What is an Accelerated Online College?

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Accelerated online degree programs, such as those offered at Excelsior University, offer students an opportunity to earn a quality degree faster with the flexibility they need to reach their academic goals while meeting job and personal responsibilities.

Excelsior’s online programs give students the opportunity to pursue their education from anywhere they have a reliable Internet connection. Most courses are eight weeks in length and start at intervals throughout the year. These aspects of online learning combined with a generous transfer policy, allow students to earn a degree much faster than they can at a traditional four-year university.

Students new to accelerated online degree programs may wonder how online programs at Excelsior University work and what benefits they offer. The following provides an overview.

The Importance of Accreditation

Students interested in an accelerated online college program should focus on schools that are accredited. Excelsior University, for example, is a not-for-profit institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Earning accreditation is a rigorous process for an educational institution, but accreditation eliminates any concerns working adults have about the validity of the education they will receive. Accreditation also allows schools to take part in federal financial aid programs. Students can earn an accelerated degree without sacrificing any quality from their college education.

Ready to accelerate your career? Get started today with one of Excelsior’s more than 35 degree programs.

Start Dates and Class Length

Two of the biggest benefits of accelerated online college degree programs are transferring credits from previous knowledge and experience and start dates that allow students to enter a program when it works best for them.

Excelsior University offers six start dates per year. For a traditional, on-campus university, a typical semester lasts 15 to 16 weeks. Accelerated online course sessions typically run about four to eight weeks, and Excelsior offfers courses that are eight weeks in length. Students also take fewer courses per session. Shortened sessions make it more convenient for working adults to fit studying into their busy schedules.

Transfer Policy

Excelsior University offers students the ability to transfer credits from a variety of sources. They include academic credits from college courses and approved college-level exams, professional certificates, military training, and nursing licensing and certifications. With the ability to transfer credits from so many sources, students can significantly shorten the time and tuition expense required to finish a degree.

Preparation for the Workforce

An accelerated program curriculum often gets input from industry experts. This industry alignment ensures students learn the knowledge and skills that match what employers expect from college graduates. With online courses, working adults also can immediately apply what they learn to their jobs.

For example, the online Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business and Management prepares graduates with skills in a variety of areas. They include accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, employee relations, leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce.

At Excelsior University, students also have access to the Online Writing Lab, which helps students refresh writing skills and learn how to write certain assignments, such as essays.

An accelerated online college degree gives working adults an excellent option for earning an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree while maintaining their current job. Excelsior University is fully accredited and a pioneer in online education. It offers more than 35 academic programs that can help working adults achieve their academic goals.

Career Spotlight: Cardiac Nurse

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States. It’s no surprise then that we need healthcare professionals to care for patients affected by this disease and to promote heart health.

Cardiac nurses provide care for patients needing care for cardiovascular conditions and diseases. They work with patients of all ages and in all demographics, helping them to improve their health and carry out treatment plans.

If you think cardiovascular nursing is the field for you, read on to learn more about what nurses specializing in cardiac health do.

What Does a Cardiac Nurse Do?

Cardiac nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals and medical clinics to long-term care facilities. They collaborate with cardiologists and other members of the healthcare team, treating patients with coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, heart arrhythmia, heart valve disease, and other problems. They may also assist surgeons with heart surgery. Here are some other key duties of a cardiac nurse:

  • Administer medications to patients
  • Administer IV drips
  • Work with surgeons and physicians to provide post-surgery care
  • Observe patients’ heart activity, often with electrocardiograms
  • Administer medications and other treatments, like chest tubes
  • Assist with rehabilitation techniques to help a patient recover from cardiac illness or surgery
  • Provide education to patients and families so patients can maintain heart health
Start growing your specialized nursing career with Excelsior University’s BS in Nursing

What Skills Do You Need to Become a Cardiac Nurse?

Cardiac nurses must have knowledge about the human body but specifically about the human heart. They must have a variety of technical and transferrable skills. Here are a few of them:

  • Knowledge in patient care, acute care, advanced cardiac life support, catheterization laboratory, critical care nursing, pediatrics, cardiology, and other areas
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work in a team setting
  • Critical thinking ability
  • Good organization skills
  • Assertiveness
  • Time management skills
  • Good code of ethics
  • Compassion

How to Become a Cardiac Nurse

To become a cardiac nurse, candidates must be a registered nurse, and, according to NurseJournal, must have at least 3,000 hours of work experience in cardiovascular nursing and 30 hours of continuing education. Check out Excelsior University’s nursing programs to get started on your nursing education so you can become a cardiac nurse.

In addition, it is recommended that candidates receive certification in cardiac nursing from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, the American Board of Cardiovascular Medicine, or the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

What Are the Benefits of Being a Cardiac Nurse?

There are many benefits that come with becoming a cardiac nurse. For one, the field is always growing so you will always find a job. Many nurses build strong relationships with their patients, which makes the work fulfilling, and the potential to save lives in immediate danger can be rewarding. For example, resuscitating a patient from being in cardiac arrest and seeing them walk out of the hospital can be a gratifying experience.

According to the Salary.com, the average salary for a cardiovascular nurse in the United States is $73,240, and the salary range typically falls between $68,905 and $78,142.

If cardiovascular nursing sounds like the field you’d like to enter, talk to an admissions counselor today and start on your educational path.

How to Become a Copywriter

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

You are driving and see a compelling billboard. It is a vacation rental company telling you to book that next vacation. You think about it a little more on your drive home and through the night. The next day, you book your vacation with the company from the billboard. A successful copywriter is behind this campaign.

What Is a Copywriter?

A copywriter is a type of writer who develops content for various types of media to promote the sale of a good or service. Copywriters are a key part of a successful marketing team.

Copywriters write copy for:

  • Companies selling goods and services to other companies (B2B: business-to-business)
  • Companies selling their goods or services through a retail business (B2C: business-to-consumer)
  • Companies selling goods or services directly to consumers through a website (D2C: direct-to-consumer)

    • Originally, a copywriter’s writing appeared mainly in newspaper ads or in commercials for television or the radio. As the world evolved, so did copywriting. Today, copywriters continue to write for newspapers and commercials, but also for social media, magazines, online advertisements, billboards, paper ads, and more.

    Turn your way with words into a lasting career in marketing with a BS in Business.

    What Does a Copywriter Do?

    Copywriting job duties can vary from industry to industry, but at the end of the day the goal of a copywriter is to persuade consumers to buy a product or service the company they work for is selling. Copywriters are storytellers who work to create creative content about a particular product or service.

    The following responsibilities are included in most copywriter job postings:

  • Write copy for various media platforms and formats.
  • Research and create copy for different marketing campaigns.
  • Collaborate with members of the marketing team, including but not limited to, graphic designers, content strategists, social media specialists, and marketing managers.
  • Research and provide information on top industry competitors when it comes to website search trends, new products and services, consumer trends, and the industry at a whole.
  • Create a company’s brand voice.
  • Pitch your advertising plan to key stakeholders and clients.
  • Analyze campaign results and improvise when needed.

    • Copywriters are also responsible for constantly editing and rewriting copy. Key stakeholders and clients have many opinions, and it is the copywriter’s responsibility to rewrite and edit multiple drafts of copy until it is on target.

    Where Do Copywriters Work? Who Do They Work For?

    All companies who want to sell a product or service need copywriters to ensure the sale of their product or service. As a copywriter, you can work in any industry, including healthcare, education, technology, fashion, media, environmental science, tourism, fundraising, travel, and more. Really, any industry you can think of most likely has need for a copywriter.

    Copywriters tend to be employed by any of the following:

  • Freelance work: If you ever wanted to work for yourself, set your own hours, and work from the comfort of your own home, freelance copywriting might be the gig for you. Freelance copywriters work under contract or on a project basis. While this can be convenient and allow you to choose what type of projects you want to work on, the amount of work can vary, and as a result, so can your income. It is important to create a large client pool, and a backup plan to make sure you have a steady income.
  • In-house marketing teams: You work directly for a company’s marketing team, creating marketing strategies and writing copy for its marketing campaigns and advertisements. Unlike freelance copywriting, you work on campaigns related only to the business. As marketing grows and becomes a necessity, many companies create in-house marketing teams instead of outsourcing for this need.
  • Advertising or marketing agency: As a copywriter for an advertising or marketing agency, you work with multiple clients at one time, writing copy for all. Companies hire you to support their marketing initiatives.

    • What Skills Are Needed to Become a Copywriter?

    To be a copywriter, you must have excellent writing skills and be creative! You will often be working with other members of the marketing team to brainstorm new ways to inspire consumers to purchase the product or service.

    Check out the top skills recruiters are looking for in copywriters:

  • Creativity: You must be able to develop new strategies and ideas.
  • Persuasion: Copywriters need to be able to convince others to feel a certain way about a good or service.
  • Adaptability: You must be able to adapt and change your concepts to fit the goals of key stakeholders and clients.
  • Writing skills: Copywriters must write clearly and concisely to communicate effectively with their audience.

    • What Requirements and Education Are Needed to Become a Copywriter?

    Copywriters typically need a bachelor’s degree in writing, marketing, communications, business, or a related field. You should build a portfolio of recent work, whether that is blog posts, advertisements, short stories, etc. Recruiters tend to find these helpful in the interview process to see if your writing style and skills match the company. A bachelor’s degree in business from Excelsior University combined with work experience will help prepare you for a career as a copywriter.

    Career Spotlight: Compliance Manager

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    Job opportunities in compliance within all organizations are on the rise. Legal departments across the world are trying to work through new and constantly evolving government regulations. This is especially true in the cannabis industry. If you are detail-oriented, love research and data, and consider yourself a strong leader, then a compliance manager might be the right job for you!

    What Does a Compliance Manager Do?

    Compliance managers need to stay up to date with new laws and regulations to ensure that the organization they are working for is compliant. Job responsibilities and duties vary depending on the industry, however most positions include the following responsibilities:

  • Implement and manage an effective legal compliance program.
  • Advise management on compliance laws and regulations.
  • Develop and review company policies.
  • Audit company procedures, practices, and documents, and manage effective response plans to these discoveries.
  • Educate all employees on the rules and regulations.
  • Create new processes to ensure the company is compliant.

    • It is also the compliance manager’s responsibility to resolve any employee concerns about legal issues. Many compliance managers are also part of the legal or human resources team at the organization.

    The Importance of Compliance Managers in the Cannabis Industry

    The cannabis industry is new and evolving, therefore a compliance manager is necessary to ensure a successful and legal business. With the constant changes, it is important to have a dedicated person or team to manage all the legal aspects of the business. Some examples of what a compliance manager might be responsible for in the cannabis industry include:

  • Legal responsibilities on how to grow cannabis
  • Creating a tracking system that is compliant
  • Packaging supplies and materials, including information that must be on the label
  • Lab testing

    • These are only a couple of things that a compliance manager is responsible for, and can change depending on what state or county you are working in. Earning a graduate certificate in cannabis control will help you get started as a compliance manager in the cannabis industry.

    How to Become a Compliance Manager

    Compliance manager positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in law, finance, business management, or a related field. While education is important and necessary for this type of role, hiring managers also look for these common traits and qualifications from candidates:

  • Leadership experience. Compliance managers lead a team of analysts, as well as consultants and other specialists. It is imperative for compliance managers to show strong leadership skills, backed by proven experience highlighted on a resume.
  • Strong communication skills. As a compliance manager you work with many different individuals. The ability to explain legal jargon to people who may not be as experienced as you is important for this role, as well as for the leadership team. You are responsible for communicating information to employees in a clear, concise way that makes sense to everyone involved. This can be in written communications, as well as in public speaking
  • Demonstrate integrity. It is critical to have a strong moral compass and be able to make ethical decisions. You are responsible for directing analysts, compliance specialists, and other junior level staff members on how to make sound decisions.
  • Knowledge of laws and regulations. Just like any other job, you must be an expert in your field. A compliance manager’s field is rules, regulations, and laws within the industry. You must have a deep understanding of laws and regulations, and must be aware of updates.
  • Strong team player. As a compliance manager you may lead a team of your own, and work with a bigger team within the organization. A successful compliance manager is patient and works well with other members of the team. For instance, the ability to work with team members who do not have the knowledge of the laws and regulations is of the utmost importance.

    • Many compliance managers start off in an entry level role within the compliance office as an analyst, specialist, or coordinator. This experience, combined with your education, is a great starting point to get to a compliance manager position. While it is not a requirement for all candidates to obtain a graduate degree in business administration, public policy, or a related field, a degree can boost your knowledge and preparedness. To get started, check out Excelsior University’s bachelor’s in business degrees.

    Excelsior University Staff Donate Backpacks

    Posted on by Erin Coufal

    Albany, New York—Excelsior University supported two organizations with backpacks and back-to-school supplies this season. The organizations distributed the supplies to the students they serve at community events held recently. Excelsior knows that learning is a lifelong journey and is providing a backpack to young students to help them start this school year with the gear they need.

    “We are grateful for the opportunity to supply backpacks to the elementary, middle, and high school students of our partners at Syracuse Housing Authority as well as those supported through 518 SNUG,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “We believe in the potential of all students at all stages of life. Excelsior is dedicated to helping students of all ages get back to school.”

    Staff at Excelsior University donated backpacks throughout August and are proud to meet the needs of the students from these two organizations. The community engagement group of staff organizes the donation drive annually in hopes that the backpacks meet a useful need to help students starting the school year. The generous support of this initiative also shows that Excelsior believes in their potential.

    # # #

    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.

    KeyBank Donation Funds Scholarships for Excelsior Students of Syracuse Housing Authority

    Posted on by Erin Coufal

    Albany, New York—Excelsior University is excited to announce a generous donation from KeyBank that will provide Syracuse Housing Authority residents with access to scholarship funds for a degree.

    “Thank you to KeyBank for your generosity and support. Excelsior is committed to access to education for students who are historically underrepresented in higher education,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “These scholarship funds will provide greater access for residents of Syracuse Housing Authority.”

    Excelsior University partnered with Syracuse Housing Authority to offer residents and staff access to affordable higher education. The Degrees Open Doors Scholarship funded by KeyBank makes an Excelsior education even more affordable by funding full scholarships for housing authority residents.

    “Providing access to education, financial guidance and resources are important ways that KeyBank helps the communities we serve to thrive,” said Stephen Fournier, market president of KeyBank Central New York market. “We are proud to partner with the Syracuse Housing Authority and Excelsior University as they launch this innovative program to support students transitioning to college and their ability to complete their college education.”

    “One of the best ways to create opportunities is through continued education, which is why Syracuse Housing Authority is extremely excited to partner with KeyBank and Excelsior College,” said William Simmons, SHA executive director. “These grant funds and financial guidance will allow our residents to complete their educational goals and be a catalyst for financial growth and greater possibilities for themselves and their families.”

    The donation was celebrated by all three organizations on August 31 at the Opening Doors Community event in Wilson Park with residents of Syracuse Housing Authority. Residents attending learned about the opportunity to enroll at Excelsior University, children received a backpack for back-to-school, and pizza and BBQ was available for all.

    # # #

    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.

    Steven Lucas, BS in History, 2002

    Posted on by Mackenzie Wright

    Steven Lucas shares that he, “never thought I would ever earn a college degree. Excelsior University [then Excelsior College] provided me the opportunity to earn my bachelor’s degree while serving as an active duty Marine in 2002. This degree not only served as a stepping stone to lifelong learning, but [also] to professional opportunities of which I never would have dreamed possible.”

    Lucas retired from the military in 2003 and began teaching as a second career, while pursuing a Master of Education. In his career in education, he has also served as a vice principal, principal, and currently as a district superintendent.

    Lucas shared that he wrote this alumni note with the hope someone who is considering Excelsior University will be inspired take the leap into post-secondary or graduate education. “The non-traditional route of earning my degree was the perfect option and has served me well. I thank the professional staff at Excelsior University for getting me started on this path and all they do to make earning a degree a possibility for many like me.”

    Herman Estrada, MPA, 2021

    Posted on by Mackenzie Wright

    Herman Estrada earned a Master in Public Administration at Excelsior University (then Excelsior College) in 2021. He attributes two of his major achievements to Excelsior: “Excelsior College gave me the opportunity, whether it be attaining my bachelor’s or my current achievement—attaining my master’s.”

    Rosanne Raso, BS in Nursing, 1981

    Posted on by Mackenzie Wright

    Rosanne Raso’s career as a nurse leader has apexed in the past few years as a result of the following professional accomplishments: fellowships in the American Academy of Nursing and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, her doctorate (DNP) from Case Western Reserve University, multiple publications of her ongoing leadership science research, bringing her current organization to its initial Magnet designation for nursing excellence, and being editor in chief of Nursing Management journal.

    She attributes much of this to Excelsior: “None of this would be possible without my foundational bachelor’s in nursing from Excelsior (then the Regents External Degree Program—“online” was not invented yet).”