Tag: Distance Learning Systems

It’s Never Too Late to Be On Time

You may take issue with the title of this message, and in most cases, I would agree; however, in the context of when to start college, nothing could be more true.

Most people would agree that the best time to begin college training would be immediately after high school. A marketing services firm tells us that more than 47% of students attending colleges or universities in the US are older than 25. Another interesting statistic is the percentage of non-traditional students in the US, which is 74% says NCES (National Center for Education Statistics). So, if you’ve been out of school for several years or the job market has forced you to retrain and upgrade your professional skills at any age, you are not alone!

Our office receives calls from prospective students of all ages, some even approaching retirement. A lady in Roanoke, Virginia, once told me her dream was to earn her RN. She had been an LPN most of her life and always wanted to earn that title. She enrolled, completed her program, earned her RN, and called me to brag a bit. She was incredible.

Online education has exploded over the last few years. It offers flexibility, especially for non-traditional adult students. Self-paced, online programs allow the student to continue working and raising a family.

If you find yourself in a position that requires additional education, you are not alone. There are unprecedented opportunities in today’s job market. Ever thought about becoming an RN? There are tens of thousands of RN positions open across the country. Have you dreamed about flying? Major airlines are scrambling to find more pilots. The USBLS says there will be over 14,500 openings for pilots over the next few years. These high-paying positions are just waiting for you to complete your academic training to secure higher pay, better benefits, and job security.

There has never been a better time to pursue higher education, regardless of age. So, you see, “On time” is relative, and it never is too late to be on time. Distance Learning Systems is a great place to start your journey. With over 30 university partnerships across the nation, Distance Learning Systems can save you time and money in pursuing your degree. DLSI will start you on the road to your choice of over 450 online degree programs that truly are life-changing. You should call them today; you’ll be right on time!

 

Written by Dave Christy

How to Choose an Online School

Today, with the advancement in technology and the rising costs of education, more and more people seek to earn a degree online. We understand that traditional education may not be for everyone. 

People have families, jobs, or obligations that keep them busy throughout the day, so earning a degree online is another way to achieve their educational goals without ever stepping onto campus. If you think you are one of these people, selecting an online college or university to earn your degree can be stressful and challenging for some to navigate. 

There can be many different things to consider when choosing the best online school for you, so we’ve put together a list of 3 helpful and quick tips for choosing an online university or college.

 

Tip #1: Choose an Accredited School

Earning a degree from an accredited school is essential because it helps determine if a college or university meets or exceeds minimum quality standards and maintains specific educational standards. It would be best if you took the time to research accredited colleges and universities that offer online degrees, which could impact your future career. An excellent place to start your research is on the U.S. Department of Education website https://www.ed.gov/accreditation. If researching is not something you have the time for, some online education providers customize paths to earning a degree online from an accredited school. 

Tip #2: Make Sure its 100% Online

Deciding on your major is an important decision, along with the school you choose, and not every university or college makes all of their majors available online. This can make it tricky for those who want to earn a degree online for the career they want to pursue. Some degree programs can be hybrid, a mix of online and on-campus courses, and not 100% online. If you know the degree you want, you will want to verify that your degree and classes are all online. If you are unsure of your major, there are online education providers that offer Gen Ed and General Elective courses that you can earn college credits and transfer those credits towards hundreds of different degree programs.

Tip #3: Research Costs and Admission Requirements

The cost of education and the admission requirements can be a big hurdle to clear. Investing in your education is an investment in yourself and your future. Still, you’ll want to start by comparing tuition costs, other fees, financial aid, and checking admission requirements. Also, ensure you don’t miss additional expenses such as course fees, textbook fees, course materials, labs, and technology fees. If evaluating the costs and admission requirements becomes too confusing or daunting, there are online education providers that will help you better understand the cost and admission requirements for obtaining your degree from an online school.

 

 Following these tips will equip you with the information you need to find the best online college or university or choose help from an online education provider. Distance Learning Systems is one online education provider that helps students enroll in some of the nation’s top online colleges and universities. Also known as DLSI, Distance Learning Systems is a premier provider of coursework that satisfies degree requirements for regionally accredited university partners. 

 

Written by Justin Hart

We’d Like to Hear From You!

To those of you that read these blogs consistently, thank you so much. Having an audience rather than feeling like I am writing into the void is a rewarding experience, so again, thank you. Seeing the reactions to articles, stories and interviews never gets less heartwarming for me. Especially when I can relate to even just one person.

Now I typically write about different topics that I come up with or that seem like a good fit at the moment, but now I want to hear from you guys! To our students, prospective students, and just general followers of our page, what do you want to read about?

We get great feedback especially when I do interviews and personal pieces. So, what type of topic would be personal to you? Do you need motivation? Time management tips? More information on the nursing field? Or would you like to hear about different job opportunities in different areas of study? Let us know!

Leave a comment on this post telling us what you would like to hear next. I’m all ears!

– Lucy

What I Wish I Would Have Known Before College

There is no step by step guide to survive school while pursuing a higher education degree. Many people describe college as some of the best years of their lives. However, higher education is a dramatic lifestyle change that can be hard to adapt to for many students. As a recent graduate reflecting on my college years, there are a few things I wish I had realized before I entered college. Here are a few things I wish I would’ve known, including stress, studying and money management.

In high school I was a three sport athlete, a member of the National Honor Society, the secretary for the student council and part of many other committees. I balanced these activities very well and loved every minute of it. However, the set schedule I was used to changed when I came to college. You are in charge of managing your schedule. No one is there to guide you along. This can be a major change of pace for many people. So my tip to you is to set a schedule. Sit down and plan out your week. Designate times to do assignments, tests and to study. Stick to your routine. Your grades will thank you.

If you had poor study habits in high school, it’s time to make a change. Students are often shocked by how much effort they must put into their classes. Even though students are often told how much time and effort they will have to put into their classes, they are typically stunned when they are actually expected to do it. If you’re really struggling, reach out to your advisor for helpful tips on how to manage your course work. They may also have resources available to you to make studying easier or more enjoyable! Don’t take on more than you can handle. Some students can handle four courses at a time while others may only be able to focus on one. Wherever you fall on this spectrum, that’s okay! Progress isn’t linear. Lastly, ask friends and loved ones what worked for them or look up studying tips online. If one method fails, don’t give up! Everyone is different, you just need to find your niche.

In all honesty, college was the most stressful time of my life. When my routine was no longer existent, I found that I had to discover new ways to manage stress and anxiety. It wasn’t until my junior year that I was able to find ways to manage that stress that worked for me. I found that what worked for me didn’t necessarily work for my friends. I had always been an extremely active person, so I naturally gravitated towards fitness to take my mind off of whatever I was stressed about. Going to the gym at the end of the day helped me relax and refocus. Other stress relievers can be painting, reading a book or even just watching a movie or tv for a little while. Find a healthy coping mechanism and make sure to incorporate it into your new routine.

Last but not least, money. Money can be a huge concern while earning your degree, and managing it can be difficult. My advice would be to set a budget or allowance for yourself. You can make it weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly. Factor in the cost of your loans, along with other expenses such as books and materials. When I made my budget, I also included money for food, extracurriculars along with how much money I would put into savings. I really stress putting money aside for savings. When my senior year rolled around, I was able to pay off my whole first semester with what money I had put aside which saved me the stress of paying more interest on my loan. Every bit counts, save what you can, when you can.

For many students, college is a whole new world and what comes along with it can be stressful and overwhelming. Finding what works for you during this time is extremely important. Sometimes, though, a little guidance can be helpful — take it from people who learned the hard way.

Is This Really Worth It?

There comes a time in every person’s life when they question if they’re on the right path. Perhaps you’ve been studying for 4 hours a day, multiple days a week, and still don’t pass that exam. Maybe you don’t feel the same excitement you felt during the first week of your job. It might even be that you have loved one’s telling you you can’t do it. All of these factors may cause you to ask yourself why you’re making the sacrifices it takes to become a nurse.

This week, Distance Learning Systems decided to reach out to RN’s and see why they chose the nursing field and why they stick with it. These men and women have offered us insight into their lives and careers.

Everyone has a story, and one day, so will you.

1. “I chose to be a nurse because I’ve always felt called to help others. Even though nursing school was hard, the day I saved my first patient was when I knew it was all worth it.” – Sam, 42
2. “It takes a special kind of person to be a nurse. I have been a nurse for over 30 years. I have had my share of disappointments, but it is from my own experience I am able to draw the perfect pleasure of nursing. I was a psychiatric nurse and worked with youngsters who had issues with drugs and abandonment. I became very enlightened and gained abilities to intervene in many cases.In one case, as the young lady was leaving she said to me, “I’ll never forget you, what you said to me, as long as I live.” I guess that one instance made my life important to someone.” Maureen, 61
3. “ I wanted to become a nurse so that I could impact people’s lives during some of the most difficult and traumatic times that they may ever experience. I always knew that I had a heart for helping others and nursing was the perfect career to make a difference. They say that nursing is a combination of art and science and I truly believe that. I wanted to care for patients’ minds, bodies, and spirits which is the holistic approach that nursing is centered around. I have stuck with nursing because I honestly cannot see myself doing anything else after the experiences that I have had. Saving a life or being present when someone takes their last breath are moments that I believe are a privilege for me to take part in. The skills, compassion, diversity, and connections are all reasons that keep me coming back shift after shift. I have seen healthcare teams work together to completely change the prognosis for a patient which is extremely rewarding. Nursing is a career where I have been able to use my talents and knowledge to make a positive impact on others.” – Judy, 25
4. “ I am a supervisor in a nursing home where I oversee 50+ residents. I comfort my residents while they are alive, and I comfort their families when they pass. They give my life purpose. At times it seems as though money is the most important thing., I am proud to know I matter and make a difference in someone’s life.” – Jason, 56
5. “When I was about 6 years old, I was sent to the children’s hospital in our state for some health complications. I ended up needing surgery and check ups every 3 weeks. Since I was there so much, my family and I formed a sort of bond with some of the nurses. They even threw me a little surprise when I had an appointment on my birthday. I never forgot how well they treated me and how comforting they were. I guess that was the motivation I had to be a nurse and why I stuck with it. I wanted to touch lives like they had touched mine.” – Jamie, 29
6. “When my husband passed away, the nurses were there with him every step of the way. They made his last moments comfortable. They earned my trust. To see everything they do and how hard they worked, that’s what inspired me. I became an RN at the age of 50.” – Sharon, 58
7. “I knew I wanted to be a nurse as long as I can remember. I’m not exactly sure why, I just felt drawn to the profession. It’s not a job for me, it’s a calling.” – Rebecca, 22
8. “Nurses run in my family. My great grandmother, grandmother and mother were all nurses. Seeing how fulfilled they were with their jobs and hearing their stories made it an easy decision for me. Was the road to becoming a nurse easy? Heck no! But was it worth it? Absolutely.” – Joanna, 44
9. “I didn’t know I wanted to be a nurse until my sophomore year of college when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I was so young and so scared. My doctors and nurses touched my heart and saved my life. I believe it’s my life’s duty to repay the favor and serve others.” – Sydney, 31
10. “God called me to be a nurse. I woke up one morning and knew that’s exactly what I was created to do. I enrolled in school that very day and have never looked back. I’ve been a nurse for over 20 years now.” – Charlotte, 49

In times as uncertain as these, remember why you’re doing it and who you’re doing it for.

Distance Learning Systems™ Partners with Medical Staffing Network to Upgrade Nursing Credentials

Distance Learning Systems™ and Medical Staffing Network partner to provide an affordable and accelerated pathway to an RN (Registered Nurse) license for qualifying medical professionals.
Greenwood, IN, May 21, 2019 – Distance Learning Systems™ (ec2-54-149-168-207.us-west-2.compute.amazonaws.com) announced today that Medical Staffing Network (www.msnhealth.com), part of the Cross Country Staffing (www.crosscountrystaffing.com) family, has partnered with Distance Learning Systems™ to join its network of corporate partners and regionally accredited universities.

This partnership provides a flexible and affordable online alternative for Medical Staffing Network’s nurses who are interested in upgrading their current LPN/LVN licensure to RN. Distance Learning Systems’™ unique online platform includes accelerated courses that save students both time and money. This partnership provides a means by which any Medical Staffing Network LPN/LVN aspiring to attain RN status may do so simply by completing online college level-courses through Distance Learning Systems™ and clinical validation.

Medical Staffing Network has reviewed and approved the nursing program offered by Distance Learning Systems™ as the most direct and seamless bridge to RN licensure available in this space. Cross Country Staffing plans to provide financial support to its nursing staff in support of this endeavor.

“We believe today’s college student deserves a more affordable, accelerated option for degree completion, one that allows adult students to maintain current lifestyles, and that’s what Distance Learning Systems™ provides,” said Dave Christy, President of Distance Learning Systems™. “Our partnership with Medical Staffing Network addresses the academic needs of the nation’s premier staffing company.”

Distance Learning Systems™ offers a high-quality, low-cost path for those interested in earning over 50 regionally accredited degrees, including nursing. Classes may be completed 100% live online and in traditional classrooms in select locations. This is truly a hybrid program for students who cannot attend class on campus but expect the same level of support available in a traditional campus-based program. Distance Learning Systems™ courses are recognized by the American Council on Education’s College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT®). To date, Distance Learning Systems™ has saved students over $200,000,000.00 in tuition and fees.

By making this commitment to its nurses, Medical Staffing Network is taking a huge step forward in continuing to deliver high-quality, flexible staffing solutions to the healthcare organizations it serves.

“This is a true partnership between Distance Learning Systems™ and Medical Staffing Network that will bring a higher level of skill set to the bedside, which will result in better outcomes,” said Cross Country Staffing Chief Clinical Officer Hank Drummond, PhD, MDiv, BA, RN.

About Medical Staffing Network
Medical Staffing Network, a member of the Cross Country Staffing family, is a trusted national provider of healthcare staffing and workforce solutions that balance quality patient care with cost savings. Medical Staffing Network has the flexible per diem and local contract opportunities clinicians want, and the pay and benefits they deserve. To learn more, visit msnhealth.com.

About Distance Learning Systems™
Based on its 97% National Pass Rate, Distance Learning Systems™, headquartered in Greenwood, Indiana, is believed by many to offer the nation’s most effective online learning platform. Distance Learning Systems™ (DLSII™), currently serves over 10,000 clients nationwide with customizable, structured, instructor – led online classes. Students will rapidly complete multiple college level courses recognized by the American Council on Education’s College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT®). An additional 2,000 additional U.S. institutions of higher learning also recognize and accept ACE CREDIT®. Note: The decision to accept specific credit recommendations is at the sole discretion of each college or university; for more information visit: ec2-54-149-168-207.us-west-2.compute.amazonaws.com or call toll free 1-888-955-3276.

Distance Learning Systems Expands Online Learning Program with New Brandman University Partnership

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Distance Learning Systems and Brandman University join forces to offer an affordable and flexible learning format for students to earn an accredited degree online.
Distance Learning Systems has partnered with Brandman University to provide an online learning program enhancing and supporting educational goals. The Brandman Premier Partnership gives Distance Learning Systems’ students increased flexibility and affordability in their continued education.

“Education is vital for success in today’s employment market,” said Dave Christy, President of Distance Learning System. “Our partnership with Brandman allows our students the opportunity to earn college credits in an accelerated, cost-effective environment while staying current with industry demands within their field of study.”

As a Premier Partner, Distance Learning Systems has access to exclusive scholarships that can be applied to multiple pathways including many of its over 80 degree, certification, credential and professional development programs. Brandman also offers custom solutions for staff and provides student-centered services to support them through graduation.

Brandman programs are available at more than 25 campuses throughout California and Washington and online, and through Brandman MyPath, our self-paced online competency-based education modality.

About Distance Learning Systems
Distance Learning Systems, headquartered in Greenwood, Indiana, is believed by many to offer the nation’s most effective online learning platform where students maintain a 97% national average pass rate. Distance Learning Systems (DLSII), currently serves over 10,000 students nationwide with customizable, structured, instructor – led online classes. Students will rapidly complete multiple college level courses recognized by Brandman University. Additionally, 2,000 U.S. institutions of higher learning also recognize and accept ACE course credits. Note: The decision to accept specific credit recommendations is at the sole discretion of each college or university; however specific credit transfers between DLSII and Brandman University have been established. For more information visit: ec2-54-149-168-207.us-west-2.compute.amazonaws.com or call toll free 1-888-955-3276.

About Brandman University
Brandman University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). It offers academic programs available at more than 25 campuses throughout California and Washington and online, and through Brandman MyPath, our self-paced competency-based education modality. Not all programs are available at all locations. Program availability is subject to change. To learn more, visit www.brandman.edu.

Distance Learning Systems Bolsters College Partnership Program by Adding Indiana Wesleyan University

Distance Learning Systems and Indiana Wesleyan University partner to provide aspiring nurses with a flexible and affordable option to obtaining a Bachelor of Science In Nursing.

December 12, 2018

– Distance Learning Systems (ec2-54-149-168-207.us-west-2.compute.amazonaws.com) announced today that Indiana Wesleyan University (www.indwes.edu) has partnered with Distance Learning Systems and joined its network of regionally accredited institutions.

This partnership provides a flexible and affordable online alternative for students interested in earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University. The program provides a unique online platform provided by Distance Learning Systems that includes accelerated courses that save students both time and money. This partnership provides a means by which any RN aspiring to earn a BSN degree may do so simply by completing online college-level courses through Distance Learning Systems and apply those credits toward their BSN from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Indiana Wesleyan University has evaluated and approved 15 DLSI courses (a total of 41 credits) as eligible for transfer into the RN to BSN program offered by Indiana Wesleyan University.

“We believe today’s college student deserves a more affordable, accelerated option for degree completion, and that’s what we provide” said Dave Christy, President of Distance Learning Systems. “Our partnership with this regionally accredited university, makes available exciting degree opportunities benefiting the student population we serve.”

Distance Learning Systems offers a high-quality, low-cost path for RNs to earn their BSN degree. Courses are completed 100% online with all the benefits of a traditional classroom and the convenience of a flexible self-paced program. This is truly a hybrid program for students who cannot attend class on campus, but require the same level of support available in a traditional campus based program. The DLSI program provides college-level courses that allow individuals to earn transferrable college credits through competency-based learning. Each college-level course is instructor-led, live or recorded, and requires taking only 1 class per week.

Distance Learning System courses are recognized by ACE, The American Council on Education’s College Credit Recommendation Service. Distance Learning Systems is accredited by ASIC and maintains a long standing A+ BBB rating, and has saved students over $200,000,000.00 in tuition and fees. Their program boasts a 97% national average pass rate.

About Distance Learning Systems
Based on its 97% National Pass Rate, Distance Learning Systems, headquartered in Greenwood, Indiana, is believed by many to offer the nation’s most effective online learning platform. Distance Learning Systems (DLSII), currently serves over 10,000 clients nationwide with customizable, structured, instructor–led online classes. Students will rapidly complete multiple college level courses recognized by Indiana Wesleyan University. 2,000 additional U.S. institutions of higher learning also recognize and accept ACE course credits. NOTE: The decision to accept specific credit recommendations is at the sole discretion of each college or university; however specific credit transfers between DLSII and Indiana Wesleyan University have been established. For more information visit: ec2-54-149-168-207.us-west-2.compute.amazonaws.com or call toll free 1-888-955-3276.

About Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) is a Christian comprehensive university of The Wesleyan Church that is committed to global liberal arts and professional education. The university system includes IWU—Marion, where about 3,000 students are enrolled in traditional programs on the main campus in Marion, Ind.; IWU—National and Global, which includes more than 10,000 adult learners throughout the world who study online or at 15 education centers in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio; and Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University, which offers a practical and student-centered approach for busy, working ministers. IWU’s DeVoe School of Business, the School of Nursing, the School of Health Sciences, the School of Educational Leadership, the School of Service and Leadership, and the Division of Liberal Arts are all housed within the National and Global campus. More information is available at www.indwes.edu.

Getting Started with Distance Learning Systems

 

It is all about distance learning, and they are actually making education accessible to everybody. Anywhere you go you can have your degree at your own pace and convenience. That is what Distance Learning Systems, Inc. (DLSI) tries to preserve and maintain over the years.

And not only that, Distance Learning Systems offer a live, interactive and structured learning scheme that is perfect for those whose schedules do not warrant for a conventional classroom.

Online tutorial, to say the least. And its students become tutored learners in return. They undergo a series of online tutorials with DLSI, and administered with a team of medical practitioners. Even so, they have one of the nation’s highest passing rate with 97%.

Compared to home study programs, however, DLSI offers a more personal online training to its students.

As in the case of their nursing courses, where a high percentage of nursing students have passed standardized tests since DLSI equips them with test-taking skills.

Aside from that, they are offering free nursing seminars to further enhance the capabilities of their nurses come employment time.

And because of that, most of the grades of their students are in A to B levels than the usual B to C standing as have been observed in other schools.

DLSI understands that a tutorial is much more effective than a large-scale classroom because it has a more concentrated effort on learning.

It also creates the notion of making these aspiring nurses to be more independent. Learning the lesson away from their instructors make them more responsible with their studies. A trait that has its merits when it comes to nursing work.

DLSI is hitting two birds with one stone. Not only are they foremost when it comes to distance learning, they are also leading the nation as a major contributor of skilled nurses.

Benefits of Distance Learning Systems

Distance learning, more commonly known as e-learning, is simply a formal and structured education over the internet. Its biggest selling point is the ability to learn and teach despite time and location, a big difference to classroom instruction. It is also less expensive compared to traditional schooling and the time is flexible. This type of learning system is more beneficial than it sounds.

Cost efficient. Distance learning is widely known for its low cost. It takes out the usual traveling and housing expenses that one usually spends on when going to a traditional school. Miscellaneous fees that traditional schools impose are also taken out.

Broad communication system. Because distance learning takes out the geographical constraints, people who enroll in this learning system are exposed to different cultures and personalities. It also allows interaction with international schools that offer such education online. Although most distance learning systems are done one-on-one, the availability of networking makes up for the absence of classmates.

Quality learning. The experience that distance learning provides is different from traditional schooling. Students are given free reign to do their course works and modules, providing them the ability to review and re-learn topics that they find difficult. This practice leads to student motivation and satisfaction.

Unique experience. Since people differ in learning styles, the use of advanced technology in distance learning is truly helpful. Learning experience is enhanced when education is done in a different number of ways—modules could include a variety of videos, audio, presentations and the like. It not only enhances experience, but interest as well.

Opportunity. There are cases when students cannot apply to traditional schools. Examples of this include people with disability, illnesses or behavior problems. Distance learning systems allows them to continue learning in the comfort of their homes while at the same time, they are being provided with pretty much the same services traditional schools offer.