Entrepreneurship & Business Growth

Are you considering becoming one of the over 1 million cybersecurity workers in the United States?

It’s understandable that you’re not sure whether cybersecurity is the right career for you. After all, this is a young occupation that only became mainstream in the early 2000s.

Obviously, you’re passionate about the internet and computer technology. Perhaps you’re unsettled by the ever-increasing number of cyberattacks and want to help do something about it.

Noble reasons, but are they enough to make you want a career in cybersecurity?

You’ll be pleased to learn that there are solid reasons to become a cybersecurity professional. Keep reading!

1. Great Job Demand

From 2013 to 2021, the number of unfilled cybersecurity jobs grew a whopping 350 percent. As of 2021, there were about 3.5 million open positions across the globe.

The U.S. has the biggest cybersecurity industry, meaning a larger share of those unfilled positions is right here at home.

Looking into the future, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is going to keep going up. As more organizations digitize their operations and new cyber threats emerge, more cybersecurity pros will be needed.

So, if one of your worries was whether you’ll find a job soon after getting the required training, you now have a satisfactory answer.

2. Diverse Cybersecurity Career Paths

When you decide to work in cybersecurity, you open up yourself to a number of cybersecurity jobs.

From entry-level jobs like incident response analyst and risk analyst to mid-level jobs like penetration tester to senior-level jobs like a chief information security officer, you have plenty of options to choose from.

A lot will depend on your level of training. For example, there are short-term cybersecurity training courses that will prepare you for an entry-level position, especially if you already have an IT background.

From there, you can advance your career by pursuing advanced cybersecurity courses.

3. Competitive Salary

After spending your time keeping hackers away, you want to be compensated handsomely.

Here comes the good news. The average annual salary for a cybersecurity professional is $96,000 – far more than the average American income.

If you start out as an entry-level cybersecurity professional, your salary will be lower than the average.

However, you can quickly increase your income by pursuing additional cybersecurity certification or specializing in specific fields, such as penetration testing.

4. A Seemingly Future-Proof Career

As technology advances and becomes more intelligent, automation is becoming the order of the day. Human jobs are being replaced by robots and software. As a worker, you’re certainly concerned about your job security.

While it’s difficult to predict the future of technology, we can say with confidence that cybersecurity professionals aren’t going anywhere.

Hackers are always inventing new ways to penetrate and compromise systems. It’s going to take fellow humans to find ways to stay several steps ahead of the bad guys.

So, if you’re looking for a future-proof career, cybersecurity is your home.

A Career in Cybersecurity Awaits!

A career in cybersecurity is as rewarding as its challenging. These jobs have great demand, the pay is strong, and there’s little to no risk of AI taking over.

Every day, though, there will be new cyber threats to fight.

Are you ready for the challenge?

Explore our blog for more tips and advice on IT careers.

Healthcare is a highly rewarding sector to work in. Every day, your decisions and actions have an impact on people’s lives.

It is a chance to make a positive difference in the health of hundreds or even thousands of people.

Healthcare management is a challenging career.

Healthcare is a fast-paced and rapidly changing industry, so you can expect your job to be varied and interesting, with myriad opportunities for advancement.

Range of Roles

The healthcare industry is a huge sector, with roles varying from frontline jobs in nursing to behind-the-scenes management as healthcare operations managers.

Within healthcare management, roles are also varied, ranging from high-level administrative roles to very senior positions such as the chief financial officer or chief operating officer for a hospital.

As the largest industry and the second-largest employer in the US, the healthcare sector offers a huge range of career opportunities, with plenty of scope for moving around to different fields within the sector.

More than 11 million people are employed in healthcare, and it is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the US.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 429,800 roles in healthcare management and administration in 2020.

What Do Healthcare Managers Do?

There are numerous types of healthcare management roles with widely varying job descriptions, so there isn’t a short answer to this question.

However, for a typical generalist role, you can expect to be responsible for managing operations efficiently so that healthcare can be provided in an affordable way to all patients requiring services.

Your focus is on the business, administrative, and leadership aspects of healthcare provision.

Importantly, this is in the context of an ever-growing demand for healthcare, with more patients and a greater life expectancy.

General healthcare management roles cover a wide spectrum of activities, and for these, you will need a strong and broad skillset, including skills and experience in finance, leadership, and operations management.

You will also need a good level of knowledge of the healthcare sector or the ability to learn very quickly on the job.

Responsibilities can include:

• Setting goals at the departmental or organizational level
• Setting budgets and monitoring actual spend
• Improving healthcare service delivery
• Monitoring changes to laws and regulations that are applicable to the healthcare industry and ensuring compliance with them
• Managing organization and security of patient data
• Managing staffing and schedules

Operational healthcare managers in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities have responsibility for dealing with a range of challenges, from emergency shortages of beds, equipment, or staff to longer-term management of costs and staff retention and recruitment.

They may also be responsible for ensuring that the facility is compliant with all relevant government regulations. This helps to maximize patient and staff safety, as well as minimize the risk of costly fines and criminal prosecution for non-compliance.

This area of healthcare management can involve long hours, being on call outside office hours, and the ability to stay calm under sustained pressure.

When the clinic, unit, home, or hospital you are responsible for is open long hours or even 24/7, you are likely to be asked to work out of hours at times.

If this type of role would not suit your lifestyle, there are plenty of other roles in the healthcare industry that do not involve such a demanding work schedule.

The wide range of roles available in the healthcare sector means that it can suit people with many different skill sets.

There are many openings to get into the industry, and once you are working in the field of healthcare, there are plenty of opportunities for development and progression and to move into different areas or specializations within the sector.

For example, digital technology is playing an increasingly important role in the healthcare industry, creating new roles for tech experts to join and develop solutions to problems in the sector, from issues with data management to automation in the provision of healthcare services.

There is also a growing emphasis on preventative healthcare. The potential benefits in this area are considerable, with the scope to improve population health, improve patient outcomes, ease the pressures on the overburdened healthcare system, and reduce overall costs.

Designing and implementing policies and solutions to support this requires high levels of strategic thinking, vision, creativity, and leadership.

The healthcare industry is very heavily regulated in the US. Ensuring compliance with all aspects of government regulation can be an onerous responsibility, but it is an essential one.

This aspect of healthcare management requires close attention to detail as failure to comply can lead to prosecutions or fines.

Options for specialist career fields in healthcare administration and management include:

• Compliance
• Human resources
• Information systems
• Operations (e.g., for a hospital or physician’s practice)
• Planning and development
• Policy
• Purchasing
• Quality assurance
• Risk management and safety

Variety

No two days are the same when you work in healthcare. Each day brings fresh challenges and fresh rewards.

Your day could involve anything from meeting with staff and liaising with suppliers or investors to presenting at board meetings.

You will not work directly with patients, but everything you do will have an impact on them.

The healthcare sector is continually evolving, with new conditions and treatments and innovative technology bringing further change. This can make the role both demanding and exciting.

Managing anomalous events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, adds to the already complex nature of working in the healthcare sector.

However, it can help you to develop skills that you can lean on in future situations.

If you have the resilience to deal with long hours and, at times, a stressful and fast-paced environment, then a career in healthcare management can be very rewarding.

Attractive Salary and Benefits

Medical and healthcare services roles command good salaries.

In 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that this sector had an average annual salary of $118,800, while in hospital settings, the median salary was $127,330.

Senior healthcare executives can easily expect to earn $200,000, and often significantly more, depending on the type of organization.

In addition to annual salaries, many employees in healthcare roles have a wider compensation package, which may include cash bonuses or stock options.

Job Security

There is a huge and growing demand for healthcare professionals. This is true right across the industry, from nurses and physicians to healthcare managers.

The demand for healthcare workers is set to grow significantly for the rest of the decade and beyond.

Factors such as the aging population in the US, the Affordable Care Act, and more complex health needs are contributing to the extra demand for healthcare.

With increasing life expectancy, people are, on average, requiring care for more years, as well as often having more ailments and conditions requiring treatment with aging.

For example, the demand for nurses in the US is projected to increase by 9% between 2020 and 2030. There are currently not enough nurses entering the profession to fill the growing number of job vacancies.

This is partly due to shortages of nursing educators, which is being aggravated by the overall shortage, with fewer experienced nurses available to move on into education. Demand for physicians is also outstripping supply.

The Association of American Medical Colleges published data from 2020 that indicated that the US could see a shortfall of up to 139,000 physicians by 2033 across both primary care and specialty care.

These shortages are sizeable, but for healthcare management, the demand is projected to be far higher still. Demand is anticipated to grow by 32% between 2020 and 2030.

Demand is predicted to be highest for roles in information technology and for medical group practice managers.

With this scale of increase in the need for people to fill roles in this sector, it is considered recession-proof. There has never been a better time to start or progress your career in healthcare management.

Work Anywhere

The healthcare sector is so vast and far-reaching that it opens up employment opportunities to you right across the US and beyond.

Graduates from a master’s healthcare program will be able to find employment in any state, either in cities or in rural areas, and even in other parts of the world.

Every country has some form of healthcare provision, so if you would like to work outside the US, you are likely to be able to find roles where your experience is relevant and valued.

Job Satisfaction

Despite the fact that careers in healthcare are demanding, people working in the sector generally report high levels of job satisfaction. They know that their job is beneficial to the community.

The challenges that healthcare workers face are offset by the reward of knowing that patients are getting the care they need.

Difficulties such as shortages of personnel, budget constraints, and sourcing equipment present ongoing obstacles to achieving goals.

However, when you are delivering on your goals and healthcare provision is being made available efficiently to those who need it, working in healthcare management can be highly rewarding.

Many people working in healthcare also place a high value on being part of a team of individuals all pulling together to deliver the best outcomes possible for their patients.

Transferrable Skills

Much of the experience you gain working in the healthcare sector will be relevant to other sectors.

This means that should you decide to move on from healthcare at some point in the future, you will be in a strong position to be recruited into another industry.

Healthcare management is well-respected, and having this type of employment on your resume will indicate to prospective employers outside the sector that they can expect you to have a well-rounded skill set, including high levels of resilience and good problem-solving skills.

Qualifications Required for a Career in Healthcare Management

The qualifications you need to work in healthcare management vary according to the specific role, but most roles at the managerial level will require a bachelor’s degree as a minimum.

If you want to study for a master’s degree in healthcare management, you will need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school, but it is not mandatory for the degree to be in a related subject.

Some healthcare managers will have specialized degrees – for example, if they began their career in the healthcare industry in a role such as nursing.

A nurse with a BSN would be in a position to make the transition into healthcare administration.

Others will have started out in healthcare management with a degree in health services. In either case, a postgraduate degree, such as an online Executive Master of Health Administration, is ideal for furthering your career in healthcare management.

For more senior roles, a master’s degree may be a requirement rather than optional – for example, hospital management or executive nursing positions.

Executive Master of Health Administration

The Online Telfer Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA) is run by the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management and is designed to prepare you for and support you in leadership roles in healthcare management.

The program provides a rounded education in business management and health, focusing on building your skills in the areas of data, innovation, technology, leadership, and policy development.

Course studies are completed online, with the exception of the final week of the program, which is spent on campus for an immersive interactive experience with peers, faculty, alumni, and sponsors.

How Long Does an EMHA or MBA in Healthcare Management Take?

The duration of a healthcare MBA varies by school. Some full-time programs last for two years, but some schools also offer accelerated programs.

If you choose to study part-time for an MBA in healthcare management, then the course will take longer – often up to three years.

What Background Do EMHA Students Have?

People studying for an EMHA or MBA in healthcare come from diverse work sectors.

Some will be physicians who are looking to add new skills to their portfolio with a view to moving into managerial roles in the future.

Healthcare MBA programs are ideal for nurses who wish to progress their careers – for example, for leadership roles – or who have a career shift in mind into another field within the health sector.

Your MBA student group may also include people who do not have a background in healthcare but who are keen to move into the industry.

Given that thousands of jobs in a wide variety of roles are being created in healthcare management every year, it is not surprising that many people from different walks of life are looking for a route into a career in this sector.

With the added advantages of security, good compensation, and the rewarding nature of the work, the healthcare sector has plenty of attractions for high-caliber individuals.

Experience Required

For some managerial roles, you will be expected to have frontline work experience.

For example, nursing experience would be a prerequisite for applying for a role as a clinical manager in a nursing department.

However, for many healthcare management positions, the requirement would be broader, and more general work experience in the sector would be perfectly adequate.

Strong leadership and other transferrable skills will be particularly important for anyone joining from outside the sector, as you have more to prove and will need to demonstrate to people within the sector that you can quickly acquire the knowledge and understanding required for the role.

Soft Skills for Healthcare Management

People who choose a career in healthcare management and administration would be expected to have the following skills:

• Strong communication skills (both written and spoken)
• Leadership
• Creativity and vision
• Problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail

In all avenues of healthcare and no less in management, there is an expectation of continuous self-development and ongoing learning.

Many healthcare organizations will facilitate this through in-service training or tuition support.

Licensing Requirements

Some roles will also require applicants to have a license, and they may need to have passed a national licensing examination.

This could be applicable for specific roles in a nursing home setting. The license would be recognized across all states.

Where Do Healthcare Managers Work?

Around 33% of health services and medical managers in the US were working in hospitals in 2020, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

There are also many roles in physician’s practices, dental clinics, nursing homes and assisted living facilities and many other healthcare-related settings.

There are also openings for healthcare management graduates and executives in a range of related careers in sectors and organizations such as:

• Federal agencies
• Health insurance
• Management consulting
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Professional societies

With so many different roles and prospects for development in healthcare administration and management, it is easy to see the attraction of working in this industry.

Do you want to negotiate a better salary for yourself but aren’t sure where to start?

There are many reasons why you want more money. Perhaps you are looking to tackle your debt or lower your mortgage payments. Or maybe you have some big dreams that a higher salary can help you achieve.

Check out these 10 tips that will help you feel more confident and prepared when it’s time to talk numbers with your boss.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to get the pay raise you deserve!

1. Know Your Worth

When it comes to salary negotiations, knowledge is power. You need to know what your skills, experience, and expertise are worth in the marketplace.

Research salary ranges for similar positions and compares them to your own salary history. This will give you a good idea of what you should be earning – and what you can realistically expect to earn.

2. Do Your Homework

Before salary negotiations begin, do your homework. Find out as much as you can about the company, its financial situation and the salary range for the position you’re applying for.

The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be to negotiate a salary that meets your needs.

3. Be Prepared to Negotiate

Once you have a salary range in mind, it’s time to start negotiating. Be prepared to discuss your salary history and explain why you deserve the salary you’re asking for.

Be confident and assertive, but avoid being confrontational. Remember, the goal is to reach a salary agreement that’s fair for both you and the company.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for More

Don’t be afraid to ask for more than the initial salary offer. If you feel like you deserve it, make your case and try to negotiate a higher salary.

However, be realistic and don’t ask for an outrageous salary – otherwise, you may price yourself out of the job.

5. Be Flexible

If you can’t seem to reach a salary agreement, be prepared to compromise. If the company is unwilling to meet your salary demands, try negotiating for other benefits, such as more vacation days, flexible hours, or telecommuting options.

6. Know Your Bottom Line

This is the lowest salary you’re willing to accept, and it’s important to have this number in mind before you start talking numbers with a potential employer.

If the company isn’t willing to meet your salary demands, be prepared to walk away from the job. It’s better to hold out for a salary that you’re happy with than to end up in a job that doesn’t pay enough.

Salary negotiating is all about finding the right balance, and knowing your bottom line is an essential part of the process.

7. Don’t Accept the First Offer

If a company offers you a salary that’s lower than what you were hoping for, don’t accept it right away.

Instead, counter-offer with a salary that’s more in line with your expectations. If the company is still unwilling to meet your salary demands, you can always walk away from the job.

8. Consider the Whole Package

When salary negotiating, it’s important to consider the whole package – not just your salary.

If a company offers you a lower salary than what you were hoping for, try to negotiate for other benefits, such as more vacation days, flexible hours, or telecommuting options.

These benefits can be just as valuable as a higher salary, and they’re often negotiable.

9. Focus on the Future

When salary negotiating, it’s important to focus on the future. Instead of discussing your current salary, try to negotiate a salary that reflects your future potential.

This can be especially effective if you’re changing careers or industries. By focusing on your future potential, you can negotiate a salary that reflects your long-term value to the company.

10. Get It In Writing

Once you’ve reached a salary agreement, make sure it’s in writing. This will protect you in the future and ensure that both you and the company are clear on the terms of the agreement.

A written agreement will also help to avoid any misunderstandings down the road.

Takeaway

These are just a few salary negotiation tips to keep in mind when discussing salary with a potential employer.

By doing your homework, being prepared, and knowing your bottom line, you’ll be in a good position to negotiate a salary that meets your needs.

Salary negotiation is all about finding the right balance, and with these tips, you’ll be one step closer to landing the job – and salary – you deserve.

If you’re looking to gain employment after your studies, you may consider adding a leadership qualification to your resume.

Many people think that leadership qualifications are only good for becoming a manager at a company and don’t offer any valuable skills used in other positions.

However, there are several hidden benefits of holding a leadership qualification that most people aren’t aware of and don’t even think about when looking for work.

Here are things you can do with your leadership qualification that you have probably never considered before:

Enhance Your Skills

When you study leadership, you learn more than just how to be a leader. You also develop skills such as problem-solving, public speaking, and strategic thinking.

These are all highly sought-after skills in the workplace as they demonstrate your creativity and initiative. You may acquire these skills by attending workshops or reading books on leadership, but it’s also worth looking at courses related to the subject.

For example, the Spalding University EdD program offers various coursework for learners who want to enhance their leadership skills and knowledge. This program covers topics such as decision-making, empowering others, influencing others, and change management.

Once you graduate from the program, you can use your newfound skills to take on the entrepreneur or business executive roles.

Gain Practical Knowledge

You’ll gain essential knowledge and skills in marketing, HR, finance, and project management – but that’s just the start.

A leadership qualification can also give you the practical tools to help you communicate better, think strategically, and make tough decisions under pressure – all of which are highly sought-after skills in today’s competitive job market.

Expand Your Network

A leadership qualification can introduce you to a new network of like-minded professionals. You’ll find yourself meeting people in different industries, learning about their experiences, and getting more insight into your enterprise.

Additionally, you’ll get the chance to meet potential employers that may be looking for someone with your experience. That way, when the time comes to move on from your current job, you’ll have many options.

Add Credibility to Your Resume

In addition to the skills and knowledge you’ll learn, a leadership certification credential can add credibility to your resume.

If you’re looking to move up or switch careers entirely, a leadership qualification can give you the edge you need to stand out from the competition.

Develop Your Leadership Style

Most people think of leadership as a trait that some people are born with, and while that may be partially true, it’s also something that you can develop.

You will learn the most up-to-date skills needed to lead an organization into the future.

Also, a leadership qualification will help you develop your style and teach you how to influence others effectively.

Parting Shot

Regarding job hunting, having a leadership qualification on your CV can be the difference between getting your foot in the door and being overlooked.

By developing your skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and team-building, you will be able to set yourself apart from the competition in any field.

Nursing practice or nursing is a noble profession for people to serve mankind in need and in distress.

Nursing practitioners (NP) and nurses form the pillar of any country’s healthcare system, making up about one-third of the entire health workforce.

There is a significant shortage of effective primary health care and access to basic healthcare services for millions of people, especially the poorest.

It is very evident that nurse practitioners are in great demand. At the same time, people who choose the noble profession of nursing also look at their career advancement options.

Nurses with a basic degree in nursing practice can move on to an advanced degree and specialize, like other professions, as family nurse practitioners (FNPs), among other options.

FNPs provide a full range of advanced and personalized services to patients, from infants to the elderly.

One may ask: “Is becoming a family nurse practitioner worth it?”

Let’s first understand what a family nurse practitioner is and what an FNP’s role is before covering if becoming an FNP is worth it.

What Is a Family Nurse Practitioner?

In order to understand this profession, we have to begin with understanding what a family nurse practitioner is.

FNPs are registered nursing practitioners with a specialized master’s education and advanced knowledge in nursing practice. They are certified higher-level nurses that provide primary, specialty, and advanced health care for patients of all ages.

With further knowledge in health education and with a focus on health care promotion and support, family nurse practitioners fill a crucial gap in the healthcare system to meet the shortage of medical professionals.

An FNP provides advanced nursing services for individuals and families of diverse ages and backgrounds, often the underprivileged, throughout their lifespan.

This is a win-win for both the FNPs and their patients.

It is especially rewarding for those people who have chosen to serve their community and who enjoy developing long-term relationships with people over time.

The people and families attached to an FNP also develop confidence in FNPs, feel safer and lead a healthy life.

FNPs have a gratifying career professionally, and personally, that is financially rewarding also. FNPs have a high degree of autonomy and, in some cases, have their own private practices.

They provide most of the basic services a family doctor provides and are the primary first point of care for many patients.

Family Nurse Practitioner’s Package

FNPs have a more advanced education than registered practicing nurses and command higher packages/salaries.

According to a recent survey, the average salary of a new family nurse practitioner is typically above $100,000 per year, and the maximum can be twice that or more.

Normally, FNPs make 1.2 to 1.5 times more than registered nursing professionals. FNP salaries are based on geographical location, type of employer, and level of experience.

Savvy FNPs who wish to go into private practice can develop lucrative private practices as FNPs with professional advice from accountants and legal professionals.

Family nurse practitioners, depending on the country or state legislations and practice guidelines, enjoy varying degrees of autonomy.

The overall autonomy of family nurse practitioners far exceeds that of registered nurses, allowing them to provide complete care to patients by diagnosing and treating them in supportive and flexible work environments.

Overall, family nurse practitioners enjoy high levels of job satisfaction within the profession and provide medical care at a lower cost.

What Is the Role of FNPs?

Family nurse practitioners play many diverse roles and have responsibilities toward the patients under their care.

These are the nurse practitioners who are certified to operate with autonomy and independence. They earn significantly higher incomes and enjoy high levels of job satisfaction and respect from other health professionals.

A family nurse practitioner provides family-focused nursing care. They are frequently the primary health care provider for families, which means that they will not only diagnose conditions of family members but also may treat them.

Family care means that they take care of patients ranging in age from infants to the elderly and every age in between in the family.

The healthcare services that an FNP provides are multifaceted, from sickness to injuries or simply age-related, and are always patient-centric.

An FNP also offers knowledge to families, and society at large, about personal care and hygiene, a healthy lifestyle, good and bad habits, and disease prevention.

FNPs provide a second line of medical care. In addition to nursing care provided by NPs, such as assisting doctors in treating their patients, dressing, and administering doctor-prescribed medications, FNPs can perform some of the doctor’s roles.

They can perform physical examinations of the sick, order diagnostic tests and procedures, diagnose disease, provide treatment for sickness and prescribe needed medications.

They educate their patients about developing healthy lifestyles to promote health and prevent disease.

The role of FNPs, over and above NPs, may include, but is not limited to, the following:

• Provide primary health care and education about preventative care
• Maintain patient records
• Examine the medical history of patients
• Assess health conditions and provide diagnosis
• Conduct physical examinations
• Order and interpret lab and other diagnostic tests
• Diagnose illnesses or diseases
• Develop and follow up on treatment plans for acute and chronic illnesses
• Prescribe/administer medication and other therapies
• Perform or assist with minor procedures
• Refer to appropriate practitioners/specialists when needed
• Educate patients on preventive methods, general health, hygiene, and wellness
• Manage and oversee patient care
• Act as the primary point of contact to provide primary care in rural or underserved areas
• Cooperate with other healthcare providers, including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, and healthcare administrators

The role of a family nurse practitioner is very similar to that of a primary health care physician. FNPs are able to work independently as well as able to collaborate with medical professionals and all others in the healthcare team.

How to Become a Family Nurse Practitioner

To become a family nurse practitioner, one needs to invest money and commit time to go through extensive educational training.

It is an investment worth itself that will reward you in many different ways. It may take up to eight years to become an FNP.

The time required to become a family nurse practitioner can vary depending upon the path taken to pursue the degree, such as full-time or part-time, and in person or online.

NPs with years of experience are ideal candidates to become family nurse practitioners.

After earning a four-to-five year bachelor’s degree in nursing practice through a program that is duly accredited by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) or the National League for Nursing (NLN) or another authorized agency for nursing education, one should become licensed as a registered nurse or nursing practitioner by the appropriate agency.

Registered nursing practitioners can then start working and gain two to three years of clinical experience in providing care for patients.

After gaining experience in handling people from the cradle to the grave, a two- to three-year master’s degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) is required from an institution accredited for the Family Nursing Practitioner program.

The program can be a full-time or a part-time degree program, and students can take classes in traditional campus settings or online, which often includes both classroom learning and hands-on patient clinical learning.

There are many accredited schools of nursing and universities offering accredited master’s programs that can help you in meeting your career goals to become a family nurse practitioner.

The list of schools and universities offering FNP accredited master’s programs, or the equivalent, can be easily found online.

Making the decision to enroll in a master’s program is a critical decision, so make sure that any university you select is accredited by the appropriate councils or other regulatory bodies.

To become certified as an FNP after earning a master’s degree, one has to pass the FNP certification exam held by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners (AANP), or the equivalent authorized agency in other countries.

You will receive either an FNP-BC certification or the FNP-C certification (or other certification), depending on the exam you pass.

The eligibility for these certifications requires, in addition to the above experience and qualifications, a certain number of hours of supervised clinical experience. The certificate also requires ratification after a specified number of years.

FNPs typically study a variety of courses in epidemiology, pharmacology, health policy, differential diagnosis, and primary care, clinical diagnosis, and more due to the broad nature of the job.

In addition to formal qualifications and experience, FNPs should have skills in the following:

• Strong communication skills (oral and written) and an empathetic nature
• Critical thinking
• Interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
• Experience in managing health records electronically
• Ability to work effectively in a team setting, providing relationship-based care
• Ability to establish relationships with co-workers, patients, and the public

Family Nurse Practitioner Jobs

A family nurse practitioner can work in a variety of healthcare settings and clinics. As they provide many advanced medical services, they are extremely valuable as they are able to perform several tasks that are usually handled by physicians.

In fact, in many rural areas, if there is a shortage of doctors to serve the community, FNPs can fill the gap and provide primary care. A hospital administrator is another possible career for FNPs due to their advanced medical knowledge and clinical experience.

As FNPs have advanced nursing practice qualifications and licenses, they find career opportunities in a variety of settings, including:

• Academia
• Clinics
• Community health
• Correctional facilities
• Government sector
• Home health care
• Nursing homes
• Health insurance companies
• Hospitals
• Long-term care facilities
• Nurse-managed health care
• Outpatient care
• Private practice physicians’ clinic
• School clinics
• Telemedicine
• Urgent care

Family Nurse Practitioners are in demand for jobs in administration, making policy, and education, in addition to working directly with patients to offer treatment.

Notably, because nurse practitioners have the freedom to practice independently in many states, they have been able to close the huge care gap for patients in rural areas that is caused by the acute physician shortage.

In some communities, family nurse practitioners have stepped in to deliver crucial preventative care.

Is Becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner Worth It?

Having learned all about the family nurse practitioner, we come to the most important question that comes to everyone’s mind, “Is becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner worth it?” We can say, yes, it is.

Here are some of the top benefits of being an FNP:

Family nurse practitioners are in demand.

In the last few years, every country has experienced a shortage of primary nursing care, especially in rural areas.

Adding to the shortage is the fact that a large number of registered nurses with experience are moving to higher qualifications and becoming FNPs. In the US alone, there has been an increase in the demand for FNPs.

The demand is projected to grow by 52% between 2019 and 2029, and FNPs will be highly sought after. FNPs are in high demand as healthcare practitioners because of the growing emphasis on preventative care and the aging population’s increased demand for medical services.

It is a fulfilling career choice because of the compensation and the opportunity to form lifelong ties with patients.

Family nurse practitioners enjoy significant financial advantages.

Family nurse practitioners offer primary, acute, and specialized healthcare as advanced clinicians.

The knowledge and clinical competencies of NPs are superior to those of ADN- or BSN-prepared nurses since they have graduate-level education through either a master’s or doctoral degree. Significant pay inequalities result from variations in educational readiness.

FNPs provide safe, effective, patient-centric, and evidence-based care compared to their physician colleagues, and they are in the right position to fulfill any gap left in the healthcare industry because of the shortage of primary care physicians.

Additionally, FNPs are licensed, independent care providers that make up the most rapidly growing component of the primary care workforce.

In some countries, more than 80% of nursing practitioners are family nurse practitioners who provide high-quality, cost-effective primary care.

Conclusion

A career as an FNP provides a satisfying work-life balance and offers room for career advancement.

The top advantages of being a family nurse practitioner include high demand, high pay, and high levels of autonomy and job satisfaction.

Many young people are sold the dream of studying hard, earning good grades, and going to college to earn the degree they need to land their ideal job.

For some, that’s the exact route they go on to achieve, but for others, this formula is simply not attainable. Life often has a way of disrupting even the hardiest of plans.

However, you are never too old to study and enhance your job prospects – and opportunities to learn online are available to most of us.

The reality can be somewhat difficult. People with busy 9-to-5 careers, young families to take care of, and busy lives to lead may argue that they simply don’t have the time to take on an extra course of study.

However, many of us would be amazed at how much time we waste by procrastinating or mindlessly scrolling through our social media feeds.

Could we put that time to better use? Distance learning courses are more flexible than you might think.

An online journalism master’s degree, for example, can be studied completely at home and at a pace that suits you. The course is designed to fit your day-to-day schedule, not the other way around.

Many online degrees allow you to graduate within 18 months, which means you won’t have to spend years waiting to finally get your hands on your certification.

If you’d like to know more about online study courses, here are some other advantages to using your laptop at home to earn a degree.

Communicate with Ease

The internet is perhaps not all it’s cracked up to be at times, but in terms of being able to communicate with people all over the world, the web has been an outstanding innovation.

One of the primary concerns for long-distance students is that they fear they are going to miss out on the interactions that on-campus learners have with tutors, mentors, or their fellow students.

However, online learning can bridge that gap using a variety of tools, whether it’s video platforms such as Skype or Zoom or dedicated whiteboard portals where learners are free to communicate with their peers and tutors directly.

These services are quick, easy to use, and free of charge, and while they perhaps don’t replicate the benefits of speaking to somebody face to face, they are a pretty good alternative for those pursuing an online course!

Those who choose to take this path will find themselves in good company.

The latest stats suggest that more than seven million people in America are undertaking a distance learning course, so it is evident that this is a way of advancing your career or simply learning more about an area of interest in a manner that is becoming increasingly commonplace.

Suit Your Schedule

Another misconception about distance learning is that your life will be overtaken by study sessions and writing assignments, which means you’ll have to say goodbye to your social life, hobbies, and time spent with friends and family.

However, nothing could be further from the truth. Institutions that offer online degree courses understand that many of their students want and need complete flexibility, and that’s why many modes of study are completely malleable.

You can slot in tutorials, lectures, and other forms of learning on days to suit you, whether you have a job, a young family, or other commitments to attend to.

What is interesting about undertaking an online degree course is that it equips you with valuable skills beyond your qualification.

Time management, balancing different projects, and being able to work independently are just three skills that employers seek from their staff.

Therefore, distance learning can enhance your employability in more ways than just the certificate with your name on it at the end of your course.

Quality of Education

Some people wonder whether learning online means they have to suffer in terms of the quality of their education compared to on-campus learners.

That may have been true in the past, but thanks to the internet, it is easy to watch videos, actively participate in live discussions, download course materials, exchange ideas on message boards, and communicate with instructors via tools such as WhatsApp and Facetime.

An added bonus is that class sizes tend to be much smaller with online courses, so you can access a more personalized learning experience, as opposed to being just another number on a crowded campus.

As you can see, there is no need for your quality of education to suffer through online learning.

In fact, many traditional forms of study are increasingly incorporating online elements as well, so there’s an increasing reliance on technology no matter how you choose to learn these days.

A Cost-Effective Education

One of the perks of going to college for younger learners is the chance to experience life away from home for the first time.

However, the decision to live on campus or in private accommodation comes with its associated costs, and they can be eye-wateringly high.

To study from home, all you need is a computer and an internet connection; any other tools you choose to deploy are up to you.

It really is the most cost-effective way to earn a qualification in your chosen course of study, making online learning a great option for those on lower budgets or with other financial commitments.

Increase Your Employability

Plenty of people undertake further education as a hobby or to increase their learning of a specific subject.

For the most part, however, the main rationale behind earning an online degree is to improve your employability – whether it’s to increase your job prospects at the company you work for (or the industry they operate in) or to make a complete career change and getting a fresh start.

The hard work and effort that goes into an online degree course can yield plenty of rewards in the long run.

Tips for Effective Online Learning

As we have learned, there are many good reasons to embark on an online degree course, and having a busy life is not a valid excuse for putting it on the back burner.

The flexibility in scheduling ensures that distance learning is for everyone – no matter how your days shape up.

If you are still concerned about how you could fit everything in, here are some tips on how to get the very best out of your online studies without compromising in other areas of your life.

Be Organized

Even though the conditions of an online degree are different from a more traditional mode of study, that’s not to say that your approach should change in any way.

You should approach your learning as you would in any other course. You must ensure that you give yourself plenty of time to complete assignments and other degree work, but you should also make sure that you have downtime to live your life to the fullest.

Drawing up a schedule, whether it is a couple of days or a handful of weeks in advance, will help you to better plan your time and help you enjoy the flexibility to juggle as many metaphorical balls as possible.

Location, Location, Location

It is remarkable just how different we all are when it comes to studying. Some of us need complete silence to work effectively, whereas others actively seek out background noise to help them concentrate on the task at hand.

Some students need an office-style desk and computer setup to afford them a professional way of thinking, while others are happy enough just bunkering down in bed with their laptop and an endless supply of coffee.

The point is that we are all different when it comes to maximizing our productivity and potential, and you, as an individual, need to seek out the kind of remote working environment from which you can achieve your best output without distractions.

It is recommended that you create a workspace that will help you to switch your brain into study mode.

Whether that means decluttering the spare room, creating a new space in a corner of your living room or simply removing all the junk lying on top of your desk, your productivity will ultimately increase if you have created a mindful environment.

Others may choose to work in an external place away from home. It could be a library, a coffee shop or even the local park.

Whatever works for you in terms of getting you in the right frame of mind to study should be your “happy place” that will power you through your online degree.

Eliminate Distractions

Look up any research study into how productive remote workers are compared to working at the office, and you might be surprised to learn that there is no significant drop-off in output.

However, that is not to say that home working doesn’t require a tremendous amount of discipline and fortitude – especially when there’s Netflix, game consoles, and other distractions lurking in the corner of your eye.

To get the most out of your studies, you really need to eliminate these distractions as best as you can. Procrastination can lead to you picking up your phone, which in turn can lead to minutes spent scrolling through social media and watching cat videos.

Those minutes can add up and ultimately undermine your ability to get the best out of your study time.

Turning your phone to silent mode and putting it in a drawer or another room could prove to be savvy – out of sight, out of mind.

If you really need your handset close by, you can use dedicated apps that enable you to silence specific apps and websites for a given period, which means you won’t be on the receiving end of those concentration-busting notifications.

Build Networks

It goes without saying that the vast majority of your learning will come via the course materials, lectures and tutorials.

Nevertheless, you really shouldn’t underestimate the power of peer-to-peer learning, with your classmates often able to break down topics that you are struggling to comprehend in a more manageable way than academics who have been teaching the subject for years.

There is no doubt that actively engaging in discourse will improve your understanding and perhaps even enhance your enjoyment of your degree.

Many online courses will have forums and discussion boards related to your subject, and these are a great place to stop by, make friends and discuss any areas of your learning that you are struggling with.

If the forum or discussion board is quiet, don’t be afraid to be the first to post a topic there.

Many times, distance learners can be shy when it comes to engaging with their fellow classmates who, for the most part, they may never have met in person before.

Make it a part of your daily study time to log on to the forum and read and reply to any messages, as this will help to stimulate conversation that could unlock the door in terms of your understanding of the subject matter.

Sometimes, all we need is the reassurance that others are feeling the same as we are when assignments are mounting up, or exam dates are looming.

These online groups are an invaluable resource both in your learning and your personal wellbeing, so don’t be too quick to dismiss them.

Be Good to Yourself

You don’t need to be a budding biologist to know that the human brain has different receptors and that one of those is linked to rewards.

In short, we all release endorphins when we sense that a reward is incoming, and this scientific process can be used in your studying.

Commit to spending a certain period of time studying, safe in the knowledge that you will do something you enjoy at the end of the session.

It could even be something as simple as having a drink or a bite to eat outside for 15 minutes – anything that recharges the mind and body.

You can use rewards as motivational tools, too. There’s nothing wrong with that, and these can stimulate you to learn better when facing bigger assignments.

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

This list of tips for studying effectively, even when you are busy with other commitments, would be incomplete without mentioning the importance of a healthy body and mind.

If you eat healthy food and exercise on a regular basis, studies have proven that you can concentrate for longer periods of time without hitting a metaphorical wall.

A healthy lifestyle can actually help you to retain information more effectively, too, which any online student will confirm is of paramount importance.

Chaining yourself to your desk is a bad idea for a number of reasons, and it is vital that you get outside as often as you can.

The sun’s rays, even on non-sunny days, emit vitamin D, which is vital for energy and to help your body power itself.

It may be tempting to call for takeout when you’re snowed under with work. After all, who wants to spend time cooking after studying for hours on end?

Once again, however, what you put into your body will ultimately be reflected in what you get out of it. Healthy meals are just as important when it comes to studying.

Taking regular breaks from your screens will do wonders for your eyes, too. If you suffer from headaches, scheduling regular rest intervals can help you alleviate this problem.

See the Bigger Picture

There are moments in any mode of study where the workload feels challenging, where you are struggling with a particular topic, or where you simply don’t feel there is enough time in the day to get everything done.

Try not to worry. You may be surprised by how many people feel the same way as you do.

The beauty of online degree courses is that you are never alone, and help – whether it is practical in nature from an instructor or motivational from your fellow classmates – is never far away, thanks to the wonders of modern technology.

It’s important to focus on the reason that you decided to undertake your online degree in the first place.

We’ve already touched upon what this might be – from furthering your career and bolstering your resumé to enhancing your understanding of a particular subject.

It is always worth reminding yourself of this bigger picture when the going gets tough in your studies.

In the end, securing your online degree could be the best thing that ever happens to you from a career standpoint. It is a commitment, and it will be tough at times, but the rewards speak for themselves – and you’d be amazed by how easily you can flexibly fit studies into your busy lifestyle.

Did you know that the IRS processed more than 260 million tax returns in 2021?

If you have an accounting background and you enjoy working as a tax preparer, then you’re in a prime position to start your own tax preparation business.

Having skills in accounting makes you valuable as many people don’t have the knowledge or the patience to learn how to become a tax preparer.

Starting your own tax preparation business might sound intimidating on the surface, but it’s an opportunity to become your own boss and have a flexible schedule while making good money.

The good news is that you’re in the right place to learn all about how to get your tax preparation business up and running.

Keep reading to learn more today!

Get Your GED

If you haven’t already, you’ll need to get your high school diploma or GED in order to start your career as a professional tax preparer.

You don’t need to have a college degree in order to handle business tax preparation, though being able to put that on your resume could make you more competitive when you start applying for jobs.

Get Training

You’ll want to take some time to train at a vocational school or community college to hone your skills as a tax preparer.

Choosing to take a tax preparation course will ensure that you have the knowledge necessary to handle business tax preparation.

Make sure that you learn about filing status, taxpayer interviews, your state’s tax codes, how to calculate refunds, and the different types of tax forms.

Having all of that knowledge will make starting a tax preparation business a breeze.

Get Your ID Number

Another step toward starting a tax preparation business is getting a Preparer Tax Identification Number. This step involves filling out an application with the IRS.

It includes your personal information like your name and social security number. Once your application is approved, you can start filing basic customer tax returns.

Get a Tax Preparer License

The last step of getting your tax preparation business up and running is getting your tax preparer license in your state.

States like California, Oregon, New York, and Nevada require you to get a state license in addition to the PTIN that you receive from the IRS.

California asks you to take 20 hours of continued training each year to maintain your license. It’s always a good idea to check requirements with your state before starting your business.

Start Your Tax Preparation Business Today!

Now that you know the requirements for starting a tax preparation business, there is nothing left to do but take the plunge.

Make sure that you get licensed as a tax preparer with the IRS. It’s also wise to check with your state to see if they have any requirements before getting started.

For more engaging and eye-opening content just like this article, check out the rest of our blog posts!

Becoming a working adult is a big milestone. It’s when many people start taking their finances seriously and trying to learn as much as they can about money management.

If you’re just starting out, it can be tough to know where to begin. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

Below, Your Debt Expert breakdown the top financial lessons every working adult should know.

Alongside helping hundreds get their finances back on track, Your Debt Expert provide information on everything from mortgage debt to how long does an IVA last.

Here are the eight financial lessons every working adult should know.

1. Always Have a Budget

Personal finance is an important life skill that everyone should learn. One of the most important aspects of personal finance is budgeting.

Having a budget helps you to know how much money you have coming in and going out each month so that you can avoid overspending and getting into debt.

There are many different ways to create a budget, but the most important thing is to be honest with yourself about your income and expenses.

Once you have a realistic budget in place, stick to it as much as possible.

2. Invest in Yourself

Investing in yourself is one of the best things you can do for your financial future.

This can mean different things for different people, but some examples include taking courses to improve your job skills, investing in a solid financial education, or starting your own business.

When you invest in yourself, you increase your earnings potential and set yourself up for financial success.

3. Save for Retirement

It’s never too early to start saving for retirement. If your employer offers a retirement savings plan, make sure to contribute at least enough to get the employer match.

If you don’t have access to a retirement savings plan at work, there are still plenty of other options. The important thing is to start saving early and to contribute as much as you can afford.

4. Have an Emergency Fund

Unexpected financial emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. That’s why it’s important to have an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.

Aim to save enough money to cover at least 3-6 months of living expenses. This will help you avoid going into debt if you have a financial emergency.

5. Make a Plan

When it comes to personal finance, it’s important to have a plan. This means setting financial goals and creating a strategy to reach those goals.

Without a plan, making financial decisions that are not in your best interest is easy.

For example, you may spend money on unnecessary things or impulse purchases.

But if you have a financial plan in place, you can make better choices with your money and reach your financial goals.

6. Invest Wisely

Investing is another important aspect of personal finance. When you invest, you are putting your money into something with the hopes of earning a return.

There are many different ways to invest, so it’s important to do some research and find an investment strategy that fits your goals and risk tolerance.

But even if you don’t have a lot of money to invest, options are still available. For example, you can start investing with just a few dollars through investment apps like Acorns or Stash.

7. Be Disciplined

One of the most important financial lessons is to be disciplined with your money. This means being mindful of your spending and making sure that you are sticking to your budget.

It can be difficult to be disciplined with your finances, but it’s important to remember that financial discipline is key to achieving your financial goals.

8. Seek Professional Help

If you need help with your personal finances, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. There are many financial professionals who can help you with budgeting, investing and other financial matters.

Some financial professionals charge for their services, but there are also many who offer free or low-cost advice. If you need help getting your finances on track, consider seeking professional help.

Conclusion

These are some financial lessons that every working adult should know. By following these tips, you can make better financial decisions and reach your financial goals.