Minnesota's economy initially depended on wheat, pine and high-grade iron ore. As these resources diminished, the state started relying on wood pulp, dairy products, corn, soybeans, taconite, and manufacturing. However, the leading sources of income have again changed in Minnesota. The state's economy depends on various sources of income such as manufacturing, dairy products, financial service, trade, transportation and public utilities, construction, and public sector.
Minnesota Schools
Minnesota schools have many diverse programs for students looking to acquire a college degree. Varying degree levels are also available for students to meet their specific educational needs and career goals. Degree levels commonly offered by schools in Minnesota include associate, bachelor, master, doctoral and certificate programs. Certificate programs are offered for both undergraduate and graduate level students and aim to train them in certain specific skills. Degree programs offered by Minnesota Schools include accounting, administration, biology, business, carpentry, child care and education, civil engineering, construction management, cosmetology, criminal justice, entrepreneurship, environmental science, graphic design, medical information systems, visual arts, web development, criminal justice, and many others.
Accreditation
Colleges and universities in Minnesota can be accredited either by a national or regional accrediting agency. In order to acquire regional accreditation, schools have to contact North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, which is also known as North Central Association. It accredits various schools in Minnesota, along with 19 other states and the Navajo Nation. Schools with a national accreditation are accredited by:
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The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
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Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
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Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training
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The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
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The Council on Occupational Education
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The Distance Education and Training Council, Accrediting Commission
If any school in Minnesota does not have an accreditation from one of these national and regional accrediting agencies, it will not be accepted as an accredited institute. Schools in Minnesota can also have specialized accreditation of specific programs such as for education training, community and social services, law, humanities, personal care and services, and healthcare.
Online Education
There are a number of online programs available in Minnesota for students who cannot afford to acquire campus based education. However, it is important for students to look for accredited programs to ensure quality education and have better career opportunities.
There are some major advantages of online programs for students. They have the opportunity to study at their own pace and at the time that suits them best. Besides, online programs are cost effective, as students do not need to pay the fees that are normally associated with on-campus education. These costs include travelling, textbooks, and hostel accommodation.
Accredited online programs follow a similar curriculum as that of campus based programs. However, their method of instruction is different as they make use of some of the latest learning resources such as video lectures, PowerPoint slides, discussion threads and online practice exercises and exams. All these resources are available to students round the clock and therefore allow students to study in a flexible manner.