Where Can I Take a Child Care Exam Online?

A childcare exam may be taken online through a specific nonprofit organization, International Nanny Association. This article details that exam, requirements, stipulations and the organization that offers it.

Childcare Online Exam: Overview

The International Nanny Association (INA) offers an online exam in childcare for in-home childcare workers. INA is a nonprofit organization that has been around since 1985, serving the needs of childcare workers and others within the industry as well as providing resources and information. Members of INA include nannies, nanny agencies, nanny employers, industry service providers and educators.
INA offers a credentialed examination, which can be taken online. It requires that the nanny has worked at least 2,000 hours as an in-home nanny. This is the equivalent of a year of full-time work. In addition to this, the test-taker must be certified in infant or child CPR and first aid. The applicant must find a proctor who administers the exam. A score of 70% is required to pass. Once the nanny passes, he or she receives a certificate in the mail, and the person's name is placed on the INA members list. The exam is composed of 90 multiple-choice questions and accessible through the INA website.

Exam Questions

Many issues are tested on the exam. They may include child development, guidance, safety, nutrition, management skills, health, multicultural awareness and a nanny's personal qualities. The basic understanding of these concepts demonstrates the test-taker's knowledge of healthy environments for children, the characteristics of a health care provider and the ability to communicate with children in order to help them develop and keep them safe.
An exam booklet is provided through the INA website. This booklet provides sample questions, concerning the child's physical development, the nutrients which should be included on a child's daily menu and when attention deficit disorder is most commonly diagnosed.

Retaking the Exam

If the nanny doesn't pass this exam, he or she may retake it after six months. INA recommends that the nanny enrolls in a nanny education program and attends childcare conferences and workshops, which detail childcare education.

Online Youth Ministry Degree Program Information

Online degree programs in youth ministry are available at several colleges, universities and seminaries throughout the United States. Bachelor's and master's degree programs in youth ministry are the most common options hosted online, though distance-learning certificate and associate's degree programs are also offered by some schools.

Online Bachelor's Degree Program in Youth Ministry Overview

Students completing a 4-year program in youth ministry online may be awarded a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. Some schools might require applicants to have completed up to 30 prior college credits and have some work experience in order to study religion and counseling through such a program.

Online Program Information and Requirements

Bachelor's degree programs can be delivered entirely online or presented through a hybrid combination of on-campus and distance-education courses. Some programs might also include live seminars and internships. Many programs require the completion of 120 credit-hours total, with 60 or more taken in the major area of study.
Although these programs in particular do not require hardware or software components, students completing online youth ministry classes are expected to have access to a computer with reliable access to the Internet. They should have a recent operating system and Web browser, but other technical requirements vary by program and school.

Common Online Courses in Youth Ministry

The curriculum of an online bachelor's degree program in youth ministry emphasizes the development of teaching, leadership, communication and counseling skills. Additional courses in history, philosophy and psychology might also be required. Some colleges offer a live ministry experience under the supervision of a mentor.

Youth Ministry Theology Course

This class examines the religious or biblical philosophies of youth ministry. Other topics are effective methods of adolescent counseling and youth spiritual growth.

Youth Ministry Leadership Course

Topics in this course include mentoring responsibilities, teaching methods, management and ethics. Lessons also explore leadership theories relating to biblical concepts and ideologies.

Youth Ministry Teaching Course

Students learn educational theories and teaching methods as applied to youth ministry. Lectures might also focus on curriculum planning and the development of communication skills.

Graduate Career Information

Those holding a bachelor's degree in youth ministry can find employment in churches, schools or youth service organizations. Salaries vary depending mostly on employer type, and Payscale.com reports that even such factors as church denomination can affect wages. The site further reports a national annual range of $26,000-$39,000 earned by youth ministers as of 2010.

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Online Master's Degree Program in Youth Ministry Overview

Some schools with graduate-level youth ministry programs require that master's degree candidates already hold a bachelor's degree, preferably in religious studies; however, it may be permissible for applicants to and have only taken some college-level courses in biblical studies, theology and religious history. This program commonly awards a Master of Arts; however, while a Master of Arts in Youth Ministry is uncommon, the subject might be an area of concentration offered through an online program such as the Master of Arts in Ministry, Master of Arts in Counseling or Master of Arts in Religious Education.

Online Program Information and Requirements

Many online master's degree programs require students to complete at least 36 credit-hours, though some might require the completion of as many as 66 credits. Classes may be offered through hybrid programs or be presented entirely through the Web. Most programs include an internship or live mentoring experience, although these may be arranged so that they take place local to the student. Computer requirements are minimal, but require up-to-date functionality including an e-mail server, media player and access to the Internet.

Common Online Courses in Youth Ministry

The curriculum of an online master's degree program in youth ministry focuses on theories, methods, research and counseling skills relating to youth ministry. Program coursework might also address youth spiritual growth and development, communications, management strategies and theology.

Youth Ministry Counseling Course

Pastoral counseling and spiritual guidance are topics of discussion. Students focus on both adolescent and family counseling.

Theories of Counseling Course

This class explores counseling theories relating to theology. Students also learn the history of counseling theories and counseling techniques, and study methods commonly used in youth ministry.

Youth Ministry Communication Course

Students learn and practice basic and advanced communication strategies. Lessons focus on the oral, visual and written communication methods used to convey spiritual teachings to members of a youth ministry congregation.

Graduate Career Information

Graduates are qualified to handle counseling responsibilities in churches, community organizations or schools. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth rate for all counselors is expected to be 18% between 2008 and 2018. Annual salary wages for counselors vary, with median yearly salaries falling between $30,000 and $50,000 (www.bls.gov). Other career options include teaching and researching biblical studies, often at the university level.

Online Victim Advocate Classes, Courses and Training Programs

Online victim advocate classes provide the skills and training needed for professionals who work with crime victims. Most students who complete class work receive a victim advocacy certificate. Online classes can be found within many criminal justice and social work bachelor's and master's degree programs, as well as in some paralegal training programs.

Overview of Online Victim Advocate Courses and Training Programs

Students may earn a Certificate of Completion in Victim Advocacy by taking online classes as part of a bachelor's or master's degree program in legal studies, criminal justice or social work. The program objective includes helping victims deal with the devastating effects that crime has on the lives of individuals and families impacted by it by understanding the various issues involved. In addition, students learn how to provide assistance to victims during and after times of crisis resulting from criminal activity. Graduates work as victim advocates in various settings, including domestic violence shelters, crisis centers and with state and county offices that assist victims. Other career options include careers as probation, parole or peace officers and social workers.

Course Requirements

Online classes and training programs require basic Web page navigation skills and access to a computer with Internet connection. Students should have a general knowledge of creating and attaching files and using chat forums, message boards and e-mail. School websites list information regarding additional technology requirements.

List of Online Victim Advocate Courses

Most online victim advocate training programs focus on the same material and present it as a single course. Students can expect to complete training in about seven weeks.

Victim Advocacy Course

The class provides students with a basic introduction of victim advocacy and victims' rights legislation. Students learn how the legal process works. The course also includes training for community and grief counseling and crisis intervention. Graduates understand the steps to helping victims receive temporary restraining orders and find employment. Specific topics covered in most classes include:

• Legal terminology and process
• Guardianships
• Domestic violence
• Rape
• Suicide
• Child abuse
• Sexual assault
• Homicide and murder
• Battery and robbery
• Venue and jurisdiction

Online U.S. History Courses Overview

U.S. history courses focus on the people, places and events that have impacted America's cultural, political and economic development. Many colleges offer online U.S. history courses within Bachelor of Arts in History programs or as elective courses for other liberal arts degree programs.

Overview of Online U.S. History Courses

Online U.S. history courses are offered at the undergraduate and graduate level. Some courses are part of the general education requirements for degree programs, while others can be taken either as electives or as core courses for an Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts or Master of Arts in History.

Course Requirements

A basic level of skill in computer use and Internet navigation is helpful for online students. Consistent computer access along with high speed Internet, standard word processing software and an email account may be required. An orientation course for first-time online students is offered by many colleges, and usually includes information on accessing the school's online class portal, computer help desk contact information and the school's policies on plagiarism and academic honesty.

List of Online U.S. History Courses

U.S. History Course

In some cases, U.S. history courses cover enough in-depth material to be split into multiple parts. A typical first part of this course focuses on the birth and progression of the United States, starting with the Mayflower colonies and continuing through the Civil War era. Topics include the challenges faced by the initial European settlers, conflicts involving Native American populations, the struggle for American independence from European rule, statehood and slavery's rise and demise.
If the course is split into two parts, the second part might include analysis of American historical events beginning in the late 19th century and continuing through present day events. The major political, economic and social topics covered will likely include the World Wars, the Great Depression, industrialization and the civil rights movement. This general education course is typically taken in the first year of a degree program. Students participate by conducting online research, emailing assignments, joining class discussion groups and completing exams via the class website.

American Civil War Course

This detailed view of the War Between the States outlines the foundation, major events, decisive battles and ultimate consequences of the Civil War. The course reviews the underlying political, social and economic factors that led to military action over the issues of freedom, statehood and constitutional rights. This course may be a core offering in a Bachelor of Arts in History program and online participation may include class chat rooms, email exchanges and online exams.

Western American History Course

Western history courses usually include a look at the forces that drove America's expansion into western lands in addition to the consequences faced by the new settlers, native tribes and existing European communities. Students investigate the common beliefs, emerging technologies and personalities that fashioned western American civilization from the initial stages of western expansion to modern times. Class Web portals provide information for completing assignments and online class discussions.

Native American History Course

This course offers a historical view of Native American civilizations, including tribal cultures, economic development and relations with colonial Europeans. The course also reviews the interactions and conflicts of indigenous people with the newly formed and expanding American states, the adaptations which were essential for survival, and the status of Native Americans in U.S. society today. The class syllabus provides information on online test taking, assignment completion and discussion boards.

Women in U.S. History Course

This course is typically offered as an elective. It includes an in-depth study of women's roles and their impact on American history, politics and cultural development, beginning in pre-colonial times and extending through current-day events. Assignments and exams are submitted either via email or through the class Web portal.

U.S. History and Popular Culture Course

An exploration of the impact that popular music, film and food has had on America's historical development. Students examine past cultural norms and their contributions to our current view of history. The course might also assess how current popular culture can be useful in facilitating future historical change. Commonly offered as an elective, this course usually may be taken at any juncture in a bachelor's degree program. Students participate in the class using online tools including email, group discussion boards and online exams.

Online Theology Schools: How to Choose

Online theology schools offer master's degrees and doctorates in a range of theological and ministerial topics. Choosing an online theology program will depend greatly on the residency requirements and church affiliation of the school.

Choosing an Online Theology School

Residency Requirements

All of the accredited theology schools that offer online programs have residency requirements that should be considered when searching for an online theology school. While this means that some of the coursework can be done online, students must also attend required residential intensives or courses on-campus. The schedule and length of these residential intensives can vary between schools. On-campus requirements can range from one week per year to three weeks in the summer or three days every three months.

Church Affiliation

Another consideration when investigating online theology schools is church affiliation. There are many multi-denominational and non-denominational theology schools. However, there are also denominational-specific schools for students that prefer direct church support and affiliation.

List of Online Theology Degrees

Online Master of Arts in Practical Theology

An online master's degree in practical theology is generally a 60-credit hour program, with up to 30 credit hours that can be earned online. The core curriculum may include courses in research and writing, principles of Bible study, spiritual formation, Old and New Testament, biblical discipleship and practical ministry. Some programs allow students to also choose a concentration such as church and ministry, worship and renewal or interdisciplinary studies.

Online Master of Arts in Youth Ministry Leadership

Students can earn a master's degree in youth ministry leadership online with 42 credit hours; in some cases a research project is also required. Students study topics involving history of youth ministry, relational youth evangelism, biblical theology, communication strategies, assessment strategies, ministering to at-risk youth and the sociology of adolescence in Western society.

Online Master of Divinity

A Master of Divinity degree is the most commonly required degree for those seeking ordination. Depending on the program, an online Master of Divinity degree requires about 90 credit hours to complete. Foundational coursework engages the student in personal theological reflection and may include biblical interpretation, pastoral care and pulpit ministry.
Master of Divinity programs may offer concentrations in biblical interpretation, Christian education, youth ministries and practical theology. Some schools also offer additional tracks of study such as worship and renewal, church and ministry or biblical studies.

Online Doctor of Ministry

Online Doctor of Ministry programs may require approximately 36-credit hours and a dissertation to graduate. Programs investigate leading spiritual formation, a spiritual leader's life and values, and mobilization and management of the church. Some programs also offer concentrations in leadership, military ministry, community transformation, clinical pastoral education or ministry leadership coaching.

Online Textile Course Information

Online textile courses cover topics like the history and evolution of the textile industry, textile products and their uses, production methods and textile technology. These courses can be found in both undergraduate and graduate level programs in clothing and design, textile and apparel management, fashion design or textile science.

Overview of Textile Courses Available Online

Online textile courses are part of programs that prepare students to work in the fashion or textile industries, including apparel and merchandising, interior design and trend forecasting. These courses can be part of a program in fashion design and marketing, apparel and merchandising, fibers and textiles, textile technology or textile fundamentals.
Examples of specific degrees and fields of study that incorporate textile courses include a Bachelor of Science in Apparel and Merchandising, Bachelor of Arts in Textile and Apparel Management, Master of Arts in Textiles Clothing and Design, Master of Science in Textiles and an interior design certificate. Textile studies are undertaken by prospective textile designers, textile forecasters, fashion designers, interior designers, laboratory researchers and those working at various positions in the textile supply chain.

Course Requirements

These online courses typically require an updated computer with a high-speed processor and Internet access. Sufficient available memory, a graphics card, sound card with speakers and anti-virus software are also needed. In addition, students should have a personal e-mail address and an updated Web browser. Some programs may also require you to download or purchase specific design software.

List of Online Textile Courses

Introduction to Textiles Course

An overview of the different types of textiles, including their fibers, structures, characteristics and uses, are the focus of this online course. Animal, plant, mineral and synthetic sources are covered, in addition to the general textile families. Students are also introduced to the textile industry and various professions in the flied.

Textile History Course

This course provides an in-depth look at textile use throughout history, from ancient origins to modern-day times. The economic and technical history of textiles is discussed, along with the role of textiles in political and social contexts. This includes an online discussion of stylistic variations over time and among cultures. Finally, an overview of the evolution of production and manufacturing methods are considered.

Textile Forecasting and Marketing Course

Online students enrolled in this course learn to identify trends in the design and fashion industries in order to anticipate demands for all sectors of the textile chain. Students learn how doing so can increase productivity and sales. Properties such as color, texture and design are considered, as well as past buying patterns. Students also learn the importance of keeping abreast of new textile and fabric technologies.

Textile Technology and Fiber Science Course

The chemical structure of fibers and polymers, processes of converting fibers into textiles and performance testing methods are covered in this course. Students learn about different types of natural and manufactured fibers and how they are classified, as well as the differences in composition, properties and utilization.

Online Sociology Degree Program Options

Sociologists work to understand and improve social conditions by examining human institutions and populations across cultural and historical boundaries. An online bachelor's degree program in sociology is ideal for students interested in careers with government or social justice organizations.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Sociology Overview

Sociology is a field that examines at human and group behavior and population changes across cultures and time. In an online sociology bachelor's degree program, students complete general education classes and study culture, history and politics from a social perspective. Classwork requires strong skills in written communication and in mathematics, specifically statistical analysis. A bachelor's degree in sociology may be useful for students considering careers in social work, public policy, or government.

Online Program Information and Requirements

Some universities offer bachelor's degrees in sociology through programs that can be completed entirely online, with no campus visits required. Other programs make use of a hybrid format, providing some coursework online but requiring on-campus attendance for some classes. In most programs, coursework can either be completed full-time on a traditional 4-year schedule, or part-time to accommodate a student's work or family schedule.
Most universities offer online classes through a course management system (CMS), such as Blackboard, that stores readings, lectures and assignments and provides a discussion board for students and professors. Students may need software for playing audiovisual software. Textbook purchase is usually required.

List of Common Courses

Students in a bachelor's program must complete general-education coursework in the humanities, natural and physical sciences, and arts. Within the major, classes focus on various aspects of sociology and on statistical methods.

History of Social Theory Course

Courses in historical social theory look at the texts and theories of significant sociologists and their predecessors. Students can expect to study the work of noted sociologists such as Durkheim, Veblen, DuBois and Adorno.

Social Class and Status Course

A course on social class and status examines the inequalities in contemporary and historical societies. Racial, gender, class and sexuality-based groups are examined, as are the techniques employed by dominant groups to maintain inequalities.

Social Deviance Course

This class explores violence, sexual assault, criminal acts and other behaviors that deviate from social norms. Societal responses to deviance in the forms of sanctions and stigmatization are also covered.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates of sociology programs may work in a wide variety of fields, from nonprofit leadership to urban planning or government work. Social work is particularly closely connected to a sociology major, and is a growing field that provides many entry-level opportunities for recent graduates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wages for social workers in 2008 were $39,530 (www.bls.gov).

Continuing Education Information

Although sociology is a field in which advanced degrees are common, few universities currently offer fully online master's or doctoral programs. Some offer hybrid programs, in which students complete some courses online and come to campus for other classes or for periodic meetings with professors.