Group Description: Manufacturing has always been the backbone of the modern economy, which means that individuals who work in the field of operations management for manufacturing companies have a unique set of needs that this group is designed specifically to meet. Whether an individual’s looking to simply network with other like-minded individuals or is interested in discussing new ideas and innovative techniques, this is the group for them.

Current Discussions: “How do you keep your employee involvement teams energized?” “You are what you measure.” “6 steps to empowering workers to create change within your organization.” “Do you tend to wait until there’s a crisis to act?” “What is the biggest challenge you face in driving a continuous improvement culture in your operations?”

Members: 12,900

Group Manager:  Henry Costa

Group Stats: Very Active—133 discussions this month

Demographics of Members:

LOCATION—3% Greater Chicago Area

FUNCTION—44% Operations

INDUSTRY—9% Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing

SENIORITY—37% Manager

2.) Group Name: Operations Management in Practice

Group Description: Putting new research findings to use in a practical way is one of the challenges that operations management professionals face on a daily basis. This is why so many qualified individuals who work in this field find this group to be especially valuable to them since they are able to discuss a wide variety of topics and gain new insight into how they can best put the newest practices and techniques to use in their company. The topics that are discussed in this group include everything from management of the supply chain to services management, quality management, and even project management, which means that there is always something new to discuss and learn.

Current Discussions: “What are the three most significant Ops Mgt challenges to you today?” “New operating models.” “What are the best metrics used in manufacturing?”

Members: 7,595

Group Manager: Dr. Elliot Bendoly

Group Stats: Active—5 discussions this month

Demographics of Members:

LOCATION—5% Greater Atlanta Area

FUNCTION—28% Operations

INDUSTRY—10% Higher Education

SENIORITY—34% Manager

3.) Group Name: Operations/Distribution Managers

Group Description: While networking is a crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when it comes to the different LinkedIn groups that are available to operations management professionals, there are often specific needs that an individual is looking to meet when they join a group. Professionals who are looking to share business leads, discuss relevant articles and news stories, gain more expertise in the industry that they are employed in, or simply explore some of the many job openings that are available have found this particular group to be of great value to them.

Current Discussions: “Bridgestone saves $190,000 per year with lighting upgrade at factory.” “Manual vs. automatic DC.” “How would measure the influences of personality on team and company culture?”

Members: 8,666

Group Manager: James Crawford

Group Stats: Very Active—91 discussions this month

Demographics of Members:

LOCATION—5% Greater New York City Area

FUNCTION—57% Operations

INDUSTRY—26% Logistics and Supply Chain

SENIORITY—44% Manager

4.) Group Name: Operations Managers “Alive”

Group Description: Working as an operations manager is at times of rewarding and frustrating. The frustration often comes from having to deal with issues that are completely new. Of course, solving these types of problems is part of what makes this such a rewarding field to be employed in. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to discuss issues or ask questions of individuals who had even more experience and expertise in order to come to the best and most practical solution possible. That is exactly what this group is designed to do. Any individual who works in the operations management team will be able to discuss their concerns and gain insight into how other supervisors, directors, or managers would handle a particular issue.

Current Discussions: “If you were asked to sum up your role as an operations manager in one word, what would that word be?” “What should the key work be that an operation manager concentrates on mainly?” “Managing risk through effective project management.” “The difference between price and value.” “Presentation nerves and the solutions to overcome them.”

Members: 6,122

Group Manager: Dan Lessard

Group Stats: Very Active—66 discussions this month

Demographics of Members:

LOCATION—3% Greater New York City Area

FUNCTION—70% Operations

INDUSTRY—5% Logistics and Supply Chain

SENIORITY—69% Manager

5.) Group Name: Facilities Management Professionals International

Group Description: Because operations management can include a wide variety of actual job duties, those individuals who are actually tasked with managing the physical buildings and facilities for a business often find themselves with a very unique set of concerns. This group has been designed specifically with these professionals in mind and allows them to discuss topics that deal with the actual management of buildings so that a business can operate as efficiently as possible while also providing the occupants with a safe environment in which to work or even shop.

With a very specialized purpose in place, this is the perfect group for individuals who find themselves responsible for the day-to-day management of everything from a single building to an entire group of facilities.

Current Discussions: “FMs using advanced software to achieve green goals.” “What are your thoughts about doing business with LinkedIn members or those you are connected with?” “Are you and your team feeling productive in your workspace?”

Members: 31,957

Group Manager: Chris Dawson

Group Stats: Very Active—262 discussions this month

Demographics of Members:

LOCATION—5% Greater New York City area

FUNCTION—27% Operations

INDUSTRY—34% Facilities Services

SENIORITY—31% Manager

SEE ALSO: 12+ MBA Online in Sports Management Degrees

Differences

These are both types of assistance given to students that do not need to be paid back. Once the award is announced, the money is theirs to go towards the costs of their college education. Scholarships are merit based awards. These can be based on abilities that cover many areas:

•  Athletic potential

•  Athletic participation in collegiate sport

•  Academic potential

•  Academic performance

•  ROTC participation

•  LGBT affiliation

•  Band/Orchestra participation

•  Certain ethnic membership

Grants are based on need. After filling out necessary qualifying paperwork, determinations are made as to which applicants are considered in “need” of financial assistance. These grants are awarded based on the determined “need” of each individual.

Finding out more

In order to qualify for most forms of financial aid, students are required to fill out a FAFSA application, which is the way that each student’s financial need is determined. In filling out these forms, the ability to have grant money available can be discovered.

For scholarships, the admissions office at the college or university a person is interested in attending is often the best place to look. They have scholarships that address particular offerings at their school, and these officers would be the most familiar with the kinds of aid they have available to future students.

Beyond the school’s admissions officers, it is often the student’s job to find additional sources of scholarships. With the internet and web access being more common all the time, getting online and searching for potential sources of scholarship money is a great way to spend some time.

Online Scholarship Searches

There are many popular searches that can be used in order to locate scholarships that relate to a particular course of study for a person. The following list is some of the most popular searches for scholarship and grant information, with specific informations related to the pursuing of the MBA degree.

• How to MBA is a very thorough website offering scholarship data divided up among many different groupings. These are grouped by gender, ethnicity, field of study, and racial factors. For people interested in finding all of the money that they may have chances of receiving to help defray the costs of their additional education.
• Federal Student Aid is also a helpful website operated by the Department of Education, and it provides all information about many different types of scholarships and details how to go about applying for particular ones. It also provides a link to the website for the FAFSA student aid form mentioned earlier.
• Nerd Wallet provides a lot of scholarship information for many scholarships that detail both geographic awards as well as merit and course of study scholarships. Some of these are the kind that can go years without ever being claimed because there are not enough eligible applicants to redeem the awards.

Summary

Scholarships and grants are a great place to look for additional money to help reduce the burden of the cost of going after an advanced degree. By understanding scholarships and grants, as well as knowing what to do to qualify for each type, future students can do a lot to discover assistance in meeting the high cost of education.

Sources:

• http://howtomba.com/finance-your-mba/sources-of-mba-funding/mba-scholarships
• http://studentaid.ed.gov
• http://www.nerdwallet.com/nerdscholar/scholarships/

There are many different career paths that a person interested in a sports management MBA may be pursuing. These varying careers include:

• •  Sports Facility Management
• •  Front Office Team Management
• •  Sports Agents
• •  Sports Product Marketing
• •  Revenue Generation Experts
• •  Training Facility Management

As the online education field grows, so does the number of programs being offered for a given specialty. These schools can create a curriculum to satisfy smaller niches because of the global ability to attract students to that teaching.

12+ Cool Online Sports Management MBA Degrees:

The following schools are offering MBA degrees via an online option, and after the name of the degree and the school it is offered at, contains important information about the degree program in order to provide a basic idea of the differences between the various schools offering MBA degrees with concentrations in sports management.

1. Master of Business Administration in Sport Management - Southern New Hampshire University – This no GMAT degree program can be completed completely online, and can be finished in as little as 18 months. The program has many successful graduates working in established sports organizations, and many of those alumni are part of this degree curriculum. The class interactions are guided through online discussions, group projects and case studies.
2. Master of Business Administration in Sports & Entertainment Management - University of Dallas – This degree is designed for those interested in executive positions in the sports and entertainment industries. It involves the basic fundamentals of a top-notch MBA program, with the additional knowledge of how those skills can be best utilized in the evolving sports industry. The curriculum also includes joint relationships with area corporations so the students can work as consultants on real-world business dilemmas and resolve the best solutions. The program involves 45 credit hours and does not require the GMAT test score to apply. The length of the program depends on the pace that each students works at to complete the required courses.
3. Master of Business Administration in Sports Management - Concordia University of Chicago – Classroom-like communications are achieved through cohort groups and the online technology of video conferencing. The online flexibility allows students to complete assigned coursework as their schedule allows. There are 14 classes that make up 39 credit hours to complete the degree. This can all be done in less than two years, one class at a time. This school does not require a GMAT test score for admission.
4. Master of Business Administration in Sports Management - Tiffin University – There is no requirement for a GMAT test score in this school in order to apply. This well known program has an impressive list of alumni working in many sports teams and sports-related companies and organizations. Their connections to the school can always provid a valuable added benefit when the degree is completed and the job search begins. These connections also lead to a very thorough combination of sporting professionals who teach their courses as well.
5. Master of Business Administration in Sport Management - Florida Atlantic University – This program does require all applicants to have taken the GMAT test. This focused program aims towards those interested in the sports and entertainment industries, and becoming managers and executives in those fields. It is not oriented for those interested in physical education or training. It is a requirement as well that students may not be employed in any job that is not part of the sport industry while in the program, but does require employment/internships throughout the completion of the degree requirements.
6. Master of Business Administration in Sports and Entertainment Management - University of Colorado at Denver – In order to get ahead in the sporting industry, getting connections into organizations is often one of the most important parts. This school offers internships for their students, and works to keep many available for them to benefit from. Courses can be directed towards a student’s particular interests, and can be towards the marketing, legal and negotiating, or financial aspects of the management of sporting organizations. Their London Calling program offers students a lesson in global sports and the factors involved in sports activities crossing international boundaries. The program involves 48 total semester hours.
7. Master of Business Administration in Sports Marketing and Management - University of North Carolina at Charlotte – This MBA degree program consists of 37 credit hours, and they do allow students to transfer up to six hours of previously completed coursework. The required courses of this specialization include sports economics, management of Motorsport, management of professional team sports, and marketing of sports. There are additional choices depending on each student’s particular area of interest. There is an option to participate in Directed Individual Study Internship, whereby successful completion earns the students credits towards their degree requirements. This online MBA can be completed in as little as 17 months on a full-time schedule, or in two years on a part-time schedule. They do require a GMAT test score as part of the application process.
8. Master of Business Administration in Sports Management - University of the Southwest – This degree program covers many of the areas involved in possible sports management careers, such as marketing, economy, finance, as well as probabilities, statistics, physical education and sports administration. The online program has options which can have the degree completed as quickly as one year.
9. Master of Business Administration in Sport Revenue Generation - Nova Southeastern University – This unique online program is targeted at an area of the business that all sports organizations are looking for, which is the specific skills needed to increase the revenue base within the business. The ability to master revenue enhancement gives these graduates a very sought after skill in the marketplace. The GMAT test score depends on the GPA that the applicant received while completing their undergraduate degree. For those with GPAs over 2.49, the GMAT is not required.
10. Master of Business Administration in Sports Business - University of Oregon – The admission to this degree program requires a minimum GMAT score above the 60th percentile and professional, relevant work experience of at least two years. This program’s close  relationship to the Warsaw Sports Marketing Center provides an invaluable benefit to students looking for real world connections and case studies throughout their studies. Coursework topics cover marketing and sports properties, marketing research, sports sponsorship alliances, legal aspects of sports, sports products, and economic aspects of sports. These courses are in addition to the 10 core classes required of all MBA students at the University of Oregon.
11. Global Master of Business Administration in Hospitality, Sport and Leisure Management - London School of Business & Finance – The GMAT is not a requirement of all applicants, but may be required for some based on a lack of previous work experience or undergraduate GPA results. The test score is considered an advantage by the admissions department. Based on the pace at which a student completes the required courses, the online degree can be completed in as little as 12 months or as long as 60 months. All teaching is done with the desire to relate general business practices to the unique and thriving hospitality, sport, and leisure industries on a global level.
12. Master of Business Administration in Sports Management - Anna Maria College – Focusing mainly on high school, collegiate, and professional sports, this program is geared to prospective students whose career aspirations lie within these settings. The degree can be earned after completing the 36 credit hours required for graduation. Available courses under this specialization cover all aspects of the sporting industry, including market research, sports marketing, international factors, and fiscal management of sporting endeavors. The GMAT test score is not required for application to this MBA degree program.

If you live in the state of Florida, you should definitely consider building your business career here. Florida currently is the 21st largest economy in the world, and is the top gateway for Latin America commerce. There also is a pool of more than nine million workers to choose from. Chief Executive magazine ranked Florida last year as the #2 state in the country for business. Also, there is no state income tax here, so many businesses frequently come to Florida to set up shop.

Also, you have many excellent business school options in Florida where you can earn a high-quality MBA. The most recommended campus-based MBA programs in Florida include these:

1. Master of Business Administration – University of Miami – Coral Gables, Florida – The University of Miami School of Business will provide you with an innovative, flexible and career focused MBA. It is made for the professional who already has a bachelor’s degree in business, but is also suitable for those in other industries who want a dynamic business career. This is a 56 credit-hour program that you can complete in under two years, full time. Some of the concentrations you can choose include computer information systems, finance, international business, management, management science, six sigma, marketing, and consulting.
2. Executive Master of Business Administration – Florida International University – Miami, Florida – This MBA program is an elite program for professionals with several years of business experience and a good deal of business success. You will enter this program as a leader and will come out of it as a visionary leader who has global perspectives and leadership skills that can spearhead large corporations. This program focuses on leadership and innovation, and you can complete the program in 18 months. Classes are held every other Saturday in Miami and there are some online classes, as well.
3. Master of Business Administration – University of Tampa – Tampa, Florida – This full time MBA program will help you to develop the sophisticated mindset that you need to be a successful executive. This program features a Leading for Performance class that will truly improve your leadership ability. Students will boost their self-awareness as a top leader and you will focus on aligning your employees with the goals of your organization. You also will take a professional development practicum where you build a dynamic portfolio of professional activities and projects.
4. Master of Business Administration – University of West Florida – Pensacola, Florida – This high quality MBA program is designed for the successful working professional with limited time for graduate study. It features a comprehensive, integrated curriculum that is geared towards modern business practices. This program is designed to allow you to finish your MBA in five semesters, and it guarantees course availability. This program is accredited by the AACSB, which represents the highest level of achievement for business schools around the world.
5. Master of Business Administration – Florida State University – Tallahassee, Florida – This MBA program integrates both theory and practice, and will expose you to top research, the latest ideas and best practices. It will provide you with many opportunities to network with some of the leading business professionals in the state and across the world. You will gain tremendous quantitative skills in several exciting business disciplines, and you will gain a strong foundation in strong leadership and teamwork. You also will have access to the best business faculty, and you can finish this program in four semesters in most cases.
6. Master of Business Administration – University of Central Florida – Orlando, Florida – This university features a unique, one year MBA program that is focused on the non-MBA student who wants to get an MBA fast and also gain professional work experience while in school. You will take your business classes with a group of cohorts and you will have several internship and elective options to help you gain business skills. One of the major advantages of this program is that you can not only finish your MBA in one year, you do not have to pay any higher tuition to earn your degree. You also will receive the same MBA degree that all other students receive in the regular, two year program.
7. Professional Master of Business Administration – University of South Florida – Sarasota, Florida – This is a 39 credit-hour graduate program that is fully accredited by the AACSB. This program offers one or two Saturday classes each month so that busy working professionals can earn their MBA in about two years. Students can earn a general MBA or can choose a concentration, such as Accounting, Finance, Management or Marketing. You also can select a non-business concentration, such as sustainability, health care or hospitality management. This program uses case studies, experiential learning, group projects and group presentations to help you learn business concepts.

We’re embarking on exciting times in online education.

The quality of education you can get online is constantly improving as the world’s best schools continue to pump life in their distance learning programs, and the long-standing institutions take pains to keep up. Several universities are even opening their courses to anyone who has a desire to take a class, absolutely free!

– If you’ve found this list helpful please link to it to show your support! –

This is great news for anyone who wants to advance a career, learn a new skill, or simply round out an existing degree. Here’s a rundown of some of the best free business courses you can find online.

Related:

• 10 Online MBA Without GMAT Requirement: AACSB Options
• AACSB Accredited Online MBA Programs
• Top 100 Most Social Media Friendly MBA School Rankings Online for 2013
• 20 + Cool Online Executive EMBA Programs for Professionals

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics offers outlook information on various careers and details what their projected hiring will be in the future. Since there are many different jobs under the public administration umbrella, a few will be broken down now. Listed will be the occupation and the projected total change in employment anticipated.

• Compensation and Benefits Managers +1.9%
• Human Resource Managers                   +0.9%
• Training and Labor Relations Specialists   +0.3%
• Budget Analysts                                      +1.4%

These figures all show increases for demand of those with experience and education in public administration.

The average national salary figures included are from the salary section of careerbuilder.com. Each of the salaries listed are linked to the site to show you the figure represented. As with all averages, many actual jobs would pay quite a bit more, and many would pay less. The national average figure is helpful in finding relative salaries between the available job types under the public administration specialization.

SEE ALSO: 28+ Online MBA MPA Public Administration – A Dual Joint Degree

#1 Local Government Administrator

These careers take place in the public sector where employees are given the task of performing in the best interests of the citizens of the community. There is often the need to incorporate the opinions of the public in order to assess what their ideas are.  Things that a government administrator may need to do include:

• Supervising staff
• Organizing meetings
• Creating and maintaining fiscal budgets
• Communicating with all levels of government
• Creating goodwill for the local government with citizens and businesses

#2 Charity Executive Director

People in these positions need to be able to run an entire organization around the idea of raising money and best distributing it to fulfill their mission and goals. All activities fall under the command of the executive director and that person must be familiar with the overall production of the agency. Common duties of a charity’s Executive Director consist of:

• Managing all fundraising activities
• Recruit and train sufficient volunteers to execute plans
• Maintain budgeting and related record keeping
• Supervising staff
• Provide visibility and education of charity goals to public

#3 Budget Director

Being in charge of this career means that this person is specialized in the financial processes of the organization. They are the ones with the responsibility of making sure that each of the departments within the group are aware of the budgets that have been established for them to operate within, as well as update them through the year how their spending compares to the amount they are allotted. These professionals are often charged with using analysis to determine where profit can be increased, or where to make budgetary cuts if such reductions are necessary for the business to survive.

#4 Non-Profit Director

This person is the primary leader for all aspects of the non-profit organization. Depending on the industry or the orientation of the non-profit, the roles of this director can vary. As the ultimate authority to the Board of Directors, an established record of successful experience is often required for these jobs. It is important for this director to make all decisions with the framework of goals established by the group, since profit is not their primary motive for business.

#5 Policy Manager

An important part of the job of policy manager is in the presentation of the policy details and proposals of new policy details. This makes their presentation and planning skills of utmost importance. All of the work that goes into the policies and policy positions of an organization are extremely necessary to a well-defined mission and goals to direct future planning and strategy. Some important aspects of this job include:

• Assess policies for timeliness and appropriateness
• Reevaluate and research new policy ideas as warranted
• Must work with little or no supervision
• Make important decisions without delay
• Determine timelines and keep to them
• Effective problem-solving skills

#6 Labor Relations Specialist

These professionals are relied upon to maintain communications open between companies and the labor leadership of their workers. By studying and being familiar with all regulations and requirements, these specialists can play a big role in keeping up smooth relations with the represented labor in their facilities. Other duties are:

• Negotiating contracts
• Involve both sides in reaching equitable decisions
• Communicate and represent the needs of both sides to each other
• Examine compensation details between employees
• Ability to play peacekeeper during tension-filled arguments

#7 Public Housing Manager

This person oversees all operations within the public housing of a particular area or housing complex. These people must control all aspects of the housing, dealing with rentals, utility assistance, and to ensure that all regulations are enforced and followed through with. They must supervise all staff members, and produce all necessary paperwork to document government compliance with all procedures and requirements. An effective public housing manager demonstrates leadership to those that work for them, and must be able to look through all reports and financial statements to ensure that all requirements are being met.

#8 City/County Manager

This executive position within local government is the equivalent of a chief executive officer in business. All primary authority and responsibility for the functioning of the city/county fall on their shoulders. While these positions are normally appointed by the city council or the mayor.Typical duties are:

• Provide leadership to the various departments within local government
• Oversee activities related to policy and procedure development and implementation
• Contribute in meeting setting with other division representatives
• Coordinate with other similar agencies for improvement ideas.

#9 Transportation Planning Director

The types of issues that a transportation planner vary widely depending on the size and existence of infrastructural systems in that area. Larger metropolitan areas can have several planners and a director that oversees the planners. The kinds of things that a transportation planning director myst keep an eye on are:

• Assessment of current transportation condition
• Research areas of particular concentration or conflict
• Meetings with elected officials and government agencies on possible improvements
• Conduct research that aims to focus on particular areas of concern
• Keep current on the changing regulations and restrictions on government transport.

#10  Economic Development Director

Attracting new business and creating development opportunities for their jurisdiction are the primary goals of an economic development director. These professionals work mainly for local governments and look to shape the growth of the local area through the influx of jobs and hiring companies. Other tasks consist of:

• Evaluate existing policies to determine if “business friendly”
• Consider alternative policies that could make the community more attractive to incoming businesses.
• Work with industry and community leaders to encourage development
• Create marketing information that touts the real advantages of doing business in that local area.

#11 Human Resources Manager

This generalist is for smaller organizations that do not have the size to support a highly specified human resources department. This person would take care of all issues regarding employees and their particular concerns. This one executive would be responsible for compensation, payroll, benefits, insurance questions, training and hiring. For larger organizations, many of these individual functions within human resources would be handled by their own dedicated professional that deals with just that topic.

#12 Compensation and Benefits Manager

In larger corporations, there would be a dedicated professional that only deals with compensation and benefits and the management of those services for the employees. These include payroll, retirement plans, insurance offerings, and any other benefit provided to employees at the workplace. Job responsibilities include:

• Compare benefits package to competitors’ offerings
• Track the process that delivers benefits to the employees
• Maintain competitiveness with other companies to attract the best employees
• Ensure compliance with all regulations and labor representatives, if applies
• Create and maintain budget for regular operations

#13 Government Relations Lobbyist

These professionals of the public sector are charged with getting their voices heard in governmental chambers and to represent the needs of their organization in that manner.  Bringing this attention to elected officials is done to encourage preferential treatment for bidding, contracts, and favorable treatment relative to the market. A keen understanding of how a particular branch of the government works is crucial for a person looking to succeed in this position. In addition, excellent presentation and sales skills would benefit this person because they are hired to be convincing of the leaders in power.

#14 Public Utilities Specialist

For those interested in leadership positions in the public utilities sector, this career path would be a good one. Getting intimately familiar with all aspects of public utilities and the systems used to manage them would be the main portion of the duties for this professional. This analyst of the public utilities would be required to:

• Evaluate work processes for organizational changes
• Review internal processes and procedures
• Research results to determine whether desired outcomes are being achieved
• Coordinate with leadership for upgrades to any information systems necessary
• Incorporate all relevant factors towards future policy and programs

#15 Community Revitalization Director

The duties that fall under this position are similar to those of an economic development director. The need to bring positive business to the area in hopes of better availability of jobs as well as retail and shopping for the residents. In revitalization, the main difference is that development needs to be brought to an area that has fallen into disrepair and has fallen out of favor with the same people they are looking to attract. This makes the challenge exponentially more difficult  to bring new business in, because often times there need to be substantial concessions made by the municipality in order to entice the new businesses in. That can take the form of reduced property taxes on property, low interest loans for building construction, or reduced payroll taxes for a certain amount of time after the business relocates to the target area.

SEE ALSO: MBA Online Healthcare Management

Even during the depths of the most recent recession, healthcare was one of three industries that still was expanding its workforce. As a consequence, there are a growing number of strong online MBA programs that concentrate on healthcare:

1. Saint Leo University: Gaining your MBA in Health Care Management will help you to earn the professional skills and experience that you need to be a highly successful manager in today’s health care environment. The health care management concentration explores US health insurance, health care and taxes, legal and ethical issues that face patients and providers; consumer health care, federal and state health policy processes and community health evaluation. This program is 100% online and may be completed in two years.
2. George Washington University: This online Healthcare MBA is taught by some of the best business faculty in the world. It will teach you all of the fundamentals of business management so you can have more responsibilities in your health care business career. You will take core classes in business law, strategy, finance, marketing management and operations. You also will have the chance to take electives in management of acute care facilities, physician practice management, and managing skilled nursing facilities.
3. Penn State: With the AACSB-accredited online Healthcare MBA from Penn State, you will gain the tools and knowledge to view your organization strategically. This online MBA is quite unique because of its outstanding networking opportunities, diverse virtual teams, the integrated curriculum, top customer service, and frequent residency experiences. The curriculum integrates the latest business strategies and practical knowledge of business, and it links management, marketing, finance, accounting and operations.
4. Ohio University: This university has a new online Healthcare MBA that is fully accredited by the AACSB, which is one of the most respected accreditation organizations in the country. Some of the required classes for this dynamic online MBA include Data Analysis, Strategic Management of Human Capital, Managerial Accounting, Information Systems for Managers, Operations Management, Strategic Leadership and Managerial Finance for Healthcare Managers.
5. Northeastern University: This online MBA with a specialization in Healthcare Management will allow you to fully explore the evolution of the healthcare industry in America. You will analyze the impact of changes in the healthcare field, and you will be introduced to how the regulatory, economic, political and social aspects of our healthcare system relate to each other. You also will analyze all of the managerial aspects of the health care industry – strategic decision making, environmental analysis, strategic formulation and how to implement strategy.
6. Capella University: You can boost your career potential in the rapidly growing field of healthcare management, with this accredited MBA. To help you grow in your career, you will learn integrated business disciplines that will ready you to excel in a cross functional business environment. Also, you will find that this health care management MBA is made to boost your management and business skills that are essential for you to perform well in the health care industry. You can finish this degree online in about two years.
7. Western Governor’s University: This is a fully online healthcare MBA that will provide you with ample opportunities for advancement. This will prepare you with the knowledge and skills that you will need to take on many upper management positions in the healthcare field. In this fully accredited program, you will study the following six disciplines: creating and maintaining business value; healthcare management; innovation; leading people and teams; management and strategy and products and customer relationship management.
8. Kaplan University: This is a fully accredited, online MBA in Health Care Management that can be completed in less than three years. Some of the required classes in this specialization include Health Care Operations and Quality Assessment; Health Care Policy; Health Care Marketing, and International Epidemiology and Global Health. Overall, this MBA program will provide you with an international mindset and the ability to understand global healthcare issues and to manage relationships across cultures.
9. Grand Canyon University: Earn your MBA with an emphasis in Health Systems Management. This two year online degree will provide you with the capacity to engage in transformational leadership through the effective application of modern business practices. Required classes include Strategic Management, Legal and Ethical Principles in Health Care, Health Care Policy and Economics, Operations Management and Managerial Accounting.
10. Baker College Online: The Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Health Care Management gives you the best academic training and the best field-based learning opportunity possible in the allied health field. You will look at the importance of healthcare management in our economy today, and will study the issues and problems that health care managers today must confront.

A recent article on Bloomberg Businessweek.com states that many large employers in the US are planning to hire MBA grads in 2013, with their study showing 76% of those companies planning to hire them. This news is positive for those considering getting an MBA degree to advance their own professional careers, especially at a time when nearly every other study shows stagnant hiring or even losses of jobs.

This new outlook on employment after graduation has led many recent grads away from the traditional fields of finance and accounting and marketing towards more modern specializations. In US News and World Report, there is a story citing a career center director from University of Minnesota, that graduates of today are “seeking–and finding–work with start-ups, nonprofits, and companies whose products and services benefit the world in some way.” These are the kinds of jobs that can be in line with an MBA degree and the Public Administration chosen as the specialization field.

SEE ALSO: Video Perspective of Why Students Chose MBA MPA Dual Degree

The following listing includes 30 of the top online programs for getting the Master of Business Administration degree with an emphasis on the field of Public Administration. Each listing will include the name of the degree program, the school that it is offered at, as well as school-specific information. This includes whether or not they require the GMAT test for admission, and other relevant facts about credit hours, the proportion of hours devoted to the specialization, and unique program format details.

1. MBA in Public Administration - Northcentral University – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) This online degree program is designed for current public administrators interested in advanced skill and training in all relevant areas. There is no requirement for a GMAT test score when applying to this school. The 30 total credit hours are made up of half foundation courses and half specialization courses.
2. MBA in Public Administration - Golden Gate University – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) Of primary importance in this curriculum is the familiarity of how the government bureaucracy works. The 12 hours that make up the public administration specialization can be decided from available choices of applicable subjects. Applicants are required to submit a GMAT test score to this school.
3. MBA in Public Administration - DeVry University Keller Graduate School of Management – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) Public administration is one of 17 different specializations offered under the MBA at this school. The graduates will be well prepared for the special environments of governmental and non-profit organizations. The GMAT test is accepted under certain situations, but they offer an alternative test that can be taken at no charge instead of the GMAT test.
4. MBA in Self-Designed Studies - Walden University – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) This specialization option is available at this school for those with specific interests that are not part of an actual specified concentration. With 15 choices of concentrations under the MBA program, there are many courses that apply to public administration, and would satisfy the needs of most students with this interest. They have options for studying abroad during the summer sessions, that would be of particular interest to those interested in working within the global framework of many organizations. The GMAT test score is not required at this school.
5. MBA in Public Administration - Strayer University – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) This degree program consists of 12 courses and can be completed on a part-time basis in three years or in 1.5 years on a full-time basis. The online nature of the curriculum makes it very easy to accommodate other commitments that students may have, either personal or work-related. The GMAT test score is required of certain applicants that have either not enough relevant work experience or a low GPA from their undergraduate studies.
6. MBA in Government and Policy - Grand Canyon University – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) This concentration deals with the public arena and covers all necessary topics of public administration. These include public governance, public budgeting, intergovernmental relations, as well as others. They do not require a GMAT test score. The 38 total credit hours make up the degree requirements.
7. MBA in Multidisciplinary Studies - Post University – (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) This degree program is designed to be completed in 2 years, and their website claims that 87% of their students complete the program in that amount of time. They do not need a GMAT test score to apply. The multidisciplinary options allows the student to select their courses from all courses the school offers, and that includes from their master degree in public administration.
8. MBA in Public Administration - South University – This program provides options under non-profits, public policy, and criminal justice. The highly customizable program can be designed for each student and their particular interests. The GMAT is required under certain circumstances but not for most.
9. MBA in Public Administration - Ashford University – This 36 credit hour degree contains the core and concentration classes for cross-functional abilities. The courses of public administration involve foundations, government budgeting, and public policy development. There is no GMAT test score required for this school.
10. MBA in Public Administration - Columbia Southern University – Working professionals are the target for this program and is meant to work around the working schedule while they continue working during the course of their education. This part-time basis will take an estimated three years to finish. 12 of the 37 credits are involving the specialization material of public administration.
11. MBA in Public Administration - Eastern Washington University – The offerings under public administration will prepare graduates for positions in the area of their interests. The GMAT test score is needed to apply to this school. The curriculum involves case studies as well as experiences with businesses in the area to apply their knowledge. It is possible to earn this degree in one year under the right circumstances.
12. MBA in Public Administration - Concordia University Wisconsin – Designed to prepare government workers with a better understanding of business and how the business world functions. There is no need to take the GMAT for this school. The degree is made up of 39 total credits, with 15 of them being for the specialization.
13. MBA in Public Administration - Liberty University Online – This degree requires 45 total credits for completion, and allows up to 12 credits to be transferred from previous completion. They do not require a GMAT test score at this school. The broad perspective of the MBA core courses provide a thorough understanding to the graduates as they enter into the business workforce into positions of increased authority and responsibility.
14. MBA in Public Administration - University of Texas-Pan American – This no-GMAT school offers this program for working professionals to gain the knowledge of the business world and how it functions in various public sector positions. The degree takes 12 months to complete and is made up of 36 credit hours.
15. MBA in Public Administration - University of Findlay – The GMAT test score is required for students applying to this program. The expected time to earn the degree in 24 months, and is made up of at least 33 credit hours. Taking courses on a full-time basis does allow degree completion in one year. An interesting benefit at this program, that they estimate to be worth $2,000 to each student, is the free textbook rental program.
16. MBA in Public Administration - Globe University – For students taking the classes in this degree on a full-time basis, it can be finished in 18 months. All students receive instruction that enables them to function in an organization and be able to represent their duties to all levels of that organization. There is a final project completed at the end of the program by each student to demonstrate their new skills and knowledge gained from the program. No GMAT test is needed for this school.
17. MBA in Public Administration - The University of North Dakota – This school has a unique policy on pricing, by offering in-state tuition to each student no matter where they live. All functions of business are studied in terms of planning, organizing, operating, and controlling. The 33-34 total credits can be completed in two years on an online only basis.
18. MBA in Public Administration - Old Dominion University – Looking into public sector policy making, analysis, and decision making provide a clear understanding to students of the particular components of public administration that differ from regular enterprise. It is possible to transfer up to 12 semester hours towards the 48 total semester hours needed to graduate. The GMAT is required from applicants in most circumstances.
19. MBA in Public Administration Leadership - Belhaven University – By selecting the concentration of leadership, the courses offered touch on much of what is included in a public administration specialization, but can be combined with electives that coordinate with their master of public administration degree in order to fulfill the needs of students interested in the MBA with a public administration specialization. The GMAT is not required for this school.
20. MBA in Public Administration - University of La Verne – This program contains the same teachers and curriculum as their campus program. They call their concentrations under the MBA “possible through on the ground options,” and since they also have a master degree in public administration available, it is that coursework that would qualify as a public administration focus. There is no GMAT required for this program.
21. MBA in Public Safety Leadership - Herzing University Online – This school does not require a GMAT test score if certain undergrad GPA and/or previous relevant work experience have been satisfied. The 39 credit hours include nine hours of coursework relative to the public safety leadership concentration, and include administration, resource management, and managing organizational performance. This degree is only available to those applicants with a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.
22. MBA in Organizational Leadership and Corporate Citizenship - Ferris State University – Each session in this degree program is seven weeks long, allowing more flexibility in scheduling for students with outside commitments. The curriculum is built around the seven criteria of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for Performance Excellence. This focus ensures that coursework addresses the necessary skills and abilities that each graduate needs to have in order to adequately serve the business world as a leader. There is no GMAT required here.
23. MBA in Public Administration - Fitchburg State University – The program at this school is a 30 credit hour, ten class program that can be completed online in 17 months.  Applicants without an undergraduate degree in business can still be admitted here, but they will be required to complete business prerequisites before beginning the degree courses. They do require a GMAT test score for admission to this school.
24. MBA in Public Administration - National University – The five core themes incorporated into all aspects of this program are relevance, accessibility, specialization, application, and technology. GMAT test score is only required from applicants that earned between 2.0 and 2.49 GPA on their undergraduate degree.
25. MBA in NonProfit Management - Drake University – This degree program is made up of 39 total credit hours, with nine of them relating to their specialization field. The GMAT test score is required at this school. This specialization is the one with the public administration coursework similar to other programs, and can be highly specialized for each student’s individual interests by selecting from their wide variety of classes offered.
26. MBA in Public Administration - Tarleton State University – The totally online option at this school is geared towards busy working professionals. Email, chat, and discussion boards are used to provide the learning environment of each student learning from each other’s experiences and opinions. 15 of the 36 total credit hours needed to graduate are from electives. This gives the students a lot of choice in the kinds of subjects they get advanced training in. A GMAT test score is needed for application to this school.
27. MBA in Public Administration - Suffolk University – This online program allows for either part-time or full-time scheduling of classes. Part-time students who work outside of class will be able to bring their workplace experiences into classroom discussions for everyone to be able to learn to apply the ideas learned in class. There is no GMAT requirement for this program.
28. MBA in Public Administration - University of Delaware – This school requires a GMAT for admission, but does provide waivers for certain circumstances involving previous degrees, work experience, or GPAs. The specialization chosen by each student fives them 12 hours of classes to provide expertise in their field. Courses develop skills through creative analysis and decision making by applying tools to real world company situations.
29. MBA in Public Administration - University of North Carolina – This well regarded on campus MBA now offers an online MBA with the same curriculum and same teachers as the on campus option. The online courses combine open timed lectures that can be done at your own pace, as well as live class sessions that must be completed at a pre-determined time. Classes are designed to use modern video technology in order to create the most real classroom experience possible from wherever you are. The GMAT test score is required of all applicants.
30. MBA in Public Administration - Lindenwood University – The GMAT test score is required for admission to this school. They also require a GPA of 3.0 or higher from the applicant’s undergraduate degree. The coursework for the emphasis on public administration are chosen from the relevant electives available.

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• Online MBA MSN Dual Degree + 7 Cool Program Options for RN’s
• 29+ Online MBA Dual Degree Programs – Great Options!

Although accountants in a general sense have the opportunity to make $80,000 or more at the middle of their career and many will make $120,000 or more when they reach the senior ranks, a Forensic Accounting professional has the opportunity to make more at the beginning of his or her career, and thus finish stronger than even the average accountant. Not surprisingly, though, there are relatively few jobs available in Forensic Accounting and those that are available tend to be highly competitive. An online MBA in Forensic Accounting can help!

Here, you can explore some of the options available when you look for an online MBA in Accounting include a specialization or focus in Forensic Accounting:

1. Master of Business Administration in Forensic Accounting - Jones International University - (Highly Recommended & 100% Online!) Jones International University is one of the most high profile online universities in the world and has a full range of programs in Accounting and many other areas of business. Jones students are expected to come in to the program with a strong background in accounting so that they are able to realize their educational goals more smoothly. Students will encounter a total of 36 credit hours of work that will run the gamut of different Forensic Accounting scenarios and specializations, plus a unique Capstone Course related to the individual student’s professional goals.
2. Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination Graduate Certificate Online – West Virginia University – The West Virginia University Online program in Forensic Accounting is one of the only programs of its kind that focuses specifically and exclusively on the forensic aspect of Accounting, rather than requiring a student to take extra courses in order to earn that designation. Topics include fraud examination, white collar crime, financial reporting and civil litigation. You will be able to combine this credential with virtually any of the MBA programs and other graduate programs that you might find in Accounting, since it is offered as a master’s certificate. The entire course load for the certificate is only four classes, allowing you to complete your new credential in two semesters.
3. Master of Forensic Accounting Online – University of Charleston – The University of Charleston offers this hybrid Master of Forensic Accounting degree that can incorporate traditional “face to face” classes as well as the flexible online course work that students have come to expect. It is one of the only programs of its kind and focuses on the realities of financial crime scene investigation and reporting. Students will learn how to apply principles of Accounting to areas such as criminology, ethics, and the law. When a student graduates, they will be well prepared to join the legal profession in an accounting capacity as a fraud examiner or other type of Forensic Accounting professional.
4. Executive Master of Accounting with Concentration in Forensic Accounting Online – Florida Atlantic University – This Forensic Accounting program lasts for two years and includes a unique format allowing online students to listen in to lectures on their iPads or other mobile devices. One of the most comprehensive programs of its kind, it provides knowledge in a wide range of areas of Forensic Accounting and fraud investigation. These can include fraud prevention, litigation support, valuation, money laundering, testimony as an expert, and other areas related to participating in criminal investigations. This program attracts professionals from all over the world and is known for its welcoming and inclusive environment.
5. Forensic Accounting Programs Including Graduate & Bachelor’s Degree Level Online – Franklin University – The Franklin University program in Forensic Accounting focuses on helping students to understand the regulatory requirements behind the financial world so that they can act as a key piece of an organization’s compliance structure. Forensic compliance specialists help organizations to avoid millions or even tens of millions in potential fines by ensuring that all of their Accounting practices meet the high standards set by the federal government in the wake of the Enron scandal. Like students in other programs, they will also be prepared to offer litigation support and deal with other matters related to uncovering and stopping white collar crime.
6. Online Forensic Accounting Master of Business Administration Degree – Southern New Hampshire University – The Forensic Accounting Master of Business Administration at Southern New Hampshire University is a uniquely flexible program that offers an entire Forensic Accounting course load available part time or full time. You can get through most of the courses in an accelerated format allowing you to complete them in eleven weeks. The program does not require the GRE or the GMAT as a standard of deciding who is allowed to enter, so you can get started even if you are a mid-career professional who has not taken standardized tests.

SEE ALSO: 28+ Online MBA Entrepreneurship Degree Programs

With distance learning technology becoming so powerful and widespread these days, it is now possible to find a variety of outstanding entrepreneurship courses online. In fact, many of these courses are just as good as those that you would encounter as part of a degree program.

Not only that, but more and more online entrepreneurship courses are free. Some courses are actually designed by entrepreneurs so that you can be sure they will have up to date, relevant information. They can be accessed from anywhere, and you won’t have to worry about heavy tuition bills or student loan debt.

SEE ALSO: 100+ Free Online Business Courses & Certificates

How does that sound for a really “entrepreneurial” way of getting your business education? Here is a quick look at some of the most exciting and effective FREE online courses that you can look at in order to bring your business skills up to the next level.

[This list is ongoing! If you have a free online course we should have listed contact us]

1. Critical Thinking in Global Challenges: Critical thinking is an important part of any entrepreneur’s life. It becomes even more challenging when you apply it to the kind of global thinking you will need to achieve in order to develop a massive global enterprise. This quick introductory course can get you thinking the right way.
2. Organizational Analysis: Any entrepreneur realizes that he or she can’t “go it alone” for good. When you enroll in this course, you will have the opportunity to analyze the change management strategies of real organizations and apply your analytical skills to your own enterprise issues and problems in the real world.
3. Developing Innovative Ideas for New Companies: If you want to “wow” potential investors and make sure that your ideas will get both the press and funding that they deserve, you will need fresh ideas that capture the imagination. This course will give you ways to come up with new ideas and to develop them as business plans.
4. How to Reason and Argue: As an entrepreneur, you will constantly be “selling” your great ideas and will have to deal with the objections that others might have. This course will teach you how to deal with the problem by using logical and powerful arguments that will help win your critics over to your way of thinking more easily.
5. Introduction to Operations Management: When you are running a business of any size, you will find that “operations” covers a lot of ground. In order to be a truly effective leader, you can use this course to understand the basic principles of operations management that you will be using on a daily basis as your team grows.
6. Smart Growth for Small Business: As your business changes and grows, its needs will be more complex. Use this course to garner an understanding of how to shepherd your business through that crucially important early phase in its life and grow it more effectively so you can realize your goals.
7. Foundations of Business Strategy: In order to grow beyond the opening stages that you just conquered above, you will need to understand the principles taught in this course. Find out how to compose and express a business strategy that will guide your business through the other phases of growth and help attract capital.
8. How To Build A Startup: Even a great startup idea is not so great without customers to bring your ideas to fruition. This course focuses on finding customers and employing proven strategies to ensure that you will be able to secure and use their feedback effectively.
9. Web Development: Unless you are planning to develop a completely local business that only uses a traditional storefront, you will need a powerful website to get customers to your products. Take a hands-on approach in this course and you’ll be able to guide the creative direction of your site and avoid scams from fly-by-night web marketing firms.
10. Internet Marketing: This course goes hand in hand with the one above in helping entrepreneurs develop the savvy to understand what’s necessary to make their website successful and ensure that it creates a proven bottom line impact throughout the entire organization.
11. What Is Networking?: Too many people believe that networking is just another way of asking people what they can do for you. Go above and beyond with this course that teaches you the truth about networking and puts the power of social capital in your hands.
12. Mission and Vision: Without a strong mission and vision, you might find that it’s difficult to convince others that your business matters. Learn about the steps in developing a mission that will resonate with others and put you on the map quickly.
13. The Art and Science of Negotiation: Entrepreneurs need to be able to negotiate on behalf of their organizations. To make sure that you can capture high value contracts while minimizing the costs of what your business needs, use this class.
14. Business Ethics in Contemporary Business: Virtually every MBA program includes at least one class that focuses on the meteoric rise and cataclysmic fall of Enron, the company that was touted as one of the most profitable and important before unethical accounting practices came to light. Now, you can discover how ethics relate to the business landscape of today through this convenient free course.
15. Management vs. Leadership: The Difference: While virtually anyone can learn to “manage,” it takes true talent, persistence and dedication to become a great leader. Learn about the differences and how you can realize the best aspects of both “leading” and “managing” in this insightful class. This can help you get the most value out of all of your team members by winning and keeping their respect.
16. Characteristics of the Successful Entrepreneur: Jeff Hawkins is the co-founder of Palm and Handspring and is the architect of many computing products such as the PalmPilot and the Treo smartphone. In this course he will take you on a journey through his career, how he became an entrepreneur and the importance of believing in your product. He teaches valuable lessons about the importance of experience, following your passions and how to keep a work/life balance. He discusses how to design successful products, the role of market research and the need to continuously test products. In terms of the company workplace, he talks about how a good business culture and a strong human resources policy are vital. You will also learn about the importance and inevitability of portable technology.
17. Creating Business Start-ups the Kawasaki Way: Guy Kawasaki is best known as “chief evangelist” of Apple. In this free online course he gives important lessons about entrepreneurship. He explains why he thinks that the most successful companies will be those that aim to create a positive change in society. He explains how to make meaning in your company so that you can make a difference. You will learn about mantras, getting going, defining a business model and creating a niche for your company. He also recommends that you hire “infected” people, people who love the product or service. You will also learn about lowering barriers to adoption, approaching sales and how to become a “mensch”.
18. Creating an Entrepreneur’s Checklist for Success: Steve Blank is a serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in high technology companies and management. He is also a Consulting Professor at Stanford in the Graduate School of Engineering. In this free online course he goes through a checklist of questions and answers that will be helpful to any new business leader. He offers insights and case studies from industry and new technology companies. He focuses on important areas for business start-ups including market opportunity, market regulations and distribution, competitors and complimentors, and technology breakthroughs.
19. Critical Skills for Entrepreneurs: Jerry Kaplan is widely known in the computer industry as a serial entrepreneur, executive, technical innovator and author. In this free online course he explains what the best qualities of serial entrepreneurs are and the five biggest mistakes that entrepreneurs make. He discusses the five critical skills that entrepreneurs need: leadership, communication, decision-making, being a team player and the ability to telescope. He explains the vital importance of sales skills and recruiting people to sell for you. This course will show you how the timing of an idea is very important and why it is very difficult to call. Kaplan shares his advice on the types of risks that companies face when they start off and how the trick is to get the risk out as soon as possible.
20. Why Entrepreneurs Should Think Big: Donna Novitsky has many years of experience as both an entrepreneur and venture capitalist. She is CEO of Big Tent Design and was formerly venture capitalist at Mohr Davidow Ventures. Her motto is “Go big or don’t go!” and this has driven her work as both entrepreneur and venture capitalist. In this course, you can listen to Donna Novitsky as she explains why entrepreneurs should think big when they are investing so much of their time, energy and passion into creating a business. She also explains how to differentiate between the roles of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists in areas such as business strategy and execution, technology and team building, business diversity and singular focus.
21. Entrepreneurship – Creating the Business: Entrepreneurship is the cornerstone of any modern economy – Everyday entrepreneurs around the world are starting their own business. This free online course from ALISON examines characteristics of entrepreneurs and also examines the kind of business models and marketing strategies an entrepreneur can use to start a business. This course is ideal for anyone who wants to learn more about entrepreneurship or who may be thinking about starting their own business.
22. Creating a Need for Your Product: AgraQuest is a company which developed a groundbreaking bio-pesticide that changed the way food is cultivated using pesticides and was a revolution in growing safer food for consumers. In this free online course Pam Marrone, founder of AgraQuest, discusses about how she guided AgraQuest to be today’s leader in bio-pesticides. With her savvy business sense, we learn how Pam pioneered a huge turnaround in marketing the AgraQuest product to capture a niche in the pesticide market. We learn the key factors which brought about the formation of AgraQuest and what changes were made in the pesticide market to convince farmers that they needed to make the change to bio-pesticides manufactured by AgraQuest.