A Special Advertising Supplement to The Fayetteville Observer
Can you afford college?
A major decision Find out which college majors are the best pick.
Learn why many students are turning to online learning.
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Weigh the costs and beneďŹ ts of a degree.
Getting plugged in
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Methodist offers small classes Methodist University is a private, coeducational, liberal arts university located in Fayetteville. The University offers the close community and personal attention of a small college – the student to faculty ratio is 15 to 1 – with aspects and opportunities that rival a much larger institution.
For working adults wondering if they should go back to school for a degree – or to upgrade their bachelor’s degree to a master’s – affordability is, today, more important than ever. “How can I afford it?” is often the first question students ask before they enroll. But perhaps a better question would be “how can I afford to live without a college degree?” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median weekly earnings go up and unemployment rates go down for each level of higher education achieved. Americans with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, $400 more a week than those with only a high school diploma, and are also less likely to be unemployed. “Yes, pursuing a degree costs money. However, prospective students should be
aware of cost-saving avenues they can pursue to keep their expenses down,” says Clare Levison, a CPA and author of the book “Frugal Isn’t Cheap.” “In addition to saving money for a college degree, professionals should look for avenues that help them reduce the overall cost of education as well.” Here are tips Levison says will help keep college costs down and make a degree program a worthwhile endeavor: • Look everywhere for support – Grants, scholarships and even employers’ tuition benefits are options everyone should investigate before enrolling in a degree program. Contact the college you’re interested in attending to ask about these options. If you are employed, ask your human resources department if the company offers an
education benefit. • Research loan options – Many students will need to take out loans, but must ask careful questions about how loan debt can affect them before enrolling in a program. Find out the repayment terms; the interest rate; the anticipated monthly payments you’ll need to make once you’ve earned your degree; if the loan interest or tuition expense can be used as a tax deduction; and ask if an automated payment system is available. You may discover that certain organizations will offer help with student loans. This option may appeal to you if you’re interested in providing services in exchange for student loan benefits, or in a work-study program. See Costs, Page 5
Situated on a beautiful 617-acre campus that includes an 18-hole golf course, Methodist University has an annual enrollment of more than 2,400 students. The university enjoys a global reach and reputation, with a record number of international students on campus this year from more than 50 countries and study abroad opportunities available at foreign campuses around the world. With innovative programs such as justice studies, applied forensic science, and digital forensics and cybersecurity, Methodist University prepares graduates for exciting careers in emerging fields. The school of health sciences prepares undergraduate and graduate students for careers as health professionals within various health care related fields including applied exercise science, athletic training, health care administration, and professional nursing studies. The master of medical science in physi-
for students and job placement for graduates.
cian assistant studies is also included within the school. The doctor of physical therapy program is currently in the planning stages and is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2015, when the doors of a new health sciences building are opened. Methodist University is one of a select group of universities in the nation to offer a golf management program accredited by the PGA, and one of only two four-year professional tennis management programs in the country accredited by the USPTA. Both programs boast 100 percent paid internships
Methodist University at Night provides educational opportunities for non-traditional students to take classes online, on campus, or on our Fort Bragg campus. The MU at Night program offers a traditional campus experience tailored to fit the needs of all students. With more than 80 undergraduate and four graduate degree programs, Methodist University has a program to help every student achieve their career goals. For more information, call 910-630-7000 or visit methodist.edu.
Fayetteville State University 2014 Points of Distinction • This fall, FSU launched the largest fundraising drive in the institution’s history. The $25 million Campaign for Fayetteville State University seeks to raise scholarship funds for deserving students, support for scholar athletes, professional development for faculty and staff, student enrichment and global enhancement, military and veteran partnerships and for the Center for Defense and Homeland Security. The campaign will end with the university’s 150th birthday celebration in the 2017. • FSU has a debate team that hosts the annual Frederick Douglass Debate Tournament featuring regional schools and HBCUs. • The Center for Defense and Homeland Security is now in full operation and has become a signature program for FSU. The center, unique among HBCUs, will foster education, research and the commercialization of scientific technologies used in mitigating and recovering from natural and man-made catastrophes. • Work has begun on renovations to the Rudolph Jones Student Center. More than 24,000 square feet are being added to the already 37,000 square-foot facility. When completed in 2015, the center will include a 100-seat movie theater, larger lounge areas, a ballroom that seats 500, and multiple office spaces for staff and students. • Fayetteville State University has been cited as the top institution in North Carolina for the affordability and quality of its online course offerings.
AffordableCollegesOnline. org (AC Online) recently analyzed online degree programs from more than 2,000 accredited colleges and universities across the nation. • The 62,000-square-foot LEED Silver Science and Technology Building is open and ready to produce the generation of STEM scholars. The building, which has now become the centerpiece of this campus, is complete with laboratories for chemistry, forensics, mathematics, physics and computer science. Connecting the building’s two wings is the “Discovery Forum,” the building’s common-use area that includes community space, seminar rooms and a coffee shop that is already receiving rave reviews from the students, faculty, staff, and community. • Renaissance Hall opened fall of 2012 and houses 336 residents in doubleoccupancy rooms. Amenities include spacious rooms with carpet, a full size bed per resident, and a large 5x4 window per room for a marvelous view of our campus. Each room has a separate bathroom to share with one roommate. Like all residence halls on campus, Renaissance has furnished air-conditioned rooms with internet access, local phone service, and a cable plug-in. Wireless is available in the lobby. • FSU has some of the best athletic facilities of any Division II HBCU institution in the country. Capel Arena, the basketball venue, seats 5,000 for games. Jeralds Stadium seats nearly 8,000 for
football and has the only artificial turf in the storied Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association. The venue also has an Olympicsize swimming pool. • Military Times has named Fayetteville State University (FSU) as the top school in North Carolina and among the best in the country for veterans. The organization comprising Army Times, Navy Times, Air Force Times and Marine Corps Times placed a new emphasis on academic rigor this year when conducting and scoring the fourth annual Best for Vets: Colleges survey, a highly respected 150-question analysis of a school’s complete offerings for veterans. • During the 2013 National Media Summit and HBCU Awards Ceremony honoring historically Black colleges and universities, the Department of Social Work at
Fayetteville State University received the 2013 HBCU Award for Best Social Work Program from the Center for HBCU Media Advocacy, Inc. • Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the world’s most prestigious accrediting body for business schools, FSU’s School of Business and Economics continues its climb in the national and international rankings as one of the best in the country and the world. Currently, the Social Science Research Network ranks FSU third in the state of North Carolina, only behind Duke and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill rank higher. Additionally, U.S. News and World Report recently identified the FSU Online MBA program as one of the Top 100 in the nation. • FSU sponsors many success-
ful student organizations and clubs. For example, a team of four FSU students was selected as finalists, one of the four nation-wide student teams, to travel to Detroit, MI to present their grant/scholarship proposal to the selection committee for the Ford HBCU Community Challenge. • Our faculty is recognized nationally. Carole Boston Weatherford, a professor of English, has been named one of the Top 25 Professors at Affordable Historically Black Colleges by Affordable Colleges Online. To be selected, the schools at which the professors teach had to be classified as “Historically Black,” be fully accredited, and also have annual tuition under $12,000. The professors were selected based on recent achievements in their fields, the classroom, and the community.
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Many graduates continue their educations once high school ends. Thousands upon thousands of students trade in their hall passes and senior sweaters for syllabi, electives and core classes in college. Recent graduates increasingly recognize the importance of a college degree, as holding a degree has become essential in today’s competitive workplace, since having any advantage can mean the difference between establishing a stable career or struggling to make ends meet. Many graduates also recognize the importance of choosing a major that translates well in the job market. Certain majors have historically been more popular than others among students. However, popular majors do not always make the best choices for jobs. The following are some of the popular majors and also majors that present the best track record for success and financial security. Certain majors are popular, but others do better in the real world. Understanding the difference can help students choose the best options when selecting a major.
Some of the more stable and wellpaying college majors are not necessarily the most popular ones among students.
Education Teaching careers continue to be some of the most prevalent and stable. The field of education is essentially recession-proof, as there will always be a demand for educators in one capacity or another. Students looking for a stable, moderately paying career can consider earning a degree in education.
Engineering
Business Administration: According to the National Center for Education Statistics, of the 1,650,000 bachelor’s degrees conferred between 2009 and 2010, the greatest numbers of degrees were given in the field of business, and those numbers remain quite steady. Business administration graduates can find work in various industries.
Psychology From psychologists to school therapists, the possibilities for work in the psychology field abound, making this a popular choice for college students. Psychologists study how the mind works and what causes human behavior, but a psychology degree can land graduates work in some surprising fields, including advertising and public relations.
Communications Holding a communications degree opens up various career paths. It is a broad degree that can lead to careers in journalism, marketing, broadcasting, or television production.
Health Degrees in nursing and medicine will always be in demand. Medical careers continue to be some of the most stable, and the need for doctors and nurses grows with every passing year. In addition to medical degrees in the traditional sense, biologists and molecular scientists can be employed to research diseases and operations of the body and even research the connection between humans and the environment.
Education With every generation of children comes a new crop of students who need to be educated. This makes education yet another popular career path.
Engineers are some of the best-paid and most highly-coveted workers. Engineering careers cover many disciplines. Mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, general engineering, and civil engineering are just some of the careers engineering majors can pursue.
Math Math and computer science majors should also be successful finding jobs. These number crunchers hold careers that span computer coding to math professors to corporate analysts.
Computer science Computer hardware and software continue to play integral roles in daily life. Career opportunities in computer science include working on everything from robotics to developing applications for tablets and mobile phones.
— Courtesy of Metro Creative
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Costs
From Page 3 • Try out a school before investing fully – Ask yourself: “Will I like the school I picked?” Western International University (West) lets students test drive its online education program by taking the first two, 3-credit required courses for just $200 each. If you determine you’re not ready for the time commitment, or you are not sure about online education, you’ve only made a minimal investment and the
credits you earn may be accepted for transfer by other colleges or universities. If everything is a perfect fit, you’ve also saved some overall tuition cost and the credits apply to your West program of choice. • Keep earning money while enrolled – Online degree programs like the ones offered by Western International University provide students with flexibility. You have the opportunity to
continue working if already employed, or start a job and complete coursework around the clock. Once a college degree is earned, you may be better able to achieve your professional goals, and will have, according to U.S. labor trends, the potential to earn more over your lifetime. To learn more about Western International University visit west.edu. — Courtesy of Brandpoint
Receive a high-quality education at FTCC Want to receive a high-quality education at an affordable price? Take a look at the value Fayetteville Technical Community College delivers in so many different ways: Academic Programs – Face-to-Face and Online. Three campus locations (Fayetteville, Spring Lake and Fort Bragg – as well as distance education provide convenient ways to study. With more than 190 programs of study (many 100 percent online) leading to associate degrees, certificates, or diplomas, students have a wide choice of programs to choose from. *Scarborough research Dec. 2013 release Our area includes the 7-county region around Fayetteville.
Continuing Education. FTCC’s continuing education offers specialinterest and career-
readiness courses, high school diploma classes, and many unique training programs. Classes are offered at convenient locations and times, are designed to meet students’ needs – whether learning a new hobby, enhancing job skills, or pursuing specialized skills for a new career. The Center for Business and Industry reaches out to the business community and provides tailored and highly-specialized training and workshops for employees and staff. Military Friendly. FTCC is proud to serve active duty military members, veterans and their family members. The staff at the Fort Bragg Center specializes in counseling, registration and other unique
assistance to honor our military and veterans by “making education work” in the military environment. Save Money and Easily Transfer Credits. Students can begin the first two years of college at FTCC, saving money and receiving a highquality education and transfer to a four-year college for the remaining two years. This is good news, but the exciting news is that FTCC transfer students excel, performing exceptionally well in the four-year college/university environment. Fayetteville Tech truly offers education for life – no matter what phase of life you are in. Call, visit, or learn more about us on the Web at faytechcc.edu.
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It’s all about the green
Future looks promising for pro-environment careers
The latest statistics from the Small Business Administration indicate that two-thirds of new businesses survive two years, while about 45 percent survive four years. Such odds inspire curiosity as to how entrepreneurs have the gumption to open new businesses. As challenging as it can be to turn an idea into a successful business, opening a new business in an industry with a track record for stability is one way to reduce the risk of a new business venture. Although there is no such thing as a guarantee in the business world, certain industries seem to garner a steady stream of business no matter strong or weak the overall economy may be. While not all of these businesses are necessarily glamorous and some may focus on less popular aspects of daily life, each is a part of industries that tend to thrive regardless of the economy.
Funeral service Death and taxes are two inevitabilities in life. As such, funeral homes will always be in demand.
Accountants Like death, taxes are one of life’s guarantees. To the layperson, some of the intricacies of tax law can be quite confus-
ing. As such, accountants will always be in demand. Pushing numbers and sorting spreadsheets may not be exciting, but accounting is a stable and often lucrative way to pay the bills.
Veterinary services Much like doctors are in demand, so are those professionals who cater to our feathered and furry companions. A career in veterinary sciences can be profitable as well.
Pharmaceutical The pharmaceuticals industry is big business. The National Pharmacists Association says that many pharmacists routinely fill more than 20 prescriptions per hour, which is indicative of just how booming the pharmaceutical industry has become. According to the National Institutes of Health, per capita drug expenditures have increased at an average annual rate of 10.8 percent in the United States and Canada since 1996.
Liquor store Liquor stores are relatively recession-proof. When times are booming, people celebrate and throw parties, complete with alcoholic beverages. When times are bad, some turn to alcohol to numb the situation. As a result, liquor stores tend to thrive whether the
economy is booming or has gone bust.
Pawnbrokers When operated efficiently, pawn shops can be very lucrative businesses, especially during tough financial times when people need extra money. Pawn shops enable individuals to take out loans (at high interest rates) by offering possessions as collateral. Should the individual not be able to pay back the loan, the pawn shop can then sell the merchandise for profit. It is important to check the regulations in your area before opening up a pawn shop. Many towns require a pawn broker license, business license and criminal background check.
Waste disposal Working with garbage may be unpleasant, but there will always be a need to remove it from homes and businesses. Waste service companies do the dirty work and will always be in demand. Many types of businesses offer greater stability during times of economic uncertainty. Investing in these types of businesses may improve the chances your next business venture will buck the trend and become successful for years to come. — Courtesy of Metro Creative
Wouldn’t you rather have a job that improves the health of the environment than one that doesn’t? If you say yes, you’re in the majority. According to a recent survey conducted by the employee recruiting service The Ladders, 72 percent of job hunters say they’d rather work for the more eco-conscious company, all other things being equal. Pair that with a 2012 report by the Economic Policy Institute indicating that growth in green jobs is outpacing the rest of the economy and you have a pretty good match between green job seekers and green employers. Lots of Green The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics defines a green job as one “that produces goods and services that benefit the environment or conserve natural resources” or “that makes production processes more environmentally friendly or use fewer natural resources.” That covers a lot of ground, from landscape designers, installers, and technicians to scientists, salespeople and managers. Of course, jobs in alternative energy, environmental sciences, and environmental advocacy are easy to classify as green, but beyond that, you’ll also find green jobs in fields such as landscape design, construction, the turf grass industry, and golf course management. Landscape Gardening The Landscape Gardening program as Sandhills
Community College is second to none. Launched in 1968, its graduates are recruited by many national companies. The current White House landscapers are both Sandhills’ graduates, from the 1971 and 1972 classes, now serving their eighth U.S. president. Others have been employed as managers or supervisors at Monticello, the N.C. Zoo, Reynolda Gardens, and as arborists and horticulturalists for resorts, elder care facilities, greenhouse operations, nurseries and cities and towns throughout the state and east coast. Many have begun their own businesses. Students participate in academic classes in the newly constructed Steed Hall and apply laboratory experiences in the five greenhouses and the 32acre Sandhills Horticultural Gardens. This hands-on training reinforces the classroom lectures on horticultural theories and techniques. While in the Gardens, students have the opportunity to use equipment that is directly related to the landscape industry. The final semester of paid Co-op field-work experience.
Golf Course Management Long gone are the days when a lawnmower operator could work his way up to become a golf course superintendent. Today’s golf courses desire their managers to have an advanced degree, as well as practical experience. Entry-level employment into the green industry as an assistant golf course superintendent, a spray technician, or an assistant golf course construction superintendent is normal with a two- year degree from SCC in Golf Course Management. With experience, it is possible to advance to the position of golf course superintendent or golf course construction superintendent. Graduates have also become employed at city recreational facilities, professional sports centers, and other areas where turf grass is grown. In the final semester of study, students complete an internship at a golf course. They can intern at one of the world-famous golf courses in the Pinehurst area and some have completed internships at Augusta National, Merion, Winged Foote, Desert Mountain, and TPC Sawgrass.
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Discover the Spirit of Pembroke
Many working adults begin using technology from the moment their alarm clocks go off. From checking emails on a tablet over morning coffee, to sending out social media posts from a smartphone before they get into the office, technology allows people to be efficient and stay connected anytime, anyplace. This same technology is now playing an important role for individuals seeking alternative learning environments to continue their educations or grow their careers. According to a national survey from University of Phoenix, 87 percent of working adults say there are benefits to online learning. Another survey reveals that 54 percent indicate they’ll go back to school in the future and 48 percent are interested in taking an online class. So it is no surprise that universities are adjusting their online classroom offerings to cater to the technology working
adults are currently using. Today’s technology makes education more personalized, more social and more accessible than ever before. This creates a more balanced and better learning experience for busy working learners. “At University of Phoenix, technology is integrated into curriculum with resources such as a mobile app, interactive tutoring and PhoenixConnect, a social network that encourages idea-sharing among students, faculty and alumni,” says University of Phoenix School of Business Dean Dr. Bill Berry. “Students can connect to the classroom and discussions from all over the world.” The University’s online classroom has also been upgraded to provide students a more customized learning environment, including visual, auditory and written learning opportunities that cater
to varying learning styles. This new classroom also incorporates elements of social media, spurs more student collaboration and reflects the contemporary online experience that working adults are used to elsewhere on the Web. Even with technology upgrades, students still need to manage their education to make certain they get the most out of it. Dr. Berry offers these tips: • Be knowledgeable about the available resources – Ask about the technology learning options available before signing up for a degree program, and research whether mentors are available in the community. Learn how best to use these resources to help dedicate the time needed for classwork once enrolled in the program. • Build a support network – Earning a colSee Online, Page 9
Have you ever discovered something unexpected in a place you thought you knew? Initials carved into a tree that you’ve walked by for years? A striking view you’ve sped by daily – but never really saw? It’s easy to believe you know everything about a place when you’ve known it so well and for so long. This year, take some time to discover a university – the third oldest in the University of North Carolina system – where you could find . . . • A nursing program with the system’s best pass rates on NCLEX-RN examinations in the last three academic years; • A center devoted to undergraduate research in the sciences, arts, humanities, business, and education; • A nationally-recognized center for entrepreneurship; • A leading researcher on Alzheimer’s and related disorders; • A new state-of-the-art Health Sciences Building, complete with robotic patients; • NCAA champion wrestler Daniel Ownbey; • A museum devoted to the history of Native Americans and one
of the only majors in American Indian Studies west of the Mississippi River; There’s a remarkable story playing out in southeastern North Carolina that, like a scenic overlook, is barely noticed by those who pass it every day. In this particular part of the state lives the largest tribe of Native Americans east of the Mississippi. Numbering more than 55,000 members, the Lumbee Indians of southeastern North Carolina just may qualify for the title Biggest Tribe You’ve Never Heard Of.
students. Our commitment to undergraduate research opportunities across the disciplines, state-of-the-art health sciences classrooms, personalized education by excellent teachers and scholars, and a growing emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics training are fostering North Carolina’s future scientists, nurses, artists and educators. After celebrating our 125th anniversary last year, we have launched a project that brings UNCP full circle: the Southeast American Indian Studies (SAIS) program, which promises to be a calling card for this entire region of the country.
So that members of their tribe could learn to be teachers in their own community, the Lumbee Indians established for themselves a college. More remarkably, they pulled off this feat 125 years ago, on the heels of the Civil War, founding their institution almost a century before most federally-funded tribal colleges and universities came into being.
When you’ve driven south on Interstate 95, you no doubt have seen the exit for The University of North Carolina at Pembroke; you have passed it maybe many times. We don’t usually get convenient markers in our lives when we’re missing something big. This is one of those times.
Since those first days as Normal School, The University of North Carolina at Pembroke has grown into a campus of more than 40 classroom buildings, laboratories and residence halls serving more than 6,000
So, I encourage you to follow the signposts. They are pointing you to a part of North Carolina – and North Carolina history – you perhaps never knew existed. It is a view worth pulling over for – a place worth knowing.
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Student volunteerism can have a positive impact ... and help pay for college Volunteerism can help young people grow into well-rounded, responsible individuals. When volunteering, kids can learn new skills, foster new friendships and contacts, and improve both their social and interpersonal skills. In addition, a 2011 study from researchers at the Stony Brook University School of Medicine found that people are generally happier and healthier when giving back to their communities. The study even recommended that health care professionals recommend volunteering to patients 12 and older, with the belief that helping others provides significant health benefits, including allowing volunteers to escape their stress and anxiety. And, there could even be a few added bonuses for volunteering! Students between the ages of six and 18 who haven’t yet graduated high school have the chance to be recognized for their volunteering efforts and earn money for higher education thanks to Kohl’s Department Stores. For more than a decade, the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program has recognized more than 19,500 students, awarding nearly $4 million in scholarships and prizes. This year the organization will award nearly $400,000 in scholarships and prizes to more than
2,300 young volunteers who have made a positive impact in their communities.
further recycling efforts in their communities.
Finding the right activity is often the most important step when fostering a love of volunteering in youngsters, and there are a number of great opportunities and causes that children can relate to.
Help the needy
Embrace eco-volunteering. Today’s kids are increasingly eco-conscious, and concepts like recycling, reusing and conserving fuel and energy are second nature to many young people. That makes eco-volunteering a natural fit for today’s ecoconscious students. Children can volunteer with organizations that remove trash from beaches and parks; plant trees to establish community green spaces; work to promote wildlife conservation; or
Volunteerism can open youngsters’ eyes to the plight of the less fortunate. Various organizations dedicated to helping the needy depend on volunteers of all ages to meet their missions. From soup kitchens to shelters to private clothing or food collection drives, opportunities abound for kids who want to help the less fortunate.
Help the sick Many organizations that cater to the sick also provide volunteering opportunities to youngsters. Many kids who volunteer with such organizations are motivated to do so by a close friend or
family member’s battle with a particular illness, but some kids even turn their own personal adversity into an opportunity to help the sick.
and e-readers for the hospital waiting rooms, where young patients now have access to hundreds of books thanks to Tyler’s efforts.
Such was the case with 18-year-old Tyler O’Briant of Tonganoxie, Mo. After spending more than three semesters of high school in and out of Children’s Mercy Hospital battling chronic bacterial and viral infections, Tyler, a 2013 Kohl’s Cares Scholarship winner, decided to host a book drive and fundraiser, which ultimately raised more than $1,150 to purchase books
Visit the elderly Kids can learn a lot from their elders, and many organizations that work with the elderly offer volunteering programs for boys and girls. Individuals in group homes or hospitals often appreciate visits from youngsters, and kids can learn valuable life lessons in return.
Tutor fellow students A child who is proficient in a given subject can lend a helping hand to fellow students who need some assistance. Working together to improve grades and school performance can improve others’ sense of self-worth and instill a greater sense of accomplishment in tutors. Volunteering can foster a sense of social responsibility in youngsters, and may even help them finance their college educations. — Courtesy of Metro Creative
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From Page 7 lege degree doesn’t just involve the student. The student’s family, employer and friends are also involved, both directly and in supportive roles. Gain their buy-in and look for ways to involve them in your education. Setting up study times with your children or leading a case study discussion at work are just two of the ways you can involve other stakeholders in your education. • Enhance time management skills – Strong time management skills
help students avoid being overwhelmed when they add school work and classes to an already busy schedule. Before starting a program, set aside specific hours during the week that are dedicated to school work. As the program starts, review deadlines and establish mini deadlines to accomplish smaller parts of each assignment to help break up the project. • Leverage the network – Once a degree is earned, networking can help you get the most out of what you have learned. Universities are setting up their own academic social networks
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leveraging LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to provide ongoing career support and connect alumni, students and faculty members. For the nearly half of working adults who are interested in taking an online course, plugging into online education is easier than ever before. Now you can receive real-time alerts when grades are posted or participate in a discussion forum with classmates around the world – all before that morning cup of coffee has finished brewing. — Courtesy of Brandpoint
East Carolina University: Tomorrow starts here Why ECU? Students who attend classes on East Carolina University’s campus experience a large university with a spirited, small-campus atmosphere. Those students have access to resources and technology that take learning to a global level. They receive one-on-one instruction from worldrenowned instructors at a nationally recognized and accredited institution. They earn real degrees with real-world value.
*Scarborough research Dec. 2013 release Our area includes the 7-county region around Fayetteville.
As North Carolina’s leader in distance education, ECU serves more than 6,000 distanceeducation students in all 100 counties. Those students are working toward degrees they put off for years because of family and work obligations. They are changing professions and making their dreams come true in fields they once thought inaccessible. They are opening doors of educational opportunity even as they serve our country
overseas. These students are earning degrees that are just as valuable as those completed on campus. Why distance education? Through distance education, you can access course work 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the Internet. If you have full-time employment, family obligations and commuting to campus is not an option, online learning can help you find time for school. ECU offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs in health, education, technology, business, and other areas and provides you the resources and tools you need to complete your program online. Through ECU’s distance-education opportunities, you can complete course work at your own pace without sacrificing family and work obligations, military duties, or other responsibilities. You will have access to professors,
classmates and resources, all from your own home. East Carolina’s distanceeducation program gives you a reason complete the degree and pursue the career you’ve always wanted. During your distanceeducation experience you will consult your course Website for a course outline and schedule of assignments. You will communicate in textbased discussion forums where students can discuss course topics with each other and instructors. Assignments and homework are completed electronically, and you may have real-time “chat” sessions and tests online as well.
Your education will be just as valuable and fulfilling as if you were learning in the classroom. For a course listing and admission and registration information, please visit options.ecu.edu.
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Campbell blends intimate campus, strong academics Campbell University is a private, Christian, liberal arts college founded in the Baptist tradition. For nearly 126 years Campbell has been known for its strong academic programs and caring professors. With 3,000 undergraduates and nearly 1,500 graduate students on our main campus, it’s easy to get to know people at home. Our small class sizes enable students to contribute and stand out – not get lost in the crowd. That’s the Orange Advantage. Campbell students hail from all 50 states and 40 countries, creating an interesting and diverse community. Located in rural Buies Creek, Campbell University is a small campus with a big campus feel. With more than 100 majors, tracks and concentrations, Campbell offers opportunities and resources normally found at much larger institutions. In recent years, Campbell has expanded its facilities to meet the demands of its growing student population – with the addition of another women’s residence hall, updating the science laboratories and equipment, a beautifullydecorated and expanded library, renovated men’s residence halls, additional lighting and landscaping, and a new track facility. Students can also worship in our spectacular campus chapel. For sports and concert
soccer, tennis, golf, track and field, swimming, volleyball, and cheerleading at any of Campbell’s athletic venues. Between athletic events, the student-run Campus Activities Board, the Student Activities Office, Campus Ministries, and departmental events, there is no shortage of things to do in the Creek. We also have more than 35 clubs and organizations to keep students busy and involved, regardless of their interests.
fans Campbell boasts an impressive 3,000-seat arena, the John W. Pope Jr. Convocation Center, which was completed in the spring of 2010. Not only has our campus grown, but our academic programs have expanded as well. Campbell has recently added a physician assistant program, as well as several undergraduate majors including health care management, health communication, communication studies, marketing, homeland security, Christian ministry and special education. Campbell is recognized as a Teaching Fellows institution.
In 2010, Campbell announced a feasibility study to consider the establishment of a School of Osteopathic Medicine. The proposed school would be the state’s second-largest medical school based on enrollment. Construction of the facility has already begun, with an anticipated start date of Aug. 2013. Campbell is comprised of six schools – including the College of Arts and Sciences, the LundyFetterman School of Business, the School of Education, the Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law, the College of Pharmacy and Health
Sciences and Divinity School. Campbell also maintains campuses in RTP, Fort Bragg/Pope AFB and Camp Lejeune. Recently, our law school relocated to downtown Raleigh. Many of Campbell’s programs are nationally recognized, including the law, pharmacy, business, education, and divinity schools, as well as our ROTC program. Campbell also holds the distinction of having one of 20 PGA Golf Management programs in the country and of having the only undergraduate trust and wealth management program nationwide.
On any given day students can participate in a myriad of activities. For those who are sportsoriented, CU offers a wide variety of club and intramural sports for both men and women. The Campus Recreation Department is one of the most active offices at CU, with more than 70 percent of students on campus participating. Free fitness classes and our workout facility are also available to all students. Since Campbell is a member of the NCAA Division I Big South Conference, spectators can enjoy football, baseball, basketball, cross-country,
Additional off-campus activities include service projects, mission opportunities, visits to local cities such as Raleigh and Wilmington, and group trips to Campbell’s away games. Affordable fall and spring break options have been offered as well. For students who wish to travel a bit further, Campbell offers hundreds of study abroad programs in more than 50 countries. The option to study abroad presents a unique opportunity for students to become immersed in a foreign culture and broaden their personal and academic experiences. Students can actually tailor a program that is specific to their goals. Domestic and international internships are also available for interested students. To schedule a visit or learn more about Campbell, visit campbell.edu.