Tips for Getting A's in College

Good grades are not always ear ned through natural talent or endless hours of studying. Students who are successful in college are self-disciplined and hard workers. They understand the importance of being organized and managing th eir time effectively. There are ways to get through your college classes with above average grades a nd without undue social sacrifice. These tips will help you improve your grades with the least amoun t of effort. The tips do require discipline; however, if you follow the tips, you will find that you r grades improve and you'll be enjoying college more than ever.

Get your computer ready for school. Before starting classes make sure you have t he necessary programs installed in your computer so your class experience will be more smooth. Onlin e universities typically make many of the programs they recommend available for downloading from th e school's website. Make sure your computer is operating well and has enough RAM to handle multimedi a presentations and video lectures.

Keep the course syllabus handy. The syllabus for your online course serves as a guide to an online course's overview of course objectives, activities, teacher expectations, and stu dent responsibilities. Besides providing a course description, the syllabus contains the course cale nder, class participation and grading considerations, the schedule of topics, readings, activities, and assignments, and other information essential to your success in the course. The syllabus also p rovides an explanation of course geography and procedures: how the online classroom is organized; ho w students should proceed each week for class activities; how to label assignments sent by e-mail; w here to post materials in the classroom; any special instructions, so keeping it at hand throughout the course will help you stay on track.

Be interested in your classes. When you're interested in something, you think ab out what's being said. You validate it in your head and consider it useful to remember. Fake an inte rest in your college classes if you have to. You have to create a desire to know the information. Wh en it comes time to do your assignment or write a test, you'll be surprised at how much you've retai ned.

Get to know your classmates. Be an active participant in your school's online di scussion forum. Some online schools, such as the University of Phoenix Online, believe that interaction among online students is very important for a positive online learning environment and assign group projects to foster social networking and facilitate learning. If you find yourself falling behind, fellow online students are extremely helpful in catching you up on the class material. As well, don't forget that the virtual classroom environment provides a great opportunity to network with a full class of people who will s hare your profession when you graduate.

Help others. Frequently you'll think you understand a concept, but the only way to prove it is to explain it to someone who doesn't. You will be forced to fill any gaps in your und erstanding and you'll gain confidence and motivation. This is an excellent way to check how well you 're prepared for a midterm or final exam.

Summarise Your Class Notes. Rather than trying to read over reams of class notes and textbooks, it is more effective to summarise your notes and then to read over the summaries. Yo u have already learnt this information, but study cements the knowledge into your short-term memory so that you can easily retrieve the information in the examination.

Review your notes every two weeks. When done properly, you will be surprised how little you have to study for tests. It has to do with putting information into your long term memor y. Two weeks is the most effective period between first learning the information and storing it in l ong term memory. If you learn it in your online class and then right before exams, you're only stori ng the information in short term memory, twice. If you review your notes two weeks after it's taught , you reduce last minute cramming and you might even remember the information after graduation.

The College Network

Online

Start your nursing career with The College Network. Earn your NLNAC/CCNE Accredited nursing degree online from one of our partner universities: Regis University, Indiana State University, Angelo State University and more at 1/2 the cost and time of traditional universities with no campus attendance, no wait list and local clinicals.

Programs:

• LPN/LVN to RN - AS in Nursing (Licensed LPN/LVNs only)
• LPN/LVN to RN - BS in Nursing - Indiana St. - (Licensed LPN/LVNs only)
• Paramedic to RN

Kaplan University

Campus

Advance your career and get the distinct competitive advantage you need with an online degree from Kaplan University. And do it without missing a day of work.

Programs:

• MS in Nursing
• RN to MS in Nursing
• RN to BS in Nursing

Campus Locations:

Fort Lauderdale

Walden University

Online

Balance your personal and professional commitments while earning a respected Ph.D., master's degree, or bachelor's degree online at Walden University. Programs offered in management, education, psychology and health and human services.

Programs:

• B.S. in Nursing (BSN)
• Post-Masters Certificates in Nursing - Nursing Education
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.) - General

University of Phoenix

Campus

As the largest private university in North America, University of Phoenix has more than 200 locations, and is available online in most countries around the world. Whether you're seeking a college degree at an associate's, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, we can help you reach your academic goal—and sooner than you might think.

Programs:

• M.S. in Nursing
• MS in Nursing (RN Required)
• BS in Nursing (RN Required)

Campus Locations:

San Francisco
Bakersfield
Online
Livermore
Costa Mesa
San Jose
Murrieta
Lathrop
Salida
Pasadena
Oakland
Los Angeles
Fairfield
Ontario
Rancho Cordova
Diamond Bar
Sacramento
Elk Grove
Gardena
Fresno
Lancaster
Roseville
Woodland Hills
Palm Desert

Roseman University

Online

The USN accelerated online program offers accelerated nursing education that allows you to earn a BSN in just 14 months. This new program blends the personal convenience of online course study with enriching clinical learning in Henderson, Nevada.

Programs:

• Accelerated BSN

University of St. Mary

Online

Give your career a boost with University of Saint Mary. We offer online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels to help make your educational and professional goals a reality.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Kaplan College - KHE

Campus

Don't wait another day to take the next step forward in your career. Kaplan College can give you the real-world knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.

Programs:

• Diploma: Vocational Nursing
• Diploma: Nurse Assistant Training Program
• Diploma: Patient Care Assistant/Technician

Campus Locations:

San Diego
Vista
Chula Vista
Bakersfield
Stockton

American Career College

Campus

American Career College (ACC) offers hands-on training that will prepare students for careers in the healthcare industry at three campuses in Los Angeles, Ontario, and Orange County, California. ACC's programs combine classroom lectures and hands-on training to prepare students for a Diploma or Associate of Occupational Science degree.

Programs:

• Vocational Nursing
• Medical Assistant
• Associate of Occupational Science in Respiratory Therapy

Campus Locations:

Anaheim
Los Angeles
Ontario

Independence University

Campus

You can advance your career 24/7 with online education at Independence University, your proven partner with over 30 years of experience in delivering quality distance education right to our students. Our programs are designed to allow you to continue working and earning as you pursue your online degree.

From associate's and bachelor's to master's degrees in health education and business, with Independence University you can achieve greater success through distance learning programs that suit your busy schedule, with experienced, student-oriented staff to assist you throughout your distance education.

Programs:

• BS - Nursing
• MS - Nursing Administration
• AS - Occupational Studies in Medical Specialties

Campus Locations:

Salt Lake City

California College San Diego

Campus

California College San Diego (CCSD)offers degree programs in Medical Specialties, Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare Administration, Business Management and Accounting, Computer Technology and Networking, Computer Programming, and Computer Science. Online programs are offered by our affiliated college, Stevens-Henager College, Salt Lake City/Murray.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science Completion in Nursing (Online)
• Master of Science in Nursing Education (Online)
• Bachelor of Science Completion in Nursing Administration

Campus Locations:

San Diego
National City
San Marcos

Career Colleges of America

Campus

Get your career started with Career Colleges of America. We have four campuses in the Los Angeles area offering a wide variety of allied health training programs.

Programs:

• Vocational Nurse
• Nurse Assistant
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

San Bernardino
Los Angeles
Gardena
South Gate

West Coast University

Campus

Achieve your educational and professional goals with help from West Coast University. We offer accelerated Health Care Administration degrees designed for working adults like you.

Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• LVN to BSN
• RN to BSN

Campus Locations:

Anaheim
Ontario

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Campus

Take the first step toward advancing your nursing career. Chamberlain College of Nursing offers a highly respected degree coupled with clinical learning experience in your local area.

Programs:

• Master of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)

Campus Locations:

Addison

Carrington College California

Campus

Carrington College California offers the programs you need to begin a career in healthcare. Choose from Healthcare, Massage Therapy, Dental Assisting, Pharmacy Technology, or Veterinary Services.

Programs:

• AS in Registered Nursing
• AS in Vocational Nursing
• Certificate in Vocational Nursing

Campus Locations:

Sacramento
Antioch
San Leandro
San Jose
Emeryville
Citrus Heights
Pleasant Hill
Stockton

Concorde

Campus

We believe hands-on experience is the best way to learn. And at Concorde, you’ll find that a “learn by doing” approach to healthcare training will get you the skills you need to succeed-- and get you into the workforce quickly.

Programs:

• Vocational Nursing
• Vocational Nurse
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

North Hollywood
Garden Grove
San Bernardino
San Diego

Santa Barbara Business College

Campus

California is home to beautiful landscapes, a diverse population and countless things to do. Santa Barbara Business College is a California technical school that helps people just like you learn skills for their career. After all, without a good career, it can be difficult to enjoy all the wonderful things California has to offer.

SBBCollege is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. For information on graduation rates, median debt of graduates who completed these programs and other important information, visit http://www.sbbcollege.edu/consumerinformation/disclosures.php. SBBCollege offers financial aid to those who qualify.

Programs:

• Vocational Nursing
• Medical Assisting Diploma
• Medical Assisting Associate

Campus Locations:

Rancho Mirage
Santa Maria
Ventura
Santa Barbara

Intercoast Colleges

Campus

Get your career started with Intercoast Colleges. We offer a number of certificate programs in a variety of fields, including medical, allied health, massage therapy, nursing, and electrical training.

Programs:

• Vocational Nursing
• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Fairfield
Orange
West Covina
Elk Grove

Charter College

Campus

You can prepare for a new career with help from Charter College. Our accelerated Bachelors Degree, Associates Degree, and Certificate programs are designed to help you complete your education as quickly as possible. We offer year-round classes and flexible scheduling - study anytime from anywhere. We provide students not only with the technical skills necessary for success, but also job search and placement assistance so you can find new opportunities after graduation.

Programs:

• Diploma - Vocational Nursing
• Diploma - Medical Assistant
• Certificate - Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Canyon Country
Lancaster
Long Beach
Oxnard

Institute of Technology

Campus

You can get started on a new career with Institute of Technology. We offer diploma and associate degree programs for careers in the culinary, technical, medical, business, and legal fields.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website at www.it-colleges.edu/disclosure

Programs:

• Vocational Nursing-Diploma
• Medical Billing/Coding Specialist
• Professional Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Redding
Modesto
Stockton
Clovis

Grand Canyon University

Campus

Don't Miss a Day of Your Future! Grand Canyon University is offering Bachelor and Master degrees through our College of Education, Ken Blanchard College of Business, College of Nursing & Health Sciences, College of Liberal Arts, and College of Entrepreneurship. Classes start soon!

Programs:

• M.S. in Nursing: Health Care Informatics (Bridge)
• M.S. in Nursing: Health Care Informatics
• M.S. in Nursing: Public Health (Bridge)

Campus Locations:

Phoenix

Summit College

Campus

Get your career started with an education from Summit College. We offer programs in legal office assisting, licensed vocational nursing, office administration, administrative and clinical medical assisting, medical billing and coding, dental assisting, and accounting assisting.

Programs:

• Licensed Vocational Nurse

Campus Locations:

Anaheim
Colton

Keiser University Graduate School

Campus

Keiser University offers accredited degree programs in today's high-demand careers: Healthcare, Technology, Paralegal, Business, Nursing and Legal Studies.

Programs:

• Nursing, MS (Online)
• Health Services Management, Graduate Business Certificate

Campus Locations:

Fort Lauderdale

Bellevue University

Campus

Bellevue University makes it possible for motivated adult learners to earn a high-quality college degree.

Programs:

• BS in Nursing
• BA in Health Science
• MHA Healthcare Administration

Campus Locations:

Bellevue

CBD College

Campus

Get career training with CBD College. We offer an associate degree in vocational nursing, plus diploma programs for careers in the fields of medical massage therapy/physical therapy, pharmacy tech, surgical technology, and vocational nursing.

Programs:

• Associate of Applied Sciences in Vocational Nursing
• Vocational Nursing

Campus Locations:

Los Angeles

Western Governors University

Campus

At Western Governors University, your competence - the knowledge and skills you possess - is the ultimate focus of every degree program.

Programs:

• B.S. in Nursing
• M.S. in Nursing - Leadership and Management (RN to MSN Option)
• M.S. in Nursing - Education (RN to MSN Option)

Campus Locations:

San Francisco

Stratford Career Institute

Online

Stratford Career Institute can help you earn your diploma from home in as little as six months, thanks to their proven study methods.

Programs:

• Health Care Aide
• Medical Office Assistant

Allied Health Institute

Online

Allied Health Institute is a post-secondary vocational school offering a variety of Diploma and Associate Degree programs in the field of Allied Health. By utilizing online learning, students have the flexibility to continue their education from the convenience of their own home. Our virtual classrooms will enable students to attend classes and communicate with instructors and classmates. Students can complete some programs without leaving their current employment or sacrificing family time.

Programs:

• Medical Assistant
• Medical Office Assistant

Saint Peter's College

Online

Saint Peter's College has prepared its students for academic excellence and professional success for over one hundred years. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to providing each student with the opportunity for educational and spiritual enrichment. That same commitment to individual support is now available to learners everywhere via the new online degree programs offered by the College.

Programs:

• RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Everest College

Campus

Develop the skills to succeed in today's highly competitive business environment. Everest College can prepare you for a rewarding career in some of today's hottest fields.

Programs:

• Diploma - Medical Assistant
• Medical General
• Diploma - Medical Administrative Assistant

Campus Locations:

Los Angeles
Hayward
Gardena
Reseda
San Bernardino
Santa Ana
Alhambra
Ontario
Anaheim
Torrance
LA Puente
San Francisco
San Jose

Platt College

Campus

Turn your talents into a career. Nationally recognized and accredited Platt College offers degree programs in Graphic Design, Multimedia, IT Networking and Paralegal.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting
• Respiratory Therapy Associate of Science
• Medical Administrative Specialist

Campus Locations:

Alhambra
Ontario
Riverside

Keiser University

Campus

Keiser University eCampus Online offers degrees in fields that are in high demand and provides job placement assistance to all its students and alumni.

Programs:

• Nursing, MS
• Medical Assisting, AS
• Health Services Administration, AA (Online)

Campus Locations:

Fort Lauderdale

Heald College

Campus

Heald College offers 18-month associate degree programs that will prepare you for a career in Business, Technology, or Healthcare. Small class sizes, hands-on instruction.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting
• Medical Office Administration

Campus Locations:

Salinas
Concord
Milpitas
San Francisco
Roseville
Stockton
Hayward
Fresno
Salida
Rancho Cordova

Milan Institute

Campus

Successful careers begin at the Milan Institute. We offer quality hands-on training, experienced faculty and a staff committed to helping you realize your goals.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting
• Administrative Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Bakersfield
Visalia
Indio
Clovis

UEI College

Campus

UEI College can give you the real world medical, business, and technology skills you need to start a rewarding career. Let us know how we can assist you with your personal growth by helping you train for your perfect career.

Programs:

• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Gardena
Fresno
Riverside
Bakersfield
Stockton

Saint Xavier University

Campus

“Success with Purpose” is the hallmark of a Saint Xavier University education that is grounded in the tradition of liberal arts. SXU offers graduate and post-graduate programs that are recognized and respected by employers and delivered by professional faculty who are experts in their fields. Founded in 1846 by the Sisters of Mercy, SXU is Chicago's oldest Catholic University, and it is recognized as one of the top 40 comprehensive master's universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report's America's Best Colleges 2010.

Programs:

• MSN in Clinical Leadership
• MSN in Executive Leadership
• Nurse Educator Certificate

Campus Locations:

Chicago

Empire College

Campus

Empire College, located in Santa Rosa, California, can give you the career training you need to launch or advance your career in the Business, Law, Technology, or Medical fields.

Programs:

• Medical Assisting

Campus Locations:

Santa Rosa

Newbridge College

Campus

Start your career with an education from Newbridge College. We provide high-quality, career-specific training in the health care field with an emphasis on the practical skills required by today's employers.

Programs:

• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Long Beach

WyoTech

Campus

The career-focused programs at WyoTech can give you the hands-on training you need to succeed. Program areas includemechanics, technician training, and technology.

Programs:

• Medical Assistant
• Medical General

Campus Locations:

Long Beach

Mayfield College

Campus

Give your career a boost with an education from Mayfield College. Our academic programs include medical front office, computer support technician, and general office management.

What's another reason that makes Mayfield College the right choice? Students receive a new computer when they graduate.

Programs:

• Medical Assistant

Campus Locations:

Cathedral City

South University Online

Campus

Designed with the needs of working adult students in mind, South University, Online Programs is built on the same curriculum offered at South University's campus locations. As a student at South University, Online Programs you will receive the same degree, quality instruction, variety of learning options and level of service found at the campus locations.

Programs:

• Nursing Specialization in Nursing Informatics (RN-MSN)
• Nursing Specialization in Nursing Informatics (MSN)
• Nursing (BSN)

Campus Locations:

Savannah