Blog

6 Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Online Degree Program

Online education has exploded in popularity over the past decade. Whether you’re seeking to advance your career or looking to change fields entirely, online degrees can open doors to new opportunities. However, with so many options available, it’s crucial to make an informed decision when selecting the right program.

Consider these six expert tips for choosing the best online degree program for you.

1. Program Offerings and Curriculum

The heart of your online degree is the program’s curriculum. Before committing to a school, take time to research the courses and structure of the program. Does the curriculum align with your career goals and interests? How are the programs designed? Is the curriculum relevant in today’s job market?

At Syracuse University, the Center for Online and Digital Learning is redefining online education. Online courses taken at the College of Professional Studies are backed by research, design theories, and prescriptive models. Faculty and course development teams collaborate to create an immersive, fully online learning experience, ensuring high quality.

Center for Online and Digital Learning studio taping of course
Center for Online and Digital Learning studio taping of course

2. Faculty and Instructor Quality

The quality of instructors can make a significant difference in your learning experience. Look for programs where the faculty are not only experts in their field but also experienced in teaching online courses. Online learning requires a different set of skills compared to in-person teaching, so it’s important to choose instructors who are familiar with creating engaging and effective online learning experiences. The College of Professional Studies faculty practice in their industry, providing students with the latest field knowledge and research.

Research faculty qualifications by looking at their academic backgrounds and professional experience. Additionally, check if instructors are available for virtual office hours, providing students with the opportunity to ask questions, seek guidance, or receive additional support.

3. Accreditation: Why It Matters

Before selecting a program, it’s best to ensure the program you’re considering is accredited. Accreditation is the process through which a school or program is evaluated by an external body to ensure it meets certain standards of quality. Accreditation is important because it can impact the value of your degree.

For example, the B.P.S. in Business Management , the No. 1 in Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs of private universities, is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Cybersecurity Administration B.P.S. program is validated by National Security Agency.

When researching programs, always verify the institution’s accreditation status by checking the official accrediting body’s website.

4. Technology and Online Learning Platform

The technology used to deliver your online education can significantly affect your overall experience. A user-friendly learning management system (LMS) is essential for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and communicating with instructors and peers. Some popular LMS platforms include Blackboard, Canvas, and Moodle.

Before committing to a program, review the LMS to ensure it’s intuitive and meets your needs. Look for features such as video lectures, interactive tools, and discussion boards that promote engagement. Additionally, consider what technology is required to participate and whether the institution provides technical support to help you navigate challenges

5. Flexibility and Schedule

The appeal of online education is its flexibility, but it’s important to understand the delivery formats that each program offers. Some programs are asynchronous, meaning you can complete assignments and watch lectures on your own schedule. Others are synchronous, requiring you to attend live classes at scheduled times.

Consider how much time you can realistically dedicate to your studies. Are you planning to study part-time while working, or are you able to commit to full-time coursework?

The College of Professional Studies offers a blend of asynchronous and synchronous learning. Complete most coursework at your own pace, then join weekly live classes to connect and engage with classmates.

6. Student Support and Resources

Online students need support just as much as on-campus students. Look for programs that offer a robust support system, including academic advising, career services, and access to an alumni network. Many online programs also provide virtual student communities or peer networks, which can be an excellent way to connect with fellow learners, share resources, and stay motivated.

Another crucial consideration is technical support. Ensure that the institution offers help with navigating the online learning platform and resolving any technology issues you might encounter during your studies.

Choosing the right online degree program is a big decision, and there’s a lot to consider before you make your choice. From accreditation to faculty quality and flexibility, every factor plays a role in shaping your education and future career prospects. Take the time to thoroughly research your options, assess your personal priorities, and choose a program that aligns with your goals.

Start by researching programs that fit your interests, reaching out to admissions teams for more details, and reviewing student reviews and testimonials. By doing your homework and ensuring the program meets your needs, you’ll set yourself up for success in the ever-expanding world of online education.

How to Maintain Consumer Trust After a Data Breach

Steve Wallace PortraitIn today’s digital landscape, data breaches are an unfortunate reality that organizations must confront. With cyber threats evolving and becoming more sophisticated, the importance of robust data protection strategies has never been greater. A data breach can pose significant risks to sensitive information, but they also threaten the trust that consumers place in brands. How do organizations navigate this complex terrain?

This Q&A with Syracuse University’s cybersecurity expert, Stephen Wallace, explores the multifaceted approaches organizations can use to prepare for potential data breaches and maintaining consumer trust. Uncover the strategies that help businesses safeguard their data and uphold their reputation in an increasingly connected world.

Interested in a career in cybersecurity? Check out the College of Professional Studies Bachelor of Professional Studies and Credit Certificate in cybersecurity administration!

Preparing for a Data Breach

What processes can organizations use to identify and assess potential vulnerabilities in their data security?

Organizations should consider a multifaceted approach to identify and assess potential vulnerabilities in their information security environment. One of the primary methods an organization uses to assess their risk is a security audit.

A security audit is a systematic examination of an organization’s information systems. This includes network infrastructure, software applications, and data storage solutions. By conducting an audit, organizations can pinpoint gaps and weaknesses in their security processes and procedures.

A vulnerability assessment is a crucial component of an audit. Organizations can use automated or manual techniques to scan for flaws vulnerable to an attack.

Additionally, penetration testing, or ethical hacking, can simulate cyberattacks to help organizations evaluate the effectiveness of their existing security measures. Finally, organizations should consider implementing a governance framework to help them identify and mitigate risks.

What types of training should employees receive to recognize and respond to potential data breaches?

In today’s cybersecurity landscape, employee training is critical to an organizations ability to recognize, respond to, and prevent data breaches.

Organizations can start educating their workforce on basic cyber hygiene practices. For example, foundational techniques can help organizations mitigate common vulnerabilities that cyber attackers will often attempt to exploit.

Cybersecurity has become a mission critical function inside all companies both large and small. Syracuse University has been designated, by the National Security Agency, as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) through academic year 2028.

The College of Professional Studies offers a B.P.S. and Credit Certificate in cybersecurity administration, which will teach students about the cybersecurity tools, techniques and best practices.

Globe representing cybersecurity

Responding to a Data Breach

What measures should be in place for data recovery after a breach occurs?

Organizations should consider developing an incidence response plan and be ready to deploy it if necessary. This plan assigns roles and responsibilities, establishes communication plans, and tailors specific actions for different breach scenarios.

Regular data backups are also critical in this scenario. It is a good idea to regularly test these backups, ensuring that in a crisis, data can be restored swiftly and accurately.

How can organizations analyze and learn from past breaches to improve future preparedness?

If an organization experiences a data breach, resolving the immediate crisis is the top priority, but they should not stop there. Once things have stabilized, the leadership team should meet with cybersecurity experts and conduct a comprehensive post-incident review. It can be helpful to examine systems logs and system behaviors, to understand the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used in the attack.

Moreover, lessons learned from this analysis can be a source of useful information on an organization’s vulnerabilities. These lessons should lead to updated policies, enhanced training, and fortified defenses.

cybersecurity graphic for data breach blog post

Maintaining Consumer Trust After a Data Breach

How important is transparency in maintaining consumer trust during and after a data breach?

If a breach were to occur, the leadership team needs to understand that their initial steps will be crucial to maintaining consumer trust. Organizations should prioritize transparency, by immediately informing their customers about the breach using clear, honest communication. Customers feel reassured when the company engages in open dialogue, showing its commitment to addressing the issue head-on.

As the situation unfolds, the company should continue to provide regular updates, sharing their progress in securing the system and preventing future breaches. This approach can not only help to manage the immediate fallout, but it can also help build a foundation of trust.

Customers appreciate a company’s candor. The more a company communicates, the more likely it is that customers will remain loyal. Most customers understanding that breaches can happen to any organization and will value a company’s integrity if the company responds well. 

How can a customer’s perceptions of the company change after a data breach?

As outlined above, in the aftermath of a breach, customers closely watch how the company handles the situation. If the company is transparent, communicative, and takes swift action to address the breach and enhance security, the customer’s initial anger may transform into a cautious appreciation for the company’s integrity and responsibility.

However, if the company is evasive, slow to respond, or downplays the breach’s severity, the customer’s perception can sour quickly, leading to a loss of trust and a potential shift to a competitor.

Just remember, a breach can quickly become an organizations defining moment.

Which Online Minor Should You Enroll In?

young woman studying and working on her laptop

Are you unsure about which College of Professional Studies online minor to enroll in? Take this fun quiz to find out whether you should explore cannabis studies, project management, or creative leadership!

1 / 5

What excites you most about your future career?

2 / 5

How do you prefer to solve problems?

3 / 5

What type of environment do you thrive in?

4 / 5

Which of the following statements resonates with you?

5 / 5

What’s your ultimate goal in your career?

By WordPress Quiz plugin

5 Reasons to Pursue an Online Minor

In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of education is more flexible than ever. At the College of Professional Studies at Syracuse University, earning a online minor offers the opportunity to pursue remote study options while continuing to gain skills that are complementary to your degree.

According to Best Colleges’ 2024 Online Education Trends Report, 81% of students say that online learning “is better than or equal to on-campus learning.” The College of Professional Studies’ minors in project management, creative leadership, and cannabis studies offer opportunities for flexible online learning, expanding your career network, and gaining new perspectives. 

If you are considering enhancing your degree, an online minor can be an excellent option. Here are five reasons to expand your skill set and pursue a minor online:   

Flexibility and Convenience

Firstly, one of the biggest advantages of an online minor is flexibility. You can study at your own pace, fitting coursework around your schedule. Whether you are juggling a part-time job, family responsibilities, or extracurricular activities, online learning allows you to tailor your education to your lifestyle.

The College of Professional Studies offers 8-week courses that are 100% online. Achieve academic growth with the flexibility and convenience of the College of Professional Studies’ 18-credit online minors.   

young woman studying and working on her laptop - online minor blog

Complementary Skill Sets

Secondly, a minor can complement your major by providing additional skills and knowledge, making you more versatile and attractive to potential employers. Stacking a minor with your major can enhance your expertise and marketability.

For example, project management principles and practices are essential across all industries. The online minor for project management is interdisciplinary and designed to help you explore the foundations of organization, leadership, and communication techniques of project management.

Enhanced Career Opportunities

Thirdly, a stacked academic profile can open doors to various career paths. Having a minor on your resume shows employers that you are dedicated to learning and personal growth. It demonstrates your ability to manage multiple commitments and highlights your diverse knowledge base. In a competitive job market, an online minor can set you apart from other candidates.

Whether it’s a course on cannabis law, policy, and social justice or strategic leadership in professional studies, online minors at the College of Professional Studies offer a competitive edge to your resume and enhance your career opportunities.

Access to Diverse Courses

Additionally, the College of Professional Studies offers a wide range of courses for online minors that complement your major. This allows you to explore areas of interest that may not be available in your major’s degree plan. Online minors open up the opportunity to learn and collaborate with students outside of your major’s cohort and experience academic growth.

With an online minor, you have the freedom to choose additional courses that interest you. As a result, this tailored approach helps you focus on subjects that align with your career goals and passions. You can explore new areas without being limited by your major, making your education more enriching.

Networking Opportunities

Pursuing an online minor can connect you with students and faculty from diverse backgrounds. This can expand your professional network, offering valuable connections in your field of interest. Engaging with peers online can lead to collaborations and new perspectives that enrich your educational experience.

Expand your Syracuse University network and connect with other online learners from all over the world through a blend of asynchronous and synchronous courses.

Whether you are looking to enhance your resume, explore new interests, or gain flexible learning opportunities, pursuing an online minor can be a strategic move. It not only broadens your academic horizons but also prepares you for the dynamic demands of today’s job market. So why wait? Consider enrolling in an online minor and take your education to the next level!

Online Minors
How to Declare an Online Minor

Not sure which online minor is the best fit for you? Take our quiz to find out!

Everything You Need to Know About Cannabis Studies

Are you looking to learn more about the cannabis industry, but aren’t sure where to start?

If so, our cannabis studies certificates, microcredentials or minor may be the right choice for you.

The College of Professional Studies cannabis studies programs have the option to be fully online and are aimed at educating students who want to learn more about cannabis cultivation, business practices, and policy. 

Cannabis expert and Syracuse University professor Dr. Junella Chin, who teaches CAN 320: Cannabis Science and Health, says that cannabis education is crucial in today’s landscape. 

“It helps mitigate stigma, promotes regulatory compliance, advances research, and is crucial from a harm reduction perspective,” says Chin. “Educating consumers fosters responsible use, enabling individuals to make informed decisions, understand potential risks, and seek professional guidance when needed.”

In 2022, there were over 417,000 full-time employees in the cannabis industry in the United States, according to Vangst Jobs Report 2023.

So which cannabis studies program is the right fit for you?

Cannabis Studies Minor

The 18-credit cannabis studies online minor provides a foundation of knowledge across the cannabis industry including governing laws, plant science and extracts, medicinal properties, plant cultivation and harvesting, as well as business and employment opportunities. 

Students enrolled in this minor learn a wide variety of skills, including identifying the difference between marijuana and hemp products, defining the legal and regulatory systems governing the industry, and learning the science behind the use of cannabis-derived products.

So what kind of courses does this minor entail? Students enrolled can take a wide range of cannabis-centered courses, ranging from classes on startups (CAN 310 – Cannabis Startups) to social justice (CAN 315 – Cannabis Law, Policy and Social Justice).

This minor is open to all Syracuse University undergraduates in good standing with the approval of their home college and must enter the program no later than the first semester of junior year.

Cannabis Studies Credit Certificate 

Similar to the minor, the 15-credit cannabis studies online credit certificate provides a comprehensive knowledge base across the cannabis industry. 

Students enrolled in the credit certificate can learn about cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution, as well as policy and business practices. 

Students enrolled can choose five of the six courses below:

  • CAN 301 – Cannabis Business Operations  
  • CAN 310 – Cannabis Startups  
  • CAN 315 – Cannabis Law, Policy and Social Justice  
  • CAN 320 – Cannabis Science and Health  
  • CAN 325 – Cannabis Cultivation  
  • CAN 330 – Cannabis Manufacturing, Processing & Distribution

Prior higher education experience is required for this certificate.

Cannabis Studies Microcredentials

The College of Professional Studies offers five cannabis education microcredentials: the Business of Cannabis, Cannabis Agriculture and Horticulture, Cannabis Healthcare, Medicine, and Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management, and Cannabis Product Development & Design Certificate.

The Business of Cannabis

Designed to empower aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, this program provides the essential knowledge and strategies to thrive in the dynamic world of the cannabis business.

From navigating legal and regulatory frameworks to understanding industry trends and effective marketing strategies, our experienced instructors equip students with the insights needed to make informed business decisions in this ever-changing industry. 

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a prestigious Business of Cannabis certificate of completion and a digital badge marking the verification of the skills learned in the program. This microcredential will enhance your credibility and provide a competitive edge as you pursue your entrepreneurial endeavors or advance your career within established cannabis companies.

Cannabis Agriculture and Horticulture 

Throughout this program, you’ll delve into the fundamental principles of cannabis agriculture, from seed selection and germination techniques to proper soil composition and nutrient management. 

Whether you dream of starting your own cannabis farm or joining a reputable cultivation operation, our online course provides you with a solid foundation to thrive in the world of cannabis agriculture and horticulture.

Cannabis Healthcare and Medicine

In this 100 percent online program, you’ll learn the intricacies of cannabis medicine, empowering you to feel confident in offering precise product recommendations and assisting individuals in treating various ailments and conditions with cannabis. Through our intentional curriculum, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of the therapeutic potential of different cannabis strains, delivery methods, and dosages.

Upon completion of the cannabis studies programs, participants will gain access to the GF Institute Employer Network, a platform of cannabis companies eager to hire graduates with this type of qualification.

Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management 

In today’s cannabis industry, legal compliance is one of the biggest challenges for cannabis businesses of all sizes, soaring the demand for skilled cannabis compliance professionals. Our Cannabis Compliance and Risk Management program will give you the expertise to navigate this complex landscape, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this high-demand field. 

Upon completion, you’ll be fully prepared to pursue the Certified Commercial Cannabis Professional (CCCP) designation through the esteemed Association of Certified Commercial Cannabis Experts (ACCCE). 

As a bonus, when you enroll in this program, you’ll receive a one-year ACCCE membership. This grants you exclusive access to additional resources and training materials designed to deepen your understanding of the complexities and risks inherent in the commercial cannabis industry.

Cannabis Product Development & Design 

The Cannabis Product Development & Design program has been crafted to guide you through the intricacies of cannabis product development. Begin with the foundational principles of cannabis science and discover industry terminology, decarboxylation, and various extraction techniques. Enhance your learning experience with interactive exercises, discussion forums, and hands-on projects.

“Collaborate with peers, explore career paths, and remain adaptable to the evolving nature of the cannabis industry. This dynamic mix will set you on a path for success. Remember that the cannabis industry is still evolving, so staying adaptable and open to new opportunities will serve you well,” Dr. Chin says.

Are you ready to begin your education in cannabis studies? 

Request more information about cannabis studies today!

By Isabel Bekele and Hope Alvarez