Want a flexible way to earn your degree from The University of Texas Permian Basin? With UTPB’s online programs, you can live and work anywhere while getting a top-quality education.
When you study online with UTPB, you become part of the Falcon Family. We think it’s important to celebrate your achievements alongside them, too. Once you complete your online program, you can join your classmates at your graduation ceremony: an experience you don’t want to miss.
UTPB online students are transforming their lives, building their futures, and crossing the graduation stage with confidence, proving that you don’t have to choose between your dreams and your daily responsibilities.
UTPB welcomes students from around the world. We have learners from more than 45 countries, with many living outside Texas. No matter where you live, you can benefit from the convenience of online learning. For many, earning a top-quality, affordable UTPB education remotely is the only way to make college work.
Online learning turns every home office, break room, café, and park bench into a classroom or study hall. Pick the spot that helps you focus best.
Online learning has a flexible schedule: your schedule. Your online classroom is open 24/7 to accommodate your professional and personal commitments.
Do you work days? View course lectures at night. Work nights? Finish coursework in the daytime or on weekends. As long as you meet deadlines, you control your schedule and pace.
Andrea Wang knows the benefits of online learning firsthand. She completed her online MBA from her Southern California home in 2023. When it came time to graduate, Wang—who’d grown up in Texas—wanted to walk across the stage in person.
Why?
“I’d never been to the campus,” Wang recalled. “Everything I learned about UTPB was from interacting with other students and faculty. And I thought, ‘Well, I’m going to get a degree from UTPB, so I should at least see it on graduation.’”
Wang was very eager to meet one of her professors. Although that almost didn’t happen, all turned out well in the end. “[My professor] went to California but came back in time for graduation. And so I got to see her on graduation day.”
“I think for me it was probably more fun than all my other graduations because it was something I chose to do in terms of earning the degree. This was completely my choice.”
Wang believes that attending graduation in person can be a truly meaningful experience, even for online members of the Falcon Family.
“I think it’s worthwhile. It gives you a feel for what the university stands for. As I walked around the hallways, I could see professors’ names … what their interests were. It made me think about degrees that I didn’t know were there. It made me think, ‘Would I want to do another degree at UTPB or with another UT branch?’”
Wang also got a chance to show her school spirit by picking up some Falcons gear at our bookstore: t-shirts, sweatshirts, and a beanie. And she wasn’t finished: “We walked into the campus welcome center and got free T-shirts there!”
We understand that it’s not possible for every online student to attend graduation. But if you can make it to the Odessa, Texas area, we’d love to see you at the ceremony. That way you can:
With 45+ online UTPB degrees—some you can finish in about a year—graduation may be closer than you think. Get started now!
Want a flexible way to earn your degree from The University of Texas Permian Basin? With UTPB’s online programs, you can live and work anywhere while getting a top-quality education. When you study online with UTPB, you become part of the Falcon Family. We think it’s important to celebrate your achievements alongside them, too. Once…
Planning your next career move? Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or aiming for a more advanced role, having the right tools can make all the difference. Megan Baeza, UTPB’s executive director of career services, shares her expert advice on what your career toolkit should look like. Must-Have Career Tools for Every…
As head of state and commander-in chief of the armed forces, the president of the United States is responsible for representing the best interests of every single American. With the power to authorize military actions, sign or veto laws, and even launch nuclear strikes, the president wields immense authority. It’s no stretch to say this…
Planning your next career move? Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or aiming for a more advanced role, having the right tools can make all the difference. Megan Baeza, UTPB’s executive director of career services, shares her expert advice on what your career toolkit should look like.
Your career toolkit should include both cutting-edge technology and practical skills. Here are the essentials every career-minded student needs.
Handshake
“The first thing to do is activate a Handshake account,” Baeza advised. “It’s like Indeed.com for college students.” According to Baeza, students logging on today would see “over 25,000 jobs and internships available. Many here in Texas, all over the United States, and some are even global.”
A job search platform tailored for college students, Handshake connects users with job and internship opportunities. Fortune 500 companies actively recruit on this platform, making it a must-have for students looking to stand out.
SkillsFirst
This AI-powered tool helps you tailor your resume to specific job descriptions. By highlighting the most relevant skills and keywords, you can ensure your application aligns with what employers are looking for, increasing your chances of getting noticed.
Baeza estimates 99.9% of applications are now completed online, making it crucial to optimize your resume and cover letters for today’s technology. SkillsFirst’s resume builder identifies areas for improvement, helping you customize your application for each role.
“Customization is key,” Baeza explained. “If you don’t have the keywords, the customization, the correct format in your resume, those can all be problematic, [even if you] have the skills or qualifications.”
Strong interviewing skills require training, technology and people. Mastering the tried-and-true STAR method and “elevator pitch” are still helpful but are no longer enough.
“We want our candidates to start strong,” Baeza explained. “We want them to have thought about important questions that they want to ask the employer. Both of you are interviewing, right? It’s a two-way street.”
Tools like SkillsFirst allow you to practice responses, analyze body language, and refine your delivery.
“This is something you can do in privacy … then [the career services team] can help you refine those minor things that you still maybe need to work on through one-on-one coaching.”
Networking is one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities. Building a network takes time, but there are many ways to do it. Start by connecting with:
Baeza urged students not to overlook contacts right in front of them: “You start in class, right? Who is your professor? Who are the other people in class with you? If you’re already working, who at your company can you connect with?”
She also strongly suggests those with a clear career path in mind connect with people already working in those fields. “Who are the leaders in your industry? You need to be following those companies [on social media] and connect with people within those organizations. Also, alumni working in that industry. They have advice you need. Don’t be fearful of reaching out.”
Your appearance matters during interviews. Or as Baeza put it, “When you look good, you feel good.” Dress professionally and ensure your virtual interview setup is distraction-free: no crying babies or barking dogs!
Baeza added that students near UTPB’s campus can borrow professional attire at no cost and have headshots taken right in the Career Services office.
Keep track of every application, including where you applied, whom you spoke with, and when. Follow-up promptly, especially with one gesture that can leave a big impression:
“A lot of students forget that follow-up is key. You know, sending that thank-you note honoring someone’s time,” Baeza explained.
Baeza and her Career Services team provide ongoing support for UTPB students and alumni, offering access to Handshake, SkillsFirst, one-on-one coaching, and more—virtually and in person.
Take advantage of these resources today to set yourself apart in the competitive job market and let UTPB Career Services help you land the job you want.
Want to know more about UTPB’s online degrees and certificates? Discover over 50 programs designed to help you achieve your career goals!
As head of state and commander-in chief of the armed forces, the president of the United States is responsible for representing the best interests of every single American. With the power to authorize military actions, sign or veto laws, and even launch nuclear strikes, the president wields immense authority. It’s no stretch to say this position ranks among the most powerful on the planet.
Thinking about applying? Good news: the Executive Branch hires every four years.
Follow these 10 steps for a shot at becoming the next U.S. president. A word of caution: You’ll have a heavy workload, long hours, and no privacy. But there’s no other job like it in the free world.
The U.S. Constitution states that the president must be a natural born citizen of the United States. This is the one and only reason why Austrian-born actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger can’t run for president.
Your next step is to wait about 35 years. The Founding Fathers settled on this age requirement at the 1787 Constitutional Convention, believing it would ensure a leader of sound judgment, maturity, and wisdom.
The president is the only federal officer required to have lived in the United States for any amount of time. According to the Founding Fathers, 14 years is enough time for people to understand a presidential candidate and for that candidate, in turn, to appreciate the country’s values.
You have decades to make a name for yourself in politics — plenty of time. Most candidates have advanced degrees, often in law or business. You can’t go wrong pursuing a degree in history, sociology, or political science.
There are over 53 “third parties” in the U.S., but the country operates on a two-party system. If you want any shot at becoming president, you’ll likely have to register as a Democrat or Republican. Given today’s political polarization, choosing a party that aligns with your interests should be pretty straightforward.
By now, you’ve earned degrees and accolades and are ready to pursue a career in politics. Though it’s not a requirement, running for and winning a race for mayor, governor, or senator in your state will bring you much-needed experience and exposure.
Once you’re in the political spotlight, it’s time to announce your run for president. After registering with the Federal Election Commission in the spring a year before the presidential election, you’ll hit the campaign trail, rallying support around the country to win the favor of your political party.
Six to nine months before the election, primary voters in certain states choose their preferred candidate. Other states hold caucuses where a political party gathers and votes for a preferred candidate. Votes at primaries and caucuses award candidates with delegates, who represent their state at national conventions.
Get the majority of your party’s delegates and at the end of the national convention, your party will announce that you are the final presidential nominee. Then you’ll take the stage, give a rousing speech, and announce your running mate.
With the election months away, you and your opponent will go head-to-head in front of tens of millions of viewers. All eyes will be on you as you share your vision for the future of the nation. Stay calm, authentic, and above all, presidential.
After years of planning, sacrifices, and nonstop campaigning, it all comes down to Election Day, held every four years on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November. All you can do now is cast your vote and wait for the results. The rest is up to the voters … technically.
When people cast their vote, they’re actually voting for electors from each state. Each state has its own group of electors, and whichever candidate wins a state’s popular vote wins all that state’s electors. The Electoral College consists of 538 electors, but you’ll need a majority (270) to win. That’s the magic number that’ll make you the leader of the free world.
So, will you keep the drapes or give the Oval Office a complete makeover? The road to the White House was long and daunting, but here you are. Now, every choice you make will impact the nation’s future — at least, until your successor is elected.
Every U.S. president started exactly where you are now: reading a listicle on how to become president in 10 easy steps.
Okay, maybe not. But one thing’s for sure: Despite the unique paths that brought them to the presidency, they all prepared for the role — even if they didn’t have this convenient guide. If you want to be president, you’ll have to set yourself up for success, and you can start by earning an online degree from The University of Texas Permian Basin.
UT Permian Basin offers flexible online undergraduate and graduate programs that will look good on your resume and can set you up for a career in politics. Here are a few options we think are very presidential:
We can’t promise that you’ll become the next U.S. president, but we can promise that our online programs deliver an exceptional education that will help you in your pursuit of a fulfilling and worthwhile career, whether it’s in politics or another path.
Sources:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/our-government/the-executive-branch/
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-4914137/president-age-constitution
https://www.usa.gov/presidential-election-process
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-President-of-the-United-States
https://www.history.com/news/what-are-the-qualifications-to-be-president-of-the-united-states
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…
Many of us have experienced misunderstandings due to miscommunication. For example, you might ask your partner to help with a chore around the house, shouting, “Can I get a hand?” They reply, “Be there in a minute!” But five minutes later, you’re frustrated—because to you, “a minute” means exactly 60 seconds, while to them, it…
“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 comes a time in most individuals’ careers when they decide, “You know what? I have career goals—and it’s time to achieve them.” While some have this epiphany early in their career, others might not make any long-term plans until they’ve gained a few years of experience or faced a significant career milestone. One thing is certain: There’s not always a straight path toward achieving those dreams.
That’s where a career development plan comes in. It’s a strategic tool that helps you determine and track your professional goals, allowing you to create a roadmap for achieving them in a timely and organized manner.
In this article, we’re divulging everything you need to know about how to write a career development plan that will help you make your professional ambitions a reality.
A career development plan, also known as a professional development plan, is a tool that allows you to map out your career goals. Once you’ve established your long-term goals, you can create a master plan that breaks them down into smaller, more manageable short-term goals. These incremental steps will guide you toward achieving your broader career objectives over time.
Creating a career development plan may seem straightforward at first: Simply outline your goals and devise a strategy to achieve them. However, with a few extra steps, you can assess your strengths and identify areas for improvement, helping you tailor your plan to your unique skills and long-term objectives.
Follow these four steps to craft a comprehensive and actionable career development plan that sets you up for success.
Start by determining where you see yourself professionally in the long term, whether that’s five, ten, or even twenty years down the road. While you might envision yourself as a principal in your current school district, for example, it’s important to ask these questions to see if your original goal aligns with your aspirations:
By answering these questions, you can evaluate if your dream aligns with your passions and strengths.
Before breaking down your objective into smaller goals, it’s important to assess your current skill set. Start by researching job listings related to your long-term career goal. Take note of the experience, responsibilities, and skills that are consistently mentioned across listings. Write those skills down and rank each one from one to five: one meaning you don’t yet have that ability, and five meaning you can already do it flawlessly.
With a clearer understanding of where your current skills stand and what’s needed to qualify for your future role, you can begin setting smaller goals to bridge the gap between your current resume and the one that will land you that position.
Once you’ve identified your long-term goals and researched the skills you need to improve or learn, you can create a roadmap with short-term goals that will help you reach your final destination.
For instance, you can work on soft skills like communication or time management, both at work and at home. Hard skills, such as data analysis or knowledge of federal and state education laws, however, require education and experience. To obtain these skills, you’ll need to consider professional development courses and additional education.
When setting your short-term goals, list them in a logical order, starting with foundational skills and knowledge and gradually progressing to more advanced objectives. Be sure to make SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—to keep you on track and help you achieve your goals within a specific timeframe.
Completing your career development plan doesn’t mean you’ve reached the finish line. To get the most out of your hard work—and to stay on track toward your long-term goal—regularly review your plan at least twice a year to ensure you’re following the timeline you set for your short-term goals. It’s also important to reassess your goals to see if any adjustments are needed to better align with your overarching objective.
While career development plans are a great way to help you take actionable steps toward your larger goal, it’s not uncommon for career goals to shift during the process. A National Institutes of Health study found that 54% of participants who completed a career-planning course changed their career preferences afterward. While creating a career plan isn’t quite the same as taking a course, it provides a clear starting point to assess your skills and identify the steps needed to reach your ultimate goal.
For many, achieving that objective involves further education. At The University of Texas Permian Basin, we offer a variety of online undergraduate and graduate programs to help you gain the skills you need to succeed.
No matter where you are in life, our online programs make it easier to balance work, life, and education. With asynchronous courses, you can complete your studies on your schedule. Plus, our virtual students also enjoy these online benefits:
Your future is only a click away. Browse our online program offerings, and when you’re ready, apply to the program that aligns with your goals!
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7605208/
Are you passionate about upholding ethical standards and advocating for others ? Do you thrive on the intellectual challenge of legal debates? If so, you’ve likely dreamt of the day that you can finally tell the world, “I’m an attorney.”
However, becoming a lawyer involves seven or more years of schooling after high school—not to mention passing the bar exam and meeting state-specific requirements. In the words of the iconic Elle Woods in the film “Legally Blonde”: “What, like it’s hard?”
With tenacity and passion, turning your dream of becoming a lawyer into reality is challenging but entirely achievable. Today, we’ll explore the role of a lawyer and the steps needed to embark on this career path.
The better question is: What don’t lawyers do? Beyond prosecuting and defending criminals, many attorneys specialize in crucial areas that help us during important life events, such as buying houses, drafting wills, and handling divorce proceedings.
However, your role as a lawyer will vary based on your specialization. Before delving into some of your typical responsibilities, let’s outline some common types of lawyers:
The specialty you choose will determine whether you spend most of your time preparing for and partaking in court proceedings and trials, but here’s a list of some typical responsibilities for most lawyers:
Below, we discuss the general steps involved in becoming a lawyer.
After graduating from high school, completing a four-year undergraduate program is the first step to earning your Juris Doctor (JD) degree. While there isn’t a specific major required for law school admission, certain majors can provide foundational skills necessary for your graduate studies, such as:
After earning a bachelor’s degree, you’ll begin studying for the LSAT, which measures your knowledge and readiness in four areas:
The first three sections are multiple choice, while the writing section (as you might expect) requires a written argument on behalf of one of two competing policy options.
We recommend preparing for the LSAT while earning your bachelor’s degree. You can tailor your courseload to include courses that will strengthen your ability to think critically, argue persuasively, and analyze precisely, such as UTPB’s Introduction to Philosophy or Psychology and Law, both offered through our online BA in psychology program.
After taking the LSAT, you can begin applying to the law schools of your choice. Most law schools will accept students with an LSAT score of 150, while more prestigious schools require scores of 160 or higher. Other requirements may include your undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, or a personal statement.
It typically takes full-time students about three years to complete their JD coursework. Part-time students may extend this to four or five years.
According to U.S. News, the first year of law school is often the most demanding, as students are adapting to new and rigorous schedules. Justin Hansford, a law professor at Howard University’s School of Law, suggests that the second year offers more flexibility, allowing students to explore specialties and define their professional identity. In the third year, the focus shifts to preparing for the bar exam and entering the legal profession.
Most states offer the bar exam twice yearly, in the winter and summer. After graduating from your JD program, you’ll apply for admission to the bar and spend a few months intensely studying for the exam. The Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, with 25 being unscored pretest questions.
Of the 175 scored questions, there are 25 randomized questions from seven subject areas, including:
Depending on the state where you plan to practice, additional requirements may be necessary, such as state-specific law exams or participation in a mentorship program. Check your state’s guidelines to confirm any further requirements after passing the bar exam, and prepare for the exhilarating moment that you’re sworn in as a licensed attorney!
As you pursue a legal career, mastering essential skills like critical thinking, communication, negotiation, time management, and analysis is crucial. While law school refines these skills, you can build a strong foundation through one of the online bachelor’s programs offered by The University of Texas Permian Basin.
We offer several relevant online undergraduate programs that are ideal for aspiring lawyers, including:
With year-round start dates and a flexible online format, you can complete your studies at your own pace. Explore our offerings and choose the path that’s right for you.
Sources:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-lawyers
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/law/pre-law-majors/
https://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/law-admissions-lowdown/articles/lsat-writing-sample-what-to-know
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/articles/what-the-lsat-is-and-how-to-prepare
https://www.usnews.com/education/articles/how-long-is-law-school-and-what-is-it-like
Do you see yourself in management? While the term “manager” and its related duties are broad in scope, many of the same principles apply across a wide swath of professions. Developing your expertise in core management concepts and practices can unlock countless leadership roles. For the ambitious, professional development can be the pathway to more advanced—and more lucrative—job choices.
Many companies offer their staff training opportunities in the form of occasional seminars or webinars. However, some individuals see their best results by enrolling in programs from accredited institutions that confer a recognized credential.
Here we’ll show you why, how, and where to get affordable, reputable professional development assistance.
It’s common for companies and organizations to set minimum degree requirements for hiring candidates, and they may have similar requirements for internal advancement. Whether you’re looking for a rewarding job with a new employer or want to go farther in your existing one, a degree or certificate will bolster your resume and help you attain that new management position. Worried about your time and money? Some certificates can be completed in just two semesters, and competitively priced programs are out there. Need more financial assistance? Another source of professional development funding could be right in front of you.
Tuition reimbursement is a perk included in some employee benefit packages. If approved, your employer will compensate you for some or all tuition costs for a credential that they believe will benefit you and the organization.
While companies may use a tuition reimbursement benefit to remain competitive and attract good candidates, the fact is most employers want to see you grow and succeed while bringing more expertise to the company. They recognize the role that professional development can play in that. Tuition reimbursement availability and amounts vary among employers, so inquire with your human resources department for specifics.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most management occupations require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, and these roles potentially command six-figure compensation. See sample positions and their pay here.
The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a variety of degree and certificate programs that will help you hone your management acumen and award you with a marketable credential. Here’s why you should consider us:
Establish a solid groundwork for leadership positions across diverse business sectors with this undergraduate degree. Through your studies, you’ll acquire a comprehensive command of practical and theoretical business principles, setting you up for success in your chosen field. Add an operations management specialization to this program at no extra cost!
Healthcare managers make decisions that impact not only livelihoods but lives. This program equips you with the essential knowledge and skills to make informed choices with confidence, ensuring the best outcomes for all who rely on your leadership.
From the heart of the energy industry comes a unique learning opportunity! Expand your energy business expertise to advance in a related field with a stand-alone graduate certificate created by UT Permian Basin and led by industry experts. Complete our 12-credit program with your choice of energy business specialty courses. Bachelor’s degree required for admission.
UTPB and the GIS and geospatial industries have been partners for decades—a relationship that formed the foundation of our 12-credit online Graduate GIS and Geospatial Certificate. Build skills in today’s GIS systems that are applicable across a broad range of industries as you prepare for management and other positions. Bachelor’s degree required for admission.
At all stages of your UTPB journey, you can rely on our career services team for personalized, one-on-one guidance on how to optimize your skills for leadership success. Just reach out.
Want more online program choices? You’ll find dozens of them here.
Sometimes one degree isn’t enough to achieve your academic, professional, or personal goals. As a bachelor’s degree holder, should you go back to college for a second bachelor’s degree or apply to a master’s program? The answer is: That depends. Let’s look at each type of credential, address some common concerns, and then direct you to the right people for further information.
You may want to consider earning another bachelor’s degree if you’re looking to:
In addition to wanting to change careers, refresh your skills, or reenter the workforce, you may prefer to pursue a master’s degree for these benefits:
While some master’s degree programs allow you to apply after completing any bachelor’s program, others require you to have a related bachelor’s degree and/or relevant work experience before you can be admitted.
If you’ve already earned a bachelor’s degree, you likely completed 120 credits. When earning a second bachelor’s degree, you are not expected to earn another 120 undergraduate credits. You can generally transfer up to 60 credits from your previous bachelor’s degree, which means you can start your program already halfway to earning that second degree. You will need to complete the remaining 60 credits, which cover core, major, and related elective courses. You may also have to complete any relevant prerequisite courses.
For more specific information on which credits will transfer, use our transfer credit calculator.
Let’s say you have a bachelor’s degree in education and are looking to make a career change into accounting. You’re torn between pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting or an MBA in Accounting. We can look at both programs to compare the cost, number of credits, time to complete, and job and salary outlook.
BBA in Accounting
| Requirements* | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Lower-level business core | 18 |
| Business core | 24 |
| Major courses | 27 |
| Business electives | 9 |
| Prerequisites (estimated) | 9 |
| Total Credit Hours | 87 |
| Total Tuition | $31,523.58 |
MBA in Accounting
| Requirements | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| Prep course | 3 |
| Core courses | 12 |
| Courses beyond core | 21 |
| Specialty: accounting elective courses | 9 |
| Total Credits Hours | 45 |
| Total Tuition | $17,594.55 |
Using the total credit hour information from above, we can calculate an estimated time to completion based on whether you plan on taking your courses part-time or full-time. At UTPB, most of our online programs are accelerated. Each semester has two 8-week terms (summer terms are 7 weeks long).
BBA in Accounting
| Part-Time (at least 6 credit hours per semester) | Full-Time (at least 12 credit hours per semester) |
|---|---|
| 2-1/2 years (15 terms) | 1-1/2 years (8 terms) |
MBA in Accounting
| Part-Time (at least 6 credit hours per semester) | Full-Time (at least 12 credit hours per semester) |
|---|---|
| 1-1/2 years (8 terms) | 1 year (4 terms) |
Next, let’s look at job posting analytics from Lightcast to compare the minimum education level required and median advertised salaries posted for accountants and auditors between March 2022 and March 2024.
BBA in Accounting
| Unique Job Postings Requiring Bachelor’s Degree as Minimum Education | Median Advertised Salary |
|---|---|
| 17,167 | $85,800 |
MBA in Accounting
| Unique Job Postings Requiring Master’s Degree as Minimum Education | Median Advertised Salary |
|---|---|
| 1,085 | $97,500 |
The University of Texas Permian Basin is proud to offer nearly 40 online degree programs representing some of today’s most in-demand fields. All our online programs provide the same opportunity to experience flexible, self-paced learning from practically any location. You don’t have to choose between your career, your personal commitments, and your education!
If you’re considering that second bachelor’s degree, our online undergraduate programs encompass a variety of rewarding fields, including business, social sciences, humanities, and nursing. Choose a specialized major in one the following degree programs:
More than half of our bachelor’s degree programs are available online only from this UT System institution. Review all our online bachelor’s degree programs now.
Decided a master’s degree is best for you? We offer graduate programs in business (including the energy sector), public administration, language, education (including special education), and more. Program types include:
See all available online master’s degree programs here.
Unsure which path to take? Reach out to us and we’ll steer you in the right direction to get the answers you need.
Sources:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/second-bachelors-vs-masters
At age 15, Malala Yousafzai became an international symbol for all girls who wish to receive an education. Outspoken on the topic since childhood, Malala was shot in the head while walking home from school by a member of the Pakistani Taliban, which had banned education for girls. Malala survived the attack, recovered, and became revered worldwide as an activist and author. She was awarded the Nobel Prize for her efforts at 17 and is still the youngest person to receive that recognition.
Malala’s story may not be typical, but it illustrates how immense the barriers to equal access to education are and what girls can achieve despite these challenges. It also reminds us that education is essential if girls are to enjoy healthy, independent, confident, and rewarding lives.
Here we’ll explore initiatives that seek to empower girls within the United States and beyond through educational access and support.
Governmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), nonprofits, and other types of groups have taken steps toward advancing gender equality in education. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Malala herself is leading the charge with the Malala Fund. Below are some of the ways organizations and individuals are currently supporting or can support these efforts.
Signed into law in the U.S. in 1972, Title IX prohibits gender-based exclusion or discrimination against anyone who participates in a federally funded educational program or activity. It also gives girls access to school-related athletic and sports programs.
More targeted federal legislative efforts—including the Keeping Girls in School Act, which would see the U.S. leading international efforts at expanding educational access for girls—have been proposed in recent years but have yet to become law.
Organizations from the World Bank to the United Nations Girls’ Education Initiative (UNGEI) are providing advocacy and resources to help reduce gender-based violence: a social norm that inhibits girls’ school participation in many Sub-Saharan African countries and elsewhere.
The Gender-Responsive Pedagogy for Early Childhood Education Toolkit, issued by UNGEI, centers on helping teachers integrate gender equality into their pedagogy to overcome cultural and gender biases and norms and ensure girls and boys are treated and supported equally in the classroom.
While the U.S. provides free primary and secondary education for all, the same is not true worldwide. In Nigeria, where poverty is rampant and school comes at a cost beyond the means of many, some parents are prioritizing the education of their sons at the expense of their daughters. To combat this, the Nigerian government has introduced the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), which provides scholarships to offset financial barriers and other obstacles.
In rural African communities, the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) works with community leaders, educators, and families to identify girls in need of education and mentorship. The organization then provides monetary and social support for both. Other outreach efforts help girls in rural areas by assessing their needs through interviews, surveys, and focus groups; offering access to resources; helping connect girls through clubs and support groups; and involving the broader community, including boys and men, to help them understand the value of educating girls.
Studies have shown that providing feminine care products at school can improve girls’ attendance. In some cases, cost, stigma, and/or unpredictable menstrual cycles prevent girls and young women from having these products when needed. As of this writing, 25 states and the District of Columbia have enshrined free access to period products in schools in their lawbooks.
Distance learning programs enable girls living in rural, remote, and underserved areas to access the same high-quality education programs as other children while removing travel and associated cost burdens.
The University of Texas Permian Basin is doing its part to make higher education accessible to all. Our 40+ online degree and certificate programs empower students to earn an educational credential at their own pace from virtually any corner of the globe. We designed our programs to accommodate professional and personal obligations, because we understand that our students have lives outside of school.
Greater than 60% of current UTPB students are women, and we’re honored to be able to help them and all our students achieve their higher education goals. Elevate your own potential as a teacher or education leader, renewable energy champion, business or government leader, nurse, or other essential profession, and inspire girls to do the same. These programs can provide the foundation:
We welcome the opportunity to discuss any of our online programs with you! Just click on any program link above and look for “Request More Information.”
Ready to apply? Get started here.
At The University of Texas Permian Basin, we’re proud of our online programs, and we love to talk about them. But we believe the best way to share their benefits is to allow actual program graduates to speak for themselves. We hope you find the words of these UTPB alumni as inspiring as we do!
“I got promoted while I was getting the degree. I was able to put on my resume that I was pursuing a degree, and I was currently in the program. So, it helped me get the position I’m in now, which is a team lead position.”
“I think I learned at least as much as I would have if I had been in a classroom, if not more.”
“I was able to get a lot of industry information from the student base as well. There were some networking opportunities.”
“[A]ll of the content always had an end in mind, and it was connected to our certification exam in some way.”
“As soon as I graduated, I had an assistant principal position. And then, as soon as five years came up, I was able to get my job as an actual principal. And I would most definitely say that the program prepared me for it.”
“I can’t thank the professors there enough, and I think that they have really made an impact on my life.”
“[I]f you’re interested in landing a leadership role, improving your entrepreneurial skills, or transforming your current career path, UTPB’s MBA program will help you get there.”
“I think studying online gave me an opportunity to be more disciplined.”
“I know I can think a lot clearer now and more objectively and I’m able to sort of take a step back and look at the big picture in a lot of things.”
“I was able to work full time, while being pregnant, raise another little child, be a wife, and take on courses at UTPB.”
“Each [professor] cared for your success and wanted to make sure you were doing well in your class and understanding the material.”
“[A]t UTPB, it felt like I was learning exactly what I needed to be successful.”
“I chose the right path because [the program’s] helping me grow and I should not have an issue with the certification exam because of how relevant the topics are.”
“It was difficult before COVID being all online. There wasn’t much interaction. It was just a lot of submissions. But this [UTPB] program is not that way.”
“I’ve been able to interact with educators in other districts and hear their perspective. [This program] has also allowed me to network with Dr. Uzat, who’s been very supportive. He helped me write a scholarship letter for TASA to try to get some scholarship funds.”
“I looked around online and that’s how I found UTPB. It’s more affordable versus what the other colleges were telling me. The fees were maybe less than half the cost of the [other] university fees.”
“I did really enjoy my peer support. We all had the same goals, the same mindset, and we all were there to support each other.”
“One thing I really liked about UTPB is [when] I ended up running out of financial aid, [UTPB] paid my tuition. That meant so much to me!”
“I started looking into the program, and I was like, this is something that will work for me. The programs they have. The tuition. The length of the classes. [The eight-week session length] was the most important one … because I thought, well, I can take more classes if they’re shorter.
“You save on the parking, you save on the gas, you save on the insurance, you save on the food. There’s a lot of convenience.”
“I got really good when it comes to time management and also setting up my priorities. Now I know how to work my time and use it wisely.”
“I would recommend this online program because the advisors and professors are knowledgeable, professional, supportive, and caring.”
“I had the chance to work in groups, make friends in my field, gather ideas and feedback, and maintain these relationships even after graduation.”
“Working online allowed me to be at home while I worked, stopping for family dinners and scheduling my work around important family events when necessary.”
“The professors were excellent and were always willing to help in any way they could.”
“I feel more confident and find it easier to write and speak to other individuals that have master or doctorate degrees.”
“The pace of the program and the expedited plan made working and attending school manageable.”
“[W]ith the structure of an online program, I get to set my hours, I get to set where I work, [and] I get to set how long I work.”
“Dr. Wilson helped me get back on track to where I gained the confidence and the knowledge that I needed to become that real teacher that I already was.”
“Being online doesn’t mean disconnected. I still felt just as close to my fellow classmates as I do in a classroom in person.”
You’ve seen what our alumni have to say. Now make your choice from 40+ online graduate and undergraduate degree and certificate programs and create your own success story. We look forward to seeing you in online classes soon!
*UTPB is the only UT System institution offering this program online.
Are you considering earning your bachelor’s degree? A recent federal government report revealed that more than 60% of undergraduate students were taking one or more online courses and nearly 30% of undergraduate students were enrolled solely in online courses. While the COVID-19 pandemic initially gave degree seekers no other choice, that’s no longer the case. Online and hybrid degree program enrollments are increasing even when students have other options.
Here we’ll explore some reasons why students are pursuing their undergraduate degrees online, and why you should consider doing so as well—through The University of Texas Permian Basin.
Though some will say anyone born in 1980 or after is a digital native, the “real” digital natives (those who have never known a world without the internet), are arguably Gen Z—born somewhere in the range of 1996-2012. As digital natives, they’re accustomed to conducting as many of their daily activities online as possible, as tends to be their preference. If one is communicating, shopping, banking, and possibly working online, earning a degree online may be a foregone conclusion.
Data contemporary with the federal government report cited above shows that 91% of full-time undergraduate students at four-year public institutions are under the age of 25, potentially supporting the digital native connection. That’s not to say online degree programs are only for students of any specific age, however. Recent high school graduates and non-degreed, established working professionals alike are realizing the tremendous advantages that online undergraduate programs provide:
In a time of alarming inflation, being able to forego the costs associated with a college commute—parking permits, gasoline, tolls, and even vehicle wear and tear—is a plus some first-time students can’t pass up. Depending on their chosen institution, they may also be able to save on tuition.
Because of their international reach, online degree programs give undergraduate students, especially those who may not be very far along in a career, the opportunity to make some professional contacts from the global workplace. These are the people they’ll want to stay connected with and reach out to for career advice and tips about job openings when approaching graduation.
The student body of UT Permian Basin is composed of greater than 80% undergraduates. At UTPB, we understand your goals, and we’re here to help you achieve them! We offer online degree programs for undergraduates who know exactly where they want to go and for those who want the flexibility to pursue a variety of rewarding career paths with their college credentials. All UTPB’s online programs:
We’ve sorted our online undergraduate degrees by UTPB college or school below. Click on any link to view each program’s overview, requirements, courses, and potential careers and salaries:
*Programs available online exclusively at this UT System institution.
A degree can open new doors for you. Online programs make it easier to reach those doors. Consider earning one of our undergraduate degrees online and apply to your chosen program today!
Sources:
https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=80
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/tech-innovation/teaching-learning/2023/08/15/report-suggests-online-learning-has-yet-peak
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/csb/postsecondary-students
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2022/10/14/more-traditional-age-students-enroll-fully-online-universities
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/student-resources/online-learning-stats/