A Beginner's Guide to Medical Transcription

While it's a term often heard in the health care industry, there are many people who aren't exactly sure what medical transcription is. In fact, it's a job performed by educated and talented professionals who make it possible for physicians and other health care professionals to treat patients more efficiently. Read through this guide to find out more about just what a medical transcriptionist does and how their work affects the health care industry.

What does a medical transcriptionist do?

These health care professionals are responsible for listening to dictated voice recordings from the health care professionals with whom they work. Most often, these recordings are from doctors and surgeons, although there are other executives and lead nurses who need medical transcription support as well. As they listen to the recordings, they type the accompanying text into organized, cohesive documents that physicians and other health care professionals can read through at a later time.

How do they create the documents from voice recordings?

Most medical transcriptionists have special equipment that allows them to transcribe the information in the recordings quickly and accurately. This includes a headset, through which they listen to the recording, as well as a foot pedal, which pauses the recording while they type. Medical transcriptionists usually use a word processor on a personal computer to create the documents from the voice recordings.

What types of reports do medical transcriptionists listen to?

There are a wide variety of reports that are recorded by physicians which medical transcriptionists are expected to prepare in document form. Among these types of reports are autopsy reports, discharge summaries, referral letters, progress notes, operative reports, physical exams, etc. Medical transcriptionists may be expected to follow certain formats when creating these documents depending on what type of report was recorded.

What education is required in order to become a medical transcriptionist?

Most medical transcriptionists must complete a two-year associate's degree or one-year certificate program before they are accepted to a position in their field. They complete classes in medical terminology, grammar, punctuation, anatomy and medical law as a part of their degree or certificate program. Some medical transcriptionists also complete an internship as a part of their program. Most medical transcriptionists complete continuing education courses throughout their career to keep up with changing information and trends in the health care industry.

What certification is required to be a medical transcriptionist?

Certification is not required in most states in order to be a medical transcriptionist. However, many of these health care professionals pursue one of two voluntary certifications in other to gain better jobs and higher pay. The two voluntary certifications are offered through the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI) and the American Health Information Management Association. After completing one of these certification exams, the medical transcriptionist will receive their credentials as either a Registeed Medical Transcriptionist (RMT) or a Certified Medical Transcriptionist (CMT). Recertification is required for both of these certifications every few years.

How much do medical transcriptionists earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for a medical transcriptionist is $15.41. Some are employed by a health care facility or service, while others are independent contractors which work on a project-by-project basis.

 

Becoming Self-Employed in the Health Care Industry

So you want to start your own business? It's a tempting idea - creating your own hours, choosing your clients, hiring your own staff, getting your own office, etc. You might even be able to make more money working for yourself. Being self-employed can be a career choice which offers you more flexibility and authority in your job.

Many health care professionals are able to become self-employed, whether they are starting their own practice or becoming an independent contractor. However, it's not easy to start your own business. There are dozens of factors to consider, including everything from the money it will take to get started to how it will affect your personal life outside of work. Listed here are some of the top priorities you need to explore if you are considering self-employment in the health care industry. Be sure to carefully examine each of these areas before making any important decisions, like quitting your job, for example. You may also want to seek the advice of professionals regarding marketing, law and taxes as well before making the move to self-employment.

1. Types of Self-Employment
First thing's first - you need to decide what type of self-employment will work for you. For health care professionals looking to open up their own business, you may want to consider starting a private practice. This can be a personal venture or you can team up with other professionals. Most private practices have their own office with working business hours, as well as one or more support staff to help with scheduling and other office needs. This is a good option for health care practitioners who need a defined space for all their equipment and health care services. For example, a physical therapist may need to have their own space for rehabilitation equipment and other devices used during therapy. The other option with self-employment is becoming an independent contractor. This is great for health care workers like massage therapists, who may have an easier time going out to visit clients one-on-one and provide services on a contract basis.

2. Money
If you want to buy or lease a space where you can offer your health care services, you'll need some start-up money. This can require taking out large loans, so if you have trouble with debt or credit history it could be quite a challenge. Beyond that, you'll also need to purchase office equipment, supplies and furnishings for your space. Don't forget that you'll also be responsible for paying your own taxes, and independent contractors may also have to pay a separate self-employment tax. These are all things which need to be thoroughly investigated, especially because bad financial decisions can make or break your business.

3. Legal
Do not forget about the legal aspect of providing health care services. You'll need to be covered by professional liability insurance, as will your employees. You should also consult a lawyer about creating a document for clients to sign which explains any risks or considerations associated with your health care services. These are tricky areas which are worth the time and money to investigate, especially since your primary concern is the safety of your clients.

 

College Applications 101

Applying to college can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Even if you've narrowed down your potential schools to a list of three or four universities and colleges, it can still take hours to complete all the applications and the accompanying materials. Though students should always seek out the help of teachers, parents and guidance counselors when it comes to college applications, the following is a list of basic information every student needs to know about applying to college.

1. Materials.
Many college applications ask for similar materials, some of which you may be able to use for more than one application. Start out by making sure you have a few great recommendations from your high school teachers, coaches and other authority figures. Don't forget to get a copy of your transcript, or give your high school the college's address so they can send it in for you. Your standardized test scores form the ACT and SAT are also necessary for any college application. Make sure you work on getting these materials well in advance since it may be difficult to arrange them at the last minute.

2. Deadlines
As soon as you figure out which school you want to apply to, mark down the application deadlines for each school on your calendar. Try to aim to have each application done at least two weeks in advance of the deadline. Not only does this guarantee you'll have your application materials ready to go in time, it also allows your application to travel through the mail and get to the school before the deadline.

3. Essays
You'll also have to write some essays; most schools have their own topics which means you'll need to write a separate essay for each school. Give yourself plenty of time to write out each essay thoughtfully and carefully, then have a trusted teacher or parent read through the essay for any errors in grammar or punctuation. Try to be as creative as you can while still following the directions provided in the application. An unusual topic or creative writing style can really catch the eye of the admissions staff at the colleges of your choice.

4. Online Vs. Mail-In
More and more colleges are providing students with the option to apply online. Usually, you won't need to be especially tech-savvy to navigate an online application. These applications are often preferable since students can gradually work through the application and save their progress, coming back to it when they have time. Also, mistakes don't need any white-out or a fresh application in order to fix. You can also rest assured that your application won't get lost in the mail when you send in an application online; however, make sure you get a confirmation from the school that your application was received.

5. Fees
Applying to college isn't free, at least in most cases. You may need to narrow down the number of schools to which you apply based on how much money you or your parents have available for application fees. These fees can range anywhere from $20 to $75 each depending on which colleges you apply to, so be prepared to send in a check through the mail or enter your credit card information online when you complete your application.

 

Getting an Internship During College

College is the perfect time to get some valuable experience in the real world. Many students are able to secure great internships within their field while also continuing their college studies. It's an excellent way to explore your future career path, gain great contacts, network with experienced professionals and learn more about your field. Many students find that the internship experiences they had during their undergraduate education play an important role in their ability to find a job after graduation.

One important factor in obtaining an internship is whether or not the student will be able to earn college credit for their experience. Every student should check with their academic advisor to find out if an internship can be counted as a college class. Many programs have a special listing in their class catalog for internships, where students can arrange internships on an individual basis for an upcoming semester and have the time they spend at their internship count as the same number of credits as a typical class. This is a great way to get even more value out of your internship. Plus, academic advisors within your major may have several excellent contacts which you can get in touch with in order to set up an internship in your field.

Students should also pay close attention to any compensation (or lack thereof) provided through the internship. Many internships are unpaid since students are gaining class credit for their experience. Others offer an hourly wage much like a part-time job. There are also many internships, both paid and unpaid, which provide students with a monthly stipend that can go towards related expenses like transportation to and from work, lunches or appropriate work attire. Although it's not uncommon for students to accept unpaid internships, they should always make sure that taking on an internship won't interfere with their ability to pay any bills, rent or other expenses for things that they need on a day-to-day basis, such as groceries and school supplies. Many students are able to make this financial situation work, either by spending less or taking out additional loans.

It's important for students to also balance their studies with their internship. Although a student should always complete any assignments or expectations from their internship, they should make sure these obligations don't detract from their other school obligations. School projects, essays, papers and research also need to completed thoughtfully and on-time, so students need to make sure to schedule in enough time to complete the assignments for both school and work.

Overall, an internship can be one of the best ways for a student to explore possible career paths and gain excellent experience in their field. Many students report that their previous experience through an internship helped them land a job after they graduated from college. Students from both community colleges and four-year universities are often able to complete internships at some point during their college education.

 

Have You Ever Thought About Teaching?

Many experienced professionals in the health care industry have considered taking on a teaching position later in their career. It's a great way to take on a new challenge while also sharing your experiences with the next batch of health care professionals to enter the workforce. Teaching can be a rewarding experience that also gives the professional the opportunity to take a break from their regular routine and immerse themselves in an educational environment.

Although some health care workers may be intimidated by the thought of teaching college students, there are several options in education that may suit different professionals based on their interest in teaching. For example, some nurses, physical therapists, nutritionists and other health care workers actually volunteer their time to be a guest speaker in a class or at a special event. They can share their wisdom and experience with students on a more informal, temporary basis. This is a great way for health care professionals to test out the possibility of teaching on a case-by-case basis. They can see if they like the idea of teaching a group of students before becoming fully invested in the teaching world itself. It also provides students with valuable information they can use to provide better care for their patients in the future or to discern which health care career path is right for them.

Other health care professionals find that a full- or part-time teaching position is what works best for them. This often requires an advanced degree such as a master's or a doctorate in their given field. Some teach just one or two classes a week, while others teach several classes a day. While some teach at a vocational school or community college, others become employed at a four-year university teaching students working towards a bachelor's degree or master's degree. These positions require a significant amount of time and research in order to provide a well-rounded learning experience for the students. In some cases, a health care professional leaves their job in the health care industry in order to teach full-time. Others take on a part-time position at a college or university while still working part-time at a medical facility. In either case, being the lead professor for a classroom requires much more work than a one-time speaking engagement. However, it can also be more rewarding as teachers get to know their students and watch as they learn and grow in their class.

If you've ever thought about teaching a subject pertaining to the health care industry, consider talking to a professor at a nearby school. Ask about their experience and qualifications as well as the time they invest in teaching every week. Offer to speak in front of a class to provide advice or information to see how you like the teaching world. While it may require additional education or qualifications in order to become a professor, it can be a fun challenge that allows health care professionals to give back and help others succeed in the health care industry.

 

Job Satisfaction Among Health Care Workers

Have you ever wondered if a career in health care will make you happy? Though it appears to be a very rewarding job, are some employees in the health care industry happier than others? What affects job satisfaction in this field? Whether you're a student who's considering a career in health care or a current health care professional looking for a job, these are important questions to ask.

Actually, health care workers tend to be very satisfied with their job overall. Most people in this field report that they are happy with their work and enjoy the rewarding experience of helping others. However, there are specific factors to consider that affect the level of satisfaction for certain positions. Furthermore, some health care jobs tend to have a higher satisfaction rate than others.

For example, a 2002 study of physicians in the U.S. found that about 7 out of 10 physicians were satisfied or very satisfied with their job. A similar study was done in Canada, with a satisfaction of about 75% in that country. Nurses, on the other hand, show a slightly lower satisfaction rate than physicians. In the U.S., about 63% of the 76,000 registered nurses surveyed reported that they were satisfied with their job.

How come nurses didn't score as highly for satisfaction as physicians? Believe it or not, their annual salary wasn't one of the reasons. In fact, the top three factors affecting job satisfaction are generally stress, autonomy and the relationship with supervisors. For nurses, it's easy to see how stress would play a major role in their day-to-day responsibilities. Furthermore, a bad relationship with one of the physicians on their team may affect their satisfaction. Many nurses may also feel they lack autonomy when they are not given the opportunity to take a leadership role or complete tasks on their own. Despite these factors, however, the 63% satisfaction rate is still relatively high when compared to other career paths in the U.S.

There are other factors which may affect job satisfaction in health care. A large workload and working overtime hours may also affect the level of satisfaction in a job. Because nurses often work longer hours, this may contribute to the fact that their satisfaction was lower than that of physicians, who normally work more structured hours.

The majority of nurses and physicians, despite the slight differences in percentages, still are satisfied or very satisfied with their jobs. They aren't the only ones, however. Allied health workers also report very high satisfaction rates, with about 85% to 98% reporting that they are happy with their work and would choose the same career if they could start over again. Other health care career paths enjoy high satisfaction rates as well. Physical therapists are one of the most satisfied groups of working professionals in health care, with 75% of these workers reporting that they are very satisfied with their jobs. In fact, they are the second-most satisfied group of workers in the entire country, second only to clergy, according to a National Opinion Research Center survey. In general, choosing a career in health care is a safe bet that you'll be happy with your career choice in the long run.

 

Repaying College Loans: What to Expect

It's hard enough deciding where to go to college, what to major in and what campus activities you want to be a part of. These are all part of the college planning process and require plenty of thought and consideration. However, one aspect of your college education that you simply can't overlook is financial aid. Almost every college student amasses some debt during their college years. Most commonly, this debt is composed of student loans which are taken out during a student's education. Unlike grants or scholarships, you will have to pay these loans back after school, which can be a significant burden when you're fresh out of college. Learn more about what to expect when taking out college loans in order to make smarter financial decisions for your future.

1. Interest Rates
When you take out a loan, it usually accrues interest based on the set rates from the organization which is providing the loan. Federal loans typically have lower interest rates, than private loans. It's important to understand that every month you are in school, your debt is growing due to the interest which is adding up on your loans. Some students do their best to try to pay off the interest as they go through school in order to keep repayment costs down.

2. Federal Loans: Subsidized vs. Unsubsidized
You may qualify for loans from the federal government based on you and your family's gross income. One important thing to understand about federal loans is that subsidized loans do not accrue interest during the course of a student's education. Unsubsidized loans, on the other hand, do charge interest from the time the money is given to the time when the loan has been completely repaid. Students should plan accordingly when accepting financial aid from the government.

3. Repayment Plans
One of the major decisions you'll have to make after college is what payment plan you'll go on in order to repay your loans. Many students go with the standard repayment, which involves an equal amount which is charged each month until the loan has been completely repaid. Others use the graduated repayment, which starts with a lower monthly charge and grows slowly over the course of the repayment plan. Another common option is income-based repayment, where students pay according to their monthly income. Each of these plans has its pros and cons, so weigh your options carefully. Also, pay attention to the length of your repayment plan; depending on how much you owe, your monthly charges may be based on a 5-year, 10-year or 30-year plan. Of course, you can always pay it off sooner if you are able to make larger monthly payments.

4. Forbearance and Deferment
If you are not able to make your monthly payments within six months of your graduation from college, you may have to choose to put your loans in forbearance or deferment. Both options delay the repayment of the loan, but the forbearance option still requires the graduate to make payments on the interest that accrues. Deferment, on the other hand, freezes both the loan and the interest until the deferment period is over. Deferment is usually reserved for more serious financial situations or if a student reenrolls in school.

 

The Pros and Cons of Working While Attending College

College is typically the gateway to a successful career where an individual can eventually earn much more money than if they had not obtained a college degree. This causes more and more high school graduates to apply to college every year, hoping to find out what it is they would like to do as a career and get the right education to perform that job. Unfortunately, the trade-off is the high costs of college tuition. Many students go into significant student loan debt during the course of their college education and find it difficult to make loan payments following their graduation.

In order to make money to pay off other living expenses, build up a savings account or pay off loan interest, many students decide to get a job while earning their college degree. For the most part, students work part-time while attending school, but there are some who attempt to work nearly full-time hours even with their busy school schedule. In either case, it's important for all students to consider the benefits and drawbacks to taking a job while earning a degree. It's an important decision that has the ability to make life easier and harder for a student at the same time. Here's a quick look at some of the main factors to consider when you are thinking about getting a job while working towards a degree:

Time: The biggest drawback of taking on a job during college is the fact that it takes up a student's time. This can affect the ability of the student to attend class, study regularly and complete all the necessary assignments. Even if the student can keep up with their schoolwork while having a job, it may cut into their social time or their time to sleep or just relax. In this case, a job can start to takes its toll over time as the student becomes burned out due to their hectic schedule. Students should make sure they still have enough time to maintain a balanced lifestyle if they decide to get a job.

Money: Most students get a job for the extra money. This can be a huge help for students who don't want to rack up credit card debt or student loan interest. For some students, getting a job may be an absolute necessity because of the money. In any case, students should try to find a job which offers them the wages they need to meet their own personal financial needs.

Experience: Students should take into account the possible benefits of having a job during school. Some students have realized the benefit of taking a paid internship or finding an entry-level job in their field of study. This allows them to earn not only money from their job, but also valuable experience which can help them in their future careers. Students interested in finding a job in their field should check with their academic advisors to find out if an internship can be counted for class credits; this is a great way for some students to solve the issue of a job taking too much time away from their studies.

 

What are General Education Courses?

So you've taken the plunge and enrolled at a four-year university or community college of your choice. You can't wait to get started since you'll finally be able to take the classes you actually care about. Unlike high school, you'll have more control over your schedule and you'll be taking classes that will directly apply to your future career.

Despite the excitement of entering college, many students are disheartened when they hear about the general education requirements that are expected for every student. These classes may not pertain to your major at all, and yet they must be completed in order to graduate. This can come as a shock to some students who were expected to jump right into the courses for their major. In fact, they may spend most of their first year or so of college completing these "gen ed" requirements.

What exactly are these courses and what is their purpose? Typically, general education courses are a selection of introductory classes over a wide variety of subject areas. Some of the most common classes you'll see listed as general education requirements are English 101, Introduction to Psychology, Advanced Algebra, etc. All students are expected to complete the required number of courses for each subject area. For example, students may need to take two English, one math, one government, one history and two science courses in order to complete their general education requirements. The requirements vary by school, so students should carefully look at the list of required classes. Most schools offer a choice of courses in the required subjects. For example, your history requirement may be able to be completed by taking either a U.S. history course, World History course or a History of World War II course. Students can often choose their classes according to either what works for their schedule or which topics interest them the most.

The purpose of general education requirements, despite how it may seem, is not a tactic used to get students to pay tuition for additional years of school. In fact, these courses are meant to provide a well-rounded educational background for each student, one that will prepare them to be thoughtful individuals who can work with diverse people in a number of different settings. It may not seem so at the time, but taking classes on a wide number of subjects help to broaden your worldview and give you more perspective when working in the real world.

Students are usually able to complete their general education requirements within two or three semesters. At community colleges, there may be fewer gen eds required since degree programs tend to be shorter in overall length. Meanwhile four-year schools referred to as liberal arts colleges tend to have the most general education requirements since they have a strong focus in a well-rounded educational experience. For students who are looking to avoid general education requirements and get into the workplace faster, technical and vocational schools require few, if any, gen ed courses in their curriculums.

 

Work-From-Home Jobs in the Health Care Industry

Although health care services are largely reliant on face-to-face interactions with patients, there are several roles in this industry which can be performed from the comfort of your home. If you want to help others and enjoy a challenging career in health care, but you'd like to work at home, there are several options which can fulfill both of these roles. The health care industry is so wide and so broad in scope that there are several tasks which can be completed out of a hospital, clinic, nursing home or other health care setting.

Many professionals who work from home are employed by a medical facility or a health care service provider. However, there is also a significant portion of these work-at-home professionals who work as an independent contractor or consultant. Their services are paid for by a variety of clients on a project-by-project basis. There pros and cons to both of these work arrangements, so health care professionals should carefully weigh each option before embarking on a work-at-home career.

Jobs which involve writing and document creation are some of the most popular work-from-home health care careers. For example, medical transcription is one of the leading professions for health care workers who are employed outside of a health care facility or office. These individuals listen to voice recordings of reports and exams from physicians and other health care professionals. Then, they type up a document based on what was included in the recording. Because of the convenience of the Internet, thousands of medical transcriptions can be sent voice recordings, which they can then quickly transcribe and send back to their employer or clients. This is an excellent choice for health care professionals who want a flexible job which they can complete at home.

Another great work-at-home position for health care professionals is an on-call position. Many health care professionals take on a part-time job as an on-call worker. In some cases, health care professionals are allowed to be at home while they are on call. This allows the individual to be at home and getting other things dine or spending time with family while still earning some money. Health care professionals should keep in mind, however, the average number of hours an on-call worker is called in. This can vary according to where the individual is employed, and health care workers don't want to become burned out by an active on-call job, especially if they are also working a full-time job in addition to their on-call hours.

Some health care professionals choose to set up a home office where they can see clients within their residence. This works well for several health care professions, such as massage therapy and nutrition. In each of these instances, a client can come to the professional's home in order to receive a consultation or treatment. This reduces the travel costs for the professional and makes it easier to see more patients per day. Any health care professional considering setting up a home office should check with local and state regulations pertaining to health care services and self-employment.

 

The Highest-Paying Associate's Degrees in Health Care

With the high costs of a college education, many students are looking for faster ways to complete a degree program and get started on their career. This allows them to still get the education they need without racking up tens of thousands of dollars in student loans. It also helps them start earning money faster in order to repay any financial aid that they must utilize in order to attend school.

For students interested in health care, there are plenty of great options for getting a degree fast and earning a significant income. The health care field is unique in that it offers several career paths which can be pursued with only an associate's degree. Students can attend about two years of classes at a community college or vocational school and go on to a successful, lucrative career with any of the options listed below.

Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory therapists are involved in the evaluation and treatment of patients with a cardiopulmonary disease or a serious breathing condition. The treatments they provide may involve oxygen tanks, aerosol medications or specialized equipment. After completing an associate's degree in respiratory therapy, students need to become licensed by the National Board for Respiratory Care. The average annual salary for a respiratory therapist is $69,800.

Insurance Processor

Insurance processors are responsible for tracing medical insurance claims and handling health insurance policies for a large number of clients. They coordinate with medical facilities to verify claims and bill patients appropriately. A basic knowledge of computer systems and administrative functions are necessary for employment in this field. An associate's degree is required for this position, which generally yields a salary of about $55,760 per year.

X-Ray Technician

The main responsibility of an x-ray technician is to set up and produce diagnostic images of patients. This job requires the use of specialized equipment and in-depth knowledge of human anatomy. X-ray technicians also collaborate with physicians and surgeons to determine a treatment plan for each patient. An associate's degree is required to enter the field, which claims an average annual salary of $52,210.

Orthopedic Technologist

Orthopedic Technologists create and assemble the prosthetics, casts, braces and similar assistive devices that patients need. An important part of their job is to make sure these devices are properly fitted to each individual patient. An associate's degree in orthopedic technology is required. Before being hired, professionals in this field must also become certified through the National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Technologists (NBCOT). The average annual earnings for an orthopedic technologist are $44,458.

Licensed Practical Nurse

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) works directly with patients in a medical facility or through a home health care service. They provide basic care for patients, including giving injections, recording vital signs and dressing wounds. An associate's degree and a passing score on the NCLEX-PN exam are required for professional certification. LPNs make an average annual salary of $39,030.

 

Should I Get a Master's or a Doctorate in Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is attracting a great number of students who are interested in working in the health care industry. With an impressive job growth of 30% expected in the next ten years, there's no wonder that this career path has become very popular in recent years. Students have recognized the potential for an abundance of job openings, opportunities for advancement and a steady stream of significant annual income. Additionally, the physical therapist's work hours are very conducive to family life since most of these professionals work a typical 40-hour week with no on-call hours required, unlike many other health care positions which involve working directly with patients.

It's clear that physical therapy is an attractive field for health care students. However, many students are confused as to the best way to become a physical therapist. There are two kinds of degree programs that can lead to a career in this field: master's degree and doctorate degrees. There are several differences between the two, and students should carefully consider which of these degree programs in physical therapy is right for them.

Before deciding which type of degree program to pursue, it's important to understand how these programs are set up. Every student who wants to become a physical therapist needs to attend a school that has been approved by the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). As of 2010, there were 212 degree programs accredited by the CAPTE. Of these programs, 200 are doctoral degree programs, while only 12 award a master's degree in the field of physical therapy.

Why is there such a difference between the number of master's degree programs and doctoral degree programs? Previously, many physical therapy programs were master's level degree programs. However, a large number of these programs have transitioned to a doctoral program. One of the reasons for this transition is the expectation that educational requirements for physical therapy may become stricter in the future. Therefore, in order to attract more students and remain relevant in the field of physical therapy, many schools have transitioned their master's of physical therapy (MPT) program to a doctorate of physical therapy (DPT) program.

Because many experts believe a doctorate will offer a physical therapy student more opportunities in their field, more students tend to choose a DPT program over an MPT program. Fortunately, the time commitment involved in earning a doctorate degree in this field isn't very different from that of earning a master's degree. Most MPT programs take two to two and a half years to complete, while a doctorate degree program takes about three years. Therefore, students can choose to earn a doctorate without worrying that they will be in school for several years longer than they would have to be to earn a master's degree.

Overall, doctorate degrees are the more popular choice for students entering the field of physical therapy. On top of the fact that it provides a more in-depth education for the student, many physical therapists believe that this may eventually become the minimum requirement for working in this popular branch of health care.

 

How to Pay For College on Your Own

Whether you're going back to school as an adult or just graduating from high school, one of the biggest challenges in getting your college education is getting the money to pay for it. Many students face this challenge alone for a variety of reasons. A parent may not be able to or want to help out. An adult going back to school may be a single parent who needs to start working part-time in order to attend classes. In any case, obtaining enough financial aid to attend college can be overwhelming or even scary. Not only is it a lot of work to track down federal and private loans, scholarships and grants, it's also a huge commitment to paying back your debt after school without knowing whether you'll get a job right after you graduate.

First of all, don't panic: there are plenty of students who have come before you who have successfully paid for school all on their own. All you need to know is a few tricks for finding the best financial aid and how to use it to your advantage. The first step for any college student is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This government-issued form can be found online and offers a way for students to apply for federal funding for their education. Depending on the student's level of financial need, funds are distributed accordingly.

If you're paying for school on your own, at least try to get a parent to supply their income information to help you qualify. If that's not the case, you can try to establish yourself as an independent. To do this, you must either be over the age of 24, married, supporting a dependent, homeless, in the military, a veteran, an orphan or in foster care. If you qualify as an independent, the odds of receiving financial aid are increased since your income will likely be less than that of your parents. It can also help parents to receive funds since they are already supporting their children. Check with your state about what qualifies an individual as an independent on the FAFSA.

Scholarships and grants are another good tool to use for getting financial aid for college. Unlike most students loans, these funds don't have to be repaid after graduation, so it's well worth the time it takes to search for them. There are several great databases of scholarship and grant opportunities online. You can search through these databases based on your personal financial need, your degree program or the school you plan to attend. Most students can find at least a handful of scholarships for which they qualify. Be prepared to fill out plenty of applications and possibly write a few essays when applying for scholarships or grants.

Finally, check with your school for possible financial aid options. Outside of student loans, they may provide some scholarship or grant opportunities for students based on their connection to former alumni, their degree program, their involvement in student activities or their academic standing. In any case, plan out your financial aid options and collect as many funds as possible. Once you know how much money you'll be receiving, make a solid plan for repayment after graduation. It is possible to pay for college on your own, so don't give up!

 

Going to College: A Freshman Survival Kit

Heading off for your first year of college can be overwhelming - even scary. For many students, it's the first time they've been on their own. Even adults going back to school may feel a bit nervous. Younger students, however, are more likely to be living in a dorm or apartment where they'll need to have not only the everyday items needed for their new home, but also enough supplies for the new school year.

Even if you've done the "back to school shopping" routine before, college is a whole new ballgame that requires a different kind of preparation. Fortunately, you can make sure you have everything covered by creating a survival kit to get you through your first semester of college. Keep in mind that there are specific items that you may need to get to customize your kit for your own college experience or personal needs. The items listed here, however, cover the basics that just about every freshman will need.

School Supplies

The thing to keep in mind with your school supplies is that you won't have access to certain things that were a mainstay at every classroom or school you've attended before. Don't forget things like staplers, Scotch tape or post-it notes, all of which will come in handy during that first year. Also, it's helpful to get a printer for your dorm or apartment. If you don't want to spend the extra money, make sure you have access to a library or store which offers printing and copying services. Another major aspect of school supplies for college freshman to consider is a planner or organizer. A daily planner can be a huge resource for most college students; remember that this is the first time you'll be completely on your own, so making sure you get to class and finish assignments on time is completely your responsibility.

Medical Supplies

Now that you'll be living away from home, you'll want to stock up on the basics in medicines and first aid supplies that you always had access to at your parents' home. Get a first aid kit that includes bandages, anti-bacterial ointment, gauze and hydrogen peroxide to use in case of a minor injury. You should also purchase over-the-counter drugs that just about everyone uses from time to time, such as Tylenol, Advil and Motrin. If you have any prescription medications, make sure you stock up on them and plan to get your refills at a local pharmacy close to campus.

Safety Supplies

There are a few things you'll need to keep you safe during your first year on your own. Get a flashlight, fire extinguisher and a small set of tools to keep on hand. Also, make sure your dorm room's smoke detector is working properly. Also, program safety numbers into your phone, such as campus safety, a taxi company and any other emergency numbers you might need for an unsafe situation.

Decorations

Being able to decorate your new room is one of the best parts about moving off to college. Plan to get a few plants, curtains or posters to make your space more personalized. Don't forget about a futon, mini-fridge, TV or any other things that may make your room cozier.

 

Finding Jobs the Old-Fashioned Way

In our current Internet age, many recent graduates and professionals don't consider their job hunt to be an "offline" activity. We're constantly being reminded that our job search can be easy and convenient thanks to major job search engines like Monster, CareerBuilder and Yahoo! Jobs. Furthermore, we can connect with other professionals with tools like Facebook and LinkedIn. There are tons of online articles about how to find a job online, how to build your resume and how to nail the interview.

These are all valuable tools that should not be disregarded. An ongoing online search for open positions is the crux of any serious job hunt. The online venues for job searching cannot and should not be ignored in today's day and age. In addition to making it easier for us job hunters to find a position, it also makes it easier for employers to post open positions and sort through potential job candidates.

However, every recent graduate and professional looking for work needs to extend their job search beyond their computer screen. There's a wealth of opportunities available to you that you simply won't find online. Remember that the vast majority of today's workforce, especially the executives who post job openings and hire job applicants, did not use the Internet to find work. For many of these professionals who came from pre-Internet generations, an in-person introduction is preferred to one received via email. Furthermore, they like to look at hard copies of applicant resumes rather than an electronic document.

While this isn't the case for every employer, it definitely helps for job hunters to open themselves up to job search opportunities that can be found online. The list below provides three viable options for finding work without the use of a computer. Consider adding these tactics to your job hunting strategy, keeping in mind that by using these means of job searching you are likely to find out about positions which are not posted online and, therefore, have less competition due to fewer applicants.

1. Network, Network, Network.

It's absolutely critical that job hunters network within their field of expertise. If you want a job in health care, for example, make sure you get involved with professional associations and groups in your field. This will present you with the opportunity to meet other professionals that can either let you know about a recent job opening or give you some advice for your job search.

2. Use Your Connections.

Almost everyone has at least one underutilized connection. While you may think of "having connections" as something only the rich can benefit from, this isn't just about who your family knows and whether you've met a big executive of a top company (although those things can also be helpful). Think about all the other people you've met along the way to becoming a professional. This includes teachers, professors, friends and internship supervisors. Each of these people may be able to provide you with some insight or alert you when they find out about a position that's perfect for you.

3. Inquire In-Person.

If you really want a job in a particular field, don't be shy - ask for it! Think of a few places in your area which you consider to be a place you'd like to work, and then go for it. Make a phone call or walk right in and ask if they have any current job openings or whether they accept resumes. Be prepared with your resume in hand and keep a positive attitude; if they say "no," politely thank them and try back again in a month or two. The fact that you are being a go-getter who knows what they want just might impress that potential employer.

 

A Guide to Changing Your Major

When most people enter college, they're barely adults and just living on their own for the first time. It's thrilling, scary, overwhelming and invigorating all at the same time. Though taking classes and determining a course in life is a major concern, these students are also dealing with making new friends, adjusting to life away from home, being completely responsible for themselves and trying new things. All this combined makes it difficult to really decide "What do I want to do with my life?" at the ripe age of 18.

It's not uncommon for college freshman to choose a major and then decide to change it later. It's nothing to be ashamed of, either. Better to admit you were wrong the first time then to get stuck in a career you don't really want or enjoy. Even though it's a common practice, and nothing to be embarrassed about, changing your major should still be a "major" decision. While it's great to feel like you know what you want, don't rush into it. You don't want to get caught in a pattern of changing your major every time you get stuck in a tough class or meet one professor you don't like. Instead, plenty of thought should be put into this important decision which will alter the direction of your life.

Before changing your major, step back and think about everything that goes into your decision. First of all, why are you changing your major in the first place? What caused you to believe that your original choice was incorrect? If there are good reasons for your decision, that's a great start. But make sure you aren't basing this life change on getting in with a cooler crowd at school or skipping over the harder classes.

If you know you want to make a change, why not give it a try before making it official with the school. Take a class or two in your prospective major, and try to meet up with some working professionals in that field. Learn as much as you can about that new major, whether that entails researching it online, visiting the library or talking with other students in that degree program. While all of this will take a semester or two, you won't be rushing into a decision that you later regret. Plus, you won't have to keep going back to change your major with an academic advisor if you wait until you're sure to make the switch.

If you've gone through these steps and you know you want to change your major, congratulations; you're on your way to a happier, more successful career in the future. Set up a meeting with an academic advisor to plan out the remainder of your college career. In some cases, you may have to take summer classes or stay an extra semester to make up for the credits you used taking classes for another major. That's okay though - at this point you are sure you want to make the change and, in the end, it will be worth the extra work.