Category: Online Student Resources

Finding a new path: How the Master of Arts in Teaching can help you transition into a teaching career

Finding a new path: How the Master of Arts in Teaching can help you transition into a teaching career

Do you dream of being an educator and making a lasting impact in the lives of students, but have been held back by your unrelated undergraduate degree? The good news is that your dream of becoming a teacher is still very much within reach. Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) programs offer a transformative path for those seeking a career change, enabling you to transition into the world of education and inspire future generations. In this post, we will explore how MAT programs at UofL (like our 100% online  Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education and Special Education programs) are breaking barriers for those with undergraduate degrees in unrelated fields. 

Opening doors to a new career 

First, it’s okay that your undergraduate degree isn’t in a teaching field—you’re in good company here! MAT programs are tailored for individuals with diverse academic backgrounds, providing the essential training and coursework typically needed to receive an initial teaching certification. A teaching certification is your ticket to the classroom, and it can lead to a variety of teaching opportunities in both public and private schools. Programs like ours recognize the drive and new energy that career changers bring to the field of education and ensure they have the tools to succeed. 

Note: An MAT program should be designed to ensure that you meet the requirements to teach in your state. As a prospective educator, you should do your homework to make sure any program you’re interested in will meet the licensure requirements of your state. 

Building your skills 

You’ll study topics like classroom management, curriculum development and educational psychology, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the art and science of teaching. This foundational knowledge is invaluable when transitioning from other professions into the classroom. 

Hands-on experience 

An emphasis on practical classroom experience is a hallmark of MAT programs; this hands-on experience is invaluable, as it prepares you for the real-world challenges you may face while teaching. You’ll have the opportunity to observe, practice, and hone your teaching skills under the guidance of experienced educators. 

Do you want to be in a classroom now? A defining feature of the MAT programs available at UofL is the alternative certification or “alt cert” pathway. The alt cert pathway enables you to immediately seek full-time employment as an early childhood or special education educator in the state of Kentucky. While you must complete the MAT program to receive your master’s degree and your initial teaching certification, once admitted as an alt cert student, you will be granted a temporary, provisional certification allowing you to get started on your new career right away! Specialize in what matters most to you 

MAT programs often offer specialization opportunities, allowing you to focus on the grade level or subject area that inspires you the most. We offer two MAT programs 100% online; Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Within the Special Education degree, students can select a specialization of Learning and Behavior Disorders (LBD) and Moderate to Severe Disabilities (MSD) 

Inspiring life-long learning in others 

For those who aspire to be educators, MAT programs represent the beginning of a commitment to lifelong learning. Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing a love for learning. An MAT program equips you with the tools to inspire your students, encourage their curiosity, and support their intellectual and emotional growth. 

Choosing to pursue a MAT program is a decision that holds great promise for both your career and the students you’ll impact. With deeper pedagogical knowledge, specialized expertise, and a commitment to lifelong learning, you’ll be well-prepared to inspire the next generation of learners.  

The Summer 202 application deadline for both of our online MAT programs is May 1. If you’re passionate about education and making a difference, the MAT program is your gateway to a fulfilling and transformative career as an educator–don’t wait! 

New Online Learning Opportunity at UofL: the Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Quality and Project Management

New Online Learning Opportunity at UofL: the Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Quality and Project Management

We at the University of Louisville (UofL) are thrilled to announce the launch of our latest online program, the Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Quality and Project Management! Offered by UofL’s School of Public Health and Information Sciences (SPHIS), this graduate-level certificate program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic and evolving field of healthcare strategic management, in both small and large-scale settings. 

The healthcare industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with a growing emphasis on quality, efficiency and patient-centered care. Professionals in this field are expected to possess a diverse skill set, including expertise in healthcare management and project management. This graduate certificate is designed to empower healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills required to excel in these areas. 

Why should you earn this certificate online at UofL? 

  • Comprehensive curriculum: Our program covers a wide range of topics, including healthcare quality and strategic management, project management, population health, quantitative methods and more.  
  • Expert faculty: Learn from experienced faculty members who bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience in healthcare management and project management to the virtual classroom. 
  • Flexibility: We understand that working professionals have demanding schedules; our fully online format allows you to better balance your work, personal life and education. 
  • Practical applications: The program emphasizes real-world applications, enabling students to immediately apply their knowledge and skills in their professional roles. 
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with a diverse group of fellow students, creating a valuable network for future collaboration and career growth. 

Ready to take the next step? 

We are now accepting applications for the Healthcare Quality and Project Management graduate certificate program. Visit our website to learn more about the program, admission requirements, and how to apply. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your healthcare career to new heights. 

Did you know? The original School of Public Health at University of Louisville was open from 1919-1923, making it one of the nation’s first public health schools. UofL’s School of Public Health and Information Sciences or offers a variety of programs to launch your journey in the dynamic field of public health—many of which are available 100% online!

 

UofL Online Launches New Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Financial Management!

UofL Online Launches New Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Financial Management!

We are proud to announce the launch of our newest online program, the Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Financial Management!  

This 100% online, asynchronous certificate is designed for individuals working in or looking to pursue positions in the financial healthcare sector by expanding their financial and administrative background, which will better prepare these individuals for leadership-level career growth.   

After completing this certificate, students will have a solid foundation in key areas such as hospital finances, budgeting, budget management, financial decision-making, and more as it relates to hospital, insurance and general healthcare settings. These skills are applicable and scalable to institutions as small as private practices or as large a healthcare network as UofL Health. Students will similarly be better prepared for leadership and administrative roles within their organizations.   

All that hard work will pay off too—literally. Substantial career growth is expected for the healthcare sector over the next decade, with growth projected to occur much faster than average for all occupations (bls.gov). Due to both employment growth and the need to replace people who leave these positions, about 1.8 million job openings are projected each year (bls.gov). While part of this growth refers to clinicians and medical personnel needed to fill these roles, a large percentage of that growth includes the administrative roles needed to accommodate and service the business needs of these growing institutions.   

The best part? This graduate certificate can be completed 100% online from the comfort of home, without the time-commitment of a full graduate program.  

So don’t wait! Click the link here and prepare to take your career in finances to the next level in the ever-growing healthcare space!  


Get Involved Virtually at UofL

Get Involved Virtually at UofL

Getting involved at the University of Louisville as an online student can be a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with your peers, faculty and the campus community. Whether you are taking classes completely online or via a hybrid structure (partly in-person and partly online), there are no shortages of ways to get involved; after all we are all part of one Cardinal family! 

While some of the clubs and organizations offer in-person meetings, many allow students to join in the fun virtually. Check out this list of the top 9 ways to get involved as a UofL Online student: 

  1. Clubs and Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) – UofL hosts over 400 organizations that cover a wide variety of student interests.  The lists of clubs vary greatly from the African American Female Initiative to the Biomedical Engineering Society to the Louisville Cinema Society. While some of the clubs meet regularly on campus, many offer students a virtual option for involvement.  For a complete list of student organizations and ways to join, click here.  
  2. Cultural Center – The vision of the Cultural Center is to offer an inclusive and accepting campus climate free of bias and hate where students, faculty, staff, and alumni work together to create positive change in the community.  The Cultural Center offers both in-person and virtual programs to help our students work together to create a positive change in the community. Some events offered by the Cultural Center include: 
    • September -Celebrating Latinidad 
    • October – Celebrating Pride
    • November – Celebrating Indigenous Heritage
    • January – Celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.
    • February – Celebrating Black History Month
    • March – Celebrating Women, Femmes and Non-Binary People
    • April – Celebrating AAPI History
  3. Disability Resource Center– In recognition of disability as an important part of the diversity of our community, the Disability Resource Center fosters an inclusive campus climate through education, service, collaboration, and outreach to the University of Louisville community.  The center provides support for students with documented disabilities by promoting equal access to all programs and services. Some of the online programs available to virtual and in-person students include the Disability Advocacy Online Training, Disability Awareness Panel as well as a list of a list of Disability Allies whom students can reach out to.  For a complete list of students and staff who participate in the Disability Ally Program, click here.  
  4. International Center – The mission of the International Center is to promote and enhance the University’s goals by creating a community that appreciates global interdependence. The overarching goal of the International Center is to increase the number of international students at all academic levels; expand the number of students participating in study abroad programs; facilitate graduate student and faculty international research and travel; and provide quality services in support of these and other international initiatives. If you are interested in studying abroad, even while being an online student, the International Center is a great place to start to learn about the various programs and offerings.  For a list of FAQs and information on how to start the study abroad process, click here.  
  5. LGBT Center  – The University of Louisville LGBT Center is committed to dismantling CIS-heteropatriarchy and other systems of oppression. The Center strives to affirm LGBTQ+ students, staff and faculty through an anti-racist lens, rooted in social justice and intersectionality. Some of the programs and groups for students interested in joining include the Aros and Aces group, the Cardinal Drag Haus, the Fellowship of Christian Queers and much more.  To learn more about the LGBT Center and their various offerings for involvement, click here.  
  6. Women’s Center – Established in 1991, the Women’s Center serves as a resource on women’s issues and works to promote an atmosphere of diversity for students, faculty, staff, and the community. The Women’s Center assists the University in achieving its goals by implementing programs that enhance, support, and empower women on campus and online.  The Center and its programs are open to all students without regard to gender.   
  7. Career Service Centers – The University of Louisville offers a broad array of career services through several offices on campus.  Whether you are a current student, alumni, or staff member, the Career Services Center offers resources to enhance career opportunities and programs designed to prepare everyone to make the transition from college to their careers.  The four Career Centers to help our students find employment post-graduation include: 

While the Career Service Center offices are housed on campus, they also offer virtual workshops, virtual interview prep videos, resume writing seminars, cover letter critique virtual sessions and much more. For a complete list of all online workshops and offerings, click here.  

8. Office of Student Involvement – The Office of Student Involvement at the University of Louisville provides activities and services for the campus community. Through various boards, committees, cultural, social, and recreational programs, aiming to make the out-of-class experience a part of the total educational process while advancing the institutional mission. While some of the programs offered by the Office of Student Involvement happen on campus, there is a wide variety of options for the virtual student. These include: 

  • Virtual volunteering – volunteering virtually is a great way to give back to the campus community, even if you are not living on campus.  A great resource for students  Virtual classes – the Office of Student Involvement offers several virtual classes for students to watch from anywhere in the world.  These classes include Lunch Doodles with Mo Willems, Planet Fitness Classes, Mindful Meditation classes, and even virtual cooking classes. For more information on the virtual class offerings, click here.  
  • Virtual travel opportunities – do you have the travel bug, but lack the means to take the plunge? The Office of Student Involvement offers several virtual travel opportunities including a trip to Ellis Island, Colonial Williamsburg and even the Great Wall of China. For more information on the virtual travel offerings, click here.

9. Can’t seem to find what you are looking for in the list above? Create something yourself! UofL provides all students, staff, and faculty free access to video conferencing with Microsoft Teams. This tool is used as a great way to “meet” up with friends and classmates virtually. For tips and more information on using teams for the first time, click here.  

No matter where you are on the journey to complete your degree, the University of Louisville wants to make sure you never feel alone. Our resources are available to all students in the hopes that you get involved – whether you are on-campus or remote. We can’t wait to see what you get involved with!