Online Degrees and CLEP and DSST Exam Prep Discussion
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Help with direction - mortalone - 09-18-2014

Hello, I've been lurking for a brief period, and am hopeful i can get some guidance or suggestions on the best course of action to obtain a bachelors. I'm considering any of the big three schools, or other avenues if they are feasible. I have a number of general education credits at two different B&m schools (approximately 20 to 25 total), as well as 9 credits of music based courses (theory, etc.). Additionally, I have a diploma from the Musicians Institute (based in los angeles, CA), but these will not likely count as credit unless I pursue a music degree and then in that case, I'm assuming I'd have to put together a portfolio to submit. My goal is to complete an undergrad in as little time as possible, and I'd continue pursuing music education (I teach music privately currently), but the prospects for it appear bleak for the salary that I'm hoping to make in the next few years. I have a strong interest in IT, in either Business continuity or Cybersecurity, but have heard mentioned on more than one occasion that there's a strong degree of ageism in the computer industry and the last thing I need to do at this point is complete a degree with no hope of finding employment. This puts me in a conundrum as to the best course of action, and again time is factor, not to mention finances.

I will post my credits earned thus far as I receive my transcript information (it's been ages since I was in college), but feeling like every day spent waiting is wasted. Any thoughts, or suggestions?


Help with direction - sanantone - 09-18-2014

What is your age range, if you don't mind answering? In what fields do you have substantial work experience?


Help with direction - mortalone - 09-18-2014

sanantone Wrote:What is your age range, if you don't mind answering? In what fields do you have substantial work experience?

Outside of teaching music, i have a strong background in healthcare. Spent quite a few years working in the business office, the majority of which was in a management capacity. I became unemployed in 2009 during the recession and decided to begin teaching again out of necessity. Being unemployed during that period left a bad taste in my mouth, but again time and finances are my priorities.

Upper 40's (Though i pass for early Smile)


Help with direction - sanantone - 09-18-2014

mortalone Wrote:Outside of teaching music, i have a strong background in healthcare. Spent quite a few years working in the business office, the majority of which was in a management capacity. I became unemployed in 2009 during the recession and decided to begin teaching again out of necessity. Being unemployed during that period left a bad taste in my mouth, but again time and finances are my priorities.

Upper 40's (Though i pass for early Smile)
Have you thought about health informatics? It combines IT and healthcare administration. It's easier to avoid ageism when you have enough experience in a field to get you more senior positions.
Health Informatics Degree | Online Bachelor

There is also health information management.
Academic Requirements and Student Outcomes - Charter Oak State College


Help with direction - mortalone - 09-18-2014

sanantone Wrote:Have you thought about health informatics? It combines IT and healthcare administration. It's easier to avoid ageism when you have enough experience in a field to get you more senior positions.
Health Informatics Degree | Online Bachelor

There is also health information management.
Academic Requirements and Student Outcomes - Charter Oak State College


I hadn't thought about Health Informatics, primarily because my long-term plan involved being out of healthcare. However, that may be a more realistic pursuit. I haven't looked in depth, but I'd read that cyber-security certifications could open that door, particularly if I'm already degreed and working in the industry, even if my entry point is through healthcare. I believe the same may be true of business continuity.

I appreciate your thoughts and input.