Hospital bills that threaten to bankrupt families. Clinics struggling to keep their doors open. No matter which side of the exam table you’re on, healthcare costs are rising fast. Costs for everything from medical supplies to staff wages are on the rise—and it’s quickly adding up for hospitals and clinics around the country.
In 2023 alone, healthcare spending increased by 7.5% to $4.9 trillion: the largest uptick since 2003. The result? Healthcare facilities are facing mounting pressure to balance rising costs with delivering high-quality care to their patients.
That’s why effective healthcare administrators are crucial to the financial stability of healthcare facilities.
In this article, we explore six smart strategies you can use to tackle and lower some of the typical healthcare costs that have increased in recent years. (Where there’s a will, there’s a way—and a few extra dimes to rub together!)
If healthcare were a human body, healthcare management would be the heart that keeps the entire operation running smoothly. This vital function ties together several key components, including:
When one of these elements is undervalued or neglected, the entire system is strained, like a body showing signs of illness. Healthcare administrators must ensure each part is carefully maintained, and cost management is one of the most effective ways to keep things in balance. Good cost management reduces expenses and creates and smoother, more effective operations.
Not sure where to start? Here are six proven strategies to help you cut costs while maintaining quality care.
Facilities are teeming with resources. The more organized and informed a healthcare admin is—from medical supply inventory to staff capabilities and equipment status—the less likely they are to overspend on resources they don’t need.
Here are a few ways to make the most of what’s already available:
Whether you work in healthcare or you’ve been a patient yourself, you know one thing is true: Billing errors and insurance delays are all too common. But with the right systems in place, healthcare facilities can reduce these issues—and the headaches they cause. Here are a few ways to simplify the process:
When looking into ways for managing costs in healthcare, labor is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle. According to the American Hospital Association, labor accounted for 56% of hospitals’ total spending in 2024.
And while some facilities are cutting labor costs by reducing the number of employees (hello, nursing shortage), that can quickly lead to poor patient care due to burnout and understaffing.
Fortunately, there are ways to support your team while still keeping labor expenses under control:
In addition to the big-picture strategies above, here are a few simple yet effective ways healthcare facilities can keep costs in check:
Whether you want to drive change in your current healthcare facility or pivot into the healthcare field from another industry, UT Permian Basin offers two fully online bachelor’s degrees designed to help you take the next step in your career—on your schedule.
We offer two 100% online programs for those interested in roles like healthcare administrator, operations manager, clinic supervisor, and more:
Explore each program to see which one aligns best with your experience and goals. Still have questions? Contact us—and speak with a real person. Ready to apply? We offer year-round start dates, so you can jump in when the time is right for you.
Sources:
https://www.ncdsinc.com/revolutionizing-healthcare-how-automated-medical-billing-reduces-burden-and-boosts-efficiency
https://www.aha.org/costsofcaring
When we consider a healthcare professional’s role in the patient experience, we might be inclined to picture a patient-facing individual such as a nurse or a patient care technician. These professionals have an incalculably beneficial effect on patients’ health and well-being. But apart from having the proper skills and disposition required to do their jobs…
It’s not often a university degree program has a name that sounds like a math equation. But the 4+1 MBA offered online by The University of Texas Permian Basin adds up to something beyond any common higher education program: a five-year, dual-degree graduate path that all aspiring business professionals should consider. Our 4+1 MBA students…
The effects of COVID-19 continue to reverberate throughout the healthcare sector, even as infection rates across the United States have fallen since the height of the pandemic. Getting those numbers under control remains a high priority, alongside tackling major issues that in some cases grew out of the pandemic. Let’s look at three of the…
Even before COVID sent millions of professionals home to work in their pajamas or athleisure, some companies offered work-from-home or hybrid options. Today, remote work has become increasingly popular with professionals: 97% of remote employees report wanting to work that way the rest of their careers. And fewer companies are posting office-only jobs. Currently, about 22% of Americans work remotely.
Remote work brings unique opportunities — and challenges. Issues with communication, technology, payroll, accountability, time differences, and morale can occur. On the other hand, it widens the talent pool and can boost savings, competitiveness, productivity, and sustainability.
Remote work is here to stay. So how do you make it work best for your team or business? Let’s look at the challenges of remote work — and the benefits that make those challenges worthwhile.
Managing remote teams isn’t always easy. Here are six of the biggest hurdles companies face.
With record numbers of professionals transitioning to work-from-home positions, it’s clear that remote work isn’t all challenges. It offers real benefits that smart companies are using to their advantage. Here are five benefits of adding remote work as an option for your employees.
Still have questions about remote work? Here are answers to some common questions.
Tap into the benefits and overcome any drawbacks of remote work as a global business team leader. The University of Texas Permian Basin‘s AACSB-accredited online MBA with international business concentration equips you with the expertise!
Our program allows you to:
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2021/03/04/the-benefits-and-challenges-of-employee-remote-work
https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/25/us-workers-are-getting-remote-jobs-with-international-companies.html
https://hbr.org/2020/11/our-work-from-anywhere-future
https://money.usnews.com/careers/articles/big-companies-that-hire-remote-workers
https://thereistalent.com/percentage-of-u-s-businesses-using-remote-workers/
https://www.gallup.com/401384/indicator-hybrid-work.aspx
Hospital bills that threaten to bankrupt families. Clinics struggling to keep their doors open. No matter which side of the exam table you’re on, healthcare costs are rising fast. Costs for everything from medical supplies to staff wages are on the rise—and it’s quickly adding up for hospitals and clinics around the country. In 2023…
Even before COVID sent millions of professionals home to work in their pajamas or athleisure, some companies offered work-from-home or hybrid options. Today, remote work has become increasingly popular with professionals: 97% of remote employees report wanting to work that way the rest of their careers. And fewer companies are posting office-only jobs. Currently, about…
Not all heroes wear capes. Sure, doctors and surgeons wear scrubs—the unofficial capes of modern medicine—but what about the people working behind the scenes? The ones making sure our hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems runs smoothly every day? They might not always get the glory, but they’re far from undervalued, especially in today’s job market….
Not all heroes wear capes. Sure, doctors and surgeons wear scrubs—the unofficial capes of modern medicine—but what about the people working behind the scenes? The ones making sure our hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems runs smoothly every day?
They might not always get the glory, but they’re far from undervalued, especially in today’s job market. Healthcare management and administrator roles are on the rise, with a projected growth rate of 29% through 2033: nearly 25% faster than the average for all occupations.
So, which healthcare management position is right for you? Only you can decide, but information is power, and this guide will give you the insight you need to find a path that fits your strengths and goals.
A career in healthcare management offers strong job growth, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in hospitals and healthcare systems. But if you’re looking for the why behind the what, here’s a closer look at the benefits of choosing a path in this rapidly growing field:
Below, we explore four distinct career paths in healthcare management. For each path, you’ll find:
Let’s dive in.
Have you ever pictured yourself working in a bustling hospital, just an arm’s length away from the action? That’s the world of hospital administration, where you’ll play a vital role in keeping the entire facility running efficiently.
With your guidance, hospital staff will get the support and resources they need to deliver efficient, high-quality care while staying compliant with healthcare regulations.
Work Settings
Hospital administrators work in environments that require strong leadership and coordination across departments. You can typically find them in:
Key Skills
To succeed in hospital administration, you’ll need a mix of business acumen, leadership, and healthcare knowledge:
Careers in Hospital Administration
Graduates in management and healthcare management might pursue roles like:
Healthcare organizations don’t run on patient care alone. Behind the scenes, consultants play a critical role in optimizing operations, keeping costs within budget, and navigating complex regulations.
As a healthcare consultant, your goal is to improve the internal functions of healthcare organizations. That can include:
Work Settings
Healthcare consultants work in environments where strategic analysis and improvement are key, such as:
Key Skills
Success in healthcare consulting requires a mix of analytical thinking, communication skills, and healthcare industry knowledge:
Careers in Healthcare Consulting
Healthcare consulting offers a range of career opportunities for those passionate about improving systems and policies, including:
Not all roles in healthcare management involve overseeing entire facilities or advising large systems. Some career paths take a more technical or policy-driven approach, but they still make a significant impact.
Health informatics, for example, brings together technology, data, and healthcare to improve how facilities store, access, and use patient information. Professionals in this field often work in hospitals, tech companies, and government health agencies to ensure systems run smoothly and securely.
Key Skills
Health informatics roles require foundational skills in healthcare management, along with specialized technical expertise like:
Careers in Health Informatics
If you’re interested in using data and technology to improve healthcare delivery, here are a few roles to consider:
If you’re passionate about shaping the future of healthcare, consider policy analysis. You’ll evaluate systems, recommend improvements, and influence legislation in a critical role that puts the “health” in healthcare. Professionals in this field play a vital role in aligning healthcare practices with public needs, often working in government, nonprofit, or academic settings.
Key Skills
Success in healthcare policy analysis relies on strong communication, critical thinking, and a solid understanding of the healthcare landscape, along with:
Careers in Policy Analysis
If you’re drawn to advocacy, research, or systems-level change, consider roles such as:
Whether you’re drawn to shaping public policy or leading hospital operations as a health services manager, the right degree can help turn your career goals into reality. At UT Permian Basin, we offer two fully online programs designed to support your success, on your schedule:
Take the next step toward a career that makes a difference. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to level up, UTPB’s online programs give you the flexibility to learn while you work—and the foundation to lead in the healthcare industry.
Apply today or request more info to get started.
Sources:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm
You’re interested in a healthcare career, but you envision yourself in a management or leadership role rather than a hands-on position. While patient health remains your top priority, you know that leading a team or managing an office, department, or even an entire facility is just as vital to the overall healthcare mission. Many of…
The effects of COVID-19 continue to reverberate throughout the healthcare sector, even as infection rates across the United States have fallen since the height of the pandemic. Getting those numbers under control remains a high priority, alongside tackling major issues that in some cases grew out of the pandemic. Let’s look at three of the…
“The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born—that there is a genetic factor to leadership. That’s nonsense; in fact, the opposite is true. Leaders are made rather than born.” — Warren Bennis Do you dream of making a real impact in the healthcare field—not just treating patients, but shaping the systems that care…
Powerful turbines humming in unison across a field. Solar panels floating on the ocean, their synchronized mirrors following the sun’s path. The future of renewable energy is here, and it’s gaining momentum.
In fact, renewable energy sources now generate nearly 30% of the world’s electricity—a massive leap from just 20% in 2011. Solar energy is leading the way, and clean energy could cover 100% of our electricity needs by 2035.
Of course, that’s the goal—but how close are we really to making it happen?
In this article, we’re diving into the trends that are reshaping energy, the smart investments fueling the shift and the market forces driving a greener grid. Let’s plug into the future, starting with a look at current trends.
Right now, renewables are booming. Global energy from renewables is projected to climb to over 17,000 terawatt-hours by 2030 (up nearly 90% from 2023). Solar and wind the main drivers of this growth. By the end of the decade, solar alone is projected to overtake hydropower (which powers cities like Reykjavik, Iceland) as the world’s largest renewable energy source.
By 2030, wind and solar could supply more than 60% of global electricity. That’s a seismic shift in the energy landscape.
But to keep the lights on 24/7, we’ll need more than just solar and wind power. Here are some emerging renewable technologies that are helping to bridge the energy gap:
As more investments pour into renewables, opportunities to explore other natural sources of energy are opening up. So, with so much potential, what are investors doing to support the future of renewable energy?
Clean energy is attracting serious attention—and serious funding. In fact, the world is now investing almost twice as much in clean energy as in fossil fuels, and 2024 was a record-breaking year with $2.1 trillion in clean energy investments. Here’s where the money is going:
Despite these milestones, experts say that current levels of investment in clean energy still aren’t enough. To stay on track for net-zero emissions by 2050, we may need to double today’s investment by 2030.
The renewable energy industry needs professionals who understand both energy and economics: people who can help shape smart policy, attract funding, and move projects from concept to impact.
Clean energy is booming—but there’s no straight path to a greener grid. While the market profits from innovation, it’s also challenged by policy shifts, outdated infrastructure, and supply chain issues. Let’s unpack some of the key elements influencing how the market moves:
The bottom line: The renewable energy sector is mainstream, capital-intensive, and globally competitive. But determining whether the market will grow or stall depends less on technology and more on:
That’s why the industry needs experts who can navigate disruption, build flexible systems, and deliver scalable, reliable solutions that move as fast as climate demands.
Renewable energy is scaling fast—and it’s reshaping how the world powers up. Let’s recap some key points:
The energy transition is happening. The real question: Will you help lead it? Programs like The University of Texas Permian Basin’s energy business credentials can help you get started.
Curious where you fit into all this momentum? Whether you’re eyeing a future in clean tech, policy, or helping overhaul the grid, UTPB’s 100% online energy business programs are built for the new energy economy.
Choose from the following online programs:
Whether you want to expand your energy business knowledge, grow as a leader, or fast-track a new career, you’ll gain the strategy, finance, and market insights driving this global shift at UTPB.
Sources:
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/electric-power-and-natural-gas/our-insights/renewable-energy-development-in-a-net-zero-world-disrupted-supply-chains
https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/oil-and-gas/our-insights/global-energy-perspective-2023-transition-bottlenecks-and-unlocks
https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/news-publications/inside-supply-management-magazine/blog/2025/2025-01/the-climate-tug-of-war-between-the-u.s.-and-china
Powerful turbines humming in unison across a field. Solar panels floating on the ocean, their synchronized mirrors following the sun’s path. The future of renewable energy is here, and it’s gaining momentum. In fact, renewable energy sources now generate nearly 30% of the world’s electricity—a massive leap from just 20% in 2011. Solar energy is…
In the early morning hours of April 26, 1986, reactor number four at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exploded. As the reactor building was destroyed, over 100 radioactive elements were launched into the atmosphere. Today, Chernobyl remains frozen in time. A protective radiation shield entombs the nuclear reactor’s remains. The Ukrainian city of Pripyat lies…
An entire population’s energy needs met by readily available resources. Perhaps some supplemented by friendly, stable countries, if necessary. Probably every nation aspires to energy security, defined by the International Energy Agency as “uninterrupted access to energy [and] securing energy supplies at an affordable price.” Barriers to Energy Security Energy plays a central role in…
You’ve always been an analytical thinker. A problem solver. Maybe a math whiz, too.
There’s a career that matches your strengths. Certified Public Accountants—or CPAs—excel in these qualities.
Let’s explore why a CPA is no ordinary accountant and what it takes to become one.
General accountants handle many tax and financial duties. CPAs are qualified to do much more, including working with federal agencies and providing a greater range of services. But it takes additional time, education, and effort to become one.
How is a general accountant different from a CPA? First, accountants (and auditors) can provide services with just a bachelor’s degree. They often work for private companies, including accounting agencies, tax preparation services, finance and insurance companies, or government offices.
In these organizations and departments, you’ll find accountants:
A CPA is an accountant with higher qualifications and more responsibilities. They’re able to provide expanded services, including:
Before starting their own firms, many CPAs work at public accounting firms.
The more advanced your career, the more education and credentials you need. If you’re aiming to become a CPA, here’s what it takes:
Salary prospects for CPAs are bright: an average of about $91,000 per year. CPAs working through AICPA can earn even higher average annual salaries: about $99,000.
Want to know what CPAs in your area are making? Find out fast with this salary tool.
CPAs are also likely to enjoy more job opportunities. They can work internationally, in a wider range of fields, and in upper-level roles. Those extra qualifications count!
This information can help you get started on your CPA journey:
Ready to prepare for a career as a CPA? We’ve developed AACSB-accredited programs to help get you there.
Our online Master of Professional Accountancy program’s specialized curriculum:
Still on the fence about becoming a CPA?
Our online MBA in Accounting offers a helpful CPA track and broad, highly marketable business skills.
Just getting started?
Our online BBA in Accounting provides the foundation you need to succeed in related roles.
Get more information and apply here.
You’ve always been an analytical thinker. A problem solver. Maybe a math whiz, too. There’s a career that matches your strengths. Certified Public Accountants—or CPAs—excel in these qualities. Let’s explore why a CPA is no ordinary accountant and what it takes to become one. Want to Be a CPA? Here’s What You Need to Know …
It’s tax season. Your spreadsheets are a mess, your coffee’s cold, and it’s month-end close—again. Enter blockchain technology: a secure system that delivers real-time updates, lets you safely share data … and makes your job much easier in the process. Not exactly sure what blockchain is? Don’t worry! You’re in the right place. Let’s break…
So, you want to work in accounting? With steady job growth fueled by globalization and expanding economies, accounting remains a stable and highly sought-after career path. While demand for this occupation remains high, it also requires a very specific skill set. But how do you know if an accounting degree is worth your precious time…
“I will tell you how to become rich. Close the doors. Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.” –Warren Buffett, American investor and billionaire
Think about the last investment you made. Then think about why you made it. Did it make sense?
Our investment choices often don’t come from a reasonable, rational place but rather somewhere more subconscious. Behavioral economics, a field at the intersection of economics and psychology, seeks to understand, explain, and in some cases exploit this rationale. Behavioral economists may make a career of guiding consumers and investors—or even use their understanding of buying and investing behavior to help companies increase their profits.
Disregarding reason and logic when making financial decisions is often as foolhardy as it sounds, but it’s an interesting topic for discussion. Let’s take a closer look at behavioral economics now and review some finance degrees than can reinforce your investment expertise from a professional perspective.
Here are some of the ways psychology is connected to the decisions we make about where we put our money:
A strong stock market can cause investors to see dollar signs and buy and sell accordingly, and overconfidence in a healthy market can lead them to take too many risks. (Contrast this with Becoming Too Self-Assured and Panicking below.)
Some investors may have an inflated sense of their own expertise in choosing lucrative stocks or other types of investments, often due to a single successful experience with investing.
When the economy is in poor shape, some investors may impulsively unload their stocks or other investments.
Out of concern that they might miss an opportunity for an investment to grow in value, an investor may keep an investment of low value for longer than is prudent, ironically missing the opportunity to mitigate their losses.
When an investment is popular, those other people who got in on it must be onto something, right? This kind of mentality was behind the real estate bubble of the early 2000s, among other financial crises. But FOMO—the fear of missing out—can be a powerful motivator.
An investor might use their original stock purchase price as an arbitrary point of reference for when to buy or sell.
An investor may make decisions based on criteria they’re not even consciously aware of, such as finding the company’s logo appealing.
No matter what aspect of investment decision-making interests you, you’ll have the opportunity to thoroughly explore it in one of The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online finance degree programs. Whether you’re looking to advance within your current finance career or are eager to get one started, these AACSB-accredited degrees—taught by highly experienced business professionals and educators—will propel you in the right direction:
Online Master of Business Administration in Finance
An MBA commands tremendous respect in the business world. Our program covers the spectrum of core business disciplines with an emphasis on financial management. You’ll enjoy the flexibility of finishing with 33-42 credits and can graduate in as little as four semesters.
Recommended program courses on this topic include:
Online Master of Science in Finance
Sharply focused on financial management, our 30-credit MS in finance has the distinction of being among a very limited number of STEM-certified programs of its kind in Texas. You can complete this degree in as little as four semesters.
Recommended program courses on this topic include:
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
An excellent foundation for a finance career and many other careers, this program begins with a diverse range of essential general education courses before transitioning into a finance-oriented curriculum that can prepare you for Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designations.
Recommended program courses on this topic include:
Finance professionals with the right credentials and plenty of determination can work in a variety of rewarding roles. Just look at some of the jobs listed below and their corresponding median annual salaries, courtesy of Lightcast:
Set yourself up for financial career success with a finance degree from UT Permian Basin! Apply now.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/behavioral-economics
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/06/opinion/sunday/behavioral-economics.html
https://www.britannica.com/topic/behavioral-economics
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/behavioraleconomics.asp
“I will tell you how to become rich. Close the doors. Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful.” –Warren Buffett, American investor and billionaire Think about the last investment you made. Then think about why you made it. Did it make sense? Our investment choices often don’t come from a…
In today’s complex financial world, understanding the basics of financial literacy is crucial for personal and professional success. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their money and prepares them for future opportunities, such as advancing their careers through programs like those offered by The University of Texas Permian Basin. This article provides a…
A finance degree offers its holder many rewarding, potentially lucrative professional paths. Whatever your career aspirations are in pursuing a finance credential, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers online program options that can empower you to fulfill them. Our graduates are applying their expertise at some of the world’s top financial institutions, energy companies,…
It’s tax season. Your spreadsheets are a mess, your coffee’s cold, and it’s month-end close—again. Enter blockchain technology: a secure system that delivers real-time updates, lets you safely share data … and makes your job much easier in the process.
Not exactly sure what blockchain is? Don’t worry! You’re in the right place. Let’s break down blockchains and explore how they’ll reshape the accounting industry from the ground up.
A blockchain is a digital ledger that records transactions across a secure network. Once added, data can’t be changed. Think of it like a shared Google Doc that everyone can see and no one can secretly edit, where every change is tracked forever.
Blockchain is a rapidly growing technology. Its market size was estimated at $31.28 billion in 2024 and is expected to have a compound annual growth rate of 90.1% by 2030. While it’s already taking over the supply chain and auditing firms like Deloitte, blockchain growth is also being driven by an increasing interest in digital assets and cryptocurrencies.
So, what does this mean if you work in accounting? Let’s dive in.
Blockchain accounting uses blockchain technology to record and manage financial transactions. Unlike traditional accounting, which relies on separate ledgers maintained by each party, blockchain accounting registers transactions on a shared, decentralized ledger. Each transaction is time-stamped, encrypted, and permanently stored, making the records transparent, tamper-proof, and easily verifiable.
For accountants, keeping “clean books” is an artform, and a highly fragile one if their work goes unchecked. Don’t believe us? Ask Lehman Brothers.
In 2008, this major investment banking firm hid over $50 billion in loans disguised as sales: a fraud that led to its bankruptcy. It’s one of many cases where a firm’s accounting practices contributed to a firm’s collapse due to corruption.
Blockchain accounting provides a possible solution to these issues, reshaping how businesses manage, verify and report financial data—with wide-ranging impacts.
Let’s look at these in more detail:
Blockchains make every transaction immutable and visible only to authorized parties, since any attempt to alter records is tracked. This level of transparency simplifies the system: Each blockchain’s shared ledger provides a single source of truth for transactions, reducing fraud and improving data integrity and stakeholder confidence.
Every accountant goes by a set of standards, like U.S. GAAP and IFRS, which set the rules for what’s earned, owned, and owed. Blockchain simplifies this regulation by time-stamping every transaction and making it unchangeable, kind of like a digital breadcrumb trail that can’t be “accidentally deleted.”
Imagine getting live financial updates without laboring over paperwork or sorting spreadsheets. By using blockchain accounting, company managers can skip waiting around for reports and see real-time updates on:
Blockchain accounting leaves accountants with the freedom to focus on strategic planning instead of data entry.
Auditing is lengthy, detail-oriented work. It requires verifying financial records, which is a process that blockchains streamline. Since transactions are recorded instantly and can’t be altered, auditors can review entire datasets faster, with less risk of error or fraud.
Beyond its productivity benefits, blockchain can also help forensic accountants sniff out crime. Every transaction is traceable, and permanent records cannot be deleted or hidden, so any fraud attempts are preserved and easily visible. Since all data is stored in one system, forensic accountants can analyze blockchain transactions much faster, and they can easily trace funds even across crypto networks.
While blockchain doesn’t always reveal who did something (because of anonymous addresses), it does make hiding what happened much harder.
Tomorrow’s accountants won’t be languishing in spreadsheets or stuck crunching numbers. They’ll be learning Python, using AI, brushing up on cybersecurity—and yes, becoming fluent in blockchain. Successful accountants won’t just adapt; they’ll lead.
What used to take accountants hours of checking and double-checking, blockchain now does in seconds—with total transparency. Let’s do a quick recap:
Blockchain isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the next step in accounting—and it’s happening now. For modern accountants, the job is no longer simply long hours spent crunching numbers. In an industry shaped by blockchain, automation, and data that updates quickly, today’s accountants are strategists.
Whether you’re new or a veteran of the field, our fully online accounting programs are built to keep you ahead of the curve (and your deadlines):
Every course is 100% online and taught by expert faculty, so you can build the skills you need to lead in a profession that’s changing fast. No need to relocate, reorganize your life or press pause on your goals. Just log in and learn on your terms. Explore our programs in accounting today.
Sources:
https://www.invensis.net/blog/impact-of-blockchain-on-accounting
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4642347
https://www.journalofaccountancy.com
https://ifap.org.pk
You’ve always been an analytical thinker. A problem solver. Maybe a math whiz, too. There’s a career that matches your strengths. Certified Public Accountants—or CPAs—excel in these qualities. Let’s explore why a CPA is no ordinary accountant and what it takes to become one. Want to Be a CPA? Here’s What You Need to Know …
It’s tax season. Your spreadsheets are a mess, your coffee’s cold, and it’s month-end close—again. Enter blockchain technology: a secure system that delivers real-time updates, lets you safely share data … and makes your job much easier in the process. Not exactly sure what blockchain is? Don’t worry! You’re in the right place. Let’s break…
So, you want to work in accounting? With steady job growth fueled by globalization and expanding economies, accounting remains a stable and highly sought-after career path. While demand for this occupation remains high, it also requires a very specific skill set. But how do you know if an accounting degree is worth your precious time…
“It’s a beautiful summer day …” your star employee says as they stare longingly out the window. And chances are, they’re not the only one.
Summer tests even the strongest teams. As the dog days hit, bloggers and journalists love citing a 2012 survey claiming that productivity drops a massive 20% during the summer. But there’s no reason that has to apply to your team. Sure, your team members might wish they were sipping mai tais on the beach, but with the right approach, their productivity won’t take a hit.
No matter what kind of manager you are—in sales, marketing, finance, human resources, or IT—it’s a wise move to improve morale during the summer. Here’s how.
We’ve mentioned SMART goals before, but for those in the back, this goal-setting strategy is an excellent way to keep teams on point when summer distractions hit. SMART goals are:
When team members work remotely, take some much-deserved paid time off, or mentally check out, clear goals will keep everyone aligned and accountable. Speaking of PTO …
When PTO requests start flooding your inbox, don’t panic. Teams need a break sometimes, and sometimes just because. They’ll come back happier, healthier, and maybe with a few good travel stories.
The worst thing you can do? Guilt-trip your team for taking PTO. That’s how you crush team morale. So always encourage time off, and don’t forget to take some yourself. If you never take a break, you’re sending the wrong message to your team.
It’s easy to feel disconnected, especially if your team is remote. By building a strong company culture, you can increase communication and collaboration, whether your team’s scattered across the country or the office.
Here are some simple ways to strengthen your team:
It’s summer! Give your team something to look forward to besides slamming their laptop shut at 5.
Scared to loosen the reins and let your team have flexible hours or (gasp!) work remotely? Don’t be. Turns out, giving your team the choice of where to work can boost employee:
The truth: Your team members will produce the same high-quality work no matter where they work. Why not lean into recent shifts in workplace culture? Let them work from home. Let them have flexible schedules. Cut them loose early on Fridays. Trust your team to deliver and they will.
The birds are singing, and the flowers are blooming. Why trap your team indoors? Hold meetings outside: Your office’s courtyard or patio will do. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery and some fresh air to boost team morale.
Here are some other outdoor options your team might enjoy:
Assuming you’re the stellar leader we think you are, your team looks up to you. They may even model their behaviors after you. Set an example by having a positive attitude and strong work ethic during the summer. If your team sees you putting in the work, they’re going to follow suit, no matter the season.
Chances are you want to be a better manager—you’re reading this post, after all. Becoming an effective manager (the kind of boss you would have wanted while climbing the corporate ladder) takes more than a positive attitude. It takes a variety of soft and hard skills, from emotional intelligence to performance analysis, plus the education to prove to employers you have what it takes to lead.
At UT Permian Basin, we offer an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Management that provides everything you need to manage your team—and career. Learn essential leadership skills that will stick with you, whether you stay in your position, seek a promotion, or pursue new opportunities in other fields.
Courses are 100% online, so you don’t have to put your career on hold. Plus, you can complete coursework wherever you want, whether that’s at home or somewhere you don’t have to stare out the window to enjoy the summer weather.
Interested? Check out our online BBA in management. When you’re ready to take the next step, apply to UT Permian Basin. (And yes, classes are offered in the summer.)
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2023/06/05/beat-the-summer-slump-20-ideas-to-motivate-and-engage-your-team/
https://www.thehrteam.com/blog/keep-your-team-motivated-in-the-workplace-this-summer-with-these-smart-strategies/
Meetings. Emails. Last-minute requests. Some days, it feels impossible to knock anything off the to-do list. If this sounds like you, you might be in need of some time management tips and tricks.
Time management is a skill like any other, and it can be honed with practice and patience. We’re here to show you how.
These time management tips are designed for business professionals, team leads, and anyone tired of playing catch-up. If you’re leading a team, managing projects, or juggling both, these strategies can help you maximize your valuable time and get more done.
SMART goals are:
If a goal doesn’t meet these criteria, it’s likely not worth your time. SMART goals help keep projects moving, keep professionals accountable, and ensure that you get the results you want. No more getting sidetracked by distractions that don’t move the needle.
To-do lists aren’t revolutionary, but they work. Prioritizing your tasks is an easy way to ensure that nothing slips through the cracks. Plus, it’ll help you meet those SMART goals.
Want to make the most of a 40-hour work week? You’ll need to get serious about time management. Approach your calendar like a math problem:
It takes six hours to complete this major project, but I’ll only have four hours free on Monday, so I’ll be done with it Tuesday at the earliest.
Map out your week with precision. That way, you’ll avoid overbooking, under-delivering, and burnout.
Block time on your calendar for high-priority tasks, and don’t let anyone steal it — not even you. There will always be small fires to put out, but unless you set a dedicated time to focus on your most pressing tasks, you’re never going to clear your to-do list.
Low-priority requests and unnecessary invites (e.g., this meeting could have been an email) are commonplace in business. Don’t be afraid to hit ‘em with a polite but firm “No, thank you!” Saying no can feel uncomfortable, especially if you like to go above and beyond in the workplace. But you’re going to have to (respectfully) push back on occasion to protect your time.
Delegating isn’t a sign of weakness or laziness; it’s leadership in action. By trusting their work, leaders empower their team to take ownership of projects, building morale and ensuring that goals are met even if they aren’t overseeing every step of the process.
Meetings can drive progress, fuel creativity, and foster collaboration … or they can be a complete waste of time. So, make the most of yours. Here’s some suggestions:
AI productivity tools and apps aren’t going anywhere, so you might as well benefit from them. Otter AI will record your meetings and provide automated meeting notes and summaries. Trello will organize your tasks into lists. ChatGPT, Copilot, Perplexity, and other AI-powered chat interfaces can handle simpler day-to-day tasks. Research the tools that might fit into your workflow and save you time to focus on what matters.
Your brain isn’t designed to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. In reality, “multitasking” individuals are either switching between tasks or abandoning one in favor of the other. Tackle one thing at a time and finish what you start. In the immortal words of “Parks and Recreation” character Ron Swanson: Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing.
Small, consistent changes can yield incredible results, like a snowball that grows into a roaring avalanche. Tidy up your desk. Cut back on social media. Start using sticky notes. Set a timer for tasks. (We’re fans of the Pomodoro technique.) Change doesn’t happen all at once; it takes time. So be patient and trust the process. You’ll get there.
Maybe it’s not your habits holding you back; it’s your work environment. If that’s the case, you’re going to need more than some time-management tips and a well-organized calendar to get ahead. You’ll need some resume-worthy management skills and a targeted degree to prove your talents and propel your career forward.
At The University of Texas Permian Basin, we offer two online programs that will provide you with the skills and credentials you need to get more out of your career:
Our programs are entirely online and designed to fit around your schedule. Check out our online business degrees and certificates to see if there’s an option that might work for you.
If you do find a good fit, apply to UT Permian Basin. We promise: There’s no better use of your time than investing in yourself.
Sources:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/time-management-skills
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/time-management-tips-for-professionals
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jodiecook/2024/09/18/time-management-hacks-from-the-worlds-most-successful-leaders
https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/07/13/18-time-hacks-for-busy-leaders-to-reclaim-three-to-five-hours-
week
Honoring and celebrating our mothers has been a global tradition throughout history. Although Mother’s Day was officially declared a U.S. holiday in 1914, its origins date back centuries. People have honored their mothers across cultures and time periods through festivals, religious observances, and communal gatherings.
Understanding the historical significance of holidays like Mother’s Day provides insights into how our traditions influence our consumer behavior and modern marketing strategies. Let’s journey back in time to explore how the origins of Mother’s Day led to its transformation into a major economic event.
Thousands of years ago, when the weather warmed for spring, the Ancient Greeks gathered for the festival of Rhea, the Mother of Gods, who was associated with fertility and motherhood. In nearby Ancient Rome, the festival to Cybele, the Great Mother, was celebrated as early as 250 B.C. By that time, Egyptians had long held annual celebrations in springtime to Isis—the protector, healer, and mother of gods—for thousands of years.
This tradition continues today, with Egypt and several other nations celebrating Mother’s Day in March, marking the renewal of life. As societies moved away from deity worship and towards personal and family-centered traditions, however, the celebration of motherhood became more intimate.
The 17th century was a busy time for English villagers, many of whom were servants who worked at manors. Every year on the fourth Sunday of Lent, workers were encouraged to go home to spend the day with their mothers in a celebration they named “Mothering Sunday.” Families would make mothering cakes (or carlings)—pancakes made with peas fried in butter—to honor their beloved matriarchs. As Christianity spread across Europe, the tradition evolved into an annual pilgrimage where people returned to the church they were baptized in and spent the day with their mothers.
Moving ahead to the 19th century: In 1858, social activist Ann Reeves Jarvis started organizing Mother’s Day work clubs to help mothers care for their children during the hardships of the Civil War. In 1872, abolitionist Julia Ward Howe organized Mother’s Day meetings in Boston, Massachusetts, but the holiday didn’t catch on until Anna Jarvis, the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis, campaigned to make it a holiday in 1905 upon her mother’s passing. Jarvis stressed the importance of a holiday that recognized the contributions of mothers, choosing white carnations as its emblem and encouraging people to write letters of gratitude to their mothers.
By 1911, Mother’s Day was celebrated in nearly every state, and President Woodrow Wilson declared it a national holiday in 1914. As he put it, Mother’s Day is a “public expression of our love and reverence for all mothers.” The rest, as they say, is history.
Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated in over 100 countries, with different cultures adopting their own versions of the holiday. It’s easy to spot the predominant pink and red color scheme in most modern Mother’s Day marketing campaigns, while white carnations now honor mothers who have passed on.
In the U.S., Mother’s Day is the third-largest card-sending and flower-sending holiday. Interestingly, despite her efforts to establish the holiday, Anna Jarvis despised its commercialization—particularly the rise of greeting cards! Ironically, the very success of Mother’s Day as a holiday was fueled by the consumer behavior she wished to avoid.
Today, Mother’s Day is a global economic driver, having generated $33.5 billion in sales in 2023 and continuing to influence industries from retail and hospitality to digital advertising.
Digital marketing has transformed how we celebrate Mother’s Day. AI-powered gift guides, targeted ads, and personalized email campaigns help brands like Amazon and Etsy suggest gifts for every type of mother. Social media also plays a role: Companies like Pandora Jewelry and Hallmark run interactive campaigns, encouraging users to share heartfelt tributes with custom hashtags.
From a consumer psychology perspective, Mother’s Day highlights how emotions—our love for our mothers—influence purchasing decisions. Brands leverage this sentiment through nostalgic storytelling, with campaigns that highlight the bond between mothers and their children. Similarly, brands use limited-time promotions like exclusive discounts and holiday deals to boost spending.
Cultural traditions have long influenced consumer behavior and market trends. Understanding the historical roots of important holidays like Mother’s Day provides us with insights into emotional storytelling, seasonal purchasing patterns, and the psychology behind consumer engagement. These are essential skills for modern marketing professionals.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers three entirely online and affordable marketing programs to suit your goals:
Whether you’re a business professional ready to grow your marketing expertise, brand new to the field of marketing, or you simply want to brush up your skills, UT Permian Basin’s online programs will equip you with the knowledge to create impactful, culturally relevant marketing campaigns that drive results.
Shape your future with a marketing credential from UTPB today. We look forward to seeing you in the virtual classroom!
