Why Should You Receive Your Career Education

No matter how old you are you are never too old to receive career education. You see it from people who are in high school all the way up to adults who want to change careers. Not everyone knows for sure what they want to be when they grow up or when they grow old. Certainly the changing world economy, and how that affects careers, comes into play here.

Let's answer a simple of question. Why should you receive career education?

The answer is simple. You need training in most jobs to make a career out of them. None of us are born with the skills or training to perform most of the tasks that come with a career. If you want to be a doctor you can expect to spend 8 years or more getting the career training and degrees necessary to enter this demanding field. Without the proper education you will never enter this field. There are state licenses required and that you can only get by having the proper college degrees.

Another example is in the field of business. The more educated you are the better your chances of being hired out of college. Along this lines is the college you attend. Colleges known for their graduates in business will provide a better opportunity to start with a better career than a junior college, or community college would.

We mentioned how times change and people change. It is not uncommon for people to go through a life changing experience and want to change their careers when they are in their mid-careers. This presents a couple of challenges.

1. Do you have the education for your new career. If not you are going to have to determine how many of your previous college credits are transferrable and how many new credits you will need. Along with this is weighing the time involved and the cost. Many times this can be done online or in the evenings without forcing you to quit your job.

2. Are you prepared to take a pay cut. When you switch careers you may be taking a pay*cut. No one starts at the top and you can expect to have to earn you way up the ladder with your new career. This is usually worth it as you get older because career fulfillment is more important than money by then.

Regardless of where you are in your life, career education is important. It will help you get your foot in the door and open up new opportunities for you that you would not otherwise have.

Lester Lee is the webmaster of www.EightTips.com, a popular website that provides expert advice and great tips on Career Education. Visit our site today for more helpful information about innovation in Career Education and other similar topics.

College Grants

With the massive tuition fees that one has to pay for colleges, there are many people for whom going to college just remains a dream. Fortunately, these colleges also recognize the necessity of providing scholarships and grants to deserving candidates, and make their dreams of going to college come true. A college grant is similar to a scholarship. However, unlike scholarships, where there is no follow-up on the progress the students makes, grants require a service, and the organization that provides the grants generally checks on the progress the student makes, and ensures that all obligations are properly met. These are usually awarded to graduate students in an effort to fund research or encourage study in a particular field or topic. It is usually the case where grants are not provided towards tuition fees but for expenses necessary to complete research. There are very few grants available for undergraduate students. The grant amounts vary greatly and can range from $100 to even $100,000.

Applying for a College Grant

First, you need to ascertain the reason for which you are going to apply for a grant, be it degree-based, program-based, or even a minority grant. Grants are given on certain factors like tuition cost, family income, academic achievements, field of study, minority category, etc. Family assets, student dependency, and expected family contribution are also taken into consideration at this time. Things that need to be in order from the student who is applying are basic requirements like high school diploma, US citizenship / eligible foreigner, SSN, no criminal record, and no default on a student loam repayment. After taking all factors into account and scrutinizing the application, the student will receive a report which states all the eligibility details. Some things to keep in mind are: submit your application on time, make sure you know what you are applying for exactly, and that you are eligible for the same, and confirm that your documentation is all in place.

Types of College Grants

There are various types of grants provided by different organizations. The categories under which the grants are provided are generally divided as student specific, subject specific, degree level or for a minority community. Some of*the common types of college grants are as follows.

Federal Grants
These grants are provided by the federal government. Some of the famous and commonly sought grants are the Pell grant that has been in existence since 1972, and has provided funding to millions of low-income students. Although this program is under the strict control of the federal government's budget, it has been a very valuable source of funding. Those students who do not have a bachelor's degree as yet, and are trying to enroll in a post-secondary institution which recognizes the grant can apply. Also, those post-graduate students who are who want to go in for a master's degree but cannot afford the school's tuition cost are eligible to apply. Another commonly sought grant is the Academic Competitiveness (AC) Grant which is available to undergraduate freshman and sophomores who have outstanding academic records and have passed with honors, and have also demonstrated aptitude for leadership and service. This is a perfect example of a student-based grant. Then there is the SMART, also known as The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant. This is basically for third and fourth year students who are unable to continue their education due to costs involved. This grants is eligible for those who are pursuing a degree in mathematics, computer sciences, biology, chemistry, physics, liberal arts, and engineering.

State Grants
Many states in the United States too have grant programs that are provided to resident students, and are based on merit, need, and area of study. The Florida Department of Education provides grants to wanting to study in the state itself. There is also the FSAG that aspiring students can avail. California Cal Grant Program is there based on a student's GPA and need for financial assistance. The Pennsylvania State Grant Program is there to provide grants to those students who have been accepted into a college or university approved by the PHEAA. The Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board also has grants for those who want to study in the state. It also provides for talented students based on some determining factors, by means of special program grants. Oklahoma provides needs-based grants and specialized grant programs. The grant programs of Michigan state are designed for a variety of students like undergraduates, academically gifted, low-income and adult students. Likewise, nearly every state government provides some sort of a grant for higher education. There are different types of assistance that can be availed, depending on various factors like merit, financial needs, etc.

Minorities Grants
African-American student grants have become hugely popular these days. As a matter of fact, the percentage of students belonging to the minorities background and have graduated with a four-year degree has risen dramatically. Around 40 colleges and universities in the US are catering to grants specifically for African-Americans. If you are a female African-American student, then you must contact Spelman College, as currently it is the most popular college in the United States that is nurturing the needs female African-American students. States like Arizona, Texas, California, and Florida are known to have Hispanic serving colleges that offer grants especially for the Hispanic community. Native Americans, besides being the smallest minorhty student group, are also the most disadvantaged. For them, there are the Native American Grants. Then there is the Grants for Asian American Students, which caters to the Asian Americans, who are the fastest growing ethnic population in the US.

Subject Specific Grants
These grants are very common, especially considering the fact that many professional organizations would like to have some research done on the product of their organization. Corporations spend million of dollars on grants with the objective of attracting academically driven and talented students to their corporate folds. Specifically for the health care industry, the US Department of Health and Human Services provides grants for students who are disadvantaged. Fields like nursing and teaching, which need extra funding due to resource challenges, mainly due to the fact that the enrollment rate is much lesser than the number of jobs that are needed to be filled, are awarded grants to boost the sector in the overall market scenario.

Student Specific Grants
Some grants have been designed keeping a specific category of students in mind. The most common categories are non-traditional (like adult students), low-income (or disadvantaged), graduate, undergraduate, high school and military. There are also various grants available for those who want to pursue a doctoral degree. There are grants that target the low-income range of students. Courses offered include evening and weekend classes, that embrace especially those who are working and cannot afford a higher education due to monetary issues.

Women Grants
The grant programs that have been designed for women help promote the participation of women in under-represented degree programs like science, mathematics and business. The American Association of University Women, which is considered to be one of the most influential organizations in the United States, offers a wide variety of grants to minority and disadvantaged women who want to return to college and pursue a degree. Grants are promoted for women especially is sectors like nursing, medical research, math, science and engineering. The most popular associations providing grants for women are The National Physical Science Consortium and The National Black Nurses Association.

If you are a student or your child wants to go to college, or you know somebody who needs these grants in order to go to college, then you can contact the local schools in your district and find out more about the grants that can be availed. A fair academic requirement is a must. Every individual has a right to an education, and many organizations make an enormous effort to ensure that you receive a good education. You just need to make an effort to approach them, and if you meet their requirements, then they usually do everything possible to help you out.
By Ranjan Shandilya

Benefits of College Education

The high cost of college education often serves as a deterrent for many, in getting a higher degree, especially when it comes to students from low income families. After all, the high costs, education loans and the resultant debt can scare anybody. Sometimes, a student fresh out of high school may feel that he is still not sure what he wants to do in his life so how can he decide which degree to opt for. Other reasons for deciding against going to college are finding oneself too ill equipped to handle the studies and pressures of college life, and when nobody from the family has ever had a higher education.

Although, some of these reasons are valid, still a person should understand that there are many benefits of college education such as high income and a better quality of life in the future. So, when deciding whether or not to go for career education, a person should keep the bigger picture in mind. To better understand the worth of college education in future, given below are some of the main college education benefits.

Benefits of College Education

More Job Opportunities
There is no denying the fact that people who have a college degree are more valued and sought after in the job market compared to those who have just passed high school. Especially, since the time recession has begun, recruitment in the corporate sector is moving at a snail's pace. And even if companies do recruit people, they would obviously prefer the ones with a college education, reason enough for continuing education.

Overall Development
College education is not just about academics. A student participates in a number of extra curricular activities during his college years. He works on a number of presentations and assignments as well. Many experts in the field are often called at colleges to give lectures to the students. All these things help in molding the personality of a person. It is a known fact that higher education does help in improving a person's reasoning, analytical and problem solving skills. Also, many of the students stay away from their families for the first time in their lives during their college years. Thus, they tend to become more responsible and serious about life while studying at college.

High Income
If you go by the statistics, there are many financial benefits of college education. Studies have shown that people who have a higher degree tend to earn approximately twenty five percent more than those without it. The reason behind it is that those with a professional degree usually have more in-depth knowledge of their field, not to mention the practical experience they gain during their college years. This makes them higher earning professionals in comparison to the non degree holders.

Better Equipped
Importance of college education can be understood from the way it equips a person to meet competition head on. The past two decades has seen a stream of professionals from countries such as India, China, South America, Korea, etc. make a beeline for America in search of job opportunities. An average American has to compete with these highly educated, experienced, ambitious and hardworking people to get a job. In such a scenario, a college education will better equip him to compete with these professionals.

Progress in Career
One of the benefits of college is that college degree holders are much more likely to get promotions and makes strides in their chosen field of work in comparison to the non-degree holders. A higher degree makes a person more knowledgeable and fosters creative, out of the box thinking in him. Corporates are always on a look out for people who can suggest them some new, profitable ways of doing things. This makes college degree holders ideal for a leadership position and thus, they are more likely to get promoted or given a raise.

High Self-esteem
When a person is knowledgeable, going great guns in his career, earning well, it is but obvious that he will be very satisfied with his life. He will not only be a much happier person but is likely to be very confident as well. A happy person will be productive in workplace and also good in his personal relationships.

It's not just the individual and his family who enjoys the benefits of college education, the society in general profits a lot too when people become educated, knowledgeable and start earning well. Studies have shown that very rarely do educated, well earning people commit crimes. These people are more devoted to their families, raise their children the right way, pay the taxes on time and are even more likely to participate in religious and philanthropic activities. So, looking at the societal, individual and familial college education benefits, it can be said that it is a must-have in today's times.
By Aastha Dogra

Benefits of College Education

The high cost of college education often serves as a deterrent for many, in getting a higher degree, especially when it comes to students from low income families. After all, the high costs, education loans and the resultant debt can scare anybody. Sometimes, a student fresh out of high school may feel that he is still not sure what he wants to do in his life so how can he decide which degree to opt for. Other reasons for deciding against going to college are finding oneself too ill equipped to handle the studies and pressures of college life, and when nobody from the family has ever had a higher education.

Although, some of these reasons are valid, still a person should understand that there are many benefits of college education such as high income and a better quality of life in the future. So, when deciding whether or not to go for career education, a person should keep the bigger picture in mind. To better understand the worth of college education in future, given below are some of the main college education benefits.

Benefits of College Education

More Job Opportunities
There is no denying the fact that people who have a college degree are more valued and sought after in the job market compared to those who have just passed high school. Especially, since the time recession has begun, recruitment in the corporate sector is moving at a snail's pace. And even if companies do recruit people, they would obviously prefer the ones with a college education, reason enough for continuing education.

Overall Development
College education is not just about academics. A student participates in a number of extra curricular activities during his college years. He works on a number of presentations and assignments as well. Many experts in the field are often called at colleges to give lectures to the students. All these things help in molding the personality of a person. It is a known fact that higher education does help in improving a person's reasoning, analytical and problem solving skills. Also, many of the students stay away from their families for the first time in their lives during their college years. Thus, they tend to become more responsible and serious about life while studying at college.

High Income
If you go by the statistics, there are many financial benefits of college education. Studies have shown that people who have a higher degree tend to earn approximately twenty five percent more than those without it. The reason behind it is that those with a professional degree usually have more in-depth knowledge of their field, not to mention the practical experience they gain during their college years. This makes them higher earning professionals in comparison to the non degree holders.

Better Equipped
Importance of college education can be understood from the way it equips a person to meet competition head on. The past two decades has seen a stream of professionals from countries such as India, China, South America, Korea, etc. make a beeline for America in search of job opportunities. An average American has to compete with these highly educated, experienced, ambitious and hardworking people to get a job. In such a scenario, a college education will better equip him to compete with these professionals.

Progress in Career
One of the benefits of college is that college degree holders are much more likely to get promotions and makes strides in their chosen field of work in comparison to the non-degree holders. A higher degree makes a person more knowledgeable and fosters creative, out of the box thinking in him. Corporates are always on a look out for people who can suggest them some new, profitable ways of doing things. This makes college degree holders ideal for a leadership positionand thus, they are more likely to get promoted or given a raise.

High Self-esteem
When a person is knowledgeable, going great guns in his career, earning well, it is but obvious that he will be very satisfied with his life. He will not only be a much happier person but is likely to be very confident as well. A happy person will be productive in workplace and also good in his personal relationships.

It's not just the individual and his family who enjoys the benefits of college education, the society in general profits a lot too when people become educated, knowledgeable and start earning well. Studies have shown that very rarely do educated, well earning people commit crimes. These people are more devoted to their families, raise their children the right way, pay the taxes on time and are even more likely to participate in religious and philanthropic activities. So, looking at the societal, individual and familial college education benefits, it can be said that it is a must-have in today's times.
By Aastha Dogra

Best Universities in the World

Getting an admission in some of the best universities is a tough job for most students. These esteemed educational institutes provide the best infrastructure and educational facilities to those who can make their cut. A good education is the key to a good career and most employers would prefer their future employees to graduate from a reputed university. Mentioned below are universities globally known for their world-class educational and infrastructural facilities. So let's have a look at some of the top universities in the world.

Best Universities in the World for Engineering

To be a successful engineer it is essential that a student spends most of his/her time gaining technical and analytical knowledge. And the correct knowledge can only be provided at institutions which are built to train budding engineers and have excellent credentials. Here are some of the best universities for engineering.

    * Massachusetts Institute of Technology - MIT (USA)
    * Stanford University - California (USA)
    * Tohoku University - Tohoku (Japan)
    * Pennsylvania State University - Pennsylvania, (USA)
    * Purdue University - West Lafayette (USA)
    * University of Michigan - Ann Arbor (USA)
    * University of Texas - Austin (USA)
    * University of California - Berkeley (USA)
    * University of Toronto (Canada)
    * University of California - Santa Barbara (USA)
    * University of Cambridge (UK)
    * Zhejiang University (China)
    * University of Southern California (USA)
    * Carnegie Mellon University - Pittsburgh (USA)
    * University of Wisconsin - Madison (USA)
    * Kyoto University - Kyoto (Japan)
    * Princeton University - New Jersy (USA)
    * North Carolina State University - Raleigh (USA)
    * Northwestern University - Illinois (USA)
    * University of Washington - Seattle (USA)
    * Swiss Fed Inst Tech - Lausanne (Switzerland)
    * National University Singapore - Kent Ridge (Singapore)
    * Hong Kong University Science & Technology (Hong Kong)
    * Technion - Israel Institute of Technology - Haifa (Israel)
    * Osaka University - Osaka (Japan)
    * City University Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
    * Nanyang Tech University (Singapore)
    * Polytechnic Inst - Turin (Italy)
    * Tech University Denmark (Denmark)
    * Tsing Hua University - Taiwan (China)
    * University of Bordeaux 1 (France)
    * University of British Columbia - Greater Vancouver (Canada)
    * University of Leuven (Belgium)
    * University of Twente - Enschede (Netherlands)
    * Chinese University Hong Kong (Hong Kong)
    * Pohang University Science & Technology (South Korea)
    * University of Utrecht (Netherlands)
    * Uppsala University (Sweden)

Best Universities in the World for Medicine

The study of medicine can give you a very rewarding career. Whether you chose to become a doctor, a pharmacy technician or a nurse; having a degree from one of the top ranked universities in the world can be of immense benefit. Have a look at some of the top medical universities in the world.

    * University of Rochester, New York (USA)
    * University of Amsterdam (The Netherlands)
    * University of Colorado Health Sciences Center (USA)
    * University of Milan (Italy)
    * King's College London (UK)
    * University of Chicago (USA)
    * University of Florida (USA)
    * Brown University (USA)
    * McGill University (Canada)
    * University of Munich (Germany)
    * Boston University (USA)
    * Leiden University (The Netherlands)
    * University of Texas Health Science Center - Houston (USA)
    * University of Nottingham (UK)
    * Emory University (USA)
    * Tufts University (USA)
    * University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (USA)
    * Duke University (USA)
    * Vanderbilt University (USA)
    * University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (USA)
    * Yale University (USA)
    * Mayo Clinic College of Medicine (USA)
    * Karolinska Institute (Seden)
    * University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas (USA)
    * Johns Hopkins University (USA)

Best Universities in the World

%3Cdiv+style%3D%22text-align%3A+justify%3B%22%3E%0D%0AGetting+an+admission+in+some+of+the+best+universities+is+a+tough+job+for+most+students.+These+esteemed+educational+institutes+provide+the+best+infrastructure+and+educational+facilities+to+those+who+can+make+their+cut.+A+good+education+is+the+key+to+a+good+career+and+most+employers+would+prefer+their+future+employees+to+graduate+from+a+reputed+university.+Mentioned+below+are+universities+globally+known+for+their+world-class+educational+and+infrastructural+facilities.+So+let%27s+have+a+look+at+some+of+the+top+universities+in+the+world.%0D%0A%0D%0ABest+Universities+in+the+World+for+Engineering%0D%0A%0D%0ATo+be+a+successful+engineer+it+is+essential+that+a+student+spends+most+of+his%2Fher+time+gaining+technical+and+analytical+knowledge.+And+the+correct+knowledge+can+only+be+provided+at+institutions+which+are+built+to+train+budding+engineers+and+have+excellent+credentials.+Here+are+some+of+the+best+universities+for+engineering.%0D%0A%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Massachusetts+Institute+of+Technology+-+MIT+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Stanford+University+-+California+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Tohoku+University+-+Tohoku+%28Japan%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Pennsylvania+State+University+-+Pennsylvania%2C+%28USA%29%0D%%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Purdue+University+-+West+Lafayette+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Michigan+-+Ann+Arbor+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Texas+-+Austin+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+California+-+Berkeley+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Toronto+%28Canada%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+California+-+Santa+Barbara+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Cambridge+%28UK%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Zhejiang+University+%28China%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Southern+California+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Carnegie+Mellon+University+-+Pittsburgh+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Wisconsin+-+Madison+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Kyoto+University+-+Kyoto+%28Japan%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Princeton+University+-+New+Jersy+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+North+Carolina+State+University+-+Raleigh+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Northwestern+University+-+Illinois+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Washington+-+Seattle+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Swiss+Fed+Inst+Tech+-+Lausanne+%28Switzerland%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+National+University+Singapore+-+Kent+Ridge+%28Singapore%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Hong+Kong+University+Science+%26amp%3B+Technology+%28Hong+Kong%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Technion+-+Israel+Institute+of+Technology+-+Haifa+%28Israel%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Osaka+University+-+Osaka+%28Japan%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+City+University+Hong+Kong+%28Hong+Kong%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Nanyang+Tech+University+%28Singapore%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Polytechnic+Inst+-+Turin+%28Italy%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Tech+University+Denmark+%28Denmark%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Tsing+Hua+University+-+Taiwan+%28China%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Bordeaux+1+%28France%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+British+Columbia+-+Greater+Vancouver+%28Canada%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Leuven+%28Belgium%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Twente+-+Enschede+%28Netherlands%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Chinese+University+Hong+Kong+%28Hong+Kong%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Pohang+University+Science+%26amp%3B+Technology+%28South+Korea%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Utrecht+%28Netherlands%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+Uppsala+University+%28Sweden%29%0D%0A%0D%0ABest+Universities+in+the+World+for+Medicine%0D%0A%0D%0AThe+study+of+medicine+can+give+you+a+very+rewarding+career.+Whether+you+chose+to+become+a+doctor%2C+a+pharmacy+technician+or+a+nurse%3B+having+a+degree+from+one+of+the+top+ranked+universities+in+the+world+can+be+of+immense+benefit.+Have+a+look+at+some+of+the+top+medical+universities+in+the+world.%0D%0A%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Rochester%2C+New+York+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Amsterdam+%28The+Netherlands%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Colorado+Health+Sciences+Center+%28USA%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Milan+%28Italy%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+King%27s+College+London+%28UK%29%0D%0A%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B%26nbsp%3B+*+University+of+Chicago+%28U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Benefits of College Education

The high cost of college education often serves as a deterrent for many, in getting a higher degree, especially when it comes to students from low income families. After all, the high costs, education loans and the resultant debt can scare anybody. Sometimes, a student fresh out of high school may feel that he is still not sure what he wants to do in his life so how can he decide which degree to opt for. Other reasons for deciding against going to college are finding oneself too ill equipped to handle the studies and pressures of college life, and when nobody from the family has ever had a higher education.

Although, some of these reasons are valid, still a person should understand that there are many benefits of college education such as high income and a better quality of life in the future. So, when deciding whether or not to go for career education, a person should keep the bigger picture in mind. To better understand the worth of college education in future, given below are some of the main college education benefits.

Benefits of College Education

More Job Opportunities
There is no denying the fact that people who have a college degree are more valued and sought after in the job market compared to those who have just passed high school. Especially, since the time recession has begun, recruitment in the corporate sector is moving at a snail's pace. And even if companies do recruit people, they would obviously prefer the ones with a college education, reason enough for continuing education.

Overall Development
College education is not just about academics. A student participates in a number of extra curricular activities during his college years. He works on a number of presentations and assignments as well. Many experts in the field are often called at colleges to give lectures to the students. All these things help in molding the personality of a person. It is a known fact that higher education does help in improving a person's reasoning, analytical and problem solving skills. Also, many of the students stay away from their families for the first time in their lives during their college years. Thus, they tend to become more responsible and serious about life while studying at college.

High Income
If you go by the statistics, there are many financial benefits of college education. Studies have shown that people who have a higher degree tend to earn approximately twenty five percent more than those without it. The reason behind it is that those with a professional degree usually have more in-depth knowledge of their field, not to mention the practical experience they gain during their college years. This makes them higher earning professionals in comparison to the non degree holders.

Better Equipped
Importance of college education can be understood from the way it equips a person to meet competition head on. The past two decades has seen a stream of professionals from countries such as India, China, South America, Korea, etc. make a beeline for America in search of job opportunities. An average American has to compete with these highly educated, experienced, ambitious and hardworking people to get a job. In such a scenario, a college education will better equip him to compete with these professionals.

Progress in Career
One of the benefits of college is that college degree holders are much more likely to get promotions and makes strides in their chosen field of work in comparison to the non-degree holders. A higher degree makes a person more knowledgeable and fosters creative, out of the box thinking in him. Corporates are always on a look out for people who can suggest them some new, profitable ways of doing things. This makes college degree holders ideal for a leadership position and thus, they are more likely to get promoted or given a raise.

High Self-esteem
When a person is knowledgeable, going great guns in his career, earning well, it is but obvious that he will be very satisfied with his life. He will not only be a much happier person but is likely to be very confident as well. A happy person will be productive in workplace and also good in his personal relationships.

It's not just the individual and his family who enjoys the benefits of college education, the society in general profits a lot too when people become educated, knowledgeable and start earning well. Studies have shown that very rarely do educated, well earning people commit crimes. These people are more devoted to their families, raise their children the right way, pay the taxes on time and are even more likely to participate in religious and philanthropic activities. So, looking at the societal, individual and familial college education benefits, it can be said that it is a must-have in today's times.
By Aastha Dogra

College Grants

With the massive tuition fees that one has to pay for colleges, there are many people for whom going to college just remains a dream. Fortunately, these colleges also recognize the necessity of providing scholarships and grants to deserving candidates, and make their dreams of going to college come true. A college grant is similar to a scholarship. However, unlike scholarships, where there is no follow-up on the progress the students makes, grants require a service, and the organization that provides the grants generally checks on the progress the student makes, and ensures that all obligations are properly met. These are usually awarded to graduate students in an effort to fund research or encourage study in a particular field or topic. It is usually the case where grants are not provided towards tuition fees but for expenses necessary to complete research. There are very few grants available for undergraduate students. The grant amounts vary greatly and can range from $100 to even $100,000.

Applying for a College Grant

First, you need to ascertain the reason for which you are going to apply for a grant, be it degree-based, program-based, or even a minority grant. Grants are given on certain factors like tuition cost, family income, academic achievements, field of study, minority category, etc. Family assets, student dependency, and expected family contribution are also taken into consideration at this time. Things that need to be in order from the student who is applying are basic requirements like high school diploma, US citizenship / eligible foreigner, SSN, no criminal record, and no default on a student loam repayment. After taking all factors into account and scrutinizing the application, the student will receive a report which states all the eligibility details. Some things to keep in mind are: submit your application on time, make sure you know what you are applying for exactly, and that you are eligible for the same, and confirm that your documentation is all in place.

Types of College Grants

There are various types of grants provided by different organizations. The categories under which the grants are provided are generally divided as student specific, subject specific, degree level or for a minority community. Some of the common types of college grants are as follows.

Federal Grants
These grants are provided by the federal government. Some of the famous and commonly sought grants are the Pell grant that has been in existence since 1972, and has provided funding to millions of low-income students. Although this program is under the strict control of the federal government's budget, it has been a very valuable source of funding. Those students who do not have a bachelor's degree as yet, and are trying to enroll in a post-secondary institution which recognizes the grant can apply. Also, those post-graduate students who are who want to go in for a master's degree but cannot afford the school's tuition cost are eligible to apply. Another commonly sought grant is the Academic Competitiveness (AC) Grant which is available to undergraduate freshman and sophomores who have outstanding academic records and have passed with honors, and have also demonstrated aptitude for leadership and service. This is a perfect example of a student-based grant. Then there is the SMART, also known as The National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant. This is basically for third and fourth year students who are unable to continue their education due to costs involved. This grants is eligible for those who are pursuing a degree in mathematics, computer sciences, biology, chemistry, physics, liberal arts, and engineering.

State Grants
Many states in the United States too have grant programs that are provided to resident students, and are based on merit, need, and area of study. The Florida Department of Education provides grants to wanting to study in the state itself. There is also the FSAG that aspiring students can avail. California Cal Grant Program is there based on a student's GPA and need for financial assistance. The Pennsylvania State Grant Program is there to provide grants to those students who have been accepted into a college or university approved by the PHEAA. The Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board also has grants for those who want to study in the state. It also provides for talented students based on some determining factors, by means of special program grants. Oklahoma provides needs-based grants and specialized grant programs. The grant programs of Michigan state are designed for a variety of students like undergraduates, academically gifted, low-income and adult students. Likewise, nearly every state government provides some sort of a grant for higher education. There are different types of assistance that can be availed, depending on various factors like merit, financial needs, etc.

Minorities Grants
African-American student grants have become hugely popular these days. As a matter of fact, the percentage of students belonging to the minorities background and have graduated with a four-year degree has risen dramatically. Around 40 colleges and universities in the US are catering to grants specifically for African-Americans. If you are a female African-American student, then you must contact Spelman College, as currently it is the most popular college in the United States that is nurturing the needs female African-American students. States like Arizona, Texas, California, and Florida are known to have Hispanic serving colleges that offer grants especially for the Hispanic community. Native Americans, besides being the smallest minority student group, are also the most disadvantaged. For them, there are the Native American Grants. Then there is the Grants for Asian American Students, which caters to the Asian Americans, who are the fastest growing ethnic population in the US.

Subject Specific Grants
These grants are very common, especially considering the fact that many professional organizations would like to have some research done on the product of their organization. Corporations spend million of dollars on grants with the objective of attracting academically driven and talented students to their corporate folds. Specifically for the health care industry, the US Department of Health and Human Services provides grants for students who are disadvantaged. Fields like nursing and teaching, which need extra funding due to resource challenges, mainly due to the fact that the enrollment rate is much lesser than the number of jobs that are needed to be filled, are awarded grants to boost the sector in the overall market scenario.

Student Specific Grants
Some grants have been designed keeping a specific category of students in mind. The most common categories are non-traditional (like adult students), low-income (or disadvantaged), graduate, undergraduate, high school and military. There are also various grants available for those who want to pursue a doctoral degree. There are grants that target the low-income range of students. Courses offered include evening and weekend classes, that embrace especially those who are working and cannot afford a higher education due to monetary issues.

Women Grants
The grant programs that have been designed for women help promote the participation of women in under-represented degree programs like science, mathematics and business. The American Association of University Women, which is considered to be one of the most influential organizations in the United States, offers a wide variety of grants to minority and disadvantaged women who want to return to college and pursue a degree. Grants are promoted for women especially is sectors like nursing, medical research, math, science and engineering. The most popular associations providing grants for women are The National Physical Science Consortium and The National Black Nurses Association.

If you are a student or your child wants to go to college, or you know somebody who needs these grants in order to go to college, then you can contact the local schools in your district and find out more about the grants that can be availed. A fair academic requirement is a must. Every individual has a right to an education, and many organizations make an enormous effort to ensure that you receive a good education. You just need to make an effort to approach them, and if you meet their requirements, then they usually do everything possible to help you out.
By Ranjan Shandilya

Why is College Important

Many parents and high school students often ask the question, Why is college important, and what can be gained from it. After all, college education is not something that comes cheap and it does take a few years before an individual can start earning his/her own income. But this is where thinking about the future career education becomes important. One should know that a college degree opens up many newer doors of employment in the future, even though it takes a bit longer to get there. The purpose of college education, is therefore, to live a better life.

Education is, after all, an investment, and the more time invested into it, will eventually translate into greater returns in the long run. It is said that a person with a college degree has the ability to earn more than twice the amount that a person with a high school diploma will earn, in their lifetimes. Moreover, a college degree gives one the option of enjoying greater health benefits, tax benefits and also garner greater respect in society.

Importance of College

Let's look at a few reasons why obtaining these types of college degrees is vitally important and beneficial. All these reasons have different attractions for different individuals, but no matter who you are and where you come from, obtaining a college degree is something you should be sincerely aiming for.

Better Jobs
This is the first answer to the question Why is going to college important. Employment opportunities are far better for someone with a college degree, as employers are assured that this person has working knowledge of their business and can cope with a competitive work environment as well. The skill set owned by the individual will also be higher than someone who does not have a college education.

Greater Experiences
The act of attending college teaches individuals how to manage their lives. Most college students are juggling their college life between studying for their exams and earning money through small jobs to support their college tuition. In addition to this, they are enjoying the benefits of a good social life, parties and lots of friends. The experiences one has in college really transforms teenagers into adults, and gears them up for the real world. This is a vital answer to the question Why is electoral college important.

Liberalization
If a teenager has grown up with a fixed mindset, then college is the place he/she will really open up their mind. With a vast array of people from all walks of life accompanying him, he is bound to see the world as it really is, and learn to accept people for what they are. All stereotypes and discrimination will be dropped eventually, and this is why college plays a large part in liberating a persons mind.

Friends
Another answer to Why is college important for young people today is the fact that a person will make a large network of close friends in college. These are people with whom the individual will share a strong bond for the rest of his/her life, and this will also help in building a network of career opportunities in the future. This is one of the most important benefits of college.

Confidence and Growth
Obtaining a college education also helps an individual develop their confidence in themselves and grow as human beings. This will be a very important development for all future endeavors, and will also provide the individual with the strength to set forth in the world and do well. All these factors make a college degree vitally important to obtain, and should encourage all high school students to pursue higher education.

A college degree opens up doors to greater avenues and possibilities, and this is an aspect of education that must not be ignored at any cost. There are many people who do not realize the importance of college education, and live to regret this decision later in their lives. With the help of this article, we hope you have received satisfactory answers to the question Why is college important for everyone.
By Rahul Thadani

Oldest University in the World


To devise a list of the oldest University in the world, we need to understand what a university is. There have been learning centers for students all around the world for many centuries, ever since knowledge started spreading, but not all olden learning centers can be classified as Universities. In order to be classified as a University, an educational institution should be the oldest institution in its region. Moreover, it should be enjoying a more or less uninterrupted functionality since the time it was created.

There are many ancient learning and educational institutions which do not qualify as Universities today, so therefore they are not a part of this list. Also, if an educational institution was started as a University many centuries ago, it is more likely to be classified as a University today.

Top 10 Oldest Universities in the World

All the Universities mentioned here are hundreds of years old, and are well-known and prestigious learning centers. Students from all over the world regularly come to these Universities to pursue their higher education. Here is a brief list made in search of the oldest University in the world.

University of Al-Karaouine
Also known as the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, this was founded in 859 AD by a woman called Fatima Al-Fihri. Located in Fes, Morocco this is the oldest Madrassa in the world, and is revered by the Muslim world in particular. The Guinness Book of World Records has recorded this as the oldest continuously-operating degree-granting University in the world. Thus, this is the answer to the question Which is the oldest known university in the world.

Al-Azhar University
Located in Cairo, Egypt this is the second oldest degree-granting University in the world. It is also considered as one of the premier educational institutions in the Islamic world, and was founded around 972 AD. The University teaches a unique blend of modern science and Quranic sciences and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

Nizamiyya
This is not an independently standing University by itself, it is simply a series of Universities started by Khwaja Nizam Al-Mulk, in Iran in the 11th century AD. These Universities eclipsed all other educational centers. The crown jewel in these series of Universities is the Al-Nizammiya of Baghdad, founded in 1065 AD in Dhu'l Qa'da. Other places of operation are Amul, Mosul, Basra, Herat, Damascus and Nishapur. Due to its heritage and history, it cannot be ignored in a list about the oldest University in the world.

University of Bologna
Being the first University established in the Christian world, the University of Bologna has a rich heritage since it was founded in 1088 AD. The term 'University' was coined due to this prestigious institution, and it was the leading center for higher education, right until the early 20th century. Located in Bologna, Italy, even today the University of Bologna is a much revered and immensely popular center for pursuing higher studies.

University of Paris
This University was founded around 1096 AD, and was one of the premier higher education centers in the world, for the fields of arts, medicine, theology and law. Sadly, the University shut down in 1970, and today it operates as 13 different Universities, by the name of University of Paris I-XIII. Located around the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, this University is also known as the Sorbonne, or the College de Sorbonne.

University of Oxford
Founded in the early 11th century (about the same time as the University of Paris), this University is located in the city of Oxford, England. It is regarded as one of the best places to get higher education today, and it contains about 38 different colleges today, specializing in various fields of study. The University had to be created due to the fact that King Henry II banned English students from attending the University of Paris. Its worldwide reputation and heritage make it a worthy candidate for this 'Oldest University in the world' list.

University of Montpelier
Though the official founding date is 1150 AD, the teachings in this University began way before that. Located in Montpelier, France, this University focuses mainly on the teachings of science and technology today. Medicine and law are also very sought after courses here, and it was in fact founded by a teacher from the University of Bologna. The University was 're-founded' in the year 1969.

University of Cambridge
This University was formed by some scholars in 1209 AD who left the University of Oxford over a dispute. Consisting of over 31 colleges, this University has a long standing rivalry with the University of Oxford, and is in fact the second oldest University in the English speaking world. Located in the city of Cambridge, England, it is ranked in the top 5 Universities of the world today, and its alumni consists of no less than 87 different Nobel Laureates.

University of Salamanca
This is the oldest University in Spain, and is located in the town of Salamanca, a town west of Madrid. It was established in 1218 AD, and today is the premier University in the world for studying humanities and languages. Christopher Columbus, famously consulted with the scholars from this University when he was seeking a route to the Indies. The divide between the people of Leon and Castile in Spain led to the rise of this University, as the Leonese king Alfonso IX created this University, so that the people of Leon did not have to go to Castile to pursue higher education. This rich history makes it worthy to be a part of this 'Oldest University in the world' list.

University of Padua
A group of scholars broke away from the University of Bologna in search of more academic freedom, and established the University of Padua in 1222 AD. The fields of botany, history and theater are the most well-known and pursued courses here, and this has established its greatness in the educated world. It is therefore, the second oldest University in Italy, and is located in the city of Padua, Italy.

So these were some prestigious answers to the question What are some of the most oldest Universities in the world, and all of these Universities are engulfed in a lot of history and tradition. If you're looking for the oldest University in the world, this article should satiate your needs.
By Rahul Thadani

Environmental Sciences - Online Career Education Opportunities

Online studies are a great way to complete the educational training required for a career in environmental sciences. With a variety of accredited online schools and colleges you can build the skills and knowledge needed to have a successful career. You will have the opportunity to choose how much time is spent on coursework, and where you study. Accredited online training programs can help you to create the path needed to enter into a successful career in the field of environmental sciences. You can train for your desired career by obtaining an accredited degree or certificate online.

Obtaining a certificate or degree in environmental sciences can help you to build your skills and knowledge to pursue the career you desire.

    * Certificate programs can take you anywhere from six months to one year to complete based on the specific area of study.
    * Training at the associate degree level will require you to complete two years of online education.
    * With an associate level degree you can pursue a bachelor's in the field by completing four years of study.
    * Master level degrees usually consist of an additional two years of accredited training.
    * Further education at the doctoral or PhD level can take an additional four years of training.

By obtaining an accredited online certificate or degree you will be prepared for a variety of exciting career opportunities.

Accredited educational training in this field will help to prepare you for the career of a lifetime. You can seek employment in a number of areas working as:

    * Oceanographers
    * Parks and Recreation Workers
    * Seismologists
    * Science Teachers
    * Water Management Workers
    * Hydrologists
    * Geoscientists
    * Environmental Consultants

...and a variety of other related professionals. By obtaining an accredited online education in environmental sciences you will have the skills you need to enter into the career you long for.

You will have the chance to study a variety of courses related to your specific career interest. Areas of study will vary based on the level of education you choose to receive but may include:

    * Biology
    * Microeconomics
    * Physics
    * Ecology
    * Geosciences
    * Chemistry
    * Climatology

...and many other courses. When you choose to gain an education in this field there are various options to choose from regarding specialties including natural resource management and environmental sciences. You can begin your career in either of these areas with online studies in these subjects.

Accredited online learning programs are available to give you the skills you need to enter into your desired career. Fully accredited schools and colleges are able to provide you with a quality education that will prepare you to succeed in this exciting field. There are numerous agencies such as the Distance Education and Training Council (http://www.detc.org/) that can give accreditation to online programs. You can ensure that you will receive the best possible education by enrolling in a fully accredited learning program. Start today by requesting more information on the environmental sciences career of your choice.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERIC OUTLINE and may or may not depict precise methods, courses and/or focuses related to ANY ONE specific school(s) that may or may not be advertised at PETAP.org.

Copyright 2010 - All rights reserved by PETAP.org.

Renata McGee is a staff writer for PETAP.org. Locate Online Environmental Science Schools as well as Campus Based Environmental Science Schools and Colleges at PETAP.org, your Partners in Education and Tuition Assistance Programs.