Gillian Sclafani, Author at UofL Online Programs

Engineering Your Future

By Gillian Sclafani | May 12, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

A Master’s degree in Engineering Management is an excellent way for engineers to enhance their technical skills while also developing a business acumen that can lead to management and leadership positions in engineering organizations. The University of Louisville’s online Masters of Engineering in Engineering Management is designed for experienced engineers who want to develop superior skills in managing engineering projects, products and services. Graduates of this program can expect to find many exciting employment opportunities and enjoy a range of outcomes in their careers.

One of the key outcomes of obtaining a Master’s degree in Engineering Management is the opportunity to pursue a leadership role in an engineering organization. The program provides students with a strong foundation in technical concepts and business practices, making them well-suited for management positions in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and technology. With a Master’s degree in Engineering Management, graduates can become engineering managers, project managers, or even chief technology officers.

Another outcome of obtaining a Master’s degree in Engineering Management is the ability to manage complex engineering projects. The program equips students with the skills to manage the technical aspects of a project while also considering the business implications. Graduates can become project managers, responsible for overseeing the planning, design, and execution of engineering projects. They can also become product managers, responsible for managing the development and launch of new products.

Employment opportunities for graduates with a Master’s degree in Engineering Management are abundant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of architectural and engineering managers is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an increasing need for the development of new products and technologies, as well as the need to improve existing products and processes.

In addition, engineering management graduates can find employment in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, construction, technology, and energy. They can work in various roles, such as project management, product management, engineering management, and technical consulting. Some of the top employers of engineering management graduates include General Electric, Lockheed Martin, and Amazon.

The salary potential for graduates with a Master’s degree in Engineering Management is also significant. According to PayScale, the average salary for an engineering manager is $114,289 per year, with salaries ranging from $78,000 to $162,000 per year. Salaries vary depending on factors such as industry, experience, and location.

In conclusion, obtaining a Master’s degree in Engineering Management is a smart choice for engineers looking to advance their careers. Graduates of this program can expect to find many exciting employment opportunities and enjoy a range of outcomes in their careers. With the right skills and experience, they can become successful leaders and managers in a variety of industries, earning a lucrative salary while contributing to the development of new products and technologies.

If you have questions about online Masters of Engineering in Engineering Management at UofL, need more information on the course structure or guidance on how to get started, feel free to contact our dedicated online enrollment counselors at 800.871.8635 or online@louisville.edu.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Learning at UofL

By Gillian Sclafani | March 21, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

The University of Louisville is proud to offer over 60+ degree programs completely online. The programs range from bachelor completion degrees, to master’s programs, a doctoral program, and a vast array of certificate options. One of the many benefits of pursuing a degree at the University of Louisville is the ability to take classes via a synchronous or asynchronous format.
What is Synchronous Learning?
Synchronous learning refers to instructors and students meeting at the same time (either in person or virtually) and place for the duration of the course. Synchronous learning is taught by professors, in person, or live via a virtual classroom. Teachers and students can interact with each other during the set period of weekly classes and are expected to be in attendance during the specific course day and time.
Benefits of Synchronous Learning
• Students get instant feedback and clarification from instructors.
• There are real-time discussions with classmates and instructors.
• This type of learning is a good fit for students who need structure.
What is Asynchronous Learning?
Asynchronous learning refers to students accessing coursework and materials during a time that is most convenient for them. For example, a student taking a course in biochemistry within an asynchronous format would have the ability to access their coursework any time of the day or night, at a time that best works with their schedule. There are no time-specific lectures and students are not bound to be on their computers during a specific time in an asynchronous format. Students have the flexibility to take courses at their own pace.
Benefits of Asynchronous Learning:
• This option is especially appealing to busy adults with other obligations, such as family or work restraints.
• With asynchronous learning students can learn at their own pace, therefore adapting the courses and materials to their specific needs and learning styles. This is helpful as it allows students the opportunity to move through the coursework at their own pace, by either taking longer to learn and retain the information or potentially moving faster through the information and finishing the coursework at a faster pace.
• Accessibility to a wide and diverse group of students – by offering asynchronous courses in many of UofL’s online programs, we can reach a wider range of students from various backgrounds and professions. This will in turn help to develop a more diverse population of students within a specific program, therefore, growing our student’s professional network connections around the US and potentially the world.
While there are advantages to both synchronous and asynchronous learning formats, understanding the differences between the two can help guide students toward their academic journey. Understanding your learning style and time commitments can help identify the best course of action when determining whether synchronous or asynchronous learning is the best for you. No matter where you are in the pursuit of your degree, UofL online is here to help. If you have questions about a particular major, need more information on the course structure or guidance on how to get started, feel free to contact our dedicated online enrollment counselors at 800.871.8635 or online@louisville.edu. For a complete list of program offerings, click here.

Bachelor of Art vs. Bachelor of Science in Communications at UofL Online

By Gillian Sclafani | January 31, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

The University of Louisville’s Online Learning division offers prospective students the opportunity to earn their bachelor’s degree in Communications. Offered as a BA or BS, both communication degrees are effective in preparing online students for a wide range of career opportunities. However, deciding which degree path to pursue can be a personal choice based on your individual career goals.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) focuses on the overall enhancement of oral and written communication skills, as well as developing your understanding of how we as humans communicate with one another, combined with courses in liberal arts and a variety of additional elective options. The (BS) in Communications deepens your knowledge of skills in such areas as copywriting, public speaking and focuses more on a student’s targeted career path within the communications field.

Highlighted below is a breakdown of the two communication degree options offered at UofL, along with career outcomes and potential internship opportunities.

Bachelor of Arts in Communication:

The BA in Communication is offered in a 121 credit-hour format. The BA requires 18 hours in core communication disciplines and 18 hours in communication electives, focusing on delivering a wider breath of knowledge in areas like foreign language and liberal arts. Students interested in pursuing their BA in communications gain a broader understanding of how we communicate with one another with additional core requirements in a foreign language and other social science areas (such as sociology, psychology or women’s, gender and sexuality studies).

Graduates from the B.A. in Communication have a broader understanding of the communication field as a whole and the option to pursue multiple career paths. Some options of potential career opportunities for graduate from this degree include; TV and cable companies, radio stations, advertising agencies, news organizations, print publishing companies, event firms and many more.

Bachelor of Science in Communication:

The BS in Communication is offered in a 121 credit-hour format as well. However, the BS option requires 27 hours in core communication disciplines and 21 hours in communication electives. This degree option focuses more on applied communication with core requirements in areas like copywriting, newswriting, public speaking, debate and more. In addition to a more targeted track option within the communication field of study, students are also required to complete an internship (3 credits) in order to graduate. By requiring a mandatory internship, students will gain hands-on experience within their chosen field of interest. Along with the internship requirement, additional core communication courses are required in the following classes:

Comm 302 – Advanced Speech Communication or 319 Debate (3 credits) – Advanced principals of public speaking
Comm 320, 323, or 344 (3 credits) – Study and practice of news-writing and reporting techniques for routine news stories, including story organization, writing story leads, and the elements of hard news and feature journalism.

The University’s communication and advising departments work with online students in the BS Communications track to find internships that are best suited for their professional goals. Several examples of current internship opportunities for communication majors include:

Emma Bowen Foundation – The Emma Bowen Foundation promotes a more diverse industry by recruiting promising students of color and placing them in multi-year paid summer internships at some of the nation’s leading media and tech companies, such as FOX Television Stations, Hearst Television, The Financial Times, NFL, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Whether you’re interested in being a producer, a journalist, a web developer, an engineer, a business executive, a PR agent, a sales representative, or any other career in media or tech, the EBF Internship is here to help you get your start.

Sports Radio America – SRA is seeking a Sports Writer intern. The intern will work under the supervision of the Managing Editor. Provide game notes, reports, and recaps for the university attendees. If accessible, provide news and insights to high school sports in the surrounding area. If approved for media credentials by the Sports Information Department, cover post-game press conferences, provide pictures, videos, and sounds from games covered.

Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana – Assist the team with the planning of fundraising events, stewardship of donors, and administrative support of fundraisers including Walk for Wishes, Gala and many more.

Signature Inspire Foundation – Social Media Intern to manage the social media of Signature Inspire Foundation. Utilizing all social media platforms to support Signature Inspire Foundation’s programs & services and increase awareness of the foundation.

For a complete list of available internship opportunities for communication majors, click here.

Earning a degree in communication opens the doors to ample career opportunities. No matter which communications degree path you choose, a BS or a BA, the expertise you develop in analyzing and implementing communication methods will afford graduates the opportunity to increase their portfolio within the communications field.

Our graduates go on to succeed in a variety of careers—from producer to technical writer to HR manager to podcast personality and so much more. Many career paths chosen by communication graduates increase their annual salary as well. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, if you chose a career as an editor, the median annual salary is $63,400. Or an advertising or marketing manager with minimum requirement of a bachelor’s degree, the median annual salary is $141,490 with the expected growth rate in the U.S. to be an above average 6% between 2019 and 2029 (bls.gov).

No matter where you are in your pursuit of your degree, the University of Louisville’s Online Learning department is here to help you succeed. With three application deadline options, rolling admissions and three term start dates – the options for incoming or transferring students are plentiful. To begin or continue your degree in this field – start your application today, by clicking here. For a complete list of all programs offered online, view the program finder for more information.

An Inclusive Education for All – Resources and Programs for Online Students

By Gillian Sclafani | January 11, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

The University of Louisville takes pride in offering over 50 degree and certificate options, 100% online. With online bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs across various industries and disciplines, our students can achieve their educational and professional goals with the flexibility to learn and study at a time that is most convenient for them.

In addition to the wide array of degree options and the flexibility of online course work, UofL also prides itself on providing an inclusive, diverse learning environment for our online community. Whether you are returning to school to complete your degree or taking your first college course, we want to make sure you have the tools and resources necessary to succeed in a diverse and ever-changing landscape. Some of the many benefits available to our on-campus and online students include:

The Office of Diversity and Equity – The Office of Diversity and Equity offers a wide array of departments and programs to make sure all voices are understood, heard, and appreciated. The goal of this office is to foster and sustain an educational community that offers a nurturing and challenging intellectual climate, respect for the spectrum of human diversity and an understanding of the many differences – including race, ethnicity, gender, socio-economic status, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, and religion. Some of the departments and programs available for our students include:

Arts & Sciences International, Diversity and Engagement Programs – The Office of Diversity, Engagement, Culture & Climate (DECC) supports the College of Arts and Sciences in its effort to transform the teaching, learning, and working environment into one of full inclusion and equity for all. The DECC Student Council offers various series and forums to the UofL community on topics including the Yearlings Club Series, West Louisville Economic Development Forum, and the Louisville Downtown Civil Rights Markers Project. Students interested in becoming a member of the DECC Student Council are encouraged to contact Cherie Dawson at dawson@louisville.edu.

Disability Resource Center – In recognition of those with a disability as an important part of the diverse community at UofL, the Disability Resource Center fosters an inclusive environment through education, service, collaboration, and outreach. The Center provides support services for students with a documented disability and promotes equal access to all programs and services.

Health Sciences Center Office of Diversity and Inclusion (HSC) – The HSC Office of Diversity and Inclusion offers a wide array of educational and programmatic resources including Diversity Lunch & Learns, Poverty Simulation, Everyday Bias Workshop for the Health Professions, Culturally Effective Care Resources, 2022 LGBTQ+ and Cancer CARE SCHO Invitation, and much more. Students interested in learning more can contact the HSC Office for Diversity and Inclusion at HSCODI@louisville.edu.

Office of Admissions-Diversity Recruitment – The mission of the Office of Admissions-Diversity Recruitment is to foster an environment that reflects the spectrum of human differences, so that all students can grow, develop and immerse themselves in a diverse and ever-changing society. Some of the many benefits offered by the Office of Admissions-Diversity Recruitment include scholarship opportunities, such as the Brown Fellows Program, Grawemeyer Scholarship, McConnell Scholars, Martin Luther King Scholars Program, and the Woodford R. Porter Scholarship. For more information on the scholarship opportunities available through the Office of Admissions-Diversity Recruitment, students are encouraged to contact the Office of Admissions at admitme@louisvill.edu. Please note, some of the scholarships listed above are offered for traditional on-campus students only.

PEACC Program – PEACC provides confidential advocacy for students, faculty and staff who have been impacted by interpersonal violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The PEACC program also provides prevention education courses and programs available to the UofL community. In addition, PEACC also offers events through the GREEN DOT organization including – yoga, pizza, scavenger hunts, and more.

TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) – The TRIO SSS is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and the University of Louisville. TRIO is committed to helping low-income, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities, achieve a bachelor’s degree. The program’s mission is to increase retention and graduation rates by offering academic, financial, and support services. During the academic year, TRIO students receive individual and group advising to foster positive study habits and academic success. Some of the benefits of joining TRIO include study skills development, academic workshops, one-on-one tutoring, and much more. For more information on the TRIO SSS or ways to apply; interested students are encouraged to complete the application here.

Center for Military-Connected Students – The goal of the Center for Military-Connected Students is to assist military-connected students in a successful transition into and out of the Cardinal community through a culture of engagement and inclusion. This is provided through individualized support to our Veteran students and their families. In addition to the vast number of transitional services, UofL Online also offers a discounted tuition rate for Active-Duty service members and members of the Coast Guard. For more information on tuition discounts and services provided, students are encouraged to contact the Center for Military-Connected Students by clicking here.

In addition to the many programs and offices available for students interested in expanding their knowledge and immersing themselves in an inclusive and diverse environment at UofL, the campus recently opened the Cultural & Equity Center. The Center includes the Office of Diversity Education and Inclusive Excellence, the LGBT Center at UofL, the Muhammad Ali Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of Louisville, and the Women’s Center. While these offices are housed on campus, online students are encouraged to reach out to join or become a member virtually.

Along with the many opportunities afforded to students from diverse backgrounds, UofL also earned five out of five stars in the Campus Pride Index. Campus Pride is a national nonprofit that rates colleges and universities according to their support of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues. The Campus Pride Index is a vital tool in assisting campuses in learning ways to improve their LGBTQ+ campus life. Additionally, UofL is the only public institution in the south to be recognized by this organization.

Whether you are starting your educational journey in 2023 or looking to complete your degree at UofL Online, we want to make sure you have every resource available for a successful and inclusive journey. For more information on the offices and programs available, students are welcome to contact the Office of Diversity & Equity at diversity@louisville.edu or the Online Learning Office at online@louisville.edu. For a complete list of all resources available for our online student learning community, click here.

Author: Gillian Sclafani