Yoga Teacher Training Via Distance Education

Several private yoga centers offer yoga teacher training programs composed of on-site and distance education. Graduates may register as yoga teachers at the 200-hour and 500-hour level through the Yoga Alliance.

Overview of Yoga Teacher Training via Distance Education

Due to the hands-on nature of yoga practice, registered yoga teacher training programs are not available without some on-site training. Certain registered yoga programs, however, offer a portion of the training via distance education; this training segment entails reading assigned texts, looking up questions online and sending written answers via mail or e-mail. Some schools feature online discussion forums for periods when students are not studying on-site.
The Yoga Alliance, which registers yoga teachers and yoga schools in the United States, is a non-profit organization that was formed in 1999 to establish minimum standards for teaching yoga. It offers three levels of registration for yoga teachers, including Registered Yoga Teacher (200 hour), Registered Yoga Teacher (500 hour) and Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher. Standards for registration include providing teacher training certificates with documented on-site training hours and classroom teaching experience. Yoga Alliance registration is not legally required to teach yoga in the United States; however, registration is often pursued to lend credibility to teaching credentials (www.yogaalliance.org).

200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification

Teacher training programs at the 200-hour level are not available entirely via distance education due to the Yoga Alliance contact hour guidelines, which require 180 contact hours to become a registered yoga teacher at the 200-hour level. Students may conduct the remaining 20 hours through at-home writing assignments. These programs may be completed in a 30-day format or over a period of months at universities and private yoga schools. Topics include study of physical yogic postures (asana), breathing work (pranayama), yogic philosophy, meditation, prenatal yoga, yogic anatomy, manual adjustments, sequencing and more. Students conduct a minimum of ten practice teaching hours and graduates receive a 200-hour certificate of completion.

500-Hour Yoga Teacher Training Certification

Upon successful completion of a 200-hour certificate course, students may pursue the 300-hour training program, which leads to qualification for registry with the Yoga Alliance at the 500-hour level. These programs are generally on-site programs; some schools offer the 300-hour program through a mix of distance education and on-site training. Program formats for schools offering a distance education module include 1-2 week on-site training periods and independent study. During off-site periods, students complete reading and writing assignments, communicate with teachers via mail or e-mail and participate in online discussions. Most 300-hour certificate programs range in length from six months to three years.
This program expands on topics covered in the 200-hour course and emphasizes student teaching. Study topics include asana, sequencing, chanting, therapeutic applications, meditation, teaching ethics, business practice and advanced manual adjustments. Texts vary, but may include The Bhagavad Gita, The Ramayana, Trailguide to the Body, Yoga Anatomy and Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Students also complete 40 hours of supervised classroom teaching. Graduates of these programs receive a 300-hour certificate of completion.

Advanced Yoga Teacher Training via Distance Education

Longer programs, designed for in-depth study of yoga practice and teaching, may also be partially completed via distance education. These programs consist of intensive on-site practice periods and independent study, composed of personal practice, writing assignments and e-mail communication with teachers. Such programs offer up to 2,000 hours of training and may be used to gain Yoga Alliance teacher registration and continuing education credit.
Topics vary, but often expand on 500-hour program coursework and include the subtle body, interior body locks (bhandas), symbolic hand gestures (mudras), advanced nutrition, advanced therapeutics, ayurvedic principles. Additional classes cover include Sanskrit, Hindu cultural history, Tantra, the Vedas, the Upanishads, studies of Krishnamacharya and an apprenticeship with a master teacher.

Prerequisites for Online RN Programs: Info for Aspiring Students

Caring for sick and injured individuals requires a strong set of technical, interpersonal and medical skills. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that registered nurses (RNs) may be urgently needed in upcoming years due to nationwide staffing shortages as well as an increasing elderly population. Prerequisite coursework for aspiring RNs may be completed online. Read on to learn more about how to get started in this field.

Becoming a Registered Nurse

To become an RN, individuals must first earn an associate's or bachelor's degree or a postsecondary diploma in the field. The American Nurses Association asserts that the most common option is the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) followed by the Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN). Upon acquiring a degree or diploma, programs graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in order to ultimately gain the registered nurse credential.
However, many nursing degree programs require that applicants complete some prerequisite coursework before they can be admitted. According to a study published by the Research and Planning Group for California Community Colleges, prerequisites commonly include courses in English and math as well as science classes in biology, chemistry, microbiology, anatomy and physiology. The study also found that those who satisfied core prerequisites successfully completed nursing degree programs at higher rates than those who did not.

Fulfilling RN Degree Program Prerequisites Online

Taking nursing degree prerequisites online may mean that individuals can complete their studies more quickly once they enroll in an RN program. Distance education allows for scheduling flexibility, and enrollees are able complete their work from the comfort of home. There are a few options for completing prerequisites online.
One popular option is to enroll in individual online courses. Many institutions offer prerequisite nursing classes online, although they may not be listed as such. For example, completing any introductory anatomy class should suffice, even if it is not listed as a nursing prerequisite class. Some courses may ask for proof of high school graduation or its equivalent, while others have open enrollment to all who are interested. Prior to enrolling in prerequisite classes online, prospective students should verify that they can receive appropriate credit from the nursing degree or diploma program from which they hope to graduate.
In some degree programs, prerequisites are built into the curriculum but can be completed online before the student visits campus to enter the main component of the registered nursing training program. However, there are also dedicated pre-nursing programs on the Web. These typically cover all of the coursework needed to satisfy prerequisites, apart from a nursing degree program, but may be more costly or offer less scheduling flexibility than independent courses or taking prerequisites within a nursing program.
Although pathways to nursing differ for aspiring students, those who successfully complete online prerequisites, a nursing school program and the necessary steps to obtain licensure can land a successful career in a field that is high in demand in the U.S.

Career and Education Outlook for Aspiring Nurses

As of 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects all healthcare occupations to expand, but predicts that nursing jobs will expand more than any other occupation. The BLS predicts that 581,500 job openings for RNs will result between 2008 and 2018. The median annual salary of registered nurses was $62,450 as of 2008.
Registered nurses currently form the largest segment of healthcare workers combined, but there may be a shortage in the near future that will further provide opportunities for aspiring nurses. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), factors contributing to a persistent shortage of nurses include low nursing school enrollment to keep up with demand; however, the American Organization of Nursing Executives reports increased nursing school enrollment as of 2010. In order to address the shortage and to court prospective nurses, national initiatives have included offering accelerated degree programs for those with a bachelor's degree in another field, as well as scholarships and federal loan forgiveness programs.

Online X-Ray Technician Certification and Diploma Information

X-ray technicians, also known as radiographers, work in the field of diagnostic imaging. They prepare the patient and then perform the actual imaging process through the use of radiographic equipment. The resulting radiographs, or X-rays, are then given to doctors for examination and diagnosis. There are several hybrid programs that provide some online training in conjunction with clinical work that can prepare individuals for certification and licensing.

Associate's Degree in Radiography Overview

In many cases, this program is designed for individuals who have some prior radiography education. Depending on the school, it may be necessary for applicants to have graduated from a program that has been accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). Applicants may be required to have a certain amount of verified work experience in the field. Generally, individuals must have completed prerequisite courses in college mathematics and computer literacy.
Graduates are eligible to sit for state licensing exams as well as the certification examination administered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Successful test-takers are qualified for entry-level positions as radiographic technologists.

Program Information and Requirements

The program can take up to two years to complete. Part of the program is presented online by way of an Internet-based learning system, such as Blackboard. Hands-on, practical course requirements are generally satisfied by participation in externships at an approved clinical site near the student or where the student works.
Technical requirements include a computer with Internet access and an up-to-date browser and operating system. Most schools will post a list of the minimum specifications necessary to take their online courses.

List of Common Radiography Courses

Since this is a degree-granting program, a certain number of general education courses are required, including communications, mathematics and computer literacy. While the remainder of program requirements consists of a varied number of theory courses, the majority of radiology-related courses are taken up by clinical externships.

Fundamentals of Radiography Course

Ethics, nursing procedures and radiation safety factors are stressed in this orientation course. The theory and principles of X-ray methods and techniques are emphasized as well.

Positioning Courses

Generally, patient positioning is covered in a series of courses. Beginning with the upper extremities, chest, shoulders and lower extremities, students progress through the correct positioning procedures when dealing with the pelvis, spinal column, thorax and the gastrointestinal and urinary systems. This type of course usually involves on-campus lab sessions.

Imaging Course

This is a broad course that introduces the student to different modalities in imaging, such as fluoroscopy, computed tomography, thermography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Nuclear medicine and radiation therapy may also be explored.

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Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Medical Imaging Overview

Graduates of this program are prepared to become registered x-ray technologists and qualify for entry-level positions as diagnostic radiography practitioners. Prerequisites include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Although no prior radiology education experience is necessary, students typically must have completed courses in human anatomy and physiology, algebra or calculus, physics or chemistry, medical terminology and computer literacy.

Program Requirements and Information

In general, this is a full-time, 18-month program. The academic portion of the curriculum is delivered online, while labs and clinical rotations must be completed onsite at an approved location.
Technical requirements include a computer with Internet access, a sufficient operating system and browser and a CD-ROM drive. Communication is handled by e-mail and an Internet learning system such as Blackboard, which has features like message boards and chat systems.

List of Common Medical Imaging Courses

Onsite laboratories and rotations are interspersed with online didactic courses. Typically, the appropriate clinical practicum is timed to coincide with its related academic component.

Fundamentals of Radiologic Science Course

This introductory course in radiography illustrates the interdependence of the responsibilities of the radiographer with the policies and principles of the healthcare organization. Professional ethics as well as the relationships between patients, families and caregivers are examined.

Patient Care Course

Focusing on the emotional and physical needs and conditions of patients and families, students study the differences between routine and emergency procedures, as well as their applications. Infection control is also examined.

Equipment Course

In this course, students examine standard equipment used in medical imaging. In addition to an exploration of radiographic, tomographic and fluoroscopic devices, the construction, circuitry and electronic components of the machines are emphasized.

Radiation Biology Course

Students learn about the interaction between and the effect of radiation on living systems. Acute and chronic effects of radiation on molecules, cells, tissues and the entire body are studied.

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Certificate in Applied Science in Mammography Overview

Mammography is a specialization in the field of radiography. The program is intended to train and qualify individuals to become competent in the operation of customized X-ray equipment that produces low-dose, high-resolution images used primarily for the early detection of breast cancer.
In order to qualify for the program, applicants must be registered as radiographers with the American Registry of Radiologic Technicians. In some cases, applicants may be required to provide proof of employment in radiography. Graduates are prepared to sit for the ARRT national certification examination in mammography.

Program Information and Requirements

The program generally lasts one semester. Lectures and lessons are delivered online, while competency-based clinical components, which coincide with the lectures, are conducted at approved clinical sites near the student's home.

List of Common Mammography Courses

Breast Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology Course

Students learn the structure and parts of the human breast along with how they function. The causes, processes, development and consequences of diseases of the breast are explored.

Positioning Course

Students learn different methods and techniques of positioning the breast on a film plate in order to produce a specific image. Labs and clinical practice are typically an essential part of this mammography course.

Instrumentation Course

Students are instructed on recent developments in the use of different instruments, such as X-ray tubes and generators, that can be applied differently according to the breast's composition and thickness. Digital image receptors, stereotactic needle positioning systems and computer-aided diagnostic applications are among the areas studied.

Continuing Education Information

In many cases, X-ray technicians decide to become technologists; from that point, they may specialize in one type of imaging, such as computed tomography, MRI or mammography. Further academic training and additional experience can result in advancement to a supervisory or administrative position.

Career Information for Graduates

Although not legally required, voluntary certification is advised. Certification exams are administered by the ARRT. In addition, most states require licensure in order to practice as a radiologic technician or technologist. Although requirements can vary by state, many use ARRT exams for licensing purposes.
Career opportunities for radiologic technicians and technologists were expected to increase by 17% from 2008-2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). In June 2010, PayScale.com reported the average annual salary for radiologic technicians to be $41,961. Mammographers earned an average of $55,897, while medical imaging technologists averaged $54,594.

Online X-Ray Tech Schools: How to Choose

X-ray technicians, also known as radiologic technicians or radiographers, take diagnostic x-ray images of the internal human body as directed by a physician. Online bachelor's degree completion programs are designed for working professionals who already hold an associate's degree from an accredited school and certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).

How to Select an Online X-Ray Tech School

Program Type

An online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences is usually a bachelor's degree completion program since students already hold an associate's degree, and may be completed in 1-2 years. Classes are available online, though there may be a few practical assignments to be completed in the student's workplace. Students may participate in online interaction like student learning groups, live chat and discussion forums. Students typically access lectures and exams online and can set their own schedules.

Program Goals

Graduates of online schools in x-ray technology are generally prepared for supervisory or managerial roles in their field. These programs may also prepare students to become AART-credentialed in more than one imaging specialty. Upon graduation, students can also explore employment in medical equipment sales or teaching, both of which generally requires a bachelor's degree.

List of Online X-Ray Tech Programs

Online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences

An online bachelor's degree combines learning advanced x-ray imagining techniques with in-depth study of radiology department management. Students typically learn about computed tomography, mammography and fluoroscopy, as well as magnetic resonance imaging, sectional anatomy, patient assessment and proper positioning.
Online programs may offer students the opportunity to participate with classmates in virtual radiologic case studies. Courses in radiology quality management, patient care, health care law, professional ethics and service delivery are designed to help individuals develop leadership and management skills.
Required classes also may include statistics and research methods, critical reasoning, English and interpersonal skills. Students enrolled in a bachelor's degree completion program may be exempt from some of these courses depending on how much transferable coursework they've already completed. Some programs require that students complete a capstone experience synthesizing what they've learned as well as how it can be applied in a workplace setting.

Online X-Ray Courses and Classes Overview

Online x-ray courses are offered through many colleges for individuals interested in pursuing a career in radiology or updating their existing skills. Course topics include an overview of mounting and labeling radiography, radiation properties, film-processing techniques and image quality factors. Most x-ray classes, offered through distance-learning and hybrid programs, may result in a certificate or associate's degree.

Online X-Ray Courses

X-ray courses are available online; however, because comprehensive training often requires both clinical and classroom components, radiology certificate and degree programs are often not offered completely through the Internet. However, those who have completed certain x-ray classes online may earn certification by successful completing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam.
Degrees in this field include the Associate of Applied Science in Radiography, Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences or Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Graduates of radiology programs may find career opportunities as radiographers and x-ray technicians and work at a number of hospitals, clinics or other healthcare sites, including private medical, dental and veterinary offices.

Online Course Delivery Requirements

Students enrolled in online x-ray courses need a computer with access to the World Wide Web, preferably high-speed Internet and an e-mail address for instructor-student correspondence. They are also required to purchase software and textbooks if materials are not hosted entirely online.
Computers must have sufficient processor speed, RAM and media drives to support streaming audio and video. Headphones and speakers may also be required for two-way communication, depending on the course. Although most classes are completed asynchronously, students may be required to be online at specific times to take tests, participate in live class discussions or view Webinars.

Online X-Ray Courses Overview

Anatomy in Sections Course

This course teaches students the fundamentals of human anatomy and emphasizes the different planes involved in imaging, including axial, oblique, coronal and sagittal. Students learn to locate and identify the different body parts on a computer image.

Mammography Principles Course

Students learn the instruments used for mammograms, along with the basic principles of mammography. This course focuses on patient assessment and education, quality assurance, radiography instrumentation and the different techniques used in mammography. It addresses pathology, anatomy and image evaluation of the breast.

Orthopedic Hardware and Radiology Course

This course explains the radiologist's role in correctly interpreting orthopedic images, both pre- and post-operative. It also teaches specific examples of x-rays involving metallic devices and other medical hardware.

Radiology Life Support Course

Students are introduced to the life-threatening and unique emergencies that can take place in a radiology department. They learn to recognize and treat various emergency situations, care for sedated patients and provide basic life support, including proper airway management.

Online Wilderness First Aid Course and Class Information

There are no online courses in wilderness first aid, due to the hands-on nature of the training. There are short-term courses, however, which usually take no more than 2-5 days to complete. Wilderness first aid is necessary for those situations in which a medical emergency occurs in the backcountry, where emergency medical services may not be readily available.

Overview of Online Wilderness First Aid Course

Wilderness first aid courses are generally open to anyone over the age of 15 or 16. Completion of courses results in certification that usually lasts for 2-3 years, after which recertification courses are required. Courses are offered at both basic and advanced levels, and typically involve a written and practical application component. Field work drills or exercises in wilderness settings is also typically part of the course. College credits or continuing education credits may be earned through completion of first aid courses. Some occupations, such as forest ranger, paramedic or rescue worker, may require certification in wilderness first aid.

Course Requirements

Courses usually take place partly in a classroom setting, with the rest of the time typically spent in natural locations practicing drills and scenarios. Since the backcountry environment is a key focus of the courses, students should expect to spend class time learning in this setting. Students should come prepared with writing utensils and notebooks, appropriate clothing and a watch or other time-keeping device. Manuals and textbooks are usually provided. Other materials such as medical supplies and equipment are usually provided in the course.

List of Online Wilderness First Aid Courses

Basic Wilderness Course

This type of course is typically two days long, and is geared toward beginners with no previous experience. Students in this course learn how to assess and examine patients, as well as provide proper treatment for a variety of injuries. Treatment of head and spinal injuries, wounds and burns, and fractures and dislocations are topics covered in this course.

Advanced Wilderness First Aid Course

Advanced wilderness first aid courses usually run from 3-5 days, and are more medically comprehensive and detailed than basic first aid courses. This type of course is aimed toward those working in backcountry environments as guides or expedition group leaders. Students learn advanced splinting techniques for fractures and dislocations, lifting and moving extrication techniques and basic life support. CPR is typically only taught in advanced courses of this type.

Online Vocational Nursing Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

Vocational nurses work under the direction of registered nurses and physicians to care for disabled or injured patients, often in long-term care facilities, like nursing homes. Fully-online programs are not available for those interested in entry-level vocational nursing careers.

How to Choose an Online School for Vocational Nursing

Degree Options and Licensing Requirements

Fully-online degrees for prospective vocational nurses can't normally fulfill licensing requirements. Though requirements vary by state, all vocational nurses must complete the NCLEX-PN examination before being licensed to practice. Most states take direct responsibility for approving nursing schools and require all vocational nurses to graduate from an approved program before licensing.
Normally, states do not approve fully-online vocational nursing programs at all, though at times hybrid programs that allow students to take a portion of their class work online may be available. Prospective students should always check to see that a nursing school is approved by their state before attending. Hybrid programs specifically for practicing vocational nurses who wish to further their nursing education may also be available.

Program Flexibility and Scheduling

Because fully-online programs for vocational nursing are not normally available, students may have difficulty finding a program that fits their schedule. Normally, the online classes associated with a hybrid program do not have any particular schedule and may be completed at any time before a single class end date. Normally, these hybrid programs are designed to serve working adults, with in-person classroom sessions and clinical requirements scheduled for nights and weekends.

Online Program Options for Vocational Nursing

Online-Hybrid Certificate in Vocational Nursing

A hybrid certificate program in vocational nursing is normally designed for students who wish to complete their nursing education while still working full time. Students may be able to complete clinical requirements during nights or weekends, and in-person classes are often offered on the weekends. Common courses include cultural diversity and health care, nutrition, medical terminology, finance management and healthcare ethics.

Online-Hybrid Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

Online associate's degrees in nursing may be available specifically for practicing vocational nurses who wish to complete their nursing degrees and take the NCLEX-RN examination required of registered nurses. Normally, these degrees are also hybrid, but fully-online options may be available depending on the institution and the state. Common courses include nursing skills, mental health, child care and nursing jurisprudence.