MBA Skills Checklist: Critical Thinking

Publicado el by Santarvis Brown, EdD, JD

Why Critical Thinking Is an Important MBA Skill

Not every business problem arrives as a tidy case study. A leader may have a crowded dashboard, conflicting advice, an impatient client, and only a few hours to decide what happens next. In moments like these, knowledge matters, but judgment matters just as much.

That is why critical thinking ranks among the most valuable MBA skills. Indeed, the lists critical thinking and problem-solving among the competencies employers identify as key to success in the 21st-century workplace. Professionals who can question assumptions, weigh evidence, and apply human judgment are better prepared to lead through uncertainty, especially as AI reshapes work.

What Is Critical Thinking in Business, and Why Does It Matter?

Critical thinking in business is the disciplined process of defining a problem, evaluating available information, considering competing explanations, and choosing a course of action supported by evidence. It is not endless skepticism or the habit of disagreeing with everyone in the room.

describes critical thinking as identifying and analyzing problems, interpreting information, synthesizing evidence, considering consequences, and communicating conclusions. In practice, it helps a manager recognize when a sales decline is really a retention issue or when a staffing problem is actually a workload problem. Better thinking supports better business decision-making.

How Critical Thinking Improves Other Business Skills

Critical thinking strengthens other MBA skills by helping professionals move beyond surface-level information and connect decisions to larger organizational goals.

Planificaci贸n estrat茅gica

Strategic planning requires more than setting ambitious targets. Leaders must read the environment, distinguish a passing disruption from a lasting change, and decide where limited resources will have the greatest effect. Critical thinkers test the assumptions beneath a plan and consider what could change the outcome. The result is a strategy that is more realistic and adaptable.

An谩lisis de datos

Numbers can clarify a situation, but they can also create false confidence. A strong analyst asks where the data came from, what may be missing, and whether the measure actually answers the question. Critical thinking helps leaders avoid confusing correlation with causation or treating a polished dashboard as proof. Data becomes useful when it is examined in context.

Problem-Solving

The first explanation for a problem is often the most convenient, not the most accurate. A critical thinker separates symptoms from causes, compares possible solutions, and considers unintended consequences. This approach reduces repeated fixes and makes business decision-making more deliberate. It also helps teams learn from setbacks.

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Clear communication begins before anyone speaks or writes. Leaders must decide which facts matter, what the audience needs to understand, and where uncertainty remains. Critical thinkers can explain not only what they recommend but why. Because they have considered alternative views, they are better prepared to answer questions without becoming defensive or vague.

Practical Ways MBA Students Can Strengthen Critical Thinking

Critical thinking improves through repeated use, reflection, and feedback. MBA students can build the habit in class discussions, case analyses, workplace projects, and everyday professional conversations.

Challenge Assumptions

Before approving a recommendation, write down what must be true for it to succeed. Then, examine each assumption. Is it supported by current evidence, or does it come from habit, preference, or an earlier situation that no longer applies? This step can expose risk before time and money are committed.

Ask Better Questions

Broad questions鈥擶ill this work?鈥攐ften produce shallow answers. Instead, ask, 鈥淯nder what conditions would this work, and what could cause it to fail?鈥� Replace 鈥淲hich option is best?鈥� with 鈥淏est for which customer, budget, and time horizon?鈥� Better questions sharpen analysis and improve business decision-making.

Seek Diverse Perspectives

Fast agreement can feel productive, but it can also hide blind spots. Invite input from people in different functions, at different levels of authority, or who will experience the consequences of the decision. Ask one person to challenge the favored option. A wider range of perspectives often reveals overlooked risks and opportunities.

Data-Driven Decision-Making

Use evidence to guide judgment without expecting data to make the decision for you. Compare sources, check how current the information is, and identify what cannot yet be known. After acting, compare the result with the original expectation. That feedback loop turns experience into learning.

Hone Your Critical Thinking at 精东影业

A Master of Business Administration program gives students a structured environment in which to practice difficult decisions, defend recommendations, and learn from feedback. Those experiences can strengthen critical thinking while developing other MBA skills in strategy, leadership, communication, analytics, and problem-solving.

精东影业鈥檚 30-credit MBA program is 100% online and designed with the flexibility working adults need. Courses begin every eight weeks, and the program combines asynchronous study with required live components that support collaboration and professional presentations. Students may choose from 13 in-demand concentrations or select General Business and pursue an area of focus personalized to their career goals.

Eligible graduate coursework may be considered for transfer, with up to 15 graduate credits accepted toward the MBA, subject to grade, age, evaluation, and program requirements. The School of Business is listed by the as a member with accredited programs, and 精东影业 identifies its MBA program as accredited by the IACBE.

Students can also draw on instructors, academic advisors, career counselors, peers, and other student success resources throughout their studies, including Career Readiness, which can help you apply your skills and advance your career after graduation. Explore other MBA skills and learn more about why an MBA is worth it in a workplace increasingly shaped by AI.

Critical thinking in business is the ability to pause without becoming passive, question without becoming cynical, and act without pretending every uncertainty has disappeared. It is a practical discipline鈥攁nd one that can change the quality of a leader鈥檚 decisions.

How Nuclear Degree Programs Prepare Students for Careers in Nuclear Energy

Publicado el by Anveeksh Koneru

A nuclear engineering technology program prepares students for a wide range of careers in nuclear energy by combining technical knowledge with operational training and industry best practices. Students gain an understanding of how nuclear facilities generate power, maintain safe operations, and meet strict regulatory requirements.
Beyond classroom theory, many programs emphasize real-world applications through laboratory exercises, simulations, and problem-solving activities. This combination helps students develop the skills employers value while building a foundation for long-term success in the field.

What You Learn in a Nuclear Engineering Technology Program

In addition to building technical expertise, students develop skills that employers across the nuclear industry value, including problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and attention to detail. Through coursework, laboratories, and simulation-based learning, a nuclear engineering technology program helps prepare graduates to contribute to the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of nuclear facilities throughout their careers.

Technical Competence

Technical competence is the foundation of nearly all careers in nuclear energy. Nuclear engineering technology programs help students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to support the operation, maintenance, and oversight of nuclear systems and facilities.
Students typically study subjects such as reactor systems, radiation protection, electrical systems, thermodynamics, instrumentation and controls, and nuclear regulations. These topics help them understand not only how systems work individually but also how they interact within a complex operating environment.

Many nuclear degree programs also incorporate simulations and simulator-based learning. These tools allow students to practice responding to realistic operating conditions in a controlled environment. By working through scenarios that mirror what professionals encounter in the field, students can strengthen their decision-making, troubleshooting, and analytical skills before entering the workforce.
This blend of theory and hands-on learning helps graduates prepare for careers in nuclear energy that demand technical precision, sound judgment, and continuous learning.

Safety Culture

Safety culture is the collective commitment of an organization and its employees to prioritize safety in every decision, action, and process. In the nuclear industry, safety culture goes beyond following rules. It involves personal accountability, open communication, continuous improvement, and a shared responsibility to identify and address potential risks before they become problems.

Because nuclear facilities operate within one of the most highly regulated industries in the world, employers place significant value on professionals who understand the principles of a strong safety culture. Nuclear engineering technology programs introduce students to industry expectations, , and the importance of maintaining safety-focused attitudes throughout their careers.

Students learn how human performance, procedures, teamwork, and leadership contribute to safe operations. They also gain an appreciation for how a strong safety culture supports public confidence, environmental stewardship, and operational success.

Whether pursuing technical, supervisory, or management positions, professionals who embrace safety culture are better prepared to succeed in careers in nuclear energy and contribute to the long-term reliability of nuclear facilities.

Reliability and Operational Excellence

Reliability and operational excellence are essential principles across the nuclear industry. Facilities are expected to operate safely, efficiently, and consistently while meeting demanding performance standards. As a result, employers seek professionals who understand how disciplined operations contribute to organizational success.

A nuclear engineering technology program helps students develop habits and skills that support reliable performance. Coursework often emphasizes attention to detail, problem-solving, procedural compliance, quality assurance, and systems thinking. These competencies help graduates understand how their work affects broader operational outcomes.

Students also learn the importance of continuous improvement. By analyzing performance data, identifying opportunities for improvement, and following established processes, nuclear professionals help facilities maintain high levels of efficiency and reliability.
These capabilities can position graduates for stable and rewarding careers in nuclear energy. Organizations value employees who contribute to operational excellence because their work supports safety objectives, regulatory compliance, and long-term organizational performance.

Prepare for Your Career in Nuclear Energy with 精东影业

If you鈥檙e interested in a career in nuclear energy, 精东影业鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology program can help you build the technical knowledge, safety mindset, and operational expertise employers value. As the only fully online BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology program in the United States, the program offers flexibility for working adults while incorporating industry-relevant learning experiences, including simulator-based training. With dedicated student support and resources like 精东影业鈥檚 Career Readiness services, you can prepare to start or advance your career in nuclear energy with confidence.

精东影业 signs its first partnership serving international students

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Virtual University of C么te d鈥橧voire President Ti茅moman Kone (left) shakes hands with 精东影业 President David Schejbal (right) to commemorate a new partnership serving international students.

ALBANY, N.Y. 鈥� 精东影业 welcomed representatives from 听(UVCI) to its Albany headquarters to sign a historic global partnership agreement. The two institutions formally established their international collaboration with a signing ceremony.听听

精东影业鈥檚 first partnership serving international students, the collaboration with UVCI reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to higher education and creating new opportunities for students across borders. Graduates of UVCI鈥檚 database license program鈥� the equivalent of a bachelor鈥檚 degree鈥� will have access to a seamless pathway to earn an MBA at 精东影业. 听

Based in Abidjan, C么te d鈥橧voire鈥檚 largest city, UVCI was established in 2015 to expand access to quality postsecondary education while addressing capacity constraints at traditional universities in the West African country. Like 精东影业, UVCI鈥檚 mission is based on providing accessible education through digital innovation.听听

鈥淥ur commitment is to use digital technology to train young people capable of innovating and launching ventures directly in the field, without being held back by physical or geographical barriers,鈥� said UVCI President Ti茅moman Kone. 鈥淏y partnering with 精东影业, an institution with a long history of online education innovation, we can create even more opportunities for learners through advanced degrees grounded in practical, workforce-ready knowledge.鈥�听

鈥淔rom West Africa to the American Northeast, UVCI and 精东影业 share a mission that unites us across oceans and borders,鈥� said 精东影业 President David Schejbal. 鈥淭his partnership will establish new educational pathways for UVCI learners, supporting their pursuit of personal and professional goals anywhere in the world.鈥�听

For more information on this partnership, visit: excelsior.edu/partner/universite-virtuelle-de-cote-divorie-virtual-university-of-the-ivory-coast/听听

听# # #

Contacto con los medios de comunicaci贸n Universidad 精东影业:
Jason Bonafide jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

ACERCA DE LA UNIVERSIDAD EXCELSIOR
La Universidad 精东影业 es una instituci贸n en l铆nea acreditada y sin 谩nimo de lucro centrada en ayudar a los adultos a completar sus t铆tulos y avanzar en sus carreras. 精东影业 contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, educada y preparada para la carrera profesional valorando el aprendizaje permanente con 茅nfasis en servir a individuos hist贸ricamente subrepresentados en la educaci贸n superior. Fundada en 1971, 精东影业 va al encuentro de los estudiantes all铆 donde se encuentran - acad茅mica y geogr谩ficamente - eliminando los obst谩culos a los objetivos educativos de los adultos que persiguen la formaci贸n continua y la obtenci贸n de un t铆tulo. Nuestros pilares incluyen la innovaci贸n, la flexibilidad, la excelencia acad茅mica y la integridad.

精东影业 is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. 精东影业鈥檚 academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs.听

Autorizada por la Comisi贸n de Educaci贸n Independiente del Departamento de Educaci贸n de Florida (n.潞 de licencia 12928). Para obtener m谩s informaci贸n sobre esta instituci贸n, p贸ngase en contacto con la Comisi贸n en la direcci贸n 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, n煤mero gratuito: (888)-224-6684.

How AI and Digital Twins Are Changing Mechanical Engineering

Publicado el por Jenna Kerwin

What if you could test a machine before it existed, predict when a part might break, or use AI to quickly create new designs? That鈥檚 the future of mechanical engineering鈥攁nd it鈥檚 already taking shape. Artificial intelligence and digital twins are giving engineers innovative new ways to design, simulate, and improve machines using real-time data and virtual models. These technologies are expanding what鈥檚 possible, opening the door to smarter designs, more efficient systems, and innovative solutions to today鈥檚 complex challenges.

Living Through Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0, or , was the term first introduced in 2011 to define the rapidly emerging industrial technology in the world. Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing through technologies like AI, , 3D printing, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and digital twins. By combining real-time data with smart machines or automated systems, manufacturers can create more efficient, flexible, and responsive items.

What Are Digital Twins, and How Do They Work?

A is a detailed virtual representation of a physical product, machine, process, or entire facility. It uses real-time data and simulations to show how the physical counterpart acts. Unlike an ordinary model, a digital twin changes throughout the item鈥檚 life cycle. This allows engineers to design, test, troubleshoot, and fix systems in a virtual environment before building or making physical changes. By utilizing Industry 4.0 technology, including , digital twins can help manufacturers improve product quality, streamline production, help with maintenance, reduce waste, train employees, and make smarter decisions.

How AI and Digital Twins Work Together

Artificial intelligence and digital twins rely on data, so combining the two technologies creates powerful opportunities for mechanical engineers. AI can analyze the large amounts of data generated by a digital twin to identify patterns, make predictions, and improve performance. For example, AI-enhanced digital twins can predict when an aircraft engine may require maintenance. By learning from historical data and analyzing new information, digital twins can make accurate predictions, helping engineers design more efficient systems and make smarter decisions.

The Benefits of Combining AI with Digital Twins

AI-powered digital twins are beneficial to mechanical engineers and manufacturers in a variety of ways, including:

  • Predictive maintenance: AI detects potential equipment failures early, reducing downtime.
  • Smart data processing: AI analyzes large volumes of data to uncover useful insights.
  • Faster design: AI allows engineers to test more design possibilities in less time.
  • Energy optimization: AI improves efficiency, output, and energy use throughout the design, production, and maintenance processes.
  • Smart recommendations: AI provides guidance to help engineers troubleshoot problems and make faster, better decisions.
  • Smart solutions: AI not only identifies problems but also recommends solutions and next steps.
  • Safe virtual testing: Engineers can test system changes virtually before implementing them in the real world.

Skills You Should Develop to Work with Digital Twins

Working with AI and digital twins requires technical, engineering, and interpersonal skills. Mechanical engineers need to understand data analytics, IoT, programming languages like Python, simulation and modeling tools, and cloud computing. It鈥檚 also helpful to have strong engineering and industry knowledge. In addition, problem-solving and communication skills help engineers and engineering techs troubleshoot issues, interpret complex data, and explain issues to others.

Start Your Career in Mechanical Engineering Technology at 精东影业

As AI, digital twins, and other emerging technologies continue to reshape mechanical engineering, professionals with a strong foundation in engineering and technology will be most successful in this field. 精东影业鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology program teaches you the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to adapt to emerging technologies. 精东影业 also provides academic support and resources to help you stay on track, and Career Readiness can help you explore career paths, strengthen your resume and interview skills, and put your degree to work.

Whether you鈥檙e looking to advance in your current role or transition into a new career in engineering technology

Finding His Way: Patrick Corbett鈥檚 Unexpected Journey

Publicado el por Jenna Kerwin

When Patrick Corbett first enrolled in college in 2017, he couldn鈥檛 have imagined that one day he would be a graduate with a 4.0 GPA, let alone an engineer, a college instructor, and a father.

鈥淚 failed so many times,鈥� Corbett says. 鈥淎nd if you told me at 20 years old that I was going to be in the position that I am now, then I don鈥檛 think I would have believed myself.鈥�

Corbett, who graduated from 精东影业 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology in 2025, works as an electronic warfare engineer for SRC Inc., a defense contractor focused on technologies that help protect military service members. Corbett also teaches industrial electricity at Onondaga Community College, in Syracuse, New York, and is pursuing a Master of Business Administration at 精东影业.

He still finds his success humbling.

A Loss That Changed Everything

Corbett鈥檚 career path began with his family.

His father owned a construction company and was the first person to encourage him to think beyond working with his hands. 鈥淏asically, the first thing he said to me, he said, 鈥楶atrick, I don鈥檛 want you working for me,鈥欌�� Corbett recalls. Instead, his father suggested that he look into studying electrical technology at Onondaga Community College because he could succeed financially and professionally in such a diverse field. Corbett started the program in 2017, but just two months later, his father died unexpectedly of a heart attack.

The loss was devastating for Corbett, and he dropped out of college.

He found himself trying to process grief while figuring out what direction his life would take. So, for a time, he stepped away from school. He was unsure what his future would hold and didn鈥檛 know what to do next. Ultimately, he settled on a direction.

鈥淚 realized [my father] probably wouldn鈥檛 want me to drop out,鈥� Corbett says.

The Right Fit at 精东影业

Corbett had difficulty finding a higher education institution where he felt like he belonged. He eventually returned to Onondaga Community College and finished his associate degree in electrical technology in 2021. At the same time, he landed a position as an electronics RF technician at SRC. He then enrolled in an online electrical engineering program at Arizona State University, but the experience didn鈥檛 feel like the right fit.

Then, he remembered that professors at Onondaga Community College鈥攁n education partner of 精东影业颅鈥攕poke highly of 精东影业, so he decided to make the switch.

For Corbett, the biggest draw was balance. He was working full time, teaching, and building a family life with his fianc茅e and young daughter. At 精东影业, he found an online format that gave him clarity and structure from the start. He appreciated being able to look ahead, understand course expectations, and build school around the realities of his daily life. Just as important, he found professors who were accessible and invested.

鈥淭丑别 work-life balance 鈥� is the whole reason why I chose 精东影业,鈥� he says, adding, 鈥淚 really was able to thrive [because] the professors really pay attention to you.鈥�

That support helped him succeed.

Work with Real-World Impact

听Corbett graduated from 精东影业 in agosto 2025 with a 4.0 GPA, and soon after, he was promoted to his current position as an electronic warfare engineer.

At SRC, he contributes to the development and analysis of advanced electronic systems that support U.S. defense missions. His role involves working with complex signal data and creating models that help improve awareness and protection for military personnel.

It鈥檚 meaningful work for Corbett. 鈥淚 think the most rewarding part about it is just knowing you鈥檙e saving a life,鈥� he says. 鈥淛ust being able to do anything that you can to make sure that they make it home safe to their families is the most important aspect of the job.鈥�

As a father, Corbett approaches his work with gravity. He often thinks about service members with families waiting for them to return home. The responsibility, he says, keeps him focused.

Student to Teacher听

While building his engineering career, an unexpected opportunity opened for Corbett. An adjunct position in Corbett鈥檚 field became available at Onondaga Community College, so he quickly applied. Former professors at his alma mater remembered the student he had been and the potential they had seen in him. So, when they saw he had applied, they were excited at the prospect of having him return as a faculty member.

They offered Corbett the chance to teach industrial electricity and develop a course from the ground up.

He is now in his fourth semester teaching at Onondaga Community College and says his favorite part of being in the classroom is the moment when something finally clicks in a student鈥檚 head.

He knows the feeling well because he has lived it himself.

鈥淚 love seeing when they just don鈥檛 understand something, and then that second it finally clicks,鈥� he says. 鈥淭丑别n I get to tell them, 鈥楽ee, I told you you鈥檇 be able to do it.鈥欌�� He hopes he can help them stay on their paths and meet their goals.

Learning from Failure

Corbett knows firsthand how easy it is to feel like the finish line is too far away. He also knows what it feels like to miss family events, lose free time, and wonder whether the sacrifices are worth it. But he believes there is value in staying focused on the bigger picture.

鈥淵ou鈥檙e allowed to be selfish for something that鈥檚 going to better your future. And I think that鈥檚 a big aspect that a lot of students need to see,鈥� Corbett says. 鈥淚 tell my students that, as well. I say, 鈥榊ou鈥檙e allowed to be selfish because this is for you, and overall, you鈥檙e the only one that鈥檚 going to be able to live your life. So, this is the way to make it better.鈥欌��

Corbett says that, looking back, one lesson stands above the rest: What feels like failure in the moment often turns into something much bigger.

鈥淚鈥檝e realized that your greatest failures are actually your biggest successes,鈥� he says.

That realization has defined much of his journey.

Where He Wants to Be

The young man who dropped out of college more than once is now an engineer, a teacher, a graduate student, a father, and a soon-to-be husband. And he鈥檚 a professional who is trusted with work that helps protect lives.

Corbett is also someone who understands that success doesn鈥檛 always look the way you imagined it.

These days, when he isn鈥檛 working, studying, or teaching, Corbett spends time with his fianc茅e, daughter, and family, or out on the golf course, whenever he can.

Life is busy now, but in the best way.

鈥淚t鈥檚 nice. It鈥檚 steady,鈥� he says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 where I want to be.鈥�

精东影业 and PITC Institute partner to expand access to nursing programs

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y. 鈥� 精东影业 and are proud to announce a new partnership designed to expand access to educational opportunities. This collaboration creates a seamless and affordable pathway for PITC Institute Practical Nurse Associate in Specialized Technology degree graduates to continue their education and advance their careers through 精东影业鈥檚 portfolio of online degree programs, including further studies in nursing and health sciences.

Through this partnership, eligible students will benefit from:

  • 10% tuition discount on undergraduate and graduate tuition.
  • Tuition deferral option, allowing eligible students whose employers offer to repay some or all of their tuition.
  • Personalized support from an enrollment specialist to answer questions and guide students through the enrollment process.
  • Dedicated partnership webpage with program details, transfer information, and enrollment guidance.

These educational partnership benefits are also available for eligible PITC Institute employees, as well as their spouses or domestic partners and children.

鈥溇耙碘�檚 partnership with PITC Institute helps learners continue their healthcare education with greater flexibility and more opportunities for academic and professional growth,鈥� said 精东影业 President David Schejbal. 鈥淭hrough collaborations like this, higher education institutions can support lifelong learning while meeting the needs of an evolving workforce.鈥�

鈥淎t PITC Institute, we are committed to creating opportunities for our graduates to continue building on the education and skills they have worked so hard to achieve,鈥� said Shahid Ahmed, president of PITC Institute. 鈥淥ur partnership with 精东影业 provides PITC graduates with an accessible pathway to advance their education, expand their professional opportunities, and continue growing within the nursing and healthcare professions.鈥�

精东影业鈥檚 online and hybrid online/in-person programs are designed to meet working adult students where they are, academically and geographically. 精东影业鈥檚 rolling admissions calendar offers additional flexibility for students to register for classes on a schedule that fits their lives.

For more information on the partnership, visit excelsior.edu/partner/pitc-institute.

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Contacto para los medios de comunicaci贸n de la Universidad 精东影业:
Jason Bonafide,jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

Partnership contact:
Jane Kelley, Business Development Manager, jkelley@excelsior.edu, 518-332-5758

Acerca de la Universidad 精东影业

La Universidad 精东影业 es una instituci贸n de educaci贸n superior acreditada y sin 谩nimo de lucro dedicada a ayudar a los estudiantes a obtener sus t铆tulos y a avanzar en sus carreras profesionales. 精东影业 contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, formada y preparada para el mundo laboral, valorando el aprendizaje permanente y haciendo hincapi茅 en atender a personas que hist贸ricamente han estado infrarrepresentadas en la educaci贸n superior. Fundada en 1971 en Albany, Nueva York, 精东影业 se adapta a las circunstancias de los estudiantes 鈥攖anto acad茅micas como geogr谩ficas鈥� eliminando los obst谩culos que impiden alcanzar los objetivos educativos de los adultos que desean continuar su formaci贸n y completar sus estudios. Nuestros pilares son la innovaci贸n, la flexibilidad, la excelencia acad茅mica y la integridad.

精东影业 es una universidad sin 谩nimo de lucro con un campus principal en Albany, Nueva York, y un centro educativo en San Petersburgo, Florida. Los programas acad茅micos de la Universidad de 精东影业 est谩n registrados por el Departamento de Educaci贸n del Estado de Nueva York, y cuentan con una autorizaci贸n adicional para los programas impartidos en Florida.

Autorizada por la Comisi贸n de Educaci贸n Independiente del Departamento de Educaci贸n de Florida (n.潞 de licencia 12928).听Para obtener informaci贸n adicional sobre esta instituci贸n, p贸ngase en contacto con la Comisi贸n en la direcci贸n 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, o llame al n煤mero gratuito: (888)-224-6684.

Local middle-schooler funds a new听精东影业听scholarship with bake sale proceeds

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

Emma Kacani holds a plate of home-baked sheqerpare, her favorite traditional Albanian cookies.听

ALBANY, N.Y.听鈥� Eleven-year-old Emma Kacani has a taste for philanthropy.

With a little help from her aunts and grandmother, Emma baked trays of traditional Albanian desserts like sheqerpare, pengjir, ballokume, kadaif, and her 鈥渇amous peanut butter cookies鈥� to sell at the inaugural Capital Region Albanian Fest on julio 18 at Cook Park in Colonie. Her bake sale was a hit, and Emma had big plans for the profits.

The daughter of 精东影业 alumna and former employee Ermenita Kacani, Emma decided to reach out to her mom鈥檚 alma mater to give back to the local Albanian community.听Her听family contributed to Emma鈥檚 $600 in听bake sale proceeds,听raising a total of $1,000听to听create the Emma Kacani Ever Upward Scholarship. The fund supports听精东影业鈥檚 mission of educational access by providing grants for first-generation college students from the Capital Region who demonstrate financial need. The scholarship will be awarded during the current fiscal year.

鈥淓mma鈥檚 generosity and commitment to service are an inspiration, proving that meaningful philanthropy can begin at any age,鈥� said Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, 精东影业 chief diversity officer and founding director of the Center for Social Justice. 鈥淲hile her baking has brought joy to family, friends, and neighbors, her decision to establish this scholarship will have an even greater impact. The Emma Kacani Ever Upward Fund will create new opportunities for Capital Region learners and further 精东影业鈥檚 mission of expanding access to higher education.鈥�

鈥淚 wanted to do something good and helpful, and I wanted to share our culture through something everyone likes: food!鈥� said Emma Kacani. 鈥淭丑别re are people in our community who really want to go to college but need help, and I thought this bake sale was one way to make it happen.鈥�

Additional contributions can be made听to the Emma Kacani Ever Upward Scholarship by visiting听excelsior.edu/giving/ever-upward-giving.

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Media Contact 精东影业: 听
Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

Acerca de la Universidad 精东影业
La Universidad 精东影业 es una instituci贸n en l铆nea acreditada y sin 谩nimo de lucro dedicada a ayudar a los adultos a completar sus titulaciones y a avanzar en sus carreras profesionales. 精东影业 contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, formada y preparada para el mundo laboral, valorando el aprendizaje a lo largo de toda la vida y haciendo hincapi茅 en atender a personas que, hist贸ricamente, han estado infrarrepresentadas en la educaci贸n superior. Fundada en 1971, 精东影业 se adapta a la situaci贸n de los estudiantes 鈥攖anto acad茅mica como geogr谩ficamente鈥� eliminando los obst谩culos que se interponen en los objetivos educativos de los adultos que desean continuar su formaci贸n y obtener un t铆tulo. Nuestros pilares son la innovaci贸n, la flexibilidad, la excelencia acad茅mica y la integridad.

精东影业 es una universidad sin 谩nimo de lucro con un campus principal en Albany, Nueva York, y un centro educativo en San Petersburgo, Florida. Los programas acad茅micos de la Universidad de 精东影业 est谩n registrados por el Departamento de Educaci贸n del Estado de Nueva York, y cuentan con una autorizaci贸n adicional para los programas impartidos en Florida.

Autorizada por la Comisi贸n de Educaci贸n Independiente del Departamento de Educaci贸n de Florida (n.潞 de licencia 12928). Para obtener m谩s informaci贸n sobre esta instituci贸n, p贸ngase en contacto con la Comisi贸n en la direcci贸n 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, n煤mero gratuito: (888)-224-6684.

Ghost Students Are Real: How Higher Education Can Fight a Growing Fraud Threat

Publicado el by Lizz Petroski

Following up on their julio 2026 University Risk Management and Insurance Association (URMIA) webinar, 精东影业鈥檚 Lizz Petroski, executive director of student financial services, and Sarah Egerton, director of risk management and internal audit, published an article on URMIA Insights to examine the risk landscape of fraudulent 鈥済host student鈥� activity and share how cross-functional mitigation strategies can strengthen controls and reduce application fraud risk in higher education. The article, 鈥淕host Students Are Real: How Higher Education Can Fight a Growing Fraud Threat,鈥� discusses how 精东影业 addressed these issues and offers valuable lessons for risk managers, enrollment leaders, financial aid professionals, and institutional administrators across higher education.

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Career Spotlight: Patient Care Technician

Publicado el por Jenna Kerwin

If you want a health care career where you get to work with patients, but you鈥檙e not interested in nursing or becoming a physician, consider a career as a patient care technician (PCT). It鈥檚 one of the easiest ways to gain hands-on experience while working alongside other medical staff, and it allows you to make a difference in patient听care.

What Is a Patient Care Technician

A patient care technician鈥檚 main job is to provide basic care to patients; however, the term 鈥渂asic鈥� can be ambiguous. In fact, a patient care technician is responsible for ensuring the comfort, support, and nurturing of patients in a health care setting. These professionals monitor a patient鈥檚 health, assist with feeding and grooming, sanitize and clean rooms, and carry out more duties that are critical to positively impacting the lives of patients and their听families.

What Does a PCT Do?

While patient care technicians don鈥檛 diagnose conditions or create care plans, they work to ensure that patients are comfortable and safe. PCTs usually work under the supervision of a registered nurse and support other staff. Daily PCT job duties听include:

  • Collecting blood, urine, and stool samples for laboratory听testing
  • Measuring and recording vital听signs
  • Helping patients move between a bed, chair, wheelchair, and听bathroom
  • Performing medical tests and documenting the听results
  • Acquiring, distributing, and administering patient care听supplies
  • Listening to and noting patient听concerns
  • Assisting with meal service and monitoring patients鈥� food and fluid听intake
  • Performing safety checks and ensuring rooms are听clean
  • Escorting patients around the听hospital
  • Tracking patient progress during care, including physical听therapy
  • Offering emotional support to patients and their听families

In addition, PCTs may carry out other tasks, . For example, dialysis patient care technicians help patients who receive dialysis treatment by preparing treatment and monitoring patients during their sessions. Emergency department technicians support care teams by assisting with patient intake and rapid response tasks. And EKG or phlebotomy technicians assist with performing electrocardiograms or blood听draws.

Perspectivas de carrera

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, patient care technicians fall within the 鈥渘ursing assistant and orderlies鈥� category, and the 2025 median annual pay for these professionals was . The average salary for PCTs in julio 2026 was , according to Payscale. The BLS projects that about 203,300 jobs are projected to open each year for nursing assistants and orderlies over the next decade, with , on average, projected for all health care听occupations.

Start Your PCT Career with 精东影业

To become a PCT, you need the right balance of education and certification. 精东影业鈥檚 Associate in Science in Health Sciences program can prepare you for entry-level roles in health care, including as a patient care听technician.

精东影业鈥檚 program is specifically designed for busy professionals who want to advance their education while balancing other responsibilities, especially allied health professionals, people working in medical billing and coding, and veterans and active-duty service members with military medical training. And with 精东影业鈥檚 student support and Career Readiness resources, students can expect a helping hand every step of the听way.

However, you may not want to stop at your degree. According to the National Healthcareer Association鈥檚 2025 Industry Outlook, of employers require or encourage certification for PCTs. You can earn professional certification through a wide variety of online听programs.

If you鈥檙e ready to get started on your patient care technician career, consider speaking with an 精东影业 admissions advisor听today.

精东影业鈥檚 first doctoral program opens to enrollment

Publicado el por Jason Bonafide

ALBANY, N.Y. 鈥� 精东影业鈥檚 first doctoral degree program is now accepting applications, marking a historic milestone in the institution鈥檚 55-year history. The new Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program expands 精东影业鈥檚 academic offerings and provides experienced professionals with a pathway to the highest level of business education.听

Designed for working professionals, the DBA combines flexible online coursework with two brief, impactful in-person residencies. Hosted in 精东影业鈥檚 home cities of Albany, New York, and St. Petersburg, Florida, these immersive experiences ensure valuable face-to-face networking, mentoring, and research support opportunities. The program equips students with advanced knowledge of business theories, research methods, and evidence-based practices, preparing them to become leaders in their fields. Learners can choose from DBA concentrations in Cybersecurity Operations, Data Analytics, Enterprise Risk Management, Finance and Accounting, Healthcare Management, Organizational Leadership, and Strategic Sustainability.听

Founded in 1971 with a mission to expand access to education, 精东影业 has helped more than 200,000 students earn associate, bachelor鈥檚, and master鈥檚 degrees. The introduction of the DBA program represents the next step in 精东影业鈥檚 continued evolution.听听

鈥淥pening 精东影业鈥檚 first doctoral degree to enrollment is a landmark moment for 精东影业 and the learners we serve,鈥� said 精东影业 Provost and Chief Academic Officer Chris Cassirer. 鈥淪tudents can now pursue a complete educational journey at 精东影业, from certificates through a doctoral degree in business. The DBA reflects 精东影业鈥檚 commitment to lifelong learning and professional advancement, and it is only the first of several doctoral offerings we envision for the future.鈥澨�听

鈥淭丑别 DBA builds on 精东影业鈥檚 longstanding commitment to providing practical, career-focused education for working professionals,鈥� said Brian Allen, dean of 精东影业鈥檚 School of Business. 鈥淏y combining the flexibility of online learning with meaningful in-person collaboration and mentorship, the program prepares experienced professionals to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their workplaces and industries.鈥澨�听

Eligible applicants must hold a master鈥檚 degree from a regionally accredited institution, have a minimum of five years of professional experience, and have experience managing people and/or projects.听听

Applications are open now for the inaugural cohort of the DBA program, with courses beginning on Jan. 4, 2027. Interested students can complete an application and learn more at excelsior.edu.听听

Contacto con los medios de comunicaci贸n Universidad 精东影业:
Jason Bonafide jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446

ACERCA DE LA UNIVERSIDAD EXCELSIOR
La Universidad 精东影业 es una instituci贸n en l铆nea acreditada y sin 谩nimo de lucro centrada en ayudar a los adultos a completar sus t铆tulos y avanzar en sus carreras. 精东影业 contribuye al desarrollo de una sociedad diversa, educada y preparada para la carrera profesional valorando el aprendizaje permanente con 茅nfasis en servir a individuos hist贸ricamente subrepresentados en la educaci贸n superior. Fundada en 1971, 精东影业 va al encuentro de los estudiantes all铆 donde se encuentran - acad茅mica y geogr谩ficamente - eliminando los obst谩culos a los objetivos educativos de los adultos que persiguen la formaci贸n continua y la obtenci贸n de un t铆tulo. Nuestros pilares incluyen la innovaci贸n, la flexibilidad, la excelencia acad茅mica y la integridad.

精东影业 is a not-for-profit university with a main campus in Albany, New York, and an educational site in St. Petersburg, Florida. 精东影业鈥檚 academic programs are registered by the New York State Education Department, with additional licensing for Florida-based programs.听

Licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, Florida Department of Education (License No. 12928). Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 325 West Gaines Street, Suite 1414, Tallahassee, FL 323099-0400, toll-free number: (888)-224-6684.听