Online Physics Degrees

Physics is referred to as a “pure science.” That is, it is the study of the basic truths of the universe, how it works, and the laws which define objects, forces, and the relationships between them without regard to how that science might be used or “applied” by humanity. Thanks to computer technology, it is now possible to get your physics degree online, completing most of the required lab work through computer simulations that duplicate the precise conditions of a laboratory experiment. Most students begin with an undergraduate degree in physics and then specialize through advanced degrees.

Careers can be found in Oceanography, Climatology, Astronomy, Seismology and Biophysics, just to name a few. Students with solid backgrounds in physics can apply their skills to the development of new medicines, cultivation of plant species, design of structures that withstand hurricanes, highway and bridge design and communication fields such as fiberoptics and satellite photography. Nearly any scientific field that you would like to focus on can begin with a Bachelor’s degree in physics as physics is a major requirement in architecture, engineering and computer related programs.

Furthermore, the US Department of Labor has reported that Physics is excellent preparation for degrees that you would not usually associate with physics such as law or medicine. Each of the fields in which you would extend and apply your physics degree will have it’s own opportunities and salary ranges.

The Study of Physics

The study of physics requires numerous sequential courses, that is, courses that must be completed before the next course can be taken. Getting your degree through an online program can shorten the time needed to complete your degree because you do not have to wait for the “next semester” once you have completed a course and passed the final exam. With most online programs, you can start the next course immediately, saving both time and expense. While most Physics graduates are likely to pursue advanced degrees, jobs are available with just the Bachelor’s degree.

For example, you might find a job as a laboratory technician, meteorologist, computer programmer, salesperson for technical instruments, or contractor for the installation of acoustical or computer equipment. However, physicists in the United States—those with Masters or Doctoral degrees earn an average of $80,000 a year or more. Thus, it isn't hard to understand why most students go after the advanced degrees. Physics may be one of the more difficult degrees to complete through Online study because of the complex math and challenging research that often sends students for individual consultation with the professor.

However, most schools with online programs have anticipated that need and have qualified professors available for online “appointments,” forums, phone calls and other personal interaction when needed. Furthermore, since you can adjust your schedule according to your own needs, you will often find that interaction with peers is actually easier than it would be if you were in a traditional classroom environment. Although most students try to complete their studies in less time than the usual semester, it is also possible to extend your time, taking fewer courses at a time and taking longer to complete them. This is particularly helpful if you need to maintain a job while getting your education.

Online Technology Degrees

Consistent planning. Education. Fine-tuning. If you''re considering a career in technology or information technology (IT), your path to employment typically should have these three vital components. In an industry that morphs almost daily, staying on top of new technologies and understanding complex business principles can be critical to your professional development.

Career Options in Technology and IT

Just like constant flux of the technology landscape, technology and IT career tracks constantly evolve. According to Computerworld, technology and business have become so irrevocably connected that the best opportunities should be in hybrid positions that specialize in using technology to accelerate company growth and realize business objectives. That being said, professionals entering the market can benefit from augmenting their tech skills with business operations. Those that do may gain a competitive edge over other applicants. Some of the career tracks that show promise for the coming decade include:

• IT project manager
• IT consultant
• Senior software engineer, developer, programmer
• Computer networking system engineer
• Information technology specialist

IT Employment Outlook and Salary Potential

Information technology is one of the stronger industries based on opportunity, salary, and advancement. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information systems managers held about 264,000 jobs in 2006, with about one in four of those working in computer systems design and related services for service-providing industries. Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to increase by 16 percent through 2016. With respect to salary potential, earnings typically vary by specialty and level of responsibility. Other factors that can influence salary level include industry certifications and geographic area. In 2007, computer and information systems managers earned a median salary of $108,070.

Prospective Technology Degrees and Coursework

InformationWeek gives some meaningful advice on how best to begin a career in technology. Despite your urge to want to focus solely on the latest technological developments, your studies should include a healthy dose of exposure to clients and customers. IT is still primarily a service business, and those that can provide service along with expertise typically flourish as professionals. Common degrees that employers typically value include a bachelor''s degree in computer science, information technology, or programming. Master''s credentials are available in most major IT disciplines and are traditionally preferred for development or leadership roles. For example, an MBA can give a budding IT professional the business training that companies usually look for in applicants.

Online Technology Career Training Options

• TeamREES reports these top online career training certifications will be in high demand in the coming decade:
• Networking and support: A+, MCDST or CCNA certification
• Project management: CompTIA Project+, Project Management Institute''s (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) and Microsoft''s SharePoint 2007
• Security: Identifying physical and virtual threats to commercial and proprietary software.
• Virtualization: VMware and Microsoft, most notably.

Earning technology and IT degrees online can provide you with a rich technological component absent from common on-campus programs. The distance learning environment promotes self-sufficiency and problem-solving skills that employers typically value.

Online Learning Options :

• Online Degrees in Programming and Software Development
• Online degree programs in computer science and programming from accredited universities and colleges:
• Computer and Software Engineering    Online graduate programs in Computer Engineering
• Computer Programming    Undergraduate and graduate degrees in Computer Programming and System Design
• Computer Science    Graduate and undergraduate degrees in Applied Computer Science and Computer Science
• Online Degrees in Information Systems Operation and Management
• Online degree programs in information technology and information systems from accredited universities and colleges:

Online Health Degrees

Health sciences programs help prepare students for careers in the health care industry or for graduate studies in health-related fields. The development of health science programs has required figuring out what kind of undergraduate training a student should receive, especially since many health care jobs now need a graduate degree. As a result, the degree is often interdisciplinary and can go by other names, such as health science, biomedical sciences or physiology. One of the reasons health degrees are becoming more popular is the flexibility of career choices after college. Students can either choose a specialization or take classes that will give them a general background for health they can later use to pursue careers in medicine, pharmaceuticals, dentistry or public health.

Coursework In Health Sciences

Coursework includes classes in biology, mathematics and chemistry, along with more specialized courses with a focus on human anatomy, neuroscience, microbiology, physiology, gerontology, medical terminology, quantitative methods, nutrition, occupational health, statistics, science writing and bioethics. Health science majors do not usually take the advanced courses in botany and invertebrate biology because the focus is on human biology. Other classes focus on patient care, medical research and health promotion and education. The courses a health science student takes will ultimately depend on their concentration. For example, many programs have a track that a student follows for a career in something specific within the realm of health care, such as public health administration or physical therapy.

Earning a Health Degree Online

While earning a health degree online is not impossible, it is difficult because it requires an interactive learning experience in labs. Health administration degrees are more feasible and are available at a number of online educational institutions. Online degrees allow students the flexibility of studying on their own time and from any location with an Internet connection. Check with the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools to make sure the online programs are accredited. Also, look into community colleges that offer an associateís degree in two years that can be transferred to another school.

Bachelor Of Science In Health Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences is designed to prepare students who are interested in furthering careers in medicine, public health or biomedical research. Courses will include basic sciences along with molecular, cellular and developmental biology. Some universities offering undergraduate programs in health science include Stony Brook University, University of Colorado, University of California Santa Cruz, Ohio State University and Marquette University. This kind of program encompasses more specialties compared to other majors, since the field of health care is much broader. Many students will find schools that offer concentrations or tracks that segue into other aspects of health care, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, radiology, pharmacology, physiology and more.

Master Of Health Science

The Masterís in Health Science (MHS) degree is for students who want to advance a career in the field of health care, particularly as a senior health policy executive. These programs, which can last up to three years, allow students to work closely with doctors, nurses, surgeons and public settings like hospitals and clinics to learn more about health sciences and organization of a medical business. Coursework may include advanced levels of human anatomy, kinesiology, physiology, occupational biomechanics, pathophysiology and pharmacology.

Master In Health Administration Or Public Health

The Master in Health Administration (MHA) or Public Health is a graduate degree designed for students that want to advance their careers into a senior managerial position within a hospital, non-profit or health service organization. Study involves coursework in health sciences and applied experience in health care economics, health policy, management, organizational behavior, marketing, communications, human resources, operations, information systems and leadership. Some schools offer joint MHA/MBA degrees, while others have similar programs in public health.

Career Opportunities In Health

The health care industry is one of the fastest growing job markets in the country and therefore is one of the best businesses to find a job. Health degrees can lead to a number of career opportunities, including pharmacist, physical and occupational therapist, podiatrist and radiological and anesthesiology technician. Other employment opportunities for health science majors include personal trainer, rehabilitation specialist, physical education, sports medicine, fitness instructor, dietician, chiropractor, nutritionist, physiologist and medical technician.

Earning Potential For Health Careers

The earning potential for someone with a degree in health sciences depends on what kind of career he wants. Physical therapists can earn anywhere from $63,000 to $73,000, whereas an occupational therapist can make anywhere from $59,000 to $71,000. Optometrists can earn a salary of up to $118,000 while physiologists can make up to $48,000. Those who earn a Masters in Health Administration can expect a median salary of $73,900.

Online Economics Degrees

Economists research and analyze economics, or the way people choose to use their resources to produce goods and services. Economists typically work in diverse sectors, from finance to government, industry to academia. Their research may cover a variety of issues including:

• Business cycles
• Employment levels
• Energy costs
• Exchange rates
• Inflation
• Interest rates
• Taxes

Most people choose to specialize in a certain area of economics:

• Financial economists study changing interest rates
• Industrial economists study the economics of specific industries, looking at the number of competitors, monopolies, and market decisions that firms make
• International economists look at exchange rates, tariffs, and international markets
• Labor economists study the determination of wages along with the supply and demand for labor
• Macroeconomists look at historical trends in order to forecast the future in terms of unemployment, inflation, and other economic trends
• Microeconomists focus on supply and demand for individuals and firms
• Public finance economists look at how the government affects the economy, particularly in terms of tax cuts, budget deficits, and welfare policies

Degrees in Economics

A degree in economics can provide the knowledge and training necessary to succeed in a variety of related fields. Unlike finance degree programs, which focus primarily on monetary resources, economics degree programs traditionally address more diverse resources, such as labor, land, machinery, and raw materials. Graduate degrees narrow down the coursework into a specific area of economics, such as the specialties mentioned above. Bachelor''s degrees can open up opportunities in a few entry-level positions, such as research assistant, administrative, and sales positions in government, research organizations, or consulting firms. Those who complete a master''s degree in economics may qualify for research and administrative positions with more responsibility. Top economics positions often require a PhD.

Career training usually involves:

• Computer science
• Econometrics
• History of economic thought
• Macroeconomics
• Mathematics and statistics
• Microeconomics
• Sampling theory
• Statistics
• Survey design

Career Prospects in Economics

While no degree can guarantee a particular job or salary, job seekers with a background in economics are likely to have good opportunities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As of 2007, economists had a mean annual wage of $86,700. Of course wages vary per employer, degree held, and experience level. The federal government employs the most economists. Those with bachelor''s degrees averaged starting salaries of $35,752, those with master''s degrees averaged beginning salaries of $43,731, and those with PhDs averaged $52,912. Economists held around 15,000 jobs in 2006, according to the BLS, and it''s predicted to grow 7 percent by 2016. Management, scientific, and technical consulting services should most likely require the most economists and have the highest job growth rate. But many people with degrees in economics may end up having a job title other than economist, such as market analyst, financial analyst, public policy consultant, or purchasing manager. Those with specialized knowledge in a secondary area most likely should have the best career opportunities.

Online Project Management Degrees

As organizations face greater pressures to control costs, ensure quality and meet timelines, qualified project managers are in greater demand than ever. Project managers are highly sought-after by large corporations, entrepreneurial companies and government agencies to standardize processes, optimize teamwork and streamline the tasks necessary to complete a project in the most effective and efficient manner. Specialties include engineering, information technology, business and human resources.

Youll find project management Certificate, Bachelors, Masters and MBA programs that provide a solid understanding and working knowledge of the latest principles, tactics and tools being deployed this dynamic field. Students apply analytical, communication, problem-solving and leadership skills to the challenge of planning, managing and completing complex projects on time and on budget. Typical courses include topics in time management, risk analysis, and project development. Several programs are designed to help prepare students for the nationally-recognized Project Manager Professional (PMP) certifying examination granted by the Project Management Institute.

• Kaplan University Online
• University of Phoenix
• American InterContinental University Online
• New England College
• Capella University
• Boston University
• Ashford University
• DeVry
• Walden University Online
• Grand Canyon University
• Jones International University
• CTU Institute for Advanced Studies
• ITT Tech
• City University Online
• SJU Professional
• Colorado Technical University Online
• Villanova University
• University of Mary
• Malone University
• University of California, Irvine
• Columbia Southern University
• Lehigh University

Online Photography Degrees

For those crave autonomy, flexibility, and, above all, creativity, a career in photography may seem ideal. If you have an artistic eye, technical skills, and the ability to tell a story visually, you might be naturally drawn to photography. In these days of affordable digital cameras and editing equipment, formal career training may not always be necessary for you to get started. However, in this rapidly changing field in which business and marketing skills, as well as the ability to work in a multimedia environment, are all becoming increasingly important, photography degrees provide excellent career training that could give you an edge in this competitive field.

Photography Careers: Behind the Lens

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than half of those working in photography today are self employed--that''s a much higher proportion than in most other industries. That number is also expected to grow, as most media outlets are scaling back their employment of salaried photographers, and instead are hiring freelancers to provide still photography and video. Photojournalism, also called news photography, is just one way in which photographers may earn a living. Many work as portrait photographers, using studio tools to craft the ideal shot. Some photographers capture special events, such as weddings, religious ceremonies, or graduation photos.

Fine art photographers create artwork with their photography and sell their pieces. Still other photographers work in various scientific or commercial industries, recording data for analysis. According to the National Press Photographers Association, a professional organization for photojournalists, the photography profession is changing rapidly, which is why formal career training may be a practical way to begin. As print media outlets gradually decline in circulation, most are moving their efforts to the Internet, which requires a much more rapid updating process and a variety of media including streaming video. Photojournalism applicants will be required to have a larger set of skills and will need to be able to tell a story visually in multiple ways, with a more rapid production time.

The Value of Photography Degrees

Because photography is an ever-evolving field that requires practitioners to constantly update their skills and equipment, formal degrees may be advantageous. Photography courses progressively challenge students, not only artistically by also technically. Meanwhile, exposure to instructors and peers in the field provides valuable insights and important connections. If self-employment interests you, online degrees might just provide the right mix of formal career training and autonomy. You can explore ideas while constantly improving your skills at a pace that makes you comfortable.

In addition to formal photography career training, which covers aspects of visual design and technical skills, courses in business and marketing can be very useful. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that photography jobs will grow by 10 percent through 2016--about as fast as average. Median annual earnings for salaried photographers in 2006 were $26,170. More than financial compensation, however, photography careers provide a creative outlet and freedom that may be invaluable.

Online Pharmacy Degrees

Filling prescriptions is only one job that pharmacists perform each day. Taking inventory, making sure people are taking the right medications, talking with health insurance companies and doctor’s offices, and suggesting alternative medications are other tasks that pharmacists complete during the day. In order to become a pharmacist, students will have to complete a degree program which includes taking classes in computer database management, medications and their uses, psychology, history of pharmaceutical drugs, and courses in dispensing medications.

These courses will prepare students for employment in drug stores, hospital dispensaries, and government agencies. Because of the abuse of medications that are available in doctors and dentists offices over the past few years, the food and drug administration conducts inspections of medicine storage areas from time to time. Making sure that people are taking the right medication is a huge responsibility.

There are people who will try to obtain medication under false pretenses and it is up to the pharmacists to discover the truth about rescriptions by verifying them with doctors and other health officials. Pharmacists will also catch mistakes before they lead to serious medical emergencies by calling doctors offices to verify that patients can take certain medications even if they have had prior allergic reactions or if they can take it along with other medications they may be taking.

Pharmacists have to keep detailed records of patient’s medications and call doctors whenever they suspect something is wrong. Students who want to go into this career should have an attention to detail, enjoy working with the public, and have extensive knowledge of medications. They may have to answer questions, find alternative medications that are less expensive, and be able to catch mistakes before they happen. This is a fast paced field, but the knowledge of how to use computer databases will make the job easier and will help save more lives in case mistakes have been made.