School Details
Fisher College is a private, not-for-profit school providing flexible and affordable education to students seeking associate’s through master’s degree programs. Each curriculum is designed to prepare students for a lifetime of professional pursuit, led by highly dedicated faculty. With a career-relevant education from FC, adults seeking to expand knowledge and skills in their field can find online programs fitting their specific needs.
Earn an online bachelor’s or associate’s degree in areas such as IT, criminal justice, education, and management. Courses are available 100% online, some in accelerated formats. Online certificate and professional studies programs are also available to the nontraditional student through Fisher College distance learning.
Online qualities at FC:
- Small class sizes
- Networking opportunities
- Experiential learning
Accreditation & Licensing
Fisher College is accredited by:
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
The Associate in Science degree in General Studies program provides students with a general education core required of all graduates and through its elective choices, allows maximum flexibility for students to discover and pursue career and personal goals. In completing the College’s core curriculum, students in this program will acquire general background in communications, social sciences, humanities, and mathematics and computer science. Working with academic advisors, the General Studies major will determine a program of liberal arts and non-liberal arts courses that meets individual interests and aptitudes as well as attends to career and further study.
Learning Outcomes
- Explore essential knowledge, perspectives, and methods across multiple fields of study.
- Communicate effectively through written, oral, and visual presentations.
- Demonstrate critical thinking to analyze and interpret philosophical and social issues.
- Perform accurate calculations using symbolic operations and provide meaningful descriptions of data.
- Identify personal connections between academic learning and professional goals.
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies program at Fisher College is an interdisciplinary program that combines courses in communication, advertising, public relations, journalism, and video production. The program considers media industries and their relationship to culture and society, and helps students develop a more nuanced understanding of how communication works. By emphasizing both theoretical and applied perspectives, students acquire the skills to become competent communicators and media literate consumers of informative and persuasive messages.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand how new technology, the economy, the legal system, business, and societal values influence our communication conduct and media industry practices.
- Conduct and apply relevant audience analysis research to message construction in order to achieve targeted communication goals and objectives.
- Construct professional communication messages in the written formats (ads, press releases, news stories, and blogs) commonly used in media industries.
- Prepare presentations informed by the traditions of rhetoric and the best-practice uses of presentation software.
- Develop web-page design or digital video production skills needed to communicate effectively in online media environments.
- Interpret and critique media texts from various humanistic methodologies and perspectives to better understand how messages are constructed and audiences interpret meaning.
The breadth of the Communication and Media Studies field major prepares students for a wide variety of careers: From corporate communication and not-for-profit business to support industries like advertising, public relations, journalism and broadcasting; communication graduates have numerous career options.
Whether pursuing a position in a specialized field such as health communication or sports communication, applying for city, state, and federal government jobs, or launching your career with an Internet start-up; the number of potential career paths a communication major can pursue is quite staggering! Every industry imaginable utilizes the Internet to grow their business and communicate with their customers.
The Bachelor of Arts in English Program at Fisher College will lead to a well-rounded student able to continue at even higher-level study or to begin a career. The program will produce a student who is knowledgeable in many areas within literature, in written and oral communication, in analysis and synthesis, and in problem solving.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify and interpret classic and contemporary works of literature written in English
- Utilize literary and historical theoretical analyses
- Organize, write, and present information in a researched and engaging manner
- Demonstrate strong writing and communication skills
Students who graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English can pursue careers in journalism, education, publishing, public relations, marketing, and many other fields that require writing and critical thinking skills.
The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts Program at Fisher College will lead to a well-rounded student able to continue to even higher-level study or to begin a career. The Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts program at Fisher will produce a student who is knowledgeable in many areas and is highly proficient in written and oral communication, in analysis and synthesis, in quantitative reasoning, in problem solving, and in data-driven decision making. In addition to completing the Fisher College core requirements in English and mathematics, the Liberal Arts graduate must successfully complete course work in communications, fine arts, history, foreign language, literature, science, intermediate-level writing, public speaking, and interdisciplinary study connecting at least the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences, and she/he must complete a senior project and internship.
Learning Outcomes
- Express ideas orally and in writing.
- Analyze data quantitatively and qualitatively and draw accurate inferences.
- Conduct research demonstrating information literacy.
- Demonstrate sufficient computer skills for success in college and employment.
- Produce effective research papers and presentations.
- Demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation of multicultural, including global, perspectives.
- Demonstrate a basic understanding of history and that discipline’s approaches to organizing knowledge.
- Demonstrate at least an elementary knowledge of and ability to use a language other than English.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the methods of inquiry and analysis both within and among traditional liberal arts and sciences disciplines (humanities, natural sciences, social sciences).
The successful Liberal Arts graduate has the skill, experience, flexibility of mind, and appreciation of diversity to move on to master’s and Ph.D. study, to begin employment, and to be a productive citizen. Potential careers can include (but are not limited to) teaching, communications, media, advertising, public service or law. Liberal Arts majors receive employment in government, non-profit, science, social science, music, theater, history, or language sectors.
Business
The Associate of Science in Business Administration provides students with a foundation in core business functions and the associated skills, knowledge and confidence to facilitate their entry into the business world or to pursue a Bachelor’s degree. This program is designed to enable first time college students to enhance their professional opportunities and open doors for advancement.
Students who complete the Associate in Science Degree in Business Administration at Fisher College can transfer at any time into the Bachelor of Science in Management program. The programs are designed to perfectly fit together perfectly so that every course taken for the associate degree is applicable to the bachelor’s degree.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and the ability to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the functional disciplines within business including accounting, finance, marketing, management and human resources.
- Perform common business functions with Microsoft Office products such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Communicate effectively and professionally utilizing various modes of business communications: written, oral and electronic. This will be demonstrated through written reports, oral presentations and the use of in class and project based electronic communications.
- Work collaboratively to solve business problems and analyze business decisions, demonstrating their strong analytical and decision making skills.
The Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management program at Fisher College is committed to providing educational excellence through carefully constructed, specialized, and functional human resource courses. This curriculum will provide a strong grounding in broad-based fundamental human resource management knowledge and skills to prepare students for meaningful and productive careers as human resource managers and professionals. Graduates will be able to combine the theory and practice of human resource management with an interpersonal/cross-cultural understanding of the diverse global environment.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe trends in the labor force composition and how they affect human resource management
- Describe the fundamental concepts and rules of law that apply to business activities, the employment function, and labor
- Demonstrate knowledge of human behavior in organizations and the role of management strategies, including motivational theory to influence behavior
- Communicate management decisions via written memos, revising employee handbook policy, and oral presentations
- Compare the common methods for recruiting and selecting human resources
- Summarize how to implement successful training and development programs
- Integrate teamwork, leadership and motivational skills to organizational scenarios and evaluate outcomes
- Explain the labor movement and its impact on businesses in the United States and worldwide
A Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management degree prepares students for opportunities and growth throughout their career. Most Human Resource jobs require exceptional people skills. The ability to communicate well (both speaking and listening) and to get along with all kinds of people (from the CEO to the temporary office staff) is key. An eye for detail and the ability to make decisions are also necessary.
Careers in Human Resources are varied and include the following positions:
- Chief Human Resource Officer (CHRO)
- Vice-President, Human Resources
- Human Resources Manager or Director
- Human Resource Business Partner
- Compensation Manager
- HR Project Manager
- Recruiter
- Global Compensation Analyst
- Employee Relations Specialist
- Benefits Administrator
The Fisher College Business and Management Degree programs and their concentration within the School of Management and Communication are united in their commitment to fundamental business knowledge and application of skills in support of professional opportunities. The curriculum combines theory with practical applications to ensure students acquire depth and breadth of subject matter and can apply what they have learned. All business degree programs must provide students with the access to academic and professional information that will prepare them for a career and continued professional growth within the business world and beyond.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and ability to:
- Analyze and apply the concepts and principles of the functional areas of an organization to inform business decisions.
- Organize data to examine the economic as well as the legal, ethical, and social responsibility of organizations in our society.
- Communicate in a professional manner in all organizational contexts.
- Demonstrate team work, leadership and motivational skills in a variety of organizational settings
- Examine global perspectives of businesses.
- Demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills in business and management scenarios.
Bachelor of Science in Management degree graduates are equipped to pursue careers in a variety of positions in private, government and not-for-profit organizations. Graduates of the program have secured employment in the fields of accounting, education, finance, health care, hospitality, manufacturing, marketing, retail and sales. Positions held by graduates range from a college registrar to an administrator of a major hospital. Additionally, students are given the skills necessary to pursue graduate business degrees, such as an MBA.
The explosive growth in Esports alongside the gaming industry has created a demand for business professionals with a strong understanding of the industry’s nuances. a Bachelor of Science in Management, Esports Management Concentration degree will graduate with the core sport and business fundamentals needed to work across industries while also having a leg up in understanding the sports industry and the growing role of Esports within it.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Management, Esports Management Concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives of the Management Degree, in addition to the following concentration-specific learning objectives:
- Identify strategies for how technology-based Esports companies accomplish their goals
- Explore the relationship that games play in society and the industry that produces them
- Detail the role of the publisher and explore the complexities involved in promoting games and bringing them to the market
- Recognize the part conventions and trade shows play in the marketing efforts of Esports and gaming companies
Growing gaming companies and Esports leagues involve a variety of key stakeholders, including game publishers, sponsors/advertisers, leagues, and teams. As the ecosystem continues to experience rapid growth, participating companies need capable marketing, sales, and operations professionals. Example career pathways could lead to becoming a Product Marketing Manager, Business Operations Analyst, Social Media Manager and even a Head College Coach.
The Bachelor of Science in Management Degree with a concentration in Project Management provides students with a broad background in business with specialized skills in the field of project management. As innovation disrupts almost every sector, companies need to constantly develop new ideas that will power their business into the future. Project Managers are the central figure that turns those ideas into strategy and implementation. Employers looking for project managers highlight the importance of well-rounded professionals who exhibit both the human skills of leadership and communication as well as the technical skills to lead successful projects.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM), Project Management Concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives of the BSM, in addition to the concentration-specific learning objectives:
- Assess the application of waterfall and agile methodologies for different projects within a business context, and justify their decisions as well as any associated financial investment.
- Construct detailed project plans that take into account scope, resource constraints, dependencies and quality assurance.
- Ensure quality of execution for a given project and execute projects that adapt to changing circumstances.
- Demonstrate adaptable project management skills with an extensive simulated project, and articulate ethics and scalability considerations.
Popular career pathways include IT Project Manager, Construction Project Manager, and Marketing Project Manager.
The Bachelor of Science in Marketing program is designed to educate students in the core fundamentals of marketing and prepare them for the jobs that are in high demand in the field. This program challenges students to analyze marketing situations, problem solve complex scenarios, and generate creative solutions in order to provide value in a rapidly changing market place. The marketplace is constantly changing—consumer preferences are shifting and technology is enabling advances in marketing communications and distribution methods. A successful marketing manager in this dynamic environment will need quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, and decision-making skills to diagnose problems, identify opportunities, and create effective strategies.
The Fisher College marketing program’s mission is to develop graduates who possess such knowledge and skills. Additionally, the program will train students to be able to communicate their analyses and solutions effectively in writing and orally.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and ability to:
- Analyze and apply marketing principles to inform marketing decisions.
- Apply critical thinking skills to domestic and global marketing scenarios.
- Analyze data and information found in marketing situations using accepted quantitative and qualitative methods.
- Demonstrate appropriate communication strategies needed to meet the requirements of leadership and managerial situations.
- Assess the effects of consumer psychology theory and practice on consumption and marketing.
- Evaluate courses of action at strategic and tactical levels in marketing.
- Define and explain the value of brands and brand equity to organizations.
- Integrate traditional and digital marketing into marketing campaigns and measure key performance outcomes.
Bachelor of Science in Marketing graduates can pursue a marketing career in any business or organization that needs to market its goods and services, including goods manufacturers and service providers such as banks, non-profits, healthcare, hospitality, and legal firms.
Marketing graduates also have opportunities to work for agencies that provide marketing services, such as marketing research, branding, social media content, digital marketing, and marketing consulting.
The Bachelor of Science in Marketing degree with a concentration in Digital Marketing will provide students with a broad background in marketing with special emphasis on the digital tools that take increasing importance in the economy. While traditional advertising channels such as newspapers and radio are in decline, the world of digital marketing has exploded. Significant marketing dollars are now being spent through online channels and employers are prioritizing candidates with digital marketing skills. The Digital Marketing concentration provides the most vital and in-demand skills for reaching customers and growing product.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Digital Marketing Concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives of the Bachelor of Science in Marketing, in addition to the concentration-specific learning objectives:
- identify marketing opportunities and create cross-channel marketing strategies to meet those opportunities.
- design, justify and assess the impact of campaigns across the full range of popular digital channels.
- build effective content marketing strategies and support them with fundamental content creation skills, such as copywriting.
- assess the effectiveness of cross-channel campaigns in relation to broader business objective
Popular career pathways include Digital Marketing Manager, Marketing Analytics Specialist, Social Media Manager, and Content Strategist. Marketing Specialists, Product Managers, Social Media Strategist/Specialist, E-Commerce Analyst, Market Research Analyst, Marketing Assistant.
Computer Science & IT
Computer Technology is a rapidly growing and dynamic field that will give students opportunities to build robust careers. Students in this program will learn basic computer applications and programming skills that will be valuable in any work place.
The mission of the Associate in Science in Computer Technology program with a focus in Cybersecurity is to prepare students for entry-level positions as cybersecurity associates. The Cybersecurity curriculum is designed for the student who is interested in obtaining a foundation in computing concepts and networking management practices.
Learning Outcomes:
- Make informed judgments and include unique perspectives of others in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Identify and analyze user needs and consider them during the selection, integration, and administration of computer-based systems
- Apply security principles and practices to the environment, hardware, software, and human aspects of a system.
Computer Technology is a rapidly growing and dynamic field that will give students opportunities to build robust careers. Students in this program will learn basic computer applications and programming skills that will be valuable in any work place.
The mission of the Associate of Science in Computer Technology program with a focus in Web Development is to prepare students for entry-level positions as web designers. The Web Development curriculum is designed for the student who is interested in obtaining a foundation in computing concepts and web application design and development using current software development and information management practices.
Learning Outcomes:
- Make informed judgments and include unique perspectives of others in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Identify and analyze user needs and consider them during the selection, integration, and administration of computer-based systems
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of a software solution.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program at Fisher College is committed to providing educational excellence through a carefully constructed computer science core curriculum and selective concentrations. This curriculum will provide a strong grounding in broad-based fundamental technical knowledge and skills to prepare students for meaningful and productive careers are Systems and Security Analyst, Network and System Administrators, and Software Developers and Programmers.
We make use of and build on the liberal arts foundation to develop students who have strong analytical skills, and who can think, write, and communicate clearly and effectively. Graduates will be able to combine the applied technical skill they have learned with an interpersonal/cross-cultural understanding of the diverse global environment in which we live, and will be prepared for professional careers.
Students hone their problem-solving skills, technical and analytical skills through programming projects and technical labs. They build on their understanding of how hardware and software function through a consistent curriculum that continually adds to the student’s technical skill set. The Information Technology program focuses on the active involvement of the student in the learning process and the effective application of computer science theory through which a proactive program of experiential opportunities. Such tasks as lab simulations, scientific research, team presentations and programming projects in a variety of information technology settings that allow the students at Fisher to combine theoretical “classroom” knowledge with practical, real-world experience.
The Cybersecurity concentration of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program is designed to give students an understanding of information privacy, security, and risk in any modern business or other organizations. Students will gain a solid foundation in cybersecurity, while also studying information technology and computer science fundamentals. This program enables students who have an interest in defending systems and software to gain the skills required to work as an Information Security or Computer Systems Analyst.
By the completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Apply security principles and practices to the environment, hardware, software, and human aspects of a system.
- Analyze and evaluate systems with respect to maintaining operations in the presence of risks and threats.
With a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity, students will be well positioned to obtain a job in the cybersecurity specialization of information technology sector working in corporations, government or non-profit organizations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for students in this concentration between six and twenty-eight percent annually.
Examples of post-graduate positions would be:
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator
The Game Development concentration of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program is designed to give students an understanding of the development of computer and mobile two and three dimensional games. Students will gain a solid foundation in game development, while also studying information technology and computer science fundamentals. This program enables students who have an interest in gaming to gain the skills required to work as an independent game developer or on a team as a computer game programmer.
By the completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of two-dimensional (2D) computer and mobile games
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of three-dimensional (3D) computer and mobile games
With a concentration in Game Development students will be well positioned to obtain a job in the game industry or working as an independent developer.
Examples of post-graduate positions would be:
- Computer Game Programmer
- Independent Game Developer
The Software Engineering concentration of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program is designed to give students an understanding of the full lifecycle in the development of distributed and mobile computing software. Students will gain a solid foundation in software engineering, while also studying information technology and computer science fundamentals. This program enables students who have an interest in software development to gain the skills required to work on a software development team.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Software Engineering concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives of the BS in Information Technology in addition to the following concentration-specific learning objectives:
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of distributed computer software.
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of mobile computer software.
With a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Software Engineering, students will be well positioned to obtain a job developing software in corporations, government or non-profit organizations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth for students in this concentration between nine and eleven percent annually.
Examples of post-graduate positions would be:
- Software Developer
- Database Administrator
- Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Technology is a rapidly growing and dynamic field that will give students opportunities to build robust careers. Students will learn basic computer applications and programming skills that will make be valuable in any work place. Motivated students can even use the credits they earn towards an Associate’s Degree in Computer Technology.
The Web Design curriculum is designed for the student who is interested in obtaining a foundation in computing concepts and web application design and development using current software development and information management practices.
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify and analyze user needs and consider them during the selection, integration, and administration of computer-based systems.
- Apply design and development principles in the construction of a software solution.
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
The Associate in Science in Criminal Justice program provides students with an academic foundation for entry-level careers in law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice in either the public or private sector. Because these careers require working closely with a diverse public, experiencing a variety of social difficulties, the curriculum provides a strong foundation of social and behavioral science courses. Through a combination of courses in criminal justice, psychology, and sociology, students gain an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of the field, as well as an understanding of the processes by which behavior comes to be labeled as deviant/ criminal and methods of social control. Students gain a strong foundation in writing, learning how to write police and probation reports, as well as more scholarly writing. The Associate in Science degree program prepares students for a seamless transition into the Bachelor of Science degree program.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and the ability to:
- Discuss the development and philosophies of the disciplines of the criminal justice system as they relate to both adults and juveniles
- Describe and analyze the present day role, responsibilities, authority, and practices of the disciplines of the criminal justice system
- Demonstrate competency in understanding the nature of the relationship between and among the disciplines of the criminal justice system
- Explain the social and political forces which impact the criminal justice system, its practitioners, and its clients
- Discuss key theories of criminal behavior
- Apply professional standards of writing and research to criminal justice issues
- Demonstrate professional competencies to meet the needs of career opportunities and requirements for employment in the disciplines of the criminal justice system
Criminal justice is a broad field, encompassing everything from traditional work in local law enforcement, courts, and corrections to privately run non-profit intervention and prevention programs. Graduates from Fisher College’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program enter the workforce with a strong social science background that prepares them for traditional criminal justice careers, careers as crime analysts and policy analysts, and further education at the graduate level.
Learning Outcomes
- Discuss the development and philosophies of the disciplines of the criminal justice system as they relate to both adults and juveniles
- Describe and analyze the present day role, responsibilities, authority, and practices of the disciplines of the criminal justice system
- Demonstrate competency in understanding the nature of the relationship between and among the disciplines of the criminal justice system
- Explain the social and political forces that impact the criminal justice system, its practitioners, and its clients
- Analyze the theories of crime and deviance and critique the effectiveness of their practical application to behavioral changes
- Apply professional standards of writing and research to criminal justice issues
- Discuss the ethical theories and the values that guide criminal justice professions
- Demonstrate professional competencies to meet the needs of career opportunities and requirements for employment in the disciplines of the criminal justice system.
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program prepares students to enter a variety of careers that utilize the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during their course of study. Although many graduates may wish to pursue careers in the more traditional fields of law enforcement, corrections, and the court system, students today can take advantage of a wealth of opportunities. Careers in research, crime analysis and computer forensics, are growing in popularity, as are careers that combine interests in criminal justice and psychology/human services, such as offender re-entry; intervention with at-risk youth; and legal advocacy for victims.
Computer Technology is a rapidly growing and dynamic field that will give students opportunities to build robust careers. Students will learn basic computer applications and programming skills that will make be valuable in any work place. Motivated students can even use the credits they earn towards an Associate’s Degree in Computer Technology.
The Cybersecurity curriculum is designed for the student who is interested in obtaining a foundation in computing concepts and networking management practices.
Learning Outcomes:
- Make informed judgments and include unique perspectives of others in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Identify and analyze user needs and consider them during the selection, integration, and administration of computer-based systems
- Apply security principles and practices to the environment, hardware, software, and human aspects of a system.
Fisher College’s MBA in Strategic Leadership program changes the lives of business professionals by preparing them for greater career success through the practice and application of knowledge and skills used by highly successful business professionals. The overarching purpose of the MBA core individual student learning outcomes is to better prepare graduates for positions of increasing levels of responsibility in a business.
The Cyber Security Management concentration is for business professionals interested in developing their skills in the area of cyber security management. The concentration teaches core skills required in the areas of principles of cyber security management, financial decisions making in cyber security management, and the operational aspects of cyber security management. The focus will be on the business side of cyber security and keeping assets safe from intrusions.
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice at Fisher College is designed to prepare professionals for career advancement and for positions in specialized units. Our program also prepares students for doctoral programs by enhancing their academic research and professional knowledge. The Masters of Science in Criminal Justice helps students develop the necessary problem-solving skills to address contemporary and evolving problems with innovative, ethical, and evidence-based solutions.
This program is completed entirely online. This is a 30-credit program, so it can be completed in a few as 10 months. A unique quality of this program is that students do not need to have a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or work experience in criminal justice to gain admission or succeed in the program. Therefore, this program is for criminal justice professionals and aspiring criminal justice professionals alike.
After completing the Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ), students will be able to demonstrate:
- Comprehension of criminological theory, its relationship to criminal justice practices, and its ties to social, political, and economic factors
- Proficiency in research design, both quantitative and qualitative, as well as, the ability to use research design to evaluate criminal justice policies and programs
- Comprehension of ethical theories and their application to criminal justice practices, policies, programs and research, as well as, the ability to evaluate and resolve ethical issues in the field of criminal justice.
- The ability to synthesize scholarly sources to evaluate criminal justice programs and policies, recognize policy and program implications, and guide policy and program decisions.
- An understanding of leadership theories and their role in managing and leading criminal justice agencies.
- Critical thinking and problem solving skills to address contemporary problems in criminal justice using innovative, ethical, and evidence based solutions.
Education
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program at Fisher College provides comprehensive educational opportunities for students to develop abilities needed for career advancement. The framework that guides the ECE program at Fisher College is rooted in developmentally appropriate and best practice with children and adult learners, including being an intentional teacher, creating a community of learners, teaching to enhance development and learning, planning curriculum to achieve important goals, assessing children’s development and learning, and establishing reciprocal relationships. The program recognizes diverse learning styles and provides supportive and flexible learning environments where student success is of primary importance. Student will be continuous, collaborative learners who demonstrate knowledgeable, reflective, and critical perspectives on their work, making informed decisions that integrate knowledge from a variety of sources. Students will be informed advocates for sound educational practices and policies.
This program is comprised of courses and practicum experiences that provide a solid background and preparation for a career as a child care professional. Students entering the Early Childhood Education Program are required, by the Massachusetts Department of Early Childhood Education and Care, to pass the CORI, SORI, and finger print screening before beginning their practicums.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and the ability to:
- Develop a solid content knowledge base in child development theories that enables them to deliver effective educational and professional services based on current research, theory and practice.
- Design, implement and evaluate environments and curriculum activities that support positive, developmental play and learning for all young children.
- Demonstrate the skills to establish and maintain positive collaborative relationships with families.
- Identify informal assessment strategies to plan and individualize curriculum to meet the needs of each child physically, socio/emotionally, linguistically, cognitively, creatively and in a culturally appropriate manner.
- Develop and implement strategies that promote partnerships between programs, teachers, families, and their diverse communities.
- Identify and demonstrate ethical guidelines and other professional standards related to early childhood practices.
This program offers excellent preparation for a career in any child-care profession through a program with a broad base of theoretical and practical knowledge. Courses in this program follow the development of the child from birth through the preschool years. The intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development of the child is explored, as are the needs experienced by children as they progress through these ages.
This degree program is comprised of courses and practicum experiences that provide not only a solid academic background for the student, but also a thorough preparation for a career as a child care professional. Our program satisfies course requirements for teacher certification by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) and competencies for the Child Development Associate Credential (CDA). Students entering the Early Childhood Education Program are required, by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, to pass the CORI, SORI, and finger print screening before beginning their practicums.
You can learn to support children from birth to age eight with the BA in Early Childhood Education & Care from Fisher College. This online early childhood education bachelor’s degree follows standards set by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
The online curriculum imparts reflective thinking, which leads to effective decision-making. The courses and fieldwork highlight best practices and advocacy around language, family, society, and culture.
Besides learning strategies for children’s behavior, you will study such topics as:
- Children with special needs
- Language and literacy
- Planning environments for young children
- Child development
You can train to become an exemplary early childhood educator with the Certificate in Early Childhood Education from Fisher College. This online program presents the most current skills and knowledge to cultivate the needed disposition to work with young children.
Those who complete the online early childhood education program can enter the workforce or transfer to the Associate in Arts degree. Students chose a focus area from such topics as:
- Infant and toddler
- Preschool
- Family childcare
Advance your career as an Early Childhood Educator, Policy Advocate, Administrator and more with the specialized MEd at Fisher College. This flexible online program can be completed in as little as 14 months of full-time study, or you can take courses on a part- time basis alongside your existing professional commitments.
Our flexible online MEd for working professionals allows you to study full time to graduate in just 14 months, or you can opt for a manageable part-time course load alongside your work schedule. Combine courses at your own pace to earn an MEd without interrupting your professional trajectory.
Diversify your professional prospects with an MEd in Early Childhood Education. Whether you plan to advance in your current organization or pursue new opportunities in administration, policy or advocacy. Fisher College’s online program prepares you to thrive. Employers respect degrees, which demonstrate your ability to prioritize tasks, work in a variety of settings, and invest in your professional development.
Healthcare
The Fisher College Health Information Technology Program will provide the curriculum to prepare individuals with the knowledge and skills to process, analyze, abstract, compile, maintain, manage, and report health information. Graduates will have a strong foundation in maintaining components of health information systems consistent with medical, legal, accreditation, and regulatory requirements of the health care delivery system.
The Health Information Technology (HIT) program places students where the expanding arena of health care meets the cutting edge of technology. HIT related job opportunities are excellent, with options to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, health centers, medical research organizations, consulting firms, long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, insurance companies, software companies, and government health agencies.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and the ability to:
- Demonstrate effective, professional written and oral communication skills with consumers and co-workers.
- Use and apply critical thinking skills and basic health information management principles to recognize, analyze, and solve problems.
- Perform and interpret math calculations related to descriptive healthcare statistics.
- Use current technology to access and process health information.
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level health information competencies.
- Practice in a legal, ethical, and professional manner by demonstrating responsibility, initiative, and positive attitudes toward those of diverse backgrounds and to work in teams in a healthcare setting.
Graduates of the Health Information Technology program are eligible to apply for the RHIT credential with successful completion of the credentialing exam. Exam information and resources are provided through the AHIMA website. Students are encouraged to keep all textbooks and study materials, and participate in the RHIT Exam Prep course to help prepare for the exam.
The Bachelor of Science in Management Degree with a concentration in Health Information Management develops functional management knowledge and skills combined with a broad overview of issues and challenges specific to the complex field of information management. Graduates will have a solid foundation of knowledge in data content and structure, legal issues, healthcare reimbursement systems, and performance improvement methods required to meet the needs of the industry.
The program focuses on the active involvement of the student in the learning process and the effective application of management theory through a proactive program of experiential opportunities. Such tasks as simulations, library research, team presentations and computer projects in a variety of healthcare management topics allow the students to combine theoretical “classroom” knowledge with practical real-world experience.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM), Health Information Management concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning objectives of the BSM, in addition to the following concentration-specific learning objectives:
- Collect, analyze, monitor, maintain, retrieve, and report healthcare data in accordance with quality assurance principles
- Use critical thinking as a framework for decision making in information systems issues in a variety of settings
- Communicate and collaborate effectively with clients, and members of the health care team
- Practice in a legal and ethical manner exhibiting accountability for all actions
- Synthesize knowledge from health information management and other disciplines to promote optimal information system function.
Health information management (HIM) professionals work in a variety of different settings and job titles. They often serve in bridge roles, connecting clinical, operational, and administrative functions. Some career opportunities will include titles such as HIM Project Manager, Data Quality Manager, Revenue Cycle Manager, Privacy or Compliance Officer, HIM Department Director, Health Information System (HIS) Application Designee, or Coding Manager.
The Bachelor of Science in Management Degree, with a concentration in Healthcare Management, develops solid functional management knowledge and skills combined with a broad overview of issues and challenges specific to the complex field of health care delivery. Emphasis of instruction will be on developing the managerial skills required to work in today’s regulated, complex health care field. Graduates will have a solid foundation of knowledge in legal issues, marketing, financial accounting, health care reimbursement systems and performance-improvement methods required to meet the challenges of increasing quality while decreasing cost in health care delivery.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare delivery systems along with the associated operational and financial aspects associated with each
- Explain the legal and regulatory environment in healthcare and implications for managers within the field
- Recognize important external and internal factors and trends impacting the industry and be prepared to assess current policies as well as recommend and adopt changes as needed
- Examine the dynamic nature of healthcare administration and demonstrate the problem solving and leadership skills to manage resources as needed within this environment
Bachelor of Science in Management with a concentration in Healthcare Management degree graduates are equipped to pursue careers in a variety of positions in private, government and not-for-profit organizations. Graduates of the program have secured employment at hospitals, convalescence homes, rehabilitation facilities, and health insurance agencies. Positions held by graduates range from claims associates to hospital administrators Additionally, students are given the skills necessary to pursue graduate business degrees, such as an MBA.
This Medical Coding Undergraduate Certificate program prepares students for challenging coding positions in hospitals, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers, insurance companies and other settings which diagnostic and procedural data are coded for reimbursement purposes. This certificate program is designed to be completed fully online, and most credits in the certificate program are applicable to the Associate of Science degree in Health Information Technology.
Graduates of the Medical Coding Certificate program distinguish themselves in the field by advancing to become certified professionals. Students may choose to complete the certification exam to become a Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS).
Fisher College’s MBA in Strategic Leadership program changes the lives of business professionals by preparing them for greater career success through the practice and application of knowledge and skills used by highly successful business professionals. The overarching purpose of the MBA core individual student learning outcomes is to better prepare graduates for positions of increasing levels of responsibility in a business.
The Healthcare Management Concentration is for healthcare industry professionals interested in career advancement and for those individuals who have a strong desire to excel in the healthcare management environment. The concentration teaches core skills required of all healthcare managers in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving field.
The concentration is designed to meet the increasing opportunities for trained and prepared healthcare managers. It provides professional growth for clinicians and non-clinicians alike and helps prepare individuals for a myriad of new roles with increasing responsibility.
Psychology & Human Services
The Associates in Arts Psychology program at Fisher College provides students with a solid background for pursuit of a baccalaureate degree in psychology. Core psychology courses, psychology elective, and statistics and research prepare the student to enter the upper-level baccalaureate courses. Interested and eligible students can seamlessly continue into the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Fisher College. This degree also provides an adequate base for the student entering other majors, particularly in the social sciences.
This program will provide students with the opportunity to develop the following competencies and ability to:
- Describe the development of children, adolescents and adults over the course of a lifespan, including their cognitive, emotional, psychological, social, and physical development within a socio-cultural context.
- Demonstrate an understanding of psychological theory.
- Demonstrate an understanding of psychological research by having learned how to identify, conduct, and critically evaluate quantitative and qualitative studies used throughout the psychological studies.
- Demonstrate familiarity with issues of ethical principles in psychology.
- Use critical thinking skills professionally in everyday life.
The Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at Fisher College provides students with a solid background in the scientific study of human behavior, both individually and within society. The program helps students understand themselves and others, while also helping students acquire a wide range of interpersonal skills, as well as develop their expertise in reading, writing, conducting research, and critical thinking.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the development of children, adolescents and adults over the course of a lifespan, including their cognitive, emotional, psychological, social, and physical development within a socio-cultural context.
- Demonstrate an understanding of psychological theory.
- Demonstrate an understanding of psychological research by having learned how to identify, conduct, and critically evaluate quantitative and qualitative studies used throughout the psychological studies.
- Demonstrate familiarity with issues of ethical principles in psychology.
- Demonstrate an awareness of multicultural issues such as race, culture, ethnicity, gender, social economic status, sexual orientation, religion, and spirituality, and its impact on the individual.
- Discuss the purposes, history, and contributions of psychology.
- Demonstrate an understanding of a variety of mental processes, including areas such as perception, imagery, language, problem solving, reasoning and decision-making.
- Use critical thinking skills professionally in everyday life.
Graduates with a degree in Psychology can obtain jobs in a variety of settings, including child care, social service agencies, drug treatment centers, youth and adult residential care centers, crisis centers, community mental health centers, senior citizen centers, state and local agencies serving families and children, research, or can pursue advanced degrees in Psychology or related fields.
The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program introduces students to a wide spectrum of concepts, relationships, and theories associated with the interaction between, groups, individuals, and society. Sociology allows students to explore the social forces that impact our lives including the primary institutions of the family, education, religion, economy, and government. The program provides students with the opportunity to evaluate social phenomena from various perspectives. The core courses provide foundational learning while a broad selection of electives will allow a student to specialize in an area of interest.
Learning Outcomes
- Discuss important aspects of society such as the social structure, the primary social institutions, and social problems;
- Understand and apply sociological theories to social situations;
- Demonstrate an understanding of social science research as it applies to the field of sociology;
- Employ research methods to evaluate social phenomena; and
- Understand contemporary social problems and how the understanding of sociology can foster solutions.
The program readies students for entry-level employment and subsequent career advancement in various fields including public and private social service organizations and settings. Additionally, the skills provided through a sociology degree are beneficial and transferable to careers in many disciplines including the business world such as marketing, human resources and public relations. Likewise, this program provides foundational knowledge to support professions within the criminal justice and correctional system. Sociology majors can be found in nearly any organization and profession thanks to the transferable skills associated with knowledge and understanding of individuals and society.
The Bachelor of Science in Human Services program is an interdisciplinary program that prepares students to assess the social and developmental needs of individuals and families—particularly of those who are considered at-risk or otherwise troubled—and either to participate directly in delivering the services required to address their needs, or to arrange and coordinate the delivery of quality services by others.
Learning Outcomes
- Discuss the purposes, methods, history, and contributions of Human Services professions; of the organization and functioning of the public and private agencies that constitute the domestic social welfare system; and of the delivery of services to individuals and families
- Demonstrate skills in observation, needs assessment, social intervention, program development and implementation, and evaluation of outcomes
- Assess the human service needs of individuals, families, and communities
- Employ techniques to encourage those they assist to become as self-sufficient as possible
- Evaluate which kinds of improvements in the external environment and human services systems would best facilitate the full realization of human potential
The program readies students for entry-level employment and subsequent career advancement in the human services field in various public and private organizations and settings. These include: federal, state, and local social welfare agencies; child care, youth services, and recreational organizations; schools and other educational venues; the criminal justice and correctional system; selected roles in not-for-profit organizations; and health care settings, such as hospitals, physician and psychologist practices, community health centers, health maintenance organizations, nursing and assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services, with a concentration in Early Childhood Education and Early Intervention, will allow students to advance their skills and knowledge in education and affiliated areas of human services. Graduates will be prepared to work with adults as well as children in community organizations, social services, and early childhood educational settings. While enrolled in this degree, students will be eligible to petition for the Associate in Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education after completing all the required courses and the 62 required credits in the Associate’s degree, with at least 30 of those credits earned at Fisher College.
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Human Services, Early Childhood Education and Early Intervention Concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning outcomes of the Human Services Degree, in addition to the learning outcomes for the Early Childhood Education Degree.
Learning Outcomes
- Discuss the purposes, methods, history, and contributions of Human Services professions; of the organization and functioning of the public and private agencies that constitute the domestic social welfare system; and of the delivery of services to individuals and families
- Demonstrate skills in observation, needs assessment, social intervention, program development and implementation, and evaluation of outcomes
- Assess the human service needs of individuals, families, and communities
- Employ techniques to encourage those they assist to become as self-sufficient as possible
- Evaluate which kinds of improvements in the external environment and human services systems would best facilitate the full realization of human potential
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Human Services, Early Intervention Concentration will have the opportunity to achieve the learning outcomes of the Human Services Degree in addition to the following concentration-specific learning outcomes:
- Apply key concepts and methods of the disciplines of Human Services and Early Intervention
- Assess the human service needs of individuals, families, communities and children with special needs
- Demonstrate skills in counseling and case management with adults, typically developing children, and non-typically developing children
- Employ techniques to encourage those they assist to become self-sufficient as possible
- Demonstrate skills in observation, needs assessment, social intervention, program development and implementation, and evaluating outcomes
- Develop an understanding of the importance of Early Intervention and learn therapeutic techniques to assist children with special needs
The program readies students for entry-level employment and subsequent career advancement in the human services field in various public and private organizations and settings. These include: federal, state, and local social welfare agencies; child care, youth services, and recreational organizations; schools and other educational venues. The Early Intervention concentration additionally prepares students to work as an Early Intervention developmental specialist.
The Master of Arts in Psychology, Mental Health track at Fisher College is designed to provide students with a graduate level foundation in psychology and mental health which will prepare them for employment in a variety of helping professions, government work, advocacy, or doctoral preparation.
The uniqueness of this one year program is that it is designed for those who have minimal experience in psychology or human services and those who have achieved a degree in those areas. The Master of Arts in Psychology, Mental Health track offers graduate students the opportunity to learn about the mental health field all while working directly with faculty to clarify their individual interest in psychology.
At the completion of this program students will be able to:
- Understand qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research studies.
- Critically analyze peer-reviewed literature.
- Examine the most appropriate methods and understand different types of research designs, including survey, experimental, and quasi-experimental.
- Design, conduct, write, and present new psychological research.
- Analyze several different aspects of human development, including, but not limited to: cognitive development, social development, and emotional development.
- Evaluate the impact of mental health issues on society at micro and macro levels.
- Explore various types of trauma (physical, sexual, emotional), and how they affect individuals, couples, families, and groups differently.
- Analyze literature on mental health diagnoses, psychopharmacology, trauma, and resiliency.
- Evaluate the psychological, sociological, and biological concerns related to aging.
- Analyze attitudes, reactions, values, and beliefs about death, dying and grief across cultures in the United States.