Physical Activity Surveillance in the United States for Work and Commuting: Understanding the Impact on Population Health and Well-being

Posted on by Anna Zendell

Whitsel, L. P., Huneycutt, F., Anderson, D. R., Beck, A. M., Bryant, C., Bucklin, R. S., Carson, R. L., Escaron, A. L., Hopkins, J. M., Imboden, M. T., McDonough, C., Pronk, N. P., Wojcik, J. R., Zendell, A., & Ablah, E. (2021). Physical Activity Surveillance in the United States for Work and Commuting: Understanding the Impact on Population Health and Well-being. Journal of occupational and environmental medicine, 63(12), 1037–1051.

The article summarizes and describes the current US surveillance systems that assess physical activity for work and commuting. This article represents the initial work in developing best practices and resources for work settings of all sizes.

View journal article here

Teaching Matters: Simulations and Games

Posted on by Mary Berkery, PhD

Dr. Mary Berkery, department chair, Liberal Arts and Degree Completion, was featured on this episode of the NPR Teaching Matters podcast hosted by Dr. Scott Titsworth, Dean of the Scripps College of Communication at Ohio University. Berkery discussed the use of games and simulations in teaching historical thinking skills in HIS350: World War I. The description of the episode also includes links to play demos of all 3 games. Excelsior’s Dr. Anna Zendell was interviewed for part two of the series.

Listen to the podcast here (February 2, 2022)

Teaching Matters: Food Games

Posted on by Anna Zendell

In the second part of this two-part podcast interview on NPR’s Teaching Matters, Dr. Anna Zendell, teaching faculty for Excelsior University’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences, discussed a game-based learning initiative integrating games into two courses – one in history and one in a nutrition course. Excelsior faculty created these games to address specific challenges in the courses and to promote empathy. Zendell and Excelsior Liberal Arts and Degree Completion department chair Dr. Mary Berkery each covered different facets of the evidence-base around game-based learning and simulations and talked about best practices for adult learners. Berkery was interviewed for part one of the series.

Listen to the podcast here (February 14, 2022)

The Guide to COIL Virtual Exchange: Implementing, Growing, and Sustaining Collaborative Online International Learning

Posted on by Carrie Prior

Guth, S., & Rubin, J. (Eds.). (2022).  The Guide to COIL Virtual Exchange: Implementing, Growing, and Sustaining Collaborative Online International Learning.  New York:  Routledge.

Carrie Prior, associate dean, School of Graduate Studies at Excelsior University, published chapter 20 in this work and played a role as contributing editor. This is the authoritative guide to implementing COIL Virtual Exchange, conceived, and co-edited by one of the originators of this innovative approach to internationalization, Jon Rubin. COIL, the acronym for Collaborative Online International Learning, is a central modality of what has come to be known as virtual exchange. Since its first iteration in 2002, it has gradually established itself as a mature pedagogy that is being increasingly implemented across the world and is validated by a growing body of research.

Purchase book here

Ever Upward: Building an Ecosystem to Support and Validate Lifelong Learning

Posted on by Scott Dolan

Dolan, S., Paludi, M., Sciabarrasi, L., Zendell, A. L., & Schmidt, G. (2022). Ever Upward: Building an Ecosystem to Support and Validate Lifelong Learning. In A. Brower, & R. Specht-Boardman (Ed.), New Models of Higher Education: Unbundled, Rebundled, Customized, and DIY (pp. 409-428). IGI Global. https://doi.org/10.4018/978-1-6684-3809-1.ch020

In a world where skilling, upskilling, reskilling, and career shifting are becoming the norm, and where lifelong learning is a requirement, models of higher education designed to best support the needs of learners and the workforce remain relatively limited. In the chapter, the authors discuss strategies used by Excelsior University’s School of Graduate Studies to respond with agility to the needs of students and employers, including structures and processes used to better connect with employers and their needs. They highlight the development of high-quality learning outcomes, the creation of industry-aligned curricular and co-curricular learning experiences, and the development of stackable credentials to demonstrate how they provide students with flexible on-and-off ramps to learning and skill development.

View chapter here

Intelligent.com honors Excelsior University with 15 top awards

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y. – Excelsior University is pleased to have received 15 rankings among the best institutions for 2024 from Intelligent.com, a trusted resource for program rankings and higher education planning.

Intelligent.com’s institutional rankings are deemed the benchmark of academic evaluations for online and hybrid programs. An exclusive methodology is used to rank each institution on a scale from zero to 100 across six categories. Evaluations are based on quantitative measures such as academic quality, graduation rate, cost and ROI, and student resources. Intelligent.com’s top picks are highly-regarded, affordable, and offer the tools and resources students need to successfully graduate and excel in their fields.

“Excelsior University is proud to be recognized among numerous categories in this year’s Intelligent.com awards,” said David Schejbal, president, Excelsior University. “These rankings demonstrate the breadth and depth of high-quality educational opportunities available to students at Excelsior University, and stand as a testament to the excellent work of faculty and staff across our institution.”

Excelsior University has been recognized among the rankings for the following awards:

Recent studies cited by Intelligent.com show that bachelor’s degree holders earn 75% more than those with just a high school diploma. Moreover, the trajectory of earnings ascends with the level of educational attainment, showcasing a progressively larger payoff. The numbers are compelling: completing college allows individuals to earn a median lifetime income of $2.8 million, a significant leap from the $1.6 million median for those limited to a high school diploma.

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Media Contact Excelsior University: 
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

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.

ABOUT INTELLIGENT.COM
Intelligent.com provides unbiased research to help students make informed decisions about higher education programs. The website offers curated guides that include the best degree programs and information about financial aid, internships, and even study strategies. Intelligent.com is a trusted source among students and prospective students with comprehensive, user-friendly guides and hundreds of program rankings. To learn more, please visit www.intelligent.com.

Excelsior University ranked among Military Times 2023 Best for Vets Colleges

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Arlington, VA  – Today Excelsior University announced its recognition in Military Times’ 2023 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings. Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges is the largest and most comprehensive annual ranking of schools for military service members and veterans.

Each year, Military Times sends a survey to colleges and universities across the nation asking about their programs for veterans. The survey results are then analyzed, along with public data about colleges and universities obtained from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs and turned into an official ranking. Schools were asked to complete the survey earlier this year and the responses were then analyzed by the Military Times data team, producing the highly anticipated, respected, and unbiased annual ranking.

“Excelsior University is proud to be recognized once again as a Military Times Best for Vets College. For more than 50 years, Excelsior has remained committed to preparing veterans for the next phases of their careers through accessible, innovative education,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “With flexible degree programs that meet vets where they are, Excelsior is honored to count tens of thousands of military graduates among our alumni.”

For 10 years, Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges has continued to serve and support the military community through its trusted ranking and reporting on the top schools for veterans. “Our comprehensive survey and thoughtful methodology make our rankings best in class,” said Mike Gruss, editor-in-chief at Sightline Media Group, parent company of Military Times.

The rankings have become a go-to resource for schools to spread the word about their veteran programs and help veterans make important decisions about their educational planning and how to use the education benefits they earned through military service.

For more information about Excelsior University’s student veteran programs, visit Excelsior University’s website at www.excelsior.edu/military-and-veterans.

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Media Contact Excelsior University:
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

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.

What Does a Compensation Manager Do?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Compensation managers work in nearly every industry, making sure employees are paid correctly and appropriately. Since they spend a lot of time working with numbers, it’s important these human resource professionals are good at math and basic computer skills. They should also understand budgets and business finances.

If you have an interest in finances and human resources, a career as a compensation manager might be for you. Read more of this article to find out if it aligns with your career goals.

What Is a Compensation Manager?

Compensation managers develop a company’s payment system and ensure all employees are well compensated.

Hone your skills as a compensation manager with a master's in human resource management from Excelsior University.

What Does a Compensation Manager Do?

Compensation managers are the main employees who monitor a company’s budget. They monitor market conditions, government regulations, and cultural statistics to make sure an organization’s pay rate is current, appropriate, and competitive. They have a variety of duties, from analyzing data about wages and salaries to evaluating and adjusting pay structures. Some compensation managers also help develop and monitor a company’s benefits.

The role of a compensation manager ranges from business to business, but for the most part, all compensation managers are responsible for the following duties:

  • Develop a budget and keep within that budget
  • Develop an organization’s pay scale and structure
  • Oversee the distribution of pay to employees
  • Develop a benefits packages including retirement plans and health insurance
  • Evaluate cost-of-living adjustments
  • Ensure the company’s pay scale complies with state and federal laws and regulations
  • Propose fair and competitive compensation for positions
  • Monitor wage rates to develop or modify compensation plans
  • Prepare annual financial statements and summaries
  • Assist managers in answering questions from employees
  • Oversee compensation and payroll support team

How to Become a Compensation Manager

Compensation managers usually have a bachelor’s degree in human resources, finance, business, or a related field. A master’s degree is usually not required for entry-level positions, but earning one can help you rise above your competitors. Earning certification is also a good idea if you want to showcase your knowledge and set yourself apart on your resume. WorldatWork offers the Certified Compensation Professional for U.S.-based professionals and the Global Remuneration Professional. The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans also offers the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist certification.

What Degree Do You Need to Become a Compensation Manager?

As mentioned, a bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions as a compensation manager. Many people go on to earn master’s degree, though.

Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Business program is designed for working adults. Gain skills you can use on the job in areas including accounting, business strategy, communication, computer skills, economics, business ethics, finance, global business, leadership, management, marketing, data analysis, and teamwork and cultural diversity. The bachelor’s in business curriculum gives you a broad foundation in liberal arts and sciences and the knowledge you need to create effective business strategies and achieve measurable results for your employer.

Excelsior’s Master of Science in Human Resource Management with an Emphasis in Diversity and Technology program gives you specialized knowledge to lead organizations through complex challenges associated with all functions of human resources, including recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisals, health and safety, labor relations, and communications, especially with a distributed workforce. Either is a good choice if you’d like to enter the world of compensation management.

How Much Do Compensation Managers Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for compensation managers was $127,530 as of May 2021 and the occupation was projected to grow 2 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is slower than average for all other occupations. Despite this limited growth rate, about 1,200 openings are expected to occur each year, on average, over the next decade.

If becoming a compensation manager sounds like something you’d like to pursue, consider starting on your degree today!

What Is a Machine Operator?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

You can find machines running in factories of all different kinds of industries. But who makes sure these machines stay running properly? These professionals are known as machine operators.

If you like working with your hands and learning how things are made, a career as a machine operator might be right for you. Read on to learn how to break into this field.

What Is a Machine Operator?

Machine operators are the professionals who load and operate machines, configure machine equipment, maintain the machines, and optimize the machinery so it can work to its full capability. They can work in a variety of industries such as the automotive, food, solar, medical, or other industries. You can often find them in warehouses, factories, workshops, shipyards, or construction sites, operating forklifts, cranes, or other heavy machinery.

What Does a Machine Operator Do?

A machine operator’s duties vary depending on what industry they work in, but they can usually be found doing the following:

  • Calibrating machinery
  • Performing routine inspections of equipment
  • Using machinery to complete tasks
  • Loading or unloading materials
  • Ensuring machines are regularly cleaned
  • Monitoring and controlling machine performance
  • Conducting tests of machines
  • Inspecting machinery
  • Troubleshooting equipment issues
  • Documenting product information
  • Keeping an updated database on all machines
  • Reading and interpreting blueprints and engineering specifications
  • Maintaining a log of the activity
  • Submitting performance reports
Propel your career forward with an Associate in Applied Science in Technical Studies from Excelsior University.

What Skills Do You Need for a Career as a Machine Operator?

To be a successful machine operator, you should possess the following skills:

  • Attention to detail
  • Interpersonal communication
  • Physical strength
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Computer literacy
  • Ability to use hand tools
  • Physical stamina
  • Time management skills

How to Become a Machine Operator

Are you interested in becoming a machine operator? That’s great! The first thing you need to do is earn at least a high school diploma. Most employers are fine with this level of education, but you can also choose to continue your education by earning an associate degree or professional certificate. It’s also important you gain some familiarity using hand tools, so you can show potential employers you are comfortable using basic tools like hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and other items common to machinery settings.

Completing an internship or apprenticeship may also be a good idea. Learning hands-on from someone already in the field can help you learn how to read blueprints, operate heavy equipment, and learn the innerworkings of a factory setting. You may also wish to pursue certain certifications to further demonstrate your industry-specific skills and knowledge.

Degree Requirements to Become a Machine Operator

As mentioned, usually to be a machine operator, you only need a high school diploma or GED. However, if you wish to pursue higher education, an associate degree in a technical or machine-related area would be beneficial.

Excelsior University’s Associate in Applied Science in Technical Studies program focuses on preparing students to be employed as technicians in technology-related industries such as nuclear, energy, computer, electronics, and electrical. The program’s four technical concentrations provide you with a broad professional and technical foundation in the various functional components of technology. This degree is an appropriate choice if you want to become a machine operator in the technology industry.

Machine Operator Certifications

While not required, certifications can make you stand out to potential employers. Some specific certifications for machine operators include the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council Certified Production Technician, Manufacturing Skills Institute Manufacturing Technician Level 1, the MSI Manufacturing Specialist, and the Lean Certification.

Is Cyber Security a Good Career?

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Cyber security is a great career! For the right person, it offers security, growth potential, challenge, and the chance to make a meaningful impact. Read on for an in-depth guide to the cyber security industry and what you need to do to start building your resume.

A Look at the Cyber Security Industry

As technology continues evolve so does the potential for cyber attacks, and companies are working hard to build strong teams ready to protect their valuable data. This rapid expansion is far outstripping the supply of skilled workers, meaning that cyber security jobs are plentiful and salaries are high.

It’s not just in-house cyber security departments that are seeing growth. Major players in the software space and other technology providers are launching their own cyber security solutions specialized to service everything from e-commerce and cloud platforms to the internet of things and AI. According to fortunebusinessinsights.com, the manufacturing, banking, financial services, insurance, and health care industries are the main drivers of this growth both in the United States and worldwide.

Prepare for your next big career move with Excelsior’s BS in Cybersecurity

Benefits of a Cyber Security Career

In case a booming job market and high salaries haven’t convinced you the start your cyber security career, here are three more benefits of working in this dynamic industry.

  • You’ll never be bored. Technology always changes and so will the threats you’ll face as a cyber security expert. For those who thrive on challenges and problem solving, this means you’ll always have the opportunity to learn and grow, and that no day will look the same.
  • You have options. Depending on your interests and talents, there are many ways to build your career in cyber security. You can choose from careers as diverse as penetration tester, cybercrime investigator, or compliance analyst, and you can work in both public and private sector industries, or even as an independent consultant.
  • You can feel like a superhero. What could be more exciting that catching criminals, solving crimes, and protecting the public, all from the comfort of your desk chair? Cyber security professionals really are the hidden defenses that keep valuable data from falling into the wrong hands. Who wouldn’t want to be a secret superhero?

Breaking into the Cyber Security Field

A significant cyber security skills gap has led to millions of unfilled jobs, and employers are struggling to hire the talent they need. However, despite the increased demand, you shouldn’t expect to be able to just walk into a cyber security job. Even entry-level cyber security positions require a certain level of experience and education.

Cyber security is an important part of an organization’s information technology infrastructure, especially for companies that handle sensitive personal, medical, financial, or governmental data. While dedication, talent, and a willingness to learn go a long way when you’re starting your career, most companies won’t hire someone for one of these crucial positions without some cyber-specific training. To get your start in the industry, you’ll need to prove to employers that you have at least a solid base of cyber security education and skills.

Gain Experience

In the cyber security field, having the right experience is crucial. For newcomers, however, it often seems difficult to get job experience without having some experience already, leaving you feeling stuck. Don’t be afraid to start small. It’s common for cyber security professionals to begin their careers in entry-level IT jobs and then work their way up as they increase their expertise. To start building your comfort with terminology, concepts, and basic skills, look no further than the internet. There are plenty of free or low-cost online bootcamps and learning materials to get you started.

If you work in an organization large enough to have an in-house cyber security team, you already have a built-in connection to the field! Introduce yourself, and if you’re able, ask to shadow them for a day. Knowing working cyber professionals who are familiar with your strengths can give you a leg up when you start to enter the workforce in earnest.

Educate Yourself

When you’re ready to commit to becoming a cyber security professional, there’s no better step you can take than earning your bachelor’s degree. Earning your degree is a great way to take advantage of professional guidance and hands-on experience in a supportive academic setting and to earn that all-important academic credential and prepare for industry certifications as your skills advance.

Excelsior’s BS in Cyber Security aligns with the academic requirements for cyber security set by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS.) As a Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), the program supports the belief of the NSA that cyber security should be integrated in all aspects of a person’s career. Plus, the program is entirely online so you can keep working full-time.

Inspired to start your cyber security career and join the ranks of today’s most in-demand technology professionals? Learn more about the BS in Cyber Security program, or any of Excelsior’s other technology degrees on our technology degree page.

Excelsior University’s Center for Social Justice celebrates its first anniversary 

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

 ALBANY, N.Y.  — The Center for Social Justice (CSJ) at Excelsior University will commemorate its first anniversary this month. Officially launched on Nov. 16, 2022, CSJ continues to expand its mission as a community and institutional hub of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) spaces, opportunities, and resources.  

Through extensive programming and partnerships, the Center provides a platform for multi-perspective dialogue that informs Excelsior’s decision-making processes. CSJ also works to increase access to higher education for historically underrepresented learners and supports the intercultural development of staff, faculty, students, and community members.

“In its first year, the Center for Social Justice advanced Excelsior’s goals of promoting inclusivity, celebrating and leveraging our diversity, and pursuing positive social impact within and beyond the University,” said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, founding director of the Center for Social Justice and chief diversity officer. “As we look to the future, we are excited to expand our partnerships with other organizations and further develop CSJ as an important resource to the greater community. We invite all to join us on this journey, participate in these conversations, and grow with CSJ and Excelsior University.” 

CSJ has implemented multiple priority programs in its inaugural year, including:  

  • Enhancing learning opportunities and access to degree programs for CSJ’s partners.  
  • Implementing ongoing dialogue across the Excelsior organization through inclusive tours, workshops, and conversations. 
  • Facilitating “rope teams” where students and community members can feel represented, find support, share their stories and voices, and access connections, opportunities and resources based on what matters to them.  
  • Sharing intercultural development content, training and resources with Excelsior’s partners and community organizations. 
  • Starting to integrate JEDI strategies across Excelsior’s curriculum and instruction. 
  • Contributing to Excelsior’s recruitment and retention of a diverse workforce. 

CSJ will present several events throughout its anniversary month, beginning with First-Generation Pursuing Purpose, a remote keynote speech by motivational speaker, mentor, musician, and educator Chadijah Williams offered in celebration of First Generation Day. As part of her mission to guide and empower the next generation of educators and students, Williams’ speech will help attendees identify and live their purpose both inside and outside the classroom.

CSJ’s anniversary month continues with LGBTQIA+ Ally Training sessions on Nov. 7 and 15 presented in partnership with In Our Own Voices, a national nonprofit organization working to ensure the physical, mental, spiritual, political, cultural, and economic survival and growth of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people of color communities. Allyship training aims to prepare attendees to support, collaborate with, and advocate for people from the LGBTQIA+ community.  

The month’s events conclude with a keynote address by Jessica Lopez on Nov. 30 in recognition of International Day of People with Disabilities. Lopez is an advocate and champion of inclusive and accessible education and workforces. Drawing on her lived experience as a woman born without hands and feet, Jessica works to interrupt narratives about people with disabilities to make the world more equitable.  

“The Center for Social Justice’s commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion is intrinsic to our values at Excelsior University, and I’m proud of the accomplishments of our CSJ team over the past year,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “With CSJ leading the way, Excelsior continues to evolve as an institution that embraces and elevates the diverse voices that make up our University, partners, and neighbors.”

For more information, visit the CSJ page on the Excelsior University website or follow on Instagram @ExcelsiorCSJ.  

View b-roll video from the Center for Social Justice at Excelsior University’s first year here.

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Media Contact Excelsior University: 
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

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.