1. Arabic

   Arabic is becoming an increasingly important language in our world, but it’s a hard one for English speakers to pick up. Besides the initial setbacks of learning the Arabic alphabet in which most letters have four different forms and getting used to reading from right to left, many Arabic writers leave out the vowels, making it hard for a beginner to get the hang of vocabulary and comprehension. Then try pronouncing Arabic sounds, which can be very different from sounds we’re used to making in English, and figuring out the order of words and genders that words take on. With all of these foreign concepts to sort out, an Arabic student will take about a year in the classroom full-time and a year in-country to become proficient.

2. Basque

   You may not have even heard of this language spoken in Northern Spain and Southwest France, but we can bet you’d have a heck of a time learning it. Not even all of the Basque people speak this complicated language. Part of what makes it so difficult is that it is unrelated to any of the traditional European languages. In fact, linguists aren’t totally sure where it originated. In Basque, you can add suffixes, prefixes, and infixes to simple words, resulting in lots of long, complicated vocabulary. The grammar also differs enormously from Romance languages, from the way verbs are formed to how you use objects in sentences.

3. Japanese

   When learning a language related to English, you at least have the advantage of knowing the alphabet and pronouncing words based on this system. Even if the pronunciations are slightly different, you have a general idea. No such luck with Japanese. Because the language is composed largely of symbols, you have to learn written words and pronunciation separately. And since you can’t use mnemonic devices to help you remember, thousands of symbols must be memorized without using the techniques we typically use in English. The State Department gives students learning Japanese about three times as long to learn the language as they gives those studying Spanish or French.

4. Mandarin Chinese

   With so many Chinese speakers in the world, Mandarin is growing as an important language in business and modern life in general. This Chinese dialect is hard in similar ways to Japanese, as each character has its own pronunciation without giving phonetic clues within the word. This requires a lot of memorization to be able to read the language. A particularly difficult task for English-speaking students to undertake is understanding the tonal differences between words. In English, we use different tones to convey the meaning of a sentence — questions, commands, exclamations. In Chinese, there are four tones that can make one word mean four different things. On top of this, there are many homophones, or words that sound exactly the same but have different meanings. Some have as many as 30 meanings.

5. Korean

   To learn Korean, you’ll have to learn many characters, many of which come from Chinese, on top of learning a phonetic alphabet to build words and two sets of numbers. It also takes time to understand the difference in speech patterns used when talking to or about someone with a higher status than you, wrapping cultural lessons into the language-learning process. Many English speakers will find the pronunciation difficult, with tensed and aspirated consonant sounds that probably won’t sound different to your untrained ears.

6. Navajo

   The Navajo Nation stands in parts of Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico, and more than 170,000 people reportedly speak the Navajo language. But don’t expect it to be easy if you want to become one of these speakers. Besides a decreasing number of teachers, especially if you live away from the Navajo reservation, the structure of Navajo makes it pretty difficult for English speakers to pick up. It was even used during World War II to transmit messages because the Germans and Japanese couldn’t crack the code. Navajo uses prefixes on every verb, has up to 10 intonations on each vowel that can change the meaning of words, and many words can be very long. So if you want to learn Navajo, you’re going to have to work at it.

7. Hungarian

   You know all those conjugations you had to memorize when you learned French or Spanish in high school (and then promptly forgot when you graduated)? In Hungarian, you’d have to learn twice as many; you can conjugate almost every verb in two different ways depending on the object of the sentence. The Hungarian word order also takes some getting used to since you can change around the words depending on what you want to emphasize. If this weren’t enough to make Hungarian confusing, many of the letter combinations make different sounds than we’re used to in English, such as “c” being pronounced like “ts” and “gy” pronounced as “di.”

1. Get your exam materials

   Don’t wait until the last minute to get your No. 2 pencils, Scantrons, blue books, and other exam materials. Use dead day to go out and buy these essentials. You never know if bookstores will be open on the day or time of your exam and nothing’s worse than showing up to your exam unprepared. Don’t forget to reread notes and e-mails from your professors to make sure you’re not forgetting anything on exam day.

2. Meet with your professor

   Dead day is the perfect time to meet with your professors to ask questions and get help with any problems you may have before the exam. Be sure to secure a meeting time with your professor and come prepared with questions and notes so you can get the most out of your visit. Since this is really your last chance to chat about the exam and your grades, don’t hesitate to speak up and share your concerns. He or she will certainly appreciate your effort and may even cut you a break or give you some hints that weren’t mentioned during the exam review.

3. Clean up

   Sometimes, the best way to prepare for studying for your final exams is to get your house in order. Cleaning up your bedroom is a great way to relieve stress and prepare for the chaos that will soon ensue. Once things are clean and your belongings are put away, you can actually sit down and study and not be distracted by the mountain of clothes sitting in the corner. Best of all, you’re bound to find forgotten school supplies, notes, and other study materials that will come in handy for exams.

4. Get organized

   How many times have you gone to the library only to discover that you brought the wrong book or forgot a notebook that you needed to study? Taking a little extra time to organize your backpack and make sure you have all the right class materials can make your studying sessions much smoother. But don’t just stop there; organize your study schedule as well. Decide which subjects you need to study first and design a study schedule you can adhere to. This will help you prioritize your tasks and manage your time wisely.

5. Sleep

   It might sound counterproductive, but sleeping can be a smart way to spend your dead day. After all, if you’re going to be pulling late-night study sessions and all-nighters, you’re going to want to get some Z’s while you can. Getting a good night’s rest can significantly improve your focus and energy level, helping you study more productively and for a longer period of time.

6. Relax

   If you’re all caught up on sleep, but still need to relax your mind and body before tackling stressful exams, take dead day to do so. This might involve yoga, meditation, or sitting on the couch and watching your favorite movies all day. Just do whatever makes you feel relaxed and happy because stress and sleepless nights are right around the corner.

7. Do research

   If you can’t get motivated to hit the books but still want to knock out some school work on your day off, why not do some research for a project or paper? Gathering research is a time-consuming process that will most likely require you to go to the library and scour the Internet for data, but try not to get distracted by Facebook or the cute boy next to you. Once you complete your research, you’ll be one step closer to finishing and summer break!

8. Look for internships/jobs

   Don’t feel like studying on dead day? Join the club. Instead of partying or sleeping the day away, use the time to look for internships or jobs. Planning for the future is never a bad idea and the end of the semester is a good time to do this kind of research. This is also a good time to meet with an academic advisor or career counselor to discuss your future plans and get advice about summer internships or job opportunities.

1. Scams

   Criminals have been utilizing the scam for centuries. In the Facebook world, scams are particularly effective at drawing people in by simply enticing an individual to click on a link that would interest almost anyone, such as an innocent-looking notification that you’ve won a free prize like a gift card. Then, in order to claim the prize, scammers require you to submit some information, such as a credit card number or Social Security number. This description may make it seem like scams are easy to spot, but even the most savvy social media user has to be on the lookout for illegitimate requests for information.

2. Cyberbullying

   Cyberbullying is a common occurrence among teenagers on Facebook and one that can result in serious criminal charges if it goes far enough. Cyberbullying on Facebook has contributed to the deaths of several teens who either committed suicide or were killed by a peer. Cyberbullying that involves hacking or password and identity theft may be punishable under state and federal law. When adults engage in this kind of online behavior it is called cyber-harassment or cyberstalking.

3. Stalking

   The term “stalking” is thrown around a lot on Facebook, and it is often meant as a joke for regularly looking at someone’s profile. However, the actual act of cyberstalking is a common crime on the social networking site and can result in a serious offense. Cyberstalking typically involves harassing a person with messages, written threats, and other persistent online behavior that endangers a person’s safety. Although cyberstalking may seem like nothing more than annoying behavior, it is a legitimate cause for concern in many cases and can even lead to in-person stalking or endangerment if not treated seriously.

4. Robbery

   It doesn’t take much for a thief to find out where you live, go to school, work, or hang out if you make that information readily available on Facebook. If you use Facebook’s check-in or Google Maps feature, then you could be in a heap of trouble if a robber is paying attention. This person isn’t always a complete stranger either; they may be an old acquaintance or someone else you’d never expect to come rob you.

5. Identity theft

   With the large amount of personal information swarming around Facebook these days, it has become fairly easy for criminals to steal users’ identities. Hackers often break into users’ e-mails and make fake Facebook accounts. From there they can access personal and bank information and cause havoc to your sense of security. Protect yourself from identity theft on Facebook by keeping your profile very secure and free of personal information that a criminal would love to have.

6. Defamation

   An individual commits the crime of defamation when they communicate a false statement to a third party that paints another individual or entity in a negative light. Facebook makes communicating defamatory statements frighteningly easy, and the exposure Facebook provides makes it more likely that businesses or individuals will be harmed by the defamatory statement, and thus more likely to pursue legal remedies. Be careful what you say on Facebook; you may be committing a crime without even knowing it.

7. Harassment

   Harassment happens all the time on Facebook. From sexual harassment to assault threats, there has been a significant increase in the number of harassment cases happening on Facebook. It’s not uncommon for sex offenders and sexual predators to prey on unsuspecting victims on Facebook and even pose as a teen or college student. Harassing messages, inappropriate comments, and other persistent behaviors should be reported to Facebook and your local police station.

Many students today especially working adults are enrolling in online degree programs because of the convenience and flexibility that distance learning provides. In typical online programs, classes are not scheduled at set times like traditional classes. Instead, you go through the coursework during your free time. You can schedule your studies around your work and family time. Also, you save time because you don’t have to commute to the campus.

To help you choose an online degree, we researched the top degrees with the best job prospects and salaries. We looked at the data of The Occupational Outlook Handbook by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is an important resource because it has information about job prospects for many occupations. Also, it has salary information and degree requirements for each job.

In our research, we discovered 22 online degrees with good or very good job opportunities. We ranked these degrees by job opportunities, salary, and school admissions.

Click the links below to learn more about the degrees and the jobs they can lead to.

Online Degrees With Very Good Job Opportunities (Ranked by Salary)

1. MBA Degree in Technology Management
    Job: Computer and Information Systems Manager

2. PhD Degree in Computer Science
    Job: Computer Scientist

3. Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering
    Job: Computer Software Engineer

4. Master’s Degree in Education Administration
    Job: Education Administrator

5. Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
    Job: Computer Systems Analyst

6. Bachelor’s Degree in Databases
    Job: Database Administrator

7. Master’s Degree in Operations Research
    Job: Operations Research Analyst

8. Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Networks
    Job: Network and Computer Systems Administrator

9. Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing
    Job: Registered Nurse

10. Master’s Degree in Epidemiology
      Job: Epidemiologist

11. Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education
      Job: Special Education Teacher

12. Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
      Jobs: Probation Officer and Correctional Treatment Specialist

13. Associate’s Degree in Health Information Technology
      Job: Medical Records and Health Information Technician

Online Degrees With Good Job Opportunities (Ranked by Salary)

14. Bachelor’s Degree in Communications
      Job: Technical Writer

15. Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science
      Job: Environmental Scientist and Specialist

16. Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting
      Jobs: Accountant and Auditor

17. Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction
      Job: Instructional Coordinator

18. Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management
      Job: Cost Estimator

19. Master’s Degree in Library Science
      Job: Librarian

20. Master’s Degree in Counseling
      Job: Counselor

21. Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems
      Job: Computer Support Specialist

A Degree with Good Job Opportunities but School Admissions are Competitive

22. Master’s Degree in Health Administration
      Job: Medical and Health Services Manager

Fortunately, if you don’t want to spend a lot of time in school, there are health care jobs that pay a decent wage and do not require a graduate degree. Here are the top 10 paying jobs in health care that you can qualify for with a bachelor’s degree.

1. Radiation Therapist

Median Salary in 2010: $74,980 ($36.05/hour)

Radiation therapists deliver radiation therapy to cancer patients. They are specially trained to use a machine called a linear accelerator to direct radiation towards the area of the body that needs it, as prescribed by a radiation oncologist and radiation physicist. They operate the linear accelerator in a separate room to avoid radiation exposure. They can still interact with the patient during the procedure through an intercom system.

Radiation therapists also interact with patients, answering any questions or concerns they have, and are responsible for keeping accurate records of treatment sessions. They must have people skills and be able to handle stress since they interact with patients dealing with cancer. They must also have math and science skills and be detail-oriented to keep accurate treatment records. They should have the physical ability to help patients on and off the treatment table.

Some states require radiation therapists to be licensed or certified to be employed in the field, and they may be required to take continuing medical education courses or exams to maintain employment. Most radiation therapists work in radiation treatment centers or hospitals.

Job opportunities for radiation therapists are expected to grow by 27% between 2008 and 2018. As the population ages, there will be a greater demand for these workers so job prospects look favorable. The median annual salary for radiation therapists in 2010 was $74,980, or $36.05 an hour. In addition, many radiation therapists get reimbursements for continuing medical education.

2. Registered Nurse

Median Salary in 2010: $64,690 ($31.10/hour)

[Browse our list of online bachelor's degrees in nursing]

Registered nurses, or RNs, work in hospital or outpatient treatment settings where they perform a variety of medical duties. Some specialize in specific areas of patient care such as surgical or pediatric nursing. In general, they are responsible for administering medications and other treatments as prescribed by the doctor and attending to the basic health needs of patients.

If they work in a hospital setting, they are responsible for closely monitoring patients and keeping the doctor informed about their progress. Nurses also educate patients and their families about medical conditions. Some work in critical care settings or function as an operating room nurse. The opportunities for nursing practice are wide and varied.

Anyone entering this field should feel comfortable working with patients who are sick. They should be physically capable of helping patients who are disabled. Nurses must be knowledgeable about how to safely administer medications and how to prevent the spread of infection. In some cases, nurses may be exposed to hazardous compounds or infectious materials. Candidates should have an aptitude for science since nurses must be well-versed in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, mental health, and other health-related areas.

After completing a nursing program, prospective nurses must pass an exam to receive a license to practice nursing. Some nurses go on to get more advanced education to become advanced practice nurses. With additional training and education, they can become nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, or nurse specialists. Some also become nurse administrators, teachers, or researchers.

The job market for registered nurses are projected to grow by 22% between 2008 and 2018. The greatest areas of growth will be outpatient settings such as doctor’s offices or home health. Advanced practice nurses will also be in great demand. In 2010, registered nurses earned a median annual salary of $64,690, or $31.10 an hour.

3. Occupational Health and Safety Specialist

Median Salary in 2010: $64,660 ($31.09/hour)

[Browse our list of online bachelor's degrees in public safety]

Occupational health and safety specialists help ensure that workers carry out their duties in safe work areas that are free of toxins or safety hazards. They conduct site inspections and work with companies to design safety programs to keep their employees safe and free of injury. The responsibilities of an occupational health and safety specialist vary depending on the setting they work in.

They may focus on minimizing health hazards (such as radiation and hazardous waste) or designing systems to reduce accidents and prevent employee fatigue in the workplace. Occupational health and safety specialists work in a variety of settings including factories, offices, and mines.

If you wish to enter this field, you should realize that you may be exposed to toxins or other hazards. The tasks of an occupational health and safety specialist are quite varied and may involve travel and irregular work hours. Good candidates should be capable of handling stress and comfortable working in a variety of settings. They should also have an interest and aptitude for science, be detailed oriented, and able to communicate well.

To be competitive in the job market, candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in a health or science-related field such as biology, engineering, or occupational health. Most successful candidates also complete some field work or an internship in occupational health. Most employers prefer that candidates be credentialed, which involves passing a certification exam. This usually requires additional courses in occupational health beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Employment opportunities for occupational health and safety specialists are projected to grow by 11% between 2008 and 2018, which is above average. The median annual salary of these workers in 2010 was $64,660, or $31.09 an hour.

4. Clinical Laboratory Technologist

Median Salary in 2010: $56,130 ($27.34/hour)

Clinical laboratory technologists are responsible for running laboratory studies to check for or monitor the course of a disease. They use instruments such as microscopes and cell counters to examine body fluids such as blood or urine for bacteria or other abnormalities. Today lab techs also use increasingly more sophisticated automated equipment to conduct more advanced studies. Once completed, clinical laboratory technologists record the results and communicate the results to the physician.

A successful clinical laboratory technologist pays attention to detail and is able to analyze complex laboratory data. The job involves exposure to potentially infectious body fluids, although the risk is minimized by the use of protective masks, gloves, and other safety equipment.

Clinical laboratory technologists should have a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a health science field. Many employers prefer candidates who are certified by a professional association such as the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Clinical laboratory technologists can advance into administrative or supervisory positions with additional education and experience.

Jobs for clinical laboratory technologists are expected to grow by 14% between 2008 and 2018. The median annual salary for these workers in 2010 was $56,130, or $27.34 per hour. Salaries are highest for technologists employed by hospitals. Technologists also work in physician offices, medical laboratories, and colleges.

5. Respiratory Therapist

Median Salary in 2010: $54,280 ($26.10/hour)

Respiratory therapists work with physicians to treat patients with breathing problems. They evaluate patients by interviewing them and carrying out diagnostic tests to assess lung function. Then, under a doctor’s guidance, they design and administer appropriate treatments to patients with heart or lung problems.

They work with patients who require mechanical ventilation to breathe. They administer oxygen and perform chest physiotherapy on patients to remove mucous from their lungs. They work in hospital settings and they may visit homes to help patients who have to be on home ventilation.

Respiratory therapists should have an aptitude for science and good mathematical skills. They should feel comfortable working with people who are sick and stressed out because of their breathing problems. They should also have good communication skills to educate patients.

An entry-level respiratory therapist must have a two-year associate’s degree. To advance beyond entry-level positions, you need a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Some colleges, universities, and technical schools offer respiratory therapy programs. Once training is completed, you are required to pass a licensing exam to practice as a respiratory therapist. There are opportunities to advance to supervisory and managerial positions in respiratory therapy with advanced education.

The future looks bright for respiratory therapists. Employment for these workers is expected to grow by 21% between 2008 and 2018. They earned a median annual salary of $54,280, or $26.10 per hour, in 2010. Most respiratory therapists are employed by hospitals, but there is a growing job market in outpatient settings.

6. Dietician and Nutritionist

Median Salary in 2010: $53,250 ($25.60/hour)

[Browse our list of online bachelor's degrees in nutrition]

Dieticians and nutritionists work with hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and other institutions to provide nutritionally balanced meals and promote healthy eating habits. Some dieticians and nutritionists are involved in planning nutritional programs for institutions such as schools and corporations. Others work with individual clients to help them design a diet that meets their individual needs. These workers also work in hospital settings to manage the diets of patients with specific medical problems.

Dieticians and nutritionists should enjoy interacting with people and educating them about how to maximize their health through diet. They should have an aptitude for science and math. Dieticians and nutritionists are required to understand basic human physiology. They should be able to perform mathematical calculations when planning a diet.

A prospective dietician or nutritionist should earn a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition, or a related area. A background in science, math, and statistics is part of the training. Also, dieticians must have computer skills.

Most states require dieticians and nutritionists to be licensed to earn the title of dietician or nutritionist, although you can work in the field without using either title. Certification requires completion of a program sponsored by the Commission on Dietetic Registration or completion of a supervised internship. Continuing education is required to maintain licensure. Dieticians can advance to management positions. Some of them are self-employed.

The job growth rate for dieticians and nutritionists is projected to increase by 9% from 2008 to 2018. They earned a median annual wage of $53,250, or $25.60 an hour, in 2010.

7. Health Educator

Median Salary in 2010: $45,830 ($22.03/hour)

Health educators design and implement programs that educate communities and individuals about how to reduce the risk of disease through lifestyle. Their goal is to inspire the public to make positive changes that lower their risk for illness. They might do this by organizing community health screenings or educational seminars.

They may work with communities by organizing health events or directly with individuals through employment at health care facilities or colleges. Some health educators develop educational materials for the public or teach health classes in schools while others work for public health departments designing educational materials. They may also organize health care programs for businesses to keep their employees healthy.

Health educators should enjoy educating and interacting with the public. They should have good communication skills, an understanding of health and human psychology, and a positive attitude. They should also feel comfortable making presentations before large groups.

Aspiring health educators need a bachelor’s degree to enter the field. Many employers prefer applicants who have done an internship or have experience working with the public in a health-related capacity. Health educators can become certified through the National Commission of Health Education Credentialing, Inc. by passing a certification exam. Some states require this credential to work in a public health department.

Employment for health educators is expected to grow by 18% between 2008 and 2018. They earned a median annual salary of $45,830, or $22.03 an hour, in 2010. Generally, health educators who work in hospital settings have the highest wages.

8. Athletic Trainer

Median Salary in 2010: $41,600

Athletic trainers help athletes of all ages prevent sports injuries. They also help with the assessment and treatment of injuries in conjunction with a health care team that includes a physician. They are involved in educating athletes and workers in various occupations about injury prevention.

Athletic trainers are often involved in field work at athletic events. When an injury occurs, they go onto the field to help evaluate the injured player and start treatment. Some athletic trainers work with professional sports teams, while others use their expertise in a hospital or outpatient clinic.

To succeed in this profession, you should have good clinical judgment since trainers may be the first to evaluate a sports injury. You should also have good communication skills since education is an important part of the job. An interest in sports and health and an aptitude for anatomy and physiology are two helpful qualities for this job.

Athletic trainers need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program. Many athletic trainers go on to pursue an advanced degree at the master or doctoral level. Most states require athletic trainers to be certified, which involves passing an exam and participating in continuing medical education to stay abreast of new developments in the field.

Employment opportunities for these workers are expected to grow at a rapid pace. Job opportunities are predicted to increase by 37% between 2008 and 2018. Opportunities will be greatest in hospitals, schools, and sports centers. It will be more challenging to earn a position with a professional sports or college team due to the high level of competition. The median annual salary for an athletic trainer was $41,600 in 2010.

9. Recreational Therapist

Median Salary in 2010: $39,410 ($18.95/hour)

Recreational therapists use recreation therapy to treat individuals that are disabled due to illness or disability by helping them find enjoyable activities (such as crafts, games, music, or dance) that they can do despite their limitations. This helps them achieve greater independence and reduce their stress level. Recreational therapists usually work in partnership with other members of the health care team in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehab centers. Some recreational therapists also work in the community by offering their services to schools, adult day care centers, and schools.

Recreational therapists should enjoy working with people, many of whom have handicaps or other disabilities. A good candidate will be patient, have an upbeat positive attitude, and have the ability to motivate their clients.

Most recreational therapists have a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or recreational therapy. A bachelor’s degree is required for certification, and most employees prefer hiring candidates who are certified. To become certified after receiving a bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy, you must pass an exam and complete an internship in the field. There are also opportunities for management and administrative work in the field of recreational therapy.

Job opportunities for recreational therapists are projected to grow 15% between 2008 and 2018. Their services will become more important as the population ages. The median annual wage for a recreation therapist in 2010 was $39,410. Employment opportunities will grow the most rapid in nursing care facilities, although wages are highest in hospital settings.

10. Veterinary Technologist

Median Salary in 2010 (Includes Veterinary Technicians): $29,710 ($14.28/hour)

Veterinary technologists works closely with veterinarians to provide care for their four-legged patients. Under the supervision of a veterinarian, veterinary technologists assist with medical procedures and perform lab studies and other diagnostic tests on animals. Most veterinary technologists are employed by veterinary hospitals and clinics, although some work in research facilities and animal shelters.

A veterinary technologist must be comfortable working with all types of animals in a setting that can be stressful. Veterinary technologists are at risk for being injured by frightened animals, and they may have to deal with animals that have been abused or neglected. They should have good communication skills since they interact with pet owners and other members of the veterinary team.

The primary degree for this profession is a bachelor’s in veterinary technology. After graduation from a four-year program, most states require that veterinary technologists become credentialed by passing an exam that demonstrates their expertise in the field.

Job opportunities for veterinary technologists are projected to grow 37% between 2008 and 2018. This mirrors the public’s growing demand for advanced veterinary care as more people treat their pets as family members. The median annual salary for veterinary technologists and technicians in 2010 was $29,710. Most veterinary technologists work in private veterinarian offices. There are limited job opportunities for vet techs at zoos, aquariums, and wildlife facilities.

Here are a couple interesting education links from October 2011.

Interview with the chief marketing officer of the world’s largest provider of eTextbooks – CourseSmart’s Jill Ambrose talks about the company’s innovations including a social commerce tab on Facebook, giving students access to eTextbooks on the popular social networking site.

Online students vs. traditional students – Interesting infographic comparing online students and traditional students.

For-profit schools: they get IT – Traditional colleges may think they have nothing to learn from for-profits, but when it comes to advanced use of technology, look no further.

Blame game: let’s talk honestly about bad teachers – Removing the lowest performing educators would pay big dividends, but saying so invites charges of “teacher bashing.”

How Steve Jobs transformed the classroom – At Burlington High School, Steve Jobs’ legacy is living on. The school bought more than a thousand iPads for its students and teachers this year.

Traditionally speaking, college is, by its very nature, all about education. Meeting new friends and having fun is usually a by-product, but fundamentally school is where young adults go to learn. Gaining knowledge can take many shapes and forms, but often those of a geeky persuasion are happiest when managing their own time away from the college grounds. So what happens when the lines between geek-time and learning become unmistakably blurred? What happens when the geeks take over the classroom? Find out in our article on ten bizarre college courses designed for geeks.

10. Zombies in Popular Media, Columbia College Chicago

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You would think that the most important lesson one can learn about zombies would be to run away as quickly as possible or, if necessary, to shoot them in the head. However, this course at Columbia College Chicago goes a good deal further than that. It promises an “intense schedule” that “explores the history, significance, and representation of the zombie as a figure in horror and fantasy texts.” Those with an aversion to gore need not apply to this critical theory class. However, geeks with a taste for flesh, form an orderly queue. Let the shambling commence!

9. Strategy of Starcraft, UC Berkeley

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StarCraft — and its recent sequel StarCraft II — are real-time military strategy computer games developed by Blizzard Entertainment. This class, which started in 2009, is made up of lectures on battle theory and other “computational” aspects of how space battles are fought. Students’ game-playing is analyzed and “homework” is assigned. Sounds tough. Other than a love of gaming, the only requirements for the course are a copy of Starcraft: Brood War and an “open mind.” While all this may sound too good to be true, there is a catch: the course credits are not counted towards general education pre-requisites. Who cares, though, if a career in competitive gaming awaits?

8. Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Oberlin College

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No doubt many a geek will have studied the image of Sarah Michelle Gellar in her most famous role as Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The phenomenally successful TV series ran to seven seasons from 1997 until 2003 and has left a lasting imprint in the cultural consciousness. This course at Oberlin “Experimental” College in Ohio is an example of what some like-minded academics call “Buffy studies,” the show having attracted a good deal of intellectual attention. The course assumes that students will have a “basic familiarity with the program.” Wooden stake and crucifix sadly not included.

7. Lego Robotics, MIT

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You don’t have to be a geek to love Legos. But in this course at MIT it probably helps. Using Lego as a “fun tool to explore robotics” and more, the course provides students with the resources to design, build and program working robots from the little plastic bricks and a “few other parts, such as motors and sensors.” Just don’t let any younger siblings anywhere near your work in progress or you may have to ask for a deadline extension on that end-of-term project.

6. Philosophy and Star Trek, Georgetown University

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Philosophy tutors love Star Trek. In all its incarnations — from the 1960s onwards — the show has contained philosophical themes and subtexts for would-be Platos to chew over. This course at Washington, D.C.’s Georgetown University — worth three Earth credits — takes Star Trek as the starting point for a whole semester’s worth of deep thinking and debate. Metaphysical questions sparked by the sci-fi staple and covered include “Is Data a person?”, “Is time travel possible?” and “Could you go back and kill your grandmother?” Would Spock approve? Guess you’ll have to sign up to find out.

5. Biology of Jurassic Park, Hood College

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Hood College, Maryland claims that dinosaurs can help students understand many biological principles, such as patterns of evolution, ecology and behavior. All this despite the fact that they are extinct. Impressed? We were. The course is comprised of three lectures and three hours in the lab, so don’t expect it to be too taxing. Asking such questions as “Are birds really dinosaurs?” and “Were dinosaurs ‘warm-blooded’ or ‘cold-blooded?’” the classes are most assuredly aimed at clever girls and boys. And Velociraptors.

4. Sindarin (Elvish), University of Wisconsin

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Back in 2004, at the very height of Lord of the Rings mania, the University of Wisconsin offered this course in Sindarin, otherwise known as Elvish. The language that novelist JRR Tolkien invented to be spoken by his long-legged, fair-headed Elves was taught by David Salo, who worked on the Rings trilogy of films as a linguistic expert. Obviously a deep knowledge of, and respect for, Tolkien’s languages was of great benefit to Mr. Salo; others, however, may well ask what they could expect to gain from such studies…

3. Science from Superheroes to Global Warming, University of California, Irvine

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Ah, superheroes. A true geek staple. The undisputed world champions of geek culture ever since Superman lifted up a car on the cover of Action Comics #1 in 1938. For most hard-working students, superheroes and comic books are a pretty firm no-no in the classroom. Until now, that is. With this fiercely geek-friendly course, the University of California, Irvine promises students will develop a “better appreciation for science and the scientific method” while exploring questions about the powers of their favorite childhood heroes. Case studies are drawn from global warming and real-world experience, as well as movies and, natch, superheroes. Don’t get too close to the kryptonite!

2. The Science of Harry Potter, Frostburg State University

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The Harry Potter saga may be over, with J.K. Rowling having written her last book — and the movie adaptations’ young cast matured into adulthood — but that hasn’t stopped the enormous popularity of the franchise. Back in 2003, when the Potter cultural empire was still gathering steam, Frostburg State University, Maryland offered this seminar in The Science of Harry Potter. Students were expected to examine the books to “assess the possible science behind the fantasy.” Alas, there is no mention of whether any Quidditch contests took place.

1. Invented Languages: Klingon and Beyond, University of Texas at Austin

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Salt and pepper. Milk and cookies. Geeks and Star Trek. Some things are just meant to go together. The designers of this course at the University of Texas, Austin obviously thought so too, using the fantastical alien language of Klingon as a jumping-off point for exploring some fairly weighty linguistic and philosophical areas through the use of literature, films, the internet and, presumably, a lot of TV. Logical. But as every Star Trek fan knows, logic isn’t a Klingon’s strong point.

Here are a couple interesting education links from September 2011.

Best Colleges ranking by US News & World Report – The latest edition of the most recognized college rankings was recently released.

64 years fighting for innovation in higher education – Now 87, Murray Block talks about changes he pushed for in the education industry to make college more accessible. His latest fight is bringing respect and legitimacy to quality distance learning programs.

The digital promise must be a total learning experience – Teachers can leverage the internet and other technologies to provide a more customized learning environment geared for the individual student.

Storytelling in elearning – Stories are among the most effective tools for teaching. This article goes over tips for incorporating storytelling in an online learning environment.

Country, rock, and rap: new subjects for Nashville schools – Classes in country, rock, and rap will supplement the traditional curriculum of orchestra, choir, and band in Nashville’s public schools. Instruction in songwriting, production, and other skills such as DJing will also be added to music theory and other existing offerings.

There is also a program called Doctor of Business Administration in Global Business Sustainability focused on enhancing expertise in sustainable management through the study and application of advanced topics.

While some Ph.D. curriculums offer both self-directed and course-based formats, other advanced degree programs combine an online platform with faculty mentorship throughout the course of study.

Meeting the needs of both academic and business professionals who want to pursue executive careers, the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) curriculum focuses on practical business concepts and active research rather than a purely theoretical approach to research.

The DBA program will develop your ability to conduct comprehensive research, communication, critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, business ethics, and diversity.

The DBA program has been developed to provide you with the opportunity to enhance your personal and professional competencies while you balance the demands of your full-time career, family, and education.

To curb this gap, the private and public sector will be sourcing sustainable talent at a higher rate in the years ahead.

With a focus on Energy Policy and Administration, Green Development, Natural and Organic Resources, or Renewable Energy, a Master’s level program in Sustainable Business will help you improve the effectiveness of businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

Projecting a holistic view of policy and the impact of emerging markets and technologies, the Accelerated MBA in Sustainable Business – Energy Policy and Administration explores the dynamics between environmental laws and green business practices.

The accelerated MBA in Sustainable Business curriculum was designed to meet the needs of busy working professionals, with the possibility of graduating in just 18 months. Courses can be accessed online with no campus visits required.

As an alternative, an MBA with a concentration in Natural and Organic Resources will establish the links between climate change and public health. This equips students with a diverse perspective on resources for use in enterprise, including agriculture, wildlife preservation, population increases, food production, and consumption patterns.

Degree requirements normally include sustainable practices, green leadership, ethics, finance, environmental law, managing resources, effective communication, business strategy, and marketing.