Career Spotlight: Medical Records Manager

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

Medical professionals know that the best care comes from a clean environment. Staff constantly check to make sure that everything providers and patients might touch is organized and sterile.

While medical records managers may not interact directly with patients, they also play an important part in keeping the medical system running cleanly鈥攂y practicing good data hygiene. Dirty data, just like a dirty surface, can be hazardous to your health and result in wrong diagnoses, incorrect medications, and improper treatment plans.

Medical records professionals work behind the scenes in health care facilities and anywhere else patient data is kept. They serve as a link between providers, clients, and patients and are the gatekeepers to your protected health information.

Medical records management is a strong career choice for someone looking to put a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in health care management to work and break into the administrative and informatics side of health care.

Build a career in the business side of the health sciences with a BS in Health Care Management.

Medical Records Manager Job Description

Doctors count on having an accurate record of a patient鈥檚 health and health care history to make decisions about medications, tests, and other medical steps. Patients need to know their sensitive information is secure, accurate, and accessible to any provider they visit, and insurance companies rely on medical records to keep a detailed account of what care a patient has received and what it has cost. Keeping track of it all are medical records managers.

Years ago, this process used to be done with rooms filled with paper folders and files, but today, medical records are entirely electronic and medical records managers are responsible for managing the complex technology systems and products that keep them organized.

Most medical records manager positions are in large-scale health care facilities like hospitals, but they can also be found in physician鈥檚 offices, nursing homes, home health agencies, mental health facilities, and public health agencies. Organizations you might not expect to handle patient data such as pharmaceutical companies, law and insurance firms, and health product vendors employ medical records managers as well.

Good communication skills and attention to detail is a must in this position. As a medical records manager, you鈥檒l be working with and possibly supervising a staff of medical billing and coding personnel to make sure sensitive medical records are maintained correctly.

You鈥檒l be responsible for developing, maintaining, and evaluating existing systems, creating reports, and dealing with records requests. Security is essential for anything having to do with medical records, so you will also need a solid understanding of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) regulations to ensure that you comply with all financial, legal, or administrative requirements.

Medical Records Manager Education Requirements

To pursue a career as a medical records manager, you need at least a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in health sciences and ideally some previous experience in medical billing or coding.

A bachelor’s degree in health care management gives you in-depth knowledge of practical approaches to the business side of health care as well as other skills you鈥檒l need to advance your career, such as departmental budget preparation, health insurance payment and reimbursement systems, financial reporting, health regulation compliance, electronic documentation, and digital data systems.

Specialized certifications such as the or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA庐) credentials from the are also recommended for boosting your career.

Additionally, you can advance your medical records manager career by pursuing certain other certifications through Excelsior鈥檚 partnership with . You may be eligible to receive credit for these special industry certifications, which can help you gain workforce skills and earn your degree聽sooner.

Medical Records Manager Salary

Salary.com reports that the average salary range of a medical records manager falls between $81,048 and $116,769 but can vary depending on education, certification, and years of experience.

The field of medical records management continues to expand along with other related jobs in health data and health care informatics. Technology is always changing, and more of these data-driven health care professionals are needed to keep pace.

If you鈥檙e interested in starting your career as a medical records manager or want to explore more growing careers in the health sciences, contact an Excelsior admissions counselor to start a conversation about how to reach your goals.

Native American Heritage Month

Posted on by Pamela Jimenez

The History of Native American Heritage Month

November commemorates Native American Heritage Month, also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, and November 26 is proclaimed Native American Heritage Day. In 1986, President Reagan proclaimed November 23-30 as American Indian Week, which would typically fall alongside Thanksgiving in the United States. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (including “Native American Heritage Month” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”), have been issued each year since 1994. This is a time to honor the contributions of the people who were the first inhabitants of North America. It is also a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native people.

Why is Native American Heritage Month Important?

Despite a harrowing history marked by unjust federal policies of assimilation and termination, American Indian and Alaska Native peoples have persevered. Currently, about 6.79 million Native Americans in the United States face extraordinary challenges including social, cultural, economic, and physical. Patterns of struggle uniquely and negatively impact Native American communities and families. While it is essential to be positive and hopeful about the future for Native Americans, it is also important to have a genuine and clear understanding of the challenges and struggles of Indigenous people individually and collectively. During this heritage month and beyond, let us take the time to honor the Native American community by educating ourselves and the public about the tribes, raising awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and presently, and learning about how tribal citizens have worked to overcome these challenges. We invite you to explore the links below and learn more about Indigenous culture, life, and struggles.

Learn more about Native American Heritage Month





http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/native-american-heritage-month

Thanksgiving

Posted on by Pamela Jimenez

Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday that is based on the 1621 Plymouth colonist and the Wampanoag people sharing an autumn harvest feast that subsequently became the first Thanksgiving celebration in the colonies. For the Native Americans, the assembly of the Wampanoag people and English settlers had more to do with political alliances, diplomacy, and a pursuit of peace. While Americans share a meal and give thanks for family, friends, and community, the United American Indians of New England recognize it as a National Day of Mourning for Native Americans and their allies.

As a holiday, Thanksgiving originates from the from the Native American philosophy of giving without expecting anything in return. During this meal, the Wampanoag people shared their land, food, and knowledge of the environment with the English. The Wampanoag tribe not only provided the food, but also the teachings of agriculture and hunting. Corn, beans, wild rice, and turkey are some of the foods introduced by Native Americans.

This time of year, the two holidays of Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Day, give us the opportunity to reflect on our collective history and to celebrate the beauty, strength, and resilience of the Native tribes of North America. The idea of giving thanks is central to Native heritage and culture and in this way, Thanksgiving is a chance for all to appreciate family, community, and the riches of the land.

Recommended Resources for Learning more:



Career Spotlight: Power System Operator

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

Do you like problem solving, figuring out how things work, and working with computers? Maybe being a power system operator is the right job for you. A power system operator, also known as a power plant operator, is someone who manages a power plant facility. They keep the power plant running and ensure the facility is safe and functioning properly.

Let鈥檚 dig a little deeper to see if a power system operator lines up with your career goals.

Power System Operator Job Description

Power system operators work in a variety of power plants, including natural gas-powered electric, nuclear electric, hydroelectric, coal-powered electric, and solar-powered electric, but they may also work in manufacturing plants, hospitals, universities, and government organizations.

Power system operators operate switchboards and other electrical equipment in highly advanced control centers to maintain and manage the distribution of electrical power throughout a transmission network. In other words, they are responsible for making sure electricity gets to the appropriate consumers.

Duties of a Power System Operator

Power system operators have a variety of responsibilities and duties depending upon where they work. They may perform some or all of the following:

  • Control and direct the transmission of electricity to meet distribution demands
  • Monitor power-generating equipment fueled by coal, gas, nuclear, wind, or other energy resources
  • Ensure constant flow of electricity to avoid blackouts
  • Check equipment to monitor pressure, temperature, and vibration
  • Oversee maintenance personnel
  • Monitor and visually inspect station instruments, meters, and alarms
  • Perform maintenance on machines
  • Start or stop generator turbines when necessary
  • Complete and maintain station records, logs, and reports
  • Locate and isolate system problems

Skills Needed to be a Power System Operator

You may have guessed that one of the top skills needed to be a successful power system operator is attention to detail because a power system operator is in charge of maintaining a whole power grid. There are other important skills you should possess, too.

  • Be in good physical condition. As a power plant operator, you may be required to carry out a variety of physical activities, from crouching, reaching, climbing, and more. It would be beneficial, then, to make sure you are in good shape.
  • Possess good communication skills. Although you may work alone some of the time, you will also interact with other team members to install new generators, upgrade systems, and carry out daily tasks. You may also need to communicate technical information to management, consumers, and stakeholders, so being a good communicator is crucial.
  • Possess strong technical abilities. As a power system operator, you may need technical skills to understand how a power plant runs and operates. Your technical abilities may include an aptitude for math and mechanical and technological knowledge so you can properly perform your duties.
  • Capable of patience and focus. Power system operators often must monitor gauges, dials, and other electrical equipment to make sure the plant is running properly. Having strict patience and a strong ability to focus can make monitoring various equipment easier and can help minimize distractions.

How to Become a Power System Operator

Does a power system operator job sound intriguing? Well, before you start applying for any openings, there are requirements you should be aware of if you want to pursue this career.

Although it is possible to become a power system operator with just a high school degree, most companies prefer you to have at least an associate degree. Still others prefer a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚. 杏吧原创鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology program prepares students for technical positions in the nuclear industry. The ABET-accredited program provides knowledge in areas such as reactor operations, health physics, quality assurance, chemistry, and instrumentation and control related to the nuclear engineering technology field.

In addition, to work in a power plant, you must pass a background check as well as drug and alcohol screenings. Some states also require workers to be licensed as engineers or firefighters.

Depending upon where you work, you may also need to obtain other certificates or licenses, so it鈥檚 important to do your research when you are looking for a job.

Power System Operator Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that as of 2021, the median annual wage for power system operators and similar occupations was $94,790. The BLS predicts employment in this career to decline 15 percent between 2021 and 2031. Despite this, about 3,200 openings are projected each year over the next decade, so this is still a career option to pursue if you鈥檙e interested in power plants, computers, and making sure things work correctly.

Careers in Cyber: SOC Analyst

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

Are you interested in joining the growing field of cybersecurity and information technology but are not sure where to start? If this sounds like you, a security operations center (SOC) analyst might just be for you!

What Is a SOC Analyst?

Specific cybersecurity organizations have security operation centers that are charged with monitoring and protecting an organization鈥檚 assets. Within these centers are SOC analysts. They investigate potential cyberattacks, while examining traffic and user logs. SOC analysts work as a team, using a network of sensors, monitoring equipment, and security tools to stop potential cyberattacks. Between the entire team, SOC analysts provide 24-hour, 7-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year protection and immediate response capabilities. Each analyst might have a specific role or have many responsibilities, depending on the organization where they are employed. SOC analysts鈥� key roles can include:

  • Threat detection
  • Incident response and reporting
  • Research and compliance
  • Network monitoring

Job duties in any of these roles can include:

  • Monitoring an organization’s networks for security breaches
  • Investigating when cyberattacks occur
  • Using software to protect sensitive information (firewalls, data encryption programs, etc.)
  • Researching the latest information technology trends
  • Ensuring end users have what they need to install and learn about new security products and procedures
  • Developing best practices for their organization and making recommendations to leadership for security enhancements
Start your career defending against cyberattacks with a cybersecurity degree from Excelsior.

How to Become a SOC Analyst

Entry-Level SOC Analyst: Education Requirements

A position as a SOC analyst is perfect for someone trying to enter the field of cybersecurity and passionate about security, data sensitivity, and computers. While you do not need a degree for an entry-level position, it does not hurt to have one! A degree in cybersecurity can show that you are committed, focused, and ready to take on the job of an SOC analyst. It also will set you apart from other candidates for promotions and management-level positions.

SOC Analyst Certifications

In addition to a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, there are many certification programs that may be of interest to someone looking to get into the field. A quick Google search shows what certifications hiring managers look for depending on the field of your organization. A few examples of the top security analyst certifications are Security+, CySA+, Certified Information Systems Auditor, and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control. While these are not required, it does show hiring managers that you are able to retain information, and have a vested interest in the field.

Skills of a SOC Analyst

Typically, hiring managers look for SOC analysts who have some knowledge of computer systems, software, and networks. Some of these skills can include:

  • Coding and database languages
  • Cybersecurity best practices, techniques, and tools
  • Network concepts

Hiring managers also look for candidates who show they have strong:

  • Critical thinking skills
  • Communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Don鈥檛 let these scientific terms scare you! If you are just starting out, an entry-level position as a SOC analyst provides on-the-job training, and managers will encourage you to gain the necessary certifications to succeed.

SOC Analyst Salary

Employment for SOC analysts is expected to grow 35 percent by 2031, which is much faster than the average for all other occupations. With the continued growth of cyberattacks, analysts are needed more than ever. They will be part of the people who create innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing sensitive information.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported the median annual wage for SOC analysts was $102,600 in 2021. Most salaries vary based on the industry in which you are employed. The top three highest paid industries for SOC analysts are information technology, finance and insurance, and business management.

Most SOC analysts work full-time, as SOC offices are never closed. Working overtime and remotely are common in this field. Don鈥檛 wait鈥攕tart your degree in cybersecurity today to begin your journey as a SOC analyst!

Q&A with Nancy Bellucci

Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

杏吧原创 Nancy Bellucci

Nancy Bellucci is a faculty program director with 杏吧原创鈥檚 graduate nursing program. She has been with Excelsior since July 2021 overseeing faculty and courses in both 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 and 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 nursing programs.

Bellucci earned a PhD in nursing education from Capella University, and 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 and 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degrees in nursing education from Thomas Edison State College. She holds a certificate in nursing education from Thomas Edison State College and is a certified nurse educator (NLN). Bellucci has held multiple clinical nursing and academic nursing positions since becoming a nurse in 2006. She has taught nursing leadership, health care policy and finance, nursing informatics, evidence-based practice, capstone courses, and professional roles and values

Bellucci has written many articles for the American Nurses Association, NurseTogether, RN Journal, dailynurse.com, and Nurse.com. She has presented original research and other presentations at the National League for Nursing鈥檚 Education Summit, the Sigma Theta Tau International Conference on Healthy Work Environments, and the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) National Summit.

At Excelsior, Bellucci oversees the nursing informatics, research, and Capstone courses for the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 in nursing program and the courses in the Master of Science Nursing Informatics program.

We asked Bellucci about her career, nursing Capstone courses, and takeaways for Excelsior students in the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 and 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 in nursing programs. Check out her answers below.

Q&A with Nancy Bellucci

Q: Can you briefly describe your nursing career?
A: I was a nurse starting in 2006. I came into nursing late in life; I had already had a full career working in an office and in our boat dealership. We sold our business, and a retired nurse mentioned, 鈥淲hy don’t you be a nurse?鈥� So the journey began there.

Q: What topics or areas of nursing do you have expertise in?
A: I started out in med-surg nursing and then worked my way into the operating room where I scrubbed in and did all kinds of interesting surgeries. From there, I became a clinical development specialist and oversaw eight surgical units with 144 staff members and did all their clinical education. Then I got involved in nursing academics and have been here ever since.

Q: What is your role at Excelsior?
A: I鈥檓 a faculty program director. So what that means is I not only help develop our faculty who teach, but also help to do curriculum design, which I鈥檓 passionate about. I try to bring that real-world experience into the online setting鈥 give back to nursing; I get to give my expertise.

Q: What can students expect from the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 Capstone course you teach?
A: We鈥檝e just redeveloped the Capstone for the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 program, and we鈥檝e done it in a way that helps students build a quality improvement project. They take a topic that they鈥檙e passionate about鈥攕omething that they think needs to be changed in the clinical setting鈥攁nd they work through with a mentor who they choose, to develop that plan incrementally over the course of 15 weeks. And then hopefully many of the students that I鈥檓 teaching right now have implemented their plan and are starting to see the benefits of their voice in the creation of process and policy change.

Q: What about the 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 in nursing informatics Capstone?
A: Currently I鈥檓 recreating the nursing informatics Capstone. It鈥檚 very similar to the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 Capstone in that it鈥檚 rigorous鈥�15 weeks. We scaffold the assignments, meaning that the student has to build a systems plan as the project manager and a leader because nursing informatics isn鈥檛 just about informatics or health information, it鈥檚 about leading a project, working on interprofessional teams, collaborating with one another, and creating lasting change. So just as you see in the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 Capstone, and all of our 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 Capstones, we are working to help students select a topic and decide how they want to attempt to create the change. So we鈥檙e really working to help them build a final product that they can use in the real world.

Q: What do you hope students will take away from the 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 and 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 in nursing programs?
A: We鈥檙e in really challenging times in nursing. Nurses are now having to get a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree, and it鈥檚 become a requirement of work where they can鈥檛 progress in their profession unless they have one鈥o I hope that they take away from this that it鈥檚 not just to have to鈥攊t鈥檚 yours. I mean you own it. It鈥檚 your degree, no one can take it from you, and it still should be that badge of honor. And for the 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚, I hope that you realize that you can create change, you can promote others, you can promote yourself; you can be a benefit to nursing.

杏吧原创 Ribbon Cutting and Launch of the Center for Social Justice

Posted on by Erin Coufal

Albany, New York 鈥� 杏吧原创 hosts a ribbon cutting and reception on Wednesday, November 16, to celebrate the change from College to University and launch Excelsior鈥檚 Center for Social Justice.

鈥淭his is an exciting time for 杏吧原创, our faculty and staff, our students, and our community,鈥� said David Schejbal, PhD, president of . 鈥淎lthough the name change became official on August 1, being able to celebrate with our Excelsior family is incredibly special. Our celebration is two-fold as we also launch Excelsior鈥檚 Center for Social Justice and solidify the justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work that has always been an essential part of Excelsior.鈥�

The transition to a university recognizes Excelsior鈥檚 commitment to meeting opportunities for delivering education and the changing needs of adult learners. For more than 50 years, Excelsior has contributed 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.

In the past, Excelsior has experienced name changes and each change offered benefits unique to our students and academics. Becoming a university is the next step in Excelsior鈥檚 evolution and will provide a platform to continue to serve adult students in broader ways. Students and alumni will benefit from the growing prestige of 杏吧原创, and we will use this as an opportunity to connect, re-engage, and grow our Excelsior community.

鈥淭he purpose of the Center for Social Justice is to elevate the University as a model that embraces diversity to challenge the status quo and impact students and our communities,鈥� said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, founding director of the Center for Social Justice and chief diversity officer. 鈥淚n doing so, we can aim to create a just world focused on equity, access, and human rights. We are excited for the opportunities that this center will open for our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the overall Excelsior community.鈥�

Excelsior鈥檚 investment in social justice will create a platform for meaningful dialogue as an asset to the organization鈥檚 decision-making and performance, as an opportunity to enhance underprivileged students鈥� access to higher education, and a conduit for all students鈥� intercultural development.

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B-roll video:

Media Contact 杏吧原创:

Erin Coufal, ecoufal@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8498

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.

8 In-Demand Allied Health Careers

Posted on by Caitlin Abram

If you鈥檙e not already working in health care, the term 鈥渁llied health鈥� might be new to you. But with every visit to a doctor, dentist, or specialist, you鈥檝e surely encountered one or more of these essential health care professionals.

If health care is the goal for your next move, allied health jobs are a great place to start or grow your career. We鈥檒l break down what allied health is, what you need to break into the field, and eight of the most in-demand careers.

What Is the Allied Health Field?

Careers that are included as part of the allied health field have different roles than those of a doctor or nurse but operate together as part of a team in the pursuit of patient care.

The Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) defines allied health professionals as those being 鈥溾�nvolved with the delivery of health or related services pertaining to the identification, evaluation and prevention of diseases and disorders; dietary and nutrition services; rehabilitation and health systems management, among others.鈥�

Examples of common allied health job titles include: dental hygienists, sonographers, dietitians, medical technologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, radiographers, respiratory therapists, and speech language pathologists just to name a few.

The need for health care professionals is growing by the year, and the ASAHP estimates that around 60 percent of the U.S. health care workforce could be classified as allied health.

Earn your BS in Health Sciences and jump-start your allied heath career today.

8 In-Demand Allied Health Careers

Medical Coders

Medical coders work in hospitals, clinics, outpatient facilities and doctor鈥檚 offices to communicate with insurance companies. The medical coder interprets patient files and updates them with medical codes. They analyze all parts of a patient鈥檚 file, including tests, consultations, in-office procedures, and medications. Learn more about how to become a medical coder.

Medical Assistants

Medical assistants are the backbone of medical facilities. They focus on the administrative and clinical tasks involved in health care, like taking vital signs, administering medications per a physician鈥檚 order, or gathering medical history. They also may help with scheduling appointments, billing insurance, and processing paperwork. Learn more about how to become a medical assistant.

Clinical Nutritionists

Clinical nutrition is the study of how nutrients in food are processed, and what combination of nutrients are right for different health conditions and goals. Clinical nutritionists use research and medical tests to determine the best course of action for a patient to lead a healthy life. Learn more about how to become a clinical nutritionist.

Registered Dietitians

Registered dietitians work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and inpatient and outpatient clinics, and often work with individuals experiencing eating disorders, substance abuse, or medical conditions with symptoms that can be improved or managed with a more specific diet or meal planning. Dietitians create unique nutrition plans for clients and help them maintain healthy eating habits based on their medical needs. .

Community Health Workers

Community health workers are not only educators, but also advocates for community residents because they effectively communicate with health care providers and social service agencies. They create and implement programs that promote and improve individual and overall community health. Learn more about how to become a community health worker.

Occupational Health Workers

Occupational health workers help businesses keep their workplace safe and healthy. Occupational health is designed to protect employees from potential risks and hazards on the job, assisting with everything from injury prevention to injury care. Learn more about how to become an occupational health worker.

Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists are public health workers who investigate patterns and causes of disease. Their main objective is to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes. Epidemiologists typically specialize in a specific public health area, such as environmental health, infectious disease, and mental health. Learn more about how to become an epidemiologist.

EKG Technicians

EKG technicians operate equipment that measures, monitors, and graphically traces the electrical activity of the heart. They may also review images or test results to check for quality and coverage and analyze diagnostic information to provide a summary of findings for physicians. Learn more about how to become an EKG technician.

Potential Career Paths with a Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Health Sciences

Each of the above jobs needs at least an associate degree or a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree to start at the entry level, but an advanced degree is often required.

A health sciences degree combines practical science with care and teaches you how to apply both laboratory science skills like biology, chemistry, and physics, and social science disciplines like psychology and sociology to real-world health issues facing individuals and communities.

To advance your career in the in-demand field of allied health, you鈥檒l need a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in health sciences. A BS in Health Sciences is a flexible degree that widens your path of opportunity for careers in both the patient-facing and administrative sides of health care. It is also the degree of choice for those looking to continue on to a medical degree or advance their career further with a 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree in health sciences.

In addition to a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree, health care specialists must stay up to date with new technologies and processes throughout their career. One way to do this is through certificate programs like the health care and medical training programs offered through Excelsior鈥檚 partnership with聽.

No matter what professional direction you decide on, an Excelsior admissions counselor can help you choose the right health sciences degree for your goals.

Careers in Cyber: Information Systems Auditor

Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

All businesses need to make sure that their information technology (IT) systems are running securely and smoothly and are protected from outside threats. Information systems auditors, or IT auditors for short, are professionals who make sure IT systems are appropriately managed and are functioning properly. If you are a cyber junkie and are a detail-oriented person, this might be a perfect career for you. Let鈥檚 take a closer look.

What Is an Information Systems Auditor?

To be an IT auditor, you must pass certification, and so technically, these professionals are known as certified information systems auditors (CISA), as designated by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). We will talk more about this certification later. For the purpose of this article, we will refer to these professionals by their common name, IT auditors. They work in large and small companies and, simply put, they oversee, manage, and protect that company鈥檚 IT systems.

Earn the degree IT employers are looking for with a BS in Cybersecurity from Excelsior.

What Does an Information Systems Auditor Do?

IT auditors perform audits on the general IT structure of an organization, its application controls, and its system security, and also perform risk assessments. Let鈥檚 explore some of their specific roles and responsibilities.

Information Systems Auditor Roles and Responsibilities

IT auditors are heavily involved in auditing and testing IT systems. Here are some of their main responsibilities:

  • Implementing risk management-based audit strategy
  • Planning audits to determine if IT assets are protected, managed, and valuable
  • Executing audits in compliance with an organization鈥檚 standards and objectives
  • Sharing audit results and providing recommendations
  • Performing re-examinations to ensure recommended actions have been performed
  • Obtaining, installing, and integrating software
  • Maintaining an IT portfolio

    • IT auditors are also responsible for working directly with an organization鈥檚 management department to make sure security standards and procedures for an IT system are carried out and maintained appropriately.

    Information Systems Auditor Education Requirements

    To become an IT auditor, it鈥檚 important to have the right amount of education. Typically, employers prefer a 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 or 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree from a university that supports ISACA programs.

    杏吧原创鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program is designed to prepare students for cybersecurity-related jobs in the U.S. Cyber Command, the NSA鈥檚 signal intelligence operations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies, and corporate environments. Excelsior鈥檚 Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity Operations helps students build their skills in threat detection, incident response, information assurance, defense mitigation, and risk assessment, so you can make sure your career is ready for whatever comes next. Both these options are excellent choices for students planning to enter the field of IT auditing.

    It is important to note that designated CISAs continue their professional education and keep their knowledge in information systems, auditing, and control up to date. Therefore, IT auditors are required to undergo 20 hours of training per year with a minimum of 120 hours in a three-year period.

    杏吧原创 the Certified Information Systems Auditor Exam

    As mentioned, to be an IT auditor, you need to pass the certified systems auditor exam sponsored by ISACA. The CISA exam is open to anyone who wishes to pursue a career in auditing, control, and security. The four-hour test consists of 150 multiple-choice questions centered around five job domains: information systems auditing process; governance and management of IT; information systems acquisition, development, and implementation; information systems operations and business resilience; and protection of information assets. A passing score is 450 or higher (on a scale of 200-800).

    You might be wondering why it鈥檚 important to be certified as a CISA. Well, with a CISA certification, you have a more competitive advantage in the marketplace and you certainly have more credibility in the workplace. Not to mention, it has a large impact on your salary. According to TechTarget, CISAs make between $52,459 and $122,326 per year!

    If becoming an IT auditor sounds like the career choice for you, consider speaking with a Excelsior admissions counselor today to get started in a cybersecurity program.

    Career Spotlight: Business Analyst

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    Do you like making important decisions that affect the way things are run? Do you like having an influence on others? Do you like working for companies, big and small? Maybe becoming a business analyst is the right job for you. A business analyst is important to many businesses because they help with budgeting and identifying problems in the market. As a business analyst, you would have a key role in ensuring businesses run well and anticipating and solving any problems that arise.

    Let鈥檚 explore this job more.

    What Is a Business Analyst?

    Business analysts help organizations assess their business models, contribute to budgeting, analyze processes, and assist staff members with making profitable decisions. As a business analyst, it鈥檚 important to have knowledge of both business strategies and trends in the industry you work. Many business analysts also work with IT departments to make sure the technology supports a business鈥� needs.

    What Does a Business Analyst Do?

    Now that you know what a business analyst is, let鈥檚 find out more about what they do. The primary job of a business analyst is to identify a business鈥� needs and help the business evolve. They coordinate with all departments in a business and help increase productivity among staff. In the next section, we鈥檒l break down the day-to-day duties of a business analyst.

    Business Analyst Responsibilities

    Depending on what kind of business they work for, a business analyst can have many different duties and responsibilities. Generally, they research and present solutions, and then help implement these solutions. In an average day, business analysts may do any of the following:

    • Communicate with staff to understand the needs of the business
    • Conduct surveys, workshops, and tests
    • Assist with project management for selected projects
    • Collaborate with the product manager in planning and prioritization
    • Write clear and well-structured business requirements
    • Test business processes and recommend improvements
    • Create suggestions and solutions for strategic and operational changes
    • Identify automation opportunities
    • Invent systems or processes necessary to implement changes
    • Create reports for business performance
    • Support staff as solutions are implemented
    • Evaluate impact of changes made

    How to Become a Business Analyst

    According to Indeed.com, business analysts earn an average of $75,165 per year and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects this career and careers like it will grow 25 percent between 2020 and 2030. Doesn鈥檛 it sound like a great opportunity? Wait a second, though. If you are interested in becoming a business analyst, you should be aware that you need a certain level of education and work experience to enter this field. Let鈥檚 take a closer look.

    Business Analyst Education Requirements

    Many employers require you have at least a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree for an entry-level position as a business analyst. Advanced positions may require a 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree or higher. Many graduates have backgrounds in business, engineering, marketing, and statistics. 杏吧原创鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Business program will give you a broad foundation in liberal arts and sciences, as well as the knowledge you need to create effective business strategies and achieve measurable results for your employer. The Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) in Business and Management program includes coursework in accounting, financial management, marketing, project management, employee relations, leadership, management practice, business communication, and global commerce. Both are good choices if you want to pursue a career as a business analyst.

    It鈥檚 also highly recommended that you earn a certification to expand your skill set. An IIBA Entry Certificate in Business Analysis (ECBA) is a wise move if you鈥檙e just starting out. The other three certifications you should be aware of are:

    • IIBA Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
    • IIBA Certification of Capability in Business Analysis (CCBA)
    • PMI Professional in Business Analytics (PMI-PBA)

    Business Analyst Work Experience

    As an entry-level business analyst, you will probably start by working under a senior analyst. After a few years, you may be able work independently and be able to work directly with senior management and stakeholders. You may also obtain other positions such as a functional analyst, systems analyst, or financial analyst. Your career can only go higher; if you stay on your career path, you may see yourself as a senior business analyst, business manager, business architect, or in VP-level positions.

    As you can see, the possibilities are endless. So, what are you waiting for? Contact an Excelsior today and get started on your path to becoming a business analyst!

    Career Spotlight: Certified EKG Technician

    Posted on by Jenna Kerwin

    Have you or someone you know ever had their heart monitored electronically? A technician attaches electrodes to your chest (and maybe arms and legs in other circumstances) and reads the results on an EKG machine nearby. The person who does this is a certified EKG technician, also known as an electrocardiograph technician. It鈥檚 a fascinating career that you might find could be the right choice for you.

    What Is a Certified EKG Technician?

    Certified EKG technicians work in a variety of health care settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient centers, doctors鈥� offices, labs, and private practices. They use special equipment to measure a patient鈥檚 heart activity and relay this information to other health professionals so they can treat cardiovascular conditions. Certified EKG technicians are often the first person to discover any irregularities in the heart that could lead to disease or other problems.

    What Does a Certified EKG Technician Do?

    As mentioned, certified EKG technicians have the important job of monitoring a person鈥檚 heart for any abnormalities. Their other day-to-day tasks and responsibilities include:

    • Obtaining patients鈥� medical histories
    • Preparing patients for procedures, including positioning them correctly
    • Educating patients about testing procedures
    • Ensuring equipment is in good operating order
    • Attaching leads to patients, chest, arms, and legs
    • Performing stress tests
    • Administering EKG tests
    • Verifying the quality of test data
    • Delivering test results to physicians and other medical professionals
    • Performing administrative tasks like making appointments and keeping records
    • Assisting physicians during procedures
    鈥� Ready to do more in your health care career? Get started with our 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 in health sciences!

    Certified EKG Technician Salary

    According to , the median EKG technician salary in the United States is $54,800 as of January 2026, but the range usually falls between $49,900 and $65,400. Nationally, the top 10% of earners in this role can make more than $75,000 per year.

    How Do You Become a Certified EKG Technician?

    While it is true that becoming a certified EKG technician doesn鈥檛 require as much education as other careers, it is still important to make sure you have the right knowledge, training, and certification for this career. Let鈥檚 take a closer look.

    Certified EKG Technician Requirements

    Typically, a high school diploma is all that is required to become a certified EKG technician, but many employers prefer you earn an associate degree in a health-related field. In 杏吧原创鈥檚 Associate in Science in Health Sciences program, you gain skills needed for entry-level jobs in medical office administration, health insurance member services, community health services, medical billing management, and human resources. This is a beneficial degree program if you鈥檇 like to become a certified EKG technician.

    You also need the appropriate certification to pursue this career.

    EKG Technician Training Online

    Through Excelsior鈥檚 partnership with , students can obtain the qualifications and education they need to start their career in health care. MedCerts鈥� EKG technician program is ideal for those looking to learn about the in-demand field of electrocardiography.

    EKG Technician Certification

    Once you have had at least one year of experience working in the field as an EKG technician, you can sit for the certification exam through the National Healthcare Association. When you pass this certification, you will become a certified EKG technician (CET). You can also become a certified cardiographic technician (CCT) if you work with Holter monitoring and stress testing.

    It鈥檚 important to note that if you have certification, you are more marketable to employers and are a stronger candidate for job positions.

    Further Education for EKG Technicians

    While there is no legal mandate to continue your higher education for certified EKG technicians, you do need to renew your credentials every two years and pay a recertification fee. EKG technicians with the CCT credential must renew their credentials 9鈥�12 months after first passing the exam and then every three years after that.

    It鈥檚 always a good idea to pursue higher learning and expand your knowledge base. 杏吧原创鈥檚 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 in health sciences program covers the scope of responsibilities related to a spectrum of health care careers, and teaches you how to succeed as an employee in treatment centers, public health agencies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other medical service or non-clinical health organizations. It is a good choice if you鈥檇 like to keep your skills as a certified EKG technician up to date and beneficial if you鈥檇 like to pursue other career goals.

    Career Spotlight: Incident Response Analyst

    Posted on by Mary Kate Weaver

    Ever wonder what it is like to fight an invisible fight? Incident response analysts are cyber defense warriors who are constantly fighting the invisible fight. They are responsible for keeping attacks from occurring in any organization. Many work independently as a consultant or are a key member of an organization’s cybersecurity or information technology team. According to Norton.com, there are around 2,200 cyberattacks a day in the United States. Incident response analysts work behind the scenes to keep networks and computer systems safe. Learn how you can be part of the invisible fight in this guide.

    Incident Response Analyst Job Description

    An incident response analyst鈥檚 main goal is to protect their organization鈥檚 network and computer systems. They work with the cybersecurity and information technology teams to fix and minimize damage when a crisis occurs.

    Typically, job duties of an incident response analyst includes:

  • Create protocols and procedures for end users to follow during security incidents
  • Implement security tools
  • Monitor computer systems and networks
  • Perform malware analysis and penetration testing
  • Research new tools, procedures, and protocols
  • Identify and investigate computer and network threats
  • Create incident reports for leadership and other users
  • Develop protection plan strategies

    • Incident response analysts are also responsible for finding new and better ways to protect the organization鈥檚 systems. They are constantly researching new ideas and ways to prevent cyberattacks from occurring.

    Depending on the organization, incident response analysts are likely to monitor systems in multiple locations. That being said, this job aligns well with remote work. Many incident response analysts monitor systems all over the country or even the world, and most incidents can be resolved remotely.

    Start your career defending against cyberattacks with a BS in Cybersecurity from Excelsior.

    Incident Response Analyst Skills

    Incident response analysts typically need a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. To succeed in leadership roles, most companies prefer candidates to have a 尘补蝉迟别谤鈥檚 degree and multiple years of experience. Work experience, combined with a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, and the following skills will set you up to be a great candidate for any incident response analyst position.

  • Analytical skills. You must study and understand computer systems, software, and networks to access risks and determine improvements for security policies and procedures.
  • Creative skills. This one might not seem as obvious, but incident response analysts must be creative to anticipate security risks and implement new ways to protect their organization.
  • Problem-solving skills. As an incident response analyst, you must problem-solve to fix and uncover security threats and flaws in systems and networks.
  • Communication skills.You need to be able to explain information security needs and potential threats to end users and leadership who may not understand technical terms.
  • Detail oriented. Incident response analysts must pay close attention to systems and networks. Any minor change can be a security threat.
  • Team player. When a security threat happens, incident response analysts must work together to minimize the threat as quickly as possible. It is important to have a team that you trust and work well with.

    • While all these skills are necessary, it is also important to be flexible and a continuous learner. Computer systems are constantly changing and evolving; incident response analysts must keep up with the latest trends, technology, education, and cyber threats within their particular industry.

    Incident Response Analyst Salary

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), incident response analysts make $102,600 on average per year. For entry-level positions, you can make around $61,520 with plenty of room for growth. Employment is expected to grow 35 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than all other occupations. Cyberattacks are growing in frequency daily, and more companies and organizations are hiring their own cybersecurity teams to ensure they are protected as best they can. Incident response analysts are necessary to protect and defend computer systems and networks from the ever-changing world of cyber threats.

    As an incident response analyst, you can work across any industry; the most common are state and government agencies, health care, higher education, fashion, sales, the police force, and many other industries. If you use a computer at work, you most likely have an incident response analyst on your information technology team.

    Earn a 产补肠丑别濒辞谤鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity from 杏吧原创 today so you鈥檙e ready to fight the invisible fight!