organizational skills, great attention to detail, and ability to think critically in high pressure situations, you’re well-suited to pursue a career in logistics. Logisticians oversee the entire life cycle of a company’s products, from acquisition to delivery.

    Since logistics is necessary in nearly every industry, you can find logisticians working in various manufacturing, production, and distribution businesses. Logisticians oversee inventory, purchasing, warehousing, and transportation duties along the supply chain.

    Before we go too far, let’s take a step back and focus on that: the supply chain. You might often hear logistics and supply chain management spoken in the same sentence, or often used interchangeably. There are several important things to note when talking just about logistics.

    Logistics Versus Supply Chain Management

    The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals says logistics is, “part of the supply chain process that plans, implements and controls the efficient, effective forward and reverse flow and storage of goods, services and related information between the point of origin and the point of consumption in order to meet customer’s requirements.”

    Let’s break that down further. Logistics can be considered as part of the supply chain process. According to Oracle NetSuite, supply chain management includes the processes that create the finished goods and deliver them to customers while logistics includes storing and moving the goods along the supply chain.

    Both logistics and supply chain management are important to the supply chain process because they involve maintenance of the flow of goods along the supply chain. The difference is that logistics plays a role in supply chain management. Logisticians need to make sure goods and services reach the customer in a satisfactorily manor.

    Some components of the role of logistics in supply chain management are:

  • Ensuring the products arrive at the correct time
  • Tracking the status of items
  • Helping to reduce costs of delivering goods
  • Storing and holding the supplies at the right location
  • Ensuring proper packaging so items arrive undamaged
  • Improving efficiency along the transportation process
  • Helping to retain customers and increase loyalty
  • Providing the most cost-effective way to deliver goods from one place to another

    • As you can see, supply chain management cannot operate correctly without a logistician carefully overseeing the details.

    Pursuing a Career in Logistics

    Most employers prefer to hire candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in a business field, preferably emphasizing logistics or supply chain management. A bachelor’s degree helps you learn about core business areas and will also open the door for you to gain hands-on experience. Excelsior’s Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business and Management is a great way for students to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to enter the world of logistics.

    Besides the appropriate education, there are certain skills you should possess if you want to become a logistician. Since anything can happen in the supply chain industry, you need to be quick on your feet and a quick thinker. Here are other important traits to have:

  • Know how to manage various projects at the same time
  • Understand information technology and the latest computer software
  • Keep up with the changing market dynamics
  • Have good interpersonal communication skills
  • Possess good problem-solving skills and ability to think under pressure
  • Know how to manage stress

    • What Logistics Jobs Can I Get with a Bachelor’s Degree?

    Recent graduates with a bachelor’s degree can find work in a variety of industries. Here are a few entry-level positions that might pique your interest:

  • Supply Chain Analyst. Supply chain analysts work in manufacturing, food, government, and technology fields, studying data to ensure that a company’s supply chain systems are running efficiently. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary is $77,000.
  • Logistics Engineer. Logistics engineers help plan projects, set timelines, and help resolve any problems with regards to contracts. According to BLS, the median annual salary is $74,623.
  • Freight Forwarder. A freight forwarder is a company or person who organizes the shipments of goods and services for a company. They work closely with shippers and manufacturers, insurance companies, and warehouse facilities, and must have working knowledge of technology. According to BLS reports, the median annual salary is $44,420.
  • Industrial Production Manager. An industrial production manager helps coordinate, plan, supervise, and direct the activities used in creating a range of goods. The median annual salary is $103,150, as reported by BLS.
  • Junior Buyer. Junior buyers are responsible for finding and purchasing products from vendors and manufacturers on behalf of the company they work for. According to BLS, the median annual salary is $72,540.

    • The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that logistics careers will expand by 30 percent between 2020 and 2030, adding about 24,500 new jobs every year through this decade.

    If you think you have the skills to pursue a career in logistics, consider pursuing a business degree with Excelsior today!

    Career Spotlight: Pharmacy Technician

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    You know when you go to the pharmacy and there are staff working steadily behind the counter, stocking medications, answering telephone calls, and helping customers at the counter update their medical history in the computer? Well, those people are pharmacy technicians, and they are an integral part of the pharmacy team. Pharmacy technicians work directly with pharmacists to help serve customers.

    Where Do Pharmacy Technicians Work?

    Pharmacy technicians work in a variety of places, including:

  • Retail pharmacies–In retail pharmacies, pharmacy technicians fill prescriptions, provide vaccinations, and educate customers on basic health matters.
  • Compounding pharmacies–Pharmacy technicians in compounding pharmacies work in laboratory settings, in highly sterile, controlled environments where they can create alternatives to various forms of medications. This includes custom dosages, adding flavors, deleting an ingredient someone may be allergic to, and combining medications or supplements.
  • Hospitals–In hospital settings, pharmacy technicians help fill orders for patients and ensure they are delivered to the right places.
  • Nursing homes and extended care–In nursing homes and extended-care facilities, pharmacy technicians ensure patients get the medication they need.
  • Military–Pharmacy technicians serving in the U.S. Army help mix and fill prescriptions, maintain records, and carry out administrative duties.
  • Mail-order pharmacies–Pharmacy technicians working for mail-order pharmacies focus on the medical and administrative side of their roles because interaction largely takes place over the phone and online.

    • Pharmacy Technician Duties

    Pharmacy technicians are often the friendly faces at the pharmacy counter that locate our prescriptions and help us check out. But they do many other things too; they fill and label prescriptions, help answer customer’s questions, and maintain records. Let’s take a look at some of their other daily duties:

  • Assemble, stock, and distribute medications
  • Sort and label medications
  • Process prescriptions electronically
  • Refer various inquiries to the pharmacist
  • Comply with rules, regulations, and procedures to maintain a clean and safe pharmacy
  • Prepare and distribute patient medications
  • Perform calculations
  • Collect accurate patient information
  • Process third-party billing claims
  • Maintain patient records, medication inventory, and orders

    • It’s important to note that state laws specifically outline the duties that pharmacy technicians can perform.

    Pharmacy Technician Requirements

    Good pharmacy technicians are, above all, personable and helpful in nature. They are responsible for interacting with customers and making sure those customers have a good experience. Let’s take a look at some other requirements of a pharmacy technician:

  • Problem-solving skills
  • Supply management skills
  • Good team player
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Great organizational skills
  • Advanced written and verbal communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Mathematical skills
  • Computer skills

    • Pharmacy Technician Educational Requirements

    In addition to the skills listed above, there are educational requirements you need to become a pharmacy technician. Many employers require candidates to have at least an associate degree in pharmacy technology or a related field, but many others still prefer candidates hold a bachelor’s degree.

    Excelsior University’s bachelor’s in health sciences program covers the scope of responsibilities related to a spectrum of health care careers, and teaches students how to succeed in roles at treatment centers, public health agencies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other medical service or nonclinical health organizations.

    With Excelsior’s generous transfer policy, you can also transfer up to 24 credits when you complete the pharmacy technician certification.

    Pharmacy Technician Certification

    Depending on the state or employer, you may need to obtain the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) National Certification. Excelsior’s online Pharmacy Technician Training prepares you for this exam and helps you complete an externship.

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technicians earn an annual salary of $32,700 and demand for these professionals will grow 12 percent through 2028—that equates to over 30,000 new jobs! If you’d like to enter this growing career field, check out Excelsior’s health sciences program to get started.