CAREER SERVICES GUIDE 1
[There is] genuine care and concern the people that work for this university have for those of us pursuing our degree. 2
Nursing Introduction4 Online Alumni Network 8 11 Health Business 18 For More Information TABLE OF CONTENTS 6 28 3
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR FUTURE WITH BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY S CAREER GUIDE Benedictine s comprehensive suite of online degree and certificate programs leads to a variety of potential career paths. Our undergraduate and graduate programs can give you the knowledge and credentials employers are looking for when evaluating candidates for promotions and new positions. This guide provides an overview of the current trends and professional opportunities in several fields to help you get a better sense of the professional landscape in your area of interest and help you start planning your future. 4
BENEDICTINE AT A GLANCE TOTAL ACTIVE ALUMNI 31,125 TOTAL STUDENTS ACROSS THE GLOBE 10,058 NUMBER OF STATES/FOREIGN COUNTRIES REPRESENTED 50 /16 5
ONLINE ALUMNI As a student at Benedictine University, you will have access to our extensive network of alumni. We have campuses in Illinois, Arizona, China, Vietnam and online with over 10,000 students currently enrolled. We have students and graduates from all 50 states and over 16 countries - your networking opportunity is endless! 15 15 6 4 5 10 72 13 29 51 17 887 43 118 9 69 49 5 27 12 127 12 111 13 31 40 40 17 27 64 8 19 30 5 6 13 6 92 33 33 38 14 4 19 27 18 46
ONLINE ALUMNI WHERE THEY WORK WHAT THEY DO * * Advocate Health Care 94 Education 1,897 Walgreens 75 Health Care Services 1,850 Alcatel-Lucent 57 Sales 1,650 McDonald s Corporation 51 Operations 1,544 BP 50 Finance 1,050 AT&T 46 Human Resources 893 Navistar Inc. 43 Information Tehcnology 871 Chicago Public Schools 43 Consulting 836 University of Illinois at Chicago 40 Entrepreneurship 828 Molex 39 Support 792 College of DuPage 36 Administrative 756 Memorial Medical Center 35 Program and Project Management 693 JPMorgan Chase & Co. 34 Community and Social Services 688 *https://www.linkedin.com/edu/school 7
Benedictine is committed to helping support you in achieving your career goals from your first class throughout your time as an alumni. We offer extensive resources to help you find new opportunities and communicate new skills and credentials to potential employers. SERVICES INCLUDE: Resume and cover letter reviews Mock interviews Career assessments Job search assistance Access to the Virtual Career Center CAREER SERVICES Skype office hours with career counselors Virtual events such as online networking and career webinars 8
NURSING INDUSTRY Health care is moving and changing quickly, and nurses are at the forefront of those shifts. Here are a few major trends that nurse leaders should be aware of they can help you identify the best online nursing program and career path for you. 9
NURSING INDUSTRY AN AGING U.S. SOCIETY According to the U.S. Census Bureau, adults over 85 are the fastest growing age group in this country, and by 2020 over 20 percent of the population will be over 65. As they age, they will require more health care services. Nurses will need to be wellversed in gerontological issues, such as healthy aging, long-term or in-home care, and end-of-life planning. PREVENTATIVE CARE Health care organizations and insurers recognize the importance of preventing costly medical issues before they arise. Greater awareness of nutrition and wellness, physical fitness and mental health is changing the outlook and work of nurses. EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY It s a fact of modern life: technology is constantly changing and advancing. Nurses must adapt to new systems and tools that support patient care plans, outcomes and decision-making. MORE COLLABORATION As health care grows more complex, nurses must communicate and work with other health care professionals as well as specialists such as therapists, social workers and pharmacists to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients. EXPLORE HOW BENEDICTINE S ONLINE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING (M.S.N.) HELPS NURSES PREPARE TO FACE NEW CHALLENGES IN THE FIELD. LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY WITH PATIENTS AND COLLEAGUES. GREATER ACCESS TO NURSING EDUCATION One way to help alleviate the shortage of nurses is by educating new ones through online programs. While these have been available for a while, there are more options, more specializations and more flexibility than ever before, making it easier for busy working nurses to augment their education and prepare for high-level roles. 10
NURSING INDUSTRY TOP JOBS FOR M.S.N. PREPARED NURSES High-level nursing jobs increasingly require the specialized skills that can be acquired in a Master of Science in Nursing program. The opportunities are limitless for nurses seeking advancement within leadership and education. Here are a few examples of potential positions for nurses with an advanced degree. NURSE MANAGER Nurse managers oversee human resources and finances for a department or facility. They are also tasked with instituting practices and policies that encourage high-quality care and employee engagement. DIRECTOR OF NURSING These nurses are the face of the nursing unit or facility. They work with fellow administrators to strategically organize resources and budgets, collaborate with other health care professionals to coordinate patient care and act as representatives of the unit both internally and externally. NURSE CASE MANAGERS Nurse case managers work one-on-one with patients to monitor and assess their care. They may act as an advocate for their patients, but they may also be charged with finding cost-efficient solutions. NURSE EDUCATORS BENEDICTINE S HOME STATE OF ILLINOIS IS HOME TO 39 MAGNET HOSPITALS MORE THAN ANY OTHER STATE. These educators use their clinical expertise and instructional training to design and run continuing education programs and classes for nurses. They may teach in traditional colleges and universities, nursing schools or in health care organizations and facilities. CHIEF NURSING OFFICERS These executives are responsible for ensuring that standards for patient care, clinical treatment/practices and employees are met. They may also provide input on strategy and decision-making as part of the organization s board of directors. 11
HEALTH INDUSTRY 12
HEALTH INDUSTRY PUBLIC HEALTH The Council on Linkages Between Academia and Public Health Practice identified and adopted a set of foundational skills for public health professionals. These competencies spell out expectations for public health practice and are used to guide development and evaluation in the field. They include: Qualitative and quantitative assessment skills Policy development/program planning Communication Cultural competency Community dimensions of practice Public health sciences skills Financial planning and management Leadership and systems thinking Benedictine s online Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) program is designed to help students develop these abilities and prepare them to positively impact the health of communities around the world. READ ABOUT THE MAJOR ISSUES FACING PUBLIC HEALTH TODAY. ACCREDITED BY THE COUNCIL ON EDUCATION FOR PUBLIC HEALTH (CEPH). 13
HEALTH INDUSTRY TOP 10 JOBS FOR M.P.H. GRADUATES A Master of Public Health degree can open new career doors. A fast-growing health care industry and changing government legislation feed the need for public health professionals with advanced skills. Here are some of the top jobs available to M.P.H.-prepared public health workers. 1 1 HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATOR These professionals direct and coordinate the delivery of health care and medical services. They may also manage finances, recordkeeping and communications with medical staff, and work to improve quality and efficiency. COMMON TITLES: Resident care director Clinic manager Director of case management Care coordinator Laboratory manager JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +23% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $88,580 2 PHARMACIST Pharmacists dispense prescription medications and provide recommendations on how to use them safely. They also may provide advice on wellness activities, immunizations and health screenings and oversee the delivery of medications to patients. JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +14% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $116,670 COMMON TITLES: Pharmacist Pharmacy technician 14
HEALTH INDUSTRY 3 MEDICAL AND CLINICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGISTS 4 RESPIRATORY THERAPIST Lab technologists collect and test samples to analyze body fluids, tissue and other substances. Respiratory therapists provide care to patients who experience difficulty breathing. They may also work with patients experiencing chronic respiratory disease such as asthma COMMON TITLES: Medical technologist Biological technicians Chemical technicians Chemists Veterinary technicians JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +22% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $57,580 or emphysema. JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +19% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $57,870 COMMON TITLES: Respiratory therapist Respiratory technician Respiratory specialist 5 HEALTH EDUCATOR Health educators create programs to teach people and motivate them to follow healthy behaviors. They may work with individual patients and families in a health care setting, or develop campaigns and materials for larger groups like college students. They may also organize events like health screenings and incentive programs. 6 BIOSTATISTICIAN Biostatisticians conduct statistical analyses of health and biology-related data for use by pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and public health organizations. JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +21% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $55,240 COMMON TITLES: Nutritionist Dietitian Clinical dietitian Registered dietitian COMMON TITLES: Associate director of biostatistics Bioinformatician Bioinformatics analyst Principal biostatistician Senior biostatistician JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +27% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $92,961 15
HEALTH INDUSTRY 7 SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE MANAGER 8 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR Social services managers coordinate and lead social service programs and community organizations. They also direct and provide leadership to staff members at these organizations. These disaster response professionals plan and develop procedures to respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. They also collaborate with public officials and other response agencies to coordinate the response during and COMMON TITLES: Health educator Community health worker Rehabilitation counselor Human service assistant Substance abuse and behavior counselor JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +21% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $59,970 after a disaster. Prevent or treat problems or reduce risks. JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +8% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $59,770 COMMON TITLES: Emergency room technician Emergency department technician 9 SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE MANAGER Social services managers coordinate and lead social service 10 EPIDEMIOLOGIST Epidemiologists collect information and investigate diseases, programs and community organizations. They also direct and infections or other health problems that appear in a community. provide leadership to staff members at these organizations. They also analyze data gathered from surveys, interviews, observations or samples, report findings, and advise on ways to JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +21% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $59,970 COMMON TITLES: Medical technologist Biological technicians Chemical technicians Chemists Veterinary technicians prevent or treat problems or reduce risks. COMMON TITLES: Public health epidemiologist Senior epidemiologist Infectious disease specialist Infection control practitioner Epidemiologist JOB OUTLOOK (2012-2022) +27% MEDIAN ANNUAL SALARY $92,961 1 All facts and figures from data.bls.gov. 16
HEALTH INDUSTRY NUTRITION GROW YOUR CAREER IN A GROWING FIELD As the health care industry grapples with rising rates of obesity, diabetes and other diet-related issues, health care organizations are beginning to see the value of prevention through increased awareness and healthy eating habits. Here s a snapshot of the career outlook and opportunities in this developing area of the health industry: 2 EMPLOYED OR SELF-EMPLOYED ACROSS A VARIETY OF PRIMARY PRACTICE AREAS: PRACTICE AREA OF PRIMARY POSITION RDs DTRs Clinical nutrition acute care/inpatient 32% 44% Clinical nutrition ambulatory care 17% 1% Clinical nutrition long term care 8% 13% Community 11% 11% Food and nutrition management 12% 19% Consultation and business 8% 2% Education and research 6% 2% THE HIGHEST-PAYING NON-ACADEMIC POSITIONS HELD BY SUBSTANTIAL NUMBERS OF RDS INCLUDE: MEDIAN HOURLY RANGE MEDIAN TOTAL CASH THE BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS ESTIMATES EMPLOYMENT OF NUTRITIONISTS AND DIETITIANS TO GROW 21 PERCENT BETWEEN 2012 AND 2022. 1 Executive-level Professional $44.23 $97,500 Director of Food and Nutrition Services $36.06 $75,000 Director of Clinical Nutrition $36.06 $75,000 Sales Representative $36.06 $93,500 Clinical Nutrition Manager $33.65 $72,000 Director of Nutrition $33.53 $69,800 School Foodservice Director $31.87 $69,000 Corporate Dietitian $31.25 $65,500 Home Care Dietitian $31.09 $65,100 Assistant Foodservice Director $30.29 $66,000 17
HEALTH INDUSTRY RD HOURLY WAGE BY EDUCATION (HIGHEST DEGREE HELD, ANY MAJOR) $ 50.00 $ 45.00 $ 40.00 $ 35.00 $ 30.00 $ 25.00 $ 20.00 All RDs Bachelor s Master s Doctorate HIGHEST DEGREE (ANY MAJOR) # 25TH PERCENTILES 50TH 75TH All RDs 6,048 $24.04 $28.85 $34.86 Bachelor s 2,989 $23.37 $27.68 $33.12 Master s 2,841 $24.72 $29.57 $36.06 Doctorate 216 $28.85 $36.06 $45.83 1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition, Dietitians and Nutritionists, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/health care/dietitians-and-nutritionists.htm 2 Charts from the Compensation & Benefits Survey of the Dietetics Profession 2013, American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 18
HEALTH INDUSTRY TOP JOBS FOR NUTRITION GRADUATE PROGRAM ALUMNI Nutrition is a rapidly evolving field of health care that offers plenty of career opportunities. From education to research, from the corporate world to nonprofits, there is a role that is right for you. NUTRITION EDUCATORS Nutrition educators work in schools, public health organizations, government agencies, businesses and other settings to develop programs to educate specific populations about healthy eating and general wellness practices. DIRECTORS OF FOOD AND NUTRITION These nutrition experts are responsible for managing and overseeing the purchase and preparation of food and meals for patients and clients. HOME CARE DIETITIANS Home care dietitians teach patients and clients how to organize grocery lists and a weekly meal plan as well as how to shop for and prepare healthy foods in their homes. DISCOVER HOW NUTRITIONISTS ARE LEVERAGING NEW TECHNOLOGY TO SUPPORT PATIENTS AND CLIENTS IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH. NUTRITIONAL COUNSELORS These counselors may do many of the same things as dietitians, but may also integrate holistic concepts into their practice such as alternative therapies, fitness advice and stress relief. COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS Community health workers collect and analyze data related to community health issues and provide educational programs to mitigate or prevent disease and injury. 19
HEALTH INDUSTRY CONSULTANTS Nutrition consultants work independently in their own business. They may specialize in a specific issue, such as weight management, food allergies/ sensitivities or eating disorders. CLINICAL OR COMMUNITY REGISTERED DIETITIANS RDs working in clinical and community settings design and oversee customized meal plans for patients based on their specific health needs. They may specialize in certain patient populations, such as those with diabetes, eating disorders or high blood pressure. HEALTH EDUCATORS Health educators provide instructional programs about habits and behaviors that promote wellness. They may discuss nutrition in concert with exercise, stress reduction and injury prevention. RESEARCH COORDINATORS These professionals work with volunteer subjects to test new medications, procedures or supplements. They may interview and assess potential participants, and organize the research study to ensure it meets all legal and clinical requirements and guidelines. CORPORATE WELLNESS PROGRAM DIRECTORS Nutritionists working in the corporate environment plan events and educational initiatives for a company s workforce. They may provide informational sessions about wellness and health care benefits, make sure employees know about resources available to improve their health and identify specific wellness needs at the company. 20
BUSINESS INDUSTRY 21
MBA BUSINESS INDUSTRY TOP SKILLS BUSINESS EMPLOYERS ARE SEEKING Today s employers are looking for specific skills in candidates, and they re not necessarily the ones you would imagine. Technical knowledge may not be enough to set you apart anymore businesses across industries are now placing a higher value on interpersonal, communication and leadership skills. According to a recent survey,* the top skills employers seek in candidates are: Oral communication Listening abilities Written communication Presentation skills Adaptability Quantitative analysis skills Drive Ability to value the opinions of others Ability to follow a leader Core business knowledge Ability to inspire others Negotiation skills Integrity *From 2014 GMAC corporate recruiters survey CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR M.B.A. GRADUATES A Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) is a versatile and respected degree that can benefit professionals in many different positions and industries. Benedictine s online M.B.A. offers seven specializations, so you have the opportunity to study industry-specific topics in addition to the general business concepts covered in the core curriculum. Here are a few examples of careers that may be available to M.B.A. graduates. READ ABOUT SOME OF THE CHALLENGES FACING MANAGERS TODAY. ACCOUNTANT Accountants are responsible for preparing accurate financial records and ensuring that they meet legal and ethical standards. They may also examine company finances to make sure that organizations are running as efficiently as possible. ACTUARY Actuaries analyze risk data related to age, location, gender and other factors to help insurance companies calculate and set rates. 22
BUSINESS INDUSTRY AUDITOR While auditors have skills that are similar to those of accountants, they typically use them to examine financial records for error or fraud. FINANCIAL ANALYST Financial analysts guide investment decisions for business or individuals by researching and evaluating industries as well as the performance of stocks and bonds. HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR Hospital administrators are responsible for making sure that all operations at the facility run smoothly. They may manage budgets, quality assurance procedures, and physician and staff hiring. They are also charged with making sure the hospital meets and maintains all government regulations and legal requirements. INVESTMENT BANKER These financial professionals make investments to help companies, organizations, government agencies and individuals raise money in capital markets. They also make suggestions about mergers and acquisitions and other financial dealings. MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT Also called management analysts, these business professionals examine organizational processes, resources and goals to suggest ways to improve efficiency. ILLINOIS, THE HOME OF BENEDICTINE S MAIN CAMPUS, IS HOME TO 31 FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES. MARKETING DIRECTOR The leader of the marketing department is responsible for overall marketing strategy and planning for the company. The director also stays informed of developments and trends in marketing and advertising to ensure that campaigns and initiatives are designed for maximum impact. 23
BUSINESS INDUSTRY MARKET RESEARCH ANALYST These marketing professionals study customer behavior and needs, population demographics and existing marketing offerings to explore the creation and sales of a potential product or service. MONEY/STOCK/BOND/OPTION TRADER Traders buy and sell securities, commodities and other financial products, using their knowledge of the industry to make investment decisions. They may invest money for a firm and receive a percentage of the resulting profits. SALES DIRECTOR Leaders of sales departments create national sales plans by forecasting quotas based on market conditions. They supervise a team of sales professionals and keep current with changing market conditions, trends, competition and other business factors that might affect sales. 24
M.S. IN MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR BUSINESS INDUSTRY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR M.S. IN MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR GRADUATES With expert knowledge in how groups and individuals work together within an organization, as well as how to facilitate and support their efforts, graduates of the online Master of Science (M.S.) in Management and Organizational Behavior program are prepared for a variety of high-ranking, employee-facing roles. COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND JOB ANALYST These analysts research appropriate compensation levels based on role responsibilities and industry norms. They may also research benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES HR executives do long-term planning for hiring based on organizational goals and strategy. They may also research, implement and enforce HR policies in response to trends, issues or concerns. EMPLOYEE RELATIONS MANAGER This role is similar to positions in human resources, but it focuses on handling issues among members of the workforce, such as employee complaints and disciplinary issues. IS GOING IT ALONE RIGHT FOR YOU? READ ABOUT A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF AN INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY SPECIALIST These business professionals examine work environments and processes to ensure they are safe for employees. They also are responsible for making sure that workplaces meet regulations and laws on health and safety, and may present programs on proper procedures to prevent disease and injury. ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR CONSULTANT Professionals in these areas work to improve employee productivity and organizational performance through the study and application of human and group behavior principles. They may be on staff or work as independent consultants. 25
BUSINESS INDUSTRY B.A. IN MANAGEMENT CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MANAGEMENT GRADUATES The online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Management focuses on building core business skills that can help you move into roles with more responsibility in a variety of industries. ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICE MANAGER These managers plan and supervise administrative and office support tasks for an organization or department, such as recordkeeping, maintaining office supplies and arranging for office maintenance. ADVERTISING, PROMOTIONS AND MARKETING MANAGER These business professionals collaborate with art directors, account executives and clients to plan initiatives that draw publicity and attention to a product or service. COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS MANAGER Compensation and benefits managers research salary levels and employee benefits, including retirement plans and health insurance. They are often responsible for coordinating salary and benefit disbursements as well. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER HR managers supervise employee recruitment, interviews and hiring. They may also help to mediate conflicts between employees and provide input into strategic human capital planning for the organization. PROPERTY, REAL ESTATE AND COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGER These managers are responsible for directing and maintaining the care of residential, commercial or industrial properties. SALES MANAGERS Sales managers lead company sales teams by establishing sales strategy and tactics, setting goals, tracking sales trends and training sales representatives. 26
B.A. IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP BUSINESS INDUSTRY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP GRADUATES The online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Organizational Leadership program focuses on helping you develop the key leadership techniques necessary to help an organization maximize its human capital a skill that is in demand across industries. ADVERTISING, PROMOTIONS AND MARKETING MANAGER Advertising managers research and design programs that publicize and generate consumer interest in the organization s product or service. FUNDRAISING MANAGER These managers create and coordinate programs, campaigns and initiatives to encourage donations to the organization or sponsored cause. HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER HR managers supervise employee recruitment, interviews and hiring. They may also help to support communication between staff and management, and provide input into future hiring strategies for the organization. HUMAN RESOURCE SPECIALIST These managers recruit candidates and screen them for interviews. They may also take on other HR tasks such as payroll and benefits. LABOR RELATIONS SPECIALIST Labor relations specialists evaluate and submit labor contracts on wages and salaries, union and management practices and employee welfare. MANAGEMENT ANALYST Management analysts and consultants work to improve organizational efficiency and performance. They may be on staff or work as independent consultants. PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER PR managers create strategies and materials to enhance the public image and reputation of a company on an ongoing basis and in crisis situations. SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE MANAGERS These managers coordinate programming at social service agencies and community organizations. TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER These managers responsibilities include creating, identifying and directing programs that promote professional development among employees. 27
CAREER INFORMATION MORE INFORMATION FOR EVEN MORE CAREER INFORMATION, CONTACT US: (866) 295-3104 online.ben.edu onlinedegrees@ben.edu BENEDICTINE UNIVERSITY ONLINE PROGRAMS GRADUATE HEALTH PROGRAMS Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) Master of Science (M.S.) in Nutrition and Wellness Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.) BUSINESS PROGRAMS Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) Accelerated M.B.A. Dual Concentration M.B.A. Master of Science (M.S.) in Management and Organizational Behavior DUAL DEGREES M.P.H./M.B.A. M.P.H./M.S. in Management and Organizational Behavior M.B.A./M.S. in Management and Organizational Behavior M.S.N./M.B.A. UNDERGRADUATE Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Management Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Organizational Leadership GRADUATE CERTIFICATES Health Education and Promotion Health Management and Policy Emergency Preparedness Epidemiology Internet Marketing 28
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