The environmental issues confronting the world today require immediate attention and effective action. The rapidly changing environmental systems and depleting resources are causing substantial concern to government and business leaders around the world. There is no doubt that critical decisions are warranted and radical changes are required. The development of policies by industry leaders and government officials need to address the critical environmental problems and to prevent the continued detriment of irresponsible decision making to the environment. The immediate need for educated and knowledgeable individuals who understand the complexities of the environmental issues has caused many of the top universities to initiate programs or to revise existing programs in environmental science and policy for the purpose of producing graduates with an ethical and comprehensive understanding of the impact of society on the environment and the need for responsible action.

1. Indiana University – Bloomington

The School of Public and Environmental Affairs has earned its place as the top ranked institution of higher learning in public affairs and environmental studies because of its commitment to research and superior academic curriculum addressing the most critical and pressing issues facing the world today. The programs are structured to prepare graduates to become effective leaders dedicated to serving the public and discovering productive, viable solutions to the complex environmental issues. The faculty members are renowned experts and researchers who also serve as advisors to the students they teach. Students of Indiana University benefit from the extensive affiliations with private industry companies, governmental entities and various community organizations from which they can attain valuable industry knowledge and gain network connections.

The sixty credit dual Master of Science in Environmental Science and Master of Public Affairs degree program links two disciplines integral to the success of future leaders in environmental policy. Individually, each curriculum for the two majors is ranked as the top program in the nation. The combined program provides an exceptional and distinctive educational program. Students will be required to complete core courses in each of the two program areas and select a concentration in one of three options. One option permits students to develop a program focused on policy. The student will be expected to complete 9 to 12 credits in the concentration. Each student will be required to complete a capstone project. Students enrolled in the program are afforded extensive course flexibility and permits students to complete the degree within two and half to three and a half years.

2. Duke University

The Nicholas School at Duke University was established in the late 1930’s and is regarded as one of the premier schools of environmental science and policy studies. Through the collaborative efforts of the college’s 56 expert faculty members, scientists and environmental and government leaders, Duke University is committed to finding innovative and effective solutions to the complex environmental problems facing the planet. The university expects to accomplish this goal through research, academic exploration and the education of future leaders in the field. Students are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the inherent complexities of the environmental issues facing the planet to ensure they will become socially responsible and proactive leaders in their professional capacities. The faculty members teaching the courses are world renowned experts and researchers of the environment.

The degree programs in environmental science and policy offered at Duke University are comprehensive; examining the environment in its entirety instead of in segments. The multi- and interdisciplinary and rigorous curriculum ensures students will attain a thorough understanding of the environment, the impact of human actions, the extensive issues and problems associated with the changes caused by human interference and natural evolution and the various approaches by which experts are attempting to address and resolve these concerns and divert potential crises. Duke University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the major. The undergraduate Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Sciences and Policy incorporates the disciplines of natural science and engineering along with studies in social sciences. Courses include probability and statistics, environmental sciences and policy, microeconomics, biological diversity, general chemistry, earth sciences and calculus.

3. Syracuse University

Syracuse University, founded in 1870, has earned recognition for its innovative and bold educational pursuits and its commitment to advancing knowledge, creating solutions and educating future leaders of industry and government. Syracuse endeavors to provide globally relevant academic programs which remain abreast of the societal, academic and technological changes. The Environmental Science and Forestry School of Syracuse University represents these ideas, earning it a top ranking by US News & World Report. The interdisciplinary academic programs provide students with a complex, comprehensive understanding of the fields in which they intend to enter. Students are afforded the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience working collaboratively with field professionals to develop new solutions and policies. The 146 full time faculty members employed by ESF are highly regarded teachers and researchers.

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the extensive environmental issues through interdisciplinary study. The program includes studies in social, scientific and cultural areas to ensure students understand the cause of the environmental issues and are capable of conversing and collaborating effectively with scientists and governmental leaders. The curriculum provides training in the foundational areas essential to becoming a successful policy maker. The program encompasses technical writing, survey research and statistical analysis. The students develop collaborative skills through project work, internships and various community based courses which provide the opportunity to attain proficiency in the necessary skills and requisite areas of study. Students have the opportunity to pursue a graduate degree and an advanced certificate program in the areas of environmental policy and management.

4. Yale University

The Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies was initially established in 1901 for the purpose of educating individuals on forest conservation; eventually evolving to encompass the field of environmental studies in its entirety. Yale University is striving to become the leading environmental institution worldwide through exceptional educational programs and the development of new knowledge through productive research. The collaborative efforts of faculty members and students to disseminate knowledge to the public and raise awareness of the urgency of environmental issues and effective solutions have earned Yale University additional recognition as a premier environmental institution. The strong emphasis on cross-disciplinary studies at Yale provides students with comprehensive educations equipping them with the knowledge and perspective necessary to become effective leaders in the environmental and related fields.

The degree program at Yale University in Environmental Policy and Management encompasses all of the integral aspects of the field. The unique duel degree program earns students two degrees: a Master of Business Administration and Master of Environmental Management. Combining the curriculum for the two disciplines produces graduates knowledgeable in the essential areas of business, policy development and the environment. Students are trained to identify and recognize central environmental and sustainable resource development issues and to develop innovative and constructive viable policies with positive effects. The curriculum includes courses from the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and the School of Management, an internship and a capstone project. Students are expected to choose an area of specialization within the environmental studies which includes policy, economics and law.

5. University of Washington

The University of Washington established their Program on the Environment (PoE) in 1997. Although the discipline was not initially established under a specific school within the university, it is now part of the College of the Environment which was formed in 2009. The unique inter- and multi-disciplinary programs within the department provide an exceptional and comprehensive program which incorporates studies in all disciplines with relevance to the field. The faculty members teaching within the program are established instructors from the other schools within the university, offering expertise in a range of disciplines. The university embraces and encourages collaboration between departments and with industry leaders to promote integrated learning. The University of Washington sponsors seminars and lectures from highly regarded expert guest speakers.

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Studies equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful professionals in the field of environmental policy. Students are required to complete foundational courses in the earth and life sciences, statistics courses and courses in culture. The Capstone requirement can be completed as a group project, an internship, an individual research project or the student can choose to study abroad. The graduate programs in environmental management provide students with the specific skills and academic training to become effective policy makers. Students also have the option of completing the graduate certificate in environmental management as well. The curriculum for both programs provides students with advanced training in physical and life sciences, business, economics and policy.

6. University of California – Berkeley

The University of California at Berkeley is a highly regarded research university with international recognition. The Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management within the University of California endeavors to discover new knowledge of environmental and natural resource systems for the purpose of developing effective solutions to the extensive global issues. The accomplishment of these goals is expected to be realized through the success of complex research projects and by educating and disseminating information to both students and the public. The University of California provides a comprehensive and innovative curriculum. The 59 department faculty members specialize in specific areas of environmental research and serve as leaders to the community, businesses and governments.

The Master of Science in Environmental Science, Policy and Management offered at the University of California provides students with a focused advanced educational program. Students enrolled in the advanced major specialize in one of three areas; organisms and environment, ecosystem sciences and society and environment. The focused programs provide students with the core foundational courses necessary to develop an understanding of the complex field of environmental policy and courses in a specialized area of study that equip graduates with the knowledge needed to complete in depth explorations of the subject through research and professional endeavors. Students have the option of completing a thesis or a non-thesis plan. All students are provided with a guiding committee comprised of two advisors to help develop an appropriate curriculum.

7. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

The School of Natural Resources at the University of Michigan was established in 1950 to protect and study the earth’s natural resources and the environmental problems which require notice and has become an international leader in the field. The urgency of the rapidly evolving environmental issues has prompted the University of Michigan to implement rigorous degree programs in environmental policy; training future leaders in the field capable of informed and effective decision making. Through education and research, the university endeavors to discover new knowledge and methods by which limited natural resources can be conserved and sustained to serve the needs of the global population and to develop new policies and techniques to accomplish this goal.

The Environmental policy degree program provides a thorough and comprehensive curriculum designed to equip student with the leadership skills and knowledge necessary to become effective policy makers. The students will complete coursework in the areas of policy analysis, planning, law, politics, institutions, life and earth sciences and a range of cultural electives. Students will develop skills in problem solving, critical and analytical thinking, dispute resolution, negotiation and decision making which will be necessary for developing and implementing viable environmental policies. The program is designed to allow students to pursue a specialization in a specific area of environmental science such as water, climate change and energy, biodiversity and ecosystem management, environmental justice and sustainable land use.

8. University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina is considered a pioneer in public policy; credited with instituting one of the first undergraduate degree programs in the discipline. The Department of Public Policy at the University of North Carolina was established in 1979 and has held to the belief that public policy analysis should be a principal task and concern of all educated individuals. In addition to a challenging and comprehensive academic curriculum, students are offered the benefits of participating in the undergraduate public policy majors union, lecture series, internship opportunities, seminars and extensive research opportunities. The 12 full time faculty members and 16 adjunct faculty members are dedicated educators and researchers.

The undergraduate Bachelor of Art and graduate degree programs in public policy with a specialization in environmental policy offer students a thorough and rigorous curriculum. The interdisciplinary program equips students with the knowledge essential to understanding the underlying principals of developing policy and the vital skills necessary to become capable professionals in the field. Students develop communication and analytical skills and are encouraged to pursue original research in areas of particular interest to them. Students complete courses in ethics and public policy, economic analysis, quantitative analysis, and at least three courses in the area of environmental policy. The capstone project allows students to gain valuable experience in developing original policy for current global issues.

9. Harvard University

Harvard University has long been regarded as a top ranked premier research institution of higher learning committed to advancing knowledge and providing exceptional educational programs and experiences. The Environmental Science and Public Policy concentration offered at Harvard University was founded with the purpose of training students to recognize the relevance of the economic, political, legal and ethical aspects in relation to the complex environmental issues facing the current and future populations. Harvard ascribes to the belief that only with this comprehensive understanding will future leaders in the field be capable of successfully developing and creating effective policies with sound scientific premises. Harvard University provides students with extensive resources in the form of rich field research locations, culturally diverse museums, lecture series, field trips and seminars.

The Environmental Science and Public Policy concentration at Harvard University is a multi-disciplinary curriculum providing an introduction to the current, complex environmental issues. Students are afforded the benefit of small class sizes and intensive student-faculty interaction due to the limited enrollment allowed in the concentration. The curriculum encompasses the areas of government, mathematics, environmental sciences, economics, earth science, chemistry and biology. Students are encouraged to develop a specialization in a specific social or natural science area related to the environment. Required courses include environmental science and public policy, microeconomics, social analysis, chemistry, physics and environmental science engineering. An honors option is provided to students who complete a written thesis project.

10. Carnegie Mellon University

The Department of Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University prepares students to become knowledgeable and informed leaders. The department provides students with a range of relevant degree programs which provide a general overview of the problems in technology and policy and study issues in engineered systems; both of which have a significant impact and relevance to environmental systems, energy and sustainable resources. The seminar series, strategy discussions and research opportunities hosted and offered at the university provide students with the opportunity to develop an inherent understanding of the field and the complex environmental issues confronting current societies.

The Engineering and Public Policy undergraduate degree program offered at Carnegie Mellon University encompass the most prevalent factors affecting and relating to the present day and future environmental issues. The curriculum explores the problems involving the impact of technology and engineering on energy resources and the environmental systems. Students have the opportunity to develop a truly unique and comprehensive individualized degree program which can be combined as a double major with any of the five engineering departments or with computer science. Students who enroll in the double major degree programs are able to complete many of the same core courses for both majors and can then concentrate the remainder of the courses on advanced specialized courses specific to the two field majors.

The current state of the economy has resulted in job loss concerns, pay decreases, a housing crisis, individual and business bankruptcies and a range of other issues. These concerns are compounded by the present political tensions, constant terror threats and rapidly changing environmental issues. Add to these general worries the daily stressors of work, family, and endless responsibilities which must be attended to with a limited amount of time and resources and it is astounding that the majority of the population manages to remain sane. The need and demand for professional services which provide relief from the mental and physical effects of living in an increasingly fast paced and frantic society is substantial. Massage therapy is the profession which responds to this need and, as a result, is experiencing substantial job growth.

Massage therapists use touch to provide relief from both mental and physical stress and to promote health. There are more than eighty types of massage, labeled modalities, each of which attends to a different problem or area of the body. These include Swedish massage, deep-tissue massage, acupressure, sports massage, neuromuscular massage and reflexology. Some modalities are intended to provide stress relief, enhance relaxation or to treat muscle injuries. Massage therapists often select an area of specialization and sometimes choose to work exclusively with certain types of clients; such as pregnant women, elderly clients or athletes. Specialization allows massage therapists to develop an expertise in a specific area which can translate into more clients.

Job growth, according to the United States Department of Labor, is expected to increase substantially in the massage therapy profession. The increase of job openings will be much more rapid for the massage therapy profession than for many other professions. The projected increase of 19 percent over the next eight years is directly attributed to all of the stressors and factors discussed previously. The demand for massage therapy professionals and massage therapy is causing an increase in the number of spa and resort facility openings. Massage clinics, a cheaper alternative to spas and resorts, are also experiencing an increase in the number of facilities opening. The affordability of these clinics is making massage services accessible to a larger segment of the population and correspondingly increasing the number of individuals seeking the services of a massage therapy professional.

High School

The massage therapy profession requires skills in a number of areas. High school students will need to complete the requisite courses necessary for graduation. The courses in mathematics, science, social studies and English provide students with a general knowledge base of information necessary to be successful in any field. These courses also develop specific skills in communication, problem solving and analytical and critical thinking. Completing the college preparatory curriculum is helpful; even if the student doesn’t expect to attend a traditional college. The rigorous curriculum ensures students have the opportunity to attend, if not immediately after high school, in the future. Choose elective courses in business, technology and computers. These courses will provide valuable knowledge which is useful to every individual who will work outside their home.

A successful massage therapist will need to possess certain knowledge in order to become proficient in the essential areas of the field. A general knowledge of anatomy will be necessary. Take care to pay attention in biology and science courses when anatomy is being taught. A general understanding of how the body systems work will make the individual more effective at massage. Developing an ability to read people and to put them at ease is also important. A massage therapist must be able to interpret what a client is expecting and seeking from a massage; relaxation, pain relief due to injury or sore muscles, even restoration and rejuvenation. These types of skills are acquired through an understanding of people and even business. Psychology and social studies courses are invaluable in achieving this end. Business courses remind of the importance of developing this type of intuition.

Massage School

Choosing the right school is essential to success in nearly every field. Massage schools are for profit institutions and as such, the potential and actual profit may be the primary interest of the school instead of the education of its students. It is important to choose a reputable institution which provides all of the necessary information, training and courses to ensure the individual will be equipped with what is needed to perform the functions of the job and to become licensed, if required. Choose an accredited massage school. Accreditation is usually approved by a state board. Independent accrediting agencies also evaluate and accredit massage schools. A massage school which adheres to a curriculum compliant with the state board licensing requirements will make the licensing process easier when the time comes.

The massage school curriculum will require both academic study and practical experience. All core areas of study should be included in the curriculum. The academic areas of study will include anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, organs and tissues, body mechanics, ethics and business management. Many schools offer the option of concentrated study in a particular modality of massage. Students will complete experiential training with massage techniques. The programs usually stipulate a specific number of hours that must be completed in academic study and practical application of massage techniques in order to graduate. The average length of time is approximately 500 hours.

To determine if the massage school you are considering will meet the requirements to permit you to take the NCBTMB certification exam, go to this link. You can enter the school name, city and state to find if it has met the high standards of excellence required to earn a school code from the agency. Only certificate or degrees from schools with a school code will earn an applicant a place for testing without a portfolio review.

Certification

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is one of the chief certifying agencies for massager therapy. The certification exam administered by the agency is accepted by most of the states requiring certification for licensure. There are two exams with different content; the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage or the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Deciding which test to sit for will depend on the applicants intended area of practice. In order to be eligible to sit for the exam the individual must complete a minimum of 500 hours of instruction. The areas of instruction should include:

- 125 hours of body systems (anatomy, physiology and kinesiology)
- 200 hours of massage and bodywork assessment, theory and application, in-class and supervised
- 40 hours of pathology
- 10 hours of business and ethics (minimum of 6 hours in ethics)
- 125 hours of additional instruction in an area or related field that theoretically completes the massage program of study

The applicant must complete the standardized test to ‘demonstrate a mastery of cores skills, abilities and knowledge.’ The fee for the exam is $225. A background check is performed prior to the issuance of the authorization letter for testing acceptance. The test will include content in all of the above areas and include questions regarding professional standards, ethics, business and legal practices. Those who successfully pass the exam are required to adhere by the NCBTMB’s strict code of ethics and standards of practice. Recertification must be completed every four years. Candidates who pass the test and become certified will be required to complete continuing education requirements to maintain their certification. Six hours of ethics study from an NCBTMB approved provider are required along with 48 continuing education hours and 200 hours of work. More information can be found at their website.

Licensing

Licensing requirements exist in the majority of states. These regulations and requirements protect the public by creating and enforcing health, safety and welfare standards to which the industry must comply. The regulations help eliminate possible fraudulent and unethical actions by the industry professionals. At least 42 of the states have laws regulating the massage therapy profession. Regulations or qualifications for licensing usually require a certain number of hours of instruction, the successful completion of the certification exam offered by one of the massage therapy national regulating bodies or the state boards, and a specific number of hours of practice in the field. It is important to check the state website to determine the licensing, certification and accreditation regulation prior to choosing which school to attend. You can obtain information on the licensing requirements for your state through this link.

Employment

Employment opportunities are available in a range of settings. Spas, resorts and sometimes health clubs offer massage therapy services to their members, guests and clients. Other potential employers may include doctor’s offices, hotels, recreational sports centers and chiropractic centers. The majority of those working in the massage therapy field were self-employed; working as independent contractors. These individuals either go to their client’s homes or have them come to theirs. Some self-employed massage therapists own their own businesses that provide massage therapy services. These types of services are offered across the country and around the world; providing extensive location flexibility. The demand for these types of services will be more concentrated in cities and near resort locations.

One of the most underrated tips for college life is getting to know your professors especially the ones in your major. I don’t hear much advice in this area but the benefits can be huge if you take some time to interact with your profs.

Now I’m not talking about sleazy brown-nosing or trying to be their best friend. Instead, just be a little intentional in getting on their radar. For example, visit them occasionally during their office hours and ask them good questions. You can ask them for help in the class topics you don’t understand. Or you can ask for tips on getting a job or getting into graduate school.

Professors may seem intimidating to talk to but I can assure you that they welcome the chance to help students directly.

With that in mind, here are 7 reasons to get to know your teachers.

1. You can get a great job reference including letters of recommendation.

References can be an important part to landing your dream job. Many of the best companies to work for do a thorough job of vetting prospective employees including contacting references.

College professors are ideal references since they are authority figures instead of peers. By building friendships with your profs, you’ll improve your chances of getting hired by a good company.

2. Many endowed scholarships are based on professor recommendation.

You may not now this when you first enroll in college but many schools give away annual scholarships from their endowment fund. And for the best scholarships, you will typically need teacher recommendations to qualify.

In my junior year, I got a great scholarship that paid for my senior year’s tuition. I was surprised because I didn’t have the best grades. I was curious about the approval process so I talked to the scholarship director. She said I was able to get the scholarship because I had multiple professor recommendations.

Needless to say, I was thankful for all the time I spent conversing with my teachers.

3. Teachers may have connections to job leads.

Don’t be surprised to find out that your teachers are well-connected in their industry. Your professors may know people in their field that can help you land a job in the future. For example, they may be able to refer you to former students who are now supervisors and can make hiring decisions for entry-level jobs.

People tend to help acquaintances and friends more than total strangers, so start getting to know your profs.

4. You will enjoy class more.

As you get to know your professors, you’ll begin to understand their teaching methods. You’ll realize why they tell certain stories and why they assign certain projects.

By asking them questions, you will gain more knowledge about the class topic, which will make the class more enjoyable.

5. You will have more motivation to do well in the class.

If you have a friendship with the prof, you’ll be motivated to do well in the class to impress him and not let him down.

Extra motivation for coursework is always a good thing since studying for college can sometimes by a drag. I’ve always done better in the classes where I knew the teacher personally.

6. You will gain networking skills that are valuable for your future.

Succeeding in the workforce requires networking skills. You can practice and develop those skills by interacting with your teachers.

Too many college students just spend time with their peers. By the time they graduate, they don’t know how to interact with hiring managers and bosses because they lack the experience with dealing with older adults.

7. Professors make great mentors.

With their experience and knowledge, professors are ideal mentors to students. They can give you great advice for landing a good entry-level position. And later, you can seek their guidance as you advance in your career.

But remember, teachers are busy and mentorship is a two-way street. Therefore, you need to take the first step in the relationship building process.

Over to You

How well do you know your professors?

Can you think of other reasons to get to know them?

This is guest post by Dee Barizo. He graduated with a bachelor degree in accounting back in 2002. Currently, he is a project manager for online properties. His latest project is The Best Degrees, an online degree site.

We have limited this list to professors who teach in the English-speaking world. A few listed here have officially retired or moved on to other responsibilities, but in each case they keep close ties to the academic world.

Peter Berger (1929-)

Professor Emeritus of Religion, Sociology and Theology at Boston University, where he directs its Institute on Culture, Religion, and World Affairs. A Lutheran, he studies the secularization of the West, focusing especially on the rift between “ elite culture and the rest of the population.” He sees American Christianity as a force for resisting secularization: “In the U.S., unlike any Western European country, there is enormous popular resistance to this trend [of secularization], especially from evangelical Christians.” He has written numerous influential books that have been widely translated. The University of Munich and Notre Dame have awarded him honorary doctorates.

References:
Faculty Bio
An Interview with Peter Berger

Benjamin S. “Ben” Carson Sr. (1951-)

Professor of Neurosurgery, Oncology, Plastic Surgery, and Pediatrics along with Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University. Educated at Yale and the University of Michigan, Carson has written over 100 scholarly articles as well as three bestselling books on integrating work and faith, all three with the Christian publishing house Zondervan. In addition to 38 honorary doctorates, he has received dozens of national merit citations, including the Presidential Freedom Medal, awarded in 2008. In a debate with atheist Richard Dawkins, Carson raised questions about evolutionary theory’s ability to reconstruct the natural history of life.

Reference:
Benjamin S. Carson Sr. Profile

Simon Conway Morris (1951-)

Professor of Evolutionary Palaeobiology in the Earth Sciences Department at Cambridge University. Praised by the late Stephen Jay Gould for his fundamental insights into the Cambrian explosion, Conway Morris ardently defends evolutionary theory in his book Life’s Solution: Inevitable Humans in a Lonely Universe (Cambridge). At the same time, he has no patience with atheists who use evolution to try to “prove” atheism. Active with the Templeton Foundation, Conway Morris has become a key critic of intelligent design. Conway Morris’s understanding of evolution is deeply tinged with Neoplatonism. His favorite author is the Christian apologist G. K. Chesterton.

Reference:
Simon Conway-Morris Bio

Louise S. Cowan (1916-)

University Professor of English at the University of Dallas. She, as a former dean, and her late physicist husband Donald, as president, fundamentally transformed the University of Dallas’s curriculum, advancing a generous Christian humanism. An author of books and numerous articles, she is best known for her teaching and impact on students. Now in her 90s, she continues to teach. As one recent student remarked, “Dr. Cowan is a legend and a master at her craft. She is uplifting, inspirational and brilliant. She is the reason that many teachers are still teaching literature and loving it.”

References:
Louise S. Cowan Faculty Bio
Student Reviews of Louise Cowan

William Lane Craig (1949-)

Research Professor of Philosophy at the Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. With a doctorate in philosophy (under John Hick) and another doctorate in theology (under Wolfhart Pannenberg), Craig is the premier evangelical apologist of his generation. A consummate debater who regularly debates atheists before university and (mega-)church audiences, he is at the same time a top-flight and wide-ranging scholar with a voluminous output that includes many books and articles. He has made fundamental contributions in the study of God’s relation to time, traditional arguments for God’s existence (especially the Kalam cosmological argument), and divine and human freedom.

Reference:
Reasonable Faith

Robert P. George (1955-)

McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton University and director of its James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions. Educated at Harvard and Oxford, his research and writings focus on the intersection between ethics and law. A Roman Catholic, he embraces a natural law approach to ethics and is known as a critic of liberal political philosophy. An author of many books and articles, he has had presidential appointments to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and to the President’s Council on Bioethics. He is one of the framers, with Chuck Colson, of the Manhattan Declaration.

References:
Princeton Faculty Bio
Manhattan Declaration

Donald Knuth (1931-)

Professor Emeritus of the Art of Computer Programming at Stanford University. Knuth is the 20th century’s greatest theorist of the algorithm. His influence within the computer science community is unparalleled. In addition to his fundamental work on algorithms, epitomized in his multivolume The Art of Computer Programming, he is the creator of TeX, mathematical typesetting software that has revolutionized publishing within the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences. A Lutheran, Knuth has written a charming book on all the verses numbered 3:16 in the Bible, material he first presented to the Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences. He has received numerous awards and prizes, including the National Medal of Science.

References:
Stanford Website
6th ACMS Conference Proceedings

Robert Jackson Marks II (1950-)

Distinguished Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Baylor University. A founder of the field of computational intelligence (comprising fuzzy sets, neural networks, and evolutionary computing), Marks has published hundreds of articles on an very wide range of problems (everything from optimal detection of non-Gaussian noise to proper placement of radioactive inserts to treat prostate cancer). His work has enormous practical implications that are felt every day—all major North American utilities deliver energy using his work on neural networks. An Christian intent on understanding teleology in nature, Marks founded the Evolutionary Informatics Lab, which publishes peer-reviewed scientific papers supporting the controversial theory of intelligent design.

References:
Faculty Bio

Michael W. McConnell (1955-)

Richard and Frances Mallery Professor of Law at Stanford University, where he directs Stanford’s Constitutional Law Center. Formerly at the University of Chicago and the University of Utah (leaving Chicago for Utah to place family above career), McConnell was a federal judge from 2002 to 2009. While at Chicago, he obtained a fellowship for then recent Harvard Law graduate Barack Obama to bring him to the UofC Law School. McConnell is a top constitutional law scholar, focusing especially on separation of powers, federalism, and originalism. An unapologetic Christian, he embraces the sanctity of life and supports a constitutional amendment to ban abortion.

References:
Faculty Profile at Stanford
NY Times Article on McConnell’s Relationship to President Obama

Alister Edgar McGrath (1953-)

Professor of Theology, Ministry and Education, and Head of the Centre for Theology, Religion and Culture at King’s College, London. Receiving his first doctorate in molecular biology, he earned a second doctorate in theology and has since become one of the English-speaking world’s premier theologians and apologists. With an unrivaled scholarly output (one loses track of the number of books he has published), he has been a strong voice against the “new atheism.” He has worked closely with the Templeton Foundation to advance the science-religion discussion. In 2009 he presented the Gifford Lectures on natural theology.

References:
Oxford Homepage
McGrath’s Facebook

R. Albert Mohler (1959-)

Joseph Emerson Brown Professor of Christian Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he is also the seminary’s president. With an incredible ability to read and assimilate material (his personal library numbers well over 50,000 volumes), Mohler also hosts a national radio program and is a regular on talking-heads programs such as Larry King Live. A conservative Southern Baptist, he has been a controversial figure in his denomination, moving it well to the right of its previous moderate stance. Nonetheless, committed to cultural renewal, he works across denominational barriers, being an original signer of the Manhattan Declaration.

References:
Albert Mohler Homepage
Albert Mohler Biography

Martin Andreas Nowak (1965-)

Professor of Biology and of Mathematics at Harvard University and Director of Harvard’s Program for Evolutionary Dynamics. An Austrian citizen, Nowak received his doctorate in Vienna studying with Peter Schuster. He has published 300 scientific articles, over 30 in Nature and 10 in Science. In 2005 he was the first to quantify in vivo kinetics of human cancer. Nowak is a Roman Catholic who works with the Templeton Foundation on the connection between faith and science. According to him, “Science and religion are two essential components in the search for truth. Denying either is a barren approach.”

Reference:
Harvard Faculty Bio

Alvin Plantinga (1932-)

John A. O’Brien Professor of Philosophy at the University of Notre Dame. After receiving his Ph.D. from Yale, Plantinga taught at Calvin College. More than any other philosopher, Plantinga is credited with the revival of Christian theism as topic of serious inquiry within mainstream academic philosophy. In The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind, Mark Noll cites this move in philosophy as the only truly significant contribution of evangelicalism to the wider intellectual culture. Plantinga has written several important books, including God and Other Minds (Cornell), The Nature of Necessity (Oxford), and his trilogy on proper function (Oxford).

Reference:
Notre Dame Faculty Profile

John Polkinghorne (1930-)

Former President of Queen’s College at Cambridge University, where he was also Professor of Mathematical Physics. Elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, he resigned his professorship in 1979 to pursue the Anglican priesthood. As a priest, he became one of the leading voices and teachers in the dialogue between science and religion, culminating in his award in 2002 of the Templeton Prize. Polkinghorne “believes that the universe is an ‘open’ and ‘flexible’ system, where patterns can be seen to exist, but where ‘the providential aspect cannot be ruled out.’” “His own faith has little to do with physics. It stems, instead, from a more personal ‘encounter with Christ.’”

Links:
John Polkinghorne’s Homepage

Marilynne Robinson (1943-)

Pulitzer Prize winning author (for Gilead) and permanent faculty member of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop (University of Iowa). Her non-fiction The Death of Adam: Essays on Modern Thought trenchantly critiques modern misconceptions that secular thinkers use to invalidate Christian faith. Her 2009 Terry Lectureship at Yale, titled Absence of Mind: The Dispelling of Inwardness from the Modern Myth of the Self, expands on this critique. In a 2006 interview with The Christian Century, she remarked, “I’d like to see mainline churches, collectively and individually, remember and claim their profound histories and cultures.”

References:
University of Iowa Bio
Terry Lectures Video

Henry “Fritz” Schaefer III (1944-)

Graham Perdue Professor of Chemistry and Director of the Center for Computational Chemistry at the University of Georgia. The inventor of quantum computational chemistry, Schaefer has published over 1,000 journal articles and is one of the most widely cited chemists in the world. Receiving his doctorate from Stanford, he was on faculty at Cal Berkeley before taking his current position at Georgia. A constant contender for the Nobel Prize, he has been persistently passed over for membership in the prestigious U.S. National Academy of Sciences because of his outspoken Christian views, skepticism of Darwinism, and support of intelligent design.

References:
Faculty page at UGA
Leadership U Faculty Office

Charles Margrave Taylor (1931-)

Emeritus Professor of Political Science and Philosophy at McGill University, Canada. A Roman Catholic, Taylor is one of the premier social and political thinkers of our time. His book Sources of Self, according to Robert Hoffman, provides “a historical account of the modernist protest against the disengaged and instrumental modes of thought and action that arose when theistically grounded morality crumbled.” It demonstrates Taylor’s thorough-going engagement with the contemporary intellectual world. Taylor is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Kyoto Prize (for arts and philosophy) and the Templeton Prize (for progress in religion).

References:
Templeton Prize Winning Page

John Suppe (1943-)

Blair Professor of Geosciences Emeritus at Princeton University. Known for his genius at “seeing through rocks,” Suppe has received numerous honors, including membership in the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. A convert to Christianity later in life, Suppe has a passion for missions. As a member of the American Scientific Affiliation, a professional society of Christians focusing on the relation between faith and science, he sees “significant parallels between Christian and scientific knowing that lie at the very core of contingent epistemology. Specifically, observation and interaction are fundamental to both Christian and scientific knowledge.”

References:
Christianity in Light of Science
Princeton Faculty Page

James Tour (1959-)

The Chao Professor of Chemistry at Rice University. Tour also holds faculty appointments in computer science and materials science at Rice. Taking the mantle of his friend and mentor, the late Rice professor and Nobelist Rick Smalley, Tour has become one of the world’s leading nano-engineers and is himself now on a fast track for the Nobel Prize. A skeptic of Darwinian evolution for, as he stresses, scientific reasons, he has nonetheless been passed over membership in the National Academy of Sciences. An evangelical Christian, he rises at 3:30am every morning to study the Bible for two hours.

References:
The James M Tour Group

Nicholas Thomas “Tom” or “N.T.” Wright (1948-)

Bishop of Durham in the Church of England and formerly on faculty at McGill and Oxford Universities. Wright is one of the world’s leading New Testament scholars. His magisterial The Resurrection of the Son of God is widely regarded as the definitive defense of the traditional view that Jesus rose from the dead. Though clashing swords with more liberal biblical scholars (who reject Jesus’ bodily resurrection), everyone acknowledges that Wright’s work cannot be ignored. The author of many books and the recipient of numerous honorary doctorates, Wright is also an honorary fellow at both Cambridge and Oxford Universities.

Reference:
NT Wright Homepage

Choosing the right college is one of the most important steps taken by a prospective student. Depending on the field in which the student intends to enter, the individual’s future success can be contingent on this significant choice. Certain fields are regulated by national and/or international agencies which standardize the requirements for becoming a recognized professional in the field. The dietitian profession is regulated by the American Dietician Association and its subsidiary and nationally recognized accrediting organization, CADE. Dieticians must successfully complete a CADE accredited Dietician program in order to qualify to take the exam for registration. Registration is required in the majority of states for licensure or certification to practice. Prospective students will need to select a college with a program which has met the requirements and successfully attained CADE accreditation.

In addition to CADE accreditation, there are various other factors which should be taken into consideration when determining which college is right for the individual. Prospective students should research the curriculum to decide if the program requirements and type of program suit their educational goals. Dietician programs vary based on whether only the coursework is included with the program, leaving the internship requirement up to the student to satisfy, or whether it is a cooperative program, incorporating the required internship with the coursework. Students should also consider the credentials of the faculty members and the number of faculty members within the department. The job placement success rate of the graduates is indicative of the quality of career assistance provided and the regard of the industry towards the institution and its graduates. Other factors are more personal including the size, the location and the financial cost of the school.

The colleges listed below offer dietician programs which are considered as the top ranked among comparable programs offered at other colleges.

1. California State University, Los Angeles

California State University at Los Angeles is a part of the renowned and highly regarded California State University system established in 1961. The California State University system is the largest of its type in the country; boasting 23 campuses, nearly half a million students and 44,000 faculty members. The University is committed to advancing knowledge in all areas of academic study through research and educational pursuits and to producing graduates prepared for the challenges of professional roles in their various fields. The award winning faculty members at California State University contribute to the success of their graduates with their superior teaching skills and through their continuous support. The 1800 comprehensive degree programs offered ensure students satisfy both the academic and practical requirements for the various fields.

The College of Health and Human Services at California State University LA offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutritional Science with two options. Students can complete either the Didactic Program in Dietetics which prepares them for the required internship in dietetics or the coordinated dietetics program which incorporates the internship with the program. Both options are accredited through CADE, permitting graduates to sit for the registration exam after completion of accredited dietician internship programs. The 180 credit degree program requires students to complete at least 127 credits within the major. Courses include human anatomy and physiology, introductory microbiology, cultural cuisine, fundamentals of human nutrition, experimental foods, evaluation of current nutritional concepts, fundamentals of chemistry, nutritional aspects of biochemistry and medical nutrition therapy.

2. Purdue University

Purdue University was founded in 1869 and has become a top ranked research university both nationally and internationally. The superior quality educational programs, productive research efforts and extensive program options have earned the University a ranking of 87 among the top 100 world universities. Additionally, Purdue ranks as one of the top 25 public universities and graduate programs, top 10 of the nation’s best buys and among the nation’s best values. And the rankings of Purdue University have consistently increased annually over the last several years. Purdue University offers more than 200 undergraduate majors in addition to their more than seventy post graduate and professional programs which are also ranked high among comparable programs.

The College of Consumer and Family Sciences at Purdue University offers students the opportunity to pursue several degree options. Students can choose to pursue the dietetics didactic program which is solely coursework, the coordinated dietetics program which encompasses both the coursework and the internship or the dual degree program in dietetics/nutrition, fitness and health. The 130 Bachelor of Science degree programs are CADE accredited and meet the requirements of the American Dietetic Association to apply for the registration exam. The programs teach the essential skills necessary to be successful in the dietetics field; analytical and critical thinking, mathematics, statistics, communication and science. Courses include biochemistry, human design, chemistry, human development, food science, fundamentals of nutrition, nutritional assessment, diet selection and planning, experience in community nutrition and macronutrient metabolism in human health and disease.

3. University of Texas – Austin

The University of Texas at Austin is a part of the Texas University system which was established in 1839. The Austin campus of the University of Texas is the largest of the institutions and is regarded as a premier research university. The commitment of the university to improving the world by advancing knowledge through research and education and through its extensive public service efforts has earned the University of Texas at Austin multiple rankings among the top schools with more than 50 ranked top 10 programs nationally and internationally. The school boasts a student body of more than 50,000 students and nearly 3000 faculty members The extensive resources provided at the University of Texas Austin is unparalleled by any of the other public universities.

Several bachelor degree options are offered to students by the University of Texas Austin’s Nutritional Sciences Department to students majoring in dietetics. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in dietetics can choose to complete the coordinated program or the didactic program, both of which are accredited by CADE and approved by the ADA. Additionally, students can choose a nutritional sciences option, nutritional and health option or the teaching option. Dietetics option concentrates on satisfying the curriculum requirements to ensure students will be eligible to sit for the registration exam administered by CADE. The program equips students with the requisite knowledge in the areas of anatomy, bimolecular study, nutrition, health and incorporates interdisciplinary study in the social sciences and economics essential to understanding the field.

4. Howard University

Howard University was established by charter in 1867 as a research institution with a concentration in liberal arts and science. The University is dedicated to furthering the education of African-American men and women and endeavors to produce graduates who are socially conscious leaders focused on providing answers to societal issues and concerns. The 1064 faculty members are professional educators dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience. Students have the opportunity to select from 80 undergraduate majors and more than 90 post graduate majors. In addition to being fully accredited through the Middle States Association of Colleges and schools, Howard University has earned numerous accreditations for their various degree programs through the nationally recognized accrediting agencies.

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutritional Sciences offered at Howard University is accredited by CADE. Students learn the foundational areas of the nutrition discipline; ensuring students are well versed in the basic concepts of the dietetics field. The flexible program curriculum permits students the opportunity to tailor the program towards their interests and professional goals. During their junction year, students can choose to specialize in community nutrition or human nutrition and food or can pursue the coordinated dietetics program and begin completing more advanced coursework in the major. Courses include meal management, experimental foods, introduction to dietetics, community nutrition, advanced nutrition, medical terminology and evaluating nutrition status.

5. University of Cincinnati

Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati is a highly regarded public research institution credited with substantial discoveries shaping the future of society. The University of Cincinnati is a top ranked research and public university which provides superior educational programs also ranked among the top in the nation, nine of which are ranked in the top ten. Students are offered the opportunity to participate in the University of Cincinnati’s cooperative education programs which was the nation’s first. The University is dedicated to the concept of experiential education, the advancement of knowledge and the production of intellectual innovation. Students benefit from the expertise of the more than 2600 faculty members. The University of Cincinnati is accredited through the Higher learning Commission and has earned extensive accreditations for the range of degree programs offered at the school.

The Bachelor degree in dietetics offered at the University of Cincinnati requires students to apply for admission for the coordinated program in the spring of their second year. Students who are accepted into the program will complete the internship required of dieticians to become registered professionals while completing the bachelor degree. Students who choose not to apply or are not accepted can complete the didactic program in the dietetics major and complete the internship requirement after graduation. Both programs are accredited by CADE. The curriculum encompasses coursework in chemistry, English, biology, health and nutrition and includes the completion of a portfolio capstone requirement. Courses include medical anthropology, social health and illness, eating disorders, introduction to health promotion, health issues, consumer health, personal health behavior and community health.

6. SUNY – Buffalo State University of New York

Founded in 1846, Buffalo State University of New York is the largest and most comprehensive of the New York University system campuses. Buffalo State University is a highly regarded, top ranked research institution dedicated to providing academically superior degree programs and effecting constructive advancements in the world. The University boasts among their alumni astronauts, founder of Miramax films and Pulitzer prize winners and significant contributions to the invention of revolutionary medical technology and treatments. The university is home to approximately 29,000 students and employs 1600 full time and nearly 770 part time faculty members. Students are able to select from more than 100 undergraduate and over 250 graduate degree programs offered at the school.

The Department of Exercise and Nutrition at Buffalo State University offers a comprehensive degree program in exercise and nutrition. Dedicated to providing a quality educational plan, the university believes that solely earning a bachelor degree in the field doesn’t sufficiently equip graduates for a career in the field of dietetics. Students are offered the opportunity to complete an accelerated and combined Bachelor of Science/Master of Science program in exercise science and nutrition, to complete a post bachelor internship in dietetics or to pursue a master of science in the field. The combined program can be completed in five years by motivated students. Students have the option to specialize in a nutrition emphasis. The combined BS/MS and the MS only degree programs are accredited through CADE. The internship requires participants to complete 1200 hours within a twelve month period.

7. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina is one of the oldest of the nation’s universities, established by charter in 1789, and celebrates a long history of distinguished alumni. The school has regularly ranked among the top schools over the last decade; earning a number one ranking among the 100 best public colleges and universities in 2009. The dedication of the University of North Carolina to providing a superior academic curriculum, its 3500 highly regarded faculty members committed to teaching and affordable tuition costs are directly attributed to making it a premier institution. As one of the nation’s most productive research universities, the University of North Carolina contributes substantially to the knowledge and academic advancement of all disciplines.

The Department of Nutrition at the University of North Carolina offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs which lead to careers as dieticians. The curriculum encompasses the breadth of the discipline; including the areas of public health and behavioral analysis. Students learn the essential aspects of nutrition and its effect on individuals and society as a whole. The curriculum is CADE accredited and provides training in human biology, effect of nutrition on the epidemiology, prevention and treatment of disease and evaluates the cultural and organic factors of nutrition as well. The Bachelor of Science prepares students for the advanced study of the field in graduate school. Students who successfully complete the program will also be eligible to apply to sit for the dietetic registration exam or for admission to medical school.

8. Eastern Michigan University

Since its early beginnings in 1849, Eastern Michigan University has been committed to providing high quality degree programs and contributing to the global community through public service. The university endeavors to remain abreast of advancements and developments in the various fields; providing students with the most current curriculum. The school maintains a student focused environment, dedicated to the success of their graduates and to developing ethical community leaders. The student body of nearly 23,000 individuals has the opportunity to select from 200 majors from among the five colleges. Among the 689 faculty members of Eastern Michigan University are individuals who have won prestigious teaching awards in recognition for their excellence.

The Dietetics and Human Nutrition program offered at Eastern Michigan University is fully accredited by CADE. The coordinated program in dietetics is unique in that the university includes training in business and entrepreneurship in addition to the traditional curriculum. The program is offered both in the traditional classroom setting and online. Students learn the concepts of applying food and nutrition concepts to the overall health of the individual and learn to utilize the latest technology and the application of such in their professional capacities. The curriculum has a strong concentration in public health and teaches the skills and knowledge necessary for dietetic professionals to adapt to the changing needs of the populations they serve. Students are also afforded the opportunity to develop specializations within their curriculum.

9. La Salle University

La Salle University was established in 1863 as a teaching institution of higher learning based on Catholic values. Dedicated to developing the spiritual and intellectual growth of students, La Salle University strives to provide a high quality education which instills ethical professional standards in its graduates. La Salle serves a student body of 7300 and offers more than 40 undergraduate majors and 15 graduate programs. Many distinctions have been earned by the university, including being named one of the nation’s best regional universities by US News and World Report and being named as one of the Princeton Review’s great schools for 15 of the most popular undergraduate majors. The school provides distinguished, highly regarded faculty members, a 14 to 1 student faculty ration and the opportunity to study abroad.

At La Salle University’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences, students have the option to pursue either the didactic or the coordinated program in nutrition. Both programs are CADE accredited. Students who complete the didactic program have the opportunity to fulfill the internship requirement and take the registration exam for dieticians. Courses for the program will include practicum in food service management and in clinical nutrition. The program is designed to allow students to pursue a specialization in a particular area of interest by the designation of a minor or through the selection of electives. Students are required to complete 900 hours of supervised practice within their senior year to satisfy the internship requirement of the coordinated program. Externships are offered to students as a means to attain additional experience in the field.

10. University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh, founded in 1787, began as a small private school which evolved into one of the nations premier research universities. The university has earned international recognition as an educational leader; in large part for their success in providing a diverse array of high quality comprehensive degree programs. The emphasis of the University on experiential learning equips graduates with the essential skills necessary to become leaders. Students are provided with substantial opportunities to engage in hands on activities and projects. The study abroad programs provide students who choose to participate with a global understanding and perspective of the field in which they major. The faculty advisers provide substantial support throughout the educational experience at the University of Pittsburgh.

The Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary Bachelor of Science degree program in clinical dietetics and nutrition. Students learn the foundational areas of nutrition, the reciprocal relationship between nutrition and chronic disease and the effect of nutrition on health. The coordinated program is CADE accredited; ensuring students are qualified to take the exam to become registered dieticians upon graduation. The didactic curriculum is also CADE accredited, qualifying students to complete CADE internship programs after graduation. The courses are taught by experts and renowned researchers in the field of nutrition. Students are also offered the opportunity to participate in a range of opportunities within various dietetic student and community organizations.

Get started with a degree

Computers have produced an array of new occupational possibilities. Career opportunities which once did not exist are some of today’s hottest jobs. And occupations which once required extensive hours of tedious labor are now quickly and efficiently completed entirely with advanced computer technology. One such profession is Desktop Publishing. Publishing used to be accomplished solely through mechanical giants known as presses. And though there remain a mass of publishing companies which still utilize presses, and do so successfully, the relatively new field of desktop publishing has rapidly become the central publishing method. Desktop publishers use computers and specialized computer software to create brochures, newsletters, and various other publications. The desktop publishing process requires professionals with knowledge and skills in traditional and contemporary publishing methods.

The desktop publishing professional is responsible for assembling digital files into an aesthetically attractive and appropriate format for printing. The individual must incorporate text and graphics in a meaningful and effective layout. Some graphic design knowledge is helpful to the desktop publishing professional. The desktop publisher may need to edit and/or manipulate photographs, text and images to create an easily navigated and visually pleasing document, publication, book, newspaper or other publication. The desktop publishing field differs from graphic design in that the graphic design field creates the design for the purpose of visual communication while desktop publishers produce the actual documents. The two fields are closely related and knowledge of the skills necessary to fulfill the tasks of the one profession is advantageous to the success of the other.

According to the statistics provided by the United States Department of Labor, employment openings within the desktop publishing field are expected to decline significantly. Individuals seeking employment in the field will need to provide superior qualifications and display stellar capabilities. The majority of openings in the desktop publishing field will be within the printing industry or the various publishing organizations such as newspapers, periodicals and books. Individuals seeking employment will need to prove they are capable of working with the latest software and technology tools, are proficient in writing and editing and are skilled with producing aesthetically pleasing and effective designs and layouts. Desktop publishers may work at small firms, be contracted to work for several larger firms or work within a publishing department at a large organization.

High School

During high school, students will need to complete the general college preparatory curriculum. The curriculum includes three or more years in mathematics, science and English; two or more years of social studies, language and technology. Completion of health and gym courses is also required. This schedule prepares students for the rigors of college work. Students learn the basic foundational knowledge of each of these subject areas; ensuring they are prepared for the more advanced academic knowledge which will be taught in college courses. Additionally, students learn essential problem solving, oral and written communication and analytical and critical thinking skills and the practical skills required to become proficient in using computer, software and technology. Elective courses in art and music are left up to the student to select. Students interested in pursuing a career in desktop publishing should elect art courses to develop an aptitude in the necessary skills in art, design and color.

Technical high schools offer specialized curriculum which incorporates traditional academic coursework into a practical trade oriented program. Students intending to pursue a career in desktop publishing may consider completing a program offered at a technical high school. It is important to first verify that the academic curriculum provided will include the college preparatory courses required for college admission. If the program doesn’t include all of the requisite courses, attending the technical school shouldn’t be considered. Once it is determined that the program will incorporate the college preparatory curriculum, review the programs offered at the technical high school. Students will benefit from graphic design or web design programs, programs in publishing or desktop publishing or programs in general design. Computer program tracks would also be appropriate choices. Completing any of these programs will teach and enhance the technical skills of the student, providing an early opportunity for exposure and to attain practical experience. Students who begin early are more likely to develop an inherent understanding and ability in the field.

High school offers substantial opportunities to participate in career relevant activities. Students interested in the desktop publishing field will benefit from the club and organization activities. Students should consider becoming part of the school newspaper to develop effective writing and editing skills. The yearbook committee provides opportunities to develop design skills, work with photographs and images, and to select and arrange appropriate text. Formatting, colors and arrangement are essential to the desktop publishing discipline all of which are an integral aspect of creating a yearbook. Photography clubs can also develop certain skills which will be helpful; formatting, design, digital imaging and manipulation. Computer clubs generally have the opportunity to try out various software programs and tools and to learn new skills. Students in the club may have learn where and how to discover the latest updates and the opportunity to network with computer professionals.

College

Though the skills required to be a successful desktop publisher do not necessarily require a degree, a college degree is usually preferred by the majority of businesses and organizations interested in obtaining the services of the desktop publishing professional. The skills required of the desktop publishing professionals are generally learned on the job. However, obtaining a college degree increases an individual’s viability in the job market. The college degree is an indication of the person’s motivation, ambition and dedication to their own success and their commitment to the profession in which they work. The degree further serves as evidence of the individual’s ability to complete long term goals and balance multiple tasks and assignments during the same period of time. A college degree should always be a priority, even when the career choice doesn’t necessarily require it and/or colleges don’t offer a major in the specific discipline.

A range of relevant degree options are available for students intending to pursue careers in desktop publishing. Students should choose a college which offers programs in graphic or web design with an option for specialization. Other degrees in the computer science major, publishing, advertising, marketing or certain design majors will also provide valuable practical and academic training. Choose a major in which you have a substantial interest, but will alsohave some relevance to the desktop publishing field. Once you have decided which major course of study you wish to pursue, the next step is to decide whether to obtain an associate or bachelor degree in the field. Since the job market has become increasingly competitive, with a majority of job candidates possessing college degrees, it is recommended to obtain a bachelor degree. A bachelor degree will increase the competitiveness of a job candidates status with other qualified individuals who are vying for the same position.

Both traditional brick and mortar colleges and online colleges offer degree programs relevant to the field. Students have the option of electing to complete the entire degree program through either type of institution of higher learning. The important factors to consider when choosing which college to attend for a major in a technology reliant professional discipline are the type of technology with which the school teaches and the frequency with which the school reviews and updates the curriculum for updates in the field. Graduates of these types of degree programs will need to be knowledgeable about the latest trends in the profession and proficient in the use of the latest tools and technologies. Other factors to consider would be the type of job placement assistance offered and the success of such a program, the professional experience of the faculty members, the length of time necessary to complete the degree program and the rigor of the curriculum.

Professional Portfolio

Since the desktop publishing profession will only grow increasingly more competitive in terms of job openings and advancement, only the most experienced or educated individuals will likely have offers for employment or contractual jobs. The professional portfolio serves as a visual resume of the individual’s capabilities and accomplishments. It is crucial to provide the best evidence of your abilities within the portfolio. The professional portfolio needs to demonstrate the scope of your abilities as well as the level of your capabilities. Include an array of projects so prospective employers will be able to discern from the portfolio that you are capable of successfully completing any task required of you. Employers want to be confident the individual hired for the job will be capable of handling any assignment required of them.

Professional portfolios can be created as hard copies or as virtual editions. A desktop publisher may benefit from offering prospective employers the opportunity to view the professional portfolio both ways. Creating an electronic portfolio on the internet provides an easier and more efficient means of delivering a copy to a potential employer or client. Maintaining an electronic portfolio on the internet can be beneficial to an individual who works on a contractual basis as it allows prospective customers to view the work prior to contacting the individual. This generally means that when the person is contacted, the customer has viewed their work, is confident they can provide the quality of work being sought and is reasonably certain they want to hire the individual to provide services. The hard copy can then be provided as evidence that the professional is just as capable of producing quality physical publications as they are of producing electronic versions.

Continuing Education

Many colleges offer certificate programs and courses in subjects relevant to the desktop publishing field. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, the trends in publishing can change quickly. Completing courses regularly will ensure professionals in the field stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements. This will ensure the individual doesn’t become obsolete along with the earlier technologies. Attend events, lectures and seminars when presented with the opportunities. This will allow you to network with other professionals and to learn of changes which may occur in the near future. Dedication to lifelong learning opportunities will lessen the likelihood that the evolution in the field will outpace you. As the field evolves, whether it becomes more advanced or becomes a different profession all together, a professional who continues to take advantage of learning opportunities will be prepared and remain trained to provide services relevant to a range of positions within the profession.

Degrees in Animation

Simply defined, animators are artists who draw animated or cartoon images. These images can be completed on a series of frames to create the illusion of movement; can be 2- or 3- dimensional, or can be a single frame intended to communicate an idea. Individuals who become animators generally possess artistic talent and creative abilities. Successful animators will not be able to rely solely on these skills, though. The animation field is a competitive industry. Individuals will need to possess technical skills in order to utilize their talent artistic talent in any of the industries requiring the services of an animator. Animators will need to know how to manipulate images with computer software and be capable of working with the various types of multimedia in use today.

There are a vast number of job opportunities for animators in a range of employment settings. Animators work in advertising; creating a series of images to explain a campaign idea. Animators work in the film industries; creating the images to depict the various characters and the special effects in the movies. Animators work in television; creating the storyboards for cartoon shows. Animators also work in the game industry; creating the images in the video and computer games. The consistent public interest in animated films and television programs has resulted in an increasing number of occupational opportunities for professionals in the industry and the billion dollar game industry requires the skills of animators to assist with the game development process.

According to the United States Department of Labor, though employment rates may not increase exponentially, job growth in the field of animation will occur. In order to keep up with consumer demands and interests, job openings are expected to increase at the average rate of the majority of occupations over the next ten years. Many animators are self employed and work in private studios or offices. These individuals offer their services on a contractual basis. A number of other professional animators are employed by advertising agencies, publishing companies and design firms. These businesses need skilled animation professionals to develop and implement their animated creations and story boards.

High School

Preparation for any career begins in high school. High school provides a basis in the essential skills needed to succeed in college, advanced technical schools and the professional job market. High school courses educate students in elemental and advanced subject matters; English, writing, science, mathematics, history and social studies. These subject areas provide the foundational basis students need to be able to build upon. Studies in these areas provide knowledge, but also help students develop skills in analytical and critical thinking, written and verbal communication and effective problem solving. Developing the studying and research skills most students acquire during their high school years is also important to future success in college and beyond.

Taking art courses during high school will provide the opportunity to advance artistic abilities and learn new techniques. Understanding basic art concepts is an integral aspect of becoming an art professional in the future. Art students need to understand art terminology, theory and practice. Students also need to be able to implement theory and ideas into tangible projects. Art courses offered to high school students accomplish this purpose; teaching students the basics of the art field. High school art courses generally provide opportunities to participate in art shows and, usually, contests. The projects completed for submission into contests or shows can be compiled into a rudimentary portfolio. Most colleges expect applicants for their art programs to have a simple portfolio of work to present as evidence of their abilities.

In order to improve and sharpen existing skills, even with natural talents and abilities, practice is required. Take advantage of any opportunity presented; enter contests, participate in special projects, join school clubs or community groups or organizations. Create opportunities for yourself, also. Take the initiative and contact agencies and/or organizations which may require the services of a person with artistic abilities. Offer your services without charge in return for the experience. Ask if the company may require the services of an unpaid intern in exchange for the opportunity to learn about the business. The experience will provide invaluable insight into how businesses function as well as providing the opportunity to learn new skills. Create images and projects independently just for the experience. Use available software and tools to develop your ideas.

College

Locating a college with an animation program is not as simple as finding one for a more traditional major. Animation is not offered at every institution of higher learning. Choosing a college can be a challenging process. Once you locate the colleges which do offer programs in animation, the next step is determining whether the program provides all of the relevant areas of study requisite to the field and offers the latest technologies on which to learn. Though artistic talent is a principal requirement for a person in the field, professionals in the animation field need to be proficient using the latest technological tools and software to develop their creations and ideas. Choose a college which provides students with the most prevalent industry technologies.

The quality of the animation degree program is a principal concern. Programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design must meet stringent program qualifications to earn accreditation. Selecting a college with NASAD accreditation will provide assurance the program provides training in all relevant and necessary areas. Animation students will need a program which encompasses a range of subject areas relevant to the various career paths an animation professional can follow. Generally, these areas of study include graphic art, advertising, marketing, business, art, technology and communication. Courses in areas of specialization are also helpful. Many colleges will offer students the opportunity to select an area of focus. These focused courses can ensure students receive the specialized training necessary for certain careers.

In addition to reviewing the curriculum of the colleges to determine if the courses offered include the areas in which you are most interested in working, check how often the programs are reviewed for relevant industry updates. Colleges offering degree programs in fields which experience rapid advancement should regularly update their curriculum to ensure their students receive the most current training. Every field reliant on technology, especially computer technology, will need to include new software and technology tools in their program. Another concern should be the availability of computer resources. If the number of students who require the use of the computer laboratories and studios possessing the needed resources outnumber the available stations, students will not have sufficient time or access to these tools to ensure they will have occasions enough to develop proficiency with using them.

Competition for employment positions can be significant. Education is one of the central factors considered by industry professionals charged with the task of hiring new employees. When deciding which type of degree program to pursue or which college to attend, this should be considered. Certificate programs are offered at independent art and design career schools. These specialized programs do provide general studio and technology training. Associate and bachelor degree programs are also offered at many of these types of institutions. Considering that most employers prefer to hire individuals with associate or bachelor degrees, it is the recommended educational path to take. Some college offer graduate degree programs in animation. The decision to pursue a graduate degree should be considered carefully. Most animation professionals earn an annual salary between $45,000 and $60,000. Some can earn upwards of $80,000 per year, but it is uncommon. Weigh the benefits against the cost.

Internships and Portfolio

Internships are a part of the curriculum at the majority of colleges. Colleges generally develop affiliations with companies willing to offer students the opportunity to intern. Usually these affiliations are developed with notable and highly regarded companies. Participating in an internship offers substantial benefits. Considering the fact that the majority of companies prefer to hire individuals with experience, an internship is a sensible method of obtaining the requisite experience. Employers and clients will be more likely to hire someone with internship experience than take a chance on a person with solely an education in the animation field. Internships provide valuable networking connections which could result in job placement assistance at a later time. Interns are able to observe, firsthand, how the industry functions and to acquire practical experience in the field. Some companies may allow their interns to actively participate in project collaboration or development. Others may limit the interns to solely an observation position. The terms of internships can vary based on the company policies; rules limiting what tasks an intern is permitted to perform. Regardless of the limitations of the internship, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in an internship if it is offered.

Professional portfolios are required of any individuals seeking employment in the creative fields. The portfolios provide tangible evidence of the applicants’ artistic and creative abilities. Employers want to know the individual they choose to hire will be capable of performing the duties associated with the position being offered and will be a productive, contributing member of their organization. In order for an aspiring animation professional to produce a portfolio which conveys this impression, it is important that only their best work is included. Projects completed during college, for any extracurricular activities, while interning or specifically for portfolio purposes should be added to the portfolio. The majority of colleges offer their students and graduates assistance with developing portfolios. Take advantage of the opportunity if it is offered. If you participate in an internship, ask other professional animators for their opinions and advice. In the creative fields, the portfolio tends to speak louder than a resume.

Continuing Education

Though employment in the animation field is not contingent on attaining continuing education credits as is the case with many other professions, it is important to stay current on changes and advancements in the field. Participating in life enduring continuing education will ensure you remain competitive in your field. Taking individual courses will guarantee you stay abreast of recent developments and changes in popular methodologies or technologies. Think back to animation twenty years ago, ten years ago, even five years back. The difference in the graphics is astoundingly significant. Animation professionals need to be familiar and proficient with the most recent advancements to be able to successfully perform their job duties.

Advance your career or take it in an entirely different direction by completing certificate programs in any of the multiple specialization areas. Animators can learn to work in web development and advertising, films and television, advertising or as illustrators. Certificate programs in any of these areas can augment your credentials and make you more viable in the job market. Earning a certificate in another aspect of the animation field will broaden the employment choices offered. You can choose to find employment in another segment of the animation field. You can remain with your current employer, but with the opportunity to obtain a higher position within the company. Having multiple skills in a range of areas will make you more valuable to employers. Any company or organization will prefer to promote an individual knowledgeable in multiple areas with a comprehensive perspective to perform various tasks familiar with their company rather than be forced to hire an outside professional. You can also consider self employment, working on a contractual basis with multiple clients. Having extensive knowledge in a range of areas will make the possibility of working for you a viable option.

The graphic design field has always been competitive and is expected to continue in this trend. Job growth in graphic design is not projected to grow substantially, only increasing approximately by the average employment growth rate. Experienced graphic designers will be given preference by employers. Recent graduates of graphic design degree programs will have to rely on their educational credentials to persuade employers to offer them positions. Choosing a school with a well regarded program in the graphic design or related fields is important since it could be a critical deciding factor. With these facts in mind, take the time to make a discerning decision on which school to attend.

Consider the factors employers may find of most importance; quality of the degree program, reputation of the school, accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Choose a college which offers a superior academic program. The college should provide current technology and design software with which to train their students. Employers will want individuals who are capable of utilizing both effectively. Consider the resources the college offers to their students. Some college campuses have technology laboratories with state of the art equipment provided for their student’s use. Another area to consider would be any affiliations the college has with companies or organizations in relation to the graphic design industry. These types of connections could facilitate internship opportunities and may result in job offers.

Below is a list of the top ranked graphic design programs from which you can begin your search:

1. Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University was one of steel magnate Andrew Carnegie’s many contributions to society. Founded in 1900, the university began as Carnegie Technical Schools before becoming the Carnegie Institute of Technology in 1912. From there the school merged with Mellon Institute of Industrial Research in 1967 to become the Carnegie Mellon we know today. The school is world renowned, earning the 21st overall position in the Top 200 World Universities done by Times Higher Education, and US News and World Report ranked Carnegie Mellon 22nd in the nation amongst national research universities. Students benefit from the opportunity of being able to choose from seven colleges and independent schools within the University; Graphic Design students would be attending the College of Fine Arts. This college was honored in 2008 with a #1 ranking for its MFA Design program by US News and World Report.

The College of Fine Arts takes a holistic approach to teaching design, emphasizing learning through doing. This first involves taking students through a Freshman year primarily concerned with discovery, enabling students to begin acquiring basic skills while also allowing them to become aware of social and cultural contexts of design. Subsequent years see students concentrating on their chief interest, which for Graphical Design students would mean Communication Design. Students also delve into design history and the opportunity to study abroad is presented. Finally, for senior year students form teams and work on interdisciplinary projects that encompass everything they have learned at Carnegie Mellon.

2. Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University was initially founded in 1838 as a medical college and has expanded throughout the last century to become the well respected, state affiliated university it is today. Virginia Commonwealth University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and has several specialized program accreditations. Considered a research institution, VCU contributes to the advancement and development of the many disciplines it teaches. The skilled teaching of the faculty members and the collaborative information derived from professional resources within the local community ensure graduates receive a comprehensive and rigorous educational experience.

The 120 credit Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in Graphic Design offered at Virginia Commonwealth University prepares students for the competitive professional fields in creative design. The curriculum includes foundational courses in art which must be completed prior to admission to the graphic design program. The program addresses the areas of communication, ethics, communication technology, and distinguishing a target audience and adapting communications towards their needs. The rigorous program requires students to adhere to a high level of professional performance. Students complete courses in methodology and research which include surface research, space research, quantitative literacy, focused inquiry, survey of western art, history of visual communication and a range of design specific courses.

3. Rhode Island School of Design

The Rhode Island School of Design, one of the finest stand alone design schools in the country, was founded in 1877 in Providence, Rhode Island. Today the school offers a rich student life that includes shared resources with contiguous Brown University including social, academic, and community resources. Students at RISD have the opportunity to attend joint courses with the Ivy League school. Over 2,200 students and 350 faculty and curators call the Rhode Island School of Design home, and the school also receives visits from over 200 artists in a typical year.

RISD offers an intense Graphic Design program that includes study in communications theory, design history, visual form-making, color, systems thinking and information design, as well as extensive study of typography. Students are encouraged to create their own personal design language as they progress through the course of study, emphasized by the focus on creative decision making and analytical problem solving skills. The school offers a traditional four year undergraduate degree that results in a Bachelor of Fine Arts, but students can also choose to embark upon a five year program that results in a
Bachelor of Graphic Design which shows that a student has reached a higher level of proficiency.

4. Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute has been one of the leading art schools in the country since its founding in 1886. Pratt is a member of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design, an organization consisting of 36 of the premier art schools in the United States. Students at the Pratt Institute have their choice of three campuses located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Utica, although the main part of campus is located in Brooklyn (fans of the television show ‘Fringe’ will recognize the campus quite well, as it stands in for Harvard on the show).

Graphic Design students at Pratt Institute take an undergraduate course of study in Communications Design, which leads students to one of three careers; the aforementioned Graphic Design, Illustration, or Advertising Art Direction. Regardless of their career path, all students are taught the same skills and studio techniques and all students learn proficiency in photography, painting, computer graphics, film, typography, and printmaking. Pratt Institute places great value on graduates being proficient problem solvers, and thus want their students to have the skills to be managers, directors, and top artists instead of simply technicians. One big feather in Pratt Institute’s cap are the multitude of internship possibilities presented by the school’s New York City location. Pratt Institute students will find ample internship opportunities at large and influential advertising agencies, design firms, and publishing houses.

5. Maryland Institute College of Art

The Maryland Institute College of Art is one of the oldest art colleges in the United States, having been founded in 1826 as the Maryland Institute for the Promotion of the Mechanic Arts. The school is quite distinguished and this is reflected in recent US News and World Report rankings, placing the Maryland Institute College of Art 4th in the nation for Masters of Fine Arts programs, with special recognition for its Masters in Graphic Design program. It was also listed in the nation’s top 25 design schools by ID magazine.

Graphic Design students enrolling in the Maryland Institute College of Art benefit from an internationally renowned faculty and many opportunities for hands on learning experiences. Students majoring in Graphic Design will take a total of 126 credits, spanning three years (following a freshman “Foundation” year), with 63 of those being in the concentrated field of Graphic Design. The core courses begin Sophomore year with heavy focus on typography and the core concepts of graphic design, followed by more hands on experience Junior and Senior years.

6. Cranbrook Academy of Art

Cranbrook Academy of Art is a part of Cranbrook Educational Community located in the Detroit, Michigan suburb of Bloomfield Hills. The school was founded in 1984 and had a large role in shaping American infrastructural design, so much so that the New York Times said in 1984 that “Cranbrook, surely more than any other institution, has a right to think of itself as synonymous with contemporary American design.”

Cranbrook doesn’t have faculty, instead they have artists-in-residence, each of whom are real working artists. Their disciplines are intimate, only admitting 10 students per year each. Students who don’t want to mess with unrelated curriculum requirements will love Cranbrook, who get down to the core of Art and Design right away. The school in fact has no departmental or curriculum requirements. Instead students simply have Studios, minors, and a Critical Studies and Humanities sequence. Currently the Graphic Design discipline is taught by Cranbrook alum Elliott Earls a graphic and performance artist who has lived and taught all over the world. Cranbrook is an atypical school that is perfect if you are an elite student looking for a unique experience.

7. University of Delaware

The long history of the University of Delaware began with their founding as a private institution in 1743. Among their alumni, the University of Delaware boasts three signers of the Declaration of Independence and one United States Constitution signer. The University of Delaware has earned the distinction as a research university; a title applied to only 3% of institutions. The superior academic programs offered at the University of Delaware include 130 bachelors, 79 master and 39 doctoral programs within seven colleges. Students are afforded the opportunity to learn from the award winning faculty members who teach at the school; including Nobel laureates, a Pulitzer Prize winner and Guggenheim and Fulbright Fellows.

The Department of Art at the University of Delaware offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Degree. The curriculum requirements include 18 credits in foundational art courses. Courses include foundation drawing, 2- dimensional design, digital media and research studio. Students are required to complete at least 75 credit hours in courses within the art department. Concentrations within the major are offered and can be completed with 30 credits within the focused area. The Department of Art incorporates trips to a variety of major art centers to view the work of renowned artists and designers. Campus resources include the Recitation Gallery, a Macintosh equipped computer art site, studio work shops and a digital laboratory.

8. California Institute of the Arts

CalArts has one of the most unique founding story of all the schools on our list, having been founded in 1961 by Walt Disney (he merged two failing schools, the Chouinard Art Institute and the Los Angeles Conservatory of Music). The school, ever since its foundation, has taking funding from the Walt Disney family. Walt Disney originally had a vision that involved interdisciplinary learning where students would learn a variety of skills. CalArts thus became the first school in the country to offer BFAs and MFAs in both performing and visual arts.

The Graphic Design program at CalArts emphasizes both the practical and conceptual sides of the discipline. Students benefit from intimate classes that feature critique-based learning that ensures lots of hands on opportunities. Students work in a communal setting and have access to studios that are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Faculty is accomplished and the school provides students additional opportunity for learning through visits from guests and traveling faculty from other schools. CalArts makes sure that each student not only learns abstractly, but also hands on, which guarantees that the student will not only have a transcript upon graduation but also a strong portfolio to present as they head out into the working world.

9. Corcoran College of Art and Design

Corcoran College of Art and Design was originally established in the late 1800’s in reaction to the enthusiastic response of patrons of the Corcoran Gallery of Art. The college is located in the heart of Washington DC’s cultural district, amidst an array of museums. Since its beginnings, Corcoran has offered students the opportunity to become immersed within the visual arts fields while pursuing their various degree programs. The campus has studio locations and classrooms at three locations around the nation’s capitol. Students are offered the option of pursuing non-credit, part time credit and continuing education credit courses. Fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education since the 1980’s, Corcoran College is also a member of the National Association of Schools of Art.

The 120 credit Bachelor of Fine Art degree in Graphic Design provides students with the fundamental skills and practical knowledge of the field through academic courses and hands on work experience. The graphic design curriculum includes studies in the areas of theory, history and technology. Courses specific to the major include typography, publication design, fundamentals of graphic design, writing, art history, communication design, design concepts, contemporary culture and theories and history of graphic design. Students can participate in internships with MTV, National Geographic Magazine, MTV, America Online and the Marriott Corporation. Social Awareness programs within the college allow students the opportunity to participate in special projects with a social impact.

10. Drexel University

The Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design at Drexel University is committed to providing degree programs with an emphasis on practical industry relevant experience. The industry focused programs offered at Drexel University ensure their graduates are prepared to be successful contenders in the exceptionally competitive creative fields. Drexel University provides their students with a unique comprehensive educational experience which combines creative coursework with valuable science and humanities curriculum. Students are encouraged to participate in entrepreneurial projects and activities which offer a wealth of professionally relevant experience. The courses are taught by experienced industry professionals who offer students the benefit of their career perspectives. Classes are small in size and taught in studio settings.

The degree programs offered in graphic design at Drexel University’s Westphal College provides students with both education and work experience. The 182 credit Bachelor of Science Graphic Design degree curriculum develops student’s creative and problem solving skills and trains them to produce a variety of visual communication projects for a range of print and interactive media ventures. Students can pursue a specialization in environmental design, web and motion design or advertising design. Courses required to be completed include at least 63 general education requirements: expository, analytical and persuasive writing and reading; physical science for design and mathematical foundations for design. Visual studies credits include several history of art courses, design courses, painting and drawing courses in which 46 credits must be completed. In addition to the academic work, students are expected to participate in the university’s Co-op program which affords them the opportunity to gain essential work experience.

Degrees in Fashion

Fashion designers are essentially artists who create with fabric and other related materials. Many in the industry claim to have felt the initial pull towards the profession at a young age; preferring to play with clothing and accessories than the more standard amusements enjoyed by their peers. They read the top fashion magazines, dream in fabric and colors, track fashion trends with the enthusiasm that sports fanatics memorize athlete statistics, and have the innate ability and imagination to create clothing and/or accessories suitable for various body sizes and shapes. A fashion designer usually has a passion for clothing and an aptitude in creativity. Essentially, fashion designers are driven, ambitious and savvy individuals with exceptional business, communication and artistic skills; willing to sacrifice with long, hard hours for the privilege of working in the industry.

Fashion Design is a versatile profession offering aspiring designers a range of career paths. Most often, people aspiring to become a fashion designer do so with the hope of one day owning their own clothing line. Unfortunately, this dream may not be realized for every individual. However, there are many other professional positions and opportunities within the field of fashion design which provide aspiring fashion designers employment in the field they love. Positions in the fashion design industry include costume designers for the performing arts in television or movies, designing clothing for apparel wholesalers or manufacturers, self employed contractors who sell their own designs to stores or boutiques and various design positions within existing design firms.

The field of fashion design is glamorous, challenging, exciting and fiercely competitive. Successful professionals in the fashion design field often have the opportunity to work with celebrities and leaders of industry. Becoming a successful fashion designer requires determination, perseverance, education and skill. According to the United States Department of Labor, the fashion design industry is concentrated in specific limited regions and account for a limited number of jobs within the United States. An increase in the job positions available for fashion designers over the next ten years is expected to be rise around 1%. Competition for the positions which do become available will be intense. Education, job experience and the quality of the applicants’ portfolios will likely make the difference between receiving a job offer and having to take a position in another field.

High School

With the competitiveness of the fashion design industry becoming increasingly keen, education and training are imperative to the success of aspiring fashion designers. High school lays the foundation for all future education and training. Complete the basic requisite courses necessary to graduate and to gain college admission. The courses in mathematics, science and English provide training beyond the course specific knowledge. These courses help develop analytical thinking, problem solving skills and communication skills. Complete courses in technology and computers. Computers have become an essential tool utilized by every field and industry in the current job market. Developing a proficiency in understanding and operating computers and the basic programs will not be optional, but required, in order to be employable in most professional markets.

High School students are generally permitted to choose some elective courses. It is important to take home economic courses if they are offered. Home economic courses generally provide basic training in sewing and sometimes patternmaking. Knowledge in these areas will be especially important in the fashion design field. Entry level positions within the fashion design industry are sometimes in these types of positions. Even if you do not perform these tasks yourself, understanding the basics of these areas will be necessary in order to accurately produce your designs. If the school doesn’t offer this type of course, check the local college or community centers to see if they offer instructional courses in this area. Not only will this provide training and experience in these essential skills, but it will also provide substance for the portfolio you will likely need to submit to college.

Technical School programs are often offered as an alternative to the traditional high school curriculum. These programs can be invaluable in providing an early beginning to understanding and becoming skilled in various fields. Receiving concentrated education in fields requiring practical skills at an early stage is helpful in developing an expertise in the subject. A fashion design program may not be offered at most technical schools. Take advantage of the opportunity if the school does offer a program in fashion design. However, fashion design is a creative field which requires a range of skills that may be offered in similar programs. If the technical school doesn’t offer a fashion design program, find out if the technical school offers programs in other creative or visual arts fields. The training in fields such as web design, graphic design, fashion merchandising or advertising will be immensely beneficial.

High School students should seek out opportunities to develop skills and gain experience in fashion design. Activities within and outside of high school can provide invaluable experience. Participate in clubs which utilize creative skills; such as photography clubs and year book committees. Both provide experience with certain skills in creating layouts and recognizing coordinating colors and backgrounds. Volunteer your services to the school drama club. Design and create the costumes for the plays. Local community theatre groups might also need someone to help with their costumes. As a high school, you have access to a substantial population of potential critics and customers. Organize a fashion show to display your own clothing designs. Offer students the option of purchasing your selections. Look for after school job opportunities in clothing retail stores, small boutiques or with a design firm which may require intern type services.

College For Fashion Designers

The fashion design industry places significant importance on the quality of the design program or school attended. Industry professionals are expected to be familiar with historical trends, be knowledgeable about current trends and able to predict future fashion trends. Familiarity with marketing, advertising, business and technology are essential to becoming successful as a fashion designer. The school attended should provide training in each of these areas. Schools accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design are generally held in higher regard than other programs. The organization was founded in 1944 to help standardize the quality of programs offered within these fields. Attending one of the nearly 300 colleges accredited by the NASAD will ensure you receive the level of training expected and that your degree will be well received by the fashion industry leaders.

Gaining admission into a design school is extremely competitive. Colleges with fashion design programs will limit their consideration to those individuals who maintained high grades, score well on the college admission or SAT tests and participated in activities or have experience with design relevance. Maintain high grades in all courses and take advanced placement courses if you are able. Some students may be able to take college courses during their senior year of high school. Take advantage of the opportunity if it is offered as it is evidence of academic ability and commitment. Not only will applicants need to demonstrate academic aptitude, but a propensity for creativity as well. Students will have to submit a portfolio demonstrating the quality, type and extent of their work. Include only the best evidence of your work.

Both associate and bachelor degree programs are offered in fashion design. It is always advisable to obtain a bachelor degree when possible. A bachelor degree is held in higher regard and, again, exhibits the individual’s commitment to learning and essentially the fashion design field. The curriculum usually includes coursework in fashion history, computer-aided design, sewing, color, textiles, tailoring, pattern making and the general core courses. Degree programs include open electives which allow students to select their own courses without specific limitations. Use these electives to take courses in business or marketing. Increasing your knowledge in these areas will prove beneficial. Understanding the dynamics and basics of both fields will facilitate better decision making in regards to determining how to proceed when employed in the fashion design field.

Internships for Fashion Designers

Colleges develop affiliations with companies and organizations in various industries. These affiliations are used to the benefit of their students in a number of ways; among which are internships. Internships allow students the opportunity to learn first hand the business in which they are interested in working. Additionally, most industries prefer to hire job candidates with some experience in the field. In the fashion design industry, this is especially true. Companies need individuals who understand and are prepared for the fast paced climate of the industry. This understanding comes only from time spent in working within the field; performing the tasks while contending with the pressures. An internship satisfies the job experience preference of many employers. It also provides networking connections which may be advantageous after graduation.

Professional Portfolio

Most of the creative fields require industry professionals to have a portfolio of their work. A professional portfolio will be a compilation of only your best designs. These can include designs you did during college, while working in an internship position, for friends or family, for a community event or even ones you created for no particular purpose or person. Fashion designers find inspiration for designs are unpredictable and may arise at any time. These designs of inspiration can be used to advantage; augmenting your design portfolio. The portfolio can contain sketches of your designs or photographs of designs that you have created worn on mannequins.

Potential employers or clients viewing the portfolio expect it to exhibit the individuals passion for the field. Continue to add to your portfolio as you progress from high school to college to internships and/or paid positions. If you have a particular area of interest in a certain fashion category such as career wear, accessories or junior wear, you can dedicate a section of your portfolio specfically to those designs. Some designers include only designs for the area in which they are most interested. Creating clothing designs of varied categories can be a helpful resource in case a position arises outside of that particular area. You may also want to include sample garments. Sending the portfolio to fashion houses and to design houses will help trigger interest in your work or, at the very least, provide exposure for your designs.

Work and Research Experience

Successful fashion designers are not usually born overnight. Success in the field of fashion design requires years of hard work, experience and industry knowledge. Entering your designs in amateur contests is one avenue for gaining experience and exposure. Staying current on emerging trends is essential to success. Continue to read fashion magazines and attend fashion events which offer the most cutting edge designs. Most experience is gained through working within the industry. But some knowledge and success is directly attirbutable to research. Research will always be an essential aspect of the design process. Expect to begin your career in an entry level position such as sketching assistant or a pattern maker. As you become proficient with computer aided design software and familiar with the various aspects of the design production process, employers will take notice and offer advancement opportunities. After time, an experienced fashion designer may become chief designer or head of the design department.

In the fashion design industry, the college where an individual earns their degree is exceptionally important. Aspiring fashion designers with a degree in the field will be assessed by employers, clients and other fashion designers based on the reputation of the college just as they would judge an article of clothing by the label affixed to it. Not all fashion design programs are of the same quality; some programs do not provide the level of training deemed necessary by the fashion design industry.

Academics are always an integral aspect of any college degree program. In order to be successful, Students need a thorough academic program which encompasses all aspects of the educational spectrum. However, the best colleges providing degree programs in fashion design must also include comprehensive training in art, sketching and a number of technical areas as well. The schools need to provide state of the art technology with which to train their students. And the program content must remain abreast of the changing trends within the dynamic field of fashion design.

There are certain factors which can make the decision as to which college to attend easier. Accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design or NASAD is a chief indication that the college offers a superior program in fashion design. The NASAD requires colleges to meet rigorous standards in order to be considered for accreditation by their organization. The process is lengthy in duration; often taking years. A visit to the college by NASAD to ensure the program meets their standards is mandatory and a detailed report must be completed prior to a final decision being made by the commission judge. In addition to the academic aspects and the technical training offered by the college, prospective students should take into account other services and features provided such as internships, job placement programs, special projects opportunities and affiliations with industry organizations.

Below is a list of ten college fashion design degree programs ranked among the top in the nation:

1. California College of the Arts

California College of the Arts, founded in 1907, offers a wide range of interdisciplinary degree programs in architecture, design, fine arts and writing. California College of the Arts has attained several accreditations including both the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the National Association of Schools of art and Design. Curriculum for the degree programs at CCA is designed to combine a broad educational experience with practical training in the arts. The degree program also develops the student’s abilities in analytical and critical thinking and problem solving while instilling in them an awareness of their social responsibility. Students are prepared to become influential contributors to the creative fields in which they are interested as well as to their communities. The college boasts several notable alumni such as the designers Michael Vanderbyl and Lucille Tenazas and the filmmaker Wane Wang.

The Fashion Design Program at California College of the Arts presents an innovative approach to a long-standing, established creative field. CCA boasts one of only fifteen programs in the country to receive an invitation by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Students are taught the fundamental skills of design, conceptual development and communication necessary to become successful professionals. The curriculum includes training in pattern making, sewing, fashion illustration and draping; all of which are considered essential educational aspects by the fashion industry. Required courses in the major include drawing, visual 2- 3- and 4- dimensional dynamics, fashion illustration, body in motion drawing, studio, eco seminar, elements of production, diversity studies and portfolio review. The degree program includes the development of a professional portfolio and participation in a senior fashion show intended to provide experience and exposure for the students. Internships are also available.

2. Cleveland Institute of Art

The Cleveland Institute of Art, established in 1882, is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. The college earned the prestigious NASAD accreditation as a result of their dedication to providing a superior quality education to their students. The sixteen studio majors offered at the Cleveland Institute of Art provide a challenging educational experience which build on the existing talent and creative skills of the students. The campus is located in the midst of a city which offers extensive cultural resources including museums, galleries and access to performing arts and other colleges. With enrollment limited to a small number of exceptional students, class sizes are small and the faculty to student ratio a mere nine to one. The college provides the latest in technology so that their students are able to gain experience working with the most advanced software tools.

The art and design programs at the Cleveland Institute of Art incorporate training in all relevant aspects of the field. Students complete a liberal arts curriculum in addition to the art and design specific courses. Business education and professional skills specific to each creative profession are addressed within the context of the program. The program is designed to begin with a foundational understanding of and to provide exposure to the field as a whole. Students are then able to select their area of interest or major. The Fiber and Material Studies degree program encompasses the breadth of the various professional areas affected, influenced or involved with textiles. Students of the program examine techniques and ideology related to materials including weaving, sewing, pattern making, computer aided design, stitching, dying and felt making. Courses include pattern design, intro to fiber, patternmaking and fabrication, sustainable design and advanced studio problems. Internships are offered.

3. Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Massachusetts College of Art and Design was the first college to offer degrees in the art field. Established in 1873, Massachusetts College of Art and Design endeavored to provide talented creative individuals with the necessary training to become successful professionals in the fields of teaching, design, architecture and as various artists. The college is an independent public college and a leader in art and design education dedicated to the success of their students. Students are encourage to think beyond established boundaries in the creative disciplines and expected to use the skills attained through their education to achieve their potential. The college is committed to the concept of lifetime learning; offering professional and continuing education courses and workshops. The latest technologies for the creative fields are provided for student use to ensure graduates are proficient with them.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design program offered at Massachusetts College of Art and Design is comprehensive and challenging. Students are taught the creative and practical aspects of the field; creating unique designs while considering the areas of cost and marketability. The curriculum includes traditional design concepts, computer aided design, pattern making, detailing and accessories. Among the required courses provided are culture, dress and identity, color, line and design, history of textiles and U4ia (CAD), fashion history, handbag design, fashion illustration, pattern drafting and construction and fashion industry production/Gerber. The courses include traditional classroom lectures and hands on practical application of the skills being taught through design exercises. Students are required to complete a degree project which incorporates the research and design techniques taught; developing a clothing line of their own. A two year certificate in fashion design is also available. Internship opportunities are offered.

4. Parson’s The New School For Design

Since its early beginnings in 1906, Parson’s The New School for Design has provided cutting edge educational programs in fashion design. Parson’s is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The College endeavors to provide a challenging experience intended to develop the creative, academic and problem solving skills of their students. At Parson’s, students receive a thorough and innovative design education encompassing the use of the latest and newest technologies. Parson’s graduates are prepared for the challenges of the design industry; learning to contend with problems associated with the various markets. Students are afforded the opportunity to interact with professionals in the fashion industry. The College has produced alumni credited with revolutionizing the trends of fashion and the industry.

Parson’s The New School for Design provides a Bachelor of Fine Art degree program in fashion design. The program includes training in every aspect of the design process from the initial stages through development. Students learn concept development and studio methods, the basics of machine knitting and marketing strategies essential to success in the business arena. Courses include drawing studio, 2- and 3- dimensional studio, perspectives in world art and design, fashion digital studio, history of design, history, culture, society, fashion design core, themes in fashion history, global issues in design and visuality and business seminar. Menswear tailoring and Shoe design courses requires students to create and produce their own design project. The course, Themes in fashion history, provides a comprehensive perspective of the industry changes over time. The technological training includes the use of digital imaging and multimedia for design purposes. Students participate in fashion shows, special projects and internships.

5. Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute’s School of Art and Design strives to produce qualified design graduates instilled with the knowledge, experience and technical abilities necessary to become leaders in the field. Pratt institute is a premier educational center, recognized for both their superior programs and extensive educational resources. The Pratt Institute endeavors to help their talented students realize their potential through a unique comprehensive educational curriculum which combines a liberal arts education with professional development. Faculty members are renowned award winning professionals recognized for their work in the various fields in the art and design industry. The campus includes an art supply store, a Design center equipped with the latest technology and offers proximity to one the fashion capitols of the world. Located in New York City, one of the fashion industry’s central locations, students of Pratt Institute are afforded the opportunity to experience the design industry while learning it.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design at the Pratt Institute is an interdisciplinary program which offers educational and practical training. Students learn pattern drafting, draping, construction, sketching and techniques specific to various types of clothing lines. Required courses in the curriculum include textiles, light color and design, sketching, construction techniques, fundamentals, fashion survey, survey of art, intro to literary and critical studies, introduction to apparel presentation, history of costume design, tailoring techniques and computer aided fashion design. Electives are offered in a range of specializations which allow students to explore areas such as accessories, printmaking and jewelry design. Collaboration is an integral aspect of the program, preparing students to become functioning members of a design team. Students participate in the renowned annual fashion show, known as the Pratt show. Field trips and internships are another aspect of the program which provides opportunities for experience.

6. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

The Rhode Island School of Design was established in 1877 for the purpose of providing education in creative design fields. The college endeavors to instill in their students the importance of distinctiveness and an appreciation for art and design in the public. Throughout its long history, RISD has continued to provide students with superior, consistently relevant and socially responsible educational programs. At the RISD, students are encouraged to consider the economic impact of their artistic designs. Graduates of the program are equipped to meet the demands of the profession and exceed the expectations of the industry. Rhode Island School of Design is dedicated to teaching global perspectives respecting diversity and cultural appreciation. The school offers sixteen undergraduate majors with three areas of concentration. Faculty members at the college are experienced and practicing professionals in the various art and design fields.

The Bachelor of Fine arts degree program in Apparel Design at Rhode Island School of Design provides a comprehensive education in the fine arts as well as a broad foundation in liberal arts. The Department of Apparel Design is equipped with the most advanced technology, 2- and 3- dimensional software and U4ia, and the latest in specialized sewing equipment. Students learn to create, design and produce functional and novel clothing. The curriculum includes coursework in pattern drafting, draping and construction, foundation drawing, two and three dimensional design, history of art and apparel studios. Special studio projects are assigned to students intended to develop the students’ creative design skills. The students also compete for a place in the annual fashion show, developing and producing a line of clothing to be judged by visiting professional critics who determine who earns the opportunity. Field trips to New York’s fashion district and a six week internship at a fashion in house located in the industry’s capitol cities; New York, London or Paris, are integral aspects of the degree program.

7. University of Cincinnati

The College of Design, Architecture, Art & Planning at the University of Cincinnati is dedicated to the development and dissemination of knowledge in the creative and technical fields through pioneering research and education. The challenging programs at the University of Cincinnati provide a superior quality education; ensuring graduates are equipped with the academic knowledge and technical skills necessary to become successful leaders in the industry. Students at the University of Cincinnati are prepared to meet the global challenges of the culturally diverse and continuously evolving design industry. Trained with cutting edge technology in the latest design techniques and trends, graduates of the University are competitively prepared for the various venues of the fashion and business arenas. Co-op programs are incorporated into the degree curriculum to ensure graduates attain a comprehensive understanding of the fields which they will eventually enter as professionals.

Two undergraduate curriculum tracks are offered at the College of Design, Architecture, Art & Planning within the School of Design; fashion design and fashion product development. Both programs require students to complete a liberal arts curriculum. The program for the design track provides concentrated studies on the design process and includes hands on training in the field. Students in the design track utilize current technologies and various media forms to prepare the future design professionals for their use in the field. Students learn the foundational aspects of the design field; sketching, design, planning, development, functionality, patternmaking, draping and tailoring. The product development curriculum concentrates on the development of apparel based on consumer trends and demand. Students in this track learn how to identify target markets, calculate cost analysis and various business essentials. Curriculum includes studies in consumer buying, aesthetics of apparel and image, textiles and clothing in the global economy and theoretical courses.

8. University of California Los Angeles (UCLA)

The University of California Los Angeles was established as part of the California State university system approximately sixty years ago. The university contains more than 50 academic departments; six of which offer nationally acclaimed degree programs. The College of Arts and Letters at UCLA strives to exceed the accreditation standards set by the Department of Education recognized agencies; earning their accreditation through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design as a result. A nationally recognized leader among colleges in the fields of liberal arts and in design, UCLA’s College of Arts and Letters provides a superior educational program which instills a life enduring aspiration for learning within its graduates. The interdisciplinary programs provide a comprehensive experience which prepares students to become socially responsible leaders capable of advancing the existing knowledge and capabilities within their professions.

The degree programs offered at the College of Arts and Letters include the Bachelor of Art with a concentration in Fashion and Textiles or in design, Master of Art in fashion and textiles and certificate programs in fashion design or in fashion merchandising. The degree programs provide a thorough foundational education in all aspects of the visual arts. The fashion and textiles program curriculum includes cultural studies of the origins and evolution of fashion in society. Students then have the option of pursuing their interests in specific areas. Students can choose a focus in fashion design, fashion merchandising or textiles. Programs with a specialization require 19-20 completed courses in the area of specialization. Major specific courses required of students in the program include world art, art fundamentals, apparel construction, textiles and apparel, fashion design: flat pattern, social aspects of fashion, historic textiles and senior project: fashion and textiles.

9. The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising

The Fashion Institute of design and merchandising is a private career college located in California, founded in 1969, dedicated to the creative arts fields. The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising is accredited by the Western association of Schools and Colleges and has attained accreditation through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. The college is known as the “West Coast home of Project Runway”. Among their most notable alumni is the cofounder of the Juicy Couture label, Pamela Skaist-Levy. The focused degree programs offered at the college provide graduates the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful, ethical leaders in the global business industry. The degree programs are continuously updated to ensure students receive the most current training in all aspects of the field.

The Associate of Arts in Fashion Design degree program offered at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising is a career concentrated degree program. The rigorous curriculum is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge in fashion theory, history and design. Students develop skills in the industry essential skills of communication and critical and analytical thinking and attain practical experience in the design process. Courses include fashion sketching for design, industrial sewing, pattern drafting essentials, draping and garment construction, creative design applications, business of fashion, computer aided fashion design, computer pattern drafting, portfolio preparation and color and design theory. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a fashion show. A range of specialized programs are offered in various aspects of design including theatre costume design, footwear design, textile design and jewelry design.

10. Woodbury University

Woodbury University was founded in 1884 originally as a business college; eventually expanding its programs to include design in 1931. The University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and has earned accreditation by various agencies for specific majors including, in 2008, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Woodbury strives to provide students with the tools and education to be effective professionals in the creative fields. The interdisciplinary program provides challenging degree programs that develop their students’ creative skills and adapts to their individual career goals. Faculty members are experienced professionals in the fields in which they teach and international experts routinely visit the campus to lecture. The on campus fashion study collection offers a visual look at 200 years of clothing and accessory history.

The School of Media, Culture and Design at Woodbury University provides a challenging degree program in the Fashion Design major. The curriculum includes the fundamental areas of drawing, fashion history, textiles, draping, apparel construction and pattern drafting. Students learn to create apparel for various clothing lines ranging from women’s wear to men’s wear to swimwear. A range of specialized courses can be taken by students including millinery, shoe and costume design. Courses include design elements, beginning drawing, fashion sketching, color theory, history of fashion, textiles, knitwear and swimwear, young career wear, soft tailoring and computer assisted fashion design. A minor in costume design is also offered within the department. Students are offered the opportunity to participate in an annual Gala where they can showcase their work.