Start Adapting to a Minimalist Lifestyle While Still in College

As a college student, you might think that you're already adhering to a minimalist lifestyle: you have no real spending budget, and you share a room with a twin-sized bed with at least one other roommate. But college campuses are overflowing with surplus, from food to garbage to school supplies and other material items. Living a minimalist lifestyle can help you declutter your mind and your commitments so that you're more free to think creatively, concentrate on what really matters in life — your family, friends and goals — and help the environment. It's also a sensible way to start saving money if you eliminate your dependence on things you want rather than need. Starting to adapt to this lifestyle in college will make it easier for you to live on a budget and stay grounded when you graduate and are thrust into the chaos of the working world.

A lot of us have too many clothes. Go through your closet and put aside to recycle any clothes that you keep packing each year but haven't actually worn in at least a year. Clothes that you try on but never really wear because they don't fit right or aren't your color should go to your dorm mates or to a donation service. You'll find that you're not missing any of your old clothes, either, since you never wore them anyway, and you'll have freed up tons of space in your closet. Ah, that's better.

Keep the momentum going by creating a running shopping list of everything you need and want. Try not to buy anything impulsively, unless it's an obvious need like toothpaste or deodorant, and review your list every week or so to see if you still really need the things you've written down. Chances are, you probably don't feel as enthusiastic about spending your money on those four magazines as you did last Saturday.

Your eating habits contribute greatly to the type of lifestyle you have, so watch what you eat and how you eat. Reduce portion sizes, telling yourself that if you are really and truly still hungry, you can go back for seconds or dessert. It's hard at on campus, but try to recycle whatever you can, and only grab a napkin or two at a time, instead of an entire wad. You'll learn more about the reasons why you eat, and may even lose a little extra weight as you also learn to care about the environment and resources it takes to feed you each day. Don't take your minimalist lifestyle to the extreme and start living like an ascetic. The point is to live according to your needs, not deprive yourself of them.

College, the Bright Side of Living at Home

Your student loan fell through, so you can't afford to go off to school and must spend the semester taking distance courses.

You have no idea what university you want to attend so you are taking your basics at a local college.

Your dream school just so happens to be in your hometown.

These are just a few reasons someone might find themselves living at home, while trying to also live life as a college student. There are many good reasons for staying home, but when fighting siblings interrupt your study time and your mom just won't stop calling you to run errands for her, it can seem like a real pain. While you may be jealous of those seemingly independent students with their cute apartments and limitless freedom, being on your own isn't always what it's cracked up to be. If you are a college student living at home, take a moment to look on the bright side.

You don't have to pay rent. Those who live on their own have to pay for it and after application fees, deposits, and the first month's rent, they often realize that they don't have any money left to pursue a social life. When you look at it this way, babysitting your little brother two nights a week seems like a much smaller price to pay. Another perk? You don't have to buy groceries or, even better, cook food. College life can be hectic and there isn't much time to plan meals. Nothing is worse than getting home after a long afternoon lab, hungry and tired, only to realize that you have literally eaten every last thing in your pantry.

You don't have to be alone. It is often said that you don't know what you have 'til it's gone. What about, you don't know how nice it is to live with your family until you move in with roommates who won't come out of their rooms? While this might be a stretch, it is nice to have people around that you know well and can count on. You will mostly likely not be able to convince your roommate to run boring errands with you the same way you are able to do with your little brother. So when it's a Saturday night and all your friends are busy, you just might be relieved by the entertainment your little sister's choir concert will provide.

Affordable Luxuries for Students for Relaxing on the Cheap

Being a college student often means having less money than you'd probably like. While eventually your college education will pay off in helping you land a higher paying or more rewarding job, right now it may be hard to make the financial sacrifices necessary to make it though to graduation. Lucky for students, there are many ways to have fun, relax and beat the stress of student life without spending a fortune. Sometimes all you need is a little creativity, a few bucks and the willingness to enjoy what you have in front of you. Here are some ideas for the college student who wants to feel like they've living a life of luxury without actually spending much of anything.

* Take a luxurious bath. Some inexpensive bubble bath, bath oils and some hot water can turn a humdrum afternoon into a super-relaxing time. Put on some relaxing music, set up some nice lighting and take a long, relaxing bath to de-stress and feel super pampered.
* Give yourself a manicure or pedicure. Whether you're a guy or a girl, tending to your personal care in a way that you normally don't take the time to do can be a cheap and easy way to feel great. If you're not into manicures, consider a fancy shave, face mask or get a massage from a friend.
* Cook a gourmet dinner. Going out to eat at fancy restaurants isn't always in the budget for most college students, but you can make a great meal at home for much less. Find some great recipes online and make yourself, or your friends, a multi-course meal.
* Escape to the beach, at home. With some ingenuity you can turn your apartment into a beach-like getaway without the price tag. Turn on a bright lamp, crank up some wave sounds, and make a fruity drink.
* Go on an affordable shopping spree. You may not be able to shop it up at boutiques and fancy stores, but you can get yourself some new duds at a thrift store.
* Stay in bed all day. Take a day off from life and just stay in bed, watch movies, read a book and do whatever you feel like without feeling obligated to actually get up and do anything.
* Have a glamorous party. You don't have to be an A-lister to have a fancy party. Have friends dress up in their best, cook up some cute snacks and have a few cheap, but fancy drinks.

Living on less doesn't have to mean missing out on the finer things in life. Sometimes a little ingenuity can help you turn the everyday into the luxurious, helping you beat stress and just relax. What could be better than that?

Sports Management is a Growing Career Field for Serious Fans

Many people who grew up playing sports are interested in turning their passion into a career. However, attempting to make it into the big leagues is not always a viable option. For those who are interested in working behind the scenes in an industry that they love, earning a postsecondary education in sports management may be a viable option. This specialization allows graduates to find careers in a variety of areas in the field, ranging from administration to team management. It is also an ideal major for sports fans who want to find a career in an industry they love.

It can be difficult for working professionals to attend sports management classes on a traditional college campus. However, online education is providing people with more options to earn a degree without setting foot in a classroom. With internet connectivity, individuals can obtain a postsecondary education at their own pace from the comfort of home. These are a few of the schools that offer degrees in sports management.

* University of Phoenix. This online college has gained recognition for helping working professionals across the country move up the career ladder in fields, such as business and finance. Now, it is helping adults work toward degrees in a variety of sectors, including sports management. Individuals who enroll at the University of Phoenix can now pursue an associate's of arts degree in the topic, which can lay the foundation for further education in sports and recreation. Graduates may also be able to use the degree to enter the industry and quickly embark on a career. The coursework is designed to educate students on leadership, ethics, budgeting and finance. Individuals will also learn how environmental factors and culture play a role in sports.
* Tiffin University. Many individuals have a postsecondary degree background in business administration, and Tiffin University now offers a specialization in sports management for those who are interested in additional education. Individuals can enroll in the master of business administration in sports management program to expand their knowledge and obtain a higher degree. The Tiffin University program is designed to help students in decision-making and operations. Individuals are also required to participate in a supervised mentorship period that provides them with hands-on experience in the industry.
* Globe University Online. This institution and the Minnesota School of Business now offers a variety of different online degree programs that concentrate on sports. Bachelor's and associate's degrees in technical skills, exercise science and business administration are designed to provide students with the foundation they need to pursue a career in sports management. Globe University also has a number of externship opportunities that allow individuals to practice their skills at local gyms and recreational facilities. The additional experience can be beneficial to a resume and graduates once they begin the job hunt.
* Ashford University. This school, which has been providing distance learning options for more than 90 years, now offers a bachelor of arts in sports and recreation management. The program is designed to cover information on all sports as well as fitness to prepare graduates for a career in management. Ashford University says that students will be ready to embark on careers in athletics equipment merchandising, recreation programs and fitness clubs following the completion of the program. The degree was created to meet the demands of both sports lovers and business-minded individuals. The online course schedule is flexible and allows students to complete the work on their own time. Ashford University may also allow individuals to transfer up to 99 approved credits toward their bachelor of arts degree. This can help students complete the program in a short amount of time and begin their careers.

Forming a Study Group With Your Online Classmates

Enrollment in online classes is swelling across the country, whether students are working toward their degrees at a completely virtual university or simply using web pages to keep up with classroom assignments, view missed lectures and check their exam scores. The technology has the power to let professors reach out to scores of students they couldn't teach in the past, when college was out of reach for those who didn't have the time, money or transportation to study on campus. Despite its strengths, online coursework presents its own unique challenges, as users — both scholars and professors — need the appropriate computer hardware, web connections, home study areas and self-motivation to handle the work. Students who work primarily at a lone computer terminal can miss out on the social support they share with classmates sitting at a neighboring lecture hall seat or library study carrel. Here are some tips for planning study groups with your online classmates.

* Create a virtual study space. Students often gather to work on a formal group project, or just to trade notes, exchange questions and brainstorm new ideas. That can be difficult when classmates are connected only through broadband cables, but products like Microsoft’s Windows Live Messenger could provide a solution. Easily downloaded to a laptop or mobile device, the application combines instant messaging with social networking, allowing classmates to share photos and videos while they chat. Users can type a real-time conversation while they trade web links or collaborate with slide shows. Each dedicated group discussion session even has a virtual drawing board where members can write or sketch ideas with mice and keyboards instead of chalk and erasers. While video conferencing is not as intimate as gathering in a coffee shop, hosting a study group on Windows Live Messenger does have its own advantages. The system automatically archives the group’s conversation, saving their work, notes and graphics for later reference. That creates another bonus, since tardy class partners can log on later, study the stored discussion threads and post their own contributions asynchronously.
* Start your own Facebook page. Social media sites like Facebook are ubiquitous on campus, making them the perfect place to carve out your own little corner of cyberspace for studying. Students often create a new Facebook page dedicated to their own study groups for classes in any topic, from chemistry to English. All they need is one student to act as administrator of the group, taking care of details, such as making the group public or private.
* Keep your head in the clouds. The advent of cloud computing means that users can store their files on distant servers and access them from any location with a computer connection, instead of being bound to laptops, disks and thumb drives. Using free applications like Google Documents, students can share text documents from essays to outlines, and from Renaissance poetry to algebra equations. The application also includes spreadsheets, drawings, PDF files, images and videos, covering nearly every computer tool a student could need. All a group needs to get started is for one individual to take the lead and post the original document, then save it as a public file and give their classmates editing rights. Enrollment in online education is growing fast, and new technology tools are sprouting up every day to make it easier. Students should ask their friends and professors about new learning platforms and websites.

Search for study group software online and feel free to try out new online learning networks like McGraw-Hill's GradeGuru or Microsoft's Windows Live Spaces and SkyDrive as well as knowledge-sharing sites like Notelog.com or Cramster.com.

The Course Syllabus: Your Best Friend

If you were fortunate to have a forward thinking high school teacher, you may have already been introduced to a course syllabus. Once you reach college, the syllabus is fairly universal. It is carefully constructed by the professor to include all pertinent information about his or her course for the whole semester. For larger classes, it is a way to cut down on answering repetitive questions. It includes a schedule for the semester of assignments, readings, tests, etc. It should list the required and recommended texts for the class. It will give an overview of the material to be covered over the semester. It will also include "housekeeping" information, such as attendance policies, grading procedures, and classroom expectations. Ultimately, the syllabus serves as the student's guide to the semester.

Once you have gathered all your courses' syllabi, you can start to map out your semester. Mark your personal calendar with all the important due dates from all of your courses. This will help you stay organized as you get deeper into each course. You can formulate a plan of attack in terms of the necessary time needed for major assignments. If you have a strong understanding of the schedules delineated in your syllabi, you can avoid being bogged down by the reading assignments as you can spread them out. Any time your professor announces a change to the syllabus, carefully mark down the adjustments on the syllabus itself and your calendar.

The "housekeeping" items in the syllabus give you a better understanding of the professor's expectations for the semester. You want to be aware of the attendance policy. As much as you may wish to never miss a class, unforeseen events always pop up over a semester. It could be an illness that keeps you out of class for a period of time or it could just be a day that you snooze through your alarm; regardless, you want to know what will happen if you miss a class. The attendance policy should always be listed and it eliminates the need to ask the embarrassing question about what happens if you miss a class. The professor will probably envision you as someone more concerned with partying than with studying.

Another important aspect of the syllabus is the breakdown of grades. You are no longer in high school where your teacher will send home a progress report to alert you and your parents if you are struggling. In college, you are expected to be more independent. Part of this lies in your taking ownership of your own progress. The syllabus should outline how much tests, quizzes, papers, and class participation count in your final grade. This will allow you to track where your grade is over the semester.

Your professor will probably go over the syllabus on the first day of class. Follow along and jot down any important notes that pop in your mind at this time. When you go home after class, read through it again so you can clear up any questions before the class really gets into motion.

Do You Have The Time? How Deal With Professors Who Don’t Dismiss Class

We've all had to sit through a class or two that goes on longer than the official time block scheduled in the student catalogue. There are always a few students who didn't follow along exactly and need to ask questions that unnecessarily waste everyone's time. There is always that one professor who doesn't have a watch and tends to ramble on. There's always that one classroom with a broken clock telling the wrong time on the back wall. So what about those of you who haven't had this happen yet? How will you deal with it?

Take our advice. We've dealt successfully with these situations before, so don't fret too much. You have plenty of options. Depending on the atmosphere of the classroom, on whether or not it's an easy-going class, you could simply raise your hand as suggest that the class dismiss, letting the students who needed to stay have one on one time with the professor. Or, if that would cause discomfort, you could always sit through it and talk to the professor afterward and let him know that you need to get to a class right after his. This is a great strategy because it avoids confrontation and shows the professor that you still care about his class, but have other responsibilities. He or she will appreciate the honesty, most likely.

If the problem persists, you could try to place yourself near to an exit door so that you can make your escape should the need arise. You might consider letting your professor know that you just absolutely cannot stay longer than necessary, but again, get a feel for your professor's mood before bringing that up. Ideally, you can get out of the classroom without causing too much of a distraction.

At the worst, you might have to drop the class, though it should rarely come to this. If professors continually hold classes over, you can also consider talking to someone in the department that oversees their courses, and the department can speak with them. However, as with all your interactions with professors, be as respectful as you can.

The Importance of Getting to Know Your Professors

Getting to know your professors in college is probably one of the smartest and beneficial things you can do in college. While some professors may seem intimidating or tough, they are usually very welcome to help students directly with questions or concerns they may have. You don't have to become a teacher's pet or their new best friend, but making an effort, such as visiting them during office hours or staying after class, can make a big difference in the ways that professors view you and your dedication to your schoolwork.

Knowing your professors will be beneficial when it is time to apply for jobs or other commitments that may require letters of recommendation. Eventually you will need recommendation letters, whether it is for a graduate program, a job or internship, or the next step in your future. If your professor knows you and the lengths you have gone to get involved in class, ask questions, and ask for extra help, chances are that professor is willing to write a recommendation letter for you. Professors usually also know about job opportunities, internships, or further education programs that they may be willing to recommend you to if they get to know you.

Taking an interest in getting to know your professor and taking the time to ask questions and or extra help can help with your grades as well. Getting together with your professor and making an attempt to learn more about the material covered in class or to ask with help on an assignment shows that you are working hard in that class and that you care about the teacher and assignments. Efforts to have your professor look over your work could be an important factor when it is time to give students their grades.

Getting to know your professor better could help make you more comfortable to speak up in class or initiate classroom discussions, if you have problems doing so. Asking your professors questions will help you learn more about them and how and why they teach the way they do. Getting to know your professor better will also give you more knowledge on the class, which will make it more interesting to you. Additionally, it may help you strive to do better in class because you know the teacher, and you want to do well in their class because you do not want to let him or her down.

Your Tough Professors are a Blessing in Disguise

During registration season at the end of each semester, sites like RateMyProfessors.com suddenly see a spike in traffic. Students from across the country flood these types of sites twice a year to rant about their current professors and scope out the reviews of potential new ones. Many search for the elusive "easy" classes where professors are praised by past students for being notably lax and undemanding. However, if you only sign up for these easy classes, you will be doing yourself a great disservice.

Obviously, professors who have been condemned for being biased and generally unfair in grading should be avoided, but instructors whose former students say are demanding and strict should not be discounted. For one, most students who leave reviews on ratings sites typically only do so when they have a bad experience and a proverbial bone to pick. Those who have pleasant experiences usually do not feel compelled to leave reviews – that is, unless it is to deem that a certain professor is "hot" or "major eye candy," but that is hardly useful in determining an instructor's teaching style. Be wary of this fact as you read reviews about professors who practice tough love.

You will invariably have to take several classes during your college career where your professors will demand a lot from you. There will be abundant reading and writing assignments and project after project. And to top it all off, your professor may be one of the most critical people you will ever encounter during your academic career. All of this may sound like a recipe for a nightmarish semester, but it is actually a great primer for your life beyond college. The professional work place is often demanding and rarely "easy." You will be expected to deliver top-notch results, and typically to highly critical bosses. By digging deep and working hard for your tougher classes, you are preparing your body, mind, and emotions for the tough professional world that awaits you after college.

Your harder classes will also bring out the best in you. It is always much more satisfying to receive a good grade on something that you know you poured a lot of sleepless nights and sweat into than receiving a good grade on fluff assignments. You will truly feel like you've earned your grade and in some ways, even earned your tough instructor's respect. With hard work comes big rewards, and discovering that you really can ace even the most difficult classes is one of the best feelings of self-confidence that you can get in school.

Forming an Online Study Group

Online learning is an excellent way to further your education. It can be done from anywhere: you can connect at any time you feel like connecting. You don't have to schlep books across campus; you don't have to put up with drafty lecture halls, or professors who turn up late. Just about the only thing you might miss out on is collaboration with other students. If you're having trouble motivating yourself to work, or if your online degree requires you to assimilate a lot of information, consider forming an online study group with other students.

Select Your Program:
Select Business Legal Education Healthcare Trade Hospitality Arts & Design Technology Nursing AdvertisementWorking with a well-organized study group offers many benefits. You can compare notes with your study partners to ensure you've covered all aspects of your material. You can collaborate on projects, get help with drafts of papers, and discuss difficult material productively. Study groups can keep you accountable if you're procrastinating-knowing that you're going to talk about chapters 9-10 in your economics text on Monday will help motivate you to read it by Sunday. Finally, study groups offer you the chance to practice working in teams and networking, both of which are skills that can be profitable in your day job. And you may just make friends or valuable Business contacts, too.

Here are some guidelines for forming an online study group.

1. Limit the group's size

To ensure that everyone has a chance to contribute, and to keep logistical headaches to a minimum, try to restrict your group to no more than four or six people. Big virtual groups can be just as unwieldy as big site-based groups. It will be easier to coordinate schedules and conduct discussions with a smaller group.

2. Set an agenda and a schedule for every session

One of the major pitfalls of study groups is that they can become chat sessions (even online) that don't actually get around to becoming study sessions. Head this off at the pass by setting a specific start and end time for your group meetings, and follow an agenda with time limits.

For example, you might agree to ten minutes at the beginning of your meeting to recap the last session, followed by forty-five minutes to discuss a reading, giving everyone time to contribute thoughts. Finish up with ten minutes to plan the next agenda and discuss whether or not you thought the session was productive, and what to do next time.

3. Assign roles to study group members

While you're all equals as students, setting up roles within your group can save a lot of time and headaches. A group of four students might include a leader, a recorder, a moderator, and a spokesperson. The leader sets the agenda, the recorder saves chat transcripts and distributes meeting minutes, the moderator keeps the group on-topic, and the spokesperson approaches professors with questions from the group.

4. Find a comfortable online meeting place

One of the problems with online learning is where you can "meet". Many instant messenger programs (Google Chat, AOL Instant Messenger, etc.) will let small groups chat simultaneously, although this can be confusing. There are some web-conferencing tools, such as Skype, DimDim, and Yugma, that are free for groups of less than 10 people, and offer more than chat-video chat and desktop sharing are available in some cases. If you're lucky, your online university will provide you with a "virtual campus": dedicated web space to discuss your work in real-time with other students, as well as message boards to post files to. Make sure that all your group's members are comfortable with whatever setting you choose for your virtual meetings.

This article is presented by AIU Online. See how convenient online learning can be at http://www.AIUOnline.edu.

American InterContinental University

Quality online education available to anyone with the
motivation to make their career aspirations come true

This information will be used to contact you through various means, which may include, phone,
text messaging, email, and postal mail about the programs and services that are offered.

AIU is the results-focused University that accommodates you and your lifestyle with quality undergraduate and graduate degree programs that offer you:



Value – AIU Online's reasonable tuition includes all books and fees.

Flexibility – Choose full-time or part-time studies and control how fast you earn your degree. AIU has accelerated undergraduate degree programs and Master's degrees that can be completed in as little as 12 months.

Generous Transfer-In Policy* – At AIU, you can transfer-in up to 50% of our degree requirements from your approved, past college credits as well as your work and life experience.*

Adaptability – AIU Online's award-winning** Virtual Campus gives you the freedom to tailor your education to your preferred style of learning.


At American InterContinental University, our educational approach is designed around the realities and challenges of today's busy lifestyles, and for over forty years, we have been helping students gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to pursue the next level of their professional development.

If you're in the process of researching schools where you can balance your current life and responsibilities with your desire to earn a career-focused degree, you've come to the right place. Your search is over, your dreams are real, and your future starts here.

Contact AIU today, and discover the refreshingly different approach we'll take to helping you achieve your educational goals.


*Not all credits eligible to transfer. See the University’s catalog regarding AIU Online’s transfer credit policies.


**AIU’s Virtual Campus was recognized as “Best of the Best” in the Education and Academia category of the 2009 Computerworld Honors Program.

Ultimate Medical Academy

Leader in Healthcare Training
UMA is a career school that has been exclusively focused on training students in the healthcare industry for over 15 years. We are ABHES accredited. ABHES is the only agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as both an institutional and specialized accreditor focusing on health care education and training.

Committed to Your Career Success
UMA is the smart choice for anyone who wants to build a medical career in a short period of time. With programs that focus on the job skills you need, financial aid for qualified students and an aggressive job placement team, we can help you achieve your goals.

UMA Military Benefits
· Special Tuition pricing for Veterans, Active Duty Military and spouses/qualifying dependents of Active Duty
· Patriot Grant is available to cover the cost of books
· Transfer Credits accepted for eligible military experience
· Acceptance of CLEP/DANTES
· Waived application fee

Make It Happen
Ultimate Medical Academy offers you the resources you need to become a healthcare professional. It only takes a few minutes to get started – contact UMA today!

Walden University

You can achieve a higher level of success.
And you can start today.

At Walden, we believe that knowledge is most valuable when put to use in organizations, communities, and families. We offer over 45 online degree programs with more than 190 specializations and concentrations, all designed to help professionals gain the knowledge they need to have a real impact in their lives and the lives of others.

Our program areas include:
Counseling
Education
Health Sciences
Human Services
Management
Nursing
Psychology
Public Administration
Public Health
Technology

Walden is distinguished by high academic standards, experienced faculty, and a rigorous curriculum. Our advanced degrees are intended to advance the quality of life not just for the Walden graduate, but for everyone he or she encounters. Our programs help students achieve personal enrichment and career advancement. Walden graduates, in turn, enrich and advance the lives of countless others they serve.

As an accredited institution with 40 years of experience, Walden has graduated more than 38,000 alumni, all of whom now have the credentials and desire to make a real difference and be a force for good.

Life Experience Degree

Life experience degrees are a great means to accelerating one’s education. The significance of life experience degrees is increasing day by day thanks to a number of factors such as flexibility, ease and convenience, and affordability. Needless to say, obtaining a life experience degree can help many working adults and students enhance their career prospects and prosper in life.

A life or work experience degree is a degree awarded to people who have shown excellence in their field of work with outstanding skills, intellect and knowledge. The credit for life experience degrees are awarded to people who have prior life experience or have obtained certifications in professional courses, etc. There are many online institutes that award life experience college degrees by evaluating the individuals’ prior experience using various methods. Universal Degrees, for instance, is one of the best opportunity for working adults to earn a degree for life experience. Universal Degrees offers genuine and accredited degrees for experience to students with complete credentials verifications service.

Life experience degrees are accepted and approved by most employers and organizations these days. In today’s fiercely competitive world, professional advancement is impossible without a credible, genuine degree. A person with a degree in hand, though with little experience, doesn’t find it difficult to get a good job and is always preferred by an employer.

Universal Degrees is your prime place to get work experience degrees. We provide authentic, accredited and accelerated life experience degrees to individuals who are approved by the Evaluation Committee on the basis of their prior learning/life/work experience. Working adults are awarded college credit for life experience.

Everyone is invited to get life experience college credit and take advantage of a genuine, fully accredited and credible life experience degree from Universal Degrees and increase their chances of professional development.

Take Advantage of Tax Credits for Higher Education

Thinking of going back to school, but not sure if you can afford it?

Select Your Program:
Select Business Legal Education Healthcare Trade Hospitality Arts & Design Technology Nursing AdvertisementIf you want to finish your degree or expand your professional skill set, tuition may be within your reach, thanks to the Federal Government. There are educational tax deductions and credits available that can significantly reduce the burden of paying for a degree. For 2009-2010, some of these credits have been expanded dramatically, and depending on your circumstances, could save you thousands of dollars when you file your 2009 and 2010 returns.

First, there is the standard $4,000.00 deduction for tuition and fees. This deduction reduces your taxable income, which in turn could reduce your tax burden by up to $1,400.00 in total. You can't claim the deduction against expenses like books or room and board, and you can't claim this deduction in addition to any other credits.

The Lifetime Learning Tax Credit provides up to $2,000.00 per return per year towards tuition and fees, depending on your income. Anyone taking courses can claim the Lifetime Learning credit, even if he or she is not pursuing a degree. And while other educational credits are time limited, students can claim the Lifetime Learning credit for as many years as they take courses. The Lifetime Learning credit is a great financial incentive for professionals who only need a few classes now and then to top up their skill set, but who aren't working towards a degree (although students in degree programs could elect to take this credit as well).

If you are planning to earn a Bachelor's or Master's, 2009 may be the best time to enroll. President Obama's stimulus package included an expansion of the old Hope Educational Credit, turning it into the American Opportunity Tax Credit. This tax credit will be available for 2009 and 2010. The total amount refunded has been raised, from $1,800.00 per student per year to $2,500.00. The upper income limits have also been raised, so that individuals earning up to $80,000.00, or couples earning up to $160,000.00, are now eligible for this tax break. For lower-income learners, the credit now also offers refunds of up to 40% of the maximum value. If, for example, your income is too low to require you to pay income tax, you can file a return, claim the credit, and receive $1,000.00.

The AOTC still retains some characteristics of the old Hope Credit. You can only claim it for the first two years of your degree program, for example (although juniors and seniors who have already used up their Hope Credits can claim the AOTC in 2009 and 2010). You can't claim it against any tax-free income source you used to pay for your education, such as a tax-free scholarship, Pell grant, Veterans' educational assistance, or employer-reimbursed funds. And you can't claim a Lifetime Learning credit AND the AOTC on the same return. However, enrollment at any educational institution, whether public or private, live-in or online, makes you eligible to claim the tax credit, as long as you are enrolled at least part-time.

So, which option should you choose? It's a no-brainer: jump on the American Opportunity Tax Credit for 2009 and 2010 while it's available. In a down economy, when so many jobs are being lost, gaining a degree or additional certifications could help you change to a skilled, high-paying career or even earn a promotion in your current one. And with so many flexible options available for earning your degree-part-time education, technical education, or online education-there's no excuse not to seize the day.

This article is presented by AIU Online, an online university helping students earn in-demand online degrees without giving up their lives.

Resources:

http://www.irs.gov/publications/p970/ch03.html

http://www.businesspundit.com/american-opportunity-tax-credit-the-details/

http://www.forbes.com/2009/02/17/college-hope-credit-personal-finance-taxes_0217_college_stimulus.html

http://www.taxpolicycenter.org/taxtopics/conference_american_opportunity.cfm

http://www.onlineeducationblog.org/colleges-universities/american-opportunity-education-tax-credit-facts-for-students-parents

How does online learning work?

Although individual programs differ, each employs some kind of Internet technology to deliver instructional material. Your class may rely on e-mail, message boards, chat rooms, and desktop video or computer conferencing. Some courses are synchronous, requiring learners and teachers to participate at the same time and interact in "real time." Chat rooms, interactive TV and videoconferencing are examples of synchronous delivery methods. Most courses are asynchronous, meaning students and teachers do not have to participate at the same time. E-mail, the World Wide Web and streaming video lectures are asynchronous delivery methods. Some courses will incorporate both synchronous and asynchronous components into their curriculum.

Is online learning different from distance learning?
Online learning is merely one type of distance learning, which is "education that takes place with the instructor and student geographically remote from each other." Distance learning may occur by surface mail (correspondence), video, interactive or cable TV, satellite broadcast, or via Internet technologies such as e-mail, message boards, chat rooms, and desktop video or computer conferencing.

What is accreditation and why is it important?
Accreditation is a status granted to an educational institution or program that meets or exceeds predetermined criteria of educational quality. Basically, it's an academic stamp of approval.

Will I learn as much in an online course as I would in a traditional, face to face class?
Studies conducted by the U.S. Office of Technology Assessment, as well as by the University of Phoenix, show that distance learners do as well or better in courses and on tests than traditional students.

Can I take the class from any computer? From any location?
Yes, as long as the computer meets the system requirements for the class. You can also work from any location with Internet access. All you will need is the assigned password and username to access the class.

What should you be looking for?

10 questions to ask before selecting an online degree program:

Do you meet the requirements for admission?
Is the school/program's accreditation legitimate?
Does the school offer a strong academic program in your field of interest?
Are there any unexpected course requirements, like in-person sessions?
What comprises the online classroom (e-mail, message boards, live chats, etc.)?
Are school representatives helpful when you e-mail your questions/concerns?
How long will your degree or certificate completion take?
Are testimonials from past students available or can you contact current students with questions?
Can you read about and/or contact faculty members to ensure their qualifications?
Can you try a demo or see an example of how the course will run?

Liberal Arts Degrees

Earn An Advanced Degree In Music Online

If you already have a degree in music, you can take additional online courses leading to a master's degree in the field. These classes will primarily focus on the history, theory or appreciation of music rather than actually learning a musical instrument. This online degree can provide you with a broader understanding of the music found in different cultures. When you pursue an online music degree you may find that the institution you attend offers the courses through an online course management system where the class materials may be provided via streaming video or audio. There is also a possibility that the program you attend offers you the opportunity to complete the program at your own pace.



Earn An Online Art Degree

There are a number of degrees that you can earn online, including art degrees. Some schools offer the Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, or a Master of Fine Arts in an online format for different art specialties including graphic arts. By reviewing the website of the school you want to attend, you can explore the different online art degree options to find the one that best suits your needs. However, it is important to keep in mind that an online degree does not give you the benefit of having a teacher nearby when you have questions, so be sure you will be comfortable earning a degree in this format.



Study English Online

Even the next great American authors can benefit from first earning their english degrees online. Studying the great authors of the past and present help many writers understand the process to become an author. There are a number of schools that offer English degrees online in areas of specialization like American literature, English Literature, Creative Writing, Technical Writing, and Journalism. English majors can expect to write a lot of papers before graduation, so make sure this is something you enjoy before you start this degree.



The History Online Major

Do you enjoy studying military history or the history of different cultures? While many people consider history to be a hobby, you can earn a history degree online. There are a number of history concentrations that you can pursue including American History, European History, Military History, and many others depending on the college you attend. In addition, by taking additional set courses in education, you may be able to complement your online history degree with a degree in secondary education. This will allow you to find a teaching degree in history following graduation.



The Theory And History Of Religion In An Online Degree

The study of religion is fascinating to many people who want to learn more about their own faith or those faiths practiced by many other cultures of the world. The online degree in theology could lead to work in a specific ministry, rabbinical studies, or numerous other possibilities depending on your interests. You may find discipline concentrations in history, ethics, the Bible, world faiths, and theology. Many people find that taking online courses towards a degree in religion in can lead to a very rewarding career in the field.

Masters Degree Online

Become A Lifelong Learner And Pursue An Online Master Degree

Learning doesn't have to stop when you get your bachelor's degree. If you like to learn, you can continue your education and get an online master degree. A number of major universities offer their graduate degrees online providing you with the same education you would receive if you attended the traditional on-campus program. As a lifelone learner, you don't have to stop after you complete a master degree. There are other master's degrees that may complement your degree and increase your marketability when looking for a promotion or a new job. You could also make the decision to further your education with a doctorate. Either way, you don't have to stop learning especially with all of the opportunities available through credible universities across the U.S.


It's Time To Complete Your Online Master's Degree

After completing a bachelor's degree, many students have the desire to continue their education towards a graduate degree. However, often students find that financially they have to work and put off completing a master's degree until much later. Completing your master's degree allows you to gain more in depth knowledge in your field which can be turned into a promotion or better job opportunity in your future. Depending on what field you are in, you can probably find an online master's degree program that fits your needs. For example, graduate schools online cover Teaching, Computer Sciences, Engineering, Public Health, Public Affairs, Healthcare, Criminal Justice, and many more. By visiting an online degree information site, you can find a number of online master's degree programs and possible the right one for you.



Life Lessons Come With An Online Graduate Degree

When you work on an online graduate degree, you learn much more than what is provided in-class. There are actually a number of life lessons that you can pick up on. An online degree requires the student to be more involved in the learning process which means that discipline is critical. Since online learning often allows you to complete work and submit it at your convenience, some students fall into the trap of procrastinating and not getting things completed on time. This is a mistake which could keep you from earning your degree. Instead, stay on track with your homework developing those necessary discipline and motivation skills that can benefit you for the rest of your life.



Set Priorities For An Online Graduate Degree

When you enroll in an online graduate program, such as a health administration degree program, you can expect to dedicate several hours per week for preparation and completion of all assignments. This means that you will have to set priorities in your life and make sure you have the time to get the needed work done. Try to set a regular schedule to keep you on the right track. Completing a graduate degree could increase your earning potential over your lifetime so the time commitment required to be successful does pay off in the long run. For instance, getting your health administration degree could finally get you that raise you deserve at the doctor's office or even a promotion at the hospital you work at.



Start A New Career Late In Life

After years of working for one employer or in one field, you may find yourself getting bored with your job. Just remember that it is never too late to start a new career. Even after you retire from one job, you can earn an online master's degree in a new field and start over. This might be a good time to take a hobby to the next level. By completing a master's degree you may qualify to teach part time for a community college or university. With more education like a doctorate, you may also be able to obtain a full-time teaching position at the college level.

Trade & Vocational Schools

Discover Your Vocation

Maybe your indecisiveness to choose a major kept you from completing your college degree. If this sounds like you, explore the options available through the numerous vocational schools in operation. These schools provide two-year and four-year degrees that can lead directly to employment in the field. In many cases, you can find the online degree that interests you in fields like computers, business or health careers. You even discover that a hotel management degree is the right decision for you. Visit an online degree information site to find an online school with the vocational degree for you.



Food Service Management Online Degree

Online programs are not just found in traditional colleges and universities. In fact, there are trade and vocational schools that have gotten into the act as well. One example of this is an online food service management bachelor degree. Typically, there is an expectation that you already have an associate degree in the field so you can complete the remaining courses for your degree primarily online. A sampling of some of the courses you may take to complete an online food service management bachelor degree includes nutrition, sanitation, and cooking theory. There may be an expectation to participate in a residency on the college campus during some of the classes, so check with school for an understanding of all requirements.



Prepare For A Business Vocation

There are a number of opportunities for graduates with a degree in business. Students can study finance, marketing, and management topics, which can open up many career possibilities in industries like banking, insurance, manufacturing or government. You can get a jump start on your business career by completing an online business degree through a vocational school. These programs are similar to many found at traditional schools but may focus only on a few selected vocations to provide more expertise and experience directly in the field.



Pursue A Vocation In Art

An online degree in art from a trade school can lead to a career in a number of fields including advertising, fashion merchandising, graphic arts or interior design. If you have confidence in both your creative and technical abilities than studying art online may be right for you. Depending on your chosen art specialty, you can take courses on fashion, web design, and drawing along with a variety of other topics to complete your career training.



The Online Trade School Degree

Looking for a degree that will lead directly to a good paying career? You may want to explore the degree options through a trade or vocational school where you learn skills and gain practical experience in your field. These programs often include field experiences like internships to make sure program graduates are well versed in their chosen vocation before seeking the first paid job. You can gain your vocational training online through a trade or vocational school. Expect your online degree program to cover the same material included in an on-campus program. The online delivery just provides you with an added benefit of allowing you to complete the program at a location that is convenient for you. Keep in mind, however, that there may be a requirement for you to participate in some type of internship experience prior to graduating with your online trade school degree.

Web & Graphic Design Online

An Online Web Design Degree To Increase Your Comfort With Technology

While it may seem like a difficult option, you may actually find it easier to learn web design online. Since you will be doing all of your web design using a computer, it makes sense to use the technology to turn in your homework as well as to communicate with your teacher and other students. It can also give you a better understanding of what it takes to work in teams that are separated geographically. The biggest benefit of earning an online web design degree is that it can help you become more comfortable with the technology while giving you a good understanding of what a user expects when visiting a website.



Become Your Own Boss With An Online Graphic Arts Degree

Who doesn't dream of someday being their own boss? With an online graphic arts degree you could get the skills and knowledge you need to put you in the drivers seat and start your own online business. Through an online graphic art school, you can learn software programs used by many publishers and printers like QuarkXPress and PageMaker to create various projects from posters to newsletters. With these graphic art skills and some web page design knowledge you can turn this experience into a unique way to market your skills online. Creating a website is a wonderful way to showcase your talents globally by posting examples of previous work for potential clients to preview. In addition, you would have the know-how to create your own newsletter that could be available online or sent on a regular basis via e-mail. By showing your clients what you can do, not only do you demonstrate that you are technologically savvy, but they also get to see actual products created by you.



Learn About Web Design Online

You don't have to get a degree in web design to create your own web page. However, it is a good idea to learn the proper way to put a web page together by taking online web page design classes. This can help you put together a personal website for you or your family that is easy to navigate and looks appealing. An online web design classes can give you good guidelines to follow regarding text size, fonts and styles as well as appropriate use of pictures, images and animation to help you avoid a web site that is too busy and difficult to maintain. In an online web page design class, you can also gain an understanding of different tools like Dreamweaver, PageMill and FrontPage you can use to make the web page design process much easier.



Online Degrees For Game Programming

Anyone who likes to play computer or video games probably wishes they had the skills and knowledge to make little changes every now and then. Earning an online degree in game programming can put you in the position to do just that. Not only can you learn to make modifications to existing games, but you would have the ability to create new games or simulations for other users just like you. In addition, as more gaming moves to a multi-user experience over the web, you can learn the skills you need to create this type of environment for your games. Visit an online degree information site to learn more about online game programming degrees and find a school that has the program for you.



The Online Degree With A Creative Flair

For those who have a flair for creative pursuits and like to use the computer for their designs, a career in graphic arts may be a good choice. With an online graphic design degree, you can further develop your skills and interest in a flexible and convenient form. After completing an online graphic arts degree, you may be able to find a job in a field like advertising or marketing creating materials like posters or brochures. In pursuing this degree online, you may incur expenses beyond the typical college tuition since you may be required to purchase and install specific software on your home computer. Check with the school you will attend to understand all technical requirements to complete the online graphic design degree.

Understanding Student Loans

Have Your Employer Pay For Your Online Degree

When pursuing an online degree, paying for it might be a concern. If you are already employed, you may find that your employer offers you a tuition reimbursement benefit. While this is not available from all employers, if this is offered where you work it is definitely worthwhile to find out more information on the criteria. In many cases, an employer will reimburse you the cost of your tuition after you successfully complete each course. They may require that you receive at least a B-grade to get the benefit. Sometimes, you may also be able to get additional costs reimbursed like other fees, books, and materials. Talk to your Human Resources Department to find out more information about this potential benefit.



Scholarships

There are a number of scholarships available to help pay for a college education, and not all are given out each year. Most students only apply for scholarships that are for a higher dollar amount rather than apply for a number of smaller ones. It may be worth your time to send in an application for all of the scholarships you can find if you are qualified. It all adds up in the end and could help you pay for more than just your college tuition but possibly even your books and rent. Always make sure that you understand what expenses the scholarship covers when you apply and make sure that the online degree program you are pursuing is acceptable based on the specified criteria.



Student Loan Deferment

If you already have student loans and will be starting a new online degree program, find out if you can qualify for a federal student loan deferment when you become enrolled as at least a half-time student. Not all degree programs meet the qualifications that will allow you to defer your student loans so if this is something you are expecting check the rules for the Department of Education first. A rule of thumb for you to determine if this will be approved is that if the school is eligible to disburse federal financial aid than it can be considered acceptable for federal student loan deferment.



Student Loans For An Online Degree

If an online degree program has the proper accreditation, more than likely, students who meet eligibility requirements can apply for federal financial aid. If your program does not qualify for federal aid, a number of private financial institutions may be able to offer you a student loan to help you with your educational expenses. These do not offer the same benefits as federal financial aid so you may have to pass a credit check and be charged a high interest rate with an expectation that the repayment on the loan begin within 30 to 60 days after the loan has been disbursed. Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to read all the fine print carefully or you could also face heavy penalties for late payments or an early payoff.



Types Of Financial Aid For Online Learning

When looking into financial aid to help you pay for an online degree, there are really three different types that you could be qualified to receive. First, there are grants which consist of funds (including scholarships) that do not require repayment. Grants are typically available to students with a high financial need; however, scholarships are not always based on financial need but may have other criteria. Second, students may qualify for student loans which have to be paid back at some point. Student loans are available through both federal and private sources. Finally, if your school qualifies for federal financial aid, you may be able to qualify for work study. This is basically a part time job funded through the U.S. Government to help you earn money towards your college education.