The writing life is coveted by many; but in order to become a successful writer, training and education in the language arts is beneficial. 

Yet even with the appropriate coursework, the road to financial success as an author is still challenging and competitive. But judging from the millions of books bulging to capacity on library shelves, it is obvious that quite a few authors are able make a living crafting the written word.

For example, highly-acclaimed author Amy Tan has achieved tremendous success as a writer – in her early years as a business and technical writer, then later as a writer of novels. And soon, she will be honored in a way that few writers ever experience.

Amy Tan’s best-selling book, The Bonesetter’s Daughter, debuts on September 13th as a world premiere production of the San Francisco Opera. The story of the difficult relationship between a Chinese immigrant and her Chinese American daughter has captivated the reading public; and now the intriguing tale is live onstage with singers, Chinese acrobats and a full orchestra. Tan, who holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in English and linguistics, also wrote the libretto for the opera.

Previously, Tan’s book, The Joy Luck Club, was adapted into a critically-acclaimed movie; and Tan co-authored the screenplay. The book remained on the New York Times bestseller list for 75 weeks, according to Turner Classic Movies. The movie was a hit at the box ofice. 

Amy Tan did her homework as a writer by earning a bachelor’s and master’s degree from a traditional college. But today, an online bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, linguistics, business communications or liberal arts studies is a flexible way to earn the credentials and skills that are so helpful for budding writers.

As e-learning students, writing hopefuls learn the foundational rules and fundamental mechanics of composition, English grammar, English literature, and poetry. Students also study the best of world literature in order to critique and understand how the greats placed their thoughts on paper in a unique and compelling way.

A number of accredited online schools offer college degrees that prepare graduates for the excellence that is generally required in the world of editors, writers and the expectant public. Students schedule their study time to accommodate full-time jobs, family responsibilities, physical limitations, travel and high gas prices.

Although preparation for the writing life is not without hard work, the payoff down the road is often fulfilling, as the abililty to write with excellence brings enlightenment, joy and creativity to others.

Amy Tan is certainly a testament to that. 

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Popularity: 1% [?]

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Now is the best time in recent history to become a science teacher.

Currently, a shortage of math and science teachers is prevalent in junior high and high schools across the nation. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics regarding teaching jobs, there are  ” . . . particularly good prospects for teachers in high-demand fields like math, science, and bilingual education . . . ”

In answer to this need for specialized teachers, one of America’s favorite universities, Western Governors University (WGU), has expanded its degree offerings for those aspiring to be science teachers.  WGU is the only online school accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).  

For those who aspire to teach biology, chemistry, physics, general science, or earth science, Western Governors University offers a panacea of flexible, competency-based online degree programs using the latest in distance-learning technology.

Western Governors University now offers 10 accredited science education degrees at bargain-basement costs. And the undergraduate tuition of $2,890 for each 6 months is among the lowest tuition of any 4-year university in the U.S.

However, quality has not been compromised in this non-profit school’s quest to provide the training necessary for tomorrow’s science teachers.

WGU was founded by the governors of 19 states and continues to uphold the high academic standards that have ruled the school since its inception. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, a major accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education.

It is also supported by 20 major corporations — including Google, Zions Bank, Hewlett Packard, AT&T, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Microsoft, Oracle, Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, J.Willard and & Alice S. Marriott Foundation, Dell Computer, Hospital Corporation of America, Qwest and Sun Microsystems.

According the the National Education Association (NEA), the average teacher’s salary in California is $59,345 per year; and beginning salaries are approximately $37,645. Like most states, there is a shortage of science teachers.

Western Governors University is in an e-learning league of its own – exhibiting the unusual combination of a high quality education with low tuition rates.

So remember, now is the time to pounce on this opportunity to combine science and teaching into a fulfilling and rewarding career.

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Popularity: 8% [?]

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Movies like the Bourne Identity have glamorized the idea of working for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in clandestine service.  

After all, who wouldn’t want a career that offers an excellent salary with great benefits, international travel opportunities with major expenses paid, excellent language training, working with top-notch personnel, and operating in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. For a select group of people, this describes the ultimate job.

For others, there are are a number of interesting jobs within the CIA that do not involve the cloak-and-dagger aspect and that offer similar great salaries and benefits. But it helps to be a self-motivated, high-achiever; since job applicants will find that competition is keen for any position.

Fortunately, military personnel are in a prime position to snag one of these jobs, depending upon qualifications and service record — including education and experience.  Distance learning offers perfect preparation for those who plan to apply for a CIA career. 

And those who have taken advantage of their military benefits to pursue a traditional or online degree program may find it easier to walk into a lucrative and exciting career that capitalizes on the soldier’s unique background and training.

These are a few of those post-military career possibilities with the CIA:

1. National Clandestine Service Officer, which often involves living and working in a foreign country. 
2. Scientists, Engineers and Technology Specialists, which may involve developing and implementing technolgies that are not for general or widespread use.
3. Analysts in the fields of psychology, economics, leadership, military strategy, medical and health, crime and counternarcotics, politics, science, technology and more.
4. Language Officers, including those who are already fluent in required languages, as well as those who will receive language training by the CIA to meet job qualifications.
5. Support services include jobs that are available to talented individuals who have training and qualifications in a number of fields – including finance, architecture, logistics, cartography, human resources, library science, accounting, security, nursing, paralegal, criminal justice, psychology, telecommunications, etc.

Jumping from life as a soldier into a career with the CIA offers continuity in government service; it offers another honorable opportunity to serve the nation.

E-learning through online schools offers the opportunity to gain the knowledge and credentials that will be necessary to win one of the coveted spots with the CIA.

And those who are successful in their quest can enjoy a stimulating, unique and rewarding career.

careers, distance learning, e-learning, jobs, military, online degree program, online degrees, online schools, CIA 

Popularity: 22% [?]

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When most of us hear the name of Florence Nightingale, we think of the field of nursing — a high calling for those who are interested in caring for the sick. And it is to Ms. Nightingale that registered nurses owe a debt of gratitude for raising the status of a profession that was once a lowly job with few benefits. 

Today, there are many excellent reasons to choose to become a registered nurse.  Here are five of them:

1. Nursing has excellent job opportunities, no matter what is happening with the economy. By the year 2030, there are expected to be 800,000 vacancies for nurses.
2. Nursing has excellent starting salaries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual starting salary of between $47,710 and $69,850. 
3. Nursing offers an opportunity to truly help other people and save lives.
4. Nursing keeps the brain stimulated; there is always something new to learn.
5. Nurses can begin working within 1-2 years after the beginning of training, then can continue to work while finishing an online bachelor’s degree in nursing or an RN to BSN degree.

When it is time to choose a profession, nursing should be high on the list of possibilities.

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Popularity: 28% [?]

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Preparation for a new career requires consistent time and diligence. 

But several careers offer a foot in the door with two years or less of training. 

This training can take place through online degree programs, professional certificate programs or traditional college programs.  Entry-level jobs in these fields may not begin at the top of the heap; but the newly-learned skills will be used; and  on-the-job experience generally translates into higher salaries.

In a four-year college, students generally spend the first two years taking general education courses that may have little to do with the student’s major. Two-year programs that utilize a technical school format enable student to focus on the specific training desired, without having to take additional liberal arts classes. Then, after completion of all required coursework, the student earns a professional certificate or an associate’s degree.

A few careers that may require only one or two years of training include:

1. Paralegal (Legal Assistant)
2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
3. Preschool Teacher (Early Childhood Education)
4. Automobile or Motorcycle Mechanic
5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
6. Computer Technician
7. Medical Coding and Billing Specialist
8. Fire Management Specialist
9. Surgical Technologist
10. Computerized Accounting Specialist

Those seeking a 2-year training program should check out one of these careers or others that are offered through online schools, junior colleges or vocational schools.

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Popularity: 31% [?]

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Most likely, if you contract mumps, rubella, scarlet fever, measles or other diseases, pertinent data regarding your case may be reviewed by an epidemiologist.

Epidemiologists are often called disease hunters or medical scientists; but their turf expands far beyond the scope of simply recognizing and studying outbreaks of communicable and non-communicable diseases.  They are also involved with environmental health concerns, workplace safety, emergency preparedness and bioterrorism.

Globetrotters should become familiar with fact sheets for travelers that inform about recent disease outbreaks around the world – whether they occur on land, on a cruise ship or on a plane. Fact sheets are rich with information compiled by epidemiologists. Travelers can find out which immunizations are required, which countries have safe drinking water, what is helpful for students traveling abroad, and more.

Of course, epidemiologists do investigate disease outbreaks like SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), bird flu and dengue fever — determining risk factors, causes, treatment plans and prevention. But they also spend a great deal of time collecting data, compiling surveys, and interpreting information.  

Epidemiologists generally hold a master’s degree in public health or in one of the biological sciences; and it is possible to prepare for this career by earning an accredited online degree. A thorough knowledge of biology and physiology enables epidemiologists to understand disease processes and to draw conclusions based upon the statistical analysis of information.

Epidemiologists may be employed by the government, hospitals, universities, public health agencies, and medical schools. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are two agencies that focus on disease control and offer jobs often coveted by those who prepare for a career in this field.

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Popularity: 8% [?]

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The thrill of motorcycle riding is a pleasure reserved for those who love adventure and the outdoors. And online schools may offer a doorway to turning this passion into an exciting career.

The California Wine Country, where I live, is one of the best destinations for motorcycle riding in the United States. The weather, the winding Northern California roads, the proximity to the coastline and beaches, and the views of beautiful countryside wineries all culminate in the perfect place to ride.

But for those who want to take this passion to a new level, vocational training in motorcycle engines may be the next best thing.  Imagine, doing what you love for a living!

Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix and Orlando offers hands-on training for Harley-Davidson, American Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki. The manufacturers of these fine machines offer a superb training facility in order to provide the best possible environment for learning. WyoTech also offers excellent on-campus training.

Those who love motorcycles and prefer online education may prepare for a career as a specialist in motorcycle engines. It is possible to earn an online professional certificate in Motorcycle Repair or Small-Engine Repair in as few as 9 months.  

Online schools that offer this certificate include:

• Penn-Foster Career School
• Ashworth College Online
• Stratford Career Institute

For those who wish to earn a college or university degree before diving into a mortorcycle specialty, an online bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering offers a solid foundation that may offer management opportunities down the road.

So take a ride on the wild side . . . and earn big bucks at the same time!

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Popularity: 54% [?]

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Do you want a ‘dream job’ like flying airplanes, working as an air traffic controller or tinkering with planes as a flight mechanic? Well, guess what — it may be possible. And the best part is that online schools offer the flexibility to work toward the recommended college degree while attending ground school and flight classes.

Who has been able to peek inside the cockpit while traveling without wondering what it would be like to be a commercial or private airline pilot and handle such a precision flying machine? What about air traffic controllers who work in the towers at airports — what a life, we say — helping planes to take off and land?  And those who maintain all types of aircraft are surrounded by airplanes during the work day.

These jobs seem miles away for most of us — or are they?

Actually, aviation careers are possible for those who are willing to complete the appropriate classes and meet the required flight experience and qualifications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, because of strong competition, most jobs as pilots require a college degree in addition to hands-on training and FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) certification.

But the payoff is worth it, with the potential for a high salary, free airline travel, less than 100 flying hours a month (per FAA for commercial airline pilots) and the sense of self-fulfillment and satisfaction that comes with doing what you love.

Potential flight mechanics may work toward an online associate’s degree in Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology. Air traffic controllers are required to have either 4 years of college, or a combination of college and relevant work experience. Additional information about certification for aviation employment is available through the FAA.

So if airplanes and flying are a passion, do not delay in checking out opportunities to work in a career that is a perfect fit for you.

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Popularity: 18% [?]

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