(EMAILWIRE.COM, December 03, 2009 ) Fort Lauderdale, FL No one would argue that the prospect of getting a degree from an online university seems a bit shady. When it comes to finding a school that perfectly fits your needs, you may not even consider going near a university that doesn’t require you to shell out tens of thousands of dollars and sit in uncomfortably dark and mouldy classrooms. However, why not take a chance on a school with just as much accreditation as any traditional university but with better scenery (namely your bedroom) and a more realistic approach to funding? Online universities are becoming more and more prominent in the academic world, yet many still find their legitimacy questionable. Well, question no more. www.degree.com – The Premier Internet Portal for Online Study has sifted through the bologna and listed the 25 top online degree programs in the nation. With Professor Sheila Danzig, Director of Degree.com, at the helm, the website has made it possible for those students who wish to continue on a more non-traditional path to academic success to do so without even leaving the sanctity of their own homes. This elite 25 is a group of universities that consist of instructors from different professional backgrounds, many with advanced degrees in their particular field. Not only do these universities offer their students some of the greatest minds from which to siphon their knowledge, they offer a plethora of degree distinctions and programs that will help each student change his or her own stars no matter their current situation. Whatever your passion, whatever your eventual destination, these universities are sure to have something that will stimulate your mind and at least give you the tools necessary to be successful no matter on what path life takes you. In order to find out which school best suits your needs you’ll need to take a gander at the selection that Degree.com has to offer. Rest assured there are online degree courses that will give you the confidence to seek higher education to r begin your career, or seek higher education to give you the credentials to shoot for the career of your dreams. Each online university that Degree.com has listed comes complete with a basic description and a way in which you may acquire further information directly from the university. The next step is to determine what it is you’re looking for in a university. For most, the chance to get an acclaimed degree from a university with a good name is enough to pay through the backside; however, with an online degree you’re saving yourself virtually hundreds of dollars for a four year education that is just as viable through an online university that will ultimately cost you a mere fraction of that fee. In the long run, it’s always about money –how much something costs and how much you can save with the alternative. If you’re looking for a university that is as legitimate as it is easy on your bank account, searching the files of Degree.com is your path to sure academic and financial success.

(EMAILWIRE.COM, December 02, 2009 ) Fort Lauderdale, FL – With unemployment rates now approaching record levels, many people are choosing or giving serious consideration to a change in career. Making the choice for change in itself is not easy. Choosing a direction with a lucrative future, however, is proving to be just as difficult. The economy is changing, and so, by default, is the job outlook for the future. Career paths that were once considered rock solid for job security are beginning to wobble. A degree in business will be useless if few opportunities to put it to work in the future exist. In such a volatile economic climate, where do you start to make a knowledgeable choice in education and training that will prepare for the future? Start with “green”, as in green economy, green industry and green jobs.

What is “green”? In a report for the US Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration by the Occupational Information Network, the green economy is defined as “the economic activity related to reducing the use of fossil fuels, decreasing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, increasing the efficiency of energy usage, recycling materials, and developing and adopting renewable sources of energy.” President Obama has placed a priority on building a national clean energy industry that would remedy both our dependence on foreign resources and the need to create new jobs. His plan calls for the development of a definable green economy and industry.

In the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, $80 billion has been set aside for clean energy investments. Within that allocation, $600 million is designated for job training in the green industry. But what exactly does someone who works in the green industry do? What kind of green industry jobs will there be, and what training will be needed?

The Occupational Information Network’s report has designated twelve different job sectors that cover what is considered the green industry. The sectors are:

Agriculture and Forestry
Energy and Carbon Capture and Storage
Energy Efficiency
Energy Trading
Environment Protection
Governmental and Regulatory Administration
Green Construction
Manufacturing
Recycling and Waste Reduction
Renewable Energy Generation
Research, Design and Consulting Services
Transportation

Within these sectors, they have highlighted over 100 occupations as either being Enhanced Skill or Increased Demand. Additionally, nearly 50 have been classified as New and Emerging Occupations.

Preparing for a career in any of the green industry sectors ranges, as in any field, from a master’s or bachelor’s degree to certification training. As a developing industry, not all educational institutions have implemented environmental-related programs yet. Recent findings have shown several green industry-focused online degree programs available. These programs include online courses that cover such subjects as sustainability concepts, management of green enterprises and administration of environmental policy.

The relative newness of the green industry and preparing for a career related to it warrants a bit of caution. Sheila Danzig, Director of Degree.com, warns that it is critical to be certain that the institution administering the program, whether it is by way of a physical campus or online study, is accredited.

(EMAILWIRE.COM, September 29, 2009 ) Sunrise, FL

With recession haunting just about every sphere of life and making careers miserable, an online master’s degree course can prove to be an ideal option to pursue. With so many acquiring a bachelor’s degree, getting a high paying job has never been as difficult as it is today. Now, you have more competition and in order to make your dreams come to reality, you need an influential course like masters degree program. However, because of so many things happening in your life at the same time, you are unable to pursue a course traditionally. This is where online masters program comes to your rescue.

There are a number of ways in which an online master’s degree can help you build a stronger career and that too without the headache of attending an institution. Moreover, if an online master’s degree is obtained from an accredited institute, you have better skills and advanced knowledge, especially when it comes to your comparison with the people holding an undergraduate degree. Now, how can one ignore the fact that companies prefer individuals holding a Masters Degree for high paying positions? This means, if you hold a Masters Degree, you don’t need to worry about getting a nice job even in this economic crisis.

Often, there are certain ideal positions in your field but only candidates having a graduate degree are eligible to apply for such positions. So, if you have a Masters Degree, you too can apply for the job and then get that position too.

There is no doubt in the fact that unless you don’t have what it takes to have the executive position, you can’t reach that level. On the contrary, if you successfully complete an MBA through an online course, you become eligible to apply for the high paying and reputed positions. An additional degree certainly enhances your qualification and when you have a Masters Degree as an employee, you are an apple of your boss’s eye. Therefore, you are not only hired on a long term basis but have more chances of getting promotions. You can even enjoy extra benefits like stock options.

Opting for an online Masters Program is an ideal choice for working adults.
For adults having so many responsibilities on their shoulders, attending a traditional college for Higher Education can be extremely bothering, but when you have a number of online learning programs, what’s the need of going somewhere you would hate to be. Nowadays, there are various online master’s degree program options available for professionals and busy adults. Holding an additional degree can definitely take you and your career to an influential and improved level.

To find the best online masters degree for your needs visit www.Degree.com the premier internet portal for online degrees.

(EMAILWIRE.COM, September 24, 2009 ) Prospective students wishing to begin or advance their college education online all have one goal: to get the best college degree, from the best online college so that they can get the highest paying job available to them. The key is to get a degree that will be widely accepted in any job market. The important question therefore is, “What characterizes the best online colleges and universities?” It is very vital for every prospective student to know the answer to this question.

www.Degree.com the premier Internet online degree portal recently had an informal survey of graduates to learn what they recommend in order to find the best job.

According to the Degree.com executive director Sheila Danzig, the result is a brief list of the general characteristics the prospective online student should look out for when you decide to choose an online college:

• Accreditation
The student should ensure that the university is accredited by any one of the six regional accreditation associates. Accreditation from any one of the six associates (Western, Southern, Northwest, North Central, New England, Middle States) is proof of quality education provided by the institution as well as the degree itself which will be accepted anywhere in the job market.

• Proven Online Success
Many online universities are sprouting from every ‘corner of the globe’ but very few have been able to survive the competition and are successful. This is particularly so because of glitches in their systems, for instance: difficulty in downloading learning materials and uploading assignments, very limited technical support in installing and using the institution’s programs. All these can be avoided if the university provides a demo version of the program to prospective students to act as a sign of their confidence in their learning program.

• Certified Online Faculty
Before enrolling in any online higher learning institution you MUST ensure that the tutors from the institution are adequately trained and qualified to teach in an online environment as well as having appropriate credentials making them able to transmit their knowledge and expertise to you, the student. This should be a great determining factor since some colleges and universities (online ones), may employ classroom teachers who do not suffice in the online education environment.

• Financial Aid Option
Securing a degree is a heavy financial burden, therefore if one is in a position of getting financial aid to finance higher learning – it is welcomed relief. Although online education has very limited options, you should ensure that you apply for all available options that suit your needs from the prospective university you wish to enroll in. Scholarships offered by your university would be an ideal option but if you are unable to secure one, low interest student loans would be the next best alternative.

• Satisfied graduates
All universities are very good in advertising their education programs and thus it is not very advisable to believe what they publish on their websites e.g. “THE BEST ONLINE UNIVERSITY”, “QUALITY AT ITS BEST” etc. A sure way to believe that they are as good as they claim, is by getting testimonials from current students in that particular online university or its alumni. Should you not personally know any student currently or previously enrolled in the university, the university should be more than glad to offer you some contacts.

The above is the criteria any prospective online student should be on the lookout. Should the university they wish to enroll in fall short of the above, they should refine their search until they locate one that combines all the above options.

(EMAILWIRE.COM, July 09, 2009 ) Los Angeles, CA July 9, 2009

In an online degree survey students shared their concerns and www.Degree.com hears them.

The voices are loud and the message is clear: education is important, especially in these trying economic times, so Degree.com opened their ears and paid attention to what the online degree seekers and Degree.com users and followers are saying.

Everyone wants more information. More information about degrees. More information about financial aid. More information about scholarships. More information about the schools. In response to this clamor for more information on education through online degree programs, Degree.com is expanding the web site to include a greater range of resources that would help you gain access to the kind of information you need to pursue the degree that would unlock a world of knowledge and riches on your way to a better and brighter future
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The expansion will include more resources on schools focusing on colleges, universities, vocational and technical schools as well as community colleges. The pre-existing section of the website will be bolstered with new data and a more comprehensive list of institutions to choose from in your search for the perfect school to obtain your degree from.

Degree.com will also include in depth information on financial aid opportunities. This is a crucial aspect of attaining an educational degree especially in this bleak economic landscape. The recession and lack of job opportunities are prompting more and more of us to turn to alternative means of funding our education. This is one of the reasons why degree.com is reinforcing its database of scholarships, grants, fellowships and student loan package programs that are available through different institutions and organizations. Degree.com is expanding this section of the site to include a guide to help students choose the right financial aid package for their funding needs.

Finally, degree.com is also proud to announce that they have added more information on accreditation, which is important for potential students to understand which institutions have the endorsement of different educational monitoring agencies and thus meet the standards set for providing competent education to students. With the advent of modern technology, many online universities have been sprouting over the web like electronic mushrooms, and the need for a governing body’s seal of approval is more apparent now than ever. Students need to know that the online school they are getting their degree from is accredited and that the degree they are getting is therefore recognized as legitimate.

Sheila Danzig, executive director of www.Degree.com said, “We will leave no rock untouched, no stone unturned as we continue to grow bigger and better at providing you with the tools you need to make that educational dream come true.” Degree.com has what students need and Degree.com is proud to deliver the results to the students. Feel free to browse through site and click away at the links to connect you to a world of educational resources that would take you a step closer to that sought-after degree. Several informal online studies show that the more you know the lower your tuition will be and the more financial aid you will get. Knowledge is power even when you are selecting the right program. For an overview of financial aid and more go to http://degree.com/financial-aid-information.htm

(EMAILWIRE.COM, June 18, 2009 )
Alarming statistics have been put forward showing the increased rate of college dropouts. Back in the 1960s college dropout rates were as low as one (1) in every five (5) students, this shifted to one (1) in every three (3) in the 1990s. Figures from the Department of Education for 2000 through 2008 show that 30% of student enrolled on schools leave in their first year and a shocking 50% never graduate. Figures are expected to continue increasing as various factors continue to affect students.

Among the greater issues include lack of fees and disability to balance between jobs and school.

On the latter issue of balance between jobs and school, a sure remedy would be to earn a degree online. This will enable students to work during the necessary hours and be able to fit online classes in their busy schedules. As challenging as it is to study online it is a lot simpler to attend online classes than missing classes in traditional colleges. This is because of the numerous advantages that are availed in online degree programs.

The online student can have a one-on-one interaction with his or her professor via emails and Instant Messaging. They can also attend lectures anywhere provided they have a portable device connected to the internet hence chances of missing scheduled classes would be very minimal if any. They can also be in a position to go at their own pace to ensure full understanding of a concept.

In you feel that an online degree program would best suit you and wipe the title ‘college dropout’ off your conscience then click this link www.degree.com to view various courses offered by accredited online institutions.

Regarding the former issue of lack of fees being a reason for college dropouts, the government under the great campaign of the US President, Mr. Barrack Obama, has worked out a way to help in offering financial aid to the many students who qualify for the federal financial aid – Pell Grant.
The President has negotiated with Congress to allow up to a maximum of $5500 to needy college drop-outs who have insufficient funds to sponsor their own college education. To have an overview as to whether you are eligible for a Pell Grant visit http://www.degree.com/federal-student-aid.htm and assess your options. Studies have found that people who investigate more than three options end up paying less in tuition and paying lower tuition. Spend time now and save money later. The tuition varies greatly between colleges and some financial aid offices are more knowledgeable than others. Be sure to figure out your full tuition and aid before you enroll.

It is best to get a degree in a field that is growing and hiring. You are a few steps from completing those fields – criminal justice degree or BS in Information technology online. So don’t waste precious time and visit http://www.degree.com/federal-student-aid.htm now. The sooner you start the program the closer you are to a new higher paid career.

(EMAILWIRE.COM, June 17, 2009 ) Who said teenage moms cannot graduate college?
Teenage mothers, just as any other ‘regular’ mom, want what’s best for their children. Dropping out of college or not considering a college education isn’t a wise move for them or for the child either. Typically a teenage mom can still be able to raise their children as well as secure a brighter future which will make them advance in their careers.

All they need to do is take a bold step and invest in their future by taking online degree programs. By doing this, they will be able to kill two birds with one stone, meaning they will be able to raise their children and still graduate school all from the comfort of home. This is also ideal to prevent emotional trauma caused by stigmatization of the teenage mothers in ‘stone and brick’ colleges. This only adds as to why this can be the best decision a teenage mom may make.

Since online classes are flexible you may schedule for them when the child needs little attention like when he or she is asleep or playing. There is no need for child care or babysitters and no need to leave the children at all. Visit www.degree.com to check on a comprehensive list of top online schools that you can enroll in whenever you feel you are ready.

For teenage mothers who cannot sponsor their own college fees, they may talk to financial aid advisers in various institutions (colleges) and get to know which options are available for mothers. They would be required to fill out financial aid applications annually to keep them in the system and remain considered for the aid.

Pell grants are available for any mother who is able to meet income guidelines. This means that provided you can provide a previous years’ financial income statement you are eligible for this grant which may amount to a dazzling $5,500 per annum. An ideal grant would be the National Pell Grant. These grants are available for post grad or under grad degree that will land you in an education degree.

Overall, there are a number of teenage mother grants available, they include: Pell Grants, Private grants, money from special programs for low income earning moms, employer grants and more. All you need to do is take time and research in depth on what would be ideal. You may start your endeavors here: http://www.degree.com/federal-student-aid.htm

(EMAILWIRE.COM, June 16, 2009 )
President Barrack Obama has been on the fore-front campaign on the spread literacy to any American who is willing to get education. He encourages them to earn a graduate degree online. This will ultimately result into a boost in the economy as well as personal gain of the unemployed to better their lives by moving up…

President Obama addressed this issue from a unique point of view which involved making unemployment insurance a critical stepping stone for future work. His success on this matter lies in the willingness of colleges and the various States to alter the rules which they have been using in the past.

On 8th May, 2009, Mr. President while announcing the proposed rule change, asked the Labor Department to request States to make exceptions so that the unemployed (especially the laid off) may keep their benefits if they decide to attend an online bachelor degree program or the traditional ‘stone and brick’ college. This is paramount because once the unemployment benefits have been taken away from them; they are unable to qualify for federal aid since they are required to show proof of regular financial income. This link http://www.degree.com/federal-student-aid.htm will give an overview of federal financial aid for those who are interested.

Owing to the fact that State governments and not Washington decide who is eligible for unemployment or not, they require them to be actively looking for jobs. In the long run, this may complicate ability to attend school and therefore the stress on enrolling for online degree programs. A list of accredited institutions offering such is available on www.degree.com
In his speech, President Obama announced that the Education Department will require colleges to consider financial situations of the unemployed masses applying for Pell Grants and other types of financial aid available in the institutions. As a result, from July 2009, low income earning students will receive a Pell Grant of between $5oo and $5,350.

George Boggs, current president of the American Association of Community Colleges, applauded Obama saying that he will remove obstacles and disincentives that have hindered the unemployed from seeking higher education. 

However, one state-level critic (South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford, a Republican) accused Obama of avoiding a very important question about – cost! He is quoted as having said, “Like so many of the president’s initiatives, the answer for who pays the bill is state taxpayers and future generations and no matter how well-intentioned this proposal is, we can’t keep stacking debt on top of debt to deal with problems that were, in many cases, created by too much borrowing.”

In conclusion, Obama’s is an initiative welcomed by many and you may visit www.degree.com to be able to get information on the best institution offering marketing and education, or any other degree program of your choice.

(EMAILWIRE.COM, June 15, 2009 )

The only sure way to advance your career is by getting academic degrees starting with an online associates degree or online bachelor degee. If you have a college degree, keep going and get a masters degree.

However, in such a time as this of economic recession, many cannot afford being admitted into an institution. Distance learning has been spearheaded by the internet and technologies which make use of it. Currently, there are numerous virtual universities offering online degrees hence a lot of careful thought should be put in when considering which one to enroll in. This is more so because of fraudsters who create their own virtual institutions that have not been accredited and offer useless degrees. To insure that you enroll in only an accredited program visit an online degree portal such as www.degree.com where only accredited programs are listed.

Various factors must be considered in determining the ideal institution for you. For persons seeking a degree program for which they can graduate in less time, the ideal course for him would be one that offers completion in 2 years by taking more courses at a time. For the more serious people out there wishing to be promoted in the work-place via intense knowledge and skills empowerment, taking the full four years might be preferred. Virtually all potential employers will require the degree presented by a potential worker be from an accredited institution so as to confirm the competence of such a worker.

In instances like this, factors such as: credentials of the professor or lecturer should be outlaid, type of course-work material and other necessary educational facilities offered by the university should be paramount. Some institutions provide further avenues for advancing careers even after graduating you; this would make them attract more e-students.

In conclusion, while researching, it is necessary to keep an eye out for both the appropriate degree as well as the institution offering it. The two must go hand in hand for you to make an informed decision. Such information can be acquired from detailed websites which have a support team or a contact to aid prospective students in knowing all they can possibly want to.

Distance learning is no longer a concept which many think of as ‘not feasible’. It is vital for career advancement. All you need is a portal to locating such quality material which is available at www.degree.com Keep in mind that all online degree programs offer financial aid for students.

Online degree programs are becoming more and more popular because of the benefits they provide to all students. Although these programs are taken up by a majority of students, there are still certain students who are doubtful about taking an online college program. The non-traditional way of studies is something new especially for students who have been in practice of performing manual studies from the very beginning. Some students think that they will do better in a traditional college and doing online studies could negatively influence their study habits.But that is one side of the picture. These online programs actually have solutions to all such problems and concerns.

When you have decided to take up an online study program, you need to have a detailed analysis of various factors. You need to perform a lot of research by comparing the facts and figures to your situation. You need to choose programs that suit your skills the best and once the subjects of interest are chosen, you can opt for the appropriate degree program. You should then search for online training programs or tutorials that can guide you through out. For instance, a student is interested in becoming a chartered accountant and after doing a lot of research he decides to pick ACCA as a degree, he/she can study all the subjects online, learn from free lecture videos and even join ACCA forums to have proper guidance and regular updates. Similarly there are online degree programs like business management degree online, marketing degree, online counseling programs and even degree programs in healthcare.

Now, let us talk about the benefits of online education. Well, the greatest advantage is the convenience and flexibility of studies. You can study according to your mood. If you do not like studying in early morning hours, you can study late at night. There is no need to worry about ironing clothes every morning and waking up early at 5’o clock, anymore.

Now, if you think, “I won’t have a college atmosphere and can not discuss issues with friends in an online study program.” Then, let me correct you. There are student forums where you can meet co-students and discuss issues with them. So, you have an opportunity to interact with new people and learn from their experiences. Above all, you can take online exams, making the study program even more flexible.

Everything has both positive and negative aspects. So, the greatest negative trait of online education is that your success depends upon you i.e. it all depends on your research and how many hours you give to your education. As this system is lenient, studying with a strict schedule is often rare. Besides, some people may suffer from health problems because of continuous exposure to computer screen.

Always keep one thing in mind. No matter which online program you choose, it all depends on your will to study and the passion to do something big in your life. So, make the right research and do what’s best for you.