Ramadan

Posted on by Pamela Jimenez

Ramadan is a holy month created for fasting, time with loved ones, and prayer, including asking forgiveness of sins. Fasting is a pillar of Islam and also occurs elsewhere in the Islamic calendar, but it is mainly associated with the month of Ramadan. During Ramadan, all those of able body and sound mind, including those who have reached puberty, fast from dawn until sunset and abstain from liquids, food, negative thoughts, and bad intentions. In the evening, they break their fast with Maghrib prayer and a meal (Iftar) often celebrated with friends and family.

Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, which means “festival of breaking the fast” when translated from Arabic. Eid al-Fitr celebrations vary from country to country, but some include spending time with family and friends, giving gifts, giving to the less fortunate, and enjoying feasts and traditional food.

On behalf of the Center for Social Justice, we wish all Muslim members of our community, Ramadan Mubarak! May you all have a blessed Ramadan!

More Resources about Ramadan:

Source: https://www.muslimaid.org/what-we-do/religious-dues/when-is-ramadan/
https://studentlife.mit.edu/orsel/interfaith-understanding/about-ramadan-2023

Career Spotlight: Office Manager

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Sometimes an office can seem like a well-oiled machine. Other times, unexpected problems arise. Printers run out of ink, mail systems are disrupted, deadlines pass by, and phones go unanswered…it can get messy! It helps to have someone around to take the reins and get things back on track.

Enter office managers. These professionals are responsible for improving the overall organization and productivity of an office.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports an annual wage of $38,050 for office and administrative support occupations, which includes office managers. Although the BLS projects a 4 percent decline in this field from 2021 to 2031, about 2.2 million positions are expected for employment due to the need to replace workers.

If you’re organized, productive, and crave seamless productivity in office settings, becoming an office manager might fit in with your career goals. Read on to learn more about this position.

What Is an Office Manager?

Officer managers work for various businesses, from large corporations to small businesses. They are professionals who make sure everything in the office runs smoothly by carrying out various managerial, administrative, financial, and physical tasks.

What Does an Office Manager Do?

Office managers work with administrative assistants, human resources personnel, directors, receptionists, and other professionals to manage daily administrative duties. These duties include maintaining appropriate amounts of office supplies, scheduling meetings, recruiting and training other employees, managing computer systems, performing customer service, and completing many other clerical duties that are intended to ensure the office runs productively and efficiently.

Let’s take a look at some of the specific things an office manager does.

Open doors to more opportunity with a BS in Business. Get started today.

Office Manager Duties and Responsibilities

An office manager’s responsibilities may vary depending on the business they work for, but essentially, they have similar tasks. Some of these are:

  • Scheduling meetings and appointments
  • Communicating with visitors
  • Organizing the office layout
  • Ensuring items are invoiced and paid on time
  • Managing filing systems, office supplies, and order inventories
  • Overseeing staff interactions and reporting to management
  • Assisting with hiring new employees
  • Working with facility management, including cleaning and security
  • Planning activities like parties, celebrations, and conferences
  • Answering telephone calls and emails from customers and clients
  • Creating an office budget
  • Arranging travel processes and travel expenses
  • Ensuring employees meet deadlines and company standards
  • Counseling employees having difficulties

How to Become an Office Manager

If becoming an office manager is starting to sound appealing, don’t start applying to open jobs just yet. There are a few requirements to meet to pursue this career.</p?

Typically, you must obtain higher education—a bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications, or a related field will set you up well. Second, up to five years of experience in an office setting will show potential employers that you know your way around an office and are used to the various activities that occur in that environment. Last, while not required, earning a certification will further set you apart from the rest of the pack when you’re applying for jobs. There are several professional associations that offer certification programs. These include the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers’ Office Manager Certification, the Institute of Certified Professional Managers’ Certified Manager Certification, and the International Public Management Association for Human Resource (IPMA-HR) Certified Professional credential.

It should also be noted that organizational skills, time management skills, interpersonal communication skills, computer skills, and attention to detail are some of the desired qualities you should possess.

Office Manager Education Requirements

As mentioned, a bachelor’s degree is usually the desired degree for employment as an office manager, though some employers may only require an associate degree or even a high school diploma or GED. It’s important to check with the business to which you are applying.

Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Business program can help you gain skills you can use on the job in areas including accounting, business strategy, communication, computer skills, economics, business ethics, finance, global business, leadership, management, marketing, data analysis, and teamwork and cultural diversity. You can learn how to read corporate financial statements, analyze business data, create marketing plans, communicate in the workplace, and collaborate with others to complete real-world projects. The Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business and Management program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) and will provide you with coursework in accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, employee relations, leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce. Both degree programs are appropriate choices if you would like to prepare for a career as an office manager.

If becoming an office manager sounds like the career choice for you, consider speaking with an Excelsior admissions counselor to get started on a path toward a business degree.

Career Spotlight: Nurse Manager

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Nurse managers are, first and foremost, registered nurses who often work with patients, but they also have an important role behind the scenes. They play a crucial role in making sure a health care facility runs efficiently and in supervising the nursing staff.

What Are Nurse Managers?

You can find nurse managers in almost any health care setting, from hospitals and doctor’s offices to urgent care centers and nursing homes. They have a variety of responsibilities, but they are predominantly responsible for overseeing the nursing staff and working with physicians to provide the best care possible for patients.

Nurse managers are often called nurse administrators because they are responsible for many administrative duties, including staffing, supervising, and organizing other nurses in a health care unit. They make important personnel-related decisions and communicate with upper-management and other departments. They coordinate with other health professionals to organize and decide on daily patient care.

If you are a registered nurse but also have knack for business and management, a career as a nurse manager might be for you. Let’s take a deeper look at this position.

Nurse Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Nurse managers have many roles because they not only have the duties of a nurse, but also have duties that can be found in supervisory or human resources roles. Some duties include:

  • Recruit and interview nursing staff
  • Train new nurses
  • Create work schedules for staff
  • Develop educational programs
  • Manage budgets and finances related to the nursing staff
  • Manage sensitive paperwork like medical records
  • Oversee medical supply inventory
  • Carry out disciplinary action
  • Manage and supervise RNs, CNAs, LPNs, and medical clerks
  • Work with physicians to assist patients and family members
  • Act as liaison between staff and other departments/units/teams
  • Communicate between administration and nursing staff
  • Assist patient and families in escalated situations

Nurse Manager Skills

You may have guessed that to be a nurse manager, you must be ready and willing to switch the so-called “hat” quickly throughout the day, at any time. As such, successful nurse managers possess qualities and skills that include:

  • Emotional intelligence
  • Leadership skills
  • Good time management
  • Excellent clinical knowledge
  • Good organizational skills
  • Problem solving skills
  • Ability to be flexible
Ready to make a difference? Start your BS in Nursing at Excelsior.

How to Become a Nurse Manager

To become a nurse manager, there are several requirements you must meet. Those interested in the position must earn an associate degree in nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse. They must then earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Though not necessarily required, many nurse managers then go on to earn a master’s degree. It’s also important that a candidate earns as much experience as an RN as they can before applying to higher positions. Many places require at least five years of experience. It should also be noted that nurse managers need to be certified. See the section below for more details about certifications.

Education Requirements for Nurse Managers

As mentioned, the first educational requirement you must meet on your path to becoming a nurse manager is to become a registered nurse. Once you do, the next higher education level you must pass is earning a bachelor’s degree. Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program will help you build on prior learning and gain knowledge that will prepare you for graduate study and the pursuit of lifelong learning, which is essential for practice in the nursing profession.

Though optional, earning a master’s in nursing is highly desired by employers, so it is recommended that those pursuing a career in nurse management earn this degree. Excelsior’s Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Administration of Health Care Systems program empowers you with the skills and knowledge you need to play a vital role in health care systems, have a seat at the executive table, and have an influential voice when essential decisions are made about health care. This is an excellent choice if you’re pursuing a career as a nurse manager.

Nurse Manager Certification

In addition to meeting the higher education requirements, those wishing to become a nurse manager must meet certification requirements. The American Organization of Nurse Executives offers two certifications that you can choose from: the Certified in Executive Nursing Practice and the Certified Nurse Manager and Leader.

Nurse Manager Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $101,340 as of May 2021. The BLS predicts employment in this field will grow 28 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations. This is due to an older workforce retiring and many positions opening up and needing to be filled.

If a career as a nurse manager aligns with your goals, consider speaking with a Excelsior admissions counselor to get started on a nursing degree.

Career Spotlight: District Attorney Investigator

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

District attorney investigators play an important role in the criminal justice field. They investigate criminal complaints and help bring cases to court. If you’re passionate about truth and justice, a career as a district attorney might fit in with your criminal justice goals.

What Is a District Attorney Investigator?

District attorney investigators represent the district attorney’s office of a particular county or judicial district in a state. They are detail-oriented, independent, and resilient law officers responsible for conducting criminal investigations for misdemeanor and felony cases as well as for preparing those cases for hearings and trials. They are responsible for interviewing witnesses and suspects, preparing search and arrest warrants, preparing testimonies for court, and overall, having an excellent working knowledge of local, state, and federal laws.

What Does a District Attorney Investigator Do?/h3>

A district attorney investigator’s specific duties vary depending on their location and the district attorney’s office for which they work. Generally, they share many of the same duties and responsibilities. Let’s take a look at some of them:

  • Investigating cases assigned by the district attorney
  • Serving subpoenas and summonses
  • Executing search and arrest warrants
  • Obtaining and documenting evidence and arranging forensic testing
  • Investigating crime scenes and gathering evidence
  • Interviewing witnesses and others involved in cases
  • Collaborating with prosecutors in preparation for trial
  • Appearing in court and delivering testimony
  • Preparing photographs, sketches, and other materials for court
  • Representing the district attorney’s office in meetings
  • Collaborating with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies
  • Reviewing and analyzing data to identify patterns in criminal activities
  • Ensuring compliance with federal and state laws

How to Become a District Attorney Investigator

Just as the job duties vary for district attorney investigators, so do the job requirements. The qualifications to become a district attorney investigator vary depending on the state, county, and position. Usually the steps to become this kind of investigator include obtaining higher education, up-to-date police training, a valid driver’s license, anywhere from two to more than five years of previous law enforcement experience, and knowledge of current laws and regulations.

Education Requirements for District Attorney Investigators

The minimum higher education requirements necessary to become a district attorney investigator is a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement, criminology, criminal justice, or a related field. A master’s degree can put you in an even better position to potential employers. Excelsior University’s Master of Science in Criminal Justice
program can help you advance your criminal justice career by developing expertise for the administration of criminal justice, homeland security, and emergency management agencies in the United States. You can learn how to address legal and ethical dilemmas in the workplace, analyze crime statistics, and discover how to develop effective crime-fighting strategies based on your findings. You will study the police, courts, corrections, and the history of criminology as you conduct criminal justice research projects and write data-based reports that can be used to create new or improved public policies.

District Attorney Investigator Salary

According to Payscale.com, the average annual salary for a district attorney investigator is $65,817, but the salary can range from $54,663 to $82,458. This range is due to various factors, including but limited to level of education, skills, years of experience, and location.

If becoming a district attorney investigator aligns with your career goals, consider discussing pursuing a master’s degree in criminal justice with a Excelsior admissions counselor.

Career Spotlight: Logistics Engineer

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Logistics engineers oversee the planning, organizing, and management of supply chains. In other words, they are responsible for making sure products get from point A to point B as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Logistics engineers are successful at their job because they can use their technical and scientific background to develop solutions to improve the manufacturing and distribution of products. The field of logistics also involves management, so these engineers often have background knowledge in sales and management.

If you like working with hard data and facts, read on to see if a career in logistics engineering matches your goals.

What Is Logistics Engineering?

So what is logistics engineering? To put it simply, it is the umbrella term that covers the field of engineering responsible for designing, purchasing, transporting, operating, distributing, maintaining, and warehousing finished goods and products. As you may have guessed, it is a complex discipline that requires attention to detail and a good technical background.

What Does a Logistic Engineer Do?

As mentioned, logistics engineers oversee the supply chain. Let’s take a look at some of the more specific responsibilities and roles they take on.

  • Developing and maintaining relationships with vendors
  • Reviewing data to find potential problems and to suggest solutions
  • Conducting research on new technologies
  • Conducting logistics studies
  • Developing and implementing plans for transporting materials
  • Developing logistic metrics, internal analysis tools, or key performance indicators
  • Collaborating on supply chain procedures
  • Developing plans for improving efficiency
  • Customizing and implementing supply chain management software
  • Ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations
  • Training and overseeing employees
  • Staying aware of developments in supply chain engineering

In addition to the above, some logistics engineers may also see to daily facility needs and contractual obligations, and oversee the maintenance and logistics of certain equipment.

How to Become a Logistics Engineer?

There are certain requirements for becoming a logistics engineer. First and foremost is a bachelor’s degree in business, management, logistics, or a similar field. You may choose to specialize in a particular area of logistics like transportation, so it’s important to also take courses specific to your area.

It’s also important to gain experience. One way you can do this by interning, volunteering, or working in the transportation industry at a shipping or trucking company, or in transportation for a manufacturer. This will show potential employers that you are familiar with the way logistics in business runs.

Furthermore, you may also choose to demonstrate your skills and knowledge by earning a professional certification, like the Certification in Transportation and Logistics (CTL) offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (ASTL) or the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). Earning a certification is optional, but it will certainly make you stand out from the crowd.

Logistics Engineer Qualifications

Just like there are certain steps you must take to become a logistics engineer, there are also certain skills you should possess. Let’s take a look at some of them.

  • Communication skills: The ability to communicate verbally and nonverbally with other engineers, managers, clients, and suppliers.
  • Technical skills: Having the knowledge of software, hardware, and machinery necessary to fulfill your responsibilities as a logistics engineer.
  • Analytical skills: The ability to solve problems and make decisions. In logistics engineering, this refers to analyzing and evaluating how a system should work and identifying actions needed to improve performance.
  • Problem-solving skills: Finding solutions to complex problems that may arise.
  • Organizational skills: Keeping track of projects and tasks, as well as tools and resources, in an structured and efficient way.

Logistics Engineer Education Requirements

The educational requirement to become a logistics engineer is a bachelor’s degree, although a master’s degree is a bonus. Excelsior’s Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) in Business and Management program includes coursework in accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, employee relations, leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce. The Bachelor of Science in Business program helps you gain skills you can use in areas including accounting, business strategy, communication, computer skills, economics, business ethics, finance, global business, leadership, management, marketing, data analysis, teamwork, and cultural diversity. Both programs are appropriate choices if you want to start on the path toward becoming a logistics engineer.

How Much Do Logistics Engineers Make?

Logistic engineer salaries vary depending on education, experience, and the size of the company. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the 2021 average salary for logisticians, a field that includes logistics engineers, was $77,030 per year.

The BLS projects about 24,800 openings for logisticians each year over the next decade. The total employment of this position is projected to grow 28 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This is most likely due to the need of companies to improve their supply chains and reduce costs. So the good news is that logistics engineers will consistently be needed to help design and manage efficient supply chains so companies can transport products effectively.

If a career as a logistics engineer sounds in line with your plans, consider talking with an Excelsior admissions counselor to get started on a business degree.

Career Spotlight: Clinical Informaticist

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Clinical informatics is the field in health care that applies information technology to improve the health of people and communities and improve patient safety. Clinical informaticists, or clinical informatics specialists, use their knowledge to create data systems, analyze information, and help store and maintain important health data for other health care personnel.

Driven by the use of data, clinical informaticists play a critical role in nursing because the use of technology in health care can help nurses teach and exchange health information, increase productivity, stay up to date with current trends in health care, and improve patient safety.

If you’re a registered nurse or planning to become one and have a flair for technology, read on to see if a career as a clinical informaticist is a good match for you.

What Is a Clinical Informaticist?

Simply put, clinical informaticists manage the IT of health care. They design, modify, and organize computer systems and make sure records management systems run efficiently and effectively. Part of their job involves helping clinicians and other health care providers understand data and technology.

You can find clinical informaticists in a variety of places, including hospitals, insurance companies, physicians’ offices, research centers, and other health care facilities. While they usually work on site, they sometimes travel, depending on their employer.

Gain the high-level skills employers are looking for with Excelsior’s MS in Nursing Informatics.

What Does a Clinical Informaticist Do?

Although a clinical informaticist is generally responsible for using technology to manage health care, their specific duties may vary from organization to organization. Their general duties often include the following:

  • Customize, develop, and manage clinical information systems
  • Train staff members to use information systems
  • Research, develop, and implement new technology
  • Provide guidance to management on how to use new technology
  • Troubleshoot software and hardware problems
  • Review existing systems and data and suggest improvements
  • Develop system-related policies and procedures
  • Assess the needs of health care professionals and patients
  • Design user interfaces to store and evaluate patient data
  • Develop progress reports to give to supervisors and stakeholders
  • Create effective strategies for future IT systems and policies

How to Become a Clinical Informaticist

As you can probably guess, to be a clinical informaticist, it’s important to be knowledgeable about information technology. There are certain other skills and qualifications you must possess if you want to enter this field. Let’s take a look at some of them.

  • Written and verbal communication
  • Familiarity with relevant software and computer programs
  • Resource management skills
  • Project management skills
  • Medical knowledge and health care insight
  • Ability to develop innovative solutions to technical problems
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Leadership and ability to instruct others
  • Empathy and ability to interact with patients

Clinical Informaticist Education Requirements

In addition to certain skills and qualities, there is specific education you need to become a clinical informaticist. If you are interested in nursing and informatics, first and foremost, you must earn an associate degree in nursing and become a registered nurse. You can meet this first requirement with Excelsior’s Associate in Applied Science in Nursing or the Associate in Science in Nursing program. If you are entering informatics from a field other than nursing, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in a field such as information technology, computer science, or something similar. Taking courses in biology, chemistry, and physiology are also recommended.

To complete your educational requirements, you must earn a master’s degree in nursing informatics. Excelsior’s Master of Science in Nursing Informatics will provide you with a robust curriculum that will prepare you to use data and information to respond to health care problems, improve client care and organizational operations, and make and communicate information-based decisions in a variety of health organizations.

Although not required, you may also consider advancing your career with professional certification. Nurses interested in this specialty can apply for the Informatics Nursing credential or the Advanced informatics Certification. Either will show employers your advanced knowledge and skill in the field.

Clinical Informaticist Salary

Payscale.com reported in January 2022 that clinical informaticists made an annual median salary of $78,494.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics includes informaticists in the category of health information technologists and medical registrars and expects this field of health care to grow 17 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average rate. One reason for this is because of the speed at which technology is growing and how much organizations—including those in health care—are relying on it. Hospitals and other health care facilities are relying on computer technology to manage and organize their data, and employers are looking for clinical informaticists to assess and apply this data.

If a career as a clinical informaticist aligns with your professional goals, consider speaking with an Excelsior admissions counselor to start your educational career toward nursing informatics.

Career Spotlight: Director of Digital Marketing

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Digital marketing is more than just advertising online. It’s a discipline that demands new strategies to reach, engage, and influence. Consumers behave differently online, and interactions with your potential customers are different than they would be in traditional channels like television, radio, and print. Digital marketing, with its data-driven focus, gives you the opportunity to speak to and interact with your market in increasingly targeted and personal ways.

Digital marketing encompasses SEO, content marketing, direct marking, display advertising, and more. Just think about the range of digital devices and services you use every day. Now think about all the ways those can be used to reach you. Maybe a little scary but also more than a little exciting, especially if you’re a digital marketer.

Director of Digital Marketing Job Description

The main duties of a director of digital marketing are to develop, implement, and manage digital marketing campaigns. This includes improving brand awareness, building customer engagement, and increasing website traffic. Digital marketing directors use a variety of tactics and tools, including paid media, analytics, and SEO, to develop effective social media and online marketing.

Digital marketing directors constantly monitor budgets and campaign analytics to strategically improve and adjust their tactics for maximum success.

Gain the business skills more employers are looking for with an MBA from Excelsior.

Digital Marketing Director Responsibilities

Some other common responsibilities of a digital marketing director can include:

  • Developing an overarching digital marketing strategy
  • Planning campaigns based on a company’s goals
  • Managing online brand presence
  • Tracking, managing, and reporting marketing campaign data
  • Leading a team of vendors and internal digital marketing professionals
  • Optimizing the digital ecosystem through SEO, SEM, and SMO
  • Staying up to date on the latest marketing trends and advancements

    Director of Digital Marketing Salary

    A director of digital marketing is a higher-level position that carries a lot of responsibility for a company’s bottom line and commands the higher-level salary to prove it. Salary.com estimates that the average digital marketing director’s salary ranges between $159,119 and $206,323 but varies depending on location and the company size.

    How Do I Become a Director of Digital Marketing?

    A director of digital marketing is always focused on increasing brand awareness and driving profit growth. To do so, they rely on left brain-style skills like organization and analytics, and reading and writing, as well as talents typically thought of as right-brained such as visual processing, creativity, and intuition. With savvy people skills, the right education, and a strong portfolio of experience, becoming a digital marketing director is a goal worth working toward.

    Experience Required for a Director of Digital Marketing

    People typically develop into the role of a digital marketing manager after moving up through the ranks of lower-level marketing positions where they develop their skills and experience. In addition to having built a progressive career in marketing, you should also have at least five years of managerial experience on your resume to show future employers that you’re confident in leading a team.

    You should have knowledge and experience in general business administration and marketing best practices as well as extensive experience with the “digital” part of the job title, including SEO, pay per click (PPC) advertising, web design, analytics, and social media software.

    It’s also a plus to have some industry-specific marketing experience for the director of digital marketing position you’re trying to attain.

    Education Requirements for a Director of Digital Marketing

    Nearly all director-level positions in marketing require at least a bachelor’s degree in business, communications, or related area.

    Advancing your education and earning an MBA is one of the best things you can do for your marketing career. Correlating to raise in salary and job responsibilities, most employers prefer MBA graduates for advanced marketing positions like a director of digital marketing. In addition to multiplying your career options, an MBA is invaluable for building your network, expanding your worldview, and helping you develop the leadership, analytical, and strategic skills that will serve you well in any career.

Career Spotlight: Reliability Engineer

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Business owners often review their production processes and equipment so they can look for ways to cut costs and spot problems. Sometimes it’s more helpful to have a professional in charge of conducting this assessment as well as of identifying and managing problems that might arise in production and with safety equipment. These professionals are known as reliability engineers, and they can be found working in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, military, utility systems, transportation, medical, and others.

What Is Reliability Engineering?

Reliability engineering focuses on making sure products, software, and data act as they were intended without failing. Reliability engineers use scientific reasoning to predict, identify, prevent, and manage problems and failures in a business. They also use engineering techniques to improve the reliability of products, software, and data.

What Is a Reliability Engineer?

As mentioned, a reliability engineer is the professional charged with the responsibility of ensuring a business’ products function properly. To keep businesses running effectively and efficiently, reliability engineers focus on risk management and asset management.

What Does a Reliability Engineer Do?

Reliability engineers specifically study the life cycle of the production process and identify points for improvement, and use their knowledge to increase equipment efficiency, improve operations, and prevent problems. Here are some other responsibilities they may have:

  • Planning evaluation tests to find production and safety risks
  • Helping to create and install technical systems
  • Testing and evaluating products and components
  • Identifying dangers or failures in the production process or technical system
  • Performing analysis of recurring failures and recommending ways to improve
  • Helping to develop loss prevention strategies
  • Tracking the life cycle of product development
  • Analyzing information and strategies to reduce risk
  • Determining the consequences of a failure
  • Maintaining how efficiently a company can fix equipment
  • Reviewing new installations
  • Providing technical support to other teams

How to Become a Reliability Engineer

To become a reliability engineer, you need to fulfill several qualifications, including earning a degree and obtaining certification. It’s also helpful to gain experience in the field, either by volunteering or interning in the engineering sector. This would give you valuable experience and introduce you to your preferred industry. It’s also important that you gain the proper certification.

Education Requirements for a Reliability Engineer

Reliability engineers need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in the engineering field or something similar. You can pursue mechanical or industrial engineering and even major in engineering, logistics, or statistics. Excelsior’s Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology program, accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, provides students with knowledge in areas such as reactor operations, health physics, quality assurance, chemistry, and instrumentation and control related to the nuclear engineering technology field. This degree is an appropriate choice if you’re interested in becoming a reliability engineer.

Reliability Engineering Certification

To complete your qualifications to become a reliability engineer, you must acquire certification. One of the popular certifications you can pursue is a Certified Reliability Engineer, which is offered by the American Society for Quality and is for engineers to prove their technical expertise and analytical skills in reliability. The Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional is offered by the Society of Maintenance and Reliability Professionals and tests management and leadership skills, asset maintenance, troubleshooting, and reliability leadership, among other capabilities. Finally, the Certified Reliability Leader is offered by the Association of Asset Management Professionals and tests knowledge in economic prosperity, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability.

If a reliability engineer sounds like the profession for you, consider speaking with an Excelsior admissions counselor to start your educational path.

Career Spotlight: Health Information Specialist

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

When you visit the doctor, your personal information is taken down and stored with other data such as lab reports, previous diagnoses, and other clinical information. Health information specialists work with health information technology to keep patient data and health records organized in compliance with laws pertaining to health information management.

As you probably guessed, a large part of this job includes data analysis and organizational skills, but there are a few other things you should be aware of if a career as a health information specialist interests you.

What Is a Health Information Specialist?

Health information specialists may not be the face you see when you are sitting in the waiting room or the exam room, but they are an important part of the health care team. They ensure that medical records are correct and easily accessible.

Professionals in this field work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, nursing homes, and other health care facilities, and for government agencies. They compile, organize, and store important and confidential patient information. They also analyze information to make sure it is accurate and complete as far as including coding and other important record information. If the information is not correct, sometimes health information specialists may perform chart corrections or send back incomplete patient records for revisions.

Explore new career opportunities with a degree in health sciences.

What Does a Health Information Specialist Do?

To perform their jobs to the best of their ability, health information specialists use various classification systems and databases to organize and maintain patient information. Let’s take a closer look at the day-to-day responsibilities of these professionals:

  • Communicating with patients about diagnoses, medications, and follow-up care
  • Evaluating a patient’s information for timeliness, completeness, and accuracy
  • Reviewing medical records to ensure they are accurate and organized
  • Maintaining medical records using computer software programs
  • Using classification software to assign medical codes
  • Recording vital statistics like births and deaths
  • Reviewing medical records for instances that need further investigation
  • Providing education to patients about their conditions
  • Performing administrative tasks

In addition, health information specialists ensure that medical records are maintained consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements.

Health Information Specialist Education Requirements

To become a health information specialist, you may only need a high school diploma, but some organizations require postsecondary education, so it’s important to check with the employer you are interested in. Usually, an associate or bachelor’s degree is required and sometimes certification is also preferred.

Excelsior’s Associate in Science in Health Sciences program can help expand your medical vocabulary, improve your communication skills, and provide you with a solid understanding of the U.S. health care system. You can gain skills needed for entry-level jobs in medical office administration, health insurance member services, community health services, medical billing management, and human resources.

In addition, the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences program covers responsibilities related to a spectrum of health care careers, and teaches you how to succeed as an employee in treatment centers, public health agencies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other medical service or nonclinical health organizations. Both options are excellent choices if you are looking to enter the health care field as a health information specialist.

Also, although it’s not usually required, some employers prefer candidates with certification. Some employers prefer you sit for the Registered Health Information Technicians (RHIT) exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). You need to meet certain requirements to qualify to take the exam, so it’s important to check out AHIMA’s website.

You can also advance your health information specialist career by pursuing other certifications through Excelsior’s partnership with MedCerts. For example, MedCerts offers various health care certificate programs that can help you advance your skills in the health care field while earning you credit toward your Excelsior degree.

Health Information Specialist Salary

You may be wondering about the job outlook of a health information specialist. Well, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2021, the national average salary of medical records specialists—a category that includes health information specialists—was $46,660. Employment in this field is expected to grow 7 percent from 2021 to 2031 due to the aging population. An increase in the age of the population will mean more medical tests and treatments, and therefore more widespread use of health records and a greater need for professionals to maintain them.

If a career as a health information specialist aligns with your goals, consider speaking with an Excelsior admissions counselor to start you educational journey toward this career.

Top 6 Things to Know About Financial Aid

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Going back to school can be an exciting time—especially if you haven’t been to school in many years and are attending online. However, one thing about going back to school that can be a bit frustrating or difficult is determining how you will pay for it. If you don’t acquire the appropriate financial aid, it can mean a lot of money coming out of your pocket.

But don’t worry. We have helpful tips for securing financial aid so that you get the most out of your education and less out of your wallet. Here’s advice from Excelsior University’s Student Financial Services on obtaining financing for school:

Tips for Accessing Financial Aid

Tip #1: Do Your Research

Check the federal government and private sector for various scholarship opportunities, and check places like Scholarships.com to see what you may qualify for. Importantly, check the institution you are attending to see what financial aid it offers. Excelsior University encourages enrolled undergraduate and graduate students to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which helps to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, New York state financial aid, and Excelsior University scholarships, and reminds students to seek private loans and grants, and other types of scholarships.

Tip #2: Get to Know Your Institution’s Financial Aid Department

Don’t forget to reach out to your university’s or college’s financial aid department because they will be able to help answer any questions you have about the process. Excelsior’s Student Financial Services Office can help you apply for financial aid and reapply for financial aid when and if needed.

Tip #3: Be Aware of the Different Types of Aid

There are many types of financial aid that you can apply for to help you get through school. Excelsior’s financial services staff explains several types that Excelsior offers. One is the federal Pell Grant, which is awarded based on a student’s Student Aid Index (SAI), which is calculated by the FAFSA; second, the FSEOG, or Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant, is available to students who demonstrate the greatest financial need. Third, federal student loans, either subsidized (do not accrue interest) or unsubsidized (accrue interest), apply to undergraduate students who are enrolled in at least a half-time status and to graduate students enrolled in a minimum of three credit hours in a trimester. Graduate students are only eligible for unsubsidized loans and are considered as long as they are at half-time status.

Tip #4: Be Aware of the Financial Aid Process

In addition to applying early for your FAFSA, you should be aware of other steps you must take to be sure you receive all the financial aid you deserve. After submitting your FAFSA, be sure to obtain course approval from your advisor. You can usually do this in advance; Excelsior’s Student Financial Services staff suggest applying for financial aid a trimester ahead to make sure you don’t have to worry about getting approvals. Next, log in to your personal account with your institution, like at MyExcelsior, to accept your financial aid package. If you intend to change the number of courses you’re registered for, you must fill out a student status change form so the financial aid office can adjust the amount of your financial aid for the desired trimester. At Excelsior, you can find the student status change form on your MyExcelsior account.

Tip #5: Know Payment Plans

Payment is usually required by your institution at course registration, so if you haven’t submitted or been accepted for financial aid, you may have to set up a course payment plan and pay out of pocket. Excelsior University offers payment plan options if you don’t have enough financial aid to cover your courses. You must owe more than $200 and must select the appropriate payment plan according to your start date.

Tip #6: Keep an Eye on Your Email

Many of the types of financial aid you apply for will require an email to keep in contact with you. At Excelsior University, for instance, students should always check their email/ Message Center frequently during the financial aid process as requests from Student Financial Services will be sent to either of these locations.

Going back to school can be scary, but the financial aid process doesn’t have to be. If you follow the above tips that Excelsior’s Student Financial Services has outlined, you will be well on your way to having a rewarding, and less financially stressful, educational career.

Career Spotlight: Supply Chain Analyst

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

We can easily order almost anything with the click of a button. But how those products and goods get to us is not that easy. The routes, stops, individuals involved—all must align in perfect order for these products to accurately reach their destination. In other words, there is a complex supply chain involved. A supply chain analyst oversees making sure a supply chain runs smoothly. Let’s read on to learn more about this important position.

Is Supply Chain Management a Good Career?

The need to transport goods across the United States and across the world will continue for the foreseeable future, ensuring that the position of a supply chain analyst is always needed. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts 28 percent growth from 2021 to 2031 for logisticians, a category that includes supply chain analysts. As of May 2021, the average annual salary for this position was $77,040.

Supply chain analysts are in demand in almost every industry. The BLS reports that in 2021, logisticians—which includes supply chain analysts—held about 195,000 positions. This included about 23 percent in the manufacturing field and 16 percent in the professional, scientific, and technical fields.

If you haven’t already, you might have noticed that supply chain management is a secure and lucrative career choice.

Role of a Supply Chain Analyst

Supply chain analysts use data to recommend new methods for improving the production and transportation of a company’s products. They may research lower costs, new routes, new suppliers, or better deals on goods. They may also monitor the inventory stock in warehouses. Sometimes they act as the liaison between a company and the product supplier.

Let’s take a look at some of the specific responsibilities of a supply chain analyst.

Keep your career moving forward with a BS in Business at Excelsior.

What Does a Supply Chain Analyst Do?

What a supply chain analyst does varies depending on career field, but the main job is the same: to manage, analyze, and improve a company’s supply chain.

Managing the flow of goods and products is a large responsibility. Here are some of the specific expectations for a supply chain analyst.

  • Analyzing supply chain data
  • Managing supply chain operations by coordinating with the staff
  • Conducting inventory analysis
  • Using data to recommend changes to reduce costs
  • Researching partner companies to negotiate best-price contracts
  • Maintaining relationships with vendors and partners
  • Collaborating with people from various departments
  • Evaluating the route schedules
  • Consistently seeking ways to improve supply chain management

How to Become a Supply Chain Analyst

If you are interested in becoming a supply chain analyst, you must follow certain steps. First, you need to pursue education. Usually, a bachelor’s degree in business administration is preferred. Second, you need to build up your skills in supply chain management. Apply for apprenticeships or internships to get your foot in the door. You may also consider taking some courses in technical and analytical topics so you are well versed and ready to apply for an entry-level job.

Supply Chain Analyst Qualifications

To be a successful supply chain analyst, you must have the proper education, but you should also possess certain skills. Here are some of the other qualifications for someone applying to this position.

  • Critical thinking skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Knowledge of technology like SAP or Salesforce
  • Production planning knowledge
  • Mathematical skills
  • Interpersonal communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Experience analyzing business improvement
  • Consumer product experience
  • Inventory management knowledge

Supply Chain Analyst Education Requirements

As mentioned above, to become a supply chain analyst, many employers prefer you have a bachelor’s degree in business management, operations, logistics, or something similar. Excelsior’s Bachelor of Science in Business program is designed for working adults. You can gain skills you can use on the job in areas including accounting, business strategy, communication, computer skills, economics, business ethics, finance, global business, leadership, management, marketing, data analysis, and teamwork and cultural diversity. The Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) in Business and Management program includes coursework in accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, employee relations, leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce. Both programs are appropriate choices if you would like to enter the field of supply chain management.

Excelsior University Earns 2023–2024 Military Friendly® School Designation

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York—Excelsior University has once again proudly earned the 2023–2024 Military Friendly® School designation.

More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2023–2024 survey, and Excelsior was awarded this ranking for going above the standard. The 2023–2024 Military Friendly® Schools list will be published in the May and October issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and can be found at www.militaryfriendly.com.

“Veterans, servicemembers, and their families have been an important part of the Excelsior community since our founding,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “All Excelsior students have the opportunity to learn wherever they live and work, and this flexibility serves our servicemember students especially well. We are proud of our Military Friendly® ranking that showcases our commitment to servicemembers.”

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Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory, a publishing company that connects the military with civilian opportunities, with input from the Military Friendly® Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

“Military Friendly® is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process” says Kayla Lopez, national director of military partnerships, Military Friendly®. “Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages colleges to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.”

For more information about Excelsior student military and veteran programs, visit https://www.excelsior.edu/military-and-veterans/.
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Media Contact Excelsior University:
Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

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.