For more than 15 years, Professor Hendershot has been teaching accounting and religion courses for Strayer students. He is licensed to practice accounting in Virginia, DC and Maryland, has 29 years of experience as a certified public accountant and is deeply dedicated to community involvement.

Mr. Hendershot is affiliated with the Greater Washington Society of CPAs (technical committee); Heritage Foundation (controller); Prince William-Greater Manassas Chamber of Commerce (chairman, treasurer); Prince William Health System Foundation’s board of directors (chairman); Leadership Prince William (co-chairman, treasurer); Manassas Rotary Club (chairman, treasurer); Prince William Parks Foundation (treasurer); Prince William Symphonic Orchestra (treasurer); American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants; and National Association of Tax Professionals (speaker). 

Paul J. Hutter currently serves as general counsel for the TRICARE Management Activity (TMA). Prior, he served as the chief of staff of the Veterans Health Administration in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). His long-standing career at VA includes serving as chief of staff for Secretary James Peake and as chief legal officer, where he advised the secretary and managed a staff of 700 throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Additionally, he has served as the Chief Operating Officer for a Department of Defense team to transition the interim government in Iraq (the Coalition Provisional Authority) to a U.S. embassy. In 2011, he was called to active duty to assist with the development of a military commission process to support the Global War on Terrorism. Prior to this, Mr. Hutter was a civil litigator in private practice in Honolulu, HI.

Mr. Hutter is a retired colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, where he served as an infantry officer and judge advocate for 30 years. He attended the University of Santa Clara Law School and has a master’s degree from Pepperdine University and LLM from The Judge Advocate General's School. He is a member of the bar of the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Hutter and his wife, Mary, reside in Virginia. Two of their three sons are Naval aviators and their eldest is a chef in Washington, DC.

Professor Jackson has been an adjunct professor since 2004, concentrating on corporate finance. In his “day job” he serves as the Advanced Technology Integrator (ATI) for Marine Corps Intelligence Programs at Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) in Quantico, VA. Prior to his work for the federal government, he spent eight years in early-stage private equity (venture capital), first as a director at The Redleaf Group and following on as a partner with Milestone.

Mr. Jackson began his career in the United States Navy, serving in various intel roles, primarily with the submarine fleet. Mr. Jackson has a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Penn State University and a master’s degree in business administration from The Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University. When time allows, he is a wine enthusiast and avid outdoorsman. He lives in Northern Virginia with, as he says “several plastic plants and piles of unopened mail.”

Ms. James has a bachelor’s degree in arts from California State University and a PhD from the University of Virginia. When she’s not teaching, Ms. James works as a professional writer. Her academic specialty is French history, having published at least 10 books on this subject, the most recent being The Complete Madame Guyon (Paraclete Press, 2011). She also writes on other subjects and at times works in journalism. Dr. James teaches English and writing at Strayer University and enjoys the interactive relationship she shares with her students. 

Professor Major has been an adjunct professor for Strayer computer students for more than 10 years. He is also retired from both the U.S. Navy and Electronic Data Systems (EDS).

Professor Major has assessed countless IT projects for correct System Design Life Cycle (SDLC) and Program Management (PM) methodology processes, and he has taught the system life cycle. His experience with Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) and Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) processes exceeds 20 years. In addition, he has worked intensively with corporate consulting groups, targeting company business objectives and government contracting offices. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Strayer University and a master’s degree in information system and engineering management from George Washington University. 

Born and raised in the Colorado mountains, Ms. Miller moved to southern Arizona with her Army husband, where her two daughters completed grade school and entered high school. She then completed an associate’s degree at a local community college before transferring to the University of Arizona, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in general biology. After a hiatus of a few years, in which she assisted in raising three granddaughters, Kathleen moved near Southern Illinois University, where she earned a master’s degree in biological sciences. Following a three-year teaching position at a community college in North Central Missouri, Kathleen moved to Virginia to live and work near her family.

Ms. Miller currently teaches biology classes at Strayer University, Northern Virginia Community College, and Valley Forge Christian College. She spends her time with family, in her painting studio, playing the piano, or reading. It’s no surprise to any of her students that this professor relishes sharing her love for life-long learning with her students and colleagues.

Dr. Nafisi has taught sociology at Strayer University since 1988. He served as humanities chairman for five years and associate dean for seven. For his dedication to our university, he’s received multiple awards, including 2011’s Excellence in Scholarship. Dr. Nafisi is an academic expert on Middle Eastern affairs. His latest book, Abarqu Reminisced, a collection of short stories in Farsi, was published in February 2013. He has also co-authored a number of books, including The Middle East: A Guide to Politics, Society, and Culture (Sharpe Publications, 2012); Engagement, Coercion, and Iran's Nuclear Challenge (USIP, 2010); and The Rise of Passdaran (Rand Corporation, 2009).

Dr. Nafisi is a regular contributor to news agencies and journals, such as Voice of America, Radio Farda, and the BBC. He is often tapped for analysis and insight from the likes of The New York Times, Reuters, and the Associated Press. Dr. Nafisi has a law degree from Tehran University and a PhD from Florida State University. 

Judge Potter is a circuit court judge for the 31st Judicial Circuit of Virginia. Prior to his election, Judge Potter practiced law for 16 years, specializing in civil and criminal litigation with the firm Compton, Compton and Potter. He has been certified as a diplomat of judicature by the American Academy of Judicial Education and lectures extensively at prestigious institutions such as Oxford University and the Institute for Magistrates in Paris. He has been an adjunct professor at Strayer University for more than 15 years.

Judge Potter’s professional affiliations include more than 25 years of membership and service in the American Judges Association and the American Judicature Society, and more than 40 years of membership in the American Bar Association, the American Trial Lawyers Association, the Virginia State Bar, the Virginia Bar Association, the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and the Prince William County Bar Association. He received his undergraduate degree from the College of William and Mary and his juris doctor degree from the Marshall-Wythe School of Law. 

When Professor Reid is not a Strayer adjunct professor of criminal justice, he provides financial compliance-consulting services through his own consulting business. This has kept him busy since his retirement in 2008, after 28 years in federal law enforcement. As the agency director of internal affairs for a division of the Department of Homeland Security, Mr. Reid directed field operations, serving as the special agent in charge of the Philadelphia and Washington, DC, field offices and as national manager for several investigative programs. Subsequent to his federal career, he was appointed by the Supreme Court of Virginia to serve as the supervisory magistrate of the Northern Virginia Region. Later, he lived and worked in New York City as a compliance director for Citibank. Professor Reid holds a juris doctor degree from George Mason University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in education from George Washington University.

While everyone else was shivering away this winter, I’ve been spending most of my time in sunny Florida working on my tan.  I look fantastic, I must say! 

While I’ll miss the awesome weather, now it’s time for a ROAD TRIP to Texas!!!  There’s nothing better than being on the open road and feeling the wind on my face.  I have my snazzy drivers to do all the work, so I get to relax and take in the sites.  I don’t even have to shift a gear!

Last weekend I got to check out the Tejano Spring Music Festival and next I get to hang out with the Blue Angels at an airshow.  I’m sure they’ll all want pictures with me and, of course, I’m happy to oblige.

I hope Texas is ready for me…this isn’t my first rodeo! 

As businesses become more reliant on technology, they also become more dependent on those who maintain and improve it.  Consequently, the job market for IT professionals continues to grow.

Importance of IT in a Business

The majority of companies, regardless of their focus, employ IT professionals.  From routine maintenance to website design, the expanding needs of different companies continues to drive the demand for IT specialists.  Additionally, the never-ending development of new hardware and software generates the need for employees with expertise in installation, networks, servers, and design.  The opportunities within IT are consistently on the rise.

Job availability

Nationwide, the IT job market has experienced steady growth.  The 34^th Annual SIM IT Trends Study surveyed some of the top IT professional from over 600 companies.  The study indicated that, over the past five years, the vast majority of companies have increased their IT budgets.  Furthermore, the study concluded that the majority of companies would increase their number of internal IT employees.  This translates to an increased number of IT related jobs.

Growing IT Markets

Healthcare IT is an area that is experiencing rapid growth.  Toms IT Pro, a valuable source for IT trends and information, has valued Healthcare IT certificates among the top in 2014.  World Economic Forum’s article The Top Internet and Technology Trends of 2014 detailed their predictions that the “mHealth market [will] be worth $11.8 billion by 2018.”  Additionally, “we can anticipate […] the personalization of the healthcare industry through technology and data.”  The article also indicated that e-learning is a growing trend.  TEKsystems Annual IT Forecast stated that other growth areas include mobile, cloud, and information security. 

Earning a degree Degree in IT sets individuals up for stability, high earning potential and a rewarding career in a field that is continually expanding and affording professionals new and exciting opportunities.  

Author bio: Jennifer Cook writes about online education, learning trends and student life for Strayer.edu. She loves it when teachers connect with students online, and she’s scrubbed her social profiles clean, just in case Big Brother is watching.

Listening to the roar of other cars engines fading behind me has always been music to my ears! With all my recent travels though, I’m learning to appreciate more traditional sounds.  

Over the past few months, I have had some of the hottest musicians around serenade me.  I’m usually right in front of the stage (obviously I attract lots of attention) and all these stars can’t take their eyes off me. 

I’ve revved my engine along to Little Big Town, Josh Turner, Charley Pride, AND Rascal Flatts.  Maybe my next gig should be going on tour with all these awesome country music stars.

Believe it or not, I’ve really gotten into Gospel music lately too.  Erica Campbell’s voice is AHHH-mazing!  I kept my engine quiet when she was singing because I didn’t want to steal away all the attention.  Everyone deserves some time in the spotlight.

I think I may have discovered the next big thing at the Tejano Spring Music Festival.  Talent knows talent and let me tell you, those guys were great.  Takes one to know one, after all. 

You know what though, there’s nothing better than listening to the cheers and giggles of children running around and having fun.  I guess I’m a big ol’ softie at heart!

Next stop…Wings Over South Texas.  I’ll bet those jets have nothing on me! 

There has been a longstanding debate on the importance of IT certifications.   While the lucky few may succeed without them, the current job market indicates that IT certifications are a highly desired addition to a degree. 

Finding the Right Certificates

There are multiple factors to consider when determining which certification to pursue.  What is your field of expertise within IT?  Would you like to transition to a managerial role?  What long-term goals do you have?  Is there a growing need for this skill?  All of these questions and more need to be taken into account when deciding which certification would enhance and expand your career opportunities.

Certifications in High Demand

Foote Partners surveyed the current job market and analyzed the salaries of IT professionals to determine which certificates are the most valuable.  The 2013 IT Skills Demand and Pay Trends Report stated that the following certifications were among the top:

1.     CWNP Certified Wireless Security Professional: The average salary for professionals with this certification rose 35% in 2013.

2.     CWNP/Certified Wireless Network Expert: The demand for this certification rose 42% in 2013.

3.     Oracle Certified Expert MySQL 5.1 Cluster Database Administrator: The value of this certification increased more than 37% last year.

High Paying Certifications

Based on the 2014 Skills and Salary Survey, there are three certifications that significantly increase earning potential.  They are:

1.     Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC): The CRISC certification is for those who manage, identify, and assess risks through information systems. 

2.     Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): This certification through ISACA is also focused on risk and is beneficial for those wanting to transitional to managerial positions.

3.     Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): This certification is ISACA’s oldest certification for professionals who audit, manage, and monitor information systems.

Training Industry’s article Are IT Certifications Really Important? reports that IT professionals who possess certifications position themselves for career growth.  Furthermore, certificates contribute to job security, which is a significant factor in a career field that is becoming increasingly competitive. 

There has been a longstanding debate on the importance of IT certifications.   While the lucky few may succeed without them, the current job market indicates that IT certifications are a highly desired addition to a degree. 

Finding the Right Certificates

There are multiple factors to consider when determining which certification to pursue.  What is your field of expertise within IT?  Would you like to transition to a managerial role?  What long-term goals do you have?  Is there a growing need for this skill?  All of these questions and more need to be taken into account when deciding which certification would enhance and expand your career opportunities.

Certifications in High Demand

Foote Partners surveyed the current job market and analyzed the salaries of IT professionals to determine which certificates are the most valuable.  The 2013 IT Skills Demand and Pay Trends Report stated that the following certifications were among the top:

1.     CWNP Certified Wireless Security Professional: The average salary for professionals with this certification rose 35% in 2013.

2.     CWNP/Certified Wireless Network Expert: The demand for this certification rose 42% in 2013.

3.     Oracle Certified Expert MySQL 5.1 Cluster Database Administrator: The value of this certification increased more than 37% last year.

High Paying Certifications

Based on the 2014 Skills and Salary Survey, there are three certifications that significantly increase earning potential.  They are:

1.     Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC): The CRISC certification is for those who manage, identify, and assess risks through information systems. 

2.     Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): This certification through ISACA is also focused on risk and is beneficial for those wanting to transitional to managerial positions.

3.     Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): This certification is ISACA’s oldest certification for professionals who audit, manage, and monitor information systems.

Training Industry’s article Are IT Certifications Really Important? reports that IT professionals who possess certifications position themselves for career growth.  Furthermore, certificates contribute to job security, which is a significant factor in a career field that is becoming increasingly competitive.  

Author bio: Jennifer Cook writes about online education, learning trends and student life for Strayer.edu. She loves it when teachers connect with students online, and she’s scrubbed her social profiles clean, just in case Big Brother is watching.

Wings Over South Texas was an incredible showing of speed and exhilaration.  The sky was filled with streaks and swirls as jets of all shapes and sizes showed off their skills.

The Blue Angels must have nerves of steel because their tricks were full of dips and dives designed to keep you on the edge of your seat!  During my racing days, I was so far ahead of the pack that I didn’t have to worry about any other cars invading my personal space but these guys were inches away from one another.  Talk about laser sharp precision.  I should think about doing something like this with some of my fellow NASCAR show cars, the problem is that none of them can keep up with me! 

Those jets are wicked cool.  All the ladies wanted pictures with them, although I think they were secretly more interested in the pilots than the planes (don’t tell the jets that though!).  I finally have friends who understand how difficult it is to be a celebrity.  Although…I do think the jets might be a little jealous because their pilotscouldn’t wait to snap pics with me. 

Hearing the powerful roar of some of the fiercest engines in town makes for one awesome weekend and fun times hanging out with my peeps!

Next stop…San Antonio!  Let’s see what sort of trouble I can get into at the Alamo.

Going back to school is among the bravest and most important steps you may ever take. One of the most frequently cited barriers to making the final decision is the question of how to pay for college. That’s especially true for non-traditional students. Take a deep breath. It may seem overwhelming, but as hundreds of thousands of students prove every year, it’s doable!

Student financial aid comes in many forms, and all options should be thoroughly explored. In particular, adult students often overlook the many scholarship opportunities available to them. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid. Don’t miss these opportunities.

There are billions of scholarship dollars available, some specifically earmarked for single parents, working adults, moms, minorities, military families and other non-traditional students and underrepresented groups. The more specific the scholarship criteria and the better you match that criteria, the lower the competition. Whatever narrows the field of applicants increases your chances.

Are you a low-income, single mother over the age of 35 looking to pursue an education in order to better yourself, your family, and your community? There’s a scholarship for that.

Are you a student who is a Farmers Union member from North Dakota? There’s a scholarship for that, too.

Do you love the art of vacuum coating? The Society of Vacuum Coaters Foundation has a $2,500 scholarship for you.

Maybe you’re aiming towards a particular field of study or are a cancer survivor or a veteran. There are likely at least a few scholarships appropriate for nearly every student. The trick is finding them and applying for as many as you can. But be true to yourself: if you don’t meet the requirements, don’t apply. Give yourself the best chance.

There are several free websites (avoid fee-based sites) dedicated to matching applicants with programs. You can browse over $3 billion worth of scholarships that could cover anything from thousands in tuition to a couple of hundred for expenses.

It’s also worthwhile researching local scholarships in your community, region, or state. Those may be less competitive than national programs. Also be sure to check with any organization that you are, or have been associated with to find out about available scholarships. Private companies, professional associations, and religious, nonprofit, and community organizations often offer scholarship programs that are less likely to have a high volume of candidates. Look behind every door.

And regardless of whether you’re applying for scholarships for non-traditional students specifically, or scholarships based on merit or financial need, make sure to:

• Follow directions carefully and leave nothing out.

• Research the funding organization, so you can directly appeal to its mission.

• Meet, or better yet, beat the deadline.

Scholarships for nontraditional students are out there, and someone’s going to get them. Why shouldn’t it be you?

Author bio: Jennifer Cook writes about online education, learning trends and student life for Strayer.edu. She loves it when teachers connect with students online, and she’s scrubbed her social profiles clean, just in case Big Brother is watching.

“Show us your boots!” … not something you hear every day unless you’re down south at the Fiesta San Antonio. I was lucky enough to recently get a front row spot at the Fiesta Flambeau and the Battle of the Flower Parades! Thousands gathered to see the king and queen courts ride down on elaborate and colorful floats covered in beautiful flowers. It seems to be a tradition for the women of the courts to lift up their fancy dresses just enough to show off their cowgirl boots. 

During my visit, I learned that the Fiesta Flambeau is considered to be the “Mardi Gras of Texas” so you can imagine the excitement of the crowd as the bands and floats passed by. The Fiesta Flambeau takes place at night, but the evening sky was lit up with flashlights that shined on the floats, dance teams, and marching bands, making the parade route brighter than ever!

Did I mention the pin collecting? The annual pin trading and collecting is just as elaborate and important as the Fiesta itself! I met one woman who has collected 35 pins, one from each Fiesta event she’s attended. Maybe she can turn one into a magnet so I can wear it on the front of my hood.

The community was fun, the weather wonderful, the parade impressive, and I got to meet a lot of great people. All in all, I’d say the Fiesta San Antonio was a hit!

Next stop…Memphis, Tennessee for the World Championship BBQ Contest!

At Strayer University, we’ve been educating working adults since 1892.  That’s over 120 years of helping people earn their degree and advance their lives.  Over the years, that promise has evolved to stay in touch with the times. We offered our first online class in 1996, and today, we offer a wide range of degree programs.

Here are five online degrees with the Strayer University touch that will prepare you for success in any career venture you pursue.

1. Master of Education – Instructional Technology

The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Instructional Technology is designed for the educators, and students, of the 21st century. As technological advancements enhance and impact our everyday lives, the latest developments are integrated into education to prepare students for success in a technology-driven society.

This degree teaches you skills to “enrich and transform” the educational experience by evaluating and integrating technology into the classroom. Some of the invaluable skills developed by the M.Ed. in Instructional Technology include:

• Instructional Design
• Curriculum Development
• Technology training
• Distance Education
• e-Learning
• LMS (Learning Management Systems) Management.

2.    Master of Science in Information Systems

Today’s global economy is immersed in technology and data and there’s an increasingly high demand for professionals trained in the management of information technologies. The Master of Science in Information Systems prepares you for work in many different industries. All businesses and organizations rely on the digital storage of information and the MS in Information Systems provides you with a diverse range of options for career growth.

Information systems professionals maintain extensive computer systems and databases and an MS in Information Systems will even prepare you to manage those networks. Tailor your program to your career goals with these concentrations:

• Computer Forensic Management
• Computer Security Management
• Enterprise Network Management
• Information Systems Management
• IT Project Management
• Software Engineering Management

3.    Master of Science in Management

A key principle of Strayer University’s mission to help adults advance their careers is instilling leadership. Effective leaders manage diverse teams of professionals with a solid educational background and the Master of Science in Management can help you excel at this. This degree focuses on developing natural leadership skills that will help you lead great teams.

Managers who ensure their teams work efficiently are invaluable to the overall success of a company. The MS in Management prepares you for becoming an integral part of a company’s well-being with three concentrations:  leadership, marketing management, and project management.

4.    Jack Welch Executive MBA

The Jack Welch Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) is geared towards professionals seeking to advance their careers while continuing to work. These students usually occupy a midlevel position and are looking to rise to even higher managerial or executive roles. Guided by Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric and founder of the Jack Welch Management Institute, this executive MBA integrates teachings from some of the world’s leading experts and prepares students for success in today’s business world.

5.    Jack Welch Executive Certificates

Jack Welch Executive Certificates prepare experienced professionals for growth and advancement. These certificates are shorter in length (6 weeks) than the Executive MBA, however they focus on quickly expanding your skills and reinforcing the knowledge you’ve gained throughout your practical business experience. The two Jack Welch Executive Certificates include

·         Becoming a Leader: for first-time managers that teaches students how to manage, motivate, develop and inspire their teams.

·         Creating a Winning Strategy: for students to learn how to analyze various factors and incorporate them into business strategies for their teams’ success.

The online degrees at Strayer University utilize cutting-edge technologies to deliver a quality education that empowers you to pursue the career of your dreams. These five programs are just several of a wide range—an example of the diversity and paths available. The focus of these degrees—learning technologies, information systems and management—demonstrate a combination of innovation and education that defines Strayer University’s commitment to advancement.

Does Slow and Steady Learning Win the Race?

Before online learning was commonplace, it was difficult for people to return to school once they began working. Financial constraints, as well as the need to relocate, rearrange schedules, and quit working, limited people’s ability to pursue their education. Fortunately, online learning has changed that.

Technology today allows universities to bring their degrees online, exposing them to an entirely new and potentially limitless group of students. No longer confined to traditional brick-and-mortar schools, students can receive a quality education online through interactive courses that match and expand on the classroom experience.

There are numerous benefits to pursuing an online education, a great one being flexibility. You no longer have to rearrange your life to get a degree. This is a common reason people choose online learning. US Newsinterviewed six students who chose online education. And while each student’s experience was vastly different—different ages, backgrounds, careers—a common thread was that their decision was based on flexibility. These are degrees that can work with you so they can work for you.

Learn Anything from Anywhere

There’s a reason online education is called “distance learning.” You can receive a degree from any school of your choice regardless of where you’re located. All you need is an Internet connection. Many people go this route because they are already established in their careers. They have jobs and families and those jobs are often needed to pay for school and contribute to their families.

What if your dream school or the university with the best program for you, is far away? Going to school on-campus requires staying local or relocating. While that may work for some people, for those who can’t, online education is a viable option.

Also consider that much of the cost associated with a traditional campus experience goes towards living expenses. The cost can be substantial but with an online degree those additional expenses are eliminated.

Your Education on Your Time

Your education should never be rushed, especially if you have chosen an online degree to accommodate your busy schedule. A 2012 U.S. Census Report on the findings of a 2011 American Community Survey shows that students at every level of education are working while in school—in fact, nearly 82% of all graduate students attend school part time so they can work. While it may take longer to complete your degree, it also ensures that you are not overwhelmed. There’s nothing wrong with taking fewer credits each semester and sometimes it’s the best way to complete your degree requirements successfully.

Oftentimes, if you have returned to school while you’re working, it’s so that you can attain skills necessary to grow in your industry. In this case, going to school part-time can be beneficial for your employer as well as for you, according to Idealist.org. Not only do you earn a living while earning an education, you’re able to work efficiently without stretching yourself too thin. And for your employer, the skills you’re learning can be applied to your work and contribute to the success of the company.

The beauty of online degrees is that you can access course content at your convenience. Flexible class schedules allow you to choose a time that works best for you and since the course content is available online as long as you’re participating actively and submitting assignments on time, you can review materials when your schedule allows.

Online education has revolutionized how we learn by helping students who previously did not have the time or the means go to school. The ability to work classes into your own schedule and complete the degree on your time eliminates having to put your life on hold and ensures that online learning, the slow and steady standard, always wins the race.

Financing your education can seem daunting, but fortunately there are a number of resources available. An education is a worthwhile investment for working students, paving the way to future success and helping you realize your dreams. The cost of tuition and other associated fees shouldn’t deter you from taking that first important step.

In addition to the financial assistance and tools we offer at Strayer University, private organizations offer scholarship opportunities as well. Staying on top of deadlines can be tough with a full schedule, but it’s important to keep an eye out for upcoming due dates. In case you missed any of these, here are 10 scholarships with fast approaching deadlines to apply to now!

1.   The Christopher W. Keyser Undergraduate Scholarship

Sponsor: Keyser Law Firm

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: July 31, 2014

Who Can Apply: Undergraduate students enrolled in a four-year college or university program, and are working towards a career in criminal justice.

About: Keyser Law, P.A. founded this scholarship to help students pursuing careers in the legal field or criminal justice because “great students will someday make great advocates”. Applicants must submit an essay between 1,000 and 1,500 words. More information can be found on the scholarship’s website.

How to Apply: Email submissions to scholarship@keyserdefense.com.

2.   Calum Ross Mortgage

Sponsor: Calum Ross Mortgage

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: July 31, 2014

Who Can Apply: Canadian or U.S. Citizens or permanent residents enrolled in a Canadian or U.S. university or college for Fall 2014. Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0.

About: Calum Ross Mortgage is a Toronto-based mortgage broker that believes in consumer financial literacy, and awards an annual scholarship to alleviate the financial stress of returning to school. Applicants must submit a 800-1,000 word blog post to a website or online forum, or post on their own blog, about the importance of financial literacy.

How to Apply: Download the application from the website, and mail all materials to the address listed on the site.

3.   Boomer Benefits Scholarship

Sponsor: Boomer Benefits

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: August 15, 2014

Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens who are over 50 years of age and currently enrolled in a two-year, four-year, or graduate program at an accredited college or university. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

About: The Boomer Benefits Scholarship was started to help people of the Baby Boomer generation returning to school in order to better themselves, change careers, or realize their lifelong dreams. This award is ideal for older students and there is special emphasis on applicants who exhibit a passion for serving others.

How to Apply: Download the application from Boomer Benefits.

4.   Linda Lael Miller Scholarships for Women Program

Sponsor: Linda Lael Miller

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: August 29, 2014

Who Can Apply: Women who are determined to improve their lives through education. They must be a legal resident of the U.S. or Canada and be attending or enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at a U.S. or Canadian institution.

About: Each year, New York Times bestselling author Linda Lael Miller awards 10 scholarships to women who want to pursue their education. This scholarship is unique because, in addition to tuition and textbooks, the funds can also be used to pay for transportation, childcare, and other related expenses. Applicants must submit a 500 word essay on how achieving her educational goals will better her future.

How to Apply: Download the application at the website.

5.   Xero 2014 Accounting, Economics or Finance Scholarship

Sponsor: Xero

Amount: $5,000

Deadline: August 30, 2014

Who Can Apply: Legal U.S. citizens or residents who are currently enrolled full-time at an accredited university or business school. Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.

About: Xero scholarship applicants must submit a letter of recommendation and an essay that answers the following question: “What compels you to study accounting, economics, and/or finance? What is your end goal, and how do you think you will make a difference in this field?” Xero is an accounting software company.

How to Apply: Email submissions to submissions@xero.com.

6.   The Versitas Education Scholarship

Sponsor: Versitas

Amount: $1,000

Deadline: August 31, 2014

Who Can Apply: Students with a minimum GPA of 2.7 pursuing a degree in the fields of business administration, human resources, management, or adult education from an accredited U.S. college or university.

About: To apply for the Versitas scholarship, students must submit an essay that answers the question “how will software training change over the next ten years?” Versitas is a corporate software training company.

How to Apply: Email submissions to scholarship@versitas.com.

7.   The Clubs of America Scholarship Award for Career Success

Sponsor: Clubs of America

Amount: $1,500

Deadline: August 31, 2014

Who Can Apply: Students attending an accredited college or university in the United States and have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.

About: The Clubs of America Scholarship is an award for students with a passion for education who are actively pursuing their career aspirations. Applicants submit an essay of at least 800 words discussing how the applicant’s current coursework will help them achieve future success.

How to Apply: Email submissions to scholarships@greatclubs.com.

8.   Domo Scholarship for Business Management

Sponsor: Domo

Amount: $2,500

Deadline: August 31, 2014

Who Can Apply: Students pursuing a degree in business and demonstrate an interest in analytics.

About: Domo is a cloud-based executive management platform with a dedication to preparing the business leaders of tomorrow. To apply, students must complete a survey and write a 200-word essay.

How to Apply: Apply here.

9.   Lexington Law Scholarship Program

Sponsor: Lexington Law

Amount: $10,000

Deadline: August 31, 2014

Who Can Apply: Current, full-time students enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.

About: Lexington Law is a leading credit repair consulting firm. Applicants must write an essay of at least 800 words that discusses “what a credit score means to them, how it impacts their financial future, and how they plan to obtain and retain a great credit score during their college years.” Visit the Lexington Law website for more information.

How to Apply: Email submissions to scholarship@lexingtonlaw.com.

10.   The Explore More Scholarship

Sponsor: DirecTV

Amount: $2,000

Deadline: September 1, 2014

Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents enrolled full-time at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university, as well as students enrolled in accredited graduate school programs.

About: The Explore More Scholarship is for students who recognize the importance of exploring the world around them in order to grow as individuals. Applicants must submit a 500 to 700 word blog post about how technology has helped them explore their world.

How to Apply: Apply here.

Disclaimer: “Strayer University has no relationship with the sponsors of the scholarships described herein, makes no representations about a student’s eligibility for said scholarships, and the University has no control over who is chosen to be the recipient(s) of each scholarship.”

Related Success Project Stories

Success Project 
Strayer University Welcomes Steve Harvey and the Success Project!
How to Work With Your Success Coach
Act Like a Success: 10 Steve Harvey Quotes on Success
10 Speeches That Will Inspire You to Succeed
The Benefits of Having a Success Coach
5 Things to Know About Online Education
The Successful Reading List: 15 Inspirational Books for Success
Unplug Nation: Tips for Curbing Digital Distractions
8 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Day
10 Scholarships to Consider Now
Managing Your Independence: Tips for Staying Focused between Quarters
How to Use LinkedIn for Your Job Search