What Can You Do with a Technology Management Degree?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Technology management, or the management of technology (MOT), is a component of enterprise resource management (ERM) that involves integrating technology to align with business goals. ERM refers to efficiently managing an organization鈥檚 resources. MOT involves managing engineering, research and development, information systems, and the commercialization of innovations. Pursuing a degree in technology management can help you thrive where technology meets business, making your mark in today鈥檚 tech-driven world.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Technology Management Degree?

If you want to pursue a technology management degree, you might wonder how long it鈥檒l take to reach your goal. Most programs take two to four years to complete, but this depends on what kind of program you enter and whether you鈥檙e a part-time or full-time student. For full-time students, some associate degree programs can be completed in as little as two years, bachelor鈥檚 programs can be completed in four years, and master鈥檚 programs can be completed in 15 months.

Online programs can help you reach your goals in 18 months to two years if you prefer to take the virtual route.

Make your mark in the tech world with a technology management degree from 杏吧原创.

What Will You Learn in a Technology Management Program?

In a technology management degree program, in IT infrastructure, emerging technologies, project management, and strategic planning. These programs equip you with the skills needed for the tech-driven business world, emphasizing innovation, data-driven decision-making, cybersecurity, and technology governance. You鈥檒l also develop research, development, and organizational leadership skills, preparing you for various roles in the field. There are several concentrations you can choose from when you pursue this degree. Here are a few of them:

Electrical Technology

This concentration covers electrical components鈥� design, assembly, testing, maintenance, and enhancement while balancing management and leadership strategies to address technological challenges. Students study power systems, electronics, and energy management; explore emerging technologies like renewable energy systems, smart grids, and applications; and manage electrical projects with attention to reliability, safety, and risk.

Information Technology

In an information technology program, students are prepared to design, assemble, test, and maintain computer circuitry and hardware, analyze and solve IT challenges, and apply standard IT practices to develop computer-based applications for business or military purposes. Students also learn to integrate IT strategies with business goals, address ethical and regulatory considerations, and develop leadership skills.

Nuclear Technology

A Nuclear Technology concentration combines nuclear science with strategic management to tackle energy, health care, defense, and industry challenges. Students learn to design, operate, and maintain nuclear processes, including radiation shielding, detection, and power systems, while covering safety, compliance, and equipment testing. The program explores medical, industrial, and energy applications of nuclear technology, advancements in materials and waste management, and emerging trends like .

Renewable Energy Technology

In this concentration, students study and strategic management to address global energy challenges. Students gain expertise in solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal systems while exploring the political, economic, and cultural factors shaping the industry. Students also learn about energy storage, distribution, and project management, which prepares them to lead large-scale renewable energy projects and drive sustainable energy solutions.

What Are Some Jobs You Can Get with This Degree?

With a technology management degree, you鈥檒l have numerous career opportunities to explore, with myriad settings in which you could apply your hardware and software knowledge. Let鈥檚 explore a few jobs you can land with this versatile degree.

Supply Chain Analyst

A supply chain analyst manages, analyzes, and improves a company鈥檚 supply chain by using data to enhance production, transportation, and inventory processes. They analyze supply chain data, conduct inventory assessments, coordinate with staff, and maintain vendor relationships. They also collaborate with other departments, monitor route schedules, and seek out opportunities to optimize supply chain operations.

Electrical Equipment Operator

These professionals manage construction and maintenance machinery to dig, pave, compact, and piledrive. They handle maintenance issues, transport equipment, and materials, and perform manual labor like digging and hauling. They work on construction sites and are usually licensed and trained.

Network Manager

Network managers design, implement, maintain, and secure computer networks, including , , and cloud-based systems. These professionals plan network infrastructure, monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure security by enacting protocols to prevent unauthorized access. They also provide technical support, manage backups and recovery plans, optimize performance, and predict network needs for upgrades.

Information Technician

IT technicians install, maintain, and troubleshoot an organization鈥檚 technology systems, including hardware, software, networks, and devices. They resolve technical issues, manage network access, perform system backups, and provide user training. Information technicians need a strong understanding of computer systems, hardware, and networking, as well as problem-solving and communication skills.

Get your Technology Management Degree at 杏吧原创

If you want to enter the world where technology meets business, consider pursuing a technology management degree with 杏吧原创. The Bachelor of Professional Studies in Technology Management emphasizes the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values required for students to meet the demands of today鈥檚 workforce.

Contact an admissions counselor to get started on your path today.

Career Spotlight: Nurse Case Manager

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Case management in health care involves assessing, planning, coordinating, and monitoring services to meet an individual鈥檚 health and wellness needs. The goal is to ensure appropriate patient advocacy. Nurse case managers assess needs, develop plans of care, schedule appointments, and provide effective collaboration among health care professionals, providers, and patients. By educating patients and families and streamlining care, nurse case managers help individuals achieve their wellness goals efficiently.

For registered nurses seeking to apply their expertise outside the examination room, this career offers an opportunity to improve patient outcomes through coordination and advocacy.

What Does a Nurse Case Manager Do?

Nurse case managers evaluate patient medical histories, assess health needs, and identify existing support networks. They conduct interviews with clients, to patients, families, and caregivers, and they act as liaisons between patients, health care providers, and insurers. Case managers also educate patients and their families on health-related matters. Additionally, they maintain documents, review test results with physicians, and support health care aides.

Pursue a career in nurse case management with a bachelor鈥檚 in nursing from 杏吧原创.

What Skills Do You Need in Case Management?

Are you interested in becoming a nurse case manager? To be successful in this field, you must possess specific . Among these are:

  • These types of nurses need to understand patient needs to best advocate for them in case management.
  • Communication skills. These nurses need to be able to use written and verbal communication to coordinate patient services and work with health care providers, clients, and insurers.
  • Problem-solving skills. Case managers sometimes need to be good critical thinkers to devise the best course of action for patients.
  • Organizational skills. Nurse case managers need to manage their time effectively and coordinate treatment plans smoothly to best fulfill their job duties.

How to Become a Nurse Case Manager

To become a nurse case manager, you must become a registered nurse. This involves earning your associate degree in nursing or a bachelor鈥檚 degree in nursing and passing the NCLEX-RN examination.

It鈥檚 also a good idea to become certified in case management. The and the are two options that would benefit you in pursuing your career in case management and patient advocacy.

Career Spotlight: Neonatal Nurse

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Nurses are like heroes of the medical world, constantly offering compassion and expert care to patients in times of need. A nurse鈥檚 work is demanding and challenging, and one area that can be as rewarding as it is demanding is neonatal care. Neonatal nurses tend to the tiniest patients: the newborns who arrive too soon, too small, or with critical conditions. Let鈥檚 explore what makes this nursing field so unique.

What Does a Neonatal Nurse Do?

Neonatal nurses specialize in newborn care. It鈥檚 important to note that some neonatal nurses care for healthy infants in well-baby units, while others, known as NICU nurses, who work in the neonatal intensive care unit, care for infants with medical problems. . Let鈥檚 break them down:

  1. Level I Well-Baby Unit: This unit is a nursery in a hospital where newborns at 35鈥�37 weeks鈥� gestation receive routine care immediately after birth. Infants born at less than 35 weeks鈥� gestation are cared for until they can be transferred to a different location. Pediatricians, family physicians, and nurse practitioners usually work in these units.
  2. Level II NICU: Neonatologists, neonatal nurses, and Level I health care providers work on Level II units to care for moderately ill infants born at 32 weeks鈥� gestation or older who need close monitoring of vital signs and weight and administration of IV fluids and medications.
  3. Level III NICU: Level III units provide sustained life support and comprehensive care for infants born at gestational ages and weights with critical illnesses. Pediatric practitioners, neonatologists, nurse practitioners, neonatal nurses, pediatric surgeons, pediatric anesthesiologists, and other providers with specialties work in this unit.
  4. Level IV NICU:聽This regional NICU unit is the highest level of neonatal care and has the capacities of all other units as well as the capabilities to care for newborns needing major surgery or procedures for congenital heart defects and cardiopulmonary failure. These units can also provide .
Make a difference in a newborn鈥檚 life with a nursing degree from 杏吧原创.

What Skills Do Nurses Need in This Specialty?

Nurses in this critical specialty to care for such small and delicate patients and their families. Some of these traits include:

  • Ability to provide family support
  • Compassion
  • Critical thinking
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Ability to teach and provide knowledge
  • Empathy and the ability to nurture
  • Effective communication skills

How Much Do These Nurses Make?

According to the , as of 2023, registered nurses made a median annual salary of $86,070, and the profession is expected to grow 6% from 2023-2033. For RNs who go on to become neonatal nurse practitioners, as of October 2024, those nurses commanded a median annual advertised salary of $144,128, according to . That means you have a chance for significant financial growth if you make a career of this nursing specialty.

Do All Neonatal Nurses Work in the NICU?

. Neonatal nurses work with newborns; some are responsible for healthy infants, whereas others care for infants with medical complications. The specific nurses who care for infants who need critical care are the ones who work in the NICU.

What Is It Like to Work in the NICU?

Working in the NICU is a fast-paced environment where every moment matters, requiring nurses to manage critical equipment and monitor subtle changes in the most fragile patients. Every detail, from adjusting oxygen levels to offering , plays a vital role in a baby鈥檚 healing journey. These nurses also serve as a lifeline for families, providing education, comfort, and emotional support. Nurses collaborate with specialists and continuously learn to adapt to new technologies to give each baby the best chance at life.

Nurses in this specialty find deep purpose in their work, knowing they play a pivotal role in protecting and nurturing vulnerable lives. If working in newborn care is your calling, consider earning your bachelor鈥檚 degree in nursing and starting on your career path to a rewarding career as a neonatal nurse.

How to Capitalize on Cannabis Control with an MBA

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

The past decade of slow and steady cannabis legalization across the United States has turned what was once considered the Wild West into an established industry primed for skilled leadership. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) can help you capitalize on this growing market by developing the skills and entrepreneurial spirit needed to navigate the complicated world of cannabis control or even start your own cannabis business.

How Can an MBA Prepare You for a Career in Cannabis Control?

A business degree is a valuable asset in the cannabis business, particularly as the industry continues to mature. 杏吧原创鈥檚 MBA offers a Cannabis Control concentration that gives you the opportunity to dive deeper into some of the specific facets of business administration in the cannabis industry. Here are more ways an MBA prepares you for a career in cannabis control.

Develop Core Business Skills

An MBA provides a solid foundation in analysis, budgeting, and forecasting鈥攅ssential knowledge considering the unique challenges of banking and taxation in the industry.

Learn Marketing Strategy Development

Advertising, branding, and customer acquisition plans are crucial for success in the increasingly competitive market, which still features a direct-to-consumer product at the dispensary level.

Master Supply Chain Management

Mastering the supply chain, inventory control, and quality assurance is vital for efficient cannabis operations in a highly regulated environment.

Understand Regulations and Compliance

An MBA isn鈥檛 a law degree, but it can help you understand the legal and political landscape and develop the skills to navigate strict compliance requirements and cannabis licensing.

Accelerate your career in the cannabis industry and beyond with 杏吧原创鈥檚 MBA.

What Jobs Can You Get with a Cannabis Specialization?

From cultivation to retail to logistics and licensing, there are jobs across the spectrum of the industry that you can get with a cannabis specialization.

Dispensary Manager

Dispensary managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a cannabis retail location, including staff management, inventory control, and service.

Compliance Manager

A cannabis compliance manager is responsible for ensuring that a business operates within federal, state, and local regulations such as those around cannabis licensing. This includes training staff, communicating with regulators, and managing risk.

E-Commerce Manager

An e-commerce manager is the driving force behind a brand鈥檚 online presence and sales. In the cannabis control industry, this also means being aware of local and state regulations that shape how cannabis products can be marketed, sold, and shipped.

Cannabis Control Industry Outlook

On January 1, 2014, . Ten years later, reports that 74% of Americans now live in a state where marijuana has been legalized for either medical or recreational use.

Industry growth has been recent and rapid, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which reports accelerated both cannabis sales and changes in legislation that relaxed regulations in states with legalized use and even criminal penalties in states without it. They also project the industry to continue to grow to a market valuation of $444.34 billion by 2030.

How to Get Started in the Cannabis Business

Getting your start in the cannabis business may look different depending on what part of the cannabis control industry you鈥檙e interested in. Even if you鈥檙e familiar with how a dispensary works, you鈥檒l have to commit yourself to continuing education on consumer trends, different plant strains, and cultivation techniques. In addition to product education, a firm understanding of business fundamentals and the skills you build in an MBA program are essential.

Regardless of what career path you pursue, you鈥檒l need to understand the cannabis laws in your area. Regulations vary significantly by state鈥攁nd even by county. It鈥檚 important to remember that cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, which impacts banking, taxation, and interstate commerce.

And don鈥檛 forget the importance of people. Networking is important to building a career in any industry. Cannabis-focused conferences, online communities, and networking events are great places to connect with others in the business.

Learn more about how you can become a leader in the industry with 杏吧原创鈥檚 MBA program and Graduate Certificate in Cannabis Control.

Traditional Marketing vs. Digital Marketing

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

The pair of sneakers advertised in the magazine in your dentist鈥檚 office; the 15-second ad about a new weight loss medicine popping up as you scroll on Facebook; the picture of a faraway beach, as well as the travel agency that can get you there, on the bus passing on the street鈥攁ll of these are examples of marketing. Marketing involves promoting, selling, and distributing a product or service that customers desire.

Traditional marketing and digital marketing are the two types of marketing that businesses use to connect to their consumers. Let鈥檚 take a closer look at them.

What Is Traditional Marketing?

Traditional marketing as we know it can essentially trace its roots back to the 1950s, when television gained massive popularity. As opposed to newspapers and other print media, companies could reach larger audiences in their homes with television. As you might have guessed by now, this type of marketing involves any offline, nondigital method to advertise products and services. Some specific examples include:

  • Print marketing. This involves advertising in newspapers, magazines, brochures, posters, etc.
  • Broadcast marketing. Television and radio advertising can reach greater audiences than other traditional means.
  • Direct mail. Some businesses send letters, catalogs, etc. directly to consumers.
  • Outdoor marketing. Examples of outdoor advertising are billboards, banners, ads on public transportation, and signs.
  • Cold calling. Another popular traditional marketing strategy involves reaching out to consumers via phone calls.

Key components of traditional marketing are that it usually involves tangible products and is targeted to a specific geographic area or audience.

What Is Digital Marketing?

On the other hand, digital marketing uses the internet and other digital strategies to reach consumers. This type of marketing has become increasingly popular with the growth of the , AI in marketing, and the overall ability to connect faster and easier with others. This type of marketing includes:

  • Content marketing. This refers to developing and sharing content in blogs, videos, infographics, etc. for lead generation.
  • Social media marketing. Promoting products and branding efforts using social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and more can be effective.
  • Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising. PPC includes running ads on platforms like Google, Meta, and Bing to drive more traffic to your product or service.
  • Search engine optimization (SEO). Optimizing your website content, as well as making it easier to engage with, can result in improved search engine rankings and lead generation.
  • Mobile marketing.聽This involves reaching consumers through applications, , or push notifications.
  • Affiliate marketing. This means collaborating with industry experts, social media influencers, and other third-party members to promote your product in exchange for compensation.
  • Analytics. You can measure the success of digital marketing campaigns through digital analytics tools like Google Analytics to track consumer behavior, return on investment (ROI), and overall campaign performance.

Which One Is Better Suited for Your Business?

What works better for your business depends on the audience you want to reach and what kind of product or service you鈥檙e selling. Traditional marketing can effectively reach audiences who are less engaged with the internet; however, communication with consumers is usually one-sided. With digital marketing, campaign success can be easier to evaluate, but strategy and creativity are required to stand out in an already crowded online space.

Combining digital and traditional marketing can be the most effective way to reach consumers. Using both strategies together is called . Successful businesses use various traditional and digital marketing techniques in harmony to reach their target audience.

What Skills Do You Need for a Career in Marketing?

If you鈥檙e ready to enter the world of marketing, take note: You need a degree in marketing, business, or a related field to get started, and it also would benefit you to possess , including:

  • Good communication
  • Creativity
  • Attention to detail
  • Adaptability
  • Leadership skills
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Project management
  • Analytical knowledge
  • Social media knowledge

Are you ready for a career in marketing? Get started with a business degree and be prepared to use traditional and digital marketing in your branding and lead generation efforts.

Disparities, Inequities, and Injustices in Populations With Pain: Nursing Recommendations Supporting ASPMN’s 2024 Position Statement

Posted on by Brian Pervis

Brian Pervis, department chair, School of Nursing, recently published a new article in Pain Management Nursing titled “Disparities, Inequities, and Injustices in Populations With Pain: Nursing Recommendations Supporting ASPMN’s 2024 Position Statement.” The article follows up on Brian’s earlier publication, “Disparities, Inequities, and Injustices in Populations With Pain: An ASPMN Position,” examines the disparities marginalized groups face in pain assessment and management, and offers nursing recommendations that align with the 2024 Position Statement of the American Society for Pain Management Nursing (ASPMN).

Making Degrees More Accessible Through Innovation and Cost Control

Posted on by David Schejbal

杏吧原创 president David Schejbal was interviewed by Presidents Forum for a video podcast titled “Making Degrees More Accessible Through Innovation and Cost Control.”聽 President Schejbal discusses the future of higher education in the podcast, emphasizing the enduring value of college degrees while highlighting innovative approaches to accessibility and affordability.

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Career Spotlight: Digital Forensics Analyst

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

If you enjoy the intellectual challenge of solving puzzles and seek a career where you can have a positive impact on society while serving justice, consider a career as a digital forensics analyst. You will find diverse career paths, job security in a high-demand field, and competitive salaries. Given the always-evolving nature of cybercrime and threats that continue to explode in number and variety, this career choice will keep you engaged and well rewarded throughout your career.

What Is Computer Forensics?

The field of computer forensics deals with the recovery, analysis, documentation, and safeguarding of cybercrime evidence on computers, networks, and other data storage devices.

Computer forensics involves investigating how a cybercrime was committed, as well as the extent of the exploit; analyzing malware and other types of analysis; calculating losses incurred; helping with an effective incident response; assessing threats; and, ideally, finding out who conducted the incursion.

Corporate investigators, regulators, and law enforcement may be involved. It鈥檚 possible the evidence you recover will be used in criminal and civil court, requiring you to also understand chain-of-custody issues. Your findings will further inform improvements to cyber defense measures.

Advance your career in computer forensics with a cybersecurity degree from 杏吧原创.

What Does a Digital Forensics Analyst Do?

Your role as a digital forensics analyst will generally be to discover, analyze, and investigate digital security breaches. You鈥檒l support corporate and law enforcement investigations and will contribute to mitigating vulnerabilities in the future.

When it comes to your core tasks as a digital forensics analyst, the details vary depending on your industry and seniority. Typical work responsibilities in computer forensics include:

  • Checking log files and analyzing data for evidence of the intrusion, methods used, and the identity of the cybercriminals
  • Using dynamic analysis, diving deep into the intrusion to chase down new information
  • Performing file signature analysis, file system forensic analysis, volatile data analysis, bit-level and binary analysis, and malware analysis
  • Reporting findings required by the applicable cybersecurity frameworks and regulations
  • Recovering data and restoring data integrity whenever possible
  • Discovering the clues that intruders leave in source code, malware, system configurations, and more
  • Supporting incidence response teams
  • Strengthening your organization鈥檚 cybersecurity protections against future attacks
  • Conducting threat assessment audits for known risks

How Much Do Digital Forensics Analysts Make?

Given the high demand for people with the skills to work as a digital forensics analyst, you can command a salary ranging from $62,720 as the lowest advertised salary to $161,536 in the 90th percentile of earners. The median annual advertised salary is $104,192, according to in October 2024.

What Skills Will You Need?

You鈥檒l need to develop competencies in computer forensics, network defense, compliance with security frameworks, system administration testing and evaluation, and threat analysis.

It鈥檚 vital to have knowledge of software, operating systems, network technologies, forensic tools, and the tactics, techniques, and procedures of threat actors, including obfuscation techniques.

Once you have evidence, you鈥檒l need to know how to analyze it while preserving evidence integrity.

Skill in reporting data and implications to internal teams, cybersecurity frameworks, and regulators will help prevent future losses and may save your organization from hefty fines.

How Can You Start Your Career in Computer Forensics?

Your career as a digital forensics analyst in the field of computer forensics starts with education. We invite you to explore the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program at 杏吧原创.

Most positions require a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science, cybersecurity, or digital forensics. Higher-paying positions and leadership roles typically require a master鈥檚 degree. Because the field of cybercrime is evolving so fast, you may wish to continue your education with cybersecurity certifications such as , , , and others.

Gaining practical experience in law enforcement, at private firms specializing in cybersecurity, with digital forensics labs, and on in-house corporate cybersecurity teams will help you build skills. With a commitment to formal and informal learning, you can build a rewarding career as a digital forensics analyst.

Career Spotlight: Video Game Developer

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Working as a video game developer, you鈥檒l have an important creative role in one of the fastest-growing areas of entertainment. Working as a game developer is an incredibly interesting and rewarding career where you can combine creativity, technical know-how, and a passion for strategy and storytelling.

Video games, once a niche hobby, are a global phenomenon that go beyond entertainment. Professional competitions, esports, and corporations working to gamify key functions to better engage employees and customers are examples of how video games are shaping how we consume entertainment, interact, and learn. Today, more than 190 million people in the U.S. 鈥攚ith even more overseas. It鈥檚 a growing field.

What Does a Video Game Developer Do?

Before we talk about what you might do in this role, it鈥檚 worth answering the question, What is game development?

In brief, game development is a process for creating video games played on game consoles and computers鈥攐ne of the many exciting career paths open to people with a degree in computer science. It involves game design; building the game engine; crafting a player user experience; creating objectives, strategies, and characters; scripting; and creating game play implements. Gamers today also expect stunning visuals and fully developed worlds made realistic through environment design, sound effects, and music.

So, what does a game developer do? The answer depends on the type of gaming company you work for. In smaller companies, you鈥檒l cover everything, but in big companies, you鈥檒l most likely specialize. You might work for a company that develops games or for outside consultants and contractors. Common tasks include:

  • Designing games and ideating game concepts
  • Programming and coding the game design, characters, environment, movements, etc. into a playable game
  • Prototyping, testing, improving, and finishing the gameplay
  • Working together with designers and artists, producers, technologists, and marketing experts
  • Cross-platforming games to work on different consoles and computer operating systems
  • Improving and expanding games with mods and in-game purchases
  • Specializing in developing games for a specific system, a type of game, or even a specific game element, such as user interfaces or environments
Start a career in video game development with a computer science degree from 杏吧原创.

What Kinds of Developers Are There?

Working as a game developer means you have a choice of types of roles and work environments. Some of these include:

Game Developer

These roles are for developing games for a specific platform such as Xbox or Nintendo.

Second-Party Developer

Some companies develop games for a specific platform but don鈥檛 work directly for the company that owns the platform.

Third-Party Developer

Other companies are independent of consoles and console companies, such as Electronic Arts, developing games for all environments.

Indie Developer

are thriving, both creating mass-market successes like Minecraft and indie game niche hits like Kingdom Come: Deliverance.

How Much Does a Video Game Developer Make?

How much video game developers can make depends on many factors. For example, according to in October 2024, mobile game developers earned less than general game developers, with a median advertised salary of $83,328 compared to $100,224. But when you get to the highest paid, in the 90th percentile, the dynamic flips. Mobile game developers earn an annual advertised salary of $187,264, compared to $156,544 for the highest-paid general game developers.

How Can I Get Started?

Education is the starting point of breaking into the game development field. Earning a computer science degree is a requirement for most jobs. From there, take advantage of career services, networking, and attending conferences. You can also start building your portfolio and making a name for yourself by offering open-source contributions and participating in game jams. The important thing is to take the first steps.

If you want to bring your creative visions to life, build immersive worlds, entertain people with compelling storylines and strategic dilemmas, and enjoy a collaborative environment, working as a video game developer is worth considering. Explore technology degree programs at 杏吧原创.

Career Spotlight: Receptionist

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

At the front of any office is someone who greets customers and manages a variety of communication duties. This person is a receptionist, and they are responsible for interacting with people who visit the business and for completing various administrative tasks, including answering calls, organizing files, managing records, and scheduling appointments. You can find receptionists in almost every industry, from health care to law enforcement. They work in hospitals, doctors鈥� offices, hotels, law offices, schools, real estate companies, banks, and many other locations.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2023, receptionists earned a median salary of $35,840 per year, with the highest 10% of earners making more than $47,000 annually. 杏吧原创 137,800 receptionist positions are expected to open up each year through 2033.

Entry Level Job with an Associate Degree in Business

If you鈥檙e interested in becoming a receptionist, you can do so with only a high school diploma; however, an associate degree will get you higher pay and help you stand out on your resume. Read on to explore more about this career.

Kick-start your career with Excelsior's AAS in Administrative and Management Studies.

What Do Receptionists Do?

Receptionists are responsible for a variety of tasks and responsibilities, from answering telephones to scheduling meetings. They typically do the following:

  • Answer, screen, and forward telephone calls
  • Greet customers and other visitors
  • Copy, file, and maintain records
  • Receive, sort, distribute, and prepare mail
  • Ensure the reception area is neat and tidy
  • Provide information about the business
  • Follow safety procedures and control access via the reception desk
  • Order office supplies
  • Update calendars and schedule meetings
  • Arrange travel and accommodations and prepare vouchers
  • Maintain the general office filing system
  • Coordinate internal and external events
  • Manage the availability of meeting and conference rooms
  • Supervise office services such as cleaners and maintenance staff

How to Become a Receptionist

Most entry-level receptionist positions usually require a high school diploma. Other employers may prefer you have a higher degree, like an associate degree in business or a related field. It鈥檚 important to check with your potential employer to make sure you have the right level of education.

It may also be a good idea to receive training in various entry-level jobs, including as a restaurant host, a bank clerk, or a volunteer in a community nonprofit. When you鈥檙e hired, you may also receive on-the-job training specific to the company so you know how to use its equipment and understand the inner workings of the office.

Additionally, though not required, a certificate may help you stand out from other job candidates and add to your knowledge. The certificate and the are two of the many available certification courses that can prepare you to perform a receptionist鈥檚 tasks efficiently and accurately.

Receptionist Educational Requirements

As mentioned, many receptionists usually have at least a high school diploma. An associate or bachelor鈥檚 degree in administrative services, business, communications, office management, or a related field will give you an edge over your competition.

贰虫肠别濒蝉颈辞谤鈥檚 Associate in Applied Science in Administrative and Management Studies prepares you to be a receptionist as well as other business supporting roles like secretary, administrative assistant, inventory manager, customer service representative, facilities supervisor, personnel associate, and resource coordinator. Training includes common software like Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. You鈥檒l learn about 聽strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis and gain knowledge on human resource management, recruitment and hiring, and how to approach various legal and ethical workplace issues.

How to Become a Good Receptionist

In addition to the appropriate education and on-the-job training, there are certain qualities that can make you stand out as a good receptionist. Successful receptionists lean on the following traits and skills:

  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Emotional strength
  • Typing skills
  • Technical skills
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Customer service
  • Organization
  • Empathy

If becoming a receptionist sounds like a good fit for you, contact an 杏吧原创 admissions counselor about earning the business degree that will help you achieve your career goals.

Career Spotlight: Network Architect

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

What Is a Network Architect?

Network architects are key employees to any organization. They design and implement computer networks, often installing routers, modems, and other hardware and software that are essential for communication networks to work correctly. They produce plans for the detailed layout of cables and other requirements of a network and work to resolve any issues that may arise.

Although it might seem like one size fits all, there are several types of network architects, each specializing in a particular field. Let鈥檚 look at some of them:

  • Wireless network architect. These architects specialize in designing wireless networks, including Wi-Fi, cellular, and satellite.
  • Data center network architect.聽These architects design and manage networks of data centers.
  • Cloud network architect. These architects have knowledge in cloud-based platforms and design networks for all cloud-based applications and services.
  • Network security architect. These architects design and maintain network security systems that protect against cyberthreats.
  • Enterprise network architect. These architects manage the networks of large corporations and organizations.
Jump-start your career in network architecture with 贰虫肠别濒蝉颈辞谤鈥檚 BS in Information Technology.

What Is Network Architecture?

Network architecture is how network services and devices are connected to serve the needs of the end users. Network architecture can be efficient, reliable, and automated.

What Does a Network Architect Do?

Although there are several types of network architects, generally, there are certain responsibilities they all share:

  • Designing the network architecture
  • Overseeing customer network documentation
  • Setting schedules and budgets
  • Selecting the appropriate hardware, software, and protocols to be used
  • Performing maintenance and repairs on the network
  • Ensuring clear coordination and communication
  • Coordinating data management
  • Protecting the network from security threats
  • Researching new network technologies to stay up to date
  • Designing and implementing a disaster recovery plan
  • Managing a team of network engineers and administrators
  • Providing incident support for customers

What Is a Typical Network Architect Career Path?

Network architects have a strong technical background, particularly in operating systems and network security. Most professionals have at least a bachelor鈥檚 degree, but many have a master鈥檚 degree in an IT-related field.

Before landing their coveted role, network architects usually have up to 10 years鈥� experience working in a related IT field, typically as a computer systems administrator, a database administrator, or a computer systems analyst.

According to the , computer network architects made a median annual salary of $129,840 in May 2023, and employment in the field was projected to grow by 13% from 2023 to 2033. Landing this role is a fantastic opportunity, and it can also put you on the pathway to becoming a computer and information systems manager or other executive-level position.

Where Do Computer Network Architects Work?

Network architects work in almost every sector, from finance to medicine. You can find them in large corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, law offices, hospitals, and more. Quite often, network architects work outside normal business hours because they may need to perform maintenance and upgrades to networks. Sometimes they may travel to satellite offices and data centers to do remote work.

How to Become a Network Architect

Are you interested in becoming a network architect? The first step is to obtain the proper education. Usually, this means a bachelor鈥檚 degree in an information technology-related field. It鈥檚 also important to gain experience in the field, either through internships or apprenticeships. Note, also, that to be a network architect, it鈥檚 important to have several years of related experience.

You may also consider earning professional certifications that show your expertise and willingness to keep learning. Gaining specific skills and staying up to date in the latest technology allows you to focus on a particular network architecture area and stand out from your peers.

Skills Needed to Become a Network Architect

We know network architects need to have a strong background in computer technology to be successful, but what else do they need? Here are some other qualities that may help you become a network architect:

  • Analytical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • Organizational skills
  • Good interpersonal communication
  • Good leadership abilities

Education for Network Architect

As mentioned, to be a network architect, it鈥檚 important to have at least a bachelor鈥檚 degree in a computer science– or information technology-related field. 杏吧原创鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program provides you with the knowledge, skills, applications, and practices you need to make an immediate impact in the IT field.

Accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of , the online BS in IT program develops expertise in subjects including software and development, computer systems, database management, network communication, cybersecurity, system administration, human-computer interaction, and project management. Choose between two technical concentrations鈥擟ybersecurity Technology or Network Operations鈥攖hat prepare you for positions in high-demand job areas within the information technology industry, or pursue the general option for the opportunity to design a study plan that aligns with your career goals.

Network Architect Certifications

Pursuing certifications as a network architect can set you above your peers and make you stand out to potential employers. Some of the various certifications that you can pursue are CompTIA Network+ Certification, Certified Information Systems Security Professional Certification, and others. 杏吧原创 has partnered with ed2go to offer several certifications that can help you grow your skills.

If you鈥檇 like to start on your path toward becoming a network architect, reach out to an Excelsior admissions counselor today.