Published
April 30, 2013
Culinary arts have become a popular degree program at community colleges across the country. What is fueling this sudden surge of foodies? Some believe it is the growing number of cooking programs on television that tend to glamorize what was once known as a relatively mundane, low-paying industry. TV has also increased interest in food enjoyment, which has further fueled the need for talented chefs – providing more opportunities for those who pursue a two-year degree in culinary arts. As the cycle continues, more college students are taking a serious look at the potential for a culinary arts degree, as well as the best schools to pursue an education in all things culinary.
Los Angeles Colleges See “Explosion” of Enrollment
The culinary arts programs at community colleges in
Los Angeles have never been healthier. According to the
Daily Breeze, enrollment in some programs has more than doubled within a few years. Some schools are reporting an overflow of students in classes and an even longer wait list for students who were unable to get into the classes of their choice.
For example, the culinary arts program at
Los Angeles Mission College has more than doubled the student population in just three years – from 250 students to 600 currently. The school has recently expanded the space for their program, adding an extensive new facility that boasts seven full kitchens equipped with some of the latest cooking technology. The $40 facility seemed to go up almost overnight, with plans...
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Published
April 25, 2013
Ready to kick your dead end job in favor of more lucrative prospects? A
community college degree might be just the ticket. Many of the jobs in the U.S. that were hot at the end of the 20
th century are barely simmering today. Now might be the perfect time to make a career change with the help of the two-year school in your area. Check out these jobs gaining ground and alternatives that might put you back on a positive career track once again.
Desktop Publisher
This job was a hot one at the end of the last century, as many small business owners turned to pros to turn out their marketing material and newsletters. However, new and improved software has made the job significantly easier, which makes the job of the desktop publisher less cost-effective today. Some companies are also outsourcing this type of work to save a buck. According to
Yahoo Finance, this field is expected to decline by more than 14 percent over the next decade, as businesses turn to other sources for their publishing needs.
Instead of stagnating in the fading world of desktop publishing, Yahoo Finance suggests an alternative career in
drafting. Drafting takes you from published designs to manufacturing designs, creating technical drawings and plans for everything from the cardboard holder for your coffee cup to full-size building structures. Many community colleges across the country offer two-year degree programs to help you launch a new drafting career. Average annual pay for drafters is...
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Published
April 25, 2013
If you are looking for a job with serious career potential for the 21st century, a community college might be just the place to start. Two-year schools offer a wealth of degree options for in-demand industries for the local workforce and beyond. Check out these 10 community college degrees with excellent future potential.
Plumber
Plumbing may not be the first thing you think of when you are considering lucrative careers for the 21
st century, but guess what? This industry is predicted to grow by more than 25 percent over the next 10 years, according to
Yahoo Finance. The average annual salary can go up to more than $67,000 as well. While some enter the plumbing industry through an apprenticeship or on-the-job experience, an associate degree from a local community college could sweeten the pot on the employment front.
Veterinary Technician
If you love animals, a career as a
veterinary technician might be the perfect choice. These professionals work alongside veterinarians, offering support with regular checkups, performing diagnostic examinations and assisting during surgery. A two-year degree from the right community college can launch your career in this growing field. According to
Money Crashers, the projected growth for veterinary technicians over the next 10 years is around 35 percent, with an average annual salary of $30,000.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
These healthcare professionals utilize ultrasound equipment to screen and diagnose a number of conditions. As this technology has grown and evolved to encompass a large number of diagnostic purposes, the need for medical sonographers has...
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Published
February 18, 2013
STEM education (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) has become the edge the U.S. needs to compete in the global workforce of the 21
st century. How to get that education is now a source of discussion for business and education leaders. The shift from four-year schools to a two-year degree is a pronounced one, and while it may not be right for everyone, it is a key component in the economic health of this country. Are community colleges becoming the new leader in STEM education?
The Rise of STEM
Community College Week reported on 2012 data released by the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology that suggested that if the U.S. is to remain a STEM leader, the country must produce one million more STEM graduates than current rates project. The
Atlantic reports that according to a 2011 STEM report from the Center on Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University, 92 percent of STEM workers will need post-secondary education by 2018. Around 35 percent of that number will require training at the community college level, while another 65 percent will need baccalaureate degrees.
STEM fields are extensive today, including a wide range of
engineering and science industries. Some of the fields currently being transformed by innovations in science and technology include construction,
advanced manufacturing,
healthcare, biotechnology, transportation and
energy. STEM might include work with computers, electricity, biochemistry, statistics, engineering and geography. There will also be a demand for teachers who can instruct up...
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Published
February 05, 2013
A two-year degree can launch a
lucrative career in a variety of industries today. For those looking for the best job stability and security after college,
high-growth careers are a good option. These fields are predicted to enjoy faster than average growth over the next few years, ensuring more jobs will be available for those trained to move into positions. Check out these high-growth jobs you can land with a two-year degree to determine which career is right for you.
Nurse
The field of
nursing is one of the hottest in terms of growth right now, according to
Yahoo Education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts this field while grow by 26 percent through 2018. As the
baby boomer population ages, the need for
health care workers, particularly nurses, with continue to increase. Many enter this field with an associate degree in nursing and vocational certification. The average annual salary for a registered nurse is $60,010.
Dental Hygienist
Yahoo Finance states that the predicted job growth for
dental hygienists through 2018 is a whopping 38 percent. This field also offers excellent income potential, with an average annual salary of around $68,000. Many earning that amount work part-time hours. More dental hygienists will be needed as the demand for high quality dental care increases across the United States. Most dental hygienists enter the field with a two-year associate degree.
Medical Coder
Medical coders and medical information technicians maintain patient records for doctors’ offices, clinics and hospitals....
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Published
May 14, 2013
Community colleges do not traditionally boast high completion rates, but there are many ideas in the works at schools across the country to bring those rates up. We look at a few that are making headlines today.
New York College Gets Big Donation, New Name
We report on a large donation given to New Community College in New York – possibly one of the biggest donations to ever be given to a two-year school. Now, the school is changing its name and using the money to improve completion rates and provide grants to eligible students.
Pima Community College Placed on Probation
We explore the reasons behind the recent probation of Pima Community College, and what the Arizona school plans to do to bring their credentials back up to par once again.
More articles:
About Community College,
Student Issues / Attending College,
College Policies,
Courses in College,
Community College News
Green Careers
Jobs in the green sector are growing red hot in demand. Learn about all the career options you have in sustainability.
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Discover the Latest Eco-Friendly Innovations from the Green California Community College Summit
Take a peek into the Green California Community College Summit to learn about the latest developments in eco-friendly technology, jobs, and trends.
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Launch a Career in Corrosion Technology at Your Local Community College
Corrosion technology is one of the hottest new industries community colleges are training for. Currently, only a handful of schools offer a program, but the field is open for new graduates.
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Learning the Eco-Friendly Way: Community College Nature-Based Studies and Environmental Clubs
Explore how community colleges are pioneering the “green” trend and learn about new environmental protection clubs and exciting nature classes.
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Sustainable Energy Programs Translate into Sustainable Careers for Community College Students
With the change in energy production trends, sustainable energy technology careers are in high demand, and you can start your training for a highly-demanded career right at your local community college.
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Growing a Career in Horticulture
If you have a green thumb and are looking for a growing career, consider the training opportunities available at community colleges.
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Cementing a Green Career as a Composite Technician
In spite of the recession, composite technicians are in high demand. Learn about this green career and how you can get the training for the available jobs in just weeks.
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Starting the Engines of Tomorrow: Biodiesel Programs at Community College
Start your engines…powered by biodiesel! Learn more about biodiesel programs at community college and how these could jumpstart a lucrative green career for you.
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Renewable Energy Creates Opportunities for Community College Students
Learn how community colleges are evolving to provide opportunities in the growing fields of renewable energy.
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Get Down to Earth with an Environmental Science Degree from Your Local Community College
Learn about the many opportunities available with an associate degree in environmental science and some of the community colleges offering course studies in this field.
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How to Go Organic at Community College
Learn about how community colleges across the nation are offering organic gardening classes, as well as opportunities to grow your own organic crops!
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Class to Corp: Chatanooga State Community College Opens New Whacker Institute
As a growing trend of training specifically for local companies, a new training center at Chatanooga State Community College will prepare students for jobs at the Whacker Chemical Corp.
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Could a Smart Grid Degree Be a Smart Choice for Your Career?
The "smart grid" presents a myriad of opportunities for green collar jobs. Learn about the job prospects in the industry and how your local community college can provide you with the training to capitalize on this growing industry.
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Alternative Automobiles: New Training Programs at Community College
Learn about the demand for technicians of alternative fuel automobiles and its future career potential. Start your career as an alternative fuel vehicle technician at your local community college.
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Harness the Power of the Sun for Your Solar Technician Career
Solar technicians are in high demand, and you can energize your own career or solar business, starting with training at community college.
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Green Community College Programs Grow Red Hot
Learn about "green" educational opportunities in high-demand environmental fields that can start right at your local community college.
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Charge Your Career as an Energy Storage Technician
Learn about the growing demand for energy storage technicians and future job prospects in the field.
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More Sustainability Coming to Community Colleges Nationwide
Learn about new sustainability programs designed to educate students on green industries and how students can use those studies to build successful, “green” careers.
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Wind Energy Careers Blow Away Recession Woes
If you are looking for a recession-proof career with excellent job prospects, consider enrolling in a wind energy program at your local community college.
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See a Bright Future with Solar Training at Your Local Community College
Due to the tremendously growing demand in the field, new solar technology labs and training programs are opening at schools across the country.
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How Community Colleges are Cutting Costs with New Resources
Learn about how community colleges across the nation are reducing their campus costs by incorporating eco-friendly and green technologies.
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Healthcare Careers
Recession-proof and rewarding, healthcare careers can be started right from community college.
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Sleeping Towards a Lucrative Career in Polysomnography Technology
If you are interested in sleep, then a polysomnography career may be right for you. Learn about how you can begin this lucrative career in studying sleep disorders at your local community college.
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A Rewarding, Recession-Proof Nursing Career Starts at Community College
Nursing remains a highly rewarding career that will remain not only in demand, but recession-proof. Learn about how to begin your nursing career at community college.
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Top 10 Healthcare Careers to Land with a Community College Degree in 2013
The healthcare field is booming in 2013 – we’ll look at some of the top career choices in the industry that you can enter with just a two-year degree program.
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10 Top Health Fields You Can Enter with an Associate Degree
Learn about 10 of the best jobs in health care that you can land with just a two-year degree from your local community college.
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Whats Hot in Health Care at Community Colleges Today?
A career in healthcare is rewarding, recession-proof, and financially lucrative. Consider the 10 hottest healthcare careers today that can be started right from community college.
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Addiction Counseling Degrees: Starting at Community College
Whether motivated through personal experience or compassion, addiction counseling can help save people's lives. Learn about how you can start your career in addiction counseling right from community college.
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Smiling in a Highly Demanded Occupation: Dental Therapy
Learn about how a dental therapy program available at one community college could revolutionize the field - and your career options.
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Start Your Nursing Career in Three Months through Community College
Did you know that you could be a certified nursing assistant in just three months? Learn about programs at community colleges that can have you trained for a nursing career in just weeks.
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Get Hands-On with Physical Therapy Training
A career in physical therapy can be incredibly rewarding – and started right at your local community college. Learn more about the job roles, salary, and demand for physical therapy assistants.
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Look to Your Community College for 3 Recession-Proof Healthcare Careers
Learn about three recession-proof healthcare careers that you can pursue right from your local community college.
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How to Prepare for a Career in Electronic Health Records at Your Community College
Healthcare reforms will demand changes in healthcare facilities, including the usage of electronic health records. Learn how you can get a jump start in this field by pursuing a program at your local community college.
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See a Bright Future with an Opticianry Community College Training Program
See better job prospects and a lucrative career through opticianry training courses at your local community college. Learn about the profession and training needed to become a dispensing optician.
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Whistling All Animal Lovers! Pursuing an Animal Service Career at Community College
Learn about how courses and training at your local community college can open the doors to a fulfilling animal care and service career.
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Embrace a Caregiver Career through Community College
With the growing number of Baby Boomers reaching their golden years, the demand for caregivers is surging. Learn about a career in caregiving and how you can get your training at community college.
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Health Degrees Still a Popular Choice at Community Colleges, According to New Report
Many community college students are reaping the rewards of a healthcare career, which explains the popularity of health degrees. Learn about what a new report reveals about healthcare degrees and how it translates to the future of your career.
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How to Become an Emergency Technician Quickly and Affordably
Learn about community college programs that can help you become certified as an emergency technician affordably and expeditiously.
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Culinary Careers
With renowned culinary programs, community colleges are a delicious place to begin your culinary arts career.
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Culinary Programs at Community Colleges
Learn about highly acclaimed culinary programs at community colleges.
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Turn Your Baking Skills into a Delicious Career with Community College Programs
If you have a passion for baking, consider enrolling in a community college baking and pastry arts program. Learn about the growing field, salary potential, and the delicious courses offered right at your local community college.
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Pop the Cork in Your Bartending Career at Community College
If you are considering bartending school, take a shot first with community colleges, which offer stellar, yet expeditious, training at a very affordable cost.
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Brewing Begins at Community College: Beer Brewing Training
The microbrewing industry is growing tremendously, and now aspiring beer brewers can get the training they need starting at community college.
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5-Star Community College Hospitality Programs
Today's community college culinary and hospitality programs come with impressive training restaurants and hotels. Learn more about these five-star worthy training facilities and programs.
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How to Earn a College Degree Drinking Wine
If you enjoy wine, learn more about how you can earn a college degree in winemaking and wine tasting at your local community college.
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Learn the Art of Wine-Making at Your Local Community College
We’ll report on the new wine-making program at Walla Walla Community College in Washington, as well as programs at other community colleges nationwide.
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Culinary Arts Programs Exploding at Community Colleges
We look at an interesting new trend, as more students pursue culinary arts degrees at community colleges. Could popular television programs be fueling the interest?
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Education Careers
Start your teaching career quickly and affordably with community college training.
Creative Careers
From fashion design to radio broadcasting, a myriad of creative careers begin at community college.
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Cosmetology Programs in Community Colleges
Learn about cosmetology programs in community colleges.
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Performing Arts at Community Colleges: Best Music and Theater Programs
If you are considering musical or theatrical training, look no further than some of the top community college programs we have found. Whether you are majoring, minoring, or just dabbling in the performing arts, consider all the opportunities that exist right on campus.
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Earn Your Film Degree At Community College
Learn about how you can pursue a degree and career in the entertainment industry by starting at your local community college.
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In the Music Biz: Community College Programs in Artist Management, Concert Promotion and More
If you have a head for music and business, consider a career in the management and marketing of the music industry. Learn about how you can jumpstart a career in the music business at community colleges.
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Shoot a Creative Career with Community College Photography Programs
If capturing a moment in time calls to you, then consider developing your photography career starting at your community college. Learn about how community colleges can train and prepare you for a career in photography.
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10 Exciting Fields You Can Enter with a Two-Year Degree
In just two years, you can be trained to become a video game developer, aviation mechanic, or even emergency dispatcher. Be inspired by 10 of the most interesting and unusual fields now open to community college graduates.
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Spark a Glass Blowing Career through Community College
If mixing your creativity with beautiful glass sounds inspiring, consider starting your hobby or career in glass blowing at community college.
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A Dazzling Degree: How to Pursue Jewelry Design at Your Local Community College
Learn about the dazzling jewelry programs and certificates that are available at your local community college campus.
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Cosmetology Programs of Tomorrow: Turning Beauty into Business
Today’s cosmetology programs have a new face that includes business training. Learn about the future of cosmetology programs at community colleges.
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More than Mozart: Community College Music Programs
Learn about the new and dynamic music programs available at community colleges that explore more than just music theory.
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How to Dance Towards a College Degree
Learn about how you can pursue a rewarding dance career by starting at your local community college. Whether you are a dancer or aspire to be a choreographer, your community college may be a fantastic starting point.
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Earn a Degree in Leisure at Community College
Indeed, "leisure" is a community college major that could translate into lucrative and enjoyable career opportunities after graduation! Learn about leisure and recreation majors and innovative programs at community colleges around the country.
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10 Community College Degrees to Unleash Your Inner Artist
Express yourself! We paint a picture of the more creative community college degrees for those with a natural artistic flair.
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Career Socialites Rejoice in Event Planning Programs at Community Colleges
Learn about how you can turn your passion for parties into a career through event planning courses at your local community college.
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Studio Art Programs at Community Colleges
Learn about the excellent traditional and modern art programs available at your local community college campus.
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Fashion Careers Start at Community College Runways
Learn about how you can embark upon a fashion career starting with the fashion design, merchandising and buying courses available at local community colleges.
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From AM to FM: How Community College Can Prepare You for a Radio Career
Take advantage of career opportunities in the field of radio broadcasting by starting your training at your local community college.
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Science & Technology Careers
Indeed, science and technology careers, ranging from cyber-security to nano-technology, can all start from community college training.
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Dive into a Marine Biologist Career at Community College
Combine underwater adventures with scientific discoveries and crystal blue waters, and you may have a dream career as a marine biologist. Learn about how you can start your marine biology training right at community college!
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10 STEM Degrees You Can Earn at Your Local Community College
We highlight some of the best degrees offered by community colleges in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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How to Start Your Aquarium Science Career at Community College
If you are interested in the mysteries of the deep or marine life, consider pursuing an aquarium science career. Through innovative programs, community college students can embark upon an educational pathway in marine and aquarium based sciences.
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Thinking of Becoming a Scientist or Engineer? Consider Community College
Learn how community college can be a great start for becoming a scientist or engineer.
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Crack into Cyber-Security Training at Community Colleges
A career fighting cyber-terror and crimes can begin right at community college. Learn about the demand for cyber-security professionals and how you can obtain training at community colleges.
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The Top 15 Community Colleges for Digital Technology
Learn about which community colleges are ranked in the top 15 in the nation for their digital technology programs and infrastructure.
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Community College Students Headed to NASA
Some community college scholars have been selected by NASA to design robotic rovers. Learn about the program and some of the students selected.
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Aerospace Funding Coming to Community Colleges in Washington
Learn about a Governor’s Investment in Aerospace grant that will help 13 Washington community colleges develop training programs for the aerospace industry.
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Nuclear Industry Generates New Demand for $50,000 per Year Technicians
Consider training for a job in the growing nuclear industry, which could pay off with a starting salary of $50,000 annually.
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Get Your Feet Wet with a WaterBotics Camp at Your Local Community College
This summer, community colleges across the country have been participating in an innovative program known as “Waterbotics,” developed at the Stevens Institute of Technology by the Center for Innovation in Engineering and Science Education.
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Explore Your Options with an Associate Degree In Industrial Tech
Industrial tech is becoming modernized at community colleges around the country as schools strive to offer the most updated training for technical workers in a variety of industries.
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Peering into a Nano-Technology Career at Community College
Learn about the lucrative career opportunities in nano-technology and how you can begin your training right at community college.
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Are Community College Becoming the New Leader in STEM Education?
We review recent reports showing community colleges are placing a new emphasis on STEM education – with considerable success.
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Blast Off for Space Studies in Community College!
Learn about the space studies programs offered through community colleges that can prepare you for an engaging career with NASA or private space companies.
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Fewer Women Pursuing STEM Programs at Community College Today
A recent study shows that fewer women are going after STEM degrees at community colleges today. We’ll take a look at the research and possible reasons why the number might be dropping.
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Controlling a Career in Robotics
Community colleges are paving the way for exciting careers in robotics. Learn more about the programs that could train you to be a robotics professional.
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Public Service Careers
Regardless of the badge you carry, a honorable public service career can be jumpstarted at community college.
Manufacturing Careers
From middle to high skilled jobs, manufacturing careers can be lucrative - and all started right from the training at community college.
Lucrative Jobs
We analyze high-paying jobs that can be snagged with training just from community college.
Getting Started
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10 Great Community College Degree Programs for Introverts
We’ll explore various degree programs for shy individuals who prefer to work independently, rather than in a team environment.
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Careers After Community College
Learn about fast-growing careers and degrees community college grads are pursuing.
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7 Recession Proof Careers You can Enter with a Two-Year Degree
We highlight seven careers that boast a low unemployment rate that you can enter with an associate degree under your belt.
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Can You Retrain for a New Career in Just Weeks? Community Colleges Say Yes
In as little as three weeks, you could be retrained for a new job through community colleges. Learn about the retraining programs available and how quickly you can gain new skills.
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Kick Your Dead End Job and Find New Opportunities with a Community College Degree
For those who want to explore a career with growth potential, we introduce several high demand jobs that can be jump-started at community college.
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Theology Programs in Community College: Pursuing Studies in Religion
Learn how you can pursue your career in religion and service through theology programs available through your local community college.
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High-Growth Jobs You can Land with a Two-Year Degree in 2013
We’ll list some of the jobs you can land with a two-year degree that offer some of the greatest growth potential today.
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How the Gainful Employment Rule Pressures Community College
While intended to regulate for-profit vocational colleges, the Gainful Employment Rule may hurt public community colleges. Learn about the new Department of Education rule and how it may impact your education.
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Should You Become a Paralegal in a Recession?
Learn about the opportunities you have to become a paralegal through community college courses, and why this is a recession-proof profession.
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How to Guarantee Employment after Graduation: Skills for America's Future
Learn about the Skills for America’s Future program, which is specifically designed to create community college training programs based upon partner companies’ needs. Gap, Accenture, PG&E and others have already joined – and now they’re looking for students for their training programs.
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Community College Degrees for Midlife Career Changers
Learn about some of the most popular midlife career changers that you can launch with a community college degree.
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Dealing for Dollars: Casino Dealer Training at Community Colleges
If you are looking for a stable career, then you are in luck. Learn about the demand for casino dealers and how you can start your training right at community college.
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Recession-Proof Careers for Community College Students
Learn about several careers for community college students that are likely to weather an economic downturn.
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10 Top-Rated Careers You Can Do from Home with a Community College Degree
Would you like to work from home? We researched 10 of the best work-from-home jobs you can enjoy with a two-year degree under your belt.
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Community Colleges: Get a Job or Get Your Money Back
Education now comes with a money-back guarantee. Learn about which community college is guaranteeing that its graduates will secure jobs - or get their money back.
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Land One of the Fastest Growing Jobs with a Community College Degree
Are you looking for your career path? Consider some of the jobs boasting the fastest job growth today that only need a community college degree.
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Retraining at Community Colleges: A Status Update
President Obama has called on community colleges to retrain America, but how well have the campuses answered the call? We looked across the country for a retraining status update - and the answers are surprising.
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Break Ground on Your Property Management Career at Community College
Changes in the real estate horizon create growing opportunities for property management careers. Learn about how you can begin your property management career right at your local community college.
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Casino Training Coming to Massachusetts Community Colleges
In preparation for the newly approved industry on its way to Massachusetts, community colleges across the state are partnering with the gambling industry to provide casino training.
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Fast Track Job Training Offered to Displaced Workers through Philadelphia Community Colleges
We look at how community colleges are using federal grant funding to get displaced Philadelphia workers back to work by training them for jobs that are open and waiting in some local industries.
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President Obama Expands Skills for America's Future Program
In a bid to boost America’s global competitiveness, President Obama has increased the scope of the “Skills for America’s Future” initiative. Learn about how this impacts community colleges and the future earning potential for its students.
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New Study Finds Great Divide Between College Training and Real World
How well are community colleges training their students for the real world? Learn about a new study that finds colleges are not training their students for jobs that are actually available, leaving their students in the "great divide" between graduation and the real world.
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Note: Data has been gathered from the Dept. of Education, schools, and commercial data sources.