Tag: online learning

Inspiring the Next Generation: A Journey Through the Ohio State Online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Program

For passionate professionals looking to advance their careers in dental hygiene, Ohio State Online’s Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program offers a unique opportunity to develop leadership, teaching, and research skills. One student from Canada shares her inspiring journey through the program, shedding light on how it has helped her grow personally and professionally. 

Why Ohio State Online? 

For Jennifer Barkans, pursuing a master’s degree was driven by a deep passion for dental hygiene and a desire to inspire future generations of dental hygienists. With limited higher education options specific to dental hygiene in Canada, Ohio State Online stood out. “I knew it was the perfect choice,” she says, “having completed my bachelor’s degree here.” 

The program’s focus on education and research aligns perfectly with her career goals. “This program will prepare me for teaching, research, and advancing the profession while inspiring the next generation of dental hygienists.” 

The Benefits and Challenges of Studying Internationally 

As an international student, Jennifer has found the online format to be highly accessible and enriching. Despite minor challenges like restricted access to certain resources, the program’s faculty consistently provided alternatives. “Learning across countries has given me insights into differences in billing, insurance, and educational standards between the U.S. and Canada,” she shares. “This program has connected me with like-minded dental hygienists from across the U.S., fostering collaboration and a deeper understanding of the profession.” 

Memorable Courses and Faculty Support 

One of the standout courses for her has been Research Methods. “It was challenging but incredibly rewarding. I learned so much about finding and interpreting research and discovered strength in myself to tackle difficult topics.” 

The faculty’s support has been another highlight. Jennifer credits Dr. Danielle Rulli, DHSc, MS, RDH Associate Professor and Director for the Graduate Dental Hygiene Program for aiding in collaborations and providing reassurance during challenging times. “The faculty and staff are so passionate about their work and learning. It makes the experience that much better.” 

Applying Knowledge in Real-Time 

The program has had an immediate impact on her professional practice. “I’ve applied evidence-based practices to patient care and the dental hygiene process of care,” she explains. “The skills I’ve gained in finding and applying research have elevated the quality of care I deliver.” 

Building Connections and Overcoming Challenges 

One of the most rewarding aspects of the program has been connecting with classmates and faculty from diverse backgrounds. “There’s so much power in learning from people with different experiences,” Jennifer says. “We’ve even made plans to meet in person to solidify the bonds we’ve built.” 

Like many graduate students, she has faced challenges such as imposter syndrome and balancing personal time with academic demands. However, she’s overcome these hurdles through organization and support from faculty. “Scheduling time to decompress and reset has been key,” she notes. “Positive feedback and reassurance from faculty have also been incredibly helpful.” 

Personal and Professional Growth 

Through the program, Jennifer has discovered a new level of resilience and focus. “I’ve always doubted myself as a scholar due to a brain injury and learning disabilities. This program has shown me just how strong and capable I am,” she shares. 

Professionally, the program has opened doors to new opportunities and helped her career begin to take off. “The evidence-based research and education courses are helping me build a foundation for public speaking and achieving my goal of becoming an educator.” 

Thesis Topic Selection 

As a part of the MSDH program every student is required to select a thesis topic and then are responsible for defending their research.  Jennifer explains why she chose her thesis topic. “A long-term goal of mine is to advance the profession of dental hygiene and make an impact on how dental hygiene care is delivered in my province. Access to oral healthcare is an issue in many places in the world, and I believe dental hygienists can play a critical role in care access.”  

She continued by saying “I believe my thesis has the potential to make an immediate impact in my province and community. Dental hygienists hold a remarkable ability to prevent oral diseases and improve quality of life through oral health prevention. However, there is a disconnect between all that dental hygienist are educated in and what their legal scope of practice allows them to do. My thesis aims to evaluate how dental hygienists perceive their education and how it impacts the scope of practice.” 

Advice for Prospective Students 

Her advice to anyone considering this program? “Take the leap—you won’t regret advancing your education. The professors and resources at OSU are outstanding. This program will push your limits, inspire you, and give you the tools to succeed.” 

A Vision for the Future of Dental Hygiene 

Participating in the program has shaped her perspective on the profession and its potential. She sees immense value in promoting license portability and strengthening the collaboration between U.S. and Canadian dental hygienists. “We need more hygienists in positions to inspire, educate, and motivate future generations. Our work improves community oral health, and I hope this becomes more evident to people in the years to come.” 

Becoming the Best Version of Yourself 

When asked to describe the program in one phrase, she says, “OSU is the place to become the best possible version of yourself. Show up, put in the work, and believe in yourself—you got this!” 

Ohio State Online’s Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program is more than just an education—it’s a transformative journey that equips students to lead, educate, and inspire within their profession. For anyone passionate about advancing dental hygiene, this program offers the tools, support, and connections to make a meaningful impact. 

Ready to learn more? Visit Ohio State Online to explore all our program offerings, connect with an advisor, or start your application today. The MSDH program offers rolling admission and only starts in the autumn term every year. Start today – Your future advancing in the dental hygiene field awaits! 

Why Clinical Research is a Fast-Growing Career Field & How to Get Started

The healthcare landscape is continually evolving, with new treatments, medications, and medical devices being introduced daily. At the heart of these advancements is clinical research. Clinical research is a branch of medical science that involves the study of health and disease in humans. Its purpose is to understand the safety, efficacy, and side effects of medical treatments, devices, and interventions. As the demand for new therapies increases, so does the need for skilled clinical researchers who can lead groundbreaking studies and drive medical progress.

The Growing Demand for Clinical Researchers

Several factors are fueling the rapid expansion of the clinical research industry: 

1. Increasing Global Health Challenges

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders, along with new infectious diseases like COVID-19, has heightened the demand for clinical trials aimed at developing new treatments and vaccines. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that clinical research is crucial for addressing global health crises and enhancing patient outcomes. 

2. Expanding Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries

Pharmaceutical and biotech companies are making significant investments in research and development (R&D), resulting in a substantial increase in clinical trials worldwide. The U.S. National Library of Medicine currently lists over 460,000 registered clinical trials globally, reflecting the industry’s rapid expansion and the growing demand for professionals to manage these studies. 

3. Job Growth & Career Stability

The demand for clinical research professionals continues to grow, making it a stable and rewarding career path. According to Indeed, the average salary for Clinical Research Associates (CRAs) in the United States is approximately $83,325 per year, with variations based on experience, location, and employer type. As the field expands, professionals with a Master of Clinical Research may have greater opportunities for leadership roles and higher earning potential. 

Advance Your Career with a Master of Clinical Research

Earning a Master of Clinical Research from Ohio State online can give you the expertise, hands-on training, and industry connections needed to excel in this field. With a fully online format, this program is designed for working professionals looking to advance their career in clinical research, which may include obtaining an entry level position or aspiring for a  leadership role at an academic medical center, pharmaceutical company, or contract research organization (CRO) among many other entities.  

The flexibility of this program is ideal for working professionals. Moreover, the program offers extensive learning from medical product development and regulations to study design, data management, project management, and a capstone course. In this capstone course, you will develop a culminating project and an ePortfolio. The culminating project will fall into one of four categories:  

Option 1: A Systematic or Integrated Review of a research topic  

Option 2: A Research Proposal/Grant Submission 

Option 3: A Manuscript for submission to a Journal 

Option 4: An individualized scholarly project of student’s choice (May include a mentored project). 

This program will mold you into a sought-after clinical research professional.  

Ohio State’s Master of Clinical Research: Where Graduates Go 

With 390 graduates from Ohio State’s Master of Clinical Research program, alumni are making an impact in various sectors of the industry. Out of 295 graduates with available data: 

  • 62% work at site/academic medical centers, contributing to research conducted at hospitals and universities. 
  • 19% work at pharmaceutical companies, helping develop and test new drugs. 
  • 15% are employed at contract research organizations (CROs) that manage clinical trials for biotech and pharma companies. 
  • 4% work in other areas, including medical devices, technology, consulting, and more. 

Find more information here on how Ohio State’s Master of Clinical Research can help you take the next step in your career! 

Welding engineering alumna Karen Gilgenbach discusses her journey within online learning

Welding engineering alumna Karen Gilgenbach discusses her journey with online learning

When Karen Gilgenbach decided to earn her master’s in welding engineering, The Ohio State University’s fully online program was at the top of her list. 

Home to faculty who are experts in their field, the online Master of Science in Welding Engineering (MSWE) at Ohio State is among the top programs of its kind in the world.  

With a full-time job in Wisconsin, Karen enrolled in the online program – which made it possible for her to gain the critical welding engineering expertise she needed to advance in her field.  

Now a Zone Vice President at MATHESON, Karen shared with us some of her favorite memories from the MSWE program, advice she would give her past self, and insight into her experience as a woman in the engineering field. 

What led you to pursue the MSWE program?  

I have a B.S. in Engineering Mechanics and a CWI (Certified Welding Inspector certification). I was working in a technical role related to welding, and I loved the welding aspect. 

At that time, I was providing a lot of technical recommendations regarding welding, but, although I had great technician-level skills related to welding, the engineering aspects of welding were a gap in my knowledge. 

Why was this online program the right choice for you?  

There was never any doubt for me that Ohio State was where I wanted to get my welding engineering master’s degree. To me, it’s the best program out there. I really admire the work of the professors in the program and the research that they’ve done. 

However, I had a full-time job and a career, so I did not want to move to attend graduate school full time. The online program was perfect for me! 

The instructors were incredibly dedicated, and it was extremely flexible in terms of scheduling around my work. I also really liked that the in-person classes were recorded – even though I was watching them at night, it really made me feel like I was part of the class. 

I could never have done it without such great support from the professors. I was shocked at the amount of support they gave me – just one person. 

What was the most valuable thing you gained from this program?  

It’s hard to know where to start on this! I learned so much. From a technical perspective, I was most interested in weld failures, and all the things, metallurgical and mechanical, that can cause them. 

I learned about the Silver Bridge failure, and I found it so interesting that I took a road trip to visit the Point Pleasant River Museum to learn more about the historical and human elements of the tragedy. While the actual failures can be tragic to learn about, it is so important to learn from them to avoid having failures in the future. 

Could you tell us about your experience as a woman in a mostly male field?  

I am a big believer that any time you take the road less traveled your experience will be more rewarding for it, so I would describe my experience in a non-traditional field as very rewarding. I have had so many great dialogues with women who are starting similar careers or educational journeys, and I am so grateful for all the discussions I have been able to have with them. 

In terms of the online program, it’s funny, because I did not really think about the fact that the other students in the online program were majority male! I always felt like it was almost one-on-one teaching from the instructors, who were incredibly involved.  

Tell us about your current role, and how the program prepared you for the work you do today.  

While completing this program, I was a District Manager in the industry. The gas and welding industry was actually a huge part of my educational journey. The industry really values high-level technical skills in engineering and welding, so I knew my colleagues and contacts in the industry would be supportive of me participating in the program. My colleagues provided me with a ton of assistance in completing the MSWE. In fact, one of my HR representatives used to proctor my Ohio State exams when I was in the online program!  

Because I work for a company that provides high-level technical information and advice to customers and business partners, this program really prepared me to have more meaningful discussions and add value. 

Is there any advice you would give to students interested in pursuing the program? What do you wish you knew?  

My best advice would be that the timing will never be perfect, so even if it does not seem like the perfect time to start, don’t put it off. You can always take one class at a time if things get hectic, but if you never start you will never finish. 

Connect with an enrollment advisor today and see if the Master of Science in Welding Engineering program is right for you.

Go beyond the bachalor's.

Engineering excellence starts at Ohio State. Request more information to see how Ohio State’s online engineering programs can elevate your skills and advance your career.

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Caudill sets out to change the world through healthcare 

A passion for healthcare 

Emily Caudill, a graduate of the online Master of Healthcare Innovation (MHI) program at The Ohio State University, always had one goal in life: to help people in whatever way she could through healthcare. This mission guided her towards serving in the Peace Corps in Lesotho, Africa where she educated many people on HIV and prevention methods. Eventually, Caudill made her way back to the United States and saw her need to help people was still as strong as ever. 

“When I first got back, I started work in a couple retail companies but soon realized that I really missed having that greater purpose of helping people. My major was in health communications, I was a health volunteer and I wanted to get back into the healthcare field,” Caudill said. 

Choosing the right master’s program 

That is when Caudill chose to enroll in Ohio State’s online Master of Healthcare Innovation degree. With courses focused on healthcare design thinking, organizational operations, and healthcare leadership development, she knew the MHI program would help her live out her life-long mission of helping others through healthcare. 

“I chose the Master of Healthcare Innovation program because of its partnership with the Wexner Medical Center. I really like that it is an academic medical center with a focus on research. It’s the best hospital in the state,” she said. “The United States has one of the most expensive healthcare systems in the world. America as a whole has some of the sickest people in a developed country. We need to do better. We need to figure out how to change healthcare.” 

Learning new perspectives within healthcare 

Throughout the MHI program, Caudill met so many different people who have opened her eyes to the many professions in the medical field, from healthcare administration to clinical roles. As an interdisciplinary degree, the Master of Healthcare Innovation attracts students from many different areas within the healthcare industry.  From healthcare administration, health information, health insurance, direct care, and pharmaceutical professionals, students join this program with a wide variety of knowledge and experience. The broad range of healthcare backgrounds that her classmates come from has taught her so much about the career opportunities that are available to her once she completes the Master of Healthcare Innovation degree. 

“The Master of Healthcare Innovation program is a journey, and I’m on it with about 40 other people whose mission in life is also to help people. We are learning how the healthcare system works and how it all connects. From clinical to administrative, I am learning how to change the healthcare industry for the benefit of the patient.” 

Caudill is able to live out her life-long mission through the Master of Healthcare Innovation program at Ohio State online. Connect with an enrollment advisor today to see if the Master of Healthcare Innovation degree is the right fit for you. 

Make a difference.

Are you ready to make a transformative impact in the world of healthcare?

Request more information about Ohio State’s online Master of Healthcare Innovation program.

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Why choose the Doctor of Nursing Education degree?

Hear from students: Why they chose the online Doctor of Nursing Education 

The Ohio State University’s online Doctor of Nursing Education (DNE) program has filled a unique gap in nursing education. This doctorate degree focuses on preparing our nurse education students to equip future nurses in both higher education and nursing professional development (NPD) in healthcare environments. DNE students across the country have experienced a transformative, supportive, and enriching academic experience. We recently asked our students what they loved about the Doctor of Nursing Education and here is what they shared.  

A unique degree designed to fit the needs of nurse educators 

Many students were drawn to Ohio State specifically for the Doctor of Nursing Education program because it was unlike anything they had encountered before. For Kelly M., the decision was simple. “I was immediately attracted to the Doctor of Nursing Education degree. I wanted to obtain a terminal degree in nursing, but I knew it wasn’t a PhD. The Doctor of Nursing Practice almost fit what I was looking for. However, once I saw the DNE and reviewed the curriculum, I applied immediately. It was a no-brainer; this is exactly what I was looking for in a terminal degree.” 

Meanwhile, Marci M. shared that the program requirements were part of what attracted her. “It was exactly what I was looking for. A terminal degree that revolved around education and did not require a dissertation.” 

Similarly, Megan A. highlighted the uniqueness of the DNE program as a key factor. “I was attracted to The Ohio State University because of their Doctor of Nursing Education. It was the degree I was searching for that I could not find anywhere else.”  

The program’s ability to fill this educational gap between a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and a traditional education doctorate makes this online nursing program unique. This is the very first Doctor of Nursing Education degree in the nation for those working in nursing education and wanting to improve their classroom. This makes the DNE degree ideal for those seeking career advancement by becoming a nursing professor in higher education or becoming a workforce advancement educator in an active healthcare setting.  

As the highest academic degree in the nursing education field, the online Doctor of Nursing Education program is designed to prepare you to be an expert nursing educator dedicated to teaching clinical skills to prepare the next generation of nurses. This online nurse education degree is distinct from DNP programs, which are professional nursing programs that focus on preparing nurses for the highest level of patient care or healthcare leadership but do not typically address how to become a nurse educator. Instead, this online DNE program focuses directly on the needs of nurse education. “Before the Doctor of Nursing Education program, there was no terminal degree for nurse educators.” Tracy K. observed.  

Overcoming concerns about online synchronous learning 

For many prospective nursing education students, the shift to online education raises concerns, but you can do nursing school online. Students consistently describe a surprising and uplifting reality. Victoria L. admitted to initial hesitation. “I was a little nervous about it being online, but I was pleasantly surprised to find out it is mostly synchronous.” Each course contains synchronous elements of live interaction that foster collaboration and engagement, creating a classroom experience that extends beyond screens. Marci M. had a similar experience. “The synchronous classes have allowed us to develop relationships with our peers and with our instructors. We would not have had that with all asynchronous classes.” 

Kelly M. said, “I have never taken online courses and was concerned about technology being a barrier. I have not had any challenges at all. All my professors have been so supportive, and the university has support for anything you need. What I wasn’t expecting was to develop such great friends in an online format. I am in contact with my school peers almost daily, and I look forward to meeting them all at graduation and maintaining lifelong relationships.” 

A supportive and cohesive online community 

The theme of community and mutual support is a cornerstone of the Doctor of Nursing Education program experience. Marci M. remarked, “This is the most cohesive group of students I have ever experienced in all my time taking classes. The interaction with my classmates was amazing. The support I felt from all of them at one time or another was uplifting.” 

Megan A. echoed this sentiment, saying, “Faculty in this program are immensely supportive during and outside of class time. Our cohort is very close and encouraging of each other.” 

Kelly M. highlighted the personal connections formed despite geographic barriers, noting, “It is very personal even though we are states apart, literally from coast to coast. We worry about each other; if someone isn’t online in class, someone will text them and check in. Everyone is invested in each other’s successes!” Tracy K. shared how the program exceeded her expectations. “The online experience at Ohio State has genuinely made me feel like a Buckeye, a part of the community!” 

Faculty dedicated to student success 

The unwavering support of faculty is a recurring highlight from students. “The faculty are supportive, our cohort is close (even though we live all over the country), and the content we learn is applicable to every aspect of nursing education,” said Megan A. Meanwhile, Victoria L. expressed deep gratitude for the faculty’s role in her personal and professional growth: “They believe in us, and it makes it easier to believe in myself because of that. They helped me escape my shell and slowly shed my imposter syndrome.” 

Our nursing faculty go above and beyond to ensure students feel equipped to thrive. As Kelly M. shared, “The faculty has been beyond supportive. They told us on day one that they expected everyone to succeed and have stood behind that 100%. No one is floating by; the program is hard work and rigorous, but the faculty are stretching us to grow with their full support.” Florence O. summarized her experience with the Ohio State faculty by saying, “They have not only guided us to survive, but they have even more guided us to thrive!” 

A well-rounded educational experience 

Beyond coursework, the Doctor of Nursing Education program integrates wellness and professional development as core components. Florence O. applauded the holistic approach, stating, “Wellness is not only preached but actually practiced. The fact that it is embedded into the program encourages us to take proactive measures to live well.” 

From personalized faculty attention to a cohort that feels like family, Ohio State’s online Doctor of Nursing Education program is a testament to the power of purpose-driven education. For those seeking one of the best online nursing programs and a transformative path in nursing education, these students speak for themselves—Buckeyes aren’t just educated, they thrive.  

Change the future of nursing education.

Whether you’re looking to become an expert nursing educator in academia or a healthcare setting, Ohio State’s Doctor of Nursing Education program will equip you to lead the future of nursing education.

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From Volume to Value: A Shift in Healthcare

Michael H. Ackerman, DNS, RN, FCCM, FNAP, FAANP has seen a lot of changes within the healthcare industry since beginning his career 37 years ago. Now he is teaching future leaders to disrupt the industry through innovation as the Director of The Ohio State University’s Master of Healthcare Innovation online program.

“The biggest change that I am seeing is the shift from volume to value. It used to be that healthcare organizations, such as hospitals, were rewarded for doing more. More surgeries and operations meant more money. Now, there is an emphasis on quality and cost which is forcing organizations to shift.”

In December 2017, Aetna was purchased by CVS. Meanwhile Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway and JP Morgan Chase recently joined forces to create their own healthcare company for employees. These are examples of companies that are taking the healthcare industry by storm.

“Initiatives like these are wonderful; they’re disruptive to the current system” Ackerman said. “Companies like Amazon and CVS are creating a sense of urgency for healthcare organizations to make a change. These leaders are positive deviants and that is what the Master of Healthcare Innovation online program aims to produce.”

Positive deviant: a person who provides innovative insights that challenge the norms of traditional systems. Through this online degree program, positive deviants are challenging the hierarchical structure of decision making that is found in the healthcare system.

“The healthcare industry is complex and can be stubborn to change. I want our students to be well positioned to tackle the complexity and chaos. In this industry, failure is frowned upon. However, we teach that failure is essential for innovation, creativity and forward progress. It is acceptable to fail and make mistakes. Keeping in mind that it is intolerable to make the same mistake twice because that means you did not learn the first time.”

Traditional healthcare is based on a top down, vertical structure. In this digital age of knowledge abundance, there is a need for a more horizontal structure which means involvement from all levels. This online degree program prepares students to engage those at every level rather than just involving senior leaders to make the change.

Ackerman described a case study involving a hospital who recently saw a bump in post-operation infections:

“This hospital tried many solutions but couldn’t pin down the cause. Finally, someone thought to involve the staff who cleans the room. The assistant noted that the pressure to bring patients in quickly does not give the sanitizing spray enough time to dry and it is only effective when it dries. Now who would’ve thought to ask the cleaning staff??”

This case study provides an example of what Ackerman wants to instill in his students to help them evolve into positive deviants. He is empowering his students to become leaders who drive innovation through whatever methods they see fit.

“It’s been a blast. I’ve really enjoyed being the director of the Master of Healthcare Innovation program. It’s been my pleasure to guide these students from A to C. A is where they started, B is where they are after this program and C is the impact they will make on the healthcare industry through innovative leadership.”

Are you thinking about becoming a positive deviant? Check out how the online Master of Healthcare Innovation program is empowering students to make changes in the healthcare industry that benefit the patient.

Why the Master of Translational Data Analytics is right for you.

Ohio State’s Master of Translational Data Analytics (MTDA) is a fully online master’s degree designed for working professionals who are looking to become experts in the world of data analysis and storytelling.

Offered through Ohio State’s Translational Data Analytics Institute, the online MTDA program was voted among the top 10 best Online Master’s in Data Analytics program in 2024 by AnalyticsDegrees.org, and equips students of various backgrounds with the skills needed to effectively communicate data stories into an understandable and accessible format. So why is a Master of Translational Data Analytics right for you?

1. An interdisciplinary program with design thinking built in.

Using an interdisciplinary approach, the MTDA program takes advantage of the deep expertise of instructors across Ohio State departments like Design, Statistics, Computer Science and Engineering, and the Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design. Through the program, students are equipped to utilize a design thinking lens to apply data analysis skills and research methods immediately. 

The interdisciplinary nature of the program brings professionals together from a broad range of industries, including government, finance, healthcare, and the arts, to bring their unique backgrounds to data science. This program will teach students to develop full cycle workflows that incorporate statistics, machine learning, and data visualization.  

2. Various pathways are offered to accommodate your schedule.

The MTDA program is designed with the working professional in mind. With three pathways to complete the program, students can work at a pace that is right for them. Choose from a 5-semester pathway which can be completed in 21 months, an 8-semester pathway which can be completed in 33 months, or a 10-semester pathway which can be completed in 45 months.   

Each pathway adjusts the number of credit hours you will take per semester, which will increase or decrease your overall time commitment. Students enrolled in the 5-semester pathway should expect a weekly time commitment of 18-21 hours per week, while students enrolled in the 10-semester pathway should expect a time commitment of 9-12 hours per week. 

3. Synchronous and asynchronous instruction methods featuring real-world application.

The MTDA program features a blend of synchronous and asynchronous classes which allows students to complete classes on their own schedule while providing collaborative interactions with their instructors and peers.   

As part of the program, students participate in a two-semester capstone to apply their learnings to real-world data questions. Engage directly with community partners to create complete workflows while processing data and interpreting results. MTDA program faculty and staff will help facilitate the placement for this capstone, eliminating the need for you to source this opportunity. 

4. No significant programming or statistics experience is required.

Whether you’re looking to transition into an analytics role or improve your current analytics skillset, this degree can help you achieve your goals. Unlike similar Master of Data Science and Data Analytics programs, no significant experience in programming or statistics is required, allowing students from various backgrounds to learn the ins and outs of design-thinking from Ohio State’s team of subject matter experts. Prospective students should have at least one year of professional experience gained through employment in a relevant field. This program is designed for students who can display problem-solving, take initiative, and bring a strong work ethic in their professional environment.

Want to learn more about the Master of Translational Data Analytics program? Contact us or visit our website for more information.

What is an MEM Degree?

What is engineering management?

A Master of Engineering Management, also known as an MEM degree or an MSEM degree depending on the institution, is a graduate degree that combines the technical skills of engineering with the business knowledge needed to lead an organization successfully. This is a degree for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree, preferably in engineering or an engineering-related field of study and are ready to take their education and career to the next level. An MEM degree is often a requirement for individuals who are pursuing management or executive-level roles within engineering or manufacturing companies or public agencies.  

The fully online Master of Engineering Management program at The Ohio State University, prepares you to advance to management roles or leadership positions within the engineering industry. In this 100% online master’s program, you will learn new engineering management and business skills while better understanding policy and the business-government relationship. This online MEM degree is designed for working professionals, so you can complete online coursework and access materials at a time that best fits your schedule. With core classes provided by The Ohio State University College of Engineering, the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, and The Fisher College of Business, you will gain a holistic approach to management covering business leadership, engineering and project management, finance and accounting for engineers, technology strategy and innovation management, visual data analysis and design of engineering experiments, offering you interdisciplinary expertise throughout all online courses. 

What are the benefits of pursuing a master’s in Engineering Management online?

  • Flexible Scheduling: Completing an engineering management master’s degree online means more flexibility and removes the need to travel to a campus and sit in a classroom. Depending on the engineering management program, classes may be offered asynchronously, allowing for coursework completion at convenient times. 
  • Leadership Opportunities: MEM graduates are equipped with both engineering knowledge and essential managerial principles, making them ideal candidates for leadership positions. 
  • Operational Excellence: MEM graduates are prepared to bridge the gap between technical teams and upper management, navigate the application of innovative technology, and integrate leadership and process improvement strategies to add greater value to their organizations.  
  • Increased Earning Potential: Graduates are often able to increase their salary due to their enhanced engineering skills and greater knowledge of operational tactics. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary in 2023 for a mid-level Industrial Production Manager was $116,970 a year and could reach $190,480 a year for senior level managers. 
  • Global Perspective: An MEM degree can provide a global outlook on business, policy, trade, and public administration, preparing students for all aspects of interacting with a globally integrated economy.  

How does a Master of Engineering Management degree differ from other engineering degrees? 

The primary difference between an MEM degree and other engineering master’s degrees is the focus on business skills needed for engineering management and leadership roles rather than technical expertise. At Ohio State, there are two online master’s-level engineering programs in addition to the online Master of Engineering Management that provide different educational focuses for engineering professionals with different goals. 

  • Master of Science in Welding Engineering: Ohio State touts the only welding master’s program in the United States. This online engineering master’s degree is designed for professionals looking to hone their technical knowledge in the welding industry. Since this program emphasizes more specialized knowledge in welding specifically, this program may not be the best fit for individuals looking to advance into leadership roles.  
  • Master of Applied Aeronautics: This online engineering program combines foundational principles with emerging technologies and equips students with the skills to tackle complex challenges in aeronautics. With asynchronous courses focused on aircraft design, propulsion, fluid dynamics, and more, this program is focused on aerospace leadership and driving innovation in aerospace, defense, and government sectors.

Request more information or start a conversation with one of our Enrollment Advisors to see how Ohio State’s online Master of Engineering Management can fit your schedule and help you reach the next level of your career. 

Representation and Research: Jenna Greene Applies Pharmacology Expertise to Cancer Treatment

Juliana Scheiderer | March 16, 2021

Cancer researcher and Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology alum, Jenna Greene, is on a mission to enhance the representation of the deaf and hard of hearing community as she prepares for medical school. Her journey from laboratory technologist to future medical professional demonstrates the impactful role that Ohio State’s online pharmacology degree has played in advancing her career and research.

From Laboratory Technologist to Cancer Researcher

Greene’s passion for pathology and her role as a laboratory technologist at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute drove her to explore advanced studies in pharmacology. The Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology, with its focus on clinical research and drug development, was the perfect complement to her work on oncology clinical trials.

“The program’s relevance to my daily work in clinical trials made it the right choice for me,” said Greene. “We process biological specimens for clinical trials in Phases I through III, and it was amazing to see drugs get FDA approval based on the trials we supported.”

Translational Pharmacology: Gaining Expertise in Drug Development

The Ohio State online pharmacology program not only enhanced Greene’s understanding of the drug development process but also provided her the opportunity to tailor her education to her personal research interests. For her capstone project, Greene focused on developing a protocol for a combination treatment targeting acute myeloid leukemia (AML)—an innovative approach not previously studied.

This hands-on experience deepened her knowledge of the pathology and available treatments for AML and highlighted the need for future research.

“I gained insight into the effort and collaboration required in protocol writing and the launch of clinical trials,” said Greene. “It was invaluable to understand how much goes into conducting successful trials.”

Leveraging an Online Pharmacology Degree to Improve Representation

The flexible online format of Ohio State’s Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology enabled Greene to balance her professional and educational responsibilities while pursuing her long-standing dream of attending medical school. As a member of the deaf and hard of hearing community, she sees the impact her education can have on improving representation in healthcare.

“My goal is to enhance the visibility of deaf and hard of hearing professionals in the medical field,” said Greene. “I believe my unique perspective will help bring awareness to improve healthcare outcomes for diverse patient populations.”

Career Growth and Future Goals

Greene’s graduation from the pharmacology program aligned with her promotion to clinical research coordinator at Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center. In her new role, she provides feasibility and logistical support for new clinical trials, ensuring alignment with specimen collection protocols. This transition marked a significant step forward in her career and highlighted the immediate impact of her pharmacology degree.

Looking ahead, Greene remains focused on her goal of attending medical school and continuing her work in pathology or oncology. The Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology program helped her solidify her expertise in clinical trials and drug development, positioning her for future success.

Learn More About Translational Pharmacology at Ohio State

Ohio State’s Master of Science in Translational Pharmacology program is designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in clinical research, drug development, or pharmacology. With a flexible online format and faculty expertise from the Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy, the program equips students with the skills they need to excel in clinical trials and research.

Can you really get a nursing degree online?

Can you really get a nursing degree online? The short answer is an emphatic yes! It is possible to get a nursing degree online. You can earn a variety of nursing degrees online from Ohio State, ranging from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Technology is changing and challenging what universities can do when it comes to higher education. Thanks to these advances, it is now entirely possible to attend nursing school online. At this point, you might be asking, “How?” Read on to learn more about how the expert faculty at the College of Nursing teach online nursing programs and reach out to us for more information about these nationally ranked programs.

The Ohio State University College of Nursing is a top nursing school, home to some of the best online degrees in the country. In 2023, Ohio State’s graduate online nursing programs were named among the best online nursing degrees by U.S. News & World  Report, with the Master of Science in Nursing ranked No. 2 in the nation. The online RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing was also ranked among the top 10 programs nationally.

We sat down with Alice Teall, an Instructor of Clinical Practice in the Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner specialty), to learn more about what it’s really like to attend nursing school online.

How do instructors teach online students to practice nursing?

There are many misconceptions when it comes to online learning. One of those misconceptions is that online learning is an isolating experience. Teall counters that by developing an online community in her courses where her students can actively learn together.

Students are separated into small groups at the start of the semester. Throughout the course, the groups collaborate together online, using CarmenZoom, to complete case studies and prepare for exams. Students can analyze and discuss nursing case studies together using discussion boards on CarmenCanvas, as well.

Another popular teaching tool is called a branching activity. In these modules, nursing faculty create realistic scenarios and ask students to choose an option that represents the best action for the nurse to take. Their choice either leads them to a correct answer, sends them back to make another choice if the answer is incorrect or, in some cases, takes them further along in the simulation to an outcome they really don’t want.

Teall also demonstrates skills via webcam and encourages students to practice on a friend or family member, while she supervises. With the rise of telehealth, the ability to utilize technology as part of patient care is critical for nurses.

Do online nursing students need to come to campus?

No, online nursing students do not need to come to campus. The College of Nursing offers distance learning degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates. The vast majority of these online nursing degrees and certificates will not require any visits to campus. The handful that do, only require one or two visits throughout the whole curriculum, and students are provided these dates far in advance to help them plan.

Of course, all students are invited to campus for orientation at the start of your educational journey and for graduation at the end.

How do online nursing students get the clinical experiences that they need?

Online nursing clinicals are not an option – yet.

While the majority of instruction in online nursing degrees can be completed online, some (but not all) programs require a clinical component. The clinical component is a requirement for nurses to gain experience in person and in the field. Programs that do not require clinical components build off students’ existing clinical knowledge and work experience.

The College of Nursing’s placement office helps the students get connected to a clinic near them for placement. Each student needs to complete 675 hours with other providers to gain hands-on experience in patient care.

How do instructors evaluate students’ nursing skills?

Teall explains that students in online nursing programs are evaluated with Objective Structured Clinical Exams (OSCE), just like students in on-campus nursing programs. Beginning OSCEs will usually involve having a friend or family member simulate the condition. Teall and other nursing faculty watch and record using CarmenZoom, so the student can review themselves after the exam. As the student progresses through their online nursing program, they will be evaluated using a telehealth station provided by Optimized Care Network.

The telehealth station allows the examination to happen in real time. A ‘patient’ presents in front of the station in the on-campus lab, while the student virtually assesses and speaks with the patient from home. There is even a nurse at the telehealth visit that the student can guide. Teall logs in to a separate remote station where she can watch and record the student evaluation. In this video below, the patient is pregnant, and the student is performing a prenatal examination.

“In my 8 years as a clinical instructor in the online Master of Science in Nursing program, I have been amazed at all the things technology has allowed us to do in an online classroom,” Teall said.

Ready to learn more? Request more information about any online nursing program at Ohio State.