For certain, 2021 will be a time of transition and the perfect time to grow your knowledge and skills. This year, gain a competitive edge and advance your professional position by starting or completing your degree program, or enrolling in a career development program like these former Cal State LA Downtown students have.Degree ProgramsCal State LA Downtown alumna Kimberly Medina was attracted to the Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing) Program (MSW-ASP) because of its advanced urban generalist focus that helps students master leadership skills to analyze, intervene and evaluate with diverse, underserved and oppressed clients and communities. This focus allows graduates to assume multi-faceted roles in the social work profession including advocacy and policy analysis. As a teaching University, the MSW-ASP program at Cal State LA Downtown places an emphasis on faculty and student interaction as its foundation, a key reason that the program ranks as one of the top MSW programs in Los Angeles County. Almost immediately upon graduation, Medina secured a position at Amanacer, one of Los Angeles’ largest mental health and case management agencies providing services primarily to Hispanic neighborhoods in central and downtown Los Angeles. “Social work is evolving to be more than what it’s been in the past in order to fix some of our nation’s social challenges in a new and exciting way,” says Medina. “Now, as a social work urban generalist, I am well-prepared to move beyond direct practice, to work toward just social policies, as well as conduct and apply research.” Financial assistance is available and application deadlines are approaching for Cal State LA Downtown master and bachelor degree programs that begin in summer or fall: Bachelor of Arts in Communication Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Wellness and Leisure Services Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing)
Career Development ProgramsA popular option at Cal State LA Downtown is the Certificate in Project Management program. The program addresses the growing demand and diversification in the project management field. In fact, by 2027, the Project Management Institute (PMI) predicts that employers worldwide will require 87.7 million additional project managers representing a variety of sectors. “Project management is a trending and highly desirable skill set because it enables employees to be more productive and enhance the success of project delivery, helping businesses execute their goals and objectives,” says Karen Van Kummer, program instructor. The program proved a perfect fit for Cal State LA working professional and Cal alumna Lea Fukutaki. After completing the course, Fukutaki received a promotion to senior project manager at Anthem, Inc. “The assignments and team projects exceeded my expectations and our instructor did a magnificent job of marrying theory with the workplace realities of project management,” says Fukutaki. This engagement and hands-on approach is critical for Van Kummer, who values collaboration and a sense of camaraderie with her students. “When people feel comfortable, they are more willing to engage, learn and grow.” A professional certification can set you apart from others. It increases efficiency, earning potential, builds professional credibility, and establishes you as a continuous learner. Many career changers turn these types of non-credit programs to get themselves into a new area, as well. Apply or register now for these career development programs that begin in winter and spring: Healthcare Revenue Cycle Administration Society of Human Resource Management Exam Preparation Strategies for Professionals: Improvisation and Acting Plan to participate in one, or more, of our live or prerecorded webinars. Each will provide program, application and financial assistance information. To learn more about all degree and career development programs, visit the Cal State LA Downtown website. Make 2021 a truly transformative year in your professional development. |
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