Knowing that you want to pursue a healthcare career, but not exactly which kind, can be uncomfortable. Should you apply to medical school or dental school? A physical therapy program or a speech pathology program? Or, as we will discuss here, a pharmacy technician program or a nursing degree. At first glance, these two programs may not sound like they have a lot in common. After all: - a graduate of a nursing program can expect to earn a higher salary than a graduate of a pharmacy program. - training to work in a pharmacy as a technician takes less time than training to become a nurse. - graduates of a pharmacy technician program can find work in a supermarket, drugstore, or hospital pharmacy, but nurses are more likely to work in an a hospital or clinical setting, or in a private home. - Becoming a nurse can mean embarking on a path of lifelong learning. Many nurses return to school after graduation to pursue such specializations as newborn nursing or palliative care; to learn about new developments in the field; and, to qualify for better paid positions. But, a pharmacy technician program also has some fairly significant overlap with a nursing program in that both programs attract people who: - want to help others – These are both caring professions. If you prefer the idea of chatting with a customer across the counter, opt for a pharmacy technician program. If you like the idea of participating more directly in the hour-to-hour care of a patient, opt for nursing. - who are willing to work irregular (i.e., not 9 to 5) hours. - can pass a criminal background check with flying colours. - have good communication skills. - are prepared to observe a code of ethics. - are organized. - are responsible. In fact, some people leave nursing to pursue a pharmacy technician program, and vice versa. In a nutshell, nursing pays better, but can be more stressful. But nurses who switch to working in a pharmacy should be forewarned that they may find it difficult to resist the urge to share their past professional knowledge with clients, who must legally be referred to the pharmacist for medical information of this kind. A pharmacy technician program, like a nursing program, prepares students for a career that is: - based on science - but geared towards patients or clients Like nurses, grads of pharmacy technician programs must be prepared to work long hours on their feet. They must be alert for signs of drug-seeking behavior in clients. Like graduates of a nursing program, pharmacy technicians should be able to secure employment fairly easily. So no matter what you decide, you should be able to start earning shortly after graduation. Visit Mohawk College for more information on a nursing degree.
Nobody should ever be tied to an employment that they do not enjoy. While a job is needed to make financial ends meet, it should still be something that people look forward to everyday- especially since most people spend the majority of their lives working. If this is not the case, then it may be time for you to consider a career change. A lack of a post-secondary education is no longer an excuse to refrain from a more desired career path. Developments in educational research have led to the introduction of online learning, also known as distance education. People can learn at their own rate, and need only to spare five to ten hours a week in their daily lives to study from the comfort of home. Concentrations include, but are not limited to: - Business - Health Sciences - Human Services - Languages and Communications - Computers - Creative and Visual Arts - Law and Security Policing - Engineering Technology, - Library Records Management - Engineering Technology - Social Sciences These programs all have different levels of focus, and these depend on what your personal preferences and strengths are. Every concentration can be taken to a higher level – this simply depends on the desires of the student. Since everybody learns in different ways and at different rates, online learning allows for people to educate themselves at the level that best suits them. The intimidation of the classroom is eliminated, and students are able to ask any question, at any time. The professors are accessible on a one-on-one level, increasing their approachability. Another benefit of distance education is that is forces students to work online. Today, technology is evolving quickly, and those who are unfamiliar with the operations of a computer are likely to be left behind. Gaining certification online is one of the best ways to learn the intricacies of your computer, and the functions of the Internet. Familiarity with computers will only add to your skill set, making your next employment application more appealing to potential employers. Continuing education is also cost-efficient. Parking, food and babysitting expenses are eliminated. Tuition and supplies are your only cost, and these are generally manageable. For those people that need additional monetary assistance, financial aid is available to those that qualify. Financial help can sometimes help bridge the gap between choosing to further our education, or continue on with our daily lives, so find out if it is an option available to you. Distance education is a way of learning that strays away from the confines of the classroom. It allows people to learn what they can, when they can, without putting additional strain on the everyday circumstance of an individual’s daily obligations. It is an education that is considerate of the individual. If properly applied, continued education can change the course of your life, providing you with a truly rewarding career. All you have to do is a little studying from time to time. Visit Mohawk College for more information on online learning programs and courses.
Knowing the theory of how something works is useful only if it is accompanied by actual experience. Putting into practice what you have learned is sometimes one of the most challenging aspects of learning a profession, and one of the most important. But this can go both ways. Often many professionals are trained on the practical side of a business, but lack the book theory, or certificate, to accompany their highly developed skills. It is important to have a strong grasp on both the theoretical and practical sides of your intended profession. While having a certificate definitely provides credibility, most people won’t hire someone that doesn’t have sufficient experience. Today, the combination of experience and knowledge is essential, especially in such an ever-changing world as we live in today. Technology is evolving, and it is important that any kind of professional is able to keep up with new developments in industry, machinery, and computer technology. If not, you are likely to find your resume at the bottom of the pile. This is why being hired for an apprenticeship position is detrimental to your professional success. Understanding technology translates to understanding your own value. Fortunately, apprenticeship programs are available in a variety of fields. Options include everything from child and youth worker to general mechanic apprenticeship, and truck-trailer service technician to welding apprenticeships. All of these fields are ones that are extremely specialized, and therefore, are highly valued. The majority of them require either security or safety training (or both), and a significant number of apprenticeship hours before students can be declared fully qualified to work independently. You are simply not employable without sufficient field training. The trade off between employer and student is one of the best things about apprenticeship programs. There are many highly trained professionals to learn from, and this is essential if you wish to be successful in your field. Working with an established professional is also a great way to build your contacts, and your network within your specific industry. You will get to know people that work in the industries surrounding your profession, and learn how to properly deal with anybody in need of your services. This isn’t to say that you can build your business or career off of your employer – but you can definitely learn how to get started. Apprenticeship programs provide you with experience and theoretical knowledge. They prepare you for the working world, and provide you with an understanding of not only what to expect, but what you will have to do once you are a certified professional. This kind of education is invaluable today, and as a result, is prized by employers. And being valued is one of the best ways to kick-start your career. Visit Mohawk College for more information on apprenticeships in Ontario.
We always groan when it comes time to fix our automobiles. While some of us possess the skills to fix minor problems with our car, most of us really have no idea how they operate. So when something is wrong, we take our vehicle to the mechanic. And because we know little to nothing about our cars, we often think a mechanic is over-charging us for the work that needs to be done on the car. But the truth is, there is a lot of expertise, time and supplies that go into car repair. That is why being an auto mechanic, or a general mechanic, is one of the most valued skills in the job market. You can’t become a good mechanic, or even a passable one, without some kind of extensive training. The knowledge of auto mechanics is relied upon to ensure the safety and wellbeing of others, and so it must be certified. An auto apprenticeship is likely the best way to ensure that the students receive the right education and sufficient hands-on experience to be a mechanic. Auto professionals need to practice their skills in a real world environment in order to hone them, and that means working in the field from the very beginning of their training. A mechanical environment will also provide students with a network of people that work in his/her field, and will provide students with real world situations that require real world solutions. These are the type of things that must be learned from a book, and then put immediately into practice. Auto mechanic apprenticeships teach students how to maintain and repair automobiles. In order to be able to do this, they work towards helping students to develop the skills necessary to diagnose an automotive problem and then fix it. As a result, students learn extensive theoretical knowledge, and learn how to practically apply what they have learnt. As apprentices are constantly being observed, they learn how to strictly adhere to the country’s safety regulations. In addition, students come away from their auto apprenticeships with highly developed skills, knowledge and craftsmanship, and also with a sense of pride. And an apprenticeship in auto mechanics doesn’t necessarily mean working in a garage. It can translate to positions in mechanical assembly, transportation equipment manufacturing or even working for a car dealership (this can extend to the buying of automotive parts). The only thing standing in the way is how hard a student is willing to work. Students can choose to specialize in different departments, including auto body and collision repair, or they can choose to teach, if they prefer. These options are open to people with sufficient training, and require separate auto apprenticeships. Auto apprenticeships provide students with invaluable skills. In today’s tumultuous economy, it is essential to have a valued skill, especially one that works so closely with the evolutions of today. Visit Mohawk College for more information on general mechanic apprenticeships.
There is a certain amount of prestige that travels alongside the career engineer. When you hear the word, it seems to imply a certain level of practiced skill, the kind that can only be had with vigorous and diligent training. Engineers are the masters of implementing creativity into science, responsible for the building and/or designing of some of the greatest inventions and monuments in the world. What other career, short of a surgeon, could be more exciting? Find a focus There are many kinds of engineers. Their specializations range from computer work to architectural feats, so it is important to choose the engineering technology field of study that best applies to you and your particular talents. Programs include specializations in building and construction sciences, chemical and environment, computer science and information technology, electro-technology and mechanical and industrial technology. Each program is specifically designed according to its requirements. Whether you are building or designing materials, structures, machines, devices processes or systems, you are working towards the overall betterment and advancement of the whole of society. Prep your brain Whether you want to specialize in a residential, industrial, commercial, design or construction concentration, taking preliminary engineering courses is the essential first step. Upon successful completion, you will automatically be considered an esteemed member of the workforce. With jobs that require such an extensive amount of training, engineering technology graduates are considered to be a very valuable to potential employers. And engineers have lived up to the expectations of society as they are responsible for some of the greatest feats in the world (ex. think bridges). This is one of the reasons becoming an engineer requires the proper certification, an education that can only be thoroughly absorbed through focus and ambition. Just say when Remember, engineering programs are not just for students right out of high school. If you are currently employed and still feel uninspired, then maybe it is time to consider a career change. A preliminary engineering degree only takes three years to complete, making it a realistic goal for almost anybody with a talent for science and a creative mind. If you want to take your studies further, then that decision is up to you. With such a focus in technology and development today, engineering technology programs are a wise choice for those wishing to find immediate employment. With so many engineering programs to choose from, be sure to do the research in order to ensure that you are choosing the right engineering specialization. Technical engineering led to the invention of the electric motor, after all. The truth is, you can’t become a great engineer without undergoing the proper training. Just imagine what you could do. Don’t you want to have a part in some of the greatest feats of our time? Engineering is one of the best concentrations to get you headed in the right direction. Visit Mohawk College for more information on engineering technology college.
An architectural engineer is capable of great feats. From incredible building design all the way through to the actual construction, architectural engineers oversee the creation of some of the greatest feats in the world. It is the successful merging of both the creative and scientific. If you think that using both sides of your brain is a good fit for you, then maybe you should consider a career in engineering. Engineering programs offer people the ability to learn how to do something truly incredible. Full-time programs prepare students for the real world, increasing the probability of lucrative employment with both practical and theoretical training. Since not everybody learns at the same pace, experienced professors are available for one-on-one consultations. Students also learn from each other, through workshops and discussions. This creates what is called a network, and is one of the most useful features of any post-secondary education. It can help you later on in your quest to find employment, and may even provide you with additional sources if they are every needed. Architectural engineers are not the only kind of engineers. There are computer engineers, mechanical and industrial engineers, biotechnology engineers, chemical engineers and building engineers (etc.). Each field, regardless of its focus, practice and apply the same polices. They simply have different focuses, and therefore, different strengths. Doing a little research before applying can help you find the best engineering field for you to begin your career in. Programs include, but are not limited to architectural technician, architectural technology, civil engineering technology, civil engineering technician, transportation engineering, urban and recreational planning, biotechnology technician, chemical engineering, environmental technician, computer systems technician, computer systems technology, computer engineering technology, electrical engineering technology and energy systems engineering technology. If one of these engineering technology programs appeals to you, but you lack the proper prerequisites, many colleges have preparatory courses available to potential students. Speaking with an academic advisor can help you narrow down your field of concentration to find the best programs to fit your strengths. All of these concentrations are offered at both standard and advanced levels, should you choose to go further with your engineering studies. Degree options are available – students can complete a bachelor of technology. Generally, an engineering program takes about three years to complete. Once this preliminary degree is finished, there is no limit to where you can take your studies. During this time, financial aid is available to those that need it. This is an especially useful feature if you are already employed full-time, and are considering a serious career change. Many people cannot afford either the funding or the time to enroll in a post-secondary education, due to the obligations of full-time work, and relative expenses. Financial aid is great alternative for those people wishing to change career fields. If you are thinking about enrolling in one of the aforementioned engineering programs, then take the liberty to find out what options are available to you. Today, students that are qualified to be engineers are valued members of the workforce. They possess training that is extremely valuable in today’s market, especially considering the pace at which technology and industry is developing. Engineering is a promising field to begin your studies in. It is really only your decisions that will determine just how far you take your career. Visit Mohawk College for more information on engineering technology college.
Many people work simply to make ends meet, while others engage in an employment that provides them with the financial means to live a lavish life. Others want to give back, to do something to change the world in whatever way they can. While working towards the betterment may not be glamorous, it can make a huge difference in another person’s life. There are many study programs that are available in human services and justice, and wellness studies. These programs cover studies ranging from studies in autism and behavioral science to a diploma in social services. There even programs that specialize in nutrition and health. But what they all have in common is that these areas of study enable people to provide a service to serve others, to improve their quality of life. In some way, big or small, the careers listed above give back to the community. Human Services If you are interested in working with children, then a career in human services might be a great fit for you. You would have the opportunity to work with young children, help children in dire situations (rehabilitation) or even work with children living with autism (or other disabilities). Today, there is a shortage of people qualified to work for the social system. These are jobs that need to be filled by qualified people. These positions are also extremely important for the well-being of a community. Individuals need to be qualified to work with children, especially when they are so impressionable. An early childhood education diploma would qualify an individual to work with young children everyday. What career could be more rewarding? Healthcare Careers in health are also a great way to give back to the community. In North America, our levels of fitness and health are declining, so there has been a push towards living healthier lives, increasing our fitness levels and eating better. Many people are too busy to discipline themselves physically or in regards to what they put into their bodies, so they hire professionals to help them manage their lives. These types of careers are perfect for people who prefer not to have confined schedules, leaving them free to work at their own pace. Programs like the personal support worker program, allow individuals the opportunity to work in field that focuses on the health and well-being of others, allowing them to give back to society while improving it. These are the types of careers that mean the most. They all work towards making the world a better place. While a career in community and urban studies is not for everybody, it can be an incredibly rewarding and purposeful employment. Whether you decide to complete a degree in early childhood education, or choose to inform people on how to make better health choices, you’re helping. In the fast-paced society that we live in today, that is an invaluable quality. Visit Mohawk College for more information on community and urban studies.
You want to work in healthcare, but aren’t chuffed about the idea of putting in years of study towards an advanced medical or nursing degree. You want a more immediate door of entry to a career that involves working with the public and helping them take care of their most precious asset: their health. Look around you and you will see that there are pharmacies popping up on every corner across this great land of ours. Even in times of financial downturn, drugstores seem to somehow magically thrive. If a medical or nursing program isn’t for you, you may want to look into a pharmacy technician program. It could lead to a lifelong career, or simply open other doors for you, for instance, help you eventually get into a pharmaceutical program. A pharmacy technician helps a licensed pharmacist with the day-to-day operations behind the counter of a pharmacy. A pharmacy technician program prepares students to assist with such tasks as: - accepting payment (including processing insurance claims) - fielding phone calls - managing stock - packaging prescriptions Typically, a pharmacy technician program requires students to have acquired a high school diploma. It may also require student to have completed specific courses at the high school level, for example, Grade 11 or 12 math or biology. Students may be subject to a criminal background check. And, as with a medical or nursing degree, is also sometimes recommended to make sure that one’s vaccinations are up to date before embarking on a career that will put one in touch with vulnerable patients. Although it is not necessary to have completed a program, it can give job seekers an advantage on the job market. A certificate gives them credibility, but also access to employment opportunities, for example, internships. A pharmacy technician program can also prepare students to pass the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC) certification exam, which tests technicians on such topics as: - quality assurance - product prep - prescription information - ethical considerations - teamwork - management skills While in your pharmacy technician program, you can expect to learn about: - anatomy - computers - pharmaceutical calculations - pharmacy and the law Like students graduating from a nursing program, new pharmacy techs can expect to find a job with relative ease. They can choose to work in a rural area, in an urban area, in a supermarket pharmacy, in a freestanding pharmacy or in a hospital pharmacy. Graduates may also secure employment working for a pharmaceutical company, surveying and dispensing inventory. A medical or nursing program is not the only pathway to a satisfying career in the medical sector. If you like working with the public and have good organizational skills, you may want to consider a pharmacy technician program. Visit Mohawk College for more information on its pharmacy technician program.
Graduates of nursing in schools in Canada know that they are facing a bright future, with an in-demand job. What makes this future even brighter though, is the possibility of picking up extra work from time to time, to meet a financial goal. 1. Work in a rural or remote area. Graduates of nursing schools in Canada have a special way to make extra money: The government offers extra benefits to nurses who chose to work in rural or remote areas, which are traditionally under-served by trained healthcare professionals. The Canadian government offers the following incentives for graduates of nursing college who set up practice in rural or remote areas: - a $4,500 recruitment allowance paid in two equal installments when the contract begins and one year into the contract - graduates of nursing schools in Canada who take part-time or full-time work in remote First Nations communities may qualify for a retention allowance starting in their second year of employment - graduates of nursing college who work full-time in certain remote communities can see up to three return trips per year reimbursed by Health Canada These initiatives, which are meant to ensure equal access to health care for all Canadians, regardless of where we live, have an added benefit for graduates of nursing college, in that they can make it easier for graduates to meet their financial goals, whether it is to pay off their student loans, save for a maternity or paternity leave, or to buy a first home. 2. Take on extra shifts. One advantage of shift work is that it often allows you the flexibility to play with your schedule. Hoping to make a lump sum payment on your mortgage this year? Got a child whose overbite demands braces? Nursing college graduates have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that in the event of a financial crisis, they can speak to their manager about picking up extra shifts. 3. Teach a class in your community. As a graduate of nursing school, you have specialized knowledge. Perhaps you can take advantage of this knowledge by offering a class, for example, on preparing for childbirth or on supporting an ageing parent as they move into a nursing home. Boost your résumé and your bank account at the same time! 4. Sign up with a temp agency. Can’t get any extra shifts at your existing organization? Some temp agencies are more than happy to have graduates of nursing school on their call list. 5. Be a baby nurse. Some new parents aren’t content to have simply a nanny on staff for their childcare needs. Some prefer to have a registered nurse watch over their infants, especially at night, at least during the newborn stage. Graduates of nursing school can sell themselves as highly specialized newborn nighttime nannies. Happy moonlighting! Visit Mohawk College for more information on nursing schools in Canada.
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