However, my perception of professional networking changed when I became familiar with professional learning networks (PLNs). Upon researching PLNs, I concluded that professional networking wasn’t just about getting to know other professionals. It offers a bridgeway to continued learning, mentorship and subject matter expertise.

PLNs: Definition and Origins

Professional learning networks, also referred to as professional learning communities, is a concept defined by “as any group who engage in collaborative learning with others outside of their everyday community of practice.”

Originating in education, PLNs are commonly used by educators as a form of professional development. A quick search will reveal numerous articles and websites discussing how to develop professional learning networks, but most of this advice is still rooted and aimed toward helping educators achieve professional growth.

The Benefits of PLNs

The highlighted four benefits for being a member of a professional learning network, which I’ve summarized below:

1. Improve job skills and performance: PLNs allow professionals to share best practices, ask for group member feedback and share their successes, which can lead to improved job skills and performance.
2. Build relationships: PLNs are a way to build professional relationships and develop a community of learners, which in turn creates a professional support network for group members.
3. Learn about technology and tools: PLNs provide a platform for creating awareness about technology and tools used by group members. Group members can gain insights on what works and what is challenging, which can lead to learning and support from others.
4. Encourage professional reflection: PLNs are a place for professionals to talk about the ins and outs of their jobs with other people who understand it. Candid discussions can be more important than group members even realize, as they can help identify areas of opportunity, reveal new perspectives and even spark members’ personal growth.

Educators often are involved with PLNs for an extended period and groups are commonly developed based on subject matter expertise. For example, a group of math educators might form a PLN to share best practices for teaching math and challenges they are experiencing in the classroom. Additionally, PLNs might include , such as youth or health services.

PLNs Across Different Industries

I encourage the use of PLNs across industry professionals, with a bit of adjustment from the typical approach. Professionals working outside of the educator sector can also benefit from PLNs and can develop PLNs through professional networking.

Take professionals who work in sustainability-related careers. Sustainability professionals work across career sectors. Car builders, cleaning products, food and home product companies, among numerous others, often promote their sustainability efforts. The core of sustainability refers to how a company’s practices and production impact the environment.

However, sustainability is a broad topic which involves infinite subtopics, as illustrated by the . Therefore, sustainability professionals can have varying subject matter expertise. One might be an expert in sustainable business development, whereas another could be an expert in water resources management. Someone who studied sustainability in a college art program might have a different perspective of sustainability than someone who studied it in an engineering program.

PLNs offer a free and accessible way for sustainability professionals to share knowledge, learn from others’ experiences and build community, which I argue is needed when addressing complex sustainability work.

How to Create PLNs Outside of Education

How do professionals create PLNs when they don’t work in the same industry? Educators often engage in PLNs with others from their institution, district, state or region. Professionals in other sectors might not have the same structural makeup as the education sector and finding time to engage with PLNs can become challenging for anyone. Strategic online networking using the internet and social media can help professionals connect who might not have originally had the chance to meet.

Research and Connect With Possible Peers

The internet is a fabulous tool to learn about organizations and the people who make them a success. Research top businesses, nonprofits and public sector organizations to identify the professionals who work in your sector. Then, don’t be afraid to reach out!

I’ve used this “cold call” method to connect with other professionals. While it doesn’t guarantee a response, I have succeeded in asking a professional in my field to meet via Zoom for a brief 15-minute introduction and chat. There doesn’t need to be a long pre-planned agenda. Instead, I approach these conversations as casual and informal. The goal is to build a connection with someone else in the same field and possibly learn if there are similar interests.

Use Social Media

Another approach, which is also common within educator sector PLNs, is the use of social media. If someone uses social media, they can create an account specific to their profession, dedicated to discussing topics and trends within their industry. They can use that account for online networking and follow other professionals in their field. Using social media to develop PLNs creates a subject-focused platform where a person can learn and share information and ideas. Social media PLNs are a great way to connect with professionals around the globe, which inspires diverse learning.

Embrace an Informal Structure

Keep in mind that PLNs for non-educators might be more fluid and less structured than education sector PLNs. Educator PLNs often set goals as a group. However, a PLN does not have to be a formal group. If someone creates a PLN through social media, the people or organizations followed do not need to be aware they are being followed. This is what I call a one-way PLN, as only one-way communication is applied: The professional who is doing the following is obtaining information, but they might not interact with others online nor share information online.

Likewise, PLNs where the professional knows others might not officially state that someone is in their PLN, but instead, they have built a professional relationship that allows for two-way communication randomly, with no set guidelines or expectations.

Engage With a Group

You can also create a more traditional PLN, where group members agree to engage and share ideas. The traditional PLN approach is intended to be mutually beneficial and promote career growth. Each member of the group must be willing to engage with other group members and contribute to the group equally. For example, if the group decides to read a book to later analyze and share ideas, then it is essential that all members of the group complete the reading on time to fully participate. Of course, PLNs should be respectful of members’ time (I don’t recommend lengthy books), and it’s also important to be mindful of financial abilities (I suggest using open-access readings).

The most important thing to know is that PLNs are meant to help us learn and evolve. Through these relationships, we might find mentors, sponsors, future employers or potential collaborators that can help us reach career goals. Professional learning networks create community, which can help inspire innovation and even advance your career.

Expand your online professional network while learning the skills you need to take your career to the next level. Explore ������Ƶ’s fully online programs.

Teaching and learning are evolving rapidly, shaped by technology, globalization and the diverse needs of today’s students. Modern teaching methods emphasize interaction, adaptability, and the application of technology to create dynamic and engaging learning environments. This blog explores innovative strategies, methodologies and actionable techniques that foster effective teaching and learning in a modern educational context.

Understanding Modern Teaching Methods and Techniques

What Are Modern Teaching Methods?

Teaching methods refer to the strategies and techniques educators use to facilitate learning. While traditional approaches often center on teacher-led lectures, modern methods emphasize the student’s active participation in learning. Modern teaching methods integrate innovative techniques and educational tools to create an interactive and practical learning experience. These approaches prioritize a diverse, student-centric framework, ensuring that education adapts to students’ needs and interests.

Further, modern teaching methods go beyond academic instruction. They aim to foster holistic development, encompassing critical thinking, leadership skills, emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, social-emotional learning, and other essential personal and professional growth competencies.

Evolution of Education Methods

Education has transitioned from the rigid structures of the traditional classroom to flexible, inclusive and interactive methodologies. This evolution is driven by societal changes, technological advancements and the recognition that diverse students require varied teaching approaches.

As humans, we often gravitate toward habitual patterns of behavior, and for teachers, this can mean falling into the routine of teaching the same way year after year. While this approach may feel comfortable and familiar, it risks creating a rigid curriculum that does not meet the diverse needs of all students. Students are typically expected to conform to the curriculum rather than the curriculum evolving to suit them. Traditional classrooms are already heavily curriculum-centered, making adapting to individual learning styles and requirements challenging.

Traditional methods often fall short in today’s dynamic world due to their limited adaptability. The one-size-fits-all model fails to address students’ individual needs or incorporate real-world applications, which are essential in preparing students for the future. Traditional classroom lectures and methods such as rote memorization are becoming .

In their place, innovative teaching methodologies and modernized adaptations of time-tested strategies are emerging, reshaping 21st-century education. Today’s educators leverage new technologies to engage and empower students, fostering dynamic and interactive learning experiences.

The Importance of Modern Education Methods

Modern education methods are essential for preparing students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. They equip students with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are vital for of the 21st century.

By tailoring approaches to meet the diverse needs of individual students, modern methods foster inclusivity and promote engagement, ensuring that all students have an opportunity to succeed. These methods embrace technological advancements, making learning more accessible, interactive and aligned with the realities of a technology-driven society. Through these innovative strategies, modern education empowers students to meet the demands of a dynamic and evolving global landscape.

Core Principles of Effective Teaching and Learning Methodology

Modern teaching methods move beyond traditional lectures and textbooks, embracing innovative approaches to keep students actively engaged in learning. Strategies such as blended learning flipped classrooms and project-based learning exemplifies this shift, tailored to modern students.

The core principles of effective teaching and learning methodology include active student engagement, clear communication of learning objectives, timely and specific feedback, fostering a positive learning environment, tailoring instruction to diverse students, incorporating real-world applications, encouraging critical thinking, and aligning assessment with learning goals. These principles aim to create an environment where students are actively engaged in their learning, receive consistent feedback, and are challenged to apply their knowledge in meaningful and practical ways.

What Are the Benefits of Modern Teaching Methods?

Modern teaching methodologies that enhance students’ learning experience.

Active Learning

Active learning is a teaching approach where students take an active role and participate in the learning process by engaging with course material through activities like discussion, problem-solving, reflection and collaboration, rather than passively receiving information through lectures alone. It emphasizes students constructing their knowledge by thinking critically and applying concepts to real-world situations.

activity-based and highly interactive learning experiences. Active learning is more engaging and significantly outperforms passive learning in terms of effectiveness. Research shows that active learning methods are often superior to passive methods concerning learning outcomes.

Soft Skills

Modern teaching also nurtures essential soft skills, moving beyond a narrow focus on technical abilities. Students naturally develop critical thinking, teamwork, adaptability and self-awareness through collaborative and problem-solving activities. These character traits and competencies help students discover their strengths and weaknesses, better preparing them for life beyond the classroom.

Personalization

Flexibility is a hallmark of modern teaching methods, offering tailored approaches to accommodate diverse learning styles and unique needs, including those of students with disabilities. Students can progress at their own pace and engage with materials that resonate with their preferences, ensuring a more inclusive and effective learning environment.

Deep Learning

A key outcome of active learning is deep learning. When students explore and discover knowledge independently, they become more engaged and excited and achieve a deeper understanding. Learning by doing allows them to internalize new concepts far more effectively than passive observation ever could. Modern teaching methods prioritize engagement, flexibility and depth, creating a dynamic learning environment that equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the modern world.

Innovative Techniques to Enhance Teaching and Learning

Technology in Education Methods

Technology integration into education has transformed teaching and learning processes, making them more efficient and engaging. Tools such as learning management systems (LMS), virtual classrooms and AI-based tutoring platforms and interact with students.

For instance, LMS platforms like Google Classroom streamline lesson planning, assignments and assessments, while virtual classroom tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams facilitate remote learning and collaboration. AI-driven tools like Khan Academy provide personalized content tailored to individual student needs, offering targeted support for various learning levels.

Benefits of Technology Integration

The use of technology in education enhances accessibility, personalizes learning experiences, and enables the delivery of interactive and engaging content. These advancements ensure that students from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs can effectively participate and succeed in their educational journeys.

Personalized and Adaptive Learning Techniques

Adaptive learning is an innovative approach that uses data to tailor educational content to meet each student’s unique pace, strengths and weaknesses. Platforms like Smart Sparrow allow educators to design adaptive courses, while tools like DreamBox Learning specialize in math-focused adaptive education.

Advantages of Adaptive Learning

Adaptive learning addresses diverse learning styles, ensures individualized attention and empowers students to progress at their own pace. This approach fosters deeper understanding and promotes a more inclusive and effective learning environment by catering to each learner’s specific needs. These innovative techniques demonstrate how technology and adaptive methods are reshaping education, paving the way for more personalized, accessible and impactful learning experiences.

Active Learning Strategies for the 21st Century

Strategies for the 21st Century

Modern classrooms benefit from active learning strategies that engage students and develop critical skills for the 21st century. , for instance, use structured discussions to promote critical thinking and articulate expression, encouraging students to explore and defend their ideas. Role-playing and case studies immerse students in real-world scenarios, fostering empathy, problem-solving skills and practical understanding. Interactive group discussions enhance engagement by facilitating dialogue, collaboration and shared problem-solving among peers.

Additional strategies such as differentiated instruction, group work and small group activities allow educators to tailor their teaching to meet the diverse needs of students, ensuring inclusivity and engagement. Game-based learning integrates play and education, making learning more enjoyable and effective. Student-centered approaches place the student at the core, encouraging autonomy and active participation, while incorporating physical activities fosters kinesthetic learning and enhances focus, particularly for younger students.

Assessment Techniques to Complement Modern Teaching Methods

Effective assessment strategies are essential to support and enhance modern teaching methodologies. Data-driven assessment strategies enable educators to analyze trends, identify strengths and weaknesses, and tailor instruction to meet students’ needs more effectively. Here are common types of assessments that complement today’s effective teaching methods:

• Formative assessments, such as quizzes or discussions, provide ongoing evaluations that guide students’ learning progress.
• Summative assessments, including final exams or projects, measure overall achievement.
• Peer-to-peer evaluations encourage students to assess each other’s work, fostering collaboration and reflective learning.

By combining active learning strategies, including differentiated instruction, group work, game-based learning, physical activities and innovative assessment techniques, educators create a dynamic and responsive learning environment that prepares students to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Challenges and Solutions in Implementing Modern Teaching Techniques

Implementing modern teaching techniques often involves several challenges:

• Resistance to change is a common barrier, as educators and institutions may struggle to transition from traditional methods.
• Limited access to technology or insufficient resources can also hinder the adoption of innovative approaches.
• Gaps in teacher training often leave educators unprepared to utilize modern methodologies effectively.
• While integral to the learning process, integrating media and technology poses challenges for children. However, that students adapt to it easily and learn to discern information according to their needs.

Practical solutions to these challenges include providing ongoing professional development opportunities to equip teachers with the skills needed for modern classrooms. Ensuring access to affordable technology and tools can bridge the resource gap while fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within schools and encouraging educators to embrace new methods and tools.

Future Trends in Teaching and Learning Methodologies

Emerging trends in education promise to reshape the landscape of teaching and learning. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are poised to play significant roles, with AI tools analyzing student performance and suggesting personalized learning paths tailored to individual needs. Micro-learning and nano-learning are gaining popularity, offering short, focused sessions that cater to fast-paced lifestyles and evolving attention spans.

Additionally, sustainable education methods, including green practices and ethical teaching approaches, are becoming increasingly important to ensure that education remains impactful and relevant in a rapidly changing world. Addressing current challenges and embracing future trends can help educators create a more effective, inclusive and forward-thinking learning environment.

FAQs on Modern Methods and Techniques of Teaching

Addressing these common questions can help educators better understand how to implement modern teaching methods and maximize their impact on student learning.

What are the key differences between traditional and modern teaching methods?

Modern teaching methods prioritize interactivity, student-centered approaches and technology integration, whereas traditional methods often rely on lectures and teacher-led instruction. This shift fosters active engagement and collaboration, making learning more dynamic and adaptable to diverse needs.

How can teachers incorporate modern methods into their classrooms?

Teachers can incorporate modern methods by integrating technology, making use of well-designed LMS platforms and virtual classrooms. They can foster collaboration and engagement among students through group projects and discussions. They can also design lesson plans emphasizing project-based and experiential learning to make concepts more engaging and practical.

What role does technology play in modern teaching?

Technology transforms modern teaching by enhancing accessibility, personalizing learning experiences and fostering interactive environments. Tools like LMS platforms and virtual classrooms allow educators to deliver content efficiently, engage students actively and adapt teaching methods to meet individual learning needs.

Are modern teaching methods suitable for all age groups?

Modern teaching methods are versatile and can be tailored to various educational levels, from primary schools to higher education. The flexibility of these approaches ensures that students of all ages benefit from engaging, personalized and effective educational experiences.

Modern teaching methods are transforming education, fostering innovation and preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. By adopting these methods, educators can create vibrant, inclusive and effective learning environments that meet the diverse needs of today’s students. Whether through technology, personalized learning or active engagement, the future of teaching lies in embracing change and innovation.

Equip yourself with research-backed best strategies for effective instruction. Explore ������Ƶ’s fully online education programs.

What Is an MBA Degree?

An MBA represents the gold standard in business education. Since its inception at Harvard Business School in 1908, it has evolved into a globally recognized credential that signals both business acumen and leadership potential. Today’s business education landscape offers different types of MBA programs to accommodate various lifestyles and career stages.

• Full-time programs: These programs are considered traditional programs that often take two years to complete. Often, they’re offered in person and work best for students whose schedule allows for more classroom time.
• Part-time programs: These programs are ideal for those needing a flexible schedule who may already be working professionals. They allow for good work-school balance.
• Executive MBA (EMBA) programs: These programs are tailored for seasoned business professionals seeking to work at the executive level.
• Online MBAs: These programs are offered fully online, an option known for maximum flexibility and often more affordability.

Each format serves different needs, with program lengths ranging from 12 months to three academic years, depending on the format and intensity. For example, the MBA program at ������Ƶ (ACE) is offered fully online. Its students are dynamic individuals balancing careers and family commitments, making its flexible online format an ideal pathway to advance their education without disrupting their personal and professional responsibilities.

Why Get an MBA? Top Reasons to Consider

Career Advancement

An MBA serves as a catalyst for professional transformation. As a master’s degree, it opens doors to executive positions and empowers graduates to seamlessly navigate across industries – from established financial institutions to innovative tech startups. Beyond just theoretical knowledge, an MBA equips you with a comprehensive business toolkit that translates across any sector.

Enhanced Earning Potential

Among one of its many benefits, an MBA represents a strategic investment in your financial future. It’s known to open doors to higher compensation, with graduates reporting meaningful increases in their earning potential. Beyond base salary improvements, MBA holders often gain access to advanced compensation structures including performance bonuses, profit sharing and equity participation. This comprehensive boost in earning capacity typically delivers substantial returns over the course of your career, making the initial investment worthwhile for professionals across industries and regions.

According to the , the median salary for business and financial occupations was $79,050 in 2023, substantially more than the median salary for all occupations, which was $48,060.

Build Lifelong Professional Connections

MBA programs offer you the unique opportunity to build a community of other business professionals that can shape your career for decades to come. As you progress through the program, you’ll develop meaningful relationships with peers who bring diverse industry perspectives to every interaction.

Your network expands further through connections with experienced faculty who bring real-world insights to their teaching and industry leaders who actively engage with the program. These relationships can create a powerful professional network that continues to deliver value long after graduation, opening doors and creating opportunities at every stage of your career path.

Comprehensive Skill Development

Both hard and soft skills are essential in the business profession. Through your MBA courses, you’ll develop advanced analytical skills in finance, strategic planning and data-driven decision making – all while mastering the nuances of strategy and operations management.

Equally important, MBA programs cultivate the refined interpersonal abilities that distinguish exceptional leaders – from persuasive communication and skillful negotiation to effective team leadership and cross-cultural fluency. Beyond traditional business competencies, you’ll also learn about sustainable business practices and social impact management. This prepares you to make strategic decisions that balance business success with societal benefit.

What Does an MBA Teach You?

MBA curricula provide both theoretical knowledge and practical business skills that equip graduates for higher-level business roles. It builds upon what an individual learns with an undergraduate degree by providing deeper dives into specific areas.

Leadership and Organizational Management

Two of the most important skills you’ll learn in an MBA program are leadership and organizational management. The ability to lead and manage set you apart and catapult your success in the business world. Sometimes courses in these areas help you identify your leadership style and understand the various approaches to leading projects and others.

Financial and Analytical Skills

MBA programs often focus on preparing graduates to make data-driven budgetary decisions. This involves learning about financial and managerial accounting principles as well as statistical analysis.

Strategic Thinking

Approaching decisions and challenges strategically is paramount to successful business leadership, particularly as it pertains to generating visions, plans and goals. MBA programs often focus on this skill as it applies to many components of business, including financial management, human resources, marketing and more.

Global and Digital Perspective

MBA graduates are uniquely equipped in international business relations. Further, MBA programs often include courses that cultivate a global perspective, reaching consumers and conducting business with international stakeholders. Additionally, they equip graduates with digital business competency, a critical skill in today’s evolving technology space.

Practical Application

An MBA is not the kind of degree that leaves you unprepared for real-world scenarios. Many program courses emphasize practical application through assignments like case study analyses, business simulations, problem-solving exercises, strategic plan development, applied data analysis and more.

Is an MBA Right for You?

Pursuing an MBA attracts diverse professionals united by their ambition to create meaningful impact in the business world. Many successful candidates come to the program with several years of professional experience, looking to accelerate their career trajectory or transition into more influential leadership roles. Some are technical professionals who seek to complement their expertise with more business acumen. Others are innovative entrepreneurs ready to scale their ventures with sophisticated business principles and strategies.

Whether you’re a mid-career professional seeking to advance within your organization, an industry expert looking to pivot into a new sector, or a business owner aiming to expand your enterprise’s operational success, an MBA can provide the network, knowledge and skills to achieve your goals.

The ideal candidate brings not just professional experience to the classroom, but also a vision for how business can better serve society. They’re ready to engage with complex challenges,eager to learn from diverse perspectives, and committed to developing the skills needed to drive meaningful change in their organizations and communities.

How Much Does an MBA Cost?

The cost of an MBA depends on factors like course delivery (in-person or online), institution, location and program length. The . Such high costs have resulted in the growing popularity of fully online, accelerated programs that are often far more affordable.

For example, the fully online MBA program at ACE has a total cost of $8,675 that can be paid through a variety of payment options that help even further with affordability. Compare this to the in-person MBA at Harvard Business School, which costs .

Common MBA Myths Debunked

Myth 1: “MBAs are only for finance careers.”

Reality: Modern MBA graduates work across industries including technology, healthcare, nonprofit and entrepreneurship.

Myth 2: “You need a business background.”

Reality: MBA programs value diverse backgrounds, with many successful MBA students coming from engineering, humanities and sciences.

Myth 3: “Online MBAs aren’t respected.”

Reality: Many top business schools now offer highly regarded online programs with identical curricula to their in-person counterparts.

Making Your Decision

Deciding to pursue an MBA is a significant step in your professional journey and completing the program offers a distinctive path forward. You’ll want to think through both the costs and benefits to determine whether it’s worthwhile and whether it will contribute to your long-term goals. What excites you about getting an MBA? What is potentially holding you back?

You might be concerned about both the time and financial commitments. Today’s evolving higher education landscape is designed to meet you where you are in a flexible and affordable way. At ACE, you can earn an MBA without breaking the bank or dismantling your professional and personal obligations.

With a fully online format and multiple start dates throughout the year, you can complete your MBA when it best suits your schedule. The five-week course structure allows you to focus intensively on one subject at a time, making it manageable to balance work and study. Plus, with tuition under $9,500 – far less than traditional MBA programs – you can advance your education without taking on substantial debt.

ACE’s MBA is especially valuable if you’re seeking to develop your leadership capabilities in today’s evolving business landscape. You’ll learn not just how to manage teams and operations, but how to lead with purpose and drive organizational change. The program emphasizes evidence-based decision-making that prepares you to tackle complex business challenges while considering their broader societal impact.

Key Program Features of the MBA From ACE

Format and Flexibility

• Online delivery for accessibility
• Multiple start dates throughout the academic year
• Flexible scheduling options to fit student needs

Program Focus

• Strong emphasis on data- and evidence-based approaches
• Integration of business management and leadership skills
• Culmination of various business elements, including marketing, human resources and more

Course Delivery

• Structured five-week terms
• Clear deadlines and milestones
• Built-in flexibility with multiple entry points

Alternatives to the MBA

An MBA is not the only degree that can cultivate the leadership, organizational management and strategic thinking skills you need to excel in business. There are alternative advanced degrees that have focuses within a specific industry or a sector. Here are just a few:

• M.S. in Organizational Leadership
• M.S. in Business Analytics
• M.S. in Finance
• M.S. in Engineering Management
• M.S. in Data Analytics
• M.S. in Marketing
• Master of Healthcare Administration
• M.Ed. in Educational Business Administration

������Ƶ’s flexible and affordable online business programs can help you advance your career. Explore our MBA and our M.S. in Organizational Leadership degrees.

We are all connected to organizations in some way, and we all depend on organizational management as part of our daily routines. Organizational management is foundational to the functioning of businesses, nonprofits, schools, professional groups and numerous other organization types. Organizational structure, leadership, culture, policies, practices, problem solving and strategic planning are all important components of organizational management.

For example, organizational management controls organizational communication. How are decisions made and shared with employees? Communication is an essential organizational function that when done well is effective, but when done poorly, can negatively impact employee morale and even stir controversy within communities.

Organizational management is multi-layered and complex, and there are management professionals who spend their careers ensuring the smooth interplay of all these different components so that their organization is run effectively, meets its goals and can have a vision for their future. If you work in organizational management or aspire to, here are major aspects of the field you should familiarize yourself with.

Strategic Growth is Crucial to Organizational Management

When thinking about the future, some organizational leaders are focused on growth. And though growth is important, from an organizational management perspective, leaders should focus on strategic growth.

Organizations worldwide are working to achieve strategic and sustainable development goals. While organizational leaders should always seek opportunities for growth and improvement, it is also important to be cognizant of sustainability. Growth and sustainability do not always align.

For example, corporations that grow too fast with a narrowed focus on financial profits will most likely increase demands on employees and place less focus on employee happiness or a positive work environment. This approach can be a recipe for disaster, with doors that were once open to hiring being forced to closed, resulting in layoffs.

The Importance of Putting Employees First

Today, organizations are placing focus on being more people centered. Stakeholders have pushed back against traditional hierarchical structures, with some organizations adopting non-traditional structures, such as a   or a . This shift in organizational structures is highly influenced by millennial and Generation Z employees, who have different viewpoints about work-life balance, loyalty and leadership compared to previous generations.

Today’s employees want to be a part of organizations where they feel valued, respected, and provided with opportunities to succeed and grow. In particular, sense of belonging is a popular topic within business and education circles. Dr. Maithreyi Gopalan, a professor at the University of Oregon, has studied a sense of belonging and how it matters to students. shows how “a sense of belonging” has been identified as a universal and fundamental human motivation in the field of psychology.

These same principles apply to the workplace. It is hard to imagine anyone wanting to feel unwanted or that they don’t fit in at their place of employment. Yet, how many people experience these feelings? In 2023, journalist and workplace expert “employees who do not enjoy work can experience being disconnected, bored and disengaged,” none of which promote productivity, innovation or success.

Successful organizations require a vision that goes beyond profits. Employee happiness matters, maybe even more so than customer satisfaction. It seems unlikely that an organization with unhappy employees will have satisfied customers. Employees who are disconnected, bored and disengaged might skip protocol steps, make mistakes and cause organizational breakdowns.

Organizational Management Involves Vision

At its foundation, organizational management is a collective of the functions of management all working to achieve organizational goals. Kim Vitasek, senior contributor at Forbes magazine, explained goes beyond the traditional idea of management, how it “takes on a broader, more encompassing role to establish the strategic plan to fulfill the business’s mission and vision, and then carry out those initiatives.”

Kim Vitasek also noted how important planning and organizing are to successful organizational management. Intentional planning and decisions are what lead to the best organizational policies, practices and workplace culture, and can also impact employees’ trust in leadership.

For example, when recruiting a new employee for a management position, leaders who practice effective organizational management strategies will take into consideration the culture of the organization and the leadership styles of candidates for the position.

An intelligent approach is to hire a manager who will work well with team members and vice versa. Failing to do so can instigate workplace conflict, low employee morale and employee resignations.

Organizational management controls employee recruiting and hiring, an example of when business processes are closely intertwined with people processes. To ensure organizational culture and key stakeholders are considered, organizational leaders can invite employees to be a part of the recruiting and hiring process. Employees could help develop the job description for recruiting. They could also help develop interview questions and participate in interviews.

Another approach to creating and sustaining a positive work culture is investing in professional development and internal employee promotions. Supporting employees’ career development offers various benefits, including employee retention. Let’s explore this topic.

Organizational Management’s Role in Employee Retention

Organizations want to retain skilled employees. Employee resignations cost organizations money and disrupt organizational management. The importance of employee retention came to light after the COVID-19 pandemic, which was influential in causing 2021’s . The Great Resignation called attention to organizational management, as organizations were forced to redesign and revamp existing practices and policies.

Some experts are concerned that the workforce is about to experience a Great Resignation 2.0. In July 2024, that, from a group of 1,000 individuals, three out of ten people questioned stated they planned to resign from their jobs within the year. This report isn’t promising to organizational leaders, who are already concerned about fiscal budgets amid economic inflation.

Now, possibly more than ever, organizational leaders must plan for improving employee retention. However, this is easier said than done, especially if an organization is struggling due to a toxic work culture.

Improve Employee Retention With Professional Development

Promoting internal employees and offering opportunities for career development is an inclusive management and hiring practice. Furthermore, it’s a practice to counter employee attrition and promote employee retention.

Organizations that focus on employees’ professional development are shown to have better employee retention. It also helps the organization, ensuring its employees stay up to date with industry trends and the latest strategies. The benefits of professional development include:

• Improved employee engagement
• Increased retention
• An easier time attracting top job candidates
• Enhanced productivity
• Employees reaching their full potential
• More profits

In today’s business world, offering employees opportunities to advance their careers within an organization is a key benefit and recruiting tool.

Coaching and Mentorship Within Organizations

Employee development can also come in the form of coaching and mentorship. Coaching is more commonly used with short-term goals and related to performance, while mentorship is a long-term relationship where a mentor offers their mentee guidance for professional navigation, advice for career advancement and encouragement to step forward.

Mentorships can last for several months or years. Most important, mentorship programs are beneficial to both employees and organizations.

Organizations with built-in, formal mentorship programs create an inclusive landscape for professional development and internal employee advancement. Employees might be uncomfortable or unsure asking a senior employee or leader to informally mentor them. By establishing a formal mentorship program, organizations are taking the guesswork out of mentorship. Additionally, formal mentorship programs offer mentors leadership development on how to best mentor and support mentees.

Developing a Mentorship Program

Management professionals hoping to establish a mentorship program don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Just a quick search can turn up descriptions of mentorship programs used by major companies.

Developing a mentorship program is a collaborative task. Organizational leaders should identify employees to lead the mentorship program, allowing employee stakeholders to collaboratively design the program. You can also following advice from an expert resource, such as , who has written several books on mentorship that discuss best practices and provides tips.

Creating an internal mentorship program might not always be feasible or realistic for every type of organization. In these situations, organizations can still support employees through partnerships with professional organizations within their employees’ industry or role. Professional organizations provide tremendous opportunities for both networking and mentorship.

The Importance of Organizational Management

The 21^st century has experienced dramatic changes in workspace environments and employee needs. Generational changes, a global health crisis and concerns about climate change have all impacted how organizations are managed, and organizations with poor planning and lacking vision are failing.

Smart organizational leaders know the benefits of intentional organizational change management, which provides leaders with a framework to analyze what has happened, what is, and how to reinvent ideas to address today’s challenges and make decisions to meet organizational goals and plan for a sustainable future.

Employee professional development is growing focus of today’s organizational leaders. Nowadays, organizational management professionals need to prioritize their people processes just as much as their business processes if they want to cultivate a loyal, healthy workforce that will help the organization meet their goals and thrive.

������Ƶ offers affordable, fully online business degrees for those who aspire to organizational leadership. Learn more about our M.S. in Organizational Leadership and our MBA. If you’re not quite sure which program is best for you, consult our side-by-side program guide.

While the Ed.D. and Ed.S. are advanced degrees in the field of education, key differences exist. Choosing between these degree options is a highly personal decision that will likely depend on your career goals. This article will provide an overview of both degrees, including a breakdown of the similarities and differences between the intent and requirements for each degree. 

What Is an Ed.D.? 

An Ed.D. is a terminal degree focused on the practice of education. It prepares graduates for leadership roles in educational settings, such as school superintendent, college president, principal, chief learning officer and other administrative positions.  

Essentially, the Ed.D. is a doctoral program designed for professionals who aspire to the highest leadership roles in schools and other educational settings. Ed.D. programs usually include coursework on educational leadership, policy and research. In addition, Ed.D. degrees typically require a dissertation and can commonly be completed in two to three years. 

Ed.D. degrees are similar to doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in that both are considered doctorates and terminal degrees. However, Ph.D. programs are more heavily focused on research and theory. Therefore, someone who pursues a Ph.D. in Education would likely desire roles related to researching and teaching education. Someone with an Ed.D., on the other hand, would take the career path of an educational leader putting theory and research into action. 

You can learn more about Ed.D. vs. Ph.D. degrees here. 

What Is an Ed.S.? 

An Ed.S. degree is a postgraduate degree unique to the field of education. While it is not a doctorate in education, the Ed.S. is considered more advanced than a master’s degree and is designed for educators who want to gain specialized skills and knowledge in a particular area, such as leadership, early childhood education, instructional technology, special education, second language instruction, and curriculum and instruction. 

Unlike the Ed.D., the Ed.S. does not require a dissertation and typically takes one to two years to complete. An Ed.S. can lead to specialized roles such as curriculum specialist, instructional designer, education consultant and assistant principal. 

Who Should Choose an Ed.S. Degree? 

If you want to qualify for a leadership role in education, enhance your credentials and salary, or become specialized in your field, an education specialist degree can help you achieve these goals. There are a handful of primary reasons that pursuing an Ed.S. degree might be more appealing compared to an Ed.D. degree: 

• Cost and time – The Ed.S. requires less money and time than pursuing an Ed.D. 
• No dissertation – The Ed.S. degree does not require a dissertation, which may be appealing if you prefer not to engage in an extensive research study. 
• Career goals – If your goal is to gain specialized skills for a specific role, such as an instructional designer or curriculum specialist, then an Ed.S. might be as beneficial as an Ed.D. 
• Immediate application – The Ed.S. is designed for practical application in educational settings and is often beneficial for individuals seeking to advance in their careers quickly. 
• Stepping stone – The Ed.S. degree can also serve as a stepping stone toward obtaining an Ed.D., as many of the credit hours earned in an Ed.S. degree may be transferrable to an Ed.D. program in the same discipline. 
• Career advancement – The Ed.S. degree provides an opportunity to become more proficient in your field while advancing your career and enhancing your credentials.  

Who Should Choose an Ed.D. Degree? 

Similarly, there are several reasons why pursuing an Ed.D. might be more beneficial than pursuing an Ed.S. degree: 

• Higher leadership roles – The Ed.D. generally prepares students for higher-level leadership roles within school districts or other educational institutions, such as school superintendent, chief learning officer or college president. Most education administrators have Ed.D. degrees. 

• Career flexibility – The Ed.D. may open the door to a broader range of career possibilities than the Ed.S. degree. 

• Broader impact – With an Ed.D., you may be able to make a broader impact in the education field through roles in administration and policymaking. 

• Research possibilities – An Ed.D. involves conducting research (typically a dissertation), which can help you address real-world problems in education and contribute to the body of knowledge in the field. 

• Doctoral scholarships and funding – Pursuing an Ed.D. might make you eligible for scholarships and other funding opportunities unavailable for students pursuing their Ed.S. 

• Prestige and recognition – Unlike the Ed.S., the Ed.D. does confer the title of “Dr.” Thus, you can use the title “Dr.” in front of your name upon graduation. 

What About Pay? 

The expected earnings for individuals with an Ed.D. and an Ed.S. can vary based on several factors, including career path and experience level. While both degrees can lead to highly competitive salaries, in general, the Ed.D. offers higher earning potential. , individuals who earn a doctoral degree in education have relatively high earnings and low unemployment rates. In 2023, doctoral degree holders achieved median weekly earnings of $2,109 and a 1.2% unemployment rate. 

Is an Ed.D. or an Ed.S. a Better Option for Me? 

Both the Ed.D. and the Ed.S. are wonderful graduate-level education degree options for professionals seeking to advance their careers. Choosing between an Ed.D. and an Ed.S. degree ultimately depends on several factors, including your career goals, the impact you aim to have, and your interest in research and leadership. 

For professionals with a master’s degree, an Ed.S. may be an effective way to reach the next level of professional advancement without completing a doctoral degree. Ed.D. programs are recognized for providing a highly impactful and comprehensive educational experience for those interested in earning their doctoral degree. 

At a Glance: Ed.D. vs. Ed.S. 

FAQs About Ed.D. vs. Ed.S. 

Which degree is more advanced? 

The Ed.D. is considered the more advanced degree since it is a terminal degree and at the doctoral-level. The Ed.S. is considered a post-master’s degree. 

Can I become a school principal with an Ed.S.? 

Yes, many school districts accept an Ed.S. for principalship and other administrative roles. 

What is the difference between Ed.S. and Ed.D. degrees? 

An Ed.S. focuses on specialized skills and advanced practice of a specific role within education. An Ed.D. has an emphasize on broader leadership and policy positions. 

Is an Ed.D. considered a doctorate? 

Yes, an Ed.D. is a doctoral degree aimed at professionals in the education sector. It is typically a common doctorate for education administrators to have. 

Can I earn an Ed.S. and then pursue an Ed.D.? 

Yes, you can earn an Ed.S. first, then apply your credit hours towards an Ed.D. program if you decide to pursue further education. 

������Ƶ offers high-quality, fully online Ed.D. a�Ի� Ed.S. programs that can help you reach your career goals. With Ed.D. degrees under $24,000* and Ed.S. degrees under $13,000,* our affordable and flexible programs can make your educational dreams a reality. 

*All values shown are an estimated value of the cost of tuition and fees. Actual amounts may vary depending on the number of transfer credits applied to the selected program hours, the pace and satisfactory completion of the selected program, the receipt of scholarship or grant amounts, or adjustments to tuition or fees as described in the Catalog Right to Modify Tuition section. State sales and use tax will apply where required by law. 

ACE: We’re thrilled to announce the new M.Ed. in Instructional Design and Educational Technology degree program! It’s a great professional development opportunity for those seeking educational technology careers as well as instructional design careers. Tell us about the learning outcomes that graduates of this program expect. 

Dr. Cathy McKay (CM): The M.Ed. in Instructional Design and Educational Technology program uniquely combines two critical fields in modern education. Instructional design focuses on systematically developing educational experiences by analyzing learning needs and creating effective teaching strategies. Educational technology involves using technological tools to enhance learning outcomes and engagement. By integrating these disciplines, graduates can create tech-enhanced learning designs, implement data-driven instruction and develop innovative, interactive learning experiences that go beyond traditional teaching methods. 

The program equips students with skills to build interactive online courses, incorporating elements such as storyboarding, gamification, artificial intelligence (AI) and audiovisual presentations. Storyboarding helps in visually mapping course structure and flow. Gamification applies game design elements to increase engagement and motivation. AI can be utilized for personalized learning paths and intelligent tutoring systems. Audiovisual presentations make complex concepts more accessible through multimedia elements like videos and interactive graphics. 

Creating exciting and informative course deliveries is crucial in today’s educational landscape. Such courses enhance student engagement, improve learning outcomes and cater to diverse learning styles. They prepare students for an increasingly digital world while sparking curiosity and intrinsic motivation for lifelong learning. Moreover, engaging courses can lead to better retention and completion rates, especially in online courses. By focusing on interactive and informative content, educators can significantly enhance the learning experience, producing better-prepared graduates and fostering more effective education overall. 

ACE: At ACE, we prioritize offering fully online learning that provides an accessible and affordable pathway to career development. What kinds of roles and jobs will a graduate of this program be prepared for? 

CM: A graduate from the M.Ed. in Instructional Design and Educational Technology program will find numerous career opportunities across diverse sectors. The demand for instructional designers and educational technologists has grown significantly in recent years, particularly in corporate training, e-learning development and the tech industry. This surge is largely due to the increasing emphasis on remote learning and digital transformation in various organizations. 

The program not only opens doors to entry-level positions but also provides a strong foundation for career advancement. Graduates often start in roles such as instructional coordinator, instructional designer or e-learning developer, progressing to senior instructional designer or learning experience designer positions. With experience, they may advance to leadership roles such as learning and development manager, director of instructional design or chief learning officer. 

The versatility of the skillset acquired in this program allows graduates to transition between different sectors, including K-12 education, higher education, corporate training, government agencies and various industries, adapting their expertise to meet the unique learning needs of each environment. 

ACE: Tell us how the program equips graduates with the skills needed to thrive in the field of instructional design as it pertains to key components like educational materials, learning environments and course design. 

CM: This program offers a comprehensive approach to equipping students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to create effective online course experiences across diverse educational settings, such as K-12, higher education, corporate training programs and professional development. By learning how theory and design are interconnected, students gain a deeper understanding of instructional strategies and can create more engaging and impactful learning experiences. 

Students learn to collaborate with subject matter experts, enhancing their ability to develop accurate and relevant content. Additionally, students acquire valuable technical skills in video creation and editing, as well as incorporating interactive elements into their courses. These skills are particularly valuable in today’s digital learning landscape, where demand for high-quality online education continues to grow. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of educational institutions and businesses, positioning themselves as versatile professionals capable of designing and implementing effective online learning solutions. 

ACE: What makes the program unique from similar master’s degree programs? 

CM: In this program, students receive a comprehensive education that combines research-based foundational knowledge with practical application opportunities. The curriculum is carefully structured to build upon itself, with each course expanding on the concepts and skills learned in previous classes. This progressive approach allows students to develop a deep understanding of the subject matter while simultaneously honing their practical abilities. 

As students advance through the program, they engage in hands-on projects that challenge them to apply their growing knowledge base to real-world scenarios. This integration of theory and practice ensures that graduates not only possess a solid theoretical foundation but also the practical skills highly valued by employers in the industry. 

The culmination of this educational journey is particularly noteworthy. By the program’s conclusion, students will have completed a fully designed product — a tangible representation of their accumulated knowledge and skills. This final project serves as a powerful portfolio piece, providing graduates with a concrete example of their capabilities to showcase to potential employers. Such a comprehensive demonstration of both theoretical understanding and practical proficiency can significantly enhance graduates’ competitiveness in the job market. 

The emphasis on creating a fully designed product throughout the course of study is a distinguishing feature. Many programs may offer theoretical knowledge or isolated practical exercises, but the continuous development of a comprehensive project throughout the curriculum sets this program apart from other related degree programs. 

The integration of foundational knowledge with practical application, the progressive building of skills and the creation of a portfolio-ready final product are compelling reasons to choose this program. Graduates will be well-prepared for real-world challenges in the field of instructional design. 

Developing a complete product from concept to execution, while integrating knowledge from various courses, is a valuable skill set in many industries. This program emphasizes project management, iterative development and the ability to see a complex project through from start to finish — skills that are highly transferable and sought after by employers. 

ACE: The field of instructional design is growing alongside education in general. How does higher education, specifically a master’s degree, catapult curriculum development professionals and instructional designers to the next level of their careers? 

CM: Higher education, specifically a master’s degree that covers both educational technology and instructional design, equips students with a robust foundation of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for career advancement in the field. Throughout the program, students explore learning theories, best practices and real-world applications, positioning themselves as experts in curriculum development, student engagement, and assessment and evaluation strategies. 

This comprehensive education goes beyond mere theory, as students engage in hands-on projects that bridge the gap between academic concepts and practical implementation. For instance, they might develop e-learning modules, design adaptive learning systems or create comprehensive instructional plans for diverse educational settings. These applied projects not only reinforce theoretical understanding but also build a portfolio of work that demonstrates their ability to solve complex educational challenges. 

As a result, graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles and promotions within their organizations. They possess the skills to drive innovation in learning technologies, lead instructional design teams and shape educational policies. By mastering both the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of the field, these professionals are poised to make significant contributions to the evolving landscape of education and training across various sectors. 

Individuals seeking a career in instructional design or educational technology should view the M.Ed. in Instructional Design and Educational Technology program page to learn more.��

Approximately 1.9 million new healthcare jobs will be available, on average, each year through 2033, .  Additionally, healthcare administration management positions are .  One of the best ways to take advantage of this growing sector is to obtain higher levels of education and credentials that focus on healthcare administration competencies and leadership.

Specifically, those seeking advanced careers in healthcare administration are likely to obtain a Master of Healthcare Administration, or MHA, to gain the management, leadership and strategic skills needed to lead the charge in today’s ever-evolving healthcare landscape. But busy professionals are often just that, busy. The question then remains, is an MHA worth the time and financial commitment?

Oftentimes, when considering if a degree program is worth it, it helps to identify the return on investment. This doesn’t necessarily refer only to a financial return – there are other factors to consider, like career advancement and job satisfaction. As mentioned, we already know that the career outlook for healthcare administration is growing, and the median salary is a healthy six figures. Among these returns, MHA graduates are prepared for robust career paths in a variety of healthcare sectors.

The versatility of an MHA can lead graduates to work in roles like:

• Medical or health services manager
• Nursing home administrator
• Healthcare executive
• Hospital administrator
• Practice administrator
• Director of nursing
• Healthcare consultant

This, of course, is an exemplary list and is only a drop in the bucket of the wealth of opportunities in healthcare. In sum, these pathways involve the administrative leadership of a healthcare facility, clinic or organization that provides medical and health services. These individuals keep healthcare processes organized so nurses and providers can focus on their commitment to excellent patient care.

What Is an MHA Degree?

An MHA degree equips healthcare professionals with advanced healthcare administration skills like human resources, finance, marketing and technology. Additionally, it prepares graduates for leadership and management roles that require excellent communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, professionalism and more.

There are a few top priorities that the most robust MHA degree programs should have: technology and leadership coursework developed through data-driven insights and relevant research.

Let’s touch on technology and its evolving importance. Individuals seeking to earn an MHA degree should select one with relevant, research-based technology coursework. Technology has become a critical aspect of not only healthcare administration, but all facets of the healthcare industry. Information systems, data management and data analytics play a key role in healthcare administration, so a robust MHA degree should prepare graduates for such responsibilities. A great example is the MHA degree program at ������Ƶ (ACE). The program includes coursework that specifically focuses on information systems management.

Additionally, an MHA degree program should include leadership theory coursework in the context of individual leadership and organizational behavioral theories. Courses should utilize real-world examples to study effective leadership concepts like problem solving, risk taking, team building and conflict management. Again, programs such as the one at ACE aim to create better leaders with applicable skillsets that equip them to make better decisions and positively affect healthcare organizations and, ultimately, health outcomes. Institutions like ACE who offer fully online programming at an affordable cost can make the financial and time commitments of a master’s degree program more attainable and accessible.

MHA degree programs must also prioritize data-driven insights and research in curricula. Good leaders making good decisions improve organizations, but to make good decisions, it’s important to not only have the right data available, but to ensure the data is being interpreted in an optimal manner. Coursework should help graduates develop research skills that will translate to the real world. The goal is for graduates to apply what they’ve learned to employ evidence-based research and data compilation to enhance decision making and foster innovation.

What Can an MHA Degree Do for You?

While entry-level healthcare administration jobs are attainable with a high school diploma or associate degree, individuals seeking an advanced career should consider a master’s degree. As healthcare administration professionals grow in their careers, the natural educational progression is a bachelor’s degree and then a master’s degree, such as an MHA or Master of Healthcare Management degree.

As a healthcare professional advances through their career, more responsibility usually results in an increased focus on leadership and management. In midlevel to advanced stages of a healthcare administration career, leading and managing direct reports becomes as important as healthcare administration competencies, if not more so. More administration and leadership experience, responsibility and education not only generally result in more career opportunities and increased salaries, but also greater job security. An MHA can help individuals reach this higher level of their healthcare administration career.

Let’s talk specifically about salary potential for MHA graduates. There is a wide range of salaries in healthcare administration depending on location, organization, experience and responsibility. Just like with most fields, the more experience someone has in the industry, the higher the salary. However, time and experience alone don’t necessarily impact salary the way one might expect.

When experience leads to greater responsibility and leadership opportunities, there is often a higher expectation of education. Academic credentials alone generally do not result in a significantly higher salary, but when supplemented with meaningful experience, earning an MHA can open doors to a promotion or a different position with more responsibility, which can result in a higher salary. Some higher level positions might require advanced degrees. MHA graduates are positioned for roles with salaries that can range from higher five figures to six figures, depending on the position, as shown in below.

Career Opportunities With an MHA

Let’s dive into a more detailed look at .

Financial Management

Healthcare facilities are ultimately businesses, and they need financial managers to oversee budgets, spending projections, investments, insurance and more. MHA graduates who specialize or focus in accounting or financial management are prepared to support such needs and serve hospitals or other healthcare facilities in this way.

Manpower Systems Analysis

Operating a healthcare facility or organization requires adequate staffing and personnel resources. MHA graduates are equipped to manage and oversee how to best allocate resources and ensure a human capital pipeline that effectively supports patient needs. Proper coverage is often the driver of patient care quality, so a role like this is critical to optimum healthcare facility operation.

Administrative Manager

Health administrators are critical to successful healthcare facility or organization operation. Employee schedules, staff training, and ensuring polices and procedures are implemented are among the various responsibilities for this career. MHA graduates can provide exemplary service in these areas with an overarching goal to ensure all is running smoothly.

Hospital Management or Human Resources

Running a hospital or healthcare organization requires extensive experience, and of course, an advanced degree. MHA graduates can manage the needs of hospitals and similar facilities to allow providers, nurses and other healthcare professionals focus on quality patient care. Responsibilities of a healthcare manager might include patient advocacy, strategic planning and more. Further, MHA graduates who focus on human resources are prepared to discern candidacy of the facility’s employees and assure qualified providers are hired.

Patient Advocacy

As healthcare is a service provided to patients, there are undoubtedly circumstances where patients may not be satisfied with their care. These scenarios require an experienced, educated healthcare administration professional to step in and serve as a liaison between patients and providers. MHA graduates are equipped to problem solve and collaborate in a professional manner that assures quality healthcare services as well as advocacy that improves patient outcomes.

These areas are just a few examples of the endless opportunities that come with earning an MHA. At the end of the day, an MHA degree is a strong pathway to career advancement in healthcare administration. The need for such professionals continues to evolve as the healthcare landscape grows exponentially. Healthcare administration professionals are unsung heroes behind the scenes of medical system success, and it’s a rewarding career that is sure to satisfy an individual committed to seeing today’s healthcare setting flourish.

Explore a Master of Healthcare Administration program that is flexible, affordable and fits within your busy schedule.

What is Corporate Social Responsibility?

Corporations around the globe have adopted CSR into their business practices to address social issues and make a positive impact on society. CSR is a model that applies to decision-making, company policies, business operations, community impact and employee relations. This approach to business often stems from stakeholders demanding that corporations act responsibly and demonstrate ethical behavior in their local communities. However, it’s become something consumers and employees increasingly want to see as well, choosing to only engage with responsible companies and brands.

Consumers want to know how products are made, where they come from and how they affect the environment. They want to shop at businesses that promote and follow philanthropic responsibility. Communities want to welcome businesses that provide local employment opportunities and competitive wages, care about the environment and support local initiatives. Employees want to work for employers who care about their wellness, encourage professional development and growth, and offer flexible scheduling for life needs. All these examples fall under the umbrella of CSR.

Corporations that follow CSR practices are often committed to programs that address employee wellness, environmental responsibility and other societal needs. The purpose of CSR is to guide corporations to have a positive impact on the world.

The Power of B Corporations

Some for-profit businesses have chosen to take their sustainability commitment a step further by becoming , more commonly referred to as B Corps. Earning this designation means that a business is operating for the greater good and utilizing its practices in a way that benefits both people and planet.

Organizations with this designation, like ������Ƶ, have elected to take the B Impact Assessment, which is a digital tool used by more than 150,000 businesses to assess and identify needed improvements to ensure positive impact performance for environment, community, consumerism, supply, employment and shareholders.

Corporations with this legal distinction have more flexibility than traditional corporations that must focus on shareholder primacy. Benefit corporations have legal protection to address stakeholder governance before shareholder primacy, meaning benefit corporations can make decisions based on their mission and vision statements, rather than fiscal reasons.

Skills Needed to Work in CSR

CSR professionals should be proficient in skills like active listening, transparent communication, critical thinking, systems thinking, creative thinking, public relations, stakeholder engagement and problem-solving. A CSR professional needs to engage with internal and external stakeholders, so it’s important to have effective communication skills, flexibility and empathy as well.

Often those who work in and support CSR are change agents. According to , a change agent is “action-oriented leader who seeks to improve an organization’s logistical, technical and interpersonal functions by changing policies, systems, processes or operational norms.” This operational-focused mindset, along with strong interpersonal skills, is critical to ensuring a corporation is both implementing and following current CSR best practices.

Tips for Building a Career in CSR

Developing a genuine and effective CSR strategy is a complicated endeavor, which is why corporations have sought expert advice and developed CSR career positions, such as sustainability directors and coordinators. A focus on CSR initiatives have created the need for consultants, offering opportunities for entrepreneurship. Working as a CSR professional involves working across diverse industries and business sectors.

With the growth of corporations seeking employees with CSR knowledge, more and more business professionals are considering corporate social responsibility careers. Post-secondary institutions with their pulse on industry trends have developed curricula to address this need. How does a college graduate jump from coursework to real-world experience? Below are suggestions to help you pursue a career in corporate social responsibility.

1. Get Involved

An essential part of CSR is community engagement. For example, a sustainability coordinator might organize a community project where employees volunteer to help plant trees at a local park. Therefore, applicants seeking CSR positions should share past involvement in community-focused events. A community might be the city where you live, a school, an employer, a nonprofit organization, a church or other groups.

In interviews, you’ll want to describe how you positively engage in your community. Your role might have been as a leader, volunteer, participant or employee. Reflect on your experiences and what you learned. Questions to guide your reflection can include:

• How did the community communicate internally and externally?
• How did the community set goals and objectives?
• What styles of leadership were observed within the community?

Nonprofit organizations around the globe are working to address and solve sustainability challenges. The best way to get involved is through a nonprofit organization. They have the systems, structures and skills to organize and manage volunteer engagement. That’s what they do best!

Volunteering for a nonprofit organization offers you the opportunity to work directly with a specific interest. For example, and support healthy trees and forests. Seek out what nonprofits are in your community to make the most impact where you live.

2. Develop a Professional Learning Network

Professional learning networks (PLNs) are meaningful, purposeful communities that support professional growth. They offer informal and formal learning, mentorship, sponsorship, job recommendations and skill-based support.

Thanks to technology and social media, PLNs can be developed online. Dr. Dave Mulder, a professor of education at Dordt University, is an expert in developing PLNs online. He advises his students to approach social media with a growth mindset and by asking the question, “I have five minutes. What can I learn today?”

You can also develop a PLN through the people you know. Do you have a group of peers interested in similar professions or working for specific industries? For example, your colleagues at work, classmates at school or acquaintances through other professional settings. They could be interested in being a part of a group that shares knowledge and information. As mentioned above, you can use social media as a platform for discussing topics and sharing information; however, you can also organize in-person or online-based meetings to connect in a live setting.

The nice part about establishing an online platform is that you can engage with the PLN as you are available. These kinds of networks are meant to function as a supportive community of peers and should be a benefit instead of a hindrance. Sometimes you might have more time to engage than others, but that is okay and expected. These networks are meant to be enjoyable, and groups can create guidelines and expectations that work best for the collective.

3. Join a Professional Organization

Joining a professional organization, such as the , is a terrific way to stay connected with others in your field. There are numerous sustainability organizations nationwide and globally. Since there is generally a membership fee, take time to research and learn about an organization before joining. If it isn’t a suitable time to pay for a membership, that’s okay! The organization should have an email distribution list you can sign up for to receive newsletters and other emails.

4. Create an Online Portfolio

Show off your knowledge and skills in an online portfolio. Online portfolios offer an innovative way to highlight your experience, projects and goals.

Unsure of where to start? You can include:

• CSR initiatives or related projects that demonstrate your creativity and innovation
• Your resume
• Photos from events you attended
• Your personal statement on diversity, equity and inclusion
• Your career and personal goals
• Referral statements from professional references
• Snippets of scholarly writing

Then, you can link the portfolio to your resume/CV, making it easily accessible to potential employers.

5. Seek Mentorship and Sponsorship

You are most likely familiar with the idea of mentorship. However, sponsorship is a valuable relationship that can propel careers. Sponsorship is what referred to as, “phase two of mentorship.” A professional sponsor goes beyond the expectations of mentorship by adding advocacy to their role. Omadeke described a sponsor as someone who is willing to recommend you for employment and help expand your visibility within an organization. Thus, a sponsor is putting their reputation on the line, which is why it is important to first establish a mentorship relationship to build trust and confidence in your abilities and knowledge.

Your current employer might offer a mentorship program or, if you’re job hunting, you might seek out employment with a company that promotes their investment in professional development. It also never hurts to ask someone you admire to be your mentor to help guide you to your professional goals.

The above suggestions can help jumpstart you into a career in CSR. It’s important to note that CSR strategies can be applied to any job or career. Having these skills means you are considerate of others, knowledgeable of sustainability and the triple bottom line, able to perform systems thinking and able to engage in continuous learning to stay updated with research and stakeholder needs.

Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills you need to build a fulfilling career in corporate social responsibility from a college that puts its own social responsibility first. Explore ������Ƶ’s fully online business programs.

ACE: Congratulations on receiving the 2024 Faculty Award for Excellence! What does receiving this award mean to you?

Dr. Maricela Helm (MH): Thank you! I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a profession that I love, surrounded by passionate and dedicated individuals. Working with future administrators who will make significant impacts in their communities is both inspiring and rewarding. Knowing that I have a role in their journey is a privilege, and it fills me with hope and excitement for the future.

ACE: Can you tell us a little about your career and what led you to ACE?

(MH): I have had a fulfilling career in education, starting as a teacher, then moving on to become a campus administrator and now serving at the district level. Over the years, I have witnessed the role of educators evolve in both positive and challenging ways.

In my experience, the position that holds the most potential for impact within our school districts is that of the campus administrator. A well-equipped administrator who can persevere and inspire can not only transform the lives of students and teachers but also shift the dynamics of the entire community. It’s clear to me that the more we can equip future principals to step into these roles confidently and competently, the more effective they will be and the longer they will remain committed to their positions.

Coming to ACE has provided me with the incredible opportunity to contribute to this vital aspect of education. At ACE, I can help prepare and support future administrators, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge and resilience needed to make a lasting impact.

ACE: What have you enjoyed the most about being part of ACE’s instructional faculty?

(MH): What I have enjoyed the most is the incredible opportunity to meet staff and students from all over the world. I am continually inspired by the wisdom of our diverse faculty, who bring a wealth of experience from a wide array of careers.

Additionally, I deeply appreciate the growth mindset that ACE embodies. The organization is always seeking ways to improve and innovate, which aligns perfectly with my own values and passion for continuous learning.

ACE: Your instrumental involvement in the Academic Clarity Initiative and commitment to relevant curriculum development has excellently showcased the ACE mission. What inspired your passion for these projects?

(MH): Both initiatives truly prioritize student feedback and incorporate the latest research. Developing course content that is not only relevant but also designed in a way that students find meaningful is one of my favorite aspects of being part of ACE.

My passion for these projects is fueled by a natural drive to improve learning experiences for students and to put their needs first. Seeing firsthand how these initiatives positively impact student engagement and learning outcomes is incredibly rewarding.

ACE: What advice would you give to those aspiring to faculty positions?

(MH): My advice would be to build strong relationships with colleagues and students. In the end, it’s the relationships with the people we encounter along our journey that make the biggest difference. These connections enrich our professional lives and leave a lasting impact on our students’ lives. Prioritizing these relationships and being genuinely invested in the success of others will inspire and empower those around you, making your role as a faculty member truly meaningful.

������Ƶ offers a variety of leadership programs where you can learn from faculty like Dr. Helm. Learn more��here.

When pursuing a doctoral degree, there are different tracks that prospective students can take. To help you determine what type of doctoral degree will best serve your career aspirations, here is a breakdown of the key differences between Ed.D. and Ph.D. degrees.

What is an Ed.D.?

An Ed.D., which is short for Doctor of Education, is a practitioner-focused degree that is designed for professionals aspiring to leadership roles in a variety of educational fields. You can typically complete an Ed.D. program in two to three years.

What is a Ph.D.?

Short for Doctor of Philosophy, a Ph.D. is a degree that is more heavily focused on research and theory.  Ph.D. programs typically take five or more years to complete. (As a personal example, I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from a research-intensive program that required a five-year, full-time commitment.)

What are the main similarities between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

Both degrees are at the doctoral-level and are considered terminal degrees. In other words, they represent the highest level of education that can be earned in a particular field. In addition, both degrees take multiple years to complete, and both degrees require a fair amount of writing and research.

What are the main differences between an Ed.D. and a Ph.D.?

One of the primary differences between these degrees is that the Ed.D. is more focused on practical applications, while the Ph.D. is more geared toward theory and original research. Additionally, Ed.D. programs usually have a lower cost and shorter time to completion compared to Ph.D. programs.

What are some common career options for those with an Ed.D.?

The Ed.D. is an outstanding option for individuals who wish to lead others and implement change in their organizations. Moreover, the Ed.D. is a focused degree with a wide range of career options, including:

• College or university president
• Dean
• Director of human resources
• Educational consultant
• Policymaker or analyst
• Principal
• Provost
• Superintendent

What are some common career options for those with a Ph.D.?

A Ph.D. degree is ideal for anyone interested in pursuing a career in research, academia, educational consulting or policy analysis. Career opportunities with a Ph.D. may include:

• Community developer
• Consultant
• Director of research
• Human resource manager
• Policy analyst
• Program manager
• Research analyst
• Statistician

What are the employment projections for doctoral degree holders?

, individuals who earn a doctoral degree in education have relatively high earnings and also have low unemployment rates.  In 2023, doctoral degree holders achieved median weekly earnings of $2,109 and a 1.2% unemployment rate. In comparison, master’s degree holders attained median weekly earnings of $1,737 and an unemployment rate of 2%.

Additionally, the job outlook is very strong for and , two professions where doctoral degrees are often required. (Postsecondary education is defined as education beyond the high school level and is often tied to higher education institutions.) According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, postsecondary teachers in 2023 earned a median annual pay of $83,380 and there is projected job growth of 8% for 2022 – 2032.  For postsecondary education administrators in 2023, the median annual pay was $102,610 per year with a projected job growth of 4% for 2022 – 2032.

Is an Ed.D. or a Ph.D. better?

Both the Ed.D. and the Ph.D. are advanced degrees that represent the highest levels of academic achievement. Regardless of which path an individual ultimately chooses, there is high potential for career advancement.

Ultimately, the best option for you comes down to your preferred path, career goals and values.�� If you are seeking a job as a researcher and scholar, a Ph.D. is better aligned to your goals.�� If you are more interested in seeking leadership positions that blend practice with research, an Ed.D. may be an ideal path toward your personal and professional goals.

At a glance: Ed.D. vs. Ph.D.

������Ƶ offers high-quality, fully online Ed.D. programs for under $24,000, designed to help students build their leadership capacity through practical applications of research theories. Learn more about our doctoral degrees here.

Why Should You Get a Master’s Degree in STEM Education?

To build your career on a solid foundation, you first must discover your passion within the incredibly broad STEM universe. It’s essential to identify the specific area that ignites your curiosity as well as aligns with your natural strengths. A good master’s degree program in STEM education will address all aspects of STEM in a variety of ways, from lesson planning to technology integration, all for a variety of grade levels.

Your degree program should also guide you through science, technology, engineering and mathematics through the lens of learning theories, curriculum alignment and real-world scenarios you can use in the classroom. Immersing yourself in real-world experiences will help you engage your learners later, allowing you to satisfy their curiosity and inquiries.

Pursuing a master’s degree should not only give you the opportunity to learn from a faculty expert, but also from the experience of your classmates and peers. This is where online programs excel – the M.Ed. in STEM Education program at ������Ƶ connects you with educators from all over the globe. Through discussion boards and informal conversations outside the virtual classroom, our students love sharing experience and knowledge with each other.

What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in STEM Education?

Once you have your master’s degree in hand, there are a ton of career options available to you. If you are already an educator, you’ll have additional knowledge of pedagogy and andragogy to help you take on a larger role in STEM education, such as planning, organizing and managing STEM-related activities, events and initiatives in schools or other educational environments. 

You can also be a curriculum developer or a subject matter expert for an instructional designer. Many STEM programs in schools, nonprofits or government organizations need STEM-educated personnel to assist with their events or initiatives. With the expertise that you obtain from a STEM education master’s degree, you can be the expert in the room with the knowledge and skills to help build a STEM program.

In schools and nonprofits, there is a high need for STEM program coordinators or administrators. Your STEM education degree will show that you have the body of knowledge in STEM subjects that you need to be successful in these positions. Later in your career, you can leverage the experience you’ve gained from these positions to become an education consultant, offering services to educational institutions, government agencies or private organizations.

STEM has become a field that’s growing exponentially in both schools and other education facilities. There is a plethora of opportunities both in schools and other organizations for an impactful and important career. A master’s degree in STEM education could be your key to building yours!

At ������Ƶ, we put the practice of education into each one of our courses. In our fully online M.Ed. in STEM Education, you’ll learn about theories and theoretical frameworks but, more importantly, you’ll learn about how theories are such a vital foundation for educational curriculum and activities.

Please remember to use AI tools responsibly and read before using an AI tool for an assignment.

Brainstorming Topics

Ask your favorite AI chatbot to help you generate ideas for your topic. Here are some prompt examples:

“I need ideas for my research project on artificial intelligence in medicine. Can you suggest some potential research questions or topics?”

“I’m writing a blog post about textile design. Could you help me brainstorm industry trends?”

“How have recent developments in technology impacted early childhood education?”

Generating Synonyms

AI chatbots are excellent at providing synonyms that you can use in your keyword searches.

“Can you suggest synonyms for the term ‘online learning’?”

“Can you suggest other ways to write ‘teacher shortage’?”

Understanding Complex Topics

Ask an AI chatbot to simplify topics so that they are easier to understand.

“Can you explain a neural network in simple terms?”

“What is the difference between artificial intelligence and machine learning, and how are they applied in real-world scenarios? Please explain it to me as if I am 10 years old.”

Summarizing Articles

If you find an open access article or one that is available on the internet, you can ask the AI chatbot to summarize it for you. Please note: Articles found in the ACE Library cannot be uploaded into AI tools as it violates copyright policy.

“Can you summarize the key findings of the following article?”

“Please provide a concise summary of the main arguments presented in this research paper about renewable energy.”

Finding Sources

AI tools can generate a list of articles, papers and other sources that might be relevant to your research. AI tools such as and help you find additional research articles quickly. You enter a detailed research question or the DOI of an article and the tool recommends other articles on the topic as well as similar topics. Not all the articles will be fully accessible, but you can then search for those articles in the library or request them through interlibrary loan. You should always find the original source of the material before using it in your research.

Cite Your Source

If you directly quote or paraphrase information obtained from an AI tool, make sure you follow your institutional guidelines on how to cite it as a source. While the American Psychological Association (APA) has not released official guidelines on citing generative AI yet, provides guidance on citing ChatGPT and is adaptable to other AI tools. AI chatbots are just one tool among many that you can use for your research, but they could help save you time at the beginning of the research process. Try experimenting with one of the many options available to see if adding an AI tool to your digital toolbox is right for you.

������Ƶ provides you with up-to-date resources and strategies to help you make the most of your learning. Learn more about our student support here.

One critical segment of the healthcare industry is healthcare administration. Healthcare administrators are the backbone of the healthcare industry. They’re responsible for a wide variety of important functions in health organizations, from patient intake at local clinics to executive-level decision making that can impact regional and national health organizations.

What jobs can you get with a degree in healthcare administration?

Some potential career paths for a healthcare administrator include an administrator or human resources specialist at a hospital, clinic, assisted living facility or other health organization. You could also focus on areas within healthcare that have cross-industry applications, such as a medical records, information management specialist, finance or coding specialist at a health organization. As you progress along your career path and take on more leadership responsibility, you could grow into manager or director roles within your specialty. This experience can then be leveraged to assume manager or director roles for an entire healthcare facility or health organization, or even for executive director positions for a healthcare system.

What do you do as a healthcare administrator?

At the basic entry level position, a healthcare administrator’s day to day function will depend on the requirements of the position and organization, but most healthcare administrators will need to be proficient in interpersonal communication and data entry in software suites required for scheduling, coordination, forms or billing.

For example, a clinic coordinator might be responsible for scheduling patient visits and ensuring patient data is up to date in the system. Healthcare administrators in this position would need to interface with patients and ensure their information is entered correctly in the system. This is an important job, since incorrect information could result in issues with insurance and billing, which would not only impact the healthcare organization, but would also create headaches for the patient, as anyone who has ever had a claim denied due to a clerical error can attest.

What education do you need to work in healthcare administration?

A successful career in healthcare administration starts with education. An associate degree, either an AS or AAS, is a good gateway to a career as a healthcare administrator. An AS or AAS can help you obtain a variety of entry level positions in healthcare administration and the healthcare industry.

When you are ready to take on more responsibility and transition to a leadership (and higher paying) role, a bachelor’s degree is beneficial to career progression. Programs like ACE’s fully online bachelor’s-completion program in healthcare administration will give you the foundational skills and knowledge to pursue leadership roles in health administration within a variety of healthcare settings. ACE’s program engages in application-based coursework, where you’ll learn how to analyze complex health data to promote evidence-based decision-making. The curriculum emphasizes the role of globalization, diversity, community health, interdisciplinary collaboration and resource allocation in creating an effective balance in managing healthcare costs, quality and access.

Of course, education can be a challenge for working professionals with a full-time job and other personal obligations. Fully online programs like ACE’s bachelor’s degree are great options for those who need to learn on their own schedule. At ACE, classes are asynchronous and qualified professors are only an email away if you have questions or need assistance. ACE also has a plethora of additional student supports and resources, such as individualized student success coaches and free access to Tutor.com.

A bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration is a solid foundation on which to build a fulfilling career in healthcare administration, one that can lead to manager, director and other leadership positions that truly drive the landscape of healthcare forward. If you have a drive to guide the planning, policy and operations of health organizations, creating a system that ensures efficient operations, data-driven decision making and, ultimately, positive patient outcomes, this is the career path for you.

������Ƶ is ready to help you build a rewarding career in healthcare administration. With our fully online bachelor’s-completion and master’s degree in healthcare administration, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need for the jobs you want.

Learn how to search like a pro.

You may be an expert at “Googling it,” but academic databases require different search techniques. Watch an introductory video or attend a library webinar to learn how to search a database most efficiently. If your library doesn’t offer instructional videos, you will find that each database vendor does. Use those Google skills to go to a vendor’s website such as or . Visit their support sections for videos and tutorials on how to use their databases.

Set aside time.

There’s an art to searching an academic database and your results won’t be instantaneous. Give yourself time to try different keywords and learn how to use advanced search functions. Keep a notebook or whiteboard handy to jot down keyword ideas or author names as you search. Thorough research takes time! The more you practice searching, the better you’ll get at it. 

Follow the clues left by other researchers.

Use the references from one of the articles in your reserved reading list, or a book you’ve found in the library, and find related texts that the author used for their research. If you see an author’s name that appears often in your research, look them up to see if they have written more works on your subject. If that subject matter expert works for a particular organization, look up its website to see if they have resources you can use.

Get organized in a way that works best for you.

There are lots of ways to manage your references. You can keep a spreadsheet, a spiral notebook or use a web-based citation manager like , or . Save your articles in folders on your computer by course or chapter. Create a system that makes the most sense to you so you can keep your research organized and easy to access.

Think outside of the library.

If you have access to an academic library, you will be able to search through thousands of subscription journals and e-books to find the resources you need. But there are many other places to find great resources. and the can direct you to open access articles which do not need a subscription. You may also find statistical data and articles on government or business organization websites, like the or the . is a free digital library providing access to all kinds of books and cultural resources.

Get help.

Librarianship is a service field. We provide access to information and we teach you how to access it yourself. If you have a question, reach out to a librarian. If you don’t have a public or academic library easily accessible, most online libraries offer live chat or at least email. Many also provide instructional tutorials or video guides to help people learn how to search the library at their own pace. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Librarians are specially trained and excited to help you find what you need.

������Ƶ’s robust library and responsive college librarians are just some of the resources we provide our students to help them find success. To learn more about our student support, watch our virtual open house.

The push for sustainable development gained substantial attention in 2015 when the published “Transforming Our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” which listed seventeen goals for nations around the world to accomplish by 2030. The UN Nation Members unanimously agreed to the 15-year goal and signed up for the challenge. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda, was “the dawn of a new era towards eradicating poverty, transforming economies and protecting the planet.”

An Emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility

The UN’s call for sustainable development created a need for sustainability-minded leaders. Leadership decisions are an essential factor in sustainable development. The UN’s challenge, along with demands from stakeholders, led to numerous business leaders deciding to implement corporate social responsibility (CSR) into their decision-making and companies’ daily practices.

Governments oversee businesses through various regulations, such as environmental policies addressing air pollution, water use and waste management, to name a few. However, beyond meeting minimum regulation standards, there are no laws requiring businesses to adopt sustainability practices. Therefore, when we observe businesses promoting their sustainability efforts, those businesses are following self-imposed sustainability goals.

Typically, businesses share their CSR efforts and outcomes with stakeholders through annual reports. Other ways businesses promote their CSR accomplishments are through various mediums, such as emails, newsletters, websites and company blogs. But knowing CSR is a self-reporting business model meant to help, , “a company be socially accountable to itself, its stakeholders, and the public” you might wonder, how do we know a business is meeting standard sustainability objectives?

is a nonprofit organization encouraging and supporting businesses in CSR practices. It’s best known for certifying businesses as B Corporations, known by their nickname as B Corps. B Corps are broad and diverse, found across numerous industries. (Famous brands include Patagonia, TOMS, Athleta, Ben & Jerry’s and Warby Parker. In 2016, ������Ƶ also became a Certified B Corp.) Businesses that become certified through B Lab have aligned their organizational goals with the UNs’ global agenda for sustainable development, pledging themselves to be measured against standards that are more objective than just self-reported metrics.

Preparing for Jobs in Sustainability

The rising focus on sustainability has created a need for business professionals with knowledge in this area, along with roles that focus on improving a company’s sustainability efforts. Those who wish to pursue jobs and careers in this area will need sustainability education.

The purpose of sustainability education is to increase students’ sustainability literacy. According to higher education professionals , sustainability literacy is “having the understanding, skills, attitudes and attributes to take informed action for the benefit of oneself and others, now and into a long-term future.”

The colleges and universities who have a pulse on industry trends are incorporating sustainability education into their curriculum, from revising courses to include topics of sustainability to new courses and programs with sustainability concentrations.

At ACE, for example, students can specialize their business degree in sustainability through a dedicated focus of study. This coursework prepares students to lead their communities and organizations in addressing sustainability issues and is available to students in any business program, whether it’s the MBA, M.S. in Organizational Leadership or M.Ed. in Educational Business Administration. Students learn:

• How various business structures incorporate sustainability, examining traditional corporations, benefit corporations, certified B Corps, nonprofit organizations and public institutions.
• The importance of collaboration and partnership and explore how organizations and stakeholders work together to create collective impact in their communities.
• About global challenges across the triple bottom line, a popular sustainability framework that helps businesses identify best practices and needed improvements beyond just a financial bottom line to include environmental and social implications.

Not only is this knowledge pivotal for launching a career within sustainability, but students are able to practice skills directly applicable to their professional life by demonstrate their learning through a variety of practical methods, such as traditional scholarly writing, recording podcasts and developing storytelling presentations.

There are less than six years to go before the world reaches the end of the UN’s 15-year challenge. With sustainability issues arising every day, the need for sustainability-minded leaders is greater than ever. Pursuing sustainability education is a great way to enter a growing business sector and make a difference with your business career.

Accelerate a career in sustainability with one of ������Ƶ’s fully online business programs, where you can specialize your degree in sustainability while also learning the general skills you need to be a successful business professional.

While there are some similarities between the MBA and the M.S. in Organizational Leadership (MSOL), there are definite distinctions to consider when deciding which best fits your personal and professional goals.

Who is the MBA for?

An MBA is a program designed for individuals to develop expertise in business and prepare for management and leadership positions. Earning this degree would allow you to advance your career in almost any field or discipline, as the managerial and leadership skills you’ll learn are a crucial part of successfully leading any team or project. In addition to soft skills, an MBA will include technical coursework that covers areas such as finance and economics. Thus, this degree might fit you best if you are looking to start a business, run a business or lead an enterprise.

Who is the M.S. in Organizational Leadership for?

An MSOL degree draws on the understanding of social dynamics that influence how individuals and groups work with each other in a business environment. The role of an organization’s leader is to inspire employee commitment through developing a culture and business structure. This program prepares you to do that by diving into how you empower workplace communities, become a global business leader and operationalize various dynamics in a business setting to maximize an organization’s workforce. Therefore, this is probably a better fit if you want to prepare for management and leadership positions.

Business Degrees Built for the Future of Business

While many higher education institutions offer business degrees, the MBA and MSOL at ������Ƶ are designed to help graduates navigate the future of business, not just learn about the strategies of the past.

The MBA incorporates emerging consumer trends within its coursework, including a focus on ways that businesses can make a positive impact within social justice, sustainability and more. And just as there’s more importance placed on diversity and sustainable workplace cultures in today’s job market, the MSOL at ACE includes a focus on leading diverse teams and organizations, becoming a positive change agent, and creating innovative organizational cultures and continuous improvement. It also covers how to manage teams who work in various settings, including virtual and remote.

Many companies are no longer just simply reviewing profitability as an indicator of organizational performance. Social impact has become an integral part of a business operation to ensure corporate social responsibility. Both the MBA and MSOL equip students to be leaders in that area by covering LLCs, C-Corps and other types of businesses. They also demonstrate how to run and/or lead a Benefit Corporation (B Corp), a business that meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Each of the programs’ objectives, description and courses are purposefully broad to allow for an interdisciplinary approach for any industry.   

When it comes to choosing a business program, let your future goals be your guide to ensure that what you’ll learn will directly apply to your career. Choose a program that will prepare you to face the future of your industry.

Learn more about ������Ƶ’s fully online MBA and M.S. in Organizational Leadership. We offer multiple degree pathways that allow you to pursue both degrees at once, saving you time and money. Additionally, because our courses are easily transferrable between the two programs, you can switch programs after starting if it better aligns with your needs.

As educators, we are passionate people, and we often follow those passions in our own education and professional development. We’ll pursue degrees in what we teach or within where we work, such as special education, literacy or curriculum and instruction. We cultivate our expertise in our domains. But what happens next?

As teachers mature in their careers, many feel the urge to do “something else,” to broaden the scope of their influence or just change the way they impact kids. They want to leverage their experience, passion and expertise to do more, which often means moving out of the classroom and into a different role.

For a special education teacher, it might mean looking into special education director positions. A literacy teacher now wants to be a literacy specialist. Someone with a degree in curriculum and instruction might be looking for their next step in positions like curriculum director, instructional specialist or assessment coordinator. The options for advancement are as numerous as the schools we serve.

However, what many teachers don’t know, or don’t anticipate, is that in many schools, for many of these types of positions, expertise and experience simply aren’t enough. Interested candidates also need to hold administrative certification, which means “principal certification” or the equivalent in most states. You may be the most knowledgeable person in your school about curriculum, but many schools simply can’t promote you to curriculum director without that administrative certification. This is why the educational leadership degree is such a worthwhile degree to pursue:

It’s versatile.

A preparation program in school leadership equips you with the skills needed to lead and manage all the situations that arise in schools. Just consider some the anticipated outcomes of the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program at ������Ƶ:

• Collaboratively lead, design and implement a school mission, vision and process for continuous improvement.
• Understand and demonstrate the capacity to advocate for ethical decisions.
• Develop and maintain a supportive, equitable, culturally responsive and inclusive school culture.
• Evaluate, develop, and implement coherent systems of curriculum, instruction, data systems, supports, and assessment.
• Engage families, community and school personnel.
• Improve management, communication, technology and school-level governance.
• Build the school’s professional capacity.
• Conduct, synthesize and apply research.

Which of those skills is not important for any of the roles we’ve discussed? More to the point, which of those skills would you not want to master? A solid principal preparation program does fundamentally prepare you to fill almost any role in a school, hence the versatility.

It’s vital.

Staffing schools with qualified, prepared and effective people is more important now than ever. The skills needed to bring people together, to develop the capacity and self-efficacy of others, and to advocate for change are paramount in creating the schools our kids deserve. The preparation you receive in these programs is vital to our schools.

It’s valuable.

Many schools offer salary bumps for those with advanced degrees. In fact, the master’s in educational leadership tends to have more promotion potential than any other degree you can obtain, making it the most valuable degree for both compensation and future career opportunities.

And if you haven’t before, consider the value a master’s in educational leadership may provide for you and your school. The administrative certification provides a strong foundation to build the remainder of your training upon. Get the certification, then focus professional development activities around your passion.

A program with an administrative certification, like a master’s in education leadership, is often the key to opening doors in education, even if your goal is not to be a future principal. It gives you the knowledge and skills you need to lead a team and school community with confidence, which is applicable to many different leadership roles within education.

������Ƶ is the nation’s third largest conferrer of M.Ed. in Educational Leadership degrees. For those who already hold a specialized degree and are interested in pursuing just an administrative certification, explore ACE’s Certificate in Principal Preparation.