In the modern business enterprise, accountants are expected to understand data analytics, forensic accounting, and risk management, among other highly sought-after skills. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies—like the software used to track financial transactions—can make accountants’ lives easier, but with each passing year, these technologies are taking over an increasing number of accounting tasks from trained individuals.
Accountants are understandably interested in the impact of AI on their profession. We’re here to make the argument that accountants should not only accept but embrace these smart technologies. Are AI and accounting the new chocolate and peanut butter? Let’s find out.
Most people’s understanding of AI comes from science fiction: stories in which, let’s say, a rogue AI declares war on the human race. AI, at least in the world of business, simply refers to technologies that can perform tasks that previously required the personal touch of a human.
AI has assumed many of the repetitive and rudimentary tasks accountants once performed, freeing them to focus on more complex responsibilities like analyzing financial records and meeting face-to-face with managers and stakeholders. Here are several ways that AI has changed accounting. Just don’t expect things to slow down anytime soon: AI is still in its infancy.
Data entry
Accounting software can extract and classify data from images with greater efficiency than any human can achieve. (Can you believe there was a time when every single piece of data had to be keyed in manually?) This is where AI impacts accounting most significantly, permitting trained professionals to save time on mind-numbing tasks. The emergence of big data and cloud computing will, however, increase the need for accountants with expertise in data analysis.
Auditing
As hawkeyed as the average accountant may be, there’s no competing with the speed and accuracy of an AI tool. AI can spot anomalies caused by fraudulent spending or human error, and thanks to big data, this technology can be scaled to audit a business’s every financial statement. As these data sets grow, so too will the challenges accountants face in ensuring their companies remain compliant with laws and regulations.
Forecasting
Machine learning, a type of AI that uses algorithms to adapt and improve over time, enables accountants to analyze and glean insights from historical data. This takes the form of predictive and prescriptive analytics, which identify future outcomes and provide recommendations for achieving business objectives, respectively. Accountants will always be needed to help businesses plan for the future. AI is just making their job a little easier.
We’ve left you hanging long enough. AI will not replace accountants, especially certified public accountants (CPAs), anytime soon. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that emerging technologies, including AI, aren’t expected to reduce demand for accountants and auditors, which is expected to grow by 6% over the course of the next decade.
What makes accountants such valued members of any business are their robust skill sets and extensive knowledge of financial planning, risk management, and tax reporting. As startups grow into multinational corporations, accountants can make sense of increasingly complex tax codes and financial records. And we’ve yet to see an AI tool that can build a rapport with clients or explain the results of financial analysis.
Deloitte’s 2022 Global Intelligent Automation survey asked executives to imagine an “ideal organization transformed by automation.” The survey revealed that businesses are moving closer to the ideal, with 46% of respondents planning to implement AI within the next three years. Traditionally, businesses have been slow to embrace disruptive technologies like AI, but those who do are more likely to survive in an increasingly automated world.
The role of accountants is evolving as businesses continue to adopt AI technology. No longer needed to collect and sort through data—leave that to AI—accountants are left to create concise, insightful reports and advise clients on how best to achieve their goals. This shift does, however, mean that accountants will have to further develop their technical and leadership skills and possibly become licensed CPAs. Professionals unable or unwilling to upskill could find themselves outcompeted by both peers and robots.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers online programs for aspiring professionals as well as those interested in pursuing a terminal accounting degree. They are:
BBA in Accounting
Our online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting provides the foundational knowledge needed to make it in the world of business. Students receive expert guidance on accounting principles, including the fundamentals of cost accounting, assurance services, and accounting information systems. Graduates are better prepared for careers as accountants, auditors, and financial analysts, among many others.
MBA in Accounting
Our online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with accounting emphasis empowers professionals with the business, interpersonal, and technical skills needed to steer organizations as financial experts. Able to be completed in as little as one year, our program offers students the choice to pursue their CPA licensure or take a broad course of study with our non-CPA track.
Master of Professional Accountancy
Our online Master of Professional Accountancy program provides an in-depth understanding of traditional and contemporary accounting practices. Students can graduate in as little as one year prepared to take the Texas CPA exam and earn their certification. Courses are entirely online and taught by the same business professionals who teach on campus.
All three programs are accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), and their online format allows you to pursue your degree without impacting your personal or professional life. Continue working while future-proofing your career with the help of UT Permian Basin online.
Ready to get started? Apply to one of our online BBA, MBA, or master’s degree in accounting programs to develop your skills in this ever-changing career field.
Sources:
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/accounting.asp#toc-history-of-accounting
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/03/05/harnessing-the-power-of-artificial-intelligence-in-accounting/?sh=185ed1bb1dae
https://www.accountingtoday.com/opinion/what-ai-does-for-accountants
https://www.becker.com/blog/the-future-of-ai-in-accounting-part-1
Watch any televised trial and you’ll hear terms like “discovery,” “objection,” and “subpoena,” being thrown around, but what do they mean? That’s what we’re here to find out.
Here are 10 of the most common criminal justice terms. We hope to provide some insight into the complex legal system and the essential roles performed by the criminal justice professionals within it. If you’re enjoying the read, stick around to learn how your interest in criminal justice can lead to a rewarding career.
1. Arraignment
An arraignment, or initial hearing, is a proceeding in which a defendant is brought before a judge, informed of their rights and the charges against them, and given an important choice: plead guilty or not guilty. Arraignments take place the day after an arrest at the latest, during which a judge will decide whether the defendant will be released on bail to await trial.
2. Bail
A judge will grant bail unless a defendant is likely to interfere with legal proceedings, e.g., miss their court date or intimidate a witness. A defendant posts bail, thereby securing their release from prison until their case is resolved, by paying an amount of money dependent on case specifics, such as the severity of the alleged crime. Once the trial is over, bail is returned to the defendant. Think of it as an incentive for defendants to show up for their criminal trial.
3. Contempt of Court
Nobody wants to get on a judge’s bad side. Contempt of court refers to a show of disrespect, disruption, or disobedience that interferes with court proceedings. Individuals held in criminal contempt can face steep fines and imprisonment, and anyone can be held in criminal contempt. A recent high-profile example is Alex Jones, who was fined $25,000 per day for refusing to sit for a deposition during the Sandy Hook defamation suits.
4. Discovery
Discovery is a process in which legal teams inform each other of the evidence and witness testimony that will be presented at trial. Parties can take depositions (an out-of-court statement), submit interrogatories (a list of questions), or file a subpoena (a request for evidence).
A trial is only fair if both sides are given the chance to support their argument and prepare for what the other side will present; otherwise, it’s known as a “trial by ambush.” Surprises are welcome in TV legal dramas—not in a court of law.
5. Habeas corpus
Habeas corpus (Latin for “you shall have the body”) commands that a prisoner be brought before a judge to determine if they are lawfully imprisoned. A prisoner can file a writ of habeas corpus, challenging the legality of their confinement, and can be released if their individual freedoms were violated.
The legal maxim “innocent until proven guilty” is a core element of the U.S. legal system. At any given time, however, about 445,000 people are in jail awaiting trial, many of whom are unable to afford bail. Habeas corpus helps protect these individuals from unlawful and indefinite imprisonment.
6. Hearsay
Anyone who followed the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard defamation trail is familiar with this common criminal justice term. (Hearsay objections were raised often, with Heard’s lawyer objecting to his own line of questioning at one point.) Hearsay is a statement made by a witness who learned of an event secondhand and is, therefore, not usually admissible in court.
7. Objection
The favored exclamation of ace attorneys everywhere, an objection is a challenge made by an attorney in a court of law. Objections are raised when evidence violates procedural law, e.g., an attorney is leading the witness (asking questions that could illicit a suggested response) or a witness statement is hearsay. Common objections include: argumentative, irrelevant, repetitive, and speculative. A judge decides whether to sustain or overrule the objection.
8. Reasonable Doubt
A reasonable doubt is an uncertainty based on reason, not speculation, derived after careful consideration of all the evidence. A member of the jury who is not convinced of a defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is obligated to find them not guilty. Such was the case in the trial of Casey Anthony, who was found not guilty of murdering her two-year-old daughter. Anthony lost in the court of public opinion, but the prosecution could not convince the jury of her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
9. Subpoena
There always seems to be news of a politician being subpoenaed, but what does this term mean in the context of criminal justice? A subpoena is a command issued by a judge for a witness to appear in court and give testimony. Similarly, a subpoena duces tecum is a command for a witness to produce documents or other form of evidence.
10. Verdict
After deliberating, the jury returns and the foreperson or court clerk delivers the verdict, or to put it simply, the final ruling. This is the moment of truth: when the defendant is found guilty or not guilty. A losing party can appeal to have the case reviewed by a higher court. An appeal is not a new trial, however, and unless a mistake was made during the proceedings, the verdict will stand.
We hope this list of common criminal justice terms has been informative and at least a little entertaining. Try as we might, we’ve only touched on the finer nuances of these terms, let alone what they really mean to professionals in criminal justice, including correctional, police, and probation officers.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers two online programs ideal for preprofessionals and current criminal justice professionals:
Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Studies: Composed of robust, research-based curriculum, this program empowers students to create change from within the criminal justice system. Explore all aspects of the criminal justice system, including corrections, courts, and law enforcement agencies.
Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration: Gain a deeper understanding of the issues plaguing the criminal justice system, whether they pertain to criminal law or law enforcement. Graduate in as little as one year, ready for leadership roles in which you’ll operate with the utmost integrity in the pursuit of justice.
Entirely online, our criminal justice programs allow you to study when it’s convenient for you, whether you prefer to study after a workday or over the course of a long weekend. Our online programs are of the highest quality, with courses taught by experts with extensive experience in the field of criminal justice. When you graduate, you’ll receive the same prestigious degree awarded on campus.
The common criminal justice terms we’ve listed are only a taste of what’s in store for you in our virtual classroom. Apply to one of our online criminal justice programs and prepare to pursue a career that will let you give back to your community and better society.
Sources:
https://www.uscourts.gov/glossary
https://www.justice.gov/usao/justice-101/glossary
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/contempt-court.asp#toc-penalties-for-contempt-of-court
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/law_related_education_network/how_courts_work/discovery
https://www.aclu.org/other/what-you-should-know-about-habeas-corpus.
https://www.ce9.uscourts.gov/jury-instructions/node/338
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/law_related_education_network/how_courts_work/appeals/
What’s Valentine’s Day without a bouquet of roses, heartfelt greeting card, or heart-shaped box of chocolates? At least, that’s what it feels like for anyone shopping for their significant other, if only to outdo the previous year.
No wonder so many people believe that this commercial holiday started as a marketing ploy. In actuality, the origins of Valentine’s Day are steeped in history. (The same can’t be said about Singles Awareness Day, which follows on the 15th.)
Valentine’s Day is named after St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, beekeepers, and epileptics. Little is known of St. Valentine, and there’s dispute as to whether he was one person. Multiple historical figures were named Valentine or Valentinus, the two most likely candidates being martyrs beheaded on February 14 around 270 A.D. for performing miracles.
According to legend, St. Valentine was a bishop of Terni put to death for healing a blind child. Another legend tells how, after being imprisoned for helping Christians escape Roman persecution, he signed a letter to his jailor’s daughter “from your Valentine.” Separating fact from fiction in these romantic backstories is challenging, however, as most originated after the time of St. Valentine.
How exactly did a Christian martyr become the patron saint of lovers? No one knows. Nonetheless, St. Valentine became a religious and romantic figure, and by the Middle Ages he was one of the most popular saints throughout Europe.
We’ll get back to St. Valentine. Now, our look at the origins of Valentine’s Day takes us to Ancient Rome and the pagan holiday Lupercalia. Celebrated on the ides of February, Lupercalia saw Roman men drink to excess, remove their clothes, and sacrifice a goat. (When in Rome!) They then took to the streets, slapping women with strips of goat hide. Roman women—if history is to be believed—lined up to take part, hoping it would lead to a healthy pregnancy.
Pope Gelasius was not a fan of Lupercalia, to say the least. Condemning the superstitious holiday in the late fifth century, Gelasius and the Catholic Church declared February 14 to be St. Valentine’s Day. Certainly, Gelasius picked the date to commemorate the death of St. Valentine, but we can’t help but wonder if he saw an opportunity to replace a pagan holiday.
English poet Geoffrey Chaucer was the first to associate Valentine’s Day with romance. In his 1375 poem “Parliament of Foules,” Chaucer pointed out that Valentine’s Day coincided with the start of bird nesting season, lending credence to the idea that the day should be a celebration of love.
The idea caught on, especially after poets and playwrights further romanticized the holiday. “Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s Day. / All in the morning betime, / and I a maid at your window, / to be your Valentine,” says Ophelia in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”
By the 1400s, friends and couples throughout Europe were exchanging handwritten poems: a precursor to today’s greeting cards. The practice came to the New World in the 1700s, about the time commercially printed cards were gaining popularity.
When Esther Howland of Massachusetts came across an imported card in the 1840s, she was inspired to improve on its beautiful but expensive design. Her creation of gilded lace, wafer paper, and cupid ornaments led to the first mass-produced valentines in America. “No other producer of commercial valentines understood so well their potential for the tactile communication of complex feeling,” wrote author Barry Shank.
Over the centuries, Valentine’s Day has transformed from a blend of Roman rituals and Christian martyrdom into one of the most celebrated and commercial holidays worldwide. Here’s a quick look at how it all unfolded, from ancient rites to record-breaking spending:
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated the world over. According to Hallmark, about 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged every year. Americans spent approximately $24 billion on Valentine’s Day in 2022.
Love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day has grown into one of the largest commercial holidays, with people everywhere shopping online and in person for the perfect gift for that special someone.
No, Valentine’s Day didn’t start as a marketing ploy. However, that hasn’t stopped marketers from using the holiday to boost sales or tailor their messaging to lovestruck audiences. (We’re guessing this isn’t what Pope Gelasius had in mind.)
Still, marketers must be capable of leveraging holidays like Valentine’s Day if they’re to help businesses, particularly e-commerce sites, rise above the competition.
Curious how a holiday rooted in ancient Rome and Christian martyrdom evolved into one of the biggest spending events of the year? These commonly asked questions unpack the history, myths, and marketing behind Valentine’s Day.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an online undergraduate certificate in digital marketing. Accredited by the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International), our certificate program provides foundational knowledge of advertising, marketing analytics, social media marketing, and other tools and strategies essential for careers in marketing.
We think you’ll be particularly interested in our online course E-Commerce, which covers such topics as content management, mobile commerce, and online auctions. Upon completion, you’ll be capable of implementing an e-commerce plan of your own.
Our certificate program can be completed in tandem with any of UT Permian Basin’s bachelor’s degree programs. Visit our Programs and Courses page to discover what UT Permian Basin online has to offer.
Ready to get started? Apply now to our online undergraduate certificate in digital marketing. We can’t offer you a Valentine’s Day card, but we think an undergraduate certificate is a worthy substitute.
Sources:
https://theconversation.com/the-real-st-valentine-was-no-patron-of-love-90518?xid=PS_smithsonian
https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/saint-st-valentines-day
https://www.statista.com/statistics/285028/us-valentine-s-day-sales
Every year, new trends and technologies emerge to influence how we develop strategies, deliver content, and connect with audiences, and 2023 looks to be no different. Marketers with their finger on the pulse of culture and society will have a distinct advantage over the competition. As for those who don’t, they probably aren’t going to…
Many of us feel the invigorating sense of fresh starts and second chances that New Year’s brings. On January 1st, we’re often eager to embrace a healthier, polished version of ourselves—and we’re not alone. According to a 2024 Forbes Health poll, 48% of participants said improving their fitness was their top priority, 36% cited improving…
“Business” is a broad term encompassing marketing, management, accounting, finance, and other functional areas. Each of these areas play a key role in the operation and success of any business, but for this article we’re going to focus on marketing. First, with a definition from a leading marketing organization, and then some clarification of our…
The Harlem Renaissance wasn’t just an artistic movement: It was a cultural revolution that redefined Black identity in America. In the 1920s, Harlem became the epicenter of a creative explosion in literature, music, and art, as Black Americans sought new opportunities and self-expression. The movement gave rise to legendary figures like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington whose influence still shapes American culture today.
But what sparked this extraordinary era of innovation? What led to its decline? And how did it transform Harlem and beyond? Below, we explore the forces that fueled the Harlem Renaissance and the lasting impact it left on the world.
By the 1920s, the American economy was booming. American youth rebelled against pre-war cultural conventions and rigid traditions with the rise of speakeasies, short hairstyles, and, of course, jazz—a genre deeply rooted in African American musical traditions. Created through a fusion of ragtime and blues, jazz was more than just music: It was an expression of freedom and cultural defiance.
While Harlem was originally intended as an upper-class white neighborhood, excess housing left many buildings empty. This opportunity appealed to Black New Yorkers and those fleeing oppression in the South.
As Harlem filled with musicians, poets, and artists, it became the heartbeat of the Jazz Age. Legendary venues like the Cotton Club and the Savoy Ballroom hosted performers such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Bessie Smith, shaping the sound of a generation. Harlem had become the center of a movement that redefined American culture, bringing African American artistry to the mainstream while challenging racial barriers.
The flourishing new music, art, fashion, and theater scene quickly translated to the literary world. Alain Locke published his famous work “The New Negro” in Harlem in 1925, which featured a collection of stories by African Americans that detailed their lives and struggles after the Civil War. His work coined the term the “New Negro Movement,” which became synonymous with the Harlem Renaissance.
In 1921, poet Langston Hughes arrived in Harlem and pioneered “jazz poetry”: an infusion of jazz beats into lyrical written works, seen in some of his poetry, including:
He would become one of the most defining poets of the movement.
Hughes joined other Harlem Renaissance writers like Wallace Thurman and Zora Neale Hurston to create the controversial and influential journal Fire!! in 1926. Zora Neale Hurston would eventually publish the classic “Their Eyes Were Watching God,” which was greatly influenced by her time in New York.
In 1935, a race riot forced the closure of the bustling Cotton Club. That event, in addition to the looming Great Depression, marked the end of the Harlem Renaissance. However, its influence on American culture was indelible.
African American life was brought to the forefront and acted as a challenge to the Jim Crow-era laws of the age, prompting a rising spirit, pride, and commitment to change and, eventually giving rise to the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. The literature and the arts born in the Harlem Renaissance inspired many other contemporaneous writers across the world, especially in France and the Caribbean, and served as a vessel to change the face of American culture.
“The best of humanity’s recorded history is a creative balance between horrors endured and victories achieved, and so it was during the Harlem Renaissance.”
–Aberjhani, historian, columnist, novelist, poet
If you’re interested to learn more about literary movements like the Harlem Renaissance, consider exploring our course “American Literature Since 1865” (ENGL 2328), part of our online BA in English program. As part of the General Requirements for the BA in English, students will also learn about the Jazz Age with our course “Jazz, Pop & Rock” (MUSI 1301).
A BA in English can help you develop the key skills needed to become a better writer and researcher—and hone your critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well. Our BA in English is affordable, convenient, flexible, and completely online, making it easy to study from anywhere in the world.
UT Permian Basin is home to some of the “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs” according to U.S. News & World Report. And as a future graduate with a BA in English, you can go on to pursue your professional or academic journey in fields such as:
Ready to delve into history’s defining movements through the eyes of influential writers while developing your own writing skills? Join our online BA in English program today!
Sources:
https://www.nyhistory.org/blogs/the-aristocrat-of-harlem-the-cotton-club
https://www.ipl.org/essay/Impact-On-The-Harlem-Renaissance-PKBEYCNNPC48R
https://www.britannica.com/event/Harlem-Renaissance-American-literature-and-art
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/collections/145704/an-introduction-to-the-harlem-renaissance
“I took the road less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” Even if you don’t know the entire poem, you may recognize the closing words from Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken.” They’re quoted at graduations, shared during moments of change, and used to describe the quiet courage of choosing your own path. So why have these simple words endured across generations? The power of…
Ever found yourself humming an earworm and suddenly wondering, “Where did this come from—and who created it?” Music is a universal language. It conveys memory, rebellion, grief, joy, and identity. Across centuries, women have used the language of sound in a world where they’ve been told, repeatedly, to stay invisible. Here are some of the…
Imagine being told you can’t do something—by law, by tradition, by those close to you—and doing it anyway. Even today, women face greater barriers to recognition and authority than men. Yet throughout history, countless women stepped beyond traditional domestic roles, often at great personal risk. This article highlights nine of the countless important women who…
Laws are designed to protect people, organizations, and their property by codifying the “do’s and don’ts” of society. While many laws clearly state their purpose—at least to attorneys, who speak legalese—some are nebulous, confusing, counterintuitive, or otherwise open to (mis)interpretation. These are the “buts” to those “do’s and don’ts,” and we’ll be discussing them below. Some are shocking, others merely amusing. While we do not condone exploiting legal loopholes and advise that everyone follow the laws of their state or jurisdiction, these do make for interesting discussion. We think you’ll agree …
In breathtaking Yellowstone National Park, a legal loophole related to the park’s boundaries ostensibly makes it impossible to convict someone for committing murder or other crimes. Most of Yellowstone—a national park subject to federal law—is in Wyoming, but an uninhabited 50-square-mile portion of it is in Idaho. It’s in this so-called “Zone of Death” that an unusual constitutional crisis exists: The Sixth Amendment states that, in criminal prosecutions, the accused has the right to be tried by “an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed…” The issue is complex and involves multiple states and the federal government, but some legal scholars argue that since no one resides in that 50-square-mile area, it would be impossible to seat a jury for a criminal case.
The national minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) of 21 was enacted in 1984, and today all 50 states abide by it. The MLDA includes a prohibition on the sale of alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. However, several states allow people under the age of 21 to drink either in the presence of or with the permission of their parents and in certain designated locations. Wisconsin is one such example. There, anyone under 21 can drink with their parents at a bar or restaurant, provided the manager of the establishment is willing to serve them.
Florida outlawed the sale and use of fireworks in the state in 1941. For decades following, you might be able to find some sparklers at a convenience store, but anything that exploded or lifted off the ground was strictly forbidden. Eventually, some Floridians with an entrepreneurial spirit and a knowledge of Florida’s fireworks law began to exploit a loophole that allows farmers to use fireworks to scare birds and other pesky creatures away from their crops. Fireworks buyers must sign a paper acknowledging this, but many sellers have long since dispensed with that formality. Today, it’s common to find huge fireworks warehouses and seasonal roadside fireworks sales in Florida. One postscript to this story: In 2022, Florida’s governor signed a law allowing Floridians to legally use fireworks on Independence Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day. The loophole remains on the books.
Though generally an individual’s head should be fully visible in a driver’s license photo, many states allow people to wear faith-mandated head coverings, provided their face is clearly visible. This sometimes raises questions about whether an individual’s head covering is a genuine expression of their faith or a satirical gesture, stunt, or an attempt to make a point about tolerance. It’s a tricky legal area, and on occasion—to avoid controversy, litigation, and unwanted attention—states will allow unconventional headgear to be worn in a driver’s license photo. An Ohio man wore a colander on his head for his driver’s license photo, and though the state later voided the license, he continued to pursue the matter through the courts.
While the criminal justice system doesn’t make laws, it does enforce them and administer appropriate penalties when they’re violated. Though some legal gray areas have an element of humor, they may also create challenges, particularly for law enforcement. For example, when responding to a complaint about fireworks, can a police officer be certain that an individual was using them within legal parameters? This may be the determining factor between issuing a citation or walking away. And the implications of the Zone of Death for the courts are frightening, though there is support for closing the loophole.
Having a firm educational foundation and credentials can help you more effectively navigate challenges you may face in the criminal justice field and foster positive change. They can even prepare you for a leadership post, which will better position you to develop responses to situations where the appropriate course of action is not always set in stone.
Whether you’re considering a criminal justice career or are ready to advance within your current career in the field, UT Permian Basin has an online degree program that can put you on the path to achieving your goals. Our programs are designed for those who want to promote change from within the criminal justice system while minimizing challenges for criminal justice professionals and fostering a more just society for all.
Online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies
Built on a groundwork of multi-disciplinary general education courses, this program examines multiple facets of the criminal justice system through a research-based curriculum and provides a strong starting point for a criminology or criminal justice career.
Online Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration
Already completed a criminal justice-related bachelor’s degree? Take the next step toward a leadership role by earning your master’s degree. Discover how to tackle today’s hot-button issues while protecting your department and those you serve. Our MS-CJAD has no GRE or thesis requirements.
Both programs are:
See what you can do with a criminal justice degree. Apply to your program of choice now.
More than 21 million dead, most of them civilians. The map of Europe redrawn. World War I—a conflict associated with the introduction of tanks, bombers, advanced artillery, chemical weapons, and trench warfare—left an indelible mark on civilization and the collective human psyche.
History might’ve played out very differently, however, had a driver not made a wrong turn while chauffeuring a dignitary through the streets of Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina in the summer of 1914.
Let’s look at the incident that reverberated worldwide and answer the question once and for all: How did World War I start?
The 1914 visit of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary, to Sarajevo remains one of the most consequential occurrences in modern history. Ferdinand was a member of the Hapsburg (Habsburg) family, a dynasty that dated back to the Holy Roman Empire.
His open-topped car journey through the capital of a country that his own country had annexed just a few years prior was ill-advised to say the least. A terrorist group of Serbian citizens—whom Ferdinand referred to as “scoundrels” and worse—attempted to assassinate Ferdinand by lobbing a grenade at his car. The explosive detonated, damaging another car, but all three occupants of Ferdinand’s car were unharmed.
This was not the end of the story, however. Following that assassination attempt, Ferdinand continued with his plans to visit a local government office. He then directed his motorcade to visit a hospital where people injured in the earlier blast were being treated.
Along the way, Ferdinand’s driver unintentionally turned onto the wrong street where an armed Serbian teenager, by coincidence, was walking. As the driver realized his mistake and tried to back out of the street, the teen shot Ferdinand and his wife Sophie at close range. Both died within several minutes. Ferdinand’s successor, his great-nephew Karl, was forced out of power a few years later, marking the end of the Hapsburg monarchy.
One wrong turn caused the world to take an immense turn for the worse. Ferdinand’s assassination is widely considered to be the catalyst for World War I, aka the “Great War,” with Austria-Hungary declaring war on Serbia soon after the incident. Existing regional conflicts, increasing nationalism, militarism, imperialist expansion, an arms race, and other factors also played a role.
Let’s briefly review how the Sarajevo incident catalyzed a conflict that would engulf other parts of the globe until a true world war was raging.
Just as the annexation of Bosnia-Herzegovina stoked the assassination of Ferdinand, European colonies in Africa—where world powers including the United Kingdom, France, and Belgium had claimed large portions of land during the prior decades—were drawn into the conflict as they chose to fight for independence from their colonizers rather than fight for them in the larger war.
Honoring a 1902 agreement with Great Britain, Japan fought on the side of the Allies in World War I, going after German ships in its own waters and attacking a German naval base in China. Russia entered the war as an ally of Serbia, and its disastrous involvement—led by Tsar Nicholas II—was an inciting factor for the Russian Revolution and the fall of the Romanov dynasty.
More than a century later, World War I remains a gripping subject. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Master of Arts in History program can help you unpack the Great War in a 16-week course devoted to the topic. HIST6348 World War I will enlighten you with detailed background and context for the war and its lasting effects. The 16-week online format of our courses facilitates an in-depth examination of important historical events from the United States and around the world. And there are many other program benefits:
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, consider expanding your knowledge and professional potential with a graduate degree. Our MA in history helps you develop critical thinking, communication, analytical, and other transferrable “soft” skills that, according to the U.S. Department of Labor and Forbes, today’s professionals must possess. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that master’s degree holders earn about 18% more than bachelor’s degree holders and are more likely to be employed. Our MA in history prepares you for doctoral-level studies, law school, advancement within your current career, or a transition into professional areas such as:
Gain a broader understanding of the past as you strengthen your future with our online MA in history program. Apply now!
Sources:
https://www.biography.com/political-figure/franz-ferdinand
https://www.history.com/news/the-assassination-of-archduke-franz-ferdinand
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/projects/cp/obituaries/archives/archduke-franz-ferdinand-world-war
The American continent before European contact was home to around 60 million people, with up to 18 million living in North America and divided into more than 500 diverse nations and tribes. The westward expansion of incoming European settlers who coveted the rich resources and fertile land in North America resulted in a purge of…
As store aisles fill with skeletons, ghouls, and endless bags of candy, children begin the great debate over whether to be witches or firefighters for Halloween. Meanwhile, adults across the country start adding gargantuan bags of candy to their normal grocery lists in preparation for trick-or-treaters. This raises the question: Has trick-or-treating always been a…
When people think of history class, they might picture dusty textbooks, memorized dates, or a recurring nightmare of a multiple-choice question about the date of the Great Molasses Flood. (1919, for what it’s worth.) But here’s what that reputation misses: History is one of the most practical subjects you can study. The skills it builds—critical…
Students and graduates across the nation held their collective breath as President Biden announced his long-awaited student debt relief plan on August 24, 2022. Borrowers making less than $125,000 per year will receive up to $20,000 in debt cancelation. About 20 million borrowers will have their debt wiped out, and how many still need student loan forgiveness for nurses through specialized programs?
An associate degree in nursing costs as much as $20,000, or $40,000 if you attend a private school. Graduates who go on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which is becoming the norm, can take on tens of thousands of dollars in additional student loan debt—if they choose the wrong program. That can be a heavy burden, even for RNs in high-paying roles.
Student loan forgiveness means you will no longer be required to repay some or all of your student loans. As an RN, you possess a highly sought-after skill set, and the government may be willing to forgive your student loans if you agree to their terms.
There’s sure to be a state or federal nursing student loan forgiveness program you qualify for; we’ve included some examples in the list below to help you begin your research.
What’s the Catch?
In exchange for nurse loan forgiveness, nurses typically—but not always—agree to serve a set number of years in a designated area, often an underserved area in need of healthcare professionals.
Nurses who don’t like to be tied down may chafe at the idea, but those who are willing to relocate or already work in an HPSA probably won’t mind making the commitment if it means debt relief for nurses who need it most.
There’s no one-size-fits-all nursing student loan forgiveness program—and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re working in public service, rural care, education, or a high-need specialty, there’s likely a nurse debt relief option that fits your career path.
Below, we break down several programs that can reduce or even eliminate your student loan burden.
The best option for most nurses, the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program is available to nurses who work full-time at a government or nonprofit organization and have made 120 monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan. Nurses who qualify can receive tax-free forgiveness on their remaining federal student loans.
Courtesy of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program covers up to 85% of unpaid nursing education debt for RNs, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), and nurse faculty.
To qualify, nursing professionals must agree to serve for two years in a critical shortage facility or as a nurse faculty member at an eligible nursing school. If you’re looking for loan forgiveness for nurses in direct care or education, this is a great place to start.
Nurses can receive up to $40,000 in repayment in exchange for two years of service to American Indians and Alaska Natives, who’ve long faced significant healthcare disparities. If you’re the adventurous type, you can pay off your student loan debt while practicing within an Indian health community in some of the most remote parts of the western U.S. and Alaska.
The University of Texas Permian Basin and the Permian Strategic Partnership are proud to offer a PSP Scholarship to undergraduate students majoring in healthcare-related fields, including nursing. This renewable four-year scholarship will cover tuition and fees while you pursue your degree in our online RN to BSN program.
Earn your BSN for free—no student loan needed! Visit our PSP Scholarships page for additional information and requirements.
The NHSC offers four nurse and nurse practitioner loan repayment programs for those serving communities in need, particularly those affected by the opioid epidemic. These programs are:
It’s never too early to tackle student loan debt. Suppose you’re in your last year of nursing school. In that case, you may qualify for the S2S Loan Repayment Program, which awards up to $120,000 to students who agree to work full-time for three years at an NHSC-approved site. While working to fulfill your service requirement, you can continue your education and access a nursing student loan forgiveness program before graduation day.
Nurses who pursue careers with the Veterans Health Administration can receive up to $40,000 in annual reimbursements, or $200,000 over a five-year period, thanks to this VA program. Funds are tax-free, and no mandatory service is required.
“I still have a very large amount of medical school debt to service,” said physician Dr. Stephen Gau. “The EDRP program helps to accelerate the pay off dramatically.” Visit the VA Careers website and search for “EDRP” to find reimbursement-eligible positions. Compare Student Loan Forgiveness Programs for Nurses
Not sure which program is right for you? We’ve compiled a quick comparison chart of some of the popular options so you can easily see how much debt relief is available, what service commitments are required, and who qualifies.
Whether you’re just starting out or already working in the field, one of these nurse loan forgiveness programs could help lighten your financial load.
Still have questions? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about student loan forgiveness for nurses.
Imagine the relief that comes from having the weight of student loan debt lifted from your shoulders in an instant. For nurses, the benefits are even more pronounced: Student loan repayment brings not only ease of mind but also the chance to take risks and pursue new career opportunities.
At UT Permian Basin, we offer an online RN to BSN program designed for nurses interested in pursuing leadership roles in healthcare. We know the prospect of taking out another student loan isn’t always appealing, which is why we’ve made our online program as affordable as possible. Tuition is competitively priced and the same for all students, whether they’re in or outside of Texas. Plus, scholarship opportunities and student loan forgiveness for nurses mean that students gain the training needed to pursue high-paying, high-level management roles without having to go into debt.
Apply to our online RN to BSN program to pursue an affordable degree and career opportunities you can’t afford to pass up.
Sources:
https://nursejournal.org/resources/how-much-does-nursing-school-cost
https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation
https://www.vacareers.va.gov/Home/PdfViewer?issuu=edrp_va_vha_flyer_final
Picture this: You’re in a hospital room, and a nurse walks in—flustered, but still smiling—with a chart in hand. This expert provider is checking your vitals, catching early warning signs, coordinating with doctors, reassuring your anxious family outside, and solving small healthcare crises in the hallway … all before lunch. Today, nurses are no longer…
Of the growing number of fields actively using artificial intelligence (AI) technology—including finance, manufacturing, marketing, and customer service—the field that arguably makes the most significant impact in our lives is healthcare. AI is supporting all healthcare sectors, simultaneously making nurses more efficient, elevating their level of care, and improving patient outcomes. Here we’ll examine some…
Every year, over 150,000 registered nurses (RNs) graduate from nursing school, ready and eager to make a difference in the lives of patients. They’ve spent up to four years preparing for this moment, poring over textbooks, completing clinicals, and mastering skills. But when it comes time to face the challenges on the hospital floor or…
People pursue a college education for a variety of reasons. They may be going straight into college following high school graduation or heading back to school after concentrating on personal or professional responsibilities. Some may yearn for the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with completing a college credential.
Greater career potential is one of the most common reasons people go to college. By building skills and credentials that will bolster their resume, graduates can start a new career or elevate their status in an existing one. Government data shows that degree holders also enjoy higher earnings and are more likely to be employed than those without a degree.
In 2023, U.S. News & World Report published a list outlining the 100 best jobs based on compensation, demand, work-life balance, and other criteria. Notably, many of the top careers align with The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online degree and certificate programs. These UTPB credentials can fulfill employment requirements, set the stage for a future career in the field, or improve one’s performance and potential within their current role.
Let’s look at a few top careers from the U.S. News & World Report 100 best jobs list, the corresponding online UTPB programs, and job growth projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), starting with number 22 from the list:
Data scientists use various tools to collect and analyze data before providing stakeholders with recommendations for business decisions and process changes.
Demand for data scientists is projected to expand by 36%—much faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
Market research analysts use various data collection methods to assess consumer trends, competitor marketing, and other factors to enable their organization to market its products and/or services more effectively.
These UT Permian Basin online programs will strengthen your skills in research and analytics, paving the way for or boosting your performance in a market research analyst career:
Demand for market research analysts is projected to expand by 19%—much faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
Lawyers provide legal advice to clients and represent them during legal proceedings such as lawsuits and trials.
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
This program helps you build a strong foundation for law school.
Bachelor of Arts in English
The curriculum for this program prepares you for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
Demand for lawyers is projected to expand by 10%—faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
Financial managers direct the financial affairs of an organization, producing financial reports, making investment decisions, and devising strategies to ensure the organization’s financial goals are met.
Our AACSB-accredited College of Business offers a variety of online undergraduate and graduate degree programs that can lead to a financial management career:
Demand for financial managers is projected to expand by 17%—much faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
Physician assistants (PAs) provide a wide range of care to patients, can perform many of the same functions as a doctor, including prescribing medications, and may assist in surgeries. PAs must earn a master’s degree or higher from an accredited medical school or a center of medicine before obtaining licensure.
Many physician assistants start their careers as registered nurses before earning the graduate degree and certification required to work as a physician assistant. This CCNE-accredited program can put you in line for nursing leadership roles and lay the groundwork for a physician assistant job.
Demand for physician assistants is projected to expand by 28%—much faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
Often called healthcare administrators or healthcare executives, these professionals plan, lead, and support healthcare services for a medical facility, one of its departments, or a stand-alone practice.
Demand for medical and health services managers is projected to expand by 28%—much faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
Nurse practitioners (NPs) also provide a broad range of services to patients and can perform many of the same functions as a doctor, in some cases including the authority to prescribe medications. NPs must have a minimum degree of Master of Science in Nursing from an accredited college to become licensed.
To become a nurse practitioner, you must first become a registered nurse. Earning your RN to BSN can subsequently position you for greater professional responsibilities and provide a stepping stone to a master’s degree that puts nurse practitioner opportunities within reach.
Demand for nurse practitioners is projected to expand by 40%—much faster than the average for all occupations—between 2021 and 2031.
No matter which UTPB online program you choose, you’ll enjoy these unequalled benefits:
Reach out to us if you’d like to discuss which online program most closely aligns with your professional goals! Our advisors are here to help steer you in the right direction.
Already know which program is right for you? Apply now!
Sources:
https://nursejournal.org/resources/np-vs-physician-assistant/
A Master of Science in Finance (MS in finance) opens the door to high-paying roles across industries like banking, corporate finance, investment management, and consulting. Whether you’re seeking career advancement or the tools to become an entrepreneur, this degree can help you reach your goals.
In this article, we’ll cover what you can do with an MS in finance, the jobs it prepares you for, and how The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online program makes earning your degree flexible and affordable.
In finance, there’s a direct line from an organization’s actions to its profitability. Equipped with an advanced finance credential, you can make a significant impact on your organization’s bottom line. An MS in finance empowers you to:
According to the 2022 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, salaries for Master of Finance degree holders are on the rise, with a 15%+ increase in median salaries from $95,000 in 2021 to $110,000 in 2022 alone. Further, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports master’s degree holders are more likely to be employed than individuals with a degree from the undergraduate level or lower.
What do Jeff Bezos, Martha Stewart, and former Nike CEO Phil Knight have in common? Apart from considerable fame and financial success, all of these entrepreneurs have a background in finance. In fact, most Fortune 500 company executives come from a finance background. An MS in finance can be your key to the C-suite.
An MS in finance prepares you to follow many finance-related career paths, from executive leadership to crucial supporting roles. Here are a few examples of those roles and their median annual pay as reported by the BLS:
Unlike some other business degrees, an MS in finance provides students with a specific financial management perspective. The curriculum will help you hone your analytical and executive decision-making skills and build your expertise in statistics, business analytics, investments, corporate finance and strategy, and international finance.
Elective courses in energy finance, investments, and risk management or financial services topics like real estate analysis or financial planning allow you to focus on your preferred industry emphasis.
With the right combination of skills, credentials, and ambition, you can become an entrepreneur. As part of our online program, you’ll choose the elective courses that best suit your interests and professional goals. By following your passion, mastering the fundamentals, and putting in the effort, you just may become a household name!
While employers receive many MBA resumes for finance positions, an MS in finance indicates a more targeted financial education and can make your resume stand out.
An MS in finance program typically requires fewer credits than an MBA in finance program.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a 100% online MS in finance that provides all these benefits —and so much more. Our program is:
See where you can steer your career with an MS in finance! We accept applications year-round, so there’s no need to wait until the end of the current or any semester. Apply now!
Sources:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/master-of-finance-job
Some of the best career growth strategies for BBA graduates are building experience intentionally, developing leadership habits early, and expanding your skills before you need them. That’s the blueprint. But here’s how it usually plays out. Most graduates start in roles like “marketing coordinator” or “financial analyst trainee.” That’s normal (and honestly, a good thing). Those early roles are where you…
Most MBA graduates don’t end up in the C-suite by accident. They got there because of decisions they made long before they reached it, starting with the first one. A Master of Business Administration looks great on a resume, but it also gives you something more lasting: a strong foundation that evolves with you, from your first post-graduate role all the…
When companies expand into foreign markets, they face a fundamental question: Should they keep everything the same, or adapt to fit local customs? The answer usually involves two strategies—globalization and localization—and most successful businesses use both. Imagine you’re traveling abroad and, in a horrible twist of fate, your iPhone breaks. You buy a new one at a nearby Apple…
The energy business is a dynamic and challenging field and, for many, the source of a satisfying career. If you’re already working in the field and want to get more involved in the business aspects of the energy industry and increase your potential for advancement, you need to have a few advantages. First is drive, which you must nurture and maintain within yourself. Second is the specialized knowledge and skills required of every energy business leader. And the third? Credentials. You must possess the academic qualifications that validate your expertise before any employer will consider you for a leadership role. With these noteworthy advantages, you’ll find a more diverse and lucrative set of energy jobs at your fingertips.
While it’s important for just about everyone to have some level of analytical skills, they’re especially important for a professional in a leadership role. Defined as the ability to “observe, research and interpret a subject in order to develop complex ideas and solutions,” analytical skills inform all the decisions you will make as a leader. Put simply, you must understand everything that’s going on and know how to proactively address any concern that may come your way while making your team and your larger organization more efficient and profitable.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers an energy-focused graduate program that helps you hone the crucial analytical skills every leader must have. Our online Master of Science in Energy Business program was created alongside energy industry professionals to serve the needs of ambitious, leadership-minded graduate students. There aren’t many other online university-level programs of this type available in the U.S.!
During this 30-credit program, you’ll focus on core business topics through an energy industry lens in courses including Energy Accounting, Global Energy Business, Energy Finance, Energy Investments, Energy Technology & Risk Management, and Energy Law. You’ll also gain a firm grounding in financial principles through a curriculum of finance-focused course and explore statistics and analytics.
UTPB’s MS in energy business program offers significant benefits that you’ll experience while completing your studies and long after you’ve finished them.
Our online MS in energy business is offered by our AACSB-accredited College of Business. This coveted accreditation is shared by only 5% of business programs worldwide and signifies that AACSB has put our business school through a rigorous peer-review process to verify that it meets “the highest standards of excellence in teaching, research, curriculum, and learner success.”
The tuition rates for the master’s degree in energy business and all our programs rank among the most affordable of those at any regionally accredited university of our stature.
Unlike some other programs, you can begin your degree any time of year. You never have to wait until the fall semester.
If you take the recommended course path, you can finish your degree in as little as four semesters.
Though you may finish your master’s degree quicker than you expected, your pace of completion is always your choice. Our program is delivered in a 100% online, asynchronous format that empowers you to complete your master’s degree on your own schedule from just about anywhere in the world. No campus visits are required.
Your resume will garner more attention from employers with a master’s degree on it. Master’s degree holders not only enjoy higher employment rates than those with a bachelor’s degree alone, they also enjoy about 18% higher median earnings, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This degree may help you secure a role on the business side of the energy industry. Some of these rewarding careers include:
There’s virtually no limit to what you can do with an MS in energy business. You have the drive—now get the skills and credentials you need to excel as an energy business leader. Apply today!
