How Does Sleep Deprivation Affect Your Health?

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Sleep deprivation can take its toll on mental and physical health. Not getting enough shut-eye leads to more than simply feeling tired. Poor sleep hygiene increases serious risk of health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, to name a few.

Here, we鈥檒l explore the importance of getting enough rest for both mind and body well-being, what can happen if you don鈥檛, and how to get into a healthier routine.

What Is Sleep Deprivation?

is when you don鈥檛 get enough sleep for an extended period. It isn鈥檛 the same as insomnia, which is when you try but can鈥檛 fall asleep.

Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep every night and need to go through four or five sleep cycles. A cycle is made of four stages:

  • Stage 1: Light sleep, happening when you first fall asleep or between cycles (5% of cycle).
  • Stage 2: Deeper sleep, which is linked to memory storage and learning (45% of cycle).
  • Stage 3: Deepest sleep, linked to recovery and renewal (25% of cycle).
  • Stage 4: Rapid eye movement, the dreaming phase, or REM sleep (25% of cycle).

Failure to get enough sleep slowly . In the short term, people feel tired and sleepy. They may be irritable or unmotivated. Trouble focusing, thinking, or remembering things is also common. In the long term, the effects grow more severe.

Advance your career and the health of your community with a health sciences degree from Excelsior.

What Are the Effects of Sleep Deprivation?

Those who don鈥檛 practice good sleep hygiene face serious long-term physical and mental effects of sleep deprivation.

Physical Effects of Sleep Deprivation

  • Lowered immunity
  • Falling asleep at the wrong time
  • Weight gain
  • Diabetes
  • Heart and circulatory issues
  • Tremors and muscle spasms
  • Increased pain, achy joints, heartburn, and migraines

Mental Effects of Sleep Deprivation

  • Impaired judgment and impulsivity
  • Increased anxiety
  • Bipolar disorder and manias
  • Depression

What Is Sleep Hygiene?

Creating a routine, a restful environment, and a schedule that supports getting enough uninterrupted sleep are what constitute . Habits matter, as they help set your internal clock and create a predictable wind-down routine that sets you up to relax and fall asleep. Here are some tips:

  • Use an alarm clock to tell you when to start getting ready for bed. Having a fixed schedule for falling asleep is as important as having one for waking up.
  • Create a consistent routine of getting ready for bed.
  • Stay off electronic screens for at least an hour before bed. Stretching, reading, and meditation can help you wind down.
  • Dim the lights, block noise, and add calming scents to create a relaxing environment.
  • Get lots of physical exercise and sun exposure during the day to support your sleep rhythm.
  • Pay attention to your health, limiting smoking, alcohol consumption, and junk food.

Although sleep deprivation is different from insomnia, your habits may become so entrenched that you do, indeed, fall into insomnia. Among the options for relief is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), which is a that helps you restructure the feelings, thoughts, or behaviors that prevent a good night鈥檚 sleep.

How Can You Make a Difference with a Health Sciences Degree?

A bachelor鈥檚 degree in health sciences can give you a solid understanding of overall health and wellness, including how to promote good sleep hygiene. It opens doors to careers in sleep research, sleep therapy, psychology roles specializing in sleep, sleep technicians, and even sleep lab managers. Each plays a role in understanding sleep deprivation and sleep disorders, as well as helping to diagnose and treat them. CBT-I, nutrition, exercise, and technology all play a part.

If helping others overcome their health and wellness challenges sounds like an appealing career, pursuing a health sciences degree may be right for you. With the right education, you can help people improve their physical and mental well-being.

Top Careers in Health Care Administration to Pursue

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Health care administration is a vital field that ensures the efficient operation of health care facilities, from hospitals to clinics to nursing homes. Professionals in this domain play a crucial role in shaping the health care landscape by managing staff, overseeing budgets, ensuring regulatory compliance, and implementing policies that improve patient care and operational efficiency.

Below, we explore all you need to know about entering the field, along with potential health care admin jobs and workplaces.

The Importance of Health Care Administration

The importance of health care administration lies in its impact on the quality of health care services, patient outcomes, and the overall functioning of health care systems. With the right expertise, health care administrators can lead organizations toward innovation, sustainability, and excellence in patient care and, consequently, make a notable difference in the lives of countless individuals. And the 鈥攖he United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is projecting an eye-popping 28% employment growth rate between 2022 and 2032.

Key Skills for Success

Success in health care administration jobs requires a diverse for effectively leading organizations, improving patient outcomes, and navigating the complexities of the industry:

  • Leadership and management. Health care administrators must be strong leaders capable of managing teams, making strategic decisions, and guiding their organizations toward achieving their goals.
  • Communication. Clear and effective communication with staff, patients, and stakeholders is essential. Administrators must convey complex information, listen to concerns, and facilitate collaboration.
  • Interpersonal skills. Building and maintaining positive relationships with staff, patients, and other stakeholders is vital for a harmonious and productive work environment.
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking. The ability to analyze situations, identify problems, and develop effective solutions is critical in the fast-paced (and often unpredictable) health care environment.
  • Financial acumen. Understanding budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation helps administrators manage costs while maintaining high-quality care.
  • Knowledge of health care regulations and compliance. Staying informed about health care laws, regulations, and accreditation standards ensures that the organization operates within legal and ethical boundaries.
  • Organizational skills. Managing multiple tasks, projects, and responsibilities requires exceptional organization and attention to detail.
  • Technical proficiency. Familiarity with health care information systems, electronic health records (EHRs), and other technology tools is increasingly important.
  • Adaptability and resilience. The health care landscape is constantly changing, and successful administrators must be adaptable, resilient, and open to continuous learning and improvement.

Education Pathways

Both bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 degrees in health care administration can lead to a rewarding career in this field. A bachelor鈥檚 degree provides a solid foundation and the opportunity to enter the workforce quickly, whereas a master鈥檚 degree offers advanced knowledge and the potential for higher-level positions.

Bachelor鈥檚 Degree

A bachelor鈥檚 degree in health care management or administration is an excellent starting point for those looking to enter the field. This undergraduate program typically covers fundamental topics like health care management, health services delivery, health care law and ethics, financial management, and human resources.

Graduates with a bachelor鈥檚 degree can pursue entry-level positions such as administrative assistants, office managers, or departmental coordinators in various health care settings. Over time, professionals can advance their careers by gaining experience, earning certifications, or pursuing further education.

Master鈥檚 Degree

A master鈥檚 degree in health care administration (or MHA, for short) provides a more in-depth and advanced education, preparing individuals for higher-level leadership and management roles. This graduate program delves deeper into topics like health care policy, strategic planning, advanced financial management, health care informatics, and organizational behavior.

An MHA is often preferred or required for senior positions like hospital administrators, health care executives, and policy analysts. This pathway is suited for those who aspire to take on leadership roles or specialize in areas like health care consulting, academia, or governmental roles.

Where Do Health Care Administrators Work?

Health care admin jobs may exist in a , including:

  • Hospitals 鈥� managing operations, staffing, budgeting, and patient care processes.
  • Clinics 鈥� overseeing administrative functions, patient flow, and regulatory compliance.
  • Nursing homes and long-term care facilities 鈥� ensuring quality care, managing staff, and coordinating services for residents.
  • Public health organizations 鈥� developing and implementing health policies, managing programs, and improving community health.
  • Insurance companies 鈥� managing health care plans, customer service, and regulatory compliance.
  • Government agencies 鈥� working on health care policy, regulation, and public health initiatives.
  • Nonprofit organizations 鈥� managing programs, fundraising, and advocacy for health-related causes.
  • Rehabilitation centers 鈥� overseeing patient care, staff, and administrative functions.
  • Private practices 鈥� managing business operations, finances, and patient services.
  • Universities and research institutions 鈥� overseeing health care programs, research projects, and academic administration.

Entry-Level Jobs

The following roles are typical for a person starting their career in health care administration:

Medical Records Coordinator

A medical records coordinator manages and maintains patient health records, ensuring they are accurate, updated, and compliant with regulations such as privacy laws. They enter data into electronic health records (EHR) systems, review records for accuracy, and correct any discrepancies. In addition, they coordinate with health care providers and administrative staff to facilitate the smooth flow of information, manage health information technologies, and ensure data security.

Medical Auditor

Many industries, especially finance, employ auditors to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency, and health care is no different. Medical auditors, as the name suggests, focus on health care documentation, particularly billing, medical coding, and general operations. Through their efforts, health care organizations can pinpoint costly inefficiencies, improve profit, and prevent fraud.

Midlevel Jobs

With some industry experience, health care administrators may transition into the following roles:

Healthcare Policy Analyst

A health care policy analyst evaluates and develops policies that impact health care systems and services. They conduct research and analyze data on health care issues, trends, and legislation to assess the potential effects of proposed policies. Providing evidence-based insights, they play a key role in shaping policies that enhance public health and the overall efficiency of health care systems.

Clinical Operations Manager

A clinical operations manager oversees the day-to-day operations of clinical departments within health care facilities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care. They manage clinical staff, coordinate schedules, and streamline workflows to enhance efficiency. Their responsibilities include developing and implementing policies and procedures, monitoring compliance with health care regulations, and managing budgets and resources.

Senior-Level Jobs

The following leadership roles are among the most senior positions in health care administration:

Director of Health Care Operations

The director of health care operations oversees the administrative and operational functions of health care facilities, ensuring that services run efficiently and effectively. They manage day-to-day activities, including staffing, budgeting, and resource allocation, while ensuring compliance with health care regulations and standards. The director works to streamline processes, improve patient care quality, and implement best practices across the organization, collaborating with medical staff, department heads, and other stakeholders to develop and execute operational strategies.

CEO of Health Care Organizations

The chief executive officer of a health care organization is responsible for its overall strategic direction and management. They oversee all operational aspects, including financial performance, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of patient care. The CEO works closely with the board of directors, the executive team, and medical staff to develop and implement policies, set goals, and drive organizational growth and innovation. They ensure that the organization鈥檚 mission and vision are upheld while navigating the complexities of the health care industry.

Earn Your MS in Health Care Administration Online

If you aim to take a leadership role in health care administration, you may want to invest in a higher degree. When it comes to a program that can align with your current lifestyle and obligations, the Master of Science in Health Care Administration offered online at 杏吧原创 can equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to face the health care industry鈥檚 most pressing issues head-on through strategic decision-making. Request more information about this 36-credit-hour master鈥檚 degree or today!

Can You Become a Nurse with a Health Science Degree?

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

Nursing and health sciences coursework definitely overlap in areas. But can you become a nurse with a health science degree? The short answer is no. At least not directly.

Although earning a degree in health sciences gives you a broad foundation for a career in health care, you must earn a nursing degree that鈥檚 focused on direct patient care and then pass the to become a registered nurse.

That said, if you already have a health science degree or if you鈥檝e completed some of the health science degree requirements, you can earn your nursing degree faster because some of the credits are the same for both degrees.

How Is a Degree in Health Sciences Different Than a Nursing Degree?

health sciences degrees vs nursing degrees

Although you can鈥檛 become a nurse directly with a health science degree, it does open the door to many career options in nonclinical and clinical roles.

Health science鈥搑elated careers include hands-on patient-care roles like paramedic, respiratory therapist, or nutritionist. You may prefer lab-based work as a lab assistant or medical technologist. Biomedical equipment technicians, roles within biomedical and pharmaceutical companies, and positions with government agencies, insurance companies, and consulting firms are also open to you with this degree.

A Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences is your foundation for pursuing graduate and professional programs in pharmacology, chiropractic, physical and occupational therapy, dentistry, and medicine.

A nursing degree, by contrast, prepares you for a career directly caring for patients. To become a licensed registered nurse (RN), you need to earn an associate degree in nursing, which includes clinical training and classes in patient care, and then pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam. You could also take the exam after earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which would take longer to complete but would provide you with greater advancement and earning potential.

Kick-start your nursing career with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from 杏吧原创.

What Education Is Needed to Become a Registered Nurse?

You would need to earn your associate or bachelor鈥檚 in nursing, along with passing the NCLEX-RN licensing exam, to become a registered nurse. Although an associate degree in nursing is sufficient to take and pass the NCLEX-RN, it鈥檚 useful to compare a bachelor鈥檚 in nursing to one in health sciences to better understand why the education received with the former is necessary to become a registered nurse.

For starters, you would take some of the same classes to earn your bachelor鈥檚 in nursing as you would for a bachelor鈥檚 in health science, such as psychology, ethics, biology, nutrition, anatomy, biostatistics, and medical terminology, chemistry, and biology. The nursing component of the bachelor鈥檚 degree would also likely include classes about the nursing profession, informatics, leadership, communication and decision-making, research, teaching and learning, and public health, as well as clinical training (more in a bachelor鈥檚 program than you鈥檇 receive in an associate nursing program).

Liberal arts classes in humanities, history, and electives round out the degree.

Nursing programs include a live practicum that鈥檚 structured in a way to gain experience applying your clinical knowledge and skills, along with patient care expertise, in real-life situations under careful supervision.

The last step is passing the NCLEX-RN exam that covers care management, safety and infection control, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial issues, and physiology that includes basic care and comfort, pharmacological and parenteral therapies, risk reduction, and physiological adaptation.

You can see why the answer to the question, Can you become a nurse with a health science degree? is no. It can be a good start, but it won鈥檛 give you the preparation you need to become a nurse.

What Are the Different Levels of Nursing?

You have a choice of nursing degrees and paths to becoming a nurse. Many people get started with basic credentials and build on their education as they work in the field, earning increasingly advanced degrees and building on their practical applied experience and expertise. Some decide to specialize and move forward with master鈥檚 degrees.

Among your options are:

  • Associate degree programs (e.g., Associate in Applied Science in Nursing and Associate in Science in Nursing): An associate degree in nursing is a solid starting point for developing your knowledge of nursing. In addition to being able to take the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse, you can apply your degree toward a BS in Nursing.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing: This four-year undergraduate degree opens up more career opportunities with better-paying jobs. Some students prefer to complete their bachelor鈥檚 before taking the NCLEX-RN, though many RNs may decide to become licensed after earning their associate degree, working for a while as a registered nurse, and then going back to school for their bachelor鈥檚. And if you鈥檙e a licensed practical nurse without either degree, you may be able to find an LPN to BS in Nursing program that offers an expedited pathway that applies your vocational learning to an undergraduate degree.
  • Master of Science in Nursing programs: These give you ongoing education around specialized areas for the next level of your career. Examples of these include the MS in Nursing Education, MS in Nursing Informatics, and MS in Nursing Leadership and Administration of Health Care Systems. With a master鈥檚, you can either enter advanced practice specialties or enter leadership roles within a health care organization. As with some undergraduate programs, registered nurses may be able to find expedited dual-degree programs where they could earn their bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 quicker than pursuing the degrees separately.

Where you start your nursing career is less important than simply getting started. Exciting careers in the field all include expertise and practical experience that you can only receive from earning a degree and working as a nurse. Whether you start as an LPN, get an associate鈥檚 degree, build off of a health sciences degree, or earn a bachelor鈥檚 in nursing, you have a solid foundation for a rewarding career.

杏吧原创 Celebrates 53rd Commencement Ceremony

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

Albany, N.Y.听 鈥� 杏吧原创 celebrated its 53rd Commencement on Friday, July 12 at 11 a.m. at the MVP Arena in Albany, New York. The Commencement ceremony brought together graduates of Excelsior鈥檚 online programs to commemorate their achievements in-person with University faculty and staff, family, friends, and supporters.

This year鈥檚 Commencement ceremony featured remarks from graduate speaker Sena Amegbletor, who shared the story of her journey from fourth-grade teacher in Ghana to two-time 杏吧原创 graduate and health care professional.

The Excelsior Alumni Service Award was posthumously presented to Norvell “Van” Coots, M.D., retired U.S. Army Brigadier General and former president and CEO of Maryland’s Holy Cross Health system. Excelsior Alumni Association president and National Academy of Public Administration director of development and philanthropy Tony Spearman-Leach honored Norvell Coots and delivered the commencement address.

Excelsior celebrates its diversity and global representation. The Class of 2024 features 4,012 graduates from across the world. The graduates represent all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico in addition to 14 other nations. A total of 1,062 graduates are from New York state, including 107 graduates from the Capital Region. The graduates range in age from 12 to 81, and the average age of the Class of 2024 is 35 years old. 25% of graduates are active-duty service members of the U.S. military, and 33 students earned more than one degree during the academic year. For more facts about Excelsior鈥檚 Class of 2024, view the Graduates at a Glance document.

“We are proud to celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of 杏吧原创鈥檚 Class of 2024 today,鈥� said David Schejbal, president of 杏吧原创. “Our graduates are a diverse group joining us from around the globe, but they share the determination, resilience, and passion for learning that define the Excelsior community. Most of these graduates are working adults who can put their education into practice immediately in the workplace as they advance in their careers, positively impact their communities, and achieve their personal and professional goals.”

The event was livestreamed for those unable to attend. The video and all Commencement information is available at excelsior.edu/commencement.

# # #

Media Contact 杏吧原创:
Jason Bonafide,听jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
杏吧原创 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 鈥� academically and geographically 鈥� removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.

 

杏吧原创 Criminal Justice Graduate Kimberly Dove Earns Honors for Her Work with Incarcerated Youth

Posted on by Jason Bonafide

In her role as chaplain at Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility, Kimberly Dove makes a positive impact on at-risk and incarcerated youth every day. Dove鈥檚 innovative work with young people in the juvenile justice system earned her the 2022 Department of Youth Services Employee of the Year Award at the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility. She has been recognized nationally as an expert in her field, presenting at the fall National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ) conference on methods for discouraging youth from joining gangs. She accomplished all this while pursuing a Criminal Justice degree at 杏吧原创. Dove graduated from the program in June.

Dove came to criminal justice from a prior career in social work, initially volunteering within the prison system community. She discovered 杏吧原创 upon beginning her work in corrections, as the flexibility of Excelsior’s online programs allowed Dove to learn on her own time while often working long, unpredictable hours with sporadic access to the internet. She earned an Associate in Science in Liberal Arts in 2017 and recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

鈥淚 always encourage the youth I work with to pursue an education, because I know that continuing my learning with Excelsior has allowed me to have a greater impact on my community,鈥� said Dove. 鈥淚鈥檝e been able to put the knowledge from my Criminal Justice classes into action right away in my career and see the positive change on those we serve.鈥�

At the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility, Dove uses the game of chess to help youth with mental health issues and gang backgrounds change the course of their futures. After working with the National Chess Federation and a neighboring county using a similar tool, she developed a chess program to help youthful offenders with critical thinking skills and in making strategic decisions that can be applied to life experiences. Her chess program is so successful that she has a waitlist.

Her job as chaplain involves much more than chess. Dove鈥檚 extensive knowledge of religious laws helps ensure that youthful offenders have what they need to practice their faith at the facility. She also takes a proactive role in the community’s safety by learning the signs of gang activity and taking preventative action.

鈥淜imberly Dove is a true inspiration, not just to her peers in the criminal justice system and the youth she serves at Indian River, but to her fellow 杏吧原创 students and graduates,鈥� said David Schejbal, president of 杏吧原创. 鈥淜imberly鈥檚 story is a great example for busy, working adult learners, demonstrating how education can fit into a demanding schedule and support a successful career. We are proud that Kimberly Dove is part of the Excelsior community.鈥�

Learn more about Kimberly鈥檚 story here: /article/kimberly-dove-criminal-justice-degree-chess-story/

# # #听

Media Contact 杏吧原创:
Jason Bonafide,听jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

ABOUT EXCELSIOR UNIVERSITY
杏吧原创听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 鈥� academically and geographically 鈥� removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.听

What Is Nuclear Energy鈥檚 Role in Going Carbon Neutral?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

As the world commits to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change, nuclear energy is essential to reduce fossil fuel consumption and increase reliance on clean energy sources. Nuclear energy鈥檚 and during operation make it a vital clean energy source. Nuclear power plants also reduce harmful air pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and better public health.

Nuclear energy complements renewable energy sources, like wind and solar. Hybrid energy systems combining nuclear and other sources can and reduce emissions. Additionally, nuclear energy can be used for nonelectric applications like district heating, hydrogen production, and purification.

Let鈥檚 dive deeper into nuclear energy to discover what role it plays in powering our world鈥攁nd what it means for our future.

What Does Being Carbon Neutral Mean?

Major companies and countries increasingly commit to becoming carbon neutral. and , for instance, have claimed they aim to become carbon neutral by 2040. Carbon neutrality means matching the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted into the atmosphere with the same amount of CO2 removed or offset.

Achieving carbon neutrality on an industrial or national scale could mitigate climate change. Ways to help achieve this critical goal include installing solar panels, switching to electric vehicles, and using renewable energy. You can also participate in projects like tree planting and wetland restoration.

Help power the future with a BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology from 杏吧原创.

What Is the Difference Between Carbon Neutral and Net Zero?

You might have heard the terms 鈥渃arbon neutral鈥� and 鈥渘et zero鈥� being tossed around regarding nuclear energy. But what do they mean? Are they the same thing? Let鈥檚 break it all down.

Net zero involves balancing all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions with the same amount removed from the atmosphere. This requires extensive emissions reductions and advanced carbon removal efforts. Alternatively, carbon neutrality focuses specifically on carbon dioxide emissions. This is achieved by offsetting through projects that absorb or reduce CO2. Net zero is a long-term, comprehensive goal that includes all GHGs and requires significant reductions and global collaboration, whereas carbon neutrality is more immediate and cost-effective.

Additionally, these concepts each require . Both ideas are important for climate action, with carbon neutrality as a starting point and net zero as the ultimate objective to .

How Does Nuclear Energy Play a Role in Being Carbon Neutral?

Nuclear power is vital to the clean energy transition thanks to its low carbon footprint and lack of direct carbon dioxide emissions. In fact, in 2020, To put that into perspective, it鈥檚 like removing 100 million cars from the road.

Although nuclear energy is not without its critics and challenges, it has the potential to significantly contribute to carbon neutrality by reducing emissions beyond electricity generation. By pursuing the right education, you can enter the field of nuclear energy and play a part in shaping a net-zero future.

Is Education the New Self-Care?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

The concept of self-care has evolved beyond the traditional notions of spa days and yoga retreats. Education has emerged as a unique and powerful form of self-investment and personal well-being. The pursuit of knowledge is no longer just a means to an end, but a vital tool for mental resilience, emotional stability, and overall life satisfaction. By embracing education as self-care, we not only expand our horizons but also empower ourselves to lead more fulfilling lives. Let鈥檚 delve into the question, Why is self-care important? and discover the unique benefits of using education as a form of self-care.

What Is Self-Care?

Self-care is taking deliberate actions to maintain and improve one鈥檚 physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It encompasses various activities and habits to reduce stress, enhance health, and promote happiness. There are several areas of self-care and to engage in it.

  • Physical self-care. Physical self-care means taking care of our bodies. This includes eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, exercising, and taking any necessary medications regularly.
  • Social self-care. It鈥檚 important to socialize, but sometimes, making time for our friends and family is hard. Try scheduling game or movie nights with friends or attending a football game with your family. Don鈥檛 forget to contact a friend or family member you haven鈥檛 heard from.
  • Mental self-care. What we fill our minds with influences how we act. Mental self-care helps us keep a healthy mindset. Doing puzzles, reading books, or playing board games or intellectual games are ways to keep your mind sharp.
  • Spiritual self-care. You don鈥檛 have to follow a religion to take care of your spiritual well-being, though many people find following a religion to be a form of spiritual self-care. involve meditating, going for a nature walk, practicing compassion, or journaling.
  • Emotional self-care. Nurturing your inner self and emotions is an important part of self-care. Being in touch with and controlling your emotions can benefit your overall well-being. Asking for help when needed, seeing a therapist, setting personal boundaries, and practicing gratitude are examples of emotional self-care.
Practice education as self-care by pursuing a degree with 杏吧原创.

Why Is Self-Care Important?

Self-care isn鈥檛 just a luxury; it鈥檚 necessary for maintaining our overall well-being and preventing burnout. By engaging in self-care activities, we can effectively manage stress, enhance our physical health, reduce the risk of diseases, and improve our mental clarity. When we practice self-care, we acknowledge and address our personal needs, which is crucial for our happiness. By prioritizing self-care, we can better navigate the challenges of daily life and maintain a .

How Is Education Self-Care?

Another form of self-care that may surprise you is education. Education as self-care involves learning new things that enrich the mind, boost self-esteem, and foster personal growth. By growing knowledge and skills, we gain a sense of accomplishment. Pursuing higher education stimulates our minds, helps reduce stress, and allows us to be creative. Additionally, learning helps us adapt to changes, improve problem-solving abilities, and stay connected with the world around us. Embracing education as a form of self-care ultimately leads to more resilience and fulfillment.

Self-care is essential for nurturing our minds, bodies, and spirits. It lets us lead healthier and more balanced lives. By prioritizing the various areas of self-care鈥攊ncluding our education鈥攚e can equip ourselves with the tools to manage stress, maintain physical health, and enhance our emotional well-being.

Hack-Proof Best Practices for Cybersecurity

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

The security procedures for protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage is vital. Why is cybersecurity so important? Because the world has become digital. From navigating your town to buying products, operating your smart home to accessing your money, it鈥檚 hard to think of any human endeavor that has NOT been digitized鈥攐r that isn鈥檛 under cyberthreat.

Why Is Cybersecurity Important?

Cybercrime is on the rise, in number of attacks, variety of methods, and multiplicity of objectives. Governments wage cyberwar by attacking critical infrastructure. Groups steal data and sell it to the highest bidder on the dark web. Individuals lock you out of your own computer and demand ransom. Risks have multiplied with easy-to-hack mobile devices and smart Internet of Things (IoT) innovations.

Why is cybersecurity important? These common cybersecurity threats are just a sample of the growing problem:

  • Malicious software for spying, planting viruses, logging key strokes, demanding ransom, or harnessing machines into a
  • Denial-of-service attacks that bring down key internet services, accounts, and websites
  • Phishing, spoofing, and other social engineering techniques to gain access to sensitive information and systems
  • Identity attacks where a bad actor masquerades as a bona fide user to break into systems
  • Code injections that add malicious code into systems and apps
  • DNS tunneling that bypasses security measures to take over systems and data
  • IoT attacks that break into connected devices to access the rest of the system

Human actions are responsible for most cyber breaches, either by a malicious insider or by a poorly trained or poorly informed employee or partner making a mistake. Beyond attacks and breaches are the costs associated with failing to comply with an ever-widening array of privacy and cybersecurity laws.

Given the risk, investing in security procedures, systems, safeguards, and frameworks is a priority for organizations large and small, creating a variety of exciting career paths.

Advance your career in a growing field with a BS in Cybersecurity from 杏吧原创.

5 Key Cybersecurity Best Practices

Best practices in cybersecurity are adapting as fast as cybersecurity threats multiply and evolve. The U.S. government鈥檚 offers up-to-date resources for organizations and individuals. The following security procedures and approaches remain core to any cybersecurity operation.

Establish a Network Security Program

Your organization can鈥檛 afford to leave cybersecurity to chance. Best practices in cybersecurity begin with a formal network security program. At their most basic, security procedures in most cybersecurity frameworks cover the steps of identifying risks and vulnerabilities, detecting breaches, effectively responding, and then disclosing and documenting issues for compliance and continuous improvement. The last step is fast and effective recovery from an attack. Many organizations have found that adopting , like NIST or ISO 27001, provides a structure, formal reporting, proven procedures, vital recordkeeping, and help ensuring legal compliance.

Reinforce Your Organization

Second among best practices in cybersecurity is involving people in your network security program. In addition to putting a network security program in place, you鈥檒l need the backing of senior leadership and the engagement of every employee. Next, define and assign information security roles and responsibilities to your team members. Real cybersecurity involves more than the IT department; every person interacting with your data, devices, and network must take cybersecurity training. Each person may have a different level of access and may need to be assigned an identity, password, third-party identification, and more.

Ongoing cybersecurity awareness is a must. Something as simple and ubiquitous as email represents the greatest vulnerability for many companies. A that an employee did not perceive as dangerous was the starting point of more than 75% of targeted cyberattacks. Training employees about such risks is a first-line cyber defense.

Secure Systems and Platforms

When building, buying, or integrating devices and applications, and when creating, manipulating, moving, and storing data, protecting these elements is one of the most important best practices in cybersecurity. Your organization will benefit from having a secure system development life cycle (SDLC) program in place. In addition to making sure everything is working, SDLC processes include formal code reviews, architecture analysis, technical controls, and penetration testing as part of the configuration process.

The vulnerability management plan you develop during this work becomes part of your overarching cybersecurity framework. No digital infrastructure is static. Constant additions and upgrades are necessary, and if no security procedures during configuring and integrating these changes are in place, your organization is vulnerable.

Conduct Third-Party Security Assessments

More IT systems and more parts of IT systems now routinely integrate third-party components rather than custom-building them in house. Your cybersecurity is only as strong as the weakest third-party component, and every one of them adds risks. Out of 100 Fortune 1,000 chief information security officers surveyed by in 2023, 87% have been affected by a third-party cyber incident.

Cybersecurity frameworks all provide specific and comprehensive security procedures for conducting third-party assessments and audits, documenting findings, and addressing issues. If you don鈥檛 include this element in your best practices in cybersecurity, you are practically inviting bad actors into your systems and data.

Stay Vigilant and Adaptive

Staying vigilant is a necessity in the field of cybersecurity. When you have the right frameworks and security procedures in place, you鈥檒l be able to thwart attacks before they start, respond quickly to any incidents, and recover just as fast. Plus, you鈥檒l have the processes and documentation many cybersecurity laws require you to provide, mitigating the threat of fines and penalties.

Still, the best system will quickly fall behind if you don鈥檛 stay up to date on best practices in cybersecurity and regularly update your cybersecurity strategies and measures. Join the conversation at the National Cybersecurity Institute at 杏吧原创, a national center of academic excellence tied to many of the leading national agencies.

Cybersecurity companies and service providers are constantly on the hunt for qualified talent. Studies point to high demand for people in these roles, with of people with cybersecurity knowledge and skills as one of their biggest challenges. Even though global employment in this sector reached in 2023, the industry faces significant workforce shortfalls.

Earning a bachelor鈥檚 in cybersecurity gives you the knowledge and credentials you need to prosper in any career in cybersecurity. Certificate programs like Ethical Hacker and IT Security Specialist, offered through Excelsior鈥檚 partnership with , can also help you advance your skills and your career while earning you credit toward your Excelsior degree. Take a step toward the front line of cyber defense and contact Admissions today.

What Is the Role of AI in Cybersecurity?

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

As cyberthreats become more sophisticated and pervasive, the ability of artificial intelligence (AI) to process data, identify patterns, and automate responses is proving indispensable. From enhancing threat detection and prevention to improving security operations, AI transforms how organizations protect their digital assets. Let鈥檚 explore some of the benefits and some of the drawbacks of this technology.

What Are Some Benefits of AI in Cybersecurity?

Many organizations have already harnessed the power of AI for their business needs. The benefits of AI in cybersecurity include:

  • . AI can identify patterns, anomalies, and emerging threats with remarkable accuracy. This allows for the early detection of sophisticated attacks often missed by traditional methods. AI can automate responses to threats, such as blocking malicious traffic, isolating compromised devices, and sending alerts, thereby saving time and minimizing data breaches.
  • Automated processes. AI learns from historical data and adapts to new information, quickly identifying, containing, and remediating breaches. This automation reduces human intervention and is crucial for continuous monitoring, streamlined patch management, compliance monitoring, and efficient incident response.
  • AI enables cybersecurity software to learn from past experiences, improving over time by identifying trends and connecting past incidents with threat intelligence. These algorithms can also analyze password patterns to detect weak or easily guessable passwords, alerting employees to enhance security.
  • Reduced human error. Tasks that are time-consuming and prone to human error can be streamlined by AI, which minimizes typos and formatting mistakes in manually entered data. AI can also detect anomalies and clues in data that human analysts might overlook. Additionally, AI reduces human biases in cybersecurity analysis.
  • High data analysis capacity. AI can handle and analyze mass amounts of data, identifying patterns and trends indicative of security threats. AI鈥檚 high data processing capacity allows for continuous automated analysis and 24/7 security monitoring.
  • Improved user experience. advances customer support with interactive chat options for efficient feedback collection. It also enhances the usability of various cybersecurity tools and features, increasing their acceptance and effectiveness.
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What Are Some Challenges for AI in Cybersecurity?

While there are many benefits to using artificial intelligence, we shouldn鈥檛 be automating our systems and heading for monthslong vacations just yet. There are many limits to AI that we should be aware of. Some of these limitations include:

  • Absence of human judgment. No matter how sophisticated or intelligent AI becomes, it will only comprise data and algorithms. It notoriously lacks human judgment and creativity, and without this piece of humanity, you run the risk of problems like systemic bias and the kind of cold unaccountability that could affect a business鈥檚 security and reputation.
  • AI鈥檚 ability to analyze vast amounts of data can lead to privacy invasions, as sensitive information might be accessed or misused. Bias in AI algorithms can result in unfair or discriminatory outcomes. Overreliance on AI can lead to complacency, and cyber criminals could exploit these technologies for malicious purposes. Automating cybersecurity tasks through AI may also result in job displacement for cybersecurity professionals.
  • Inability to keep up with threats. Although AI鈥檚 defensive capabilities are highly advanced, cybercriminals develop new and dangerous methods of cyberattack every day. Cybercriminals have even started using AI for their own tactics, like new malware strains and phishing attacks, making it harder than ever to spot a cybercrime. Cybersecurity professionals need to stay up to date to make sure AI is ready to stop these cybercriminals before they strike.
  • False positives. AI-based systems can become overwhelmed when false positives happen. This means an alert incorrectly indicates a problem or vulnerability in the organization鈥檚 system. When this happens, AI systems don鈥檛 have the proper context or history to analyze them correctly, so IT teams cannot distinguish real from fake threats.
  • Cost. AI often requires special hardware, software, professional expertise, and training. This all makes AI solutions expensive, especially for smaller businesses.
  • Unemployment. Some critics of AI-based solutions , putting many IT professionals out of jobs. Chatbots and robots, for instance, are also used in human resources to respond to customer questions. Although not always the case, this can mean fewer jobs for many people.

How Is Artificial Intelligence Used in Cyberattacks?

Although many use AI for legitimate business purposes, others use it for cybercrime. Cybercriminals are using artificial intelligence to enhance their cyberattacks on corporations and individuals. They鈥檙e able to do this in a variety of ways because AI uses machine learning. Machine learning allows systems to learn from previous data and improve performance. Simply put, AI 鈥渓earns鈥� using large amounts of data to recognize patterns. Hackers and cybercriminals use AI in automated attacks, phishing and social engineering attacks, deepfake technology, malware, data mining, password cracking, and more. It amounts to a technological arms race between white hats and black hats, putting the onus on cybersecurity professionals to constantly keep up on the latest developments and stay ever vigilant in their application.

CISA鈥檚 Roadmap

To combat cybercriminals鈥� dangerous use of AI and to explore and enhance its benefits, the developed a CISA鈥檚 plan covers five lines of effort:

  1. Responsibly use AI to support CISA鈥檚 mission.
  2. Assure AI systems.
  3. Protect critical infrastructure from malicious use of AI.
  4. Collaborate with the interagency, international partners, and the public.
  5. Expand AI expertise in the U.S. workforce.

How Can You Prevent Cybercrime?

If you want to do your part to help prevent the criminal use of technology, here are a few tips:

  • Use strong passwords.
  • Use multifactor authentication.
  • Keep your software up to date.
  • Enable privacy settings.
  • Use antivirus software.
  • Use a firewall.
  • Back up your important data.

Technology is only going to continue to advance. Artificial intelligence is one of the areas that will continue to see rapid developments. To stay ahead of criminals wishing to use this technology for malicious reasons and to explore all the benefits AI can provide, we must constantly keep up to date with our rapidly changing technological world. A degree in cybersecurity can provide you with the foundation to enter this dynamic field and propel you to make advancements that can benefit individuals and society at large.

The Impact of Nursing Technology in Health Care

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

How Has Technology Changed Nursing?

In an era where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, it’s only natural that the health care sector should experience transformations driven by technological advancements. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to telemedicine and wearable devices, technology is reshaping how we diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions. This integration of technology enhances the efficiency and accuracy of medical care and improves access to health services, empowering patients and health care providers.

Nursing technology has changed the world of health care in sweeping ways, including:

  • Improving workflow and reducing burnout. Nurses like stocking supplies, scheduling, billing, and documenting patient information. Technology can make collecting information more streamlined and less time-consuming. Nurses can concentrate on more critical tasks, and this, of course, leads to less work. And less work leads to less burnout.
  • Streamlining communication and allowing greater access to care. New communication technology has helped nursing teams interact with patients more efficiently and effectively, especially if patients are in rural areas and do not normally have access to health care services. Nurses can consult with patients remotely, make assessments, monitor vital signs, and keep in more timely contact.
  • Improving patient outcomes. Technology is beneficial to patients for many reasons. For instance, with electronic software, patients can gain quicker and more efficient access to their medical records. And technology helps prevent and reduce medication errors and mistakes, enhancing patient safety. Plus, technology allows patients to take an active role in their health by giving them access to their health records and health providers through electronic patient portals and health apps. Easier communication with health care providers makes it easier for patients to engage in their health, improving their outcomes.

Indeed, the field has changed dramatically over the past generation in all aspects, but some specific areas have particularly been affected by advances in nursing technology, specifically telenursing, electronic advancements, portable devices, and smart tools.

Prepare for the future of nursing with a degree from 杏吧原创

Telenursing

Telenursing, or telemedicine or telehealth, became more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic to give patients more access to their health care providers. It refers to virtual appointments using internet-based video calls conducted with a computer, tablet, or smartphone. One of the main advantages of this type of visit is preventing contagious patients from spreading their illness to others. It鈥檚 also helpful for patients who might have mobility issues or who live far away from their providers. Another benefit to telenursing is that these visits are easier to schedule and have lower costs because they鈥檙e conducted in the patient鈥檚 home.

Electronic Advancements

Technology is quickly becoming an invaluable tool for nurses in managing data. , for instance, helps reduce time-consuming tasks, improves the organization of electronic medical records, and can help nurses collaborate and communicate better with other team members (there鈥檚 even an ). And help reduce errors and improve patient safety, assisting health care providers with prescribing, administering, reviewing, and disposing of medications as well as reducing the risk of errors caused by illegible handwriting and incorrect orders.

Portable Devices

Handheld digital devices like mobile computers, tablets, and smartphones, as well as , offer greater mobility for nurses and other health care team members. These portable devices allow health care professionals to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively, collecting and sharing real-time patient data and streamlining the process of collecting information and offering on-the-spot patient care.

Smart Tools

Nurses carry out a wide range of duties, and with the nursing shortage, it鈥檚 harder than ever for them to tackle everything on their to-do list. Enter mobile robotics. , including greeting patients, conducting contactless triage interviews in the ER, and delivering lab specimens or medications. Augmented reality technology like smart glasses can help nurses access patient information hands-free, improving workflow and reducing medical errors. uses technology to transmit real-time health data between patients and providers. Examples of RPM devices include digital blood pressure monitors, heart monitors, pedometers, and pulse oximeters. RPMs give patients greater peace of mind and allow for fewer officer visits. They also offer more individualized patient-provider interactions.

Can Nurses Be Replaced by Technology?

With all these technological advances in the health care industry, you may be wondering whether technology will replace nurses. Although technology poses no risk of replacing nurses soon, nurses and other medical professionals will continue incorporating technology into their daily routines. Experts do not always agree on the future of health care, yet one thing is for sure: Nurses will continue using advanced technology to see more patients daily, administer medications more efficiently, and monitor conditions with greater confidence.

If using state-of-the-art technology to provide first-class patient care sounds appealing to you, a career as a nurse might be in your future. Earning your nursing degree is the first step. If you want to explore the world of technology and nursing, consider becoming a nursing informaticist. You could be on your way to a rewarding career blending technology and high-quality patient care.

Chess with the Chaplain: How Kimberly Dove Changes Young Lives One Move at a Time

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Chess is a complex game involving strategic planning, tactics, and foresight as players try to control the board and ultimately checkmate their opponent. It鈥檚 a worldwide competitive sport, but it can also be a tool for cognitive development and to instill valuable lessons in young minds.

Kimberly Dove, chaplain at the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility (IRJCF), in Massillon, Ohio, uses chess to help young people change the course of their futures and leverages her position to make sure everyone she oversees gets the care they deserve. Dove, who earned her Associate in Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior in 2017 and just earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in June, has long garnered the praise of co-workers and the young people in her programs for her innovation and dedication鈥攁nd in 2023, she was recognized by the Ohio Department of Youth Services, as well.

Life Lessons from a Chessboard

At IRJCF, Dove uses chess to help inmates with critical thinking skills and in making strategic decisions that can be applied to life experiences. After working with the U.S. Chess Federation and a neighboring county using a similar tool, she applied her program to youths with mental health issues, who were in gangs, or who had other aggressive issues.

鈥淎s it progresses, [the young people] learn at a deeper level; we鈥檒l put a clock against them while they鈥檙e playing. And what they find out is that they can play better without the clock against them. Because when the clock is against them, they make moves that they didn鈥檛 have time to think about,鈥� explains Dove. Her participants learn the value of making thought-out choices鈥攁nd how one hasty decision can put you in checkmate. This revelation can transform a young person鈥檚 worldview.

Dove鈥檚 favorite part about the program is when, six months later, she meets a former inmate, and they express to her how much her program worked for them. In fact, her chess program is so successful that she has a waitlist.

鈥淚 Need to Get into Prison鈥�

But Dove doesn鈥檛 just organize chess matches. Her job as chaplain is critical in making sure inmates have access to the religious resources they need. She has extensive knowledge of religious laws and makes sure inmates have their prayer rugs, rosary beads, or other religious items. Dove is also responsible for knowing what鈥檚 trending in prisons among the gangs. She needs to know, for example, what colors and codes they use so she can help thwart criminal activity. 鈥淧eople have no idea what we do to keep everyone safe,鈥� she adds, noting that her job as a chaplain is not widely understood.

Many young people are born into gangs, so it鈥檚 difficult to dissuade them from becoming entrenched in the lifestyle, Dove says. Instead, the best way to prevent gang association is by preventing youths from being active in them to begin with. 鈥淲e want to use a prevention method to make [youths] become nonactive,鈥� she says. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 what we have to teach them.鈥�

Dove鈥檚 dedication to helping others stems back to her childhood. Although she had a stable and supportive home environment, she knew that many other children her age did not. Dove recalls: 鈥淚 still was exposed to some of the kids that didn鈥檛 have the home life I had. 鈥� I just had something in my heart for disadvantage. I would befriend those youths and protect those youths and take them home and ask Mom to feed them.鈥�

Her devotion to helping the less fortunate led her to pursue social work, and eventually, she began working with at-risk youths in city schools. Many of these young people didn鈥檛 benefit from traditional school because of all the time spent in and out of courtrooms. It led Dove to make a career decision: 鈥淒oing that, I found out that a lot of the reasons that [the young people] had challenges was because of parenting. Going further, the parents had spent a number [of years] in prison, some county, and I just made this link that if I鈥檓 going to help these youth, 鈥� I need to get into prison.鈥�

Find your passion for justice with a BS in Criminal Justice from 杏吧原创.

Finding Excelsior鈥攁nd Success

Dove changed her career from social work to criminal justice and volunteered within the prison system communities. This was also when she discovered 杏吧原创 (then College). The flexibility of the online programs was invaluable to Dove while working in the prison system, where she sometimes worked long hours and didn鈥檛 always have access to the internet. It was invaluable to Dove that Excelsior advisors and staff made her feel like part of a community where she could grow. She recalls the welcoming feeling of Excelsior: 鈥淭he advisors work well with me. 鈥� I鈥檝e gone to other schools, and I did not get what I was able to get as far as feeling that they had embraced me and that they were holding me up.鈥�

Being able to use knowledge and experiences she picked up in her courses directly in her work was also a benefit for Dove. In fact, one of her instructors was a police officer and shared with Dove similar experiences about dealing with aggressive offenders. She enjoyed that her instructors brought this real-life career experience with them to their classrooms. 鈥淲hat was amazing to me is that they weren鈥檛 just teachers, professors, but they actually had worked in these fields. So not only were they teaching us from the book, but they were teaching us by experience,鈥� she says.

Dove鈥檚 success with young people at Indian River and with incarcerated men and women in Ohio鈥檚 penitentiary system drew the attention of her agency, the Ohio Department of Youth Services, who awarded her the facility鈥檚 Employee of the Year Award in April 2023. In October 2023, she also participated in the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ), where she presented about gang violence and the best way to discourage youths from joining gangs.

A Legacy Measured in Hearts, Minds, and Souls

With her degrees in hand, Dove hopes to move into a more governmental role. 鈥淚 hope to eventually start working on policies. I鈥檓 huge on policies. Some of them contradict one another, and they need to be rewritten in some areas,鈥� she says. She feels many laws regarding incarceration and the justice system in general need to be adjusted. Dove hopes to be the person to do it.

With regard to her legacy, Dove wants her work to benefit the young people she works with for their entire lives. She remembers working with a man who was incarcerated for 36 years before DNA exonerated him and inviting him to speak at a conference several years ago. The youths in the audience were so touched by his story that many dropped to their knees, crying.

Sometimes the impact of Dove鈥檚 work can be that visceral. 鈥淚 believe that they鈥檒l tell their children, 鈥業f it hadn鈥檛 been for that Chaplain Dove and all the programs and all the other people, you probably wouldn鈥檛 be here, because I would have been doing life in prison.鈥欌��

More from Kimberly Dove

What is most rewarding about your job?

鈥淚 see change. I see someone that without those programs would probably be back in [a detention facility], but with the support, it gives them drive to want to keep moving forward and not step backwards.鈥�

What would you tell somebody who wanted to go into criminal justice but didn’t know where to start?

鈥淚 would probably probe them a little bit to see why they want to go into it, because that makes all the difference. Because you鈥檙e going to have so many challenges. And if it鈥檚 something external, you鈥檙e not going to make it. If you鈥檙e doing it because everybody else did it or it鈥檚 trending, you鈥檙e not going to make it. It has to be something deeper on the inside.鈥�

What’s the Difference Between Cybersecurity Master鈥檚 and Bachelor鈥檚 Degrees?

Posted on by Excelsior Staff

If you鈥檙e considering a career in security management, you might want to earn a cybersecurity master鈥檚 degree. With cyberattacks growing in number and complexity, demand for qualified people remains high. If you have a bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, technology, or any hard science, you likely have the foundation you need to pursue a master鈥檚 in the field, especially if you have some relevant work experience. Here, explore what you can do with the degree and what you will learn in a typical cybersecurity master鈥檚 program.

What Can You Do with a Cybersecurity Master鈥檚 Degree?

Having a bachelor鈥檚 or master鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity opens doors to many exciting .

A bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity is a four-year undergraduate degree that gives you a foundation of key security management concepts and a technical understanding of the most common types of cyberattacks, risk management, governance and compliance, and computer forensics, along with digital fundamentals in programming, cloud computing, operating systems, networks, and system administration. Most programs include general education classes in the humanities, science, math, and communications. You will be prepared for entry-level positions and can rise through middle management with this degree.

If you would like to move into upper management and even to eventually become a chief information security officer (CISO), or if you want to specialize in a specific cybersecurity practice area, you鈥檒l want to earn your cybersecurity master鈥檚 degree. The degree prepares you for specialized cybersecurity jobs, cybersecurity management positions, and consulting roles. In all of them, you have opportunities with a higher earning potential. Example roles, in addition to becoming a CISO, include:

Level up your career with a degree in cybersecurity from 杏吧原创.

What Will You Learn in a Cybersecurity Master鈥檚 Program?

Typical cybersecurity master鈥檚 degrees incorporate classes in leadership, talent management, and advanced courses related to cybersecurity. You鈥檒l study network and communication security, crime prevention and post event forensics, expanded legal and compliance issues, and computer security technologies, principles, and processes in depth.

Cybersecurity has become a critical element in business operations, government functions, and our infrastructure, with implications for national security. Protecting vital systems and data needs more than technologies and processes鈥攊t needs qualified people.

You can learn more about career and educational opportunities in the field at the National Cybersecurity Institute at 杏吧原创, which brings experts from government, industry, and academia together to promote a stronger cybersecurity workforce and informed leaders for furthering cybersecurity practice in areas such as critical infrastructure, finance, national defense, and health care.

Cyberattacks show no sign of letting up. Indeed, as more of our world is digitized and connected, the threats only grow. And the need for qualified security management and cybersecurity technical expertise is growing along with the threats. Earning your cybersecurity master鈥檚 prepares you for a career on the front lines of protecting vital information and systems鈥攁long with everyone who depends on them.