Q&A with Nancy Bellucci

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

About Nancy Bellucci

Nancy Bellucci is a faculty program director with Excelsior University’s graduate nursing program. She has been with Excelsior since July 2021 overseeing faculty and courses in both bachelor’s and master’s nursing programs.

Bellucci earned a PhD in nursing education from Capella University, and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing education from Thomas Edison State College. She holds a certificate in nursing education from Thomas Edison State College and is a certified nurse educator (NLN). Bellucci has held multiple clinical nursing and academic nursing positions since becoming a nurse in 2006. She has taught nursing leadership, health care policy and finance, nursing informatics, evidence-based practice, capstone courses, and professional roles and values

Bellucci has written many articles for the American Nurses Association, NurseTogether, RN Journal, dailynurse.com, and Nurse.com. She has presented original research and other presentations at the National League for Nursing’s Education Summit, the Sigma Theta Tau International Conference on Healthy Work Environments, and the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) National Summit.

At Excelsior, Bellucci oversees the nursing informatics, research, and Capstone courses for the bachelor’s in nursing program and the courses in the Master of Science Nursing Informatics program.

We asked Bellucci about her career, nursing Capstone courses, and takeaways for Excelsior students in the bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs. Check out her answers below.

Q&A with Nancy Bellucci

Q: Can you briefly describe your nursing career?
A: I was a nurse starting in 2006. I came into nursing late in life; I had already had a full career working in an office and in our boat dealership. We sold our business, and a retired nurse mentioned, “Why don’t you be a nurse?” So the journey began there.

Q: What topics or areas of nursing do you have expertise in?
A: I started out in med-surg nursing and then worked my way into the operating room where I scrubbed in and did all kinds of interesting surgeries. From there, I became a clinical development specialist and oversaw eight surgical units with 144 staff members and did all their clinical education. Then I got involved in nursing academics and have been here ever since.

Q: What is your role at Excelsior?
A: I’m a faculty program director. So what that means is I not only help develop our faculty who teach, but also help to do curriculum design, which I’m passionate about. I try to bring that real-world experience into the online setting…I give back to nursing; I get to give my expertise.

Q: What can students expect from the bachelor’s Capstone course you teach?
A: We’ve just redeveloped the Capstone for the bachelor’s program, and we’ve done it in a way that helps students build a quality improvement project. They take a topic that they’re passionate about—something that they think needs to be changed in the clinical setting—and they work through with a mentor who they choose, to develop that plan incrementally over the course of 15 weeks. And then hopefully many of the students that I’m teaching right now have implemented their plan and are starting to see the benefits of their voice in the creation of process and policy change.

Q: What about the master’s in nursing informatics Capstone?
A: Currently I’m recreating the nursing informatics Capstone. It’s very similar to the bachelor’s Capstone in that it’s rigorous—15 weeks. We scaffold the assignments, meaning that the student has to build a systems plan as the project manager and a leader because nursing informatics isn’t just about informatics or health information, it’s about leading a project, working on interprofessional teams, collaborating with one another, and creating lasting change. So just as you see in the bachelor’s Capstone, and all of our master’s Capstones, we are working to help students select a topic and decide how they want to attempt to create the change. So we’re really working to help them build a final product that they can use in the real world.

Q: What do you hope students will take away from the bachelor’s and master’s in nursing programs?
A: We’re in really challenging times in nursing. Nurses are now having to get a bachelor’s degree, and it’s become a requirement of work where they can’t progress in their profession unless they have one…So I hope that they take away from this that it’s not just to have to—it’s yours. I mean you own it. It’s your degree, no one can take it from you, and it still should be that badge of honor. And for the master’s, I hope that you realize that you can create change, you can promote others, you can promote yourself; you can be a benefit to nursing.

Excelsior University Ribbon Cutting and Launch of the Center for Social Justice

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York – Excelsior University hosts a ribbon cutting and reception on Wednesday, November 16, to celebrate the change from College to University and launch Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice.

“This is an exciting time for Excelsior University, our faculty and staff, our students, and our community,” said David Schejbal, PhD, president of Excelsior University. “Although the name change became official on August 1, being able to celebrate with our Excelsior family is incredibly special. Our celebration is two-fold as we also launch Excelsior’s Center for Social Justice and solidify the justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work that has always been an essential part of Excelsior.”

The transition to a university recognizes Excelsior’s commitment to meeting opportunities for delivering education and the changing needs of adult learners. For more than 50 years, Excelsior has contributed 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.

In the past, Excelsior has experienced name changes and each change offered benefits unique to our students and academics. Becoming a university is the next step in Excelsior’s evolution and will provide a platform to continue to serve adult students in broader ways. Students and alumni will benefit from the growing prestige of Excelsior University, and we will use this as an opportunity to connect, re-engage, and grow our Excelsior community.

“The purpose of the Center for Social Justice is to elevate the University as a model that embraces diversity to challenge the status quo and impact students and our communities,” said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, founding director of the Center for Social Justice and chief diversity officer. “In doing so, we can aim to create a just world focused on equity, access, and human rights. We are excited for the opportunities that this center will open for our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the overall Excelsior community.”

Excelsior’s investment in social justice will create a platform for meaningful dialogue as an asset to the organization’s decision-making and performance, as an opportunity to enhance underprivileged students’ access to higher education, and a conduit for all students’ intercultural development.

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B-roll video: https://bcove.video/3g5IqvP

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.

8 In-Demand Allied Health Careers

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

If you’re not already working in health care, the term “allied health” might be new to you. But with every visit to a doctor, dentist, or specialist, you’ve surely encountered one or more of these essential health care professionals.

If health care is the goal for your next move, allied health jobs are a great place to start or grow your career. We’ll break down what allied health is, what you need to break into the field, and eight of the most in-demand careers.

What Is the Allied Health Field?

Careers that are included as part of the allied health field have different roles than those of a doctor or nurse but operate together as part of a team in the pursuit of patient care.

The Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) defines allied health professionals as those being “…involved with the delivery of health or related services pertaining to the identification, evaluation and prevention of diseases and disorders; dietary and nutrition services; rehabilitation and health systems management, among others.”

Examples of common allied health job titles include: dental hygienists, sonographers, dietitians, medical technologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, radiographers, respiratory therapists, and speech language pathologists just to name a few.

The need for health care professionals is growing by the year, and the ASAHP estimates that around 60 percent of the U.S. health care workforce could be classified as allied health.

Earn your BS in Health Sciences and jump-start your allied heath career today.

8 In-Demand Allied Health Careers

Medical Coders

Medical coders work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities and doctor’s offices to communicate with insurance companies. The medical coder interprets patient files and updates them with medical codes. They analyze all parts of a patient’s file, including tests, consultations, in-office procedures, and medications. Learn more about how to become a medical coder.

Medical Assistants

Medical assistants are the backbone of medical facilities. They focus on the administrative and clinical tasks involved in health care, like taking vital signs, administering medications per a physician’s order, or gathering medical history. They also may help with scheduling appointments, billing insurance, and processing paperwork. Learn more about how to become a medical assistant.

Clinical Nutritionists

Clinical nutrition is the study of how nutrients in food are processed, and what combination of nutrients are right for different health conditions and goals. Clinical nutritionists use research and medical tests to determine the best course of action for a patient to lead a healthy life. Learn more about how to become a clinical nutritionist.

Registered Dietitians

Registered dietitians work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and inpatient and outpatient clinics, and often work with individuals experiencing eating disorders, substance abuse, or medical conditions with symptoms that can be improved or managed with a more specific diet or meal planning. Dietitians create unique nutrition plans for clients and help them maintain healthy eating habits based on their medical needs. Learn more about how to become a registered dietitian.

Community Health Workers

Community health workers are not only educators, but also advocates for community residents because they effectively communicate with health care providers and social service agencies. They create and implement programs that promote and improve individual and overall community health. Learn more about how to become a community health worker.

Occupational Health Workers

Occupational health workers help businesses keep their workplace safe and healthy. Occupational health is designed to protect employees from potential risks and hazards on the job, assisting with everything from injury prevention to injury care. Learn more about how to become an occupational health worker.

Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists are public health workers who investigate patterns and causes of disease. Their main objective is to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes. Epidemiologists typically specialize in a specific public health area, such as environmental health, infectious disease, and mental health. Learn more about how to become an epidemiologist.

EKG Technicians

EKG technicians operate equipment that measures, monitors, and graphically traces the electrical activity of the heart. They may also review images or test results to check for quality and coverage and analyze diagnostic information to provide a summary of findings for physicians. Learn more about how to become an EKG technician.

Potential Career Paths with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences

Each of the above jobs needs at least an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree to start at the entry level, but an advanced degree is often required.

A health sciences degree combines practical science with care and teaches you how to apply both laboratory science skills like biology, chemistry, and physics, and social science disciplines like psychology and sociology to real-world health issues facing individuals and communities.

To advance your career in the in-demand field of allied health, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in health sciences. A BS in Health Sciences is a flexible degree that widens your path of opportunity for careers in both the patient-facing and administrative sides of health care. It is also the degree of choice for those looking to continue on to a medical degree or advance their career further with a master’s degree in health sciences.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, health care specialists must stay up to date with new technologies and processes throughout their career. One way to do this is through certificate programs like the health care and medical training programs offered through Excelsior’s partnership with MedCerts.

No matter what professional direction you decide on, an Excelsior admissions counselor can help you choose the right health sciences degree for your goals.

Careers in Cyber: Information Systems Auditor

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

All businesses need to make sure that their information technology (IT) systems are running securely and smoothly and are protected from outside threats. Information systems auditors, or IT auditors for short, are professionals who make sure IT systems are appropriately managed and are functioning properly. If you are a cyber junkie and are a detail-oriented person, this might be a perfect career for you. Let’s take a closer look.

What Is an Information Systems Auditor?

To be an IT auditor, you must pass certification, and so technically, these professionals are known as certified information systems auditors (CISA), as designated by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). We will talk more about this certification later. For the purpose of this article, we will refer to these professionals by their common name, IT auditors. They work in large and small companies and, simply put, they oversee, manage, and protect that company’s IT systems.

Earn the degree IT employers are looking for with a BS in Cybersecurity from Excelsior.

What Does an Information Systems Auditor Do?

IT auditors perform audits on the general IT structure of an organization, its application controls, and its system security, and also perform risk assessments. Let’s explore some of their specific roles and responsibilities.

Information Systems Auditor Roles and Responsibilities

IT auditors are heavily involved in auditing and testing IT systems. Here are some of their main responsibilities:

  • Implementing risk management-based audit strategy
  • Planning audits to determine if IT assets are protected, managed, and valuable
  • Executing audits in compliance with an organization’s standards and objectives
  • Sharing audit results and providing recommendations
  • Performing re-examinations to ensure recommended actions have been performed
  • Obtaining, installing, and integrating software
  • Maintaining an IT portfolio

    • IT auditors are also responsible for working directly with an organization’s management department to make sure security standards and procedures for an IT system are carried out and maintained appropriately.

    Information Systems Auditor Education Requirements

    To become an IT auditor, it’s important to have the right amount of education. Typically, employers prefer a master’s or bachelor’s degree from a university that supports ISACA programs.

    Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program is designed to prepare students for cybersecurity-related jobs in the U.S. Cyber Command, the NSA’s signal intelligence operations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies, and corporate environments. Excelsior’s Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Operations helps students build their skills in threat detection, incident response, information assurance, defense mitigation, and risk assessment, so you can make sure your career is ready for whatever comes next. Both these options are excellent choices for students planning to enter the field of IT auditing.

    It is important to note that designated CISAs continue their professional education and keep their knowledge in information systems, auditing, and control up to date. Therefore, IT auditors are required to undergo 20 hours of training per year with a minimum of 120 hours in a three-year period.

    About the Certified Information Systems Auditor Exam

    As mentioned, to be an IT auditor, you need to pass the certified systems auditor exam sponsored by ISACA. The CISA exam is open to anyone who wishes to pursue a career in auditing, control, and security. The four-hour test consists of 150 multiple-choice questions centered around five job domains: information systems auditing process; governance and management of IT; information systems acquisition, development, and implementation; information systems operations and business resilience; and protection of information assets. A passing score is 450 or higher (on a scale of 200-800).

    You might be wondering why it’s important to be certified as a CISA. Well, with a CISA certification, you have a more competitive advantage in the marketplace and you certainly have more credibility in the workplace. Not to mention, it has a large impact on your salary. According to TechTarget, CISAs make between $52,459 and $122,326 per year!

    If becoming an IT auditor sounds like the career choice for you, consider speaking with a Excelsior admissions counselor today to get started in a cybersecurity program.

    Career Spotlight: Business Analyst

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    Do you like making important decisions that affect the way things are run? Do you like having an influence on others? Do you like working for companies, big and small? Maybe becoming a business analyst is the right job for you. A business analyst is important to many businesses because they help with budgeting and identifying problems in the market. As a business analyst, you would have a key role in ensuring businesses run well and anticipating and solving any problems that arise.

    Let’s explore this job more.

    What Is a Business Analyst?

    Business analysts help organizations assess their business models, contribute to budgeting, analyze processes, and assist staff members with making profitable decisions. As a business analyst, it’s important to have knowledge of both business strategies and trends in the industry you work. Many business analysts also work with IT departments to make sure the technology supports a business’ needs.

    What Does a Business Analyst Do?

    Now that you know what a business analyst is, let’s find out more about what they do. The primary job of a business analyst is to identify a business’ needs and help the business evolve. They coordinate with all departments in a business and help increase productivity among staff. In the next section, we’ll break down the day-to-day duties of a business analyst.

    Business Analyst Responsibilities

    Depending on what kind of business they work for, a business analyst can have many different duties and responsibilities. Generally, they research and present solutions, and then help implement these solutions. In an average day, business analysts may do any of the following:

    • Communicate with staff to understand the needs of the business
    • Conduct surveys, workshops, and tests
    • Assist with project management for selected projects
    • Collaborate with the product manager in planning and prioritization
    • Write clear and well-structured business requirements
    • Test business processes and recommend improvements
    • Create suggestions and solutions for strategic and operational changes
    • Identify automation opportunities
    • Invent systems or processes necessary to implement changes
    • Create reports for business performance
    • Support staff as solutions are implemented
    • Evaluate impact of changes made

    How to Become a Business Analyst

    According to Indeed.com, business analysts earn an average of $75,165 per year and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects this career and careers like it will grow 25 percent between 2020 and 2030. Doesn’t it sound like a great opportunity? Wait a second, though. If you are interested in becoming a business analyst, you should be aware that you need a certain level of education and work experience to enter this field. Let’s take a closer look.

    Business Analyst Education Requirements

    Many employers require you have at least a bachelor’s degree for an entry-level position as a business analyst. Advanced positions may require a master’s degree or higher. Many graduates have backgrounds in business, engineering, marketing, and statistics. Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Business program will give you a broad foundation in liberal arts and sciences, as well as the knowledge you need to create effective business strategies and achieve measurable results for your employer. 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 are good choices if you want to pursue a career as a business analyst.

    It’s also highly recommended that you earn a certification to expand your skill set. An IIBA Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA) is a wise move if you’re just starting out. The other three certifications you should be aware of are:

    • IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
    • IIBA Certification of Capability in Business Analysis (CCBA)
    • PMI Professional in Business Analytics (PMI-PBA)

    Business Analyst Work Experience

    As an entry-level business analyst, you will probably start by working under a senior analyst. After a few years, you may be able work independently and be able to work directly with senior management and stakeholders. You may also obtain other positions such as a functional analyst, systems analyst, or financial analyst. Your career can only go higher; if you stay on your career path, you may see yourself as a senior business analyst, business manager, business architect, or in VP-level positions.

    As you can see, the possibilities are endless. So, what are you waiting for? Contact an Excelsior admissions counselor today and get started on your path to becoming a business analyst!

    Career Spotlight: Certified EKG Technician

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    Have you or someone you know ever had their heart monitored electronically? A technician attaches electrodes to your chest (and maybe arms and legs in other circumstances) and reads the results on an EKG machine nearby. The person who does this is a certified EKG technician, also known as an electrocardiograph technician. It’s a fascinating career that you might find could be the right choice for you.

    What Is a Certified EKG Technician?

    Certified EKG technicians work in a variety of health care settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient centers, doctors’ offices, labs, and private practices. They use special equipment to measure a patient’s heart activity and relay this information to other health professionals so they can treat cardiovascular conditions. Certified EKG technicians are often the first person to discover any irregularities in the heart that could lead to disease or other problems.

    What Does a Certified EKG Technician Do?

    As mentioned, certified EKG technicians have the important job of monitoring a person’s heart for any abnormalities. Their other day-to-day tasks and responsibilities include:

    • Obtaining patients’ medical histories
    • Preparing patients for procedures, including positioning them correctly
    • Educating patients about testing procedures
    • Ensuring equipment is in good operating order
    • Attaching leads to patients, chest, arms, and legs
    • Performing stress tests
    • Administering EKG tests
    • Verifying the quality of test data
    • Delivering test results to physicians and other medical professionals
    • Performing administrative tasks like making appointments and keeping records
    • Assisting physicians during procedures
    • Ready to do more in your health care career? Get started with our bachelor’s in health sciences!

    Certified EKG Technician Salary

    According to Salary.com, the median EKG technician salary in the United States is $54,800 as of January 2026, but the range usually falls between $49,900 and $65,400. Nationally, the top 10% of earners in this role can make more than $75,000 per year.

    How Do You Become a Certified EKG Technician?

    While it is true that becoming a certified EKG technician doesn’t require as much education as other careers, it is still important to make sure you have the right knowledge, training, and certification for this career. Let’s take a closer look.

    Certified EKG Technician Requirements

    Typically, a high school diploma is all that is required to become a certified EKG technician, but many employers prefer you earn an associate degree in a health-related field. In Excelsior University’s Associate in Science in Health Sciences program, you gain skills needed for entry-level jobs in medical office administration, health insurance member services, community health services, medical billing management, and human resources. This is a beneficial degree program if you’d like to become a certified EKG technician.

    You also need the appropriate certification to pursue this career.

    EKG Technician Training Online

    Through Excelsior’s partnership with MedCerts, students can obtain the qualifications and education they need to start their career in health care. MedCerts’ EKG technician program is ideal for those looking to learn about the in-demand field of electrocardiography.

    EKG Technician Certification

    Once you have had at least one year of experience working in the field as an EKG technician, you can sit for the certification exam through the National Healthcare Association. When you pass this certification, you will become a certified EKG technician (CET). You can also become a certified cardiographic technician (CCT) if you work with Holter monitoring and stress testing.

    It’s important to note that if you have certification, you are more marketable to employers and are a stronger candidate for job positions.

    Further Education for EKG Technicians

    While there is no legal mandate to continue your higher education for certified EKG technicians, you do need to renew your credentials every two years and pay a recertification fee. EKG technicians with the CCT credential must renew their credentials 9–12 months after first passing the exam and then every three years after that.

    It’s always a good idea to pursue higher learning and expand your knowledge base. Excelsior University’s bachelor’s in health sciences program covers the scope of 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 non-clinical health organizations. It is a good choice if you’d like to keep your skills as a certified EKG technician up to date and beneficial if you’d like to pursue other career goals.

    Career Spotlight: Incident Response Analyst

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    Ever wonder what it is like to fight an invisible fight? Incident response analysts are cyber defense warriors who are constantly fighting the invisible fight. They are responsible for keeping attacks from occurring in any organization. Many work independently as a consultant or are a key member of an organization’s cybersecurity or information technology team. According to Norton.com, there are around 2,200 cyberattacks a day in the United States. Incident response analysts work behind the scenes to keep networks and computer systems safe. Learn how you can be part of the invisible fight in this guide.

    Incident Response Analyst Job Description

    An incident response analyst’s main goal is to protect their organization’s network and computer systems. They work with the cybersecurity and information technology teams to fix and minimize damage when a crisis occurs.

    Typically, job duties of an incident response analyst includes:

  • Create protocols and procedures for end users to follow during security incidents
  • Implement security tools
  • Monitor computer systems and networks
  • Perform malware analysis and penetration testing
  • Research new tools, procedures, and protocols
  • Identify and investigate computer and network threats
  • Create incident reports for leadership and other users
  • Develop protection plan strategies

    • Incident response analysts are also responsible for finding new and better ways to protect the organization’s systems. They are constantly researching new ideas and ways to prevent cyberattacks from occurring.

    Depending on the organization, incident response analysts are likely to monitor systems in multiple locations. That being said, this job aligns well with remote work. Many incident response analysts monitor systems all over the country or even the world, and most incidents can be resolved remotely.

    Start your career defending against cyberattacks with a BS in Cybersecurity from Excelsior.

    Incident Response Analyst Skills

    Incident response analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. To succeed in leadership roles, most companies prefer candidates to have a master’s degree and multiple years of experience. Work experience, combined with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, and the following skills will set you up to be a great candidate for any incident response analyst position.

  • Analytical skills. You must study and understand computer systems, software, and networks to access risks and determine improvements for security policies and procedures.
  • Creative skills. This one might not seem as obvious, but incident response analysts must be creative to anticipate security risks and implement new ways to protect their organization.
  • Problem-solving skills. As an incident response analyst, you must problem-solve to fix and uncover security threats and flaws in systems and networks.
  • Communication skills.You need to be able to explain information security needs and potential threats to end users and leadership who may not understand technical terms.
  • Detail oriented. Incident response analysts must pay close attention to systems and networks. Any minor change can be a security threat.
  • Team player. When a security threat happens, incident response analysts must work together to minimize the threat as quickly as possible. It is important to have a team that you trust and work well with.

    • While all these skills are necessary, it is also important to be flexible and a continuous learner. Computer systems are constantly changing and evolving; incident response analysts must keep up with the latest trends, technology, education, and cyber threats within their particular industry.

    Incident Response Analyst Salary

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), incident response analysts make $102,600 on average per year. For entry-level positions, you can make around $61,520 with plenty of room for growth. Employment is expected to grow 35 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than all other occupations. Cyberattacks are growing in frequency daily, and more companies and organizations are hiring their own cybersecurity teams to ensure they are protected as best they can. Incident response analysts are necessary to protect and defend computer systems and networks from the ever-changing world of cyber threats.

    As an incident response analyst, you can work across any industry; the most common are state and government agencies, health care, higher education, fashion, sales, the police force, and many other industries. If you use a computer at work, you most likely have an incident response analyst on your information technology team.

    Earn a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from Excelsior University today so you’re ready to fight the invisible fight!

    Career Spotlight: Project Manager

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    Whether designing a shopping mall, conducting a marketing campaign, or developing a computer system, a company needs to make sure their project is done smoothly. This is where a project manager comes in. Project managers are responsible for planning, executing, and completing a project. You can even go as far as to say they are responsible for the success or failure of a project. Let’s take a closer look at this position.

    What Is a Project Manager?

    Project managers initiate, execute, and complete projects across a range of industries, while also working within an organization’s constraints, such as budgets, schedules, and workforce. They use a variety of skills, including leadership, interpersonal, decision making, time management, and others to execute their jobs successfully. Additionally, project managers function as mediators between team members and executive staff; they are necessary for facilitating communication during all steps of a project.

    What Does a Project Manager Do?

    So now you know the basics of what a project manager is. But let’s take a look at some of the day-to-day tasks a project manager might be responsible for. Depending on the type of project, a project manager may do any of the following:

    • Meet with leadership to discuss an upcoming project
    • Talk to the finance team about increasing the budget
    • Create a risk assessment report
    • Check in with the project team for progress reports
    • Update the calendar to reflect timeline shifts
    • Understand what tools each team member needs to complete their piece of the project
    • Make sure the lines of communication are open
    • Be able to anticipate problems and adjust accordingly
    • Lead quality assurance
    • Moderate a post-mortem project meeting and gather feedback

    Other tasks and responsibilities include interviewing new staff members, conducting team meetings, holding private meetings with team members, and updating stakeholders on a project’s progress.

    Where Do Project Managers Work?

    Due to need for project management in any industry, project managers have the flexibility to choose an industry, including finance, construction, advertising, health care, information technology, and others. Project managers are usually most common, however, in companies where there are multiple departments and teams involved in many complex and extensive projects.

    How to Become a Project Manager

    If you’re interested in becoming a project manager, that’s great! It’s important to note that you need at least a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in either business or management to enter this field. Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Business program can help you gain skills in 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 in Business and Management program includes coursework in accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, and employee relations, as well as leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce. Either is a smart choice if you would like to become a project manager because you’ll build skills you can use on the job.

    Many employers may also prefer that you obtain a professional certificate or certification. Either option could help improve your resume and make you stand out in the job market. If you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to further your education, Excelsior’s Graduate Certificate in Advanced Project Management is an option to pursue. The Project Management Institute (PMI) offers resources that prepare you to pass the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam and obtain PMP certification. The PMI also administers the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), an entry-level certification that can help open a path for you.

    Project Manager Job Outlook

    According to PMI, the average salary of a project manager in the United States is $115,000, and Job Growth and Talent Gap report that 2.2 million new jobs are expected to open through 2027. Project management offers many career opportunities if you’re looking to test your leadership and creativity skills.

    If this sounds like the kind of job for you, speak to an Excelsior admissions counselor today and get started on your new career path.

    Día de los Muertos

    Posted on by Daniel Pascoe Aguilar

    What is Día de los Muertos

    Throughout history, Mexican culture has emphasized death as an integral part of the cycle of life. In contrast to the common understanding of death as the absence of life, Mexican people approach death in a transitional way. When someone dies, family and friends celebrate the afterlife in which the deceased is about to embark, as well as the life of the people who were close to the deceased. The idea of the oneness of life and death is a strong belief in México and is the main theme of the art and customs of the festival of El Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

    Many Mexican communities continue to keep alive the original traditions of the Day of the Dead. The Zapotecs of Oaxaca, for example, believe that the spirits of their dead relatives will return to their homes on the evenings of November 1 and 2. To welcome the spirits as honored guests, family altars or ofrendas are decorated and freshened, and graves are cleaned and beautifully decorated. The purpose of altars for the dead is to honor and please the returning souls. One does this by including items in the ofrenda, such as food and drink the honored souls enjoyed while they were on earth.

    The four elements of life (water, fire, earth, and wind) are represented in the ofrenda. Aztec representations included shells (water), candles (fire), musical flute (wind), and corn, cacao, and chile (earth). Here are some of the other offerings in the altar and what they represent:

  • Copal (incense): sign of worship
  • Zempasúchitl (marygold flower): passion for flowers and their brevity of life
  • Rooster feather: dawning of a new day
  • Dog: a guide to accompany traveling souls
  • Money: generosity and wealth, as well as paid fare for the crossing
  • Mirrors: duality of existence
  • Photographs: Love and a way to remember and learn about the virtues and abilities of the people represented in the ofrenda
  • Masks: respect and fear
  • Sugar skulls: a treat for all to enjoy during the celebration
  • Candles: guide the way of souls to the altar
  • Water: to quench the thirst of the traveling souls
  • Papel picado (tissue paper cut outs): to decorate the celebration

    • Excelsior University staff recommended articles, videos and activities:

    https://americanart.si.edu/blog/dia-de-los-muertos-united-states
    https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/day-of-the-dead-la
    https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/best-dia-de-los-muertos-celebrations-us-day-of-the-dead
    https://www.afar.com/magazine/the-most-spirited-day-of-the-dead-celebrations-in-the-united-states
    https://www.mexconnect.com/articles/3099-mexico-s-day-of-the-dead-resource-page/
    https://cut-it-out.org/

    Excelsior University Provides Local High Schools with Snacks for Students

    Posted on by Erin Coufal

    Albany, N.Y. — Excelsior University’s community engagement group is partnering with local high schools for the 2022–23 school year to collect snacks for students to help combat food insecurity. Troy High School and Albany High School will receive the donations monthly from October through June.

    “We are so grateful for the opportunity to partner with local high schools in the Capital Region to provide them with food and beverages for students in need,” said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, founding director of Center for Social Justice and chief diversity officer of Excelsior University. “Such a simple act can go a long way in ensuring the health and education of the youth in our area. It also shows the students and their community that Excelsior believes in them and their future.”

    Food insecurity can impact the health and well-being of students as well as their academic performance. Excelsior staff are donating items such as granola bars, breakfast bars, fruit snacks, bottled water, and other snacks, and distributing them to schools for teachers to hand out in their classrooms as needed.

    “Staff at Excelsior have donated generously as we start this initiative,” said Zachary Patterson, chair of the community engagement group at Excelsior. “We are proud to support students of all ages and have had a wonderful response from the schools and teachers.”

    Troy High School Drop Off
    Albany High School Drop Off

    # # #
    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.

    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.