Day: December 28, 2016

The Technology You Need for an Online Degree

Signing up to study for a degree such as a masters in criminal justice online can be a very exciting process, and you’re probably more than ready to get started and take your education to the next level. But, studying online is in many ways different from the type of studying that you’re probably used to if you attended a conventional high school and on-campus classes when you went to college as an undergraduate. Having the right tech is essential to completing an online degree as you will need to use technology daily to complete and submit your work. We’ve put together a complete list of the technology that you need to make studying for an online degree an enjoyable experience.

Laptop

First and foremost, in order to complete an online degree, you will need a good laptop. Chances are that you already have a laptop as they are in many ways essential to our daily lives today, however, if you have a laptop that’s getting on a bit and running slowly, upgrading before you begin your degree program is probably going to be the wisest move. This is because completing an online degree, such as an online criminal justice masters degree from Boston University, will require you to use a laptop to access your program materials, get in touch with support staff and tutors, and submit your assignments or tests.

E-Reading Device or Tablet

When studying for an online degree, especially if you’ve chosen to take a masters or other advanced program, you can expect to have to do a lot of reading. Not only will you need to read course notes and online lecture slides, you’ll also be expected to further your knowledge by studying textbooks, journals, and other reading materials which are relevant to your program. However, physical books can be expensive and can also take up a lot of space in your home and anyone who’s ever carried a bag full of textbooks around with them will know it’s not comfortable. But, an e-reading device such as a Kindle, or even a tablet with an e-reading app installed, can make it easy for you to download and keep all of your course reading materials in one easily accessible place, making it a very worthwhile investment. Not only that, but digital copies of books are often cheaper, meaning that it could save you money in the long run.

Web Cams and Headsets

Although most modern laptops will have a webcam and audio devices built in, investing in a good web cam and headset is important for you as an online student. If your laptop webcam isn’t the best quality or the sound is a little unreliable, you may struggle with parts of your course if it’s not easy and convenient to get hold of a tutor to speak to. Having a good quality webcam and a headset with a microphone will ensure that any conversations that you have with virtual support staff run smoothly and allow you to get the most from them.

Which tech could you not do an online degree without? Let us know in the comments.

6 Great Degrees That Are a Worthwhile Investment

University can be incredibly expensive. Even with grants or scholarships, which are often available, you will still need money for course materials and living expenses. This often puts people off either studying, or furthering their education. However, there are some degrees that are much more likely to lead to a well-paid job once you graduate. Others don’t necessarily pay wonderfully, but they are in growing industries where there is always a need for staff, making it much more likely that you will secure a job once graduated. These are six degrees that are definitely worth your investment.

Nursing

As the population continues to age, the need for nurses increases. There is currently a huge nursing shortage across the country, so your services would certainly be appreciated. Whether you wanted to work in a practice, hospital or even an old people’s home, there would be jobs available. Nursing is also a great option for those looking to work with some flexibility.

Health Administration

Careers in health administration vary hugely. If you choose to study an MHA, there would be a lot of MHA careers available to you. As opposed to some degrees which just take you down one set career path.

Teaching

Year on year, more people take their education further. With more courses offered by many different establishments, teachers of all levels are always in need. A teaching degree could lead to a challenging but rewarding career. Teaching also offers many transferable skills. You could for example work in learning and development running training courses for large companies.

Computer Science

More industries rely on computers and the internet for day to day functions than ever before. Even industries like construction use computers for design, plans and budgeting, as well as communication. A degree in computer science could see you go into a career in web or software development, or even working as an IT expert or consultant in many different industries.

Design

Design skills will always be needed. From web design or logos, to more physical designs such as interior design or fashion. It’s relatively easy to work as a freelance designer, setting up your own website, advertising your specific skills and taking work you are interested in.

Marketing

Marketing is another great career for those looking to work flexibly. You could work freelance, or mainly from home. The world of marketing is currently going through a great period of change. As traditional methods take a back seat to modern strategies of digital marketing. This makes it a great time to study marketing.

Of course, job satisfaction isn’t all about money. A lot comes from doing a job you love, and having a great work life balance. So, if you want to do something that isn’t on this list, go for it. Equally, university isn’t just about the study. It’s also about making new friends, and sharing experiences. So, if you know you’d like to continue your education, but aren’t sure what to do, one of these degrees would at least ensure you get your money’s worth.