Monday, May 30, 2011

Online Master Degree: Masters Degree Online Guide

ONLINE MASTER DEGREE: EARNING A MASTER DEGREE ONLINE
This web site lists top online schools offering online masters degree programs. Choose the online masters degree majors on the left that interest you, or you can click on the online schools on the right offering online masters degree programs. Thanks to today’s technology and, specifically, the internet, earning a masters degree online is a viable option that any prospective online masters degree student should seriously consider. The opinion of many students is that pursuing an online masters degree has definite and distinct advantages over traditional, on-campus masters degree programs. That is why so many people have earned their masters degree online, and the number of online masters degree graduates keeps growing.

Online learning has matured over the years and earning an online masters degree has never been easier. However, with all the online masters degree programs that presently exist, just how does one go about selecting the right online school? Here are some important pointers to help you make the transition smooth and earning your masters degree online an exciting, positive, and rewarding experience.

HOW TO CHOOSE AN ONLINE MASTER DEGREE PROGRAM

• Reputation of the online school and online masters degree program: One factor you must consider when choosing an online school offering online masters degree programs is the online school’s reputation. The online masters degree program's reputation in the industry you work in or want to work in is especially significant. Be sure to talk to hiring managers and ask them their opinion of an online masters degree from a certain school you are considering. The more hiring managers and people in authority you speak to, the better position you will be in to choose the right online masters degree program for you.. It is also a good idea to speak to others who have obtained or are currently obtaining an online masters degree from that school, especially if they also work in your chosen industry.

• Accreditation of the online school and online masters degree program: While there are many excellent online schools, universities and colleges out there offering online masters degrees, one must keep in mind that there also are some online schools offering online masters degree programs that fall way below the mark. These online schools offer online masters degrees which are not accredited and, therefore, in most cases, not recognized. Many of these online schools also require inadequate online masters degree coursework or, in some cases, none at all. In the worst cases, these online schools (or degree mills, as they are sometimes referred to) will sell you a worthless online masters degree immediately, no questions asked. One of the most important ways to find out if a school is legitimate and offering high-quality, recognized online masters degree programs is to check its accreditation. In the US, all reputable schools offering online masters degree programs should be accredited by one or more accrediting bodies. These accrediting bodies perform the task of ‘auditing’ schools and the online master’s degree programs they offer to see if they meet certain standards. If so, then the school and the online masters degree courses offered is ‘accredited’ by that body. There are both regional and national accrediting agencies that list online masters degree programs, which are listed below on this page. Some online masters degree programs (law, for example) are also accredited by a professional body in that field, in addition to regional and national accreditation.

• Programs and online masters degree majors offered: This may seem obvious, but it is a factor than some students overlook. In considering an online school, one must first review the online master’s degree programs and courses offered. Not only should you ensure that the online school offers online masters degree programs for the major you are interested in, you should also review the actual class descriptions for the online masters degree classes you will be required to take. Do these required online master’s degree classes for your major compare favorably to coursework from other reputable schools? Does the masters degree online coursework seem sufficiently extensive and cover areas that you know you will have to apply in your industry? Be sure to also check how often these online masters degree classes are offered and if they meet your schedule. This is important if you want to complete your online masters degree in a certain amount of time.

• Cost of online masters degree program: Another factor you must consider when choosing an online school to pursue an online masters degree is cost. The cost to complete an online masters degree program at an accredited online school can range anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000. There are so many factors involved, including the reputation of a school, the popularity of the online masters degree programs offered, the quality of the teaching staff, the level of technology used in administering the online masters degree program, etc. Many online schools will also work with you to help secure financial aid to offset some of the costs of obtaining a masters degree online. Be sure to check with the school before you decide which online masters degree program to enroll in.

• Flexibility of online masters degree program: Before deciding on an online masters degree program, be sure to evaluate how flexible each online school and online masters degree program is. Does it meet your schedule, especially if you will also be working, raising kids, or involved in some other major responsibility? Are there set online masters degree class times or can you download coursework according to your schedule? Do online masters degree program classes meet at convenient times so that you can complete online your masters degree in the desired time? Does the online school allow you sufficient time to complete each class required in order to earn your online master’s degree? All these are factors to consider when choosing an online school and online masters degree program.

• Teaching staff caliber: In any online masters degree program, the quality of teachers you will be learning from is very important. All reputable online schools offering online masters degree options will have competent teaching staff. Many online schools post the academic and career credentials of their online masters degree program teachers and professors online. Many more will provide you with the information if you are considering their online masters degree programs. Be weary of any school you are considering for your online masters degree that is reluctant to discuss the credentials of their teaching staff.

• Service offered by the online school: Online schools offering online masters degree programs have something in common with other businesses and organizations. Some are more service oriented while others are not. When choosing an online school to enroll in an online masters degree program, we recommend shopping around like a prudent consumer would. If school officials are unhelpful and unresponsive now, the situation will probably not improve after you enroll for your online masters degree. Trust your instincts and choose an online masters degree program at a school that treats you well and offers good service.

• Online masters degree program length: Since online schools have their own criteria for earning an online masters degree, it is important to find out how long the online masters degree course will take to complete. We suggest finding out the shortest time possible to earn your online masters degree, the longest time possible, and then decide how long you would like to take, after reviewing the course descriptions and schedules. This ensures that you can earn your online masters degree in the time desired.

• Technology used in the online masters degree program: Each online school uses different forms of technology to help students enjoy a meaningful and rewarding learning experience while pursuing their masters degree online. In addition to e-mail and web sites, an online school may also use speech, video, audio, and other forms of interactive programs to enrich the online masters degree experience for the student. While some online schools might utilize media-rich content and technology programs, live video conferencing and communication to enhance their masters degree online program, others may only offer downloadable text and e-mail. Be sure to find out the kind of technology each school uses to administer their online masters degrees.

• Accessibility during the online masters degree program: One of the advantages of earning a masters degree online is accessibility to course materials anytime, from anywhere. Many online schools allow their online masters degree students to connect to the internet at anytime to download the class lecture, to view video, to communicate with professors, to watch live demonstrations, etc. These online schools also provide bulletin boards to aid communication and some give their online masters students the option of connecting to the schools own network. Other online schools have more rigid schedules, less technology, and they provide less material for their maters degree online at any given time, reducing accessibility.

Not all online schools and online masters degree programs are created equally! Be sure to do your homework, especially since earning a masters degree online involves a significant financial commitment. Shop like a consumer. Once you make your decision, it will be an informed one and you will be on your way to earning a prestigious online masters degree at an accredited school!

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Online Masters Of Management

Online master's degrees in management prepare students for a wide variety of career paths, which may be why it is one of the most popular online degrees pursued by students. Online courses in the following areas can be found in a management master's degree program:
Business
Leadership
Human resources
Communication
Entrepreneurial management
Online courses in management develop skill sets that are applicable to many industries, including trade, commerce, finance, manufacturing, entertainment, law, small business, and more. An online master's degree in management is a versatile degree designed to make graduates competitive in business.


DeVry University's Keller School of Management
When you’re a student at DeVry University, you’ll find support every step of the way. Our dedicated team of professors and academic advisors will help you stay on track to meet your educational and career goals. And when you’re ready, there are over 150 Career Services experts to guide your employment search. With our career fairs and on campus employment interviews, we’ll help connect you with sought‐after companies and today’s fastest growing careers.


University of Phoenix

With convenient class locations as well as online learning, University of Phoenix makes quality higher education highly accessible. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, we can help you reach your goal while you work-and much sooner than you might expect.
In fact, University of Phoenix has helped thousands of students achieve the higher education they need to achieve higher success. We can help you too.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Top Online Master’s Degrees

Are you searching for the best online colleges to get your master’s degree? Let us help you find the best school to meet your needs and dreams. At Master Degree Online, we help you make an informed decision before committing your time and money to an online degree. If you want to continue your education and improve your job prospects but don’t know where to start, use our degree finder to find the school or master’s degree program that is best for you. Check out our blog and articles to find answers to your most common questions about online colleges and master’s degrees. Whether you are going back to school to get your MBA or your Master’s in Information Technology, we can find the best online college for you.
University of Phoenix - Master's Degrees. University of Phoenix offers a variety of upper level degrees that students can take entirely online. As one of the largest online universities in operation, Phoenix has the degrees every student desires.
More Info from Capella University Capella University - Master's Degrees. Capella University allows students to never set foot in a classroom and take classes from home. With degree courses online, students can get their affordable Master's Degree quickly and easily.
Northeastern University - Master's Degrees. Offering some of the most sought-after degrees, Northeastern University designs their programs to adhere to the standards employers are seeking for today. Even students with time constraints will find Northeastern University an ideal choice with their flexible online courses.
Liberty University
Liberty University - Master's Degrees. Liberty University offers high quality online upper level degrees to students at affordable prices. With degrees in high growth industries, students have a chance to get a job immediately after graduation.
Congratulations on making the decision to continue your education with a graduate degree. According to the U.S. Department of Education, having a Master’s degree will raise your earnings by an average of over $9,000 a year from those with a Bachelor’s degree and over twice as much as what you would earn with only a high school diploma. The extra time and money you devote to your education will pay off over the long run, so you want to make sure your investment is a wise one. The information offered here at Master Degree Online will help you determine what type of graduate education will meet your needs.
Earning an online graduate degree has become popular due to the flexibility of the scheduling, allowing students to work full-time jobs in addition to their studies. Attending an online school means you save time spent on commuting; you save money on gas, parking, and other expenses such as babysitting; and you may even shorten your study time with many online programs requiring less time to complete than traditional graduate programs. Due to the rise in popularity of online graduate degrees, more and more quality schools have made their programs available.
Employers have also come to respect the education of those who earn their Master’s degrees online. Top schools such as Harvard Business School and MIT’s Sloan School of Management now offer online degrees, putting to rest any concerns about the quality of an online education. Being able to juggle school and full-time work also shows employers that you are not only motivated, but that you have what it takes to succeed. With an estimation of only 9.4% of the U.S. population holding a graduate degree, you will put yourself in an elite category of candidates for career positions, allowing for better job prospects.

Masters Degree Programs

Welcome to most comprehensive listing of Masters programs in the world on quantitative finance, financial engineering and its related sciences.

Profiles: The profiles are all of our own work and are compiled with information provided to us by the institution or relevant sources in question. The "Global Derivatives View" is merely a brief commentary as to our thoughts on each individual program - These commentaries should be in no way taken as rankings of any kind, nor should they be considered the general viewpoint. You may choose to accept these commentaries with the understanding that they have been compiled by Global Derivatives research having taken into account all the information available as well as a collection of all surveys taken thus far. However, certain programs with little or no feedback / information have blanks on their summaries.
UK & Ireland

Brunel UniversityMSc Modelling and Management of Risk Middlesex, UK
Cambridge University - Judge School Master of Finance Cambridge, UK
Cambridge University - Judge School MPhil Finance (Financial Engineering Specialisation) Cambridge, UK
City University - Cass School MSc Financial Mathematics London, UK Laura Ballotta
City University - Cass School MSc Quantitative Finance (Formerly FEE) London, UK Harry Kat
City University - Cass School MSc Mathematical Finance & Trading London, UK
Dublin City University MSc Financial & Industrial Mathematics Dublin, Ireland
Herriot Watt University MSc Financial Mathematics Edinburgh, UK

Masters Degree Programs and PhD Programs

A college graduate with a bachelor degree may find that degree to be insufficient for the type of profession he would like to have. It may often be necessary to pursue an advanced degree, such as a US master’s degree or US doctorate (also knows as PhD) degree, to advance your career. For example, a US master’s degree may be necessary if you are seeking a position as an economist with your local government, or you may need a PhD degree to teach at a university in your country. In addition, some disciplines are taught only at the graduate school program level in the USA. Among these are law, medicine, and dentistry, both of which are doctoral programs.


Not all USA colleges and universities offer USA masters degree programs. Even fewer offer US PhD degree programs. Also, the number of majors offered at the graduate level by a graduate school will usually be much smaller than the number of majors at the undergraduate level. Occasionally, a school will only offer a major at the graduate program level. For example, Stanford University offers a USA master’s degree in business administration, but offers no undergraduate business degree program. Search our list of top US graduate schools offering master's degree programs and PhD degree programs.

The US masters degree is a graduate school degree that typically requires two years of full-time graduate school coursework to complete. Unlike students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, students in a master’s degree program will complete courses that are highly focused in their field of study (their major). As such, students must have already decided on their major before applying to a master’s degree program.

The US PhD degree or doctoral degree is even more focused and specialized than the master’s degree. Some students will complete a master’s degree before applying to a doctorate degree program, but that is not always necessary. Completion of a US doctorate degree typically takes between three and six years. The length of time will depend on the student’s educational background (a student with a master’s degree may take less time to complete his PhD if it is in the same field), the field of study selected, the student’s dedication and ability, and the complexity of the thesis the student has chosen for his PhD. The thesis is a very long, extensive, and original research paper that is a requirement for completing the PhD program. (Some master’s degree programs also require a thesis, but it is much simpler and shorter than the PhD program thesis.) Get detailed information by searching our list of top US graduate schools offering master's degree programs and PhD degree programs. US and Canadian students can view an extensive list of online masters degrees programs.

Master's Degrees Online

Earning a master's degree usually requires one to three years of postgraduate or graduate study. The two basic types of masters degrees offered in the U.S. are the Master's of Arts and Master's of Science. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, master's degree holders earned an average of $1,102 per week, almost $200 more than those with bachelor's degrees.
A master's degree is a graduate, or post-baccalaureate, degree awarded to candidates who complete one to three years of concentrated study in a field of knowledge. A master's level education can mean entry into a profession, the chance for promotion in an existing position, or personal enrichment and achievement. It's a degree only three percent of Americans ever attain, so the letters M.A. or M.S. on a business card or letterhead command respect.
Graduate education differs from undergraduate schooling. The coursework is significantly more demanding--and more interesting--and the students are more determined and goal-oriented. Those who lack self-discipline quickly fall by the wayside; those who remain can form friendships and develop wisdom that lasts a lifetime. Networking is built into the master's degree experience, as students form professional connections with peers, professors, and experts in their chosen field. In fact, the social benefits of master's degree programs come as a pleasant surprise and welcome support to students who get their graduate degrees online.

Online Masters Degrees in Business Administration

The Master of Business Administration degree (MBA) is the most popular business qualification in the world, and it is fast becoming a prerequisite for management positions. A Masters in Business Administration (MBA) develops students for the role managers play in defining business problems, assessing information, considering alternatives, and choosing the best solution.

Top Programs

University of Phoenix
With convenient class locations as well as online learning, University of Phoenix makes quality higher education highly accessible. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, we can help you reach your goal while you work-and much sooner than you might expect.
In fact, University of Phoenix has helped thousands of students achieve the higher education they need to achieve higher success. We can help you too.

Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University
A graduate degree really can make a difference, especially when it's from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University. The majority of our students balance work, family and school. That's why we offer online, evening and weekend classes in all of our master's degree programs, which include Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Information Systems, Project Management, Public Administration and Telecom Management.

Online Masters Of Management

Online master's degrees in management prepare students for a wide variety of career paths, which may be why it is one of the most popular online degrees pursued by students. Online courses in the following areas can be found in a management master's degree program:
Business
Leadership
Human resources
Communication
Entrepreneurial management
Online courses in management develop skill sets that are applicable to many industries, including trade, commerce, finance, manufacturing, entertainment, law, small business, and more. An online master's degree in management is a versatile degree designed to make graduates competitive in business.


DeVry University's Keller School of Management
When you’re a student at DeVry University, you’ll find support every step of the way. Our dedicated team of professors and academic advisors will help you stay on track to meet your educational and career goals. And when you’re ready, there are over 150 Career Services experts to guide your employment search. With our career fairs and on campus employment interviews, we’ll help connect you with sought‐after companies and today’s fastest growing careers.


University of Phoenix

With convenient class locations as well as online learning, University of Phoenix makes quality higher education highly accessible. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, we can help you reach your goal while you work-and much sooner than you might expect.
In fact, University of Phoenix has helped thousands of students achieve the higher education they need to achieve higher success. We can help you too.

Learning Styles and Entrance Requirements for Online Master’s Programs


Abstract
As more online graduate programs are created and traditional programs shift to an online format, the need to identify and understand skill sets necessary for students’ success becomes more apparent. Typically, graduate programs rely on entrance requirements such as the GRE, undergraduate GPA, and a writing sample to evaluate an applicant’s potential success. Is it reasonable to expect that other entrance requirements might be needed for student success in online graduate degree programs?
Research comparing learning and personality styles of online learners exists; however, application of this information as part of the admissions process for online graduate programs is sporadic. How important is the identification and understanding of the skill sets necessary for success of the online learners? Should the entrance requirements be different for online graduate programs; and if so, what should be included?
Students currently enrolled in an online masters program were measured for personality and learning styles. The survey results were compared with data from previously published research. A survey of the Engineering Technology Listserve also gathered data from online programs to identify entrance requirements and perceptions of faculty regarding learning styles.
Introduction
Predicting the skill sets necessary for student success becomes more complex as universities develop online graduate programs and add online components to their traditional programs. Traditionally, graduate programs rely on entrance requirements such as a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score, anundergraduate grade point average (GPA), and a writing sample to evaluate an applicant’s potential success in the program. Much of the literature supports the use of traditional methods for predicting student success in graduate programs. Is it reasonable to speculate that these same entrance requirements can predict success in a graduate degree program that is delivered online? Should the entrance requirements be different for online programs, and if so, how? Where do personalities and learning style preferences fit into this puzzle?
After a review of literature related to entrance requirements and learning style inventories, this paper will explore the usefulness of such inventories as entrance criteria for online learning, particularly in technical management master’s programs. Two surveys were conducted to seek answers to the questions raised above. One survey measured students currently enrolled in online master’s courses for personality and learning styles. The second survey asked members of an Engineering Technology Listserve several questions related to entrance requirements for online master’s programs.
Overview Of Online Technical Management Master’s Degree Requirements
To assess the current entrance requirements for technical managerial master’s degree programs, 16 online degree programs were randomly selected using the Web portal Gradschools.com. Table 1 shows the institutions, degree programs, and their respective entrance requirements. Of the selected programs, most do not require completion of a standardized test.


College/University
Online Master’s
Programs
GRE or
GPA
Writing
Bachelor’s
Ref.
CV
GMAT
Statement/Essay
Degree
Letters
Resume
Kettering University
Mfg. Operations
3.00
Any

Kettering University
Mfg. Management
3.00
Any
Central Michigan
University
Masters in Admin.
à
2.70

Any
Bellevue University
Acquisition &
Contract Mgmt.
2.50
Any
University of
Central Missouri
Industrial Mgmt.
2.60

Any


Illinois Institute
of Technology
Industrial Tech.
& Ops.
√‡
3.00

Any

Southern Methodist University
Mfg. Systems Mgmt.
3.00

BS

Texas A&M
University
Industrial Distribution

3.00

Any


East Carolina
University
Mfg. Systems

2.50
Any


Wildau Institute
of Technology
Aviation Mgmt.

Any


Marist University
Technology Mgmt.
√♯
3.00
Prefer BS

New England College
Project Mgmt.
3.00

Any


University of
Bridgeport
Technology Mgmt.
2.80
BS

Bemidji State
University
Industrial Tech.
2.75
Prefer BS

Western Kentucky University
Technology Mgmt.

2200*
Any
Southern New
Hampshire University
Operations &
Project Mgmt.
3.00
Any


Online Master’s Degree in Special Education with Professional Certification as Educational Diagnostician FAQs


MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY


Program Description: The Masters of Education Degree with a major in Special Education
is designed for the practicing teacher to build professional knowledge and practical skills.
Completion of degree requirements will allow the candidate to become certified as an
Educational Diagnostician. Candidates who are not practicing special educators may be
required to complete leveling courses. As a student of the program you will:

  •  Apply what you learn through meaningful practicum experiences
  •  Be conversant with the literature of the field and evidence-based practices.
  •  Understand the issues, trends, and research that influence contemporary education.
How is instruction delivered?
Instruction is delivered using a variety of methods. Instruction for this program can be described as meaningful, rigorous, and flexible in its delivery. A brief description the types of methods appear below:
  1.  Traditional Online instruction Tools using Blackboard/WebCT that allows for posting of information, discussion boards, online assessment, email, and communication tools.
  2.  Textbooks/Professional Library : An educational diagnostician needs a professional library in order to be effective. Textbooks are best viewed as tools and as an investment in this program and will become part of your professional library.
  3.  DVD/CD instruction: Courses in individualized assessment have traditionally have been delivered in the classroom with the instructor demonstrating, student practicing, and then the student practicing with real children. Test companies now supply training videos and webinars to teach how to administer and score their testing instruments (WISC-4, WJ-III, and KABC). This instruction is usually provided by the author of the test who is regarded as the authority on the instrument. Instruction via distance is very similar to the instruction in the classroom. The following sequence to teach each instrument is: 1) become familiar with test kit and manual, 2) watch DVD/CD (pause and practice), 3) recruit real subject and practice, 4) score and report, and 5) reflect.
  4. Once you learn the basics of test administration and have practiced using several instruments, you will be able to use these skills to administer and score other instruments. As you go through your career, new and revised instruments will come out periodically. You will actually go through this same sequence as a practicing diagnostician.
  5.  Video-Conferencing: Using video sharing software,webcam, and microphone, we have the ability to communicate, share a computer screen, observe, record, and teach. A webcam and microphone is all that is needed (less than 25$).
  6.  Practicum experiences: The online option (and traditional option too) requires extensive field experiences including testing students from a wide range of age groups and backgrounds, parents, and supervised experiences with educational 
    diagnosticians. This is in addition to the hands-on experience you will gain from the other courses. This will ensure your competency and confidence as an educational diagnostician.
What if I already have a Masters Degree and want to become an educational diagnostician?
Students who already possess a master’s degree can become an educational diagnostician via distance education too. A transcript review will be conducted and an individualized deficiency plan will be developed based on this review. Past deficiency plans have ranged from 18-36 hours. In general, the more special education courses you have taken, the fewer hours it will require.

What is the admission requirement for the West College of Education?
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All students seeking admission to graduate programs in the West College of Education
must meet three types of admission requirements: University requirements, West College
of Education requirements, and specific program requirements. University requirements
for admission to graduate study are in the Academic and University Information
section (see pages 20-21).
1. Students must make a passing score of 3.5 on the GRE writing sample in order
to be admitted to the program. A student failing to pass the test must retake the
analytical writing portion of the GRE and earn a passing score or take the GRE
ScoreItNow test, which requires a passing score of 4.0. Students who do not make
a satisfactory score on the writing must enroll in ENGL 2113 or an approved
equivalent course and make a grade of B or higher.
2. Students who have a GPA of at least 3.0 in their last 60 hours of undergraduate
courses (excluding community college work) may be admitted with a score of at
least 405 on the MillerAnalogies Test and are not required to take the GRE. Students
who choose to take theMAT are required to take the GRE ScoreItNow test,
which requires a passing score of 4.0.
3. Admission to a specific program also requires a satisfactory background of undergraduate
course work and experience. Admission to all programs requires 18
to 24 hours of acceptable undergraduate course work. Leveling work may be required
if a student needs additional undergraduate background. Admission to all
programs except the M.A. in Counseling, Human Resource Development, and
Training and Development requires appropriate teacher certification. Persons not
interested in Texas Professional Certification may be exempt from this requirement.
Admission to the counseling or educational leadership programs requires a
screening interview. Specific program requirements are listed with each program
major and option.
4. Students who enter as non-degree seeking or professional development status and
are later admitted to the graduate program may apply 9 hours to a graduate degree
if the completed course work is approved by the Graduate Coordinator and Dean
of the College.