Friday, November 16, 2012

Fully Online Master's Degree in School Media

Earn Your Master's Degree in School Media from UWG|Online
The online Master of Education with a Major in Media (School Library Track) degree is designed to prepare educators to become progressive, innovative, academically grounded instructional technology leaders; Enable teachers and school library media specialists to successfully integrate technology into their learning environments; Build and enhance skills in research and program evaluation to support instructional growth and improvement; Pioneer innovative delivery options to maximize educational experiences; Cultivate diversity of ideas, values, and persons responsive to changing needs and technologies; and promote the advancement of learning through scholarship and service.
The School Library Media track also leads to Georgia certification in school library media. Students who have already completed a master's degree in any field can complete the school library media certification program.
Accreditation:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).  The College of Education at the University of West Georgia is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
Credit & Transfer:
Total semester hours required to earn a degree: 36
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: 6
Program website and contacts:
The Dept of Educational Innovation Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
Dr. Barbara Kawulich (Chair) bkawulic@westga.edu 678-839-5259
June Barry (Pre-enrollment contact) jbarry@westga.edu 678-839-6558
UWG|Online website for more information:

Monday, November 5, 2012

Fully Online Master's Degree in Computer Science

Earn Your Master's Degree in Applied Computer Science from UWG|Online

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjqJYW2OC3lZ8od08JQ8PpJt39YhsrLF-JVnK3hODvp77EpjCpgfRUCnUvPgIx7M3EyD8d1dhS4ofWlJ5A5SuEAnJpoTfE754mQL0oDz41Uu-E_sS9ynroybmKHKRhggk_TATX9Ut7j4/s1600/UWGOnline_CS_image1.jpg The Master of Science in Applied Computer Science degree is a professional program that provides individuals holding an undergraduate degree in any discipline the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in the exciting and dynamic field of computer science and information technology.

All instruction and course work is delivered 100% online via the Internet using a variety of asynchronous and synchronous distance learning technologies.
 
Coursework completion is possible in as little as 24 months. Degrees are conferred in May, August, and December.

Visit the Online M.S. in Applied Computer Science website for detailed information on how to get started today!
Accreditation:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Credit & Transfer:
Total hours required to earn a degree: 36 (semester hours)
This program does not accept transfer credits. 
Program website and contacts:
The Dept of Computer Science Website includes a program information, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
Dr. Adel Abunawass (Pre-enrollment advisor) cs@westga.edu 678-839-6485 
Projected Offerings:
Current information on projected course offerings can be found on the program's Online M.S. in Applied Computer Science curriculum website.
UWG|Online website for more information:

Friday, October 5, 2012

Fully Online Bachelor's Degree in Criminology

Earn Your Bachelor's Degree in Criminology from UWG|Online
The online Bachelor of Science in Criminology is based on the philosophy of a liberal arts education, grounded in social science methodologies.  The focus for undergraduate students is to achieve mastery of basic academic competencies and an expertise in the field.  Faculty seek opportunities to involve students in a range of professional activities to facilitate their entry into the job market or further educational pursuits.
The faculty of the Criminology program are committed to provide quality instruction to students on subjects that fall within the scope of the discipline, conduct research that contributes to the body of knowledge in the field,and engage in service that allows practical application of our knowledge and skills.
The Criminology degree consists of 78 semester hours of approved coursework beyond the core area of the bachelor's degree. Eighteen hour is part of the last area in the core (major-related), while twenty-seven hours are the major courses.  Then there are 12 upper division criminology credit hours, and another nine hours are for upper division supporting classes.  The last 12 hours are electives that must be taken to fulfill the degree requirements.  To see a list of the courses that require these 78 hours, click here. To finish the Bachelor of Science in Criminology, you must have 120 semester credit hours.  The other 42 hours not included are core area classes, which can be found here

For new college students, degree completion is possible in as little as 3 years (15 credit hours per 3-month semester).  Undecided or transfer students who have completed basic core courses could complete the major courses in as little as four semesters (15 credit hours per each semester). Degrees are conferred in May, August and December. Coursework is available 100% online; required orientation can be done on campus or virtually.
Accreditation:
Program accreditation: University of West Georgia is accredited by SACS.
Credit & Transfer:
Total hours required to earn a degree: 120 (semester hours)
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: 90
Program website and contacts:
The Dept of Criminology Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
Dr. David Jenks (Pre-enrollment advisor) djenks@westga.edu 678-839-6327 
UWG|Online website for more information:

Friday, September 21, 2012

UWG|Online: Programs Highly Ranked

UWG|Online Programs Recognized Nationally with High Rankings from U.S. News


U.S. News & World Report, the preeminent provider of college rankings, released their 2013 Online Education rankings which are based on certain quality aspects for top online programs. The forward-looking University of West Georgia ranked highly—in the Top 100—in the areas of faculty credentials and training, student services and technology, and student engagement and accreditation.

UWG’s 2013 
U.S. News
Quality Aspects Ranking
Top Online Programs
Bachelor's
Business
Education
Nursing
Faculty Credentials and Training
#27
--
#51
--
Student Engagement and Accreditation
--
#18
#55
#14
Student Services and Technology
#26
#118
#83
#56

Overall rankings also showed that the University of West Georgia is recognized as one of the South’s top universities—ranking at #46 as a public university and #91 overall as a regional university (both public and private).

This ranking is a first for the Level VI SACS-accredited institution, located an hour west of Atlanta, GA, which just this July conferred its first Ph.D. degree in Psychology, adding to its already robust doctoral degree programs.

“We are very pleased that the latest U.S. News rankings place UWG among the best regional universities and the best public universities in the South,” said Dr. Beheruz N. Sethna, president of UWG. “It is a just tribute to the wonderful credentials and work of our excellent faculty and staff, and worthy recognition for our wonderful students. I am confident that UWG will continue its journey onward and upward.”

U.S. News & World Report also included UWG in its nation-wide “Best Grad School Rankings,” which highlighted UWG as the #161 “Best Education School” and its Nursing program #357. UWG also ranked #309 nationally in “Best Undergraduate Business Programs.”

This announcement falls on the heels of UWG’s Dr. Greg Dixon, associate professor of political science, being ranked #12 in the nation by RateMyProfessor.com.

For more information, including methodology, visit the U.S. News & World Report’s UWG rankings page.

 

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

 

 

Friday, September 14, 2012

UWG|Online: Professor Receives High Praise From Students

UWG Professor Ranked #12 in the U.S. by RateMyProfessor.com


Based on student input, RateMyProfessors.com ranked Dr. Greg Dixon No. 12 out of 1.7 million professors from 7,500 colleges and universities.

Dixon, who teaches both online and on campus, is assistant professor of political science and planning at the University of West Georgia and received an overall quality rating of 4.8 out of 5 possible points given by students.

Dr. Greg Dixon“Whether teaching online, in the classroom or across the globe, Dr. Dixon exemplifies the excellence we see in faculty at the University of West Georgia—engaged scholars, teachers and learners. RateMyProfessors.com just handed him the bragging rights, too,” said Dr. N. Jane McCandless, dean of the College of Social Sciences and professor of sociology.

Dixon teaches courses including American Foreign Policy, International Organization, International Law, and International Conflict and Conflict Management, as well as the introductory International Relations course. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Arizona in 2007.

One of the student raters had this to say about Dixon: “Probably the best prof I had at UWG. Smart to where [it’s] a little frightening. He isn't trying to be smart he just really really is. Take him and you will know what I mean. Six months after you are done with his class, you suddenly start to see that as much as you thought you learned, you learned more.”

Dixon’s research focuses on international conflict management and international institutions. His current projects explore dispute settlement in the World Trade Organization as well as the ways in which domestic institutions influence international behavior. Dr. Dixon is affiliated with the interdisciplinary Global Studies Program at UWG and is a member of the Graduate Faculty. He serves as the advisor to the Pi Sigma Alpha and Pi Alpha Alpha honor societies and the Campus Libertarian, Tau Kappa Epsilon, and Campus NORML student organizations.

He laughs good-naturedly when asked about the “hotness” rating also given by students. “It’s flattering, but I’m not quite sure what to make of it.”

“Student feedback, whether from our formal end of course surveys or anecdotal sources, is an important part of keeping connected with our students,” said Dixon. “My sincere thanks to the students who took the time and effort to go online to RateMyProfessor.com. I accept this recognition on behalf of the whole Department of Political Science and Planning rather than as an individual achievement. We work very hard to provide a rigorous and rewarding environment in the classroom. My rating is reflective of the commitment to teaching excellence exhibited by my colleagues, the College of Social Sciences and the University across the board.”

Find out for yourself why freethinkers and true adventurers are broadening their horizons and heading West.

 

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

 

 

Friday, September 7, 2012

UWG|Online: Accredited Programs

Accredited UWG|Online Programs Ensure Degree Credibility


Did you realize that there is a difference between an institution being accredited and a program being accredited?

One of the best things about earning a valuable degree with UWG|Online is that not only is it backed by the University of West Georgia, a respected, SACS accredited, brick and mortar institution with over a century of proven innovation and academic excellence, most programs are also accredited within their respective field.

Depending on the program, you can earn your degree online, face-to-face, or in a hybrid setting. Rest assured that you are being taught by experienced, well-credentialed experts, which will provide you with the confidence that your program accredited degree will be recognized by other institutions and potential employers.


UWG|Online – Affordable Quality. Convenience. Credibility.
That's what sets our online programs apart.


Accrediting Agency

University of West Georgia
 
Nursing

WebMBA

Education

Music


Thursday, August 9, 2012

UWG|Online: Student ID Cards

UWG|Online Students Can Obtain a Wolves Card

Many may think that student IDs are only for campus students but that is not the case. UWG|Online students can obtain a UWG Wolves card as well and enjoy the many benefits they carry.

The Wolves Card is the official University of West Georgia identification card. It allows students to: check out books at the Ingram Library; access the Campus Center fitness area; access Health Services; obtain a parking tag; and receive free or discounted prices to plays, museums, sporting events, and concerts. Additional benefits may be found at: Wolves Card Benefits.

UWG|Online students registered in online courses only, not attending classes at the Carrollton campus or Newnan Center, are eligible to obtain their Wolves Card via mail by completing these steps:
  1. Complete the request form and fax the form, along with an enlarged legible photocopy of your driver's license, state-issued identification card, or passport, to 678-839-5073.
  2. Email a current photo (800x600 pixels) of yourself to theCard@westga.edu . (See guidelines here).
  3. Allow at least two weeks for processing of your ID.
  4. This is a onetime only process.  Your ID will stay active as long as you are enrolled with the University of West Georgia.
  5. This form is only for distance students who are unable to come to campus to have their pictures taken for their UWG Student Identification cards.
  6. Make sure the mailing address listed is correct.  The Wolves Card Office is not responsible for IDs that are delayed, damaged, undeliverable or returned by the post office.
If you have any problems or questions, call the Wolves Card Office at 678-839-6525, Monday – Friday from 8am to 5pm.

UWG|Online students are a vital part of the UWG family and obtaining a Wolves Card is just one way to enjoy the same benefits as campus students while identifying with the "pack."

Still have questions? Email us at: online@westga.edu or call 1-855-933-UWGO (8946)

Credibility. Affordable Quality. Convenience. That's what sets UWG|Online programs apart. 

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

 

 

Thursday, August 2, 2012

UWG|Online: Online Learning

Is Online Learning Right for You?

Many students prefer online learning. They enjoy taking greater control of their studies and working at their own pace to meet deadlines rather than attending scheduled classes. Some report that online discussions are more interesting than classroom discussions, because the participants reflect more carefully on what they write and because discussions are less likely to be dominated by one or two individuals. For others, online classes are the perfect way to combine higher education with work, family, or other responsibilities. Interviews and surveys show that high-performing online learners share some important characteristics. Students are most likely to succeed in online courses when they:
  • have reliable access to an Internet-connected computer.
  • know how to navigate websites, manage email, work with files, and do other basic computer tasks.
  • can organize their own time to complete assignments and meet deadlines.
  • participate actively in online discussions.
  • are comfortable asking for help or clarification when needed.
  • are prepared to work as hard online as they would in a face-to-face class.

On the other hand, online learning is not for everyone. Some students find it difficult to manage their time and effort without the regular face-to-face contact of the traditional classroom. Others feel that they learn better by hearing lectures than by reading. Some are unprepared for the amount of reading and writing required by online assignments and discussions. Use the SmarterMeasure Online Education Readiness tool to assess your readiness, your goals, and your learning preferences.

If you are undecided, talk to a UWG Online representative and to your family and friends. Will UWG|Online help you achieve your academic goals? Will you have the time, technical resources, and moral support you need? If so, UWG|Online might be one of the most rewarding experiences of your educational career.

If you still have questions about online learning at UWG, check out our Online Student Guide for more information about technical requirements, resources,  and related student services? UWG Online Student Guide

 

You can also review our UWG Online Orientation for even more insight into what online classes are like here at UWG.


Also check out a demo course Go to http://westga.view.usg.edu/

user name = guest_user
password = guest

Ready to get started? Talk to a UWG Online representative


Credibility. Affordable Quality. Convenience. That's what sets UWG|Online programs apart. 
 

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

 

 

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

UWG|Online: Student Services

UWG|Online offers unsurpassed support to its students



Our UWG|Online Student Services Team is dedicated to helping students succeed in online courses.

The Student Services Team is here to help with any questions or concerns students may have with their online classes. The Student Services webpage provides excellent tutorials that will help students with being able to use the learning management system properly and successfully. The webpage also provides links to services and downloads that will help online students better succeed in their online class.

Visit the Student Services webpage to experience all the great resources available to UWG|Online Students.


The UWG|Online Student Services Team also offers direct support through their helpline. The helpline is available Monday - Friday between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm at 678-839-6248 or 1-855-933-UWGO (8946).

For assistance not within normal operating hours (8am-5pm), please contact the 24/7 Online Support Center at 1-866-588-5293 or at http://help8.view.usg.edu.

Finally, the Student Services Team has a strong social media presence that helps students stay up-to-date and in-the-know with important information, tips, and reminders.

Like them on Facebook: UWGO Together - Facebook Community

Follow them on Twitter: UWGO Together Twitter Community

Follow their Blog: UWGO Together Blog

Visit their Wiki: UWGO|Online Student Services Wiki site


UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

UWG|Online: Military Options

UWG|Online is dedicated to meeting the educational needs of our military and their dependents


UWG|Online is proud to support our military and offers several online programs to meet the needs of military veterans, active service members, dependents and survivors as they pursue their educational goals or make the transition into a different career.

We offer many opportunities and resources to our veterans and military affiliated students.

For a complete list of online degrees and offerings, visit UWG|Online
For University of West Georgia Veteran Resources, visit:

The University of West Georgia is also proud to be an affiliate institution and administrator of the University System of Georgia's eCore Program, which provides the opportunity for military veterans, active service members, dependents and survivors to complete their first two years of their collegiate careers in an online environment.

eCore This is where your future begins...

 

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

 

 

Thursday, June 21, 2012

UWG|Online: UWG’s online eCore program earns an “A”

Online eCore program earns Georgia top honors from U.S. Chamber of Commerce


Citing the state-wide online eCore program that UWG administers, Georgia has been honored as one of only two states to receive a perfect score of 100 in the category of “Innovation: Online Learning," according to a recent U.S. Chamber of Commerce report. The report goes on to list Georgia as one of only six public higher-education schools to receive an “A” in online learning. More about eCore.

The report also references the Georgia OnMyLine portal in which UWG participates, as well as the fact that the USG has articulated clear goals for online learning efforts at its public institutions.

According to the report,
"In our analysis, Georgia … emerged as leaders in promoting online higher education. [Georgia] had set concrete goals for developing their online learning offerings. The University System of Georgia’s strategic plan called on state institutions to increase access by boosting the number of credits awarded by distance education, and it has set targets for 2011 and 2012…”
“Georgia ... also developed easy-to-use resources for students looking to access online courses and degrees. Georgia’s “ONmyLINE” system provides students with access to more than 100 associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs that are available through public institutions in the state, as well as thousands of courses that are open to on-campus students in search of individual courses. Georgia’s eCore program allows beginning students to take their entire first two years of coursework—the core courses required of all Georgia graduates—completely online…”
Leaders and Laggards: A State-by-State Report Card on Public Postsecondary Education, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2012
For more information or to participate in any of these recognized programs, visit any of the links below.

eCore This is where your future begins...
UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!
Georgia OnMyLine Bringing Georgia's public higher education straight to your home, your computer, your fingertips.

 

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

UWG|Online: Frequently Asked Questions

UWG|Online: Frequently Asked Questions


Most people considering online classes usually have some fairly common questions. This blog will provide some answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Students admitted to UWG's online programs learn the same material and benefit from the same rigorous and high-quality learning experiences as campus-based students. They also enjoy frequent interactions with the instructor and other classmates.
You may never see or meet your online instructor, but you’ll have even more access than you would in a classroom setting. Instead of being limited to asking questions during class or office hours, online students have direct access to instructors via email, message boards, or phone.
  • Online courses often require at least as much, if not more, time and commitment than traditional courses.
  • They often require far more reading, as much of the information is text based.
  • With the increased freedom and flexibility comes responsibility. Without the structure of regular class meetings, it will be up to you to stay motivated, pace yourself, and keep up with assignments.
  • Successful online students are also not afraid to proactively seek solutions to technical or logistical challenges or speak up and ask for assistance when needed.
  • In some cases, proctored exams may be required but will be made available at a site convenient to where you live.
Online courses can be a good choice for those who need flexibility, those who work best when given time to review content and post thoughtful responses to questions posed, and those who are self-disciplined.

UWG Online: 
Call: 678-839-6248 (M-F 8am-5pm)
or 1-855-933-UWGO (8946) (M-F 8am-5pm)
E-mail: online@westga.edu

 
Or visit our website:
UWG|Online - Go West From Anywhere!

 

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

UWG|Online: What is eCore?

UWG|Online: What is eCore?

 


At the University of West Georgia, students can pursue their educational goals though online classes offered though both UWG|Online and eCore. But what is eCore and how does it differ from UWG|Online?

eCore - short for electronic core-curriculum - allows University System of Georgia (USG) students the opportunity to complete or supplement the first two years of their collegiate careers in an online environment. eCore is a convenient and adaptable option for either getting started in college or for resuming college after a break or pause.

eCore offers courses in English, mathematics, science, history, and the social sciences. Courses are designed, developed, taught and supported by faculty and staff from the USG and are taught entirely online, except for one, but no more than two, proctored exams.

The main difference between eCore and UWG|Online is that eCore is not a formal degree program, but rather offers classes related to core curriculum. The core curriculum primarily consists of courses required during the first two years of college for a given degree.

Students at UWG can enjoy the benefits of both eCore and UWG|Online and how the two work together to allow them to obtain their degrees.
For information on eCore and UWG|Online, visit the links below:

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

eCore Go West From Anywhere!

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

UWG|Online: Amazing Things Happen When You Go West

Amazing Things Happen When You Go West and now, with a variety of quality online opportunities, you Can Go West From Anywhere!  

 

You might have heard that amazing things happen when you Go West. It’s true! We’ve got students performing biomedical research, outranking private university debate teams, studying trees to evaluate historical sites, and submitting winning tee shirt designs for the Peachtree Road Race. They’re studying overseas, developing local outreach programs, and building robots.

Our faculty and staff are doing some pretty amazing things too. They’re visiting far-flung reaches of the world to give lectures, provide medical services, and educate the less fortunate. They’re publishing books, advising small businesses, and excavating archaeological sites.

And don’t get us started on our alumni. They’re newscasters, authors, international business leaders and teachers of the year. They’re Hollywood makeup artists, entrepreneurs, critical care nurses, and everything in between.

And you can join them. Whether you're fresh out of high school, still in high school and wanting to work ahead, an adult learner, military personnel, or a veteran looking to get started or complete a degree, we have online options that can help you achieve your dreams.

Check out one of UWG's many success stories. 

Your story can begin online with UWG|Online. 

Get started today!

UWG|Online Go West From Anywhere!

 

 

Thursday, May 31, 2012

UWG|Online Spotlight: Certificate Programs

UWG|Online Certificate Programs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stand Out in Your Current Career or Start a New One!

At UWG|Online, we’re committed to helping you succeed. Our respected, experienced faculty can supply you with the up-to-date knowledge and cutting edge skills required to excel in your chosen field.

Post-Master's Certificate in Health Systems Leadership

The School of Nursing post-master's certificate programs are designed for master's prepared nurses who desire further education for roles in nursing and offers two different tracks of study:

The Leader/Manager Role track is designed to increase knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a variety of nursing leadership positions within the evolving healthcare environment.

The Clinical Nurse Leader track prepares nurses for the CNL role as developed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN, 2003). A CNL is a generalist who provides and manages care at the point of service by coordinating, delegating, and supervising care activities provided by the health care team, which includes licensed nurses, technicians, and other professionals. The CNL assumes accountability for client care outcomes by assimilating evidence-based information and using it to design, implement, and evaluate care.
For more details please visit: UWG|Online Post-Master's Certificate in Health Systems Leadership

Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education

The School of Nursing post-master's certificate program in education is designed for master's prepared nurses who desire further education for roles in teaching.

The program of study requires 10 credit hours and addresses innovations in curriculum, instructional skills and strategies, the development and use of educational technology, and educational assessment and evaluation. Students develop expertise in health education and promotion, patient education, professional development, or college/university teaching. Graduates meet the educational requirements to sit for the national certification examination as a nurse educator.
For more details please visit: UWG|Online Post-Master's Certificate in Nursing Education

Post-Baccalaureate Initial Certification in Media (School Library Media

The online Add-On and Initial Certification in School Library Media program is designed to prepare educators in the following ways:

  •     Preparing progressive, innovative, academically grounded school library specialists and instructional technology leaders;
  •     Enabling teachers and school library media specialists to successfully integrate technology into their learning environments to support student learning;
  •     Building and enhancing skills in research and program evaluation to support instructional growth and improvement;
  •     Pioneering innovative delivery options to maximize educational experiences;
  •     Cultivating diversity of ideas, values, and persons responsive to changing needs and technologies; and
  •     Promoting the advancement of learning through scholarship and service.
  For more details please visit: UWG|Online Post-Baccalaureate Initial Certification in Media (School Library Media)
Accreditations:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).  The College of Education at the University of West Georgia is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
Credit & Transfer:
Total semester hours required to earn a degree: varies
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: varies
Program websites and contacts:
The School of Nursing Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
Ms. Alyicia Richards (Pre-enrollment advisor) alyrich@westga.edu 678-839-5115

The Dept of Educational Innovation Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
June Barry(Pre-enrollment contact) jbarry@westga.edu 678-839-5259
UWG|Online website for more information:

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

UWG|Online Degrees Spotlight: Specialist Degrees

Enhance Your Career in Education

In just a few semesters, you can prove your passion for special education, school media, or instructional technology with an Ed.S. degree that sets you apart from the crowd.


Specialist in Education with a Major in Special Education

The EdS-SPED degree prepares candidates to refine their professional knowledge, skills and dispositions for improving practice through the application of research constructs and the communication of new knowledge. Individuals with a variety of backgrounds and interests in special education can benefit from this program since it is not restricted to a single group or certification area within the field of special education. For more details about the program please visit: UWG|Online Specialist Programs

Specialist in Education with a Major in Media (School Media)

The purpose of the Ed.S. program in School library Media is to provide superior student-focused education that is personally relevant and intellectually challenging. For more details about the program please visit: UWG|Online Specialist Programs

Specialist in Education with a Major in Media (Instructional Technology)

The purpose of the Ed.S. program in Instructional Technology is to provide superior student-focused education that is personally relevant and intellectually challenging.  For more details about the program please visit: UWG|Online Specialist Programs
Accreditation:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). 
Credit & Transfer:
Total semester hours required to earn a degree: 27
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: varies
Program website and contacts:
Dr. Ravic Ringlaben (Pre-enrollment advisor) rringlab@westga.edu 678-839-6123

The Dept of Educational Innovation Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
June Barry(Pre-enrollment contact) jbarry@westga.edu 678-839-5259
UWG|Online website for more information:

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

UWG|Online Degrees Spotlight: Master of Education with a Major in Special Education and Teaching

Master of Education with a Major in Special Education & Teaching (General Curriculum) 

The Department of Collaborative Support and Intervention in the College of Education at the University of West Georgia (COE-UWG) offers the Master of Education program in Special Education (MEd-SPED). Candidates who successfully complete this program and other requirements of the state certification agency (PSC) will be eligible for Georgia Level 5 certification. Teachers with certification in this area are infield to teach students in grades P-12 with disabilities who receive instruction using the general education curriculum and participate in the general statewide assessment, as well as students in special education preschool (ages 3-5 years). This program includes the opportunity for candidates to earn their first clear, renewable, professional teaching certificate (initial certification option).

The Master of Education program in Special Education is a minimum of 36 graduate credit hours plus an exit exam/Electronic Portfolio. The 12 classes in the MEd program include an educational research class, 9 other required classes, and 2 electives. Electives are selected in conjunction with the student's assigned advisor. A practicum is not required for candidates who enter with clear, renewable, professional certification in an area of special education.

Candidates who enter without clear, renewable, professional certification in an area of special education may need up to 21 additional graduate credit hours (or the equivalent) in prerequisites and corequisites (based on evaluation of transcripts). Prerequisites are taken prior to the 12 classes that are part of the MEd program, while corequisites may be interspersed with those classes. Two full terms of practica are required for candidate in the initial certification option, those obtaining their first clear, renewable, professional teaching certificate through completion of this program and the required certification tests. Candidates who have clear, renewable, professional certification in some area other than special education typically would have fewer classes to take beyond the 12 MEd classes, but may need to take some prerequisites and/or corequisites and would have to complete one term of practicum. There are some options for satisfying some of the prerequisites and corequisites aside from UWG graduate classes. An analysis of each candidate's transcript is performed to determine any requirements related to certification in addition to the 12 MEd classes.

Candidates may start any term, but need to work closely with their advisors for most effective scheduling of classes. Most of the 12 MEd classes are offered twice per year. Advance application for the practica is required.
Accreditation:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). 
Credit & Transfer:
Total semester hours required to earn a degree: 36+
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: 6
Program website and contacts:
Dr. Meg Cooper (Pre-enrollment advisor) mcooper@westga.edu  678-839-6158
UWG|Online website for more information:

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

UWG|Online Degrees Spotlight: Master of Education with a Major in Media (Instructional Technology)

Master of Education with a Major in Media
(Instructional Technology) 


The online Master of Education with a Major in Media (Instructional Technology Track) degree is designed to prepare progressive, innovative, academically grounded instructional technology leaders; Enable teachers and school library media specialists to successfully integrate technology into their learning environments; Build and enhance skills in research and program evaluation to support instructional growth and improvement; Pioneer innovative delivery options to maximize educational experiences; Cultivate diversity of ideas, values, and persons responsive to changing needs and technologies; and promote the advancement of learning through scholarship and service.

The Instructional Technology track program consists of 36 semester hours of approved coursework beyond the bachelor's degree. Twenty-seven semester hours are drawn from media and instructional technology courses, and 9 hours are taken in psychology, curriculum, and research. Students must have a bachelor's degree to be admitted to the program. Those entering with T-4 Georgia certification exit with T-5 certification but no new certification area or endorsement is added.
Accreditation:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).  The College of Education at the University of West Georgia is accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).
Credit & Transfer:
Total semester hours required to earn a degree: 36
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: 6
Program website and contacts:
The Dept of Educational Innovation Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
Dr. Barbara Kawulich (Chair) bkawulic@westga.edu 678-839-5259
June Barry (Pre-enrollment contact) jbarry@westga.edu 678-839-6558
UWG|Online website for more information:

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

UWG|Online Degrees Spotlight: Master of Science in Nursing

Master of Science in Nursing

The School of Nursing at the University of West Georgia offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree with role options in either education or health systems leadership.
The mission of the MSN Program is to offer high quality graduate education that:




• Prepares registered nurses for advanced practice roles in diverse health care settings
• Provides regional outreach related to graduate nursing education through off-campus programs
• Provides a caring, supportive, personal environment for learning that:
o Affirms the holistic nature of individuals
o Reflects caring as the essence of nursing
o Expects that nurses use critical thinking in decision making
o Supports evidence-based practice
o Utilizes disciplinary rigor to support MSN student progress toward assuming leadership and education roles.

Coursework is provided online (95%) and face-to-face (F2F). Typically, there are three F2F meetings per semester. A F2F orientation is also required at the start of the program.
Accreditation:
University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).  The Master of Science in Nursing Program at the University of West Georgia is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Credit & Transfer:
Total semester hours required to earn a degree: 36
Maximum Hours Transferable into program: 6
Program website and contacts:
The School of Nursing Website includes a program handbook, directory of instructors and their credentials, as well as other vital information.
Ms. Alycia Richards (Pre-enrollment advisor) alyrich@westga.edu 678-839-5115
UWG|Online website for more information: