These programs are designed for students who wish to shorten the time they spend in school in order to enter the workforce sooner.

Traditionally, most online associate degrees take 2 years to complete if you enroll full-time. But accelerated programs allow you to take a more rigorous courseload so that you can complete an associate degree in 1 year.

1 Year Associate Degree Programs Online

Are you wondering if you can get a 1 year associate degree online? Colleges and universities offer a broad range of 12 month associate degree programs online. Below, we list 30 degrees that can help prepare you for a variety of career paths or additional education.

Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

• Associate’s Degree in Accounting
• Associate’s Degree in Business Administration
• Associate’s Degree in Computer Science
• Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice
• Associate’s Degree in Cyber Security
• Associate’s Degree in Data Analytics
• Associate’s Degree in Digital Marketing
• Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
• Associate’s Degree in Education
• Associate’s Degree in Entrepreneurship
• Associate’s Degree in Fashion Merchandising
• Associate’s Degree in Fire Science
• Associate’s Degree in Finance
• Associate’s Degree in Health Services
• Associate’s Degree in Healthcare Administration
• Associate’s Degree in Homeland Security
• Associate’s Degree in Human Resources
• Associate’s Degree in Information Technology
• Associate’s Degree in Legal Studies
• Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts
• Associate’s Degree in Management
• Associate’s Degree in Marketing
• Associate’s Degree in Medical Assisting
• Associate’s Degree in Medical Coding
• Associate’s Degree in Paralegal
• Associate’s Degree in Psychology
• Associate’s Degree in Small Business Management
• Associate’s Degree in Sociology
• Associate’s Degree in Software Engineering
• Associate’s Degree in Supply Chain & Logistics

Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.

Online Associates in Accounting

This accelerated associate degree covers foundational business and accounting concepts and practices. The specific courses vary by program but typically include business law, federal taxation, financial accounting, math, and payroll systems.

Graduates with online associates degrees in accounting may secure entry-level accounting and administrative positions in businesses and nonprofit organizations. Some graduates become accounting assistants and bookkeepers. Others work as accounts receivable clerks, billing clerks, and payroll clerks.

Online Associates in Business Administration

A 1-year associates in business administration teaches students fundamental business approaches and skills. Common course topics include applied marketing strategies, introduction to international business, principles of accounting, and human relations.

Students who earn this degree may work in a variety of business environments. Some graduates become administrative assistants and office managers. This degree can also help you qualify for roles like customer service supervisor, human resources specialist, and project manager.

Online Associates in Computer Science

Students who want to learn basic coding and web design skills might consider an online associate in computer science. This degree covers topics like computer networks, principles of computer science, cybersecurity, and database management.

Additionally, students study programming languages, such as JavaScript and Python. Graduates can apply their knowledge by pursuing entry-level careers in tech and other industries. Many work as cybersecurity specialists, software testers, and web developers.

Online Associates in Criminal Justice

If you’re passionate about public safety, you might be interested in an accelerated associate in criminal justice. You’ll learn about the legal system and study methods to prevent and investigate crimes.

Courses often cover criminal law, forensic science, introduction to criminal justice, and principles of law enforcement. This degree helps prepare students for careers in emergency services, law enforcement, and private corporations. Graduates often pursue careers as police officers, loss prevention specialists, and paralegals.

Online Associates in Cyber Security

This quick associates degree focuses on cybersecurity concepts, issues, and practices. Students learn how to identify and respond to common cyber threats, such as hacking and malware. Courses may include cloud computing, data privacy, programming languages, and network security architecture.

Many companies need cybersecurity professionals, so graduates can work in a broad range of industries. They may qualify for positions like cybersecurity engineers, information systems security specialists, and security analysts.

Online Associates in Data Analytics

If you want to learn how to interpret and apply data, you might consider a fast associate degree in data analytics. This degree teaches students how to collect, clean, manage, and analyze raw data.

The curriculum typically explores subjects like big data fundamentals, data mining, data visualization, and programming languages. Graduates with an associate’s in data analytics may pursue many jobs, such as data analysts, market research analysts, and project managers.

Online Associates in Digital Marketing

An associate in digital marketing combines traditional marketing approaches with cutting-edge social media marketing strategies.

Students study topics like email marketing, marketing principles, search engine optimization, and social media campaigns. They also explore consumer behavior and psychology. This degree can unlock many career opportunities in marketing firms and corporations.

Graduates may pursue careers as e-commerce managers, email marketing specialists, SEO managers, and social media specialists.

Online Associates in Early Childhood Education

If you want to work with children, you might consider an online associate’s degree in early childhood education. This degree teaches you how to support children’s development and help them gain knowledge.

The curriculum typically includes classroom management, language and literacy, and child psychology. Graduates who complete this degree may qualify for many positions involving infants and children. Common job titles include camp counselor, daycare provider, recreation coordinator, and teacher assistant.

Online Associates in Education

An associate’s degree in education helps prepare students for entry-level careers in schools and other educational settings.

Students may specialize in a particular area of education, such as art education, health education, or physical education. Core classes often include assessment and learning, introduction to child development, and instructional methods.

This degree can open many career paths. Many graduates work as childcare workers, preschool teachers, school librarian assistants, and tutors.

Online Associates in Entrepreneurship

Students who want to start their own businesses may find earning a fast degree in entrepreneurship beneficial. This degree focuses on foundational accounting and managerial skills to plan, fund, and manage a new venture.

Standard course topics include business ethics, personal finance, and principles of marketing. Many graduates use their entrepreneurial knowledge and skills to launch start-ups and small businesses. Others secure positions in corporations, such as marketing specialists and project managers.

Online Associates in Fashion Merchandising

If you love fashion and design, you may be interested in an associates in fashion merchandising. You’ll study the latest fashion trends and learn how to market clothes and accessories to diverse audiences.

Courses explore topics like display and visual merchandising, the history of fashion, and textiles. Graduates often work in the fashion and retail industries. Potential career paths include online merchant, purchasing manager, and wholesale buyer.

Online Associates in Fire Science

You can expand your knowledge of fire safety and prevention with an associate degree in fire science. This degree explores the chemistry of fire and fire protection methods.

The curriculum typically covers topics like fire behavior, principles of fire and emergency services, and hydraulics and water supply. Many graduates apply their fire science knowledge by pursuing careers as firefighters. Others become alarm technicians, fire investigators, and paramedics.

Online Associates in Finance

An associates in finance covers fundamental accounting and business practices and theories. You’ll learn how to help businesses maximize their financial performance and mitigate risk.

One year associate’s in finance programs frequently offer classes on financial accounting, investments, microeconomics, and principles of finance. This degree may help you qualify for entry-level positions in banks, credit unions, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. Graduates often work as bookkeepers, financial clerks, and real estate brokers.

Online Associates in Health Services

You can learn how to use administrative practices and the latest healthcare technologies to support patient care with an associate’s in health services. This degree usually covers subjects like human resource management, medical billing, medical office management, and medical terminology.

Graduates tend to use their degrees to pursue administrative and managerial roles in various healthcare settings, such as assisted living facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, and private clinics.

Online Associates in Healthcare Administration

You can prepare for a fast-paced administrative career in the medical field with an associate degree in healthcare administration. This 12 month program focuses on basic medical knowledge and administrative tools used in healthcare environments. You can study topics like anatomy and physiology, medical coding, and medical records.

After graduation, you may qualify for a broad range of healthcare careers. For instance, you might work as a medical transcriptionist or a health office manager.

Online Associates in Homeland Security

If you’re interested in national defense, you may consider a fast associate degree in homeland security. This degree examines threats to homeland security and strategies to protect public safety. Common course topics include counterterrorism, disaster management, and terrorism.

Many graduates apply their degrees by pursuing jobs in the Department of Homeland Security and other government agencies. Other potential employers include law enforcement agencies and private security firms.

Online Associates in Human Resources

An associates degree in human resources teaches students how to hire, train, and manage staff. Standard classes cover topics like business ethics, human relations, and principles of management.

Most businesses need human resource specialists to handle employee operations, so graduates may discover many career opportunities. Possible job titles include human resources clerk, payroll clerk, and records clerk.

Online Associates in Information Technology

You can study foundational computer science principles by earning an associate’s degree in information technology (IT). You’ll learn how to install, maintain, protect, and repair IT systems.

You may have the opportunity to explore subjects like database systems, information security, and web design. This degree can help unlock many job opportunities in businesses and tech firms. Potential career paths include customer support representative and web developer.

Online Associates in Legal Studies

You can deepen your understanding of laws and the legal system by earning a legal studies associate degree in 1 year. Classes generally cover criminal law, ethics, legal research, and paralegal practices. Students can also improve their critical thinking and communication skills.

Graduates can pursue a variety of non-lawyer positions in law firms and the justice system. Many go on to become paralegals and legal assistants, while others work as compliance officials and jury consultants.

Online Associates in Liberal Arts

An associate degree in liberal arts enables students to study a broad range of subjects in the humanities and social sciences.

The specific courses vary by program but may include topics on economics, English, history, and psychology. This degree allows students to strengthen their critical thinking and interpersonal skills. Graduates can use their abilities to secure many jobs, such as daycare teachers, event planners, and paralegals.

Online Associates in Management

You can hone your leadership and organizational skills by earning an online associate degree in management. You’ll learn to manage people, projects, and resources in business environments. Common course topics include financial accounting, fundamentals of management, and sales management.

Graduates often use this degree to pursue managerial positions in businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Potential career paths include office manager and sales support manager.

Online Associates in Marketing

You can gain a deeper understanding of consumer behavior and sales techniques with a quick associates in marketing. This degree allows you to study traditional and digital marketing concepts and strategies.

You may take courses on topics like integrated marketing techniques, microeconomics, and principles of retailing. People who earn this degree may land jobs in corporations and marketing firms. Many graduates work as public relations specialists, marketing associates, and social media managers.

Online Associates in Medical Assisting

You can learn how to support healthcare practitioners by enrolling in an online associate’s in medical assisting. You’ll gain hands-on skills, such as drawing blood and performing diagnostic tests.

Additionally, you’ll study subjects like healthcare ethics, medical billing, and phlebotomy. This degree helps prepare students for entry-level medical assisting and allied health careers. Assisted living communities, physician offices, and surgical centers hire these professionals frequently.

Online Associates in Medical Coding

Healthcare organizations and insurance companies use medical coding to record and bill medical services. An associates in medical coding teaches students how to translate medical records into codes, process insurance claims, and bill patients.

Standard topics covered in the curriculum include electronic health records, medical terminology, and regulatory issues in healthcare. Graduates frequently seek employment as medical coders and registered health information technicians.

Online Associates in Paralegal

If you want to work in the legal field, you could consider a fast associate degree in paralegal studies. This program helps you develop skills that you can use to assist attorneys with legal research and writing.

Standard course topics include civil law, introduction to law, and legal research and writing. Many graduates apply their legal knowledge as paralegals and legal assistants. Others become administrative or executive assistants for corporations.

Online Associates in Psychology

You can explore the intricacies of human behavior and psychology with an associate’s in psychology. This degree introduces students to human development and psychological disorders.

Popular course topics include abnormal psychology, human sexuality, and positive psychology. This degree can help prepare students for several entry-level positions in education and healthcare. For example, graduates may become home care aides, research assistants, or youth counselors.

Online Associates in Small Business Management

You can develop foundational business and leadership skills with an associates in small business management. This degree helps prepare students for supervisory positions in businesses with fewer than one hundred employees.

Degree requirements vary but may include courses like human resource management, organizational behavior, and performance management. Graduates may use this degree to pursue leadership roles in various corporate settings. Potential job titles include customer service associate, recruiter, and store manager.

Online Associates in Sociology

You can study the complex relationships between individual behavior and social systems with a quick associates degree in sociology.

You can gain a foundational understanding of sociological concepts, theories, and issues. The curriculum typically covers topics like cultural geography, family dynamics, and social trends. This degree can help graduates qualify for careers in education, marketing, social work, and other industries. For instance, some become PR specialists, while others work as management consultants.

Online Associates in Software Engineering

If you’re interested in computers and programming, you might be interested in an associate’s in software engineering.

You can learn how to develop, test, and maintain various types of software, such as mobile applications and websites. You could also study topics like networking fundamentals, programming languages, and user experience design.

Graduates may secure a broad range of entry-level tech jobs. Many apply their knowledge as software developers, software engineers, and web designers.

Online Associates in Supply Chain & Logistics

You can strengthen your knowledge of the global flow of products and services with an associates in supply chain and logistics. This degree teaches students how to optimize supply chains and handle disruptions.

Standard course topics include demand and inventory management and principles of supply chain management. All industries rely on supply chains, so graduates can pursue careers in many areas. For example, they may work as buyers, materials analysts, and supply chain coordinators.

1 Year Associates Degree Admissions Requirements

Can you get your associate’s degree in one year? While it is possible, your first step is to apply to the program of your choice.

Colleges with 12 month associate degree programs online typically have fewer requirements than bachelor’s degree programs. Here are a few common admissions criteria:

• Online application form with an application fee
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
• A short essay outlining your interest in the program

You may also be required to complete a pre-college curriculum, which could include English and math classes.

12 Month Associate Degree Programs Accreditation

Is it possible to get an associate’s degree in one year? While it is possible to earn an associates degree online fast, it’s beneficial to earn it at an accredited school.

Many colleges and universities earn regional accreditation to prove that they provide quality educational services. Accreditation is a voluntary process overseen by external accrediting agencies. These organizations typically require institutions to complete an evaluation and receive an on-site inspection.

Attending an accredited school ensures you receive a credible education that complies with industry standards. Also, many employers prefer to hire graduates from accredited programs because they know these students have received high-quality training.

You can verify the accreditation status of specific schools by visiting the website of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

How Many Credits Are Required for an Associate’s Degree?

The specific number of credits needed to earn a 1 year associate’s degree online varies between schools and programs.

Most programs, though, require students to complete at least 60 credit hours. If the program consists of 3 credit hour courses, it’d be necessary to take 20 classes. These credits typically include a mixture of general education courses, major courses, and electives.

You may be required to take general classes like communication, English, and math, regardless of your specific degree.

Can I Get My Associate’s Degree in One Year?

Getting an associates degree in one year is possible at many colleges and universities. Accelerated online programs allow students to earn their degrees in 6 to 12 months. But, accelerated programs typically have a much heavier courseload than traditional two-year programs.

Many schools offer asynchronous classes that students can complete on their own schedules for faster learning. Still, it may be necessary to take extra courses each semester to stay on track. In addition, some accelerated degree programs accept transfer credits, which can shorten the time to graduate.

Is an Accelerated Associates Degree Online Worth It?

Yes, an accelerated associates degree online is worth it for many students. These quick and easy associate degrees allow students to acquire the same knowledge and skills as traditional associate’s students but in half the time. As a result, students can graduate faster and start gaining work experience sooner.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate tends to be lower than the national average for those who hold an associates. Additionally, students who earn a 12 month associate’s degree online can often transfer their credits to a bachelor’s program. This strategy could enable students to earn a bachelor’s degree in 2 years instead of 4.

Colleges Offering One Year Online Associates Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer one-year associate degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

At Bethel University, a 60 credit Associate of Arts or Associate of Science may be earned online, potentially in just 1 year. The AS program allows students to major in business and leadership or to create their own individualized plan of study. The AA program provides a general liberal arts education.

Bethel University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The Fashion Institute of Technology offers online associate degrees that students who already have 30 college credits may be able to complete in just 1 year. Possible majors include Advertising and Marketing Communications, Communication Design Foundation, and Fashion Business Management. The programs aim to teach industry-specific knowledge and a global perspective.

The Fashion Institute of Technology is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

At Greenville Technical College, an associate degree can potentially be completed online in just 3 semesters, or 1 year. There are two 7 week terms during the traditional fall and spring semesters, and the summer semester is 10 weeks long. Courses are available online, on campus, and in a hybrid format.

Greenville Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Howard College offers a 12 month Transition Associate Degree Nursing Program that enables students to go from being an LVN to an RN. Articulation agreements with Texas universities also make it easier to transfer into a BSN program. The lecture portion of the program is online. New students may start in the summer or spring.

Howard College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

An associate degree can potentially be earned in just 11 months at Ivy Tech Community College. The program consists of five 8 week terms completed with a cohort. Possible majors include business administration, informatics, and liberal arts. Class sizes are small to help provide individualized attention. Classes are held during the daytime Monday through Friday.

Ivy Tech Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Lake Michigan College offers more than 50 associate degree programs, including a cohort-based accelerated pre-nursing pathway that consists of a series of 7 week courses. Other associate degree programs, in fields such as business administration, child development, or history, can potentially be completed in 1 year for those with qualifying transfer credits.

Lake Michigan College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Marian University offers a fully online Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies that can potentially be completed in 14 months. The program requires the completion of 66 credit hours. Classes are 5 weeks long, and there are nine start dates every year. Internship opportunities and one-on-one mentorship are available in the program.

Marian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

At Salt Lake Community College, an accelerated Business AS can potentially be completed in just 14 months. The program is designed for busy working professionals. Courses are 10 weeks long. Potential courses in the curriculum include Business Communications, Principles of Microeconomics, and Survey of Financial Accounting. Students progress through the program with a cohort.

Salt Lake Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

At South Piedmont Community College, an Associate in Arts can potentially be earned in 1 year. Courses are available online, on campus, and in hybrid formats. They are typically 5 weeks long and taken just two at a time. South Piedmont Community College strives to provide a supportive learning community.

South Piedmont Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Tidewater Community College offers accelerated AS degree programs in business administration, general studies, and social science that can typically be completed in 1 year. Each program consists of 60 credits that can be completed 100% online. The student-to-faculty ratio is low to help students receive personalized attention. Graduates of these programs may transfer into a 4 year program as a junior.

Tidewater Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Truckee Meadows Community College offers a fast-track program to earn an Associate of Arts in Business degree in potentially just 1 year by taking 5 week classes online. Students typically focus on two classes at a time alongside a cohort. Graduates of the program are usually eligible for junior standing in many bachelor’s degree programs.

Truckee Meadows Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The University of Cincinnati has an online certificate to associate program in healthcare management. It is designed to enable those with a Physician Practice Management Certificate to earn an Associate of Applied Business in Healthcare Management Technology in potentially just 1 year. Credits earned in the program may be transferred into a bachelor’s degree in healthcare leadership or health information management.

The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Massachusetts – Lowell offers AS degrees in business administration, IT, electronic engineering technology, and mechanical engineering technology. All programs can potentially be completed in 12 months. The business administration and IT programs are available online or in a mixed format, and the engineering programs are available on campus or in a mixed format.

The University of Massachusetts – Lowell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The University of Wisconsin – Green Bay offers an Accelerated Associate of Arts and Sciences that consists primarily of 7 week online classes designed for working adults. Some classes may be 14 weeks long. Students in the program may choose an area of emphasis or create their own customized plan of study.

UW – Green Bay is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Wilson Community College’s Fast Track options are designed to allow students to potentially earn an Associate in Arts or an Associate in Science in just 3 semesters, or 1 year. Courses are 8 weeks long. Graduates can typically transfer into a 4 year college or university as a junior.

Wilson Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Getting Your One Year Associate Degree Online

Can you finish an associate’s degree in a year? Actually, a growing number of colleges and universities offer 12 month associate degree programs online.

These accelerated programs let students expand their knowledge and gain career-ready skills in many areas, from accounting to supply chain management. Graduates who earn an associate degree in 1 year can generally kickstart or advance their career faster than students who follow a traditional schedule. Also, these programs may cost less than more extended degrees.

If you want to earn a 12 month associate degree online, you can start researching programs from accredited schools today.

The post 30 Best 1 Year Associate Degree Programs Online [2024] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

In less than a year, you could be a college graduate with workforce-ready skills. Going to school online is often a strategic choice for anyone who wants to earn a degree as quickly as possible.

Take a look at the options for the fastest associates degree online, and see which one is the right fit for you.

Associate Degree in 6 Months Online Programs

Perhaps you know you want to earn the fastest associate degree online, but you aren’t sure what to study. There are many options! Students interested in quick degrees can choose from a variety of fields.

Check out the following ideas and consider which one sounds right for you:

• Associates Degree in Accounting
• Associates Degree in Business Administration
• Associates Degree in Business Management
• Associates Degree in Communications
• Associates Degree in Computer Information Systems
• Associates Degree in Computer Networking
• Associates Degree in Computer Programming
• Associates Degree in Computer Science
• Associates Degree in Criminal Justice
• Associates Degree in Cyber Security
• Associates Degree in Data Analytics
• Associates Degree in Digital Marketing
• Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education
• Associates Degree in Education
• Associates Degree in Electronics
• Associates Degree in Engineering
• Associates Degree in Entrepreneurship
• Associates Degree in Fashion Merchandising
• Associates Degree in Finance
• Associates Degree in Fire Science
• Associates Degree in General Studies
• Associates Degree in Health Information Management
• Associates Degree in Health Science
• Associates Degree in Healthcare Administration
• Associates Degree in Healthcare Management
• Associates Degree in Homeland Security
• Associates Degree in Hospitality Management
• Associates Degree in Human Resources
• Associates Degree in Human Services
• Associates Degree in Information Technology
• Associates Degree in Legal Studies
• Associates Degree in Liberal Arts
• Associates Degree in Marketing
• Associates Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Associates Degree in Mechatronics
• Associates Degree in Medical Assisting
• Associates Degree in Medical Coding
• Associates Degree in Medical Office Administration
• Associates Degree in Network Administration
• Associates Degree in Paralegal
• Associates Degree in Pre-Pharmacy
• Associates Degree in Project Management
• Associates Degree in Psychology
• Associates Degree in Small Business
• Associates Degree in Social Science
• Associates Degree in Social Work
• Associates Degree in Sociology
• Associates Degree in Software Development
• Associates Degree in Supply Chain Management
• Associates Degree in Web Development

You can explore these programs to see which ones best match your interests and goals.

Online Associates in Accounting

In an accounting program, you’ll learn to keep financial records and use accounting software. The curriculum will address various types of accounting, including managerial accounting. You can also study taxation and take some basic business classes.

An accounting associate degree could help prepare you to be an accountant’s assistant. You could also be a bookkeeper or clerk in a department like accounts receivable or payroll.

Online Associates in Business Administration

For a versatile degree, you might think about studying business administration. You’ll explore topics like marketing, finance, accounting, human resources, and office technology. The curriculum might also cover business law.

Upon graduation, you may qualify for entry-level roles in a variety of business settings. Ideas include being a sales representative, a marketing assistant, or a customer service rep. With experience, you may someday qualify for a management role.

Online Associates in Business Management

Similar to a business administration program, a business management degree will cover the fundamentals of business. There will be a greater emphasis on being an effective manager and leader, though. You’ll study economics and communication as well.

Suitable jobs for this degree include working as a sales manager or an office administrator. Some graduates go on to manage a retail store or a restaurant.

Online Associates in Communications

When you’re looking for easy associate degrees, you might consider studying communication. You’ll research persuasion, public speaking, and social media. The curriculum can help you communicate effectively in both one-on-one and group settings.

Perhaps you’ll use this degree to become a writer for a print or digital platform. Alternatively, you might pursue work in social media management or as a public relations assistant.

Online Associates in Computer Information Systems

Studying computer information systems can help prepare you to help businesses use technology well. This degree program will cover topics like databases and web design. You can learn introductory programming skills and explore a particular programming language.

With this degree, you could consider a job as a computer support specialist or a web developer. Some organizations may have network or database administration jobs available as well.

Online Associates in Computer Networking

You can gain practical skills as you study computer networking. This degree program will cover topics like setting up a network, installing a firewall, and configuring software. You can learn about routers, switches, operating systems, wireless configurations, cloud computing, and more.

The courses may help prepare you to earn industry certifications that can enhance your resume. Possible job opportunities include being a computer user support specialist, a network support specialist, or a network administrator.

Online Associates in Computer Programming

If you’d like to learn multiple programming languages, then this could be the quick associate degree for you. Your studies might cover C++, JavaScript, and Python. Other common subjects for this degree include cyber security and website development.

You might qualify for an entry-level job on a programming, systems analysis, or mobile development team. Web design and computer user support could be other lines of work to consider.

Online Associates in Computer Science

By getting your degree in computer science, you can learn how computer programs work. The classes will address topics like data structures and operating systems. You may learn to use one or more programming languages.

One popular job for a new computer science graduate involves working as a computer help-desk technician. You may also qualify for entry-level roles in programming or software development.

Online Associates in Criminal Justice

For those who want to work in law enforcement or legal systems, this degree will cover courts, corrections, and policing. You’ll discuss how to conduct investigations, keep people safe, prioritize fairness, and support your community.

This degree might offer an advantage when applying for police department jobs. Other possibilities include being a correctional officer, a security guard, or a private investigator.

Online Associates in Cyber Security

Experts in cyber security work to keep computer systems and data safe. Their tools include evidence-based policies, security software, penetration testing, ethical hacking, and digital forensics.

In a cyber security program, you’ll also study networks, operating systems, and software. You may qualify to work as a security specialist or a security analyst after getting this degree. Industry certifications may further enhance your resume.

Online Associates in Data Analytics

In this associate degree program, you’ll learn about the role that data analytics plays in today’s business landscape. The courses will cover methods of data collection, storage, and organization. You can learn how to evaluate data as well.

This degree could help you get an entry-level role on an analyst team. You might focus on business intelligence or operations analytics, for example.

Online Associates in Digital Marketing

Digital marketers use non-print channels to connect with consumers. When you study digital marketing, you’ll have classes in social media, consumer behavior, advertising and promotions, and brand management. The curriculum will cover digital marketing strategies like pay-per-click and mobile advertising.

Possible job titles for graduates include copywriter, social media manager, and advertising sales representative. You could also work as an entry-level marketing assistant.

Online Associates in Early Childhood Education

As an aspiring early childhood professional, you will study child development, literacy, health and nutrition, and family dynamics. Your courses might also address special education, classroom management, and child psychology.

An associate degree could be useful for a career in childcare, or you might be able to teach preschoolers. Other potential jobs include being a teacher’s assistant or a recreation worker.

Online Associates in Education

An associate degree program in education will introduce you to the history of education and give you a look at today’s teaching and learning systems. You’ll prepare to work with kids as you study learning theories, classroom technology, and behavior management.

This degree can be helpful for anyone who plans to become a childcare provider or a classroom aide. It might also qualify you to teach preschool.

Online Associates in Electronics

In this technical program, you can learn about circuit boards, controllers, microprocessors, and machinery. The classes will equip you to design circuits, test systems, and perform repairs. Smart safety practices will be emphasized throughout this program.

Graduates often find careers as electronics engineering technicians or manufacturing technicians. The training could also be useful for a career in electronics repair work.

Online Associates in Engineering

Getting an associate degree in engineering can help equip you with skills for working in today’s manufacturing sector. You’ll study automation, circuits, controls, electronic systems, and information technology. In addition, you’ll learn what’s involved in being part of an engineering team.

Engineering technician jobs are common for people with this degree. For instance, you might work as a mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering technician.

Online Associates in Entrepreneurship

You can study the fundamentals of starting and running businesses in one of the fastest online associate’s degree programs for entrepreneurs.

The topics covered in this program may include marketing, customer service, inventory management, and sales. You might also learn to do basic accounting and handle business taxes. This degree could provide you with the confidence to start your own business or purchase a franchise.

Online Associates in Fashion Merchandising

If you’re interested in the latest styles, then you might want to study fashion merchandising in college. You’ll learn about the history of fashion and look at current trends. Other topics will include textiles, supply chains, and sales techniques.

Fashion merchandising can lead to jobs in retail management. It could also help you find entry-level work as a buyer or a purchasing agent.

Online Associates in Finance

Your finance program will cover topics related to accounting, economics, banking, and investing. During this program, you will learn how to analyze financial statements and evaluate risk versus reward in investment opportunities.

This associate degree could help you secure work as an associate in a corporate finance department, or you might pursue a job as a billing, brokerage, or payroll clerk.

Online Associates in Fire Science

This program will introduce you to the science of fires—why they burn and how to suppress them. Your studies will cover hydraulics and sprinkler systems, and the classes will teach you about the fire service and emergency management professions as well.

This degree could provide an advantage when applying for firefighting jobs or promotions. Another line of work to consider is fire inspection.

Online Associates in General Studies

If you aren’t sure what major is best for you, you could choose general studies. This associate degree will include a variety of classes from various disciplines, such as math, composition, history, science, and more. The curriculum may have space for multiple electives.

After graduating from one of the fastest associates degree online programs, you might work in customer service, business management, office administration, or other fields.

Online Associates in Health Information Management

Also known as HIM, the field of health information management deals with revenue tracking, medical coding, and data management in healthcare settings.

In this degree program, you will learn about diagnostic and procedural codes. Other topics include insurance and reimbursement, database organization, and health privacy. Possible healthcare jobs include medical coder, patient registrar, records specialist, information technologist, and claims processor.

Online Associates in Health Science

An associate degree in health science could help prepare you to work in the allied health field. Your classes will cover medical terminology and human anatomy, and you can learn about nutrition, diseases, and human development. There will be microbiology classes too.

You might work in medical billing, patient relations, or health education. You could also pursue certification as a healthcare technician or assistant.

Online Associates in Healthcare Administration

To become a healthcare professional, you will study medical terminology, the US healthcare system, privacy laws, and reimbursement. You’ll also discuss the ins and outs of supervising a team—such as what’s involved in conflict resolution.

This degree may prepare you for a supervisory role in a home healthcare agency, a physician’s front office, a skilled nursing facility, or a hospital’s billing department.

Online Associates in Healthcare Management

If you want to study business principles for healthcare settings, then you might consider a healthcare management degree. Your courses will cover human resources, accounting, marketing, and finance. Additionally, you’ll study healthcare delivery, health information systems, and quality assurance.

With an associate degree, you might work as a secretary or a receptionist in a medical office. Medical records and patient services are other career paths to consider.

Online Associates in Homeland Security

A program dedicated to homeland security will include material from the disciplines of criminal justice and political science. You’ll study topics such as terrorism, emergency management, and law enforcement. There might also be a course in cybercrime.

If you’re interested in a job in law enforcement, transportation screening, corrections, or private security, this degree could be right for you.

Online Associates in Hospitality Management

You’ll learn how to care for guests in various settings as you study hospitality management. Culinary skills and food safety practices will be covered, and you can learn to run restaurants, bars, and hotels. The curriculum might also address customer service and team leadership.

Hospitality management courses are useful for anyone who wants to manage a restaurant, a hotel, a spa, or a conference center.

Online Associates in Human Resources

While training for a career in human resources, you can learn about benefits packages, staffing strategies, and labor laws.

You can gain skills for managing conflict, training team members, and improving workplace morale. There may be some general business classes as well. You might qualify for HR assistant roles or even some HR specialist positions. You could also work in a payroll department.

Online Associates in Human Services

If your goal is to help others, then you might want to study psychology and sociology in a human services program. Additional courses will address topics like documenting case information, speaking with clients, responding to trauma, and supporting diverse families.

Your degree could help you qualify to work as a human or social services assistant. You might work as a child services worker or a case manager.

Online Associates in Information Technology

Networks and operating systems will be among your topics of study in an information technology program. Along with your fellow classmates, you’ll study programming concepts and online security. You can learn how to coordinate teams and lead projects too.

This degree would be good preparation for working as a computer help-desk technician. You could also start a career in web development.

Online Associates in Legal Studies

You’ll study the court system and legal professions in this degree program. You’ll likely learn about several different types of law, including criminal, civil, family, and real estate law. The skills you can gain may include conducting legal research and drafting legal documents.

Common job titles for this degree path include paralegal, legal secretary, and legal assistant. You may qualify for paralegal certification.

Online Associates in Liberal Arts

In a liberal arts program, your focus won’t be on one particular discipline. Rather, you’ll study subjects from throughout the liberal arts, including psychology, history, economics, literature, and biology. This degree program can equip you with a well-rounded education.

After graduation, this degree may enhance your resume as you apply for jobs in office management, law enforcement, customer service, public relations, or other fields.

Online Associates in Marketing

The lessons in a marketing program will cover advertising, promotions, branding, and consumer behavior. Today’s degrees also include lessons about digital marketing strategies, including social media marketing. There may be general business classes as well.

After getting your degree in marketing, you may be able to work as an advertising sales rep, a marketing specialist, a social media manager, or a sales manager.

Online Associates in Mechanical Engineering

A mechanical engineering program will introduce you to concepts in kinematics, fluids, and thermodynamics. You’ll study the properties of various materials, and you may practice using drafting software. Electricity and manufacturing processes are other topics that may be covered.

Working as a mechanical engineering technician is common for graduates of this program. Being a drafter is another job to consider.

Online Associates in Mechatronics

Today’s manufacturing environments are highly automated. Mechatronics experts understand how to operate and troubleshoot automated equipment.

For a mechatronics degree, you’ll study robotics, programming, electric wiring, instrument panels, hydraulics, and a variety of other machine- and technology-oriented topics. You will also practice reading and writing technical reports.

After graduation, you might find work in industrial maintenance as an electro-mechanical or mechatronics technologist or technician.

Online Associates in Medical Assisting

To prepare for a career as a medical assistant, you’ll study anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and clinical procedures.

Other classes will teach you to use billing software, interact with patients, and maintain people’s privacy. You may need to complete some in-person clinical experiences in a local healthcare setting. Medical assistants often work in doctor’s offices, outpatient surgical centers, and hospitals.

Online Associates in Medical Coding

Working as a medical coding professional requires knowing both diagnosis codes and procedure codes. Other essential topics to study in this program include healthcare vocabulary, reimbursement systems, health law, and data management.

Completing this degree could help qualify you for employment as a medical records specialist, a health information technician, or a medical coder. You may be ready for coding certification from an industry organization.

Online Associates in Medical Office Administration

Studying office administration for medical offices will involve learning about insurance and billing as well as medical diagnoses and treatments.

You’ll practice your typing skills and work with electronic health records systems. Customer service will be another important topic. This degree program offers useful preparation for working as a medical secretary, receptionist, or administrative assistant in a doctor’s office or a hospital or another healthcare setting.

Online Associates in Network Administration

If you want to develop your expertise in networks and operating systems, then you might think about a degree in network administration.

You’ll learn how to work with wired and wireless networks. Data privacy and basic programming skills will be covered as well. There may also be lab experiences. A network degree can be useful for tech jobs like network support specialist, network analyst, and network administrator.

Online Associates in Paralegal

Learning how to prepare legal documents, research case law, and speak with clients can get you ready for a paralegal career.

You’ll study criminal and civil law, and you’ll also practice using legal software. You may gain supervised work experience in a real law office before graduation. This course of study is useful for paralegal certification as well as legal assistant, paralegal, and legal secretary jobs.

Online Associates in Pre-Pharmacy

Pre-pharmacy is a science-heavy program. You’ll take multiple classes in biology and chemistry. There will be courses in anatomy, statistics, and medical terminology as well.

Pre-pharmacy programs are designed for transfer. You might be ready to enroll in a health science bachelor’s degree program or a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) professional program. It might also be possible to work as a pharmacy technician.

Online Associates in Project Management

When you study for a degree in project management, you can learn how to develop, execute, and evaluate project plans. Your curriculum will include courses in making contracts, obtaining supplies, and staying within budget.

Some associate degree programs focus specifically on project management in the construction industry. You may qualify to work as an entry-level project management associate in a field like construction or manufacturing.

Online Associates in Psychology

As a psychology student, you’ll explore human development, personality theories, and family dynamics. There might be classes in general, abnormal, developmental, or behavioral psychology.

A psychology associate degree could be useful in a job as a human or social services assistant or a caseworker. You could also work with kids as a teacher’s aide or a daycare provider. Correctional officer is another job to consider.

Online Associates in Small Business

Owning a small business can be tough, but education can provide a foundation for success. You’ll learn how to develop a solid business plan, meet customers’ needs, market your services, hire employees, and maintain your company’s books.

After graduation, you could have business skills desired by many employers, or you may be ready to start your own small business.

Online Associates in Social Science

Economics, history, psychology, and sociology are just a few of the topics typically covered in social science programs. You might also study political science, geography, or linguistics.

Often, social science students are allowed to shape their curriculum by choosing multiple elective classes. This degree could have many career outcomes. Potential ideas include being a human services caseworker, a law enforcement officer, or a museum technician.

Online Associates in Social Work

You’ll draw on your lessons in psychology and human behavior throughout a career that’s dedicated to helping other people. Anthropology, family dynamics, and diversity may be other topics covered in your social work curriculum.

A social work degree might help you become an assistant in a social or human services community organization. You could also think about becoming a correctional officer or an intake worker in a residential care facility.

Online Associates in Sociology

You’ll explore culture and examine social issues as you study for a degree in sociology. Your college experience may include studies in family relationships, social justice, cultural diversity, and political science. Some programs include introductory social work courses.

While many sociology associate degree programs are designed for transferring to a four-year school, you could also start a career in a social service agency or a public health department.

Online Associates in Software Development

A program for software development can help you develop foundational programming skills as well as experience with languages like HTML and Python.

You’ll learn specific programming techniques for databases, mobile applications, and more. Networks and data security may be additional topics. Hiring requirements vary, but some organizations may bring you on as a software developer, a computer programmer, or a web developer.

Online Associates in Supply Chain Management

Spreadsheets, contracts, and budgets will be some of the topics emphasized in your supply chain program. You can also learn about transportation and warehousing. Managerial skills and scheduling software will be addressed as well.

Depending on the employer, you might be suitable for a job as a buyer, a transportation manager, a warehouse supervisor, a logistics specialist, or a freight scheduler.

Online Associates in Web Development

A fast-track degree in web development might feature courses in scripting, graphic design, and user experience. You’ll practice programming languages, improve your communication skills, work with website-design software, and test web page functionality.

As a web designer or developer, you could be self-employed or work for a company. This degree could also be relevant for a career in mobile app development.

Can You Get an Associate’s Degree in One Year?

If you select the right school, you may be able to earn your associate degree in about 1 year. On campus, it typically takes 2 years of full-time study to graduate with an associate degree. But, these days, there are multiple 1 year associate degree programs online.

In an accelerated online program, you may be able to take classes year-round with no gap in learning over an extended summer break. Each class might last only 8 weeks. At some schools, there are even 4 week or 6 week classes. Before you know it, you’ll have earned 60 credits for graduation!

What Is the Fastest Way to Get an Associates Degree?

If you want to earn the quickest associates degree, then online education might be for you. Today’s online programs, especially those for adult learners, are often meant for speed. Colleges know that busy learners have their sights set on graduating workforce-ready as soon as possible.

There are some characteristics you may want to look for if you plan to earn your associates degree online fast. First, choose a college with start terms and course sessions throughout the year. For the easiest associates degree online programs, look for classes that can be completed in 1 to 2 months. Also, it’s strategic to prioritize schools that issue credit for past studies or professional experience.

Is a 6 Month Associate Degree Online Worth It?

Yes, a 6-month associate degree online is worth it for many students. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, unemployment rates drop as education increases. More specifically, the unemployment rate among people who hold at least an associate degree is lower than the national average. Some of the highest paying associate’s degrees include web development, dental hygiene, and aeronautics.

You’ll likely be busy during an accelerated college program, but this intense season won’t last long. Soon, you could have an accredited degree in hand. An associate degree could be a strategic addition to your resume and could provide the necessary preparation for an exciting new career in your field of choice.

Getting an Associate Degree in 6 Months Online

Earning an associate degree could be the first step toward entering your preferred career field.

Going back to school doesn’t need to take multiple years. Rather, you can earn a solid education in under 1 year when you choose one of the fastest associates degree online programs. When you study at a regionally accredited college, you can trust that quality and speed will go hand in hand.

You may be only a few months away from earning your college degree. You can check out fast online degrees and get started today!

The post 50 Fastest Associate Degrees in 6 Months Online [2024] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

Are you interested in computers and coding, and wondering if a computer programming degree is a wise move for you? With the rising popularity of STEM careers, a computer programming degree may be a wise investment.

Online Computer Programming Degrees

Becoming a computer programmer is a wide path, with many degrees helping you develop the skills and experience necessary to be successful as a programmer. Click on the subject you’re most interested in to skip to that section.

• Computer Engineering
• Computer Information Systems
• Computer Programming
• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Management Information Systems
• Software Engineering

While there is some overlap, each of these degree concentrations may set you up to be very specialized in your chosen field. Choose the one that most appeals to you.

Computer Engineering Degree

Computer engineering encompasses the design and maintenance of larger systems used in communications, controls, and power systems.

You may develop the skills necessary to be a computer engineer in courses such as Introduction to Digital Logic Design, Microprocessor Systems, and Mobile Robotics.

Computer Information Systems Degree

This degree is fine-tuned to provide a partnership with business management and information systems.

These skills may be developed through courses such as Fundamentals of Cyber-Security, Project Management, and IS Strategy Management & Acquisition.

Computer Programming Degree

An online computer programming degree specializes in learning computer code and the applications of this skill in the marketplace.

Some of the courses you can expect to take in this degree include Java Programming, SQL Fundamentals, and Designing and Programming an Application.

Computer Science Degree

An online computer science degree program encompasses a wide variety of disciplines, including software, networks, information security, digital design, and electronic media. These skills may enable you to approach nearly any technological problem and know how to handle it using the tools at your disposal.

These skills may be developed through courses such as Communication in the Computer Industry, Data Structures, and Introduction to Software Engineering.

Information Technology Degree

This degree bridges the gap between business and technology, enabling you to be a powerhouse in the workplace.

These skills may be developed through courses such as Systems Administration, Intermediate Java Programming, and Principles of Project Management.

Management Information Systems Degree

This degree can help equip you to be a leader with skills in both technology and business management.

With the goal of working as a liaison between information services and the end-user, you may strengthen your skills through courses such as Computers and Internet in Society, Statistical Inference in Management, and Information Systems Analysis and Design.

Software Engineering Degree

Working as a software engineer may hone your skills in all areas of software development, from concept to product release.

To become a proficient programmer, you can expect to take classes such as Programming Languages, Object-Oriented Development, and Software Engineering.

Computer Programming Degree Levels

You can earn a computer programming degree either on campus in a traditional format or online. You could earn a:

• Associate’s in Computer Programming,
• Bachelor’s in Computer Programming,
• Master’s in Computer Programming, or
• PhD in Computer Programming.

The level of programming degree required will likely depend on the job you are seeking. You can often land entry-level programmer jobs with a computer programming certification or associate’s degree in computer programming. That being said, some employers may give preference to candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in computer programming or higher.

Online Computer Programming Courses and Curriculum

Becoming a computer programmer is not as simple as completing a weekend seminar. If you enroll in an online computer programming degree, you can expect to take courses such as these:

• Intro to Computer Information Systems
• College Algebra
• Introduction to Web Development
• Front-End Web Development
• Object-Oriented Programming
• Assembly Language
• Programming Languages
• Software Engineering
• Computer Graphics
• Database Design and Programming

With the skills you’ll develop through courses like these, you may be well equipped to succeed as a computer programmer.

Computer Programming Certifications

Computer programming certifications are a way to prove your proficiency and aptitude in a specific area of programming or development. Being certified may give you an edge over other job applicants in entry-level programming positions.

While many degrees offer students the opportunity to develop proficiency in a particular tool, programming language, or vendor-specific platform, a certification is a verified example of your skillset.

With over 2,000 computer programming languages available, a company or organization may value one certification over another. Some positions, such as a database administrator, may require certification in the product that the company uses, whether through the software vendors or vendor-neutral certification providers.

For senior positions such as an information security analyst, most companies will require applicants to be certified before applying.

How to Become a Computer Programmer

NASA, Pokémon Go, and the operating system on your cell phone all have one element in common: they were all built by computer programmers. So, what do you need to do to join the ranks of computer programmers and make an impression on the world around you?

Most computer programmer jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related subject. However, if you do not have the time or resources to complete a four-year degree, some companies have entry-level positions for programmers who only have an associate’s degree.

You can also expect to be continually upgrading your skills with courses in new programming languages and technological developments even after you get a job as a computer programmer.

Accelerated Computer Programming Degrees

Want to get your computer programming degree fast? Pick a school like Purdue that offers 6-week online courses to help you finish your degree at an accelerated pace.

For a step-by-step guide to getting your bachelor’s degree fast, you can check out this article: How to Get an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online.

Computer Programming Jobs

In today’s marketplace, computer programmers can be found in almost every sector, from healthcare to research and development.

Computer programmers are a key player in the advancement of the workplace, strengthening the impact of every other department in an organization. Within the workforce, a computer programmer might hold positions such as:

• Computer and Information Systems Manager
• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Computer Network Architect
• Software Developer
• Information Security Analyst
• Computer Systems Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Computer Programmer
• Network and Computer Systems Administrator
• Web Developer

Computer coding jobs often allow you to harness technology to support your corporation’s goals and objectives.

Computer Programming Salary

If you are on the fence about whether to pursue a career as a computer programmer, ponder this fact for a moment: The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that 93% of STEM careers command wages above the national average.

In fact, the average for STEM occupations was nearly double the national average wage!

The average median salary is one of the biggest factors that advertise for an online computer programming degree. If you are hoping to increase your paycheck, a computer programming career may work in your favor.

Accreditation

There are a lot of computer programming training courses online, and most of them are not accredited. That means no one has double-checked the quality of the education they offer.

To ensure that you receive the highest quality education possible, along with a degree that employers will respect, only enroll in accredited schools. Regional accreditation can come from any of these boards:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Getting your associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree from an accredited school also helps to ensure that other universities will accept you into their programs if you ever want to further your education.

Financial Aid

You plan to make a good living once you graduate, but what can you do to make sure you have the funds to finish?

Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Then, check into these secondary sources:

• State funding
• Private organization grants and scholarships
• University scholarships
• Employer tuition assistance

Most students qualify for multiple sources of financial aid, so don’t pass over any of these opportunities.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Computer Programming?

Having a degree in computer programming may open up a wide variety of careers within the technology field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that computer programmers are often employed in software, systems analysis or IT.

How Many Years of College Do You Need to Be a Computer Programmer?

According to US News, most employers require computer programmers to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. In addition to a four-year degree, many employers also expect computer programmers to have specific certifications.

Do You Need a Degree to Get a Job as a Programmer?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that most employers will not hire you without a degree.  For employed computer programmers 25 years and older, 50.2% have a bachelor’s degree.

How Much Do Computer Scientists Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a computer scientist’s median wage is $126,830. Computer scientists that specialize in a particular field may earn more, such as software publishers who make a median $145,920 annually.

Can You Get a CS Degree Online?

Yes! It would be strange if you couldn’t get a technology degree online, wouldn’t it? And with the popularity and demand for computer programming, there are many universities offering different types of an online computer programming degree. Take a look at our list below.

Is an Online Computer Programming Degree Different From a Traditional Degree?

The only difference between an online computer programming degree and a traditional degree is the way you obtain it. Both degrees are equivalent and may open up the same opportunities post graduation.

How Do I Know if Computer Programming is Right For Me?

Determining which college degree is right for you can be quite difficult. Compared to other popular majors such as psychology, criminal justice, or nursing, computer programming can be just as easy to decide on. If you have any of the following traits, a computer programming degree may be the right fit for you.

• Have a passion for computers
• Excel at problem solving
• Enjoy thinking outside of the box
• Are a quick learner and pay attention to detail

In addition to these traits, programmers typically start with an interest in mobile development, web development, or video game development.

Where Can I Go to School for Computer Programming?

Today, you could go to almost any junior college or university to study computer programming. You could also take online classes from some of the accredited educational centers in the world. We’ve listed over 70 of them below.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Computer Science Degree Online?

For an online computer programming degree, an associate’s degree takes 1-2 years. A bachelor’s usually takes 4 years, but if you take accelerated classes and test out of a few Gen. Ed. courses, you may finish in as little as 2.5 or 3 years. You might finish even faster if you have transfer credits or applicable life experience.

Universities Offering Online Bachelor’s in Computer Programming Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Arizona State University is a public institution based in Phoenix. It was established in 1885, and they now serve over 50,000 students. They possess five different campuses in Phoenix, each one centered on a different department. They have been recently chosen by U.S. News & World Report as one of the most innovative universities in the country.

• Bachelor’s in Software Engineering

ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Baker College is a private non-profit university that dates back to 1911. They are located in Flint, Michigan, where they have historically been one of the leading technical and engineering training centers. They possess an urban campus that encompasses 53 acres of academic buildings. They are renowned for their extensive financial aid programs and their “right to try” admissions policy.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Baker is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Located in Bellevue, Nebraska, Bellevue University is a private non-profit institution. They were founded in 1966 as a way to cater to working adults and non-traditional students who already had job experience. In addition to their main suburban campus in Bellevue, they also maintain a professional center in Omaha. They currently have over 10,000 students.

• Bachelor’s in Software Development

Bellevue is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

Based in Provo, Utah, Brigham Young University is a private research university. They are affiliated with the Mormon Church (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) and are as much a training center as a cultural icon for that community. They were established in 1875 and still keep largely the same “honor code” in effect for all their students.

• BS in Information Technology

BYU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Sometimes known as CSU, California State University is actually a school system that comprises 23 different campuses across the state. These are all public institutions, which were organized in 1857 to replace the California State Normal Schools conglomerate.

The main campus is located in Long Beach, California. They currently have approximately 481,000 students.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Cal State is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Champlain College was founded in Burlington, Vermont in 1878. It is a private institution that was originally founded by G. W. Thompson with the goal of “preparing young men for business and life.” They now have over 2,200 full-time on-campus students, in addition to a wide array of international students who are enrolled in their online Master’s programs.

• Bachelor’s in Software Development

Champlain is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Global Campus of the Colorado State University System was founded in 2007 as an extension arm that could facilitate long-distance opportunities for students from all around the world. Although their administrative offices are located in the city of Aurora, this online campus now has a student body of over 19,000 people who hail from over 40 countries.

• BS in Information Technology

On June 30, 2011, CSU – Global was officially granted independent regional accreditation status by the Higher Learning Commission.

Sometimes known as CTU, the Colorado Technical University is a private higher education institution. They were founded in 1965. Just like their name indicates, they are based in Colorado Springs, where they cater to over 23,000 undergraduates and over 2,000 postgraduate students. Most of their current student body is pursuing a long-distance degree.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

CTU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University is a private research university based in Portland, Oregon. They were founded in 1905 by the Missouri Synod of the Lutheran Church. As they are now part of the Concordia University Alliance, they have maintained their affiliation with the Lutheran Church.

They have a student body of approximately 1,300 on-campus students, plus 5,000 long-distance learners.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

CTX is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Depaul University is a private school affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. They were founded in 1898 by a Vincentian Congregation in the city of Chicago, where their main campus is still located. Some of their most notable alumni include Dan Evans, general manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and oil consultant George Papadopoulos.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Depaul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University is a private non-profit institution with a strong focus and science and industrial education. They were established in 19891 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where their main campus is still located. This school has over 24,000 students and maintains 18 varsity teams and 31 sports clubs.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Drexel is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Florida State University is a public institution located in Tallahassee, where they were originally founded in 1851 as an agricultural and mechanical college. Their over 41,000 students can take pride in attending an institution that has been ranked as one of the top 20 public universities in the United States by U.S News & World Report.

• BA in Computer Science
• BS in Computer Science

FSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

A private University based in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin University was originally founded by the YMCA in 1902. However, they are no longer affiliated with any religious institution. They run a large number of online and long-distance programs, so the majority of its students are off-campus adult learners who are also working.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

George Mason University, sometimes known AGMU, is a public facility based in the city of Fairfax, Virginia. They date back to 1949. They also have satellite facilities across the state and in South Korea. GMU’s alumni include notable economists and lawyers, such as Nobel Memorial Prize winner Hames Buchanan.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

GMU is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Georgia Southern University is a large public school that prides itself in its “small feel.” They were established in 1906 and currently serve over 26,000 students in their flagship campus of Statesboro. In addition, they maintain a satellite campus in Armstrong. Their varsity teams participate in the NCAA Division I.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Georgia Southern is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Liberty University, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, is one of the wealthiest private universities affiliated with the evangelical Christian Church. It was founded in 1971 as a non-profit and quickly expanded to house over 15,000 on-campus students. In addition, they were among the first to adopt distance-learning modes and now have over 90,000 long-distance students.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Loyola University Chicago is a private institution that dates back to 1870. They are affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, as they were originally founded by a Jesuit congregation. This school now serves approximately 16,000 students on its main campus. It consistently ranks among the best-value private universities in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

LUC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and was first accredited in 1921.

Middle Georgia State University is based in Macon, Georgia. The school dates back to 1884, when it was originally founded by a New Ebenezer Baptist Association. However, it is now a public institution and has no religious affiliation. They currently have over 8,000 students, which provides them with a cozy “small town” feel.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Middle Georgia State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

This private non-profit university is located in the city of La Jolla, California, where it was originally established in 1971. However, they possess 28 urban campuses across the states of California and Nevada, in addition to varied online-based learning programs. They currently serve almost 24,000 students and have over 170,000 alumni.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

NU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

New Mexico State University is located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where they possess a 900-acre urban campus. It is a public school with a strong focus on research. They currently have over 21,000 students, mostly at their main campus in Las Cruces. They also have satellite campuses in Alamogordo, Carlsbad, Grands, and Doña Ana County.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

NMSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern University is a private institution with a history that dates back to 1898. They currently have over 27,000 students on their historical urban campus.

They are well-respected for their co-op educational programs, which maximize practical work experience alongside traditional classroom learning. They also participate in 18 varsity sports.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

NEU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Sometimes referred to as ODU, Old Dominion University is based in Norfolk, Virginia. They were founded in 1930 as a division of the College of William and Mary, but they are now a fully public institution. They serve over 25,000 students and have over 1,000 full-time faculty members. This school maintains 18 athletic teams.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The Oregon Institute of Technology is part of the Oregon State University System. They are based in the college town of Klamath Falls, where they serve over 5,400 students. They currently have an additional campus in Wilsonville, Oregon and manage extension centers in Salem and Seattle. This school is renowned for its emphasis on externships.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Oregon Tech is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Oregon State University was established in 1868 as a public research school and is the flagship of its state’s university system. They possess land, sea, space, and sun grants, which have helped it build a stellar reputation for its research activity and publications. They currently have over 30,000 students on their main campus, which is located in Corvallis, Oregon.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Oregon State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Pace University of New York is a private non-sectarian institution. They were originally established in 1906 as a school of accounting but have now acquired great prestige for their Computer Sciences and Drama programs. In addition to their main New York City campus, its 12,000 students can also access a satellite suburban facility in Westchester.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Pace is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Established in 1875, Park University is a private institution based in Parkville, Missouri. They currently serve over 11,000 students. This university’s unorthodox beginnings included a “work and study” program where future teachers could pay for her education through farm work. This boldness has helped them become one of the top “nontraditional” colleges in the U.S. by the Military Times.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Park is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The World Campus is the online, long-distance based extension arm of the highly ranked Penn State, #10 in Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by  U.S. News & World Report. They were first established in 1998, which makes them one of the first university-level institutions to fully embrace and apply online possibilities. Nowadays, they serve over 13,000 students, with over one-third of them being enrolled in postgraduate programs.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Programming
• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Penn State Online is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Regent University is a private school that keeps a strong affiliation with Evangelical Churches, although they strive to cater to different denominations of them. They were established in 1977 in Virginia Beach, where they have a large suburban campus.

They have approximately 8,600 students, which include an almost equal number of undergraduates and postgraduates.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Regent is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Regis University is a private institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. They were established in 1877 in Denver, Colorado. It currently has over 8,000 students, which makes them one of the leading Jesuit institutions in its state. Regis University also has extension programs in partnership with the University of Ireland and the Jesuit University of Guadalajara.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Regis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

This public school is located in Claremore, Oklahoma, where they have a large suburban campus that serves 4,300 students. They were established in 1909 as a Preparatory School but has now grown to encompass three campuses: the main one, and two branches in Bartlesville and Pryor Creek. They also maintain football and softball teams.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

RSU is a member of and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Saint Leo University is a private school located in Saint Leo, Florida. They were founded in 1889 by the Benedictine Order, and after being re-established as a college, they kept their affiliation with the Catholic Church. Their rural campus currently serves over 11,000 students, who enjoy the benefits of attending one of the highly ranked regional private institutions by U.S. News & World Report.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Saint Leo is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Salem University is a private institution located in the town of Salem, West Virginia. They were established in 1888 by the Seventh Day Baptist Church as a Seminar and Teacher Training Center. Their intimate and hand-picked student body (of just 835 people) include a large number of non-traditional or adult learners.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Salem has been accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1963.

Sometimes affectionately known as SEMO, the Southeast Missouri State University is a public institution based in Cape Girardeu. They were founded in 1873. Despite being located in a relatively small city, the school still houses over 11,000 students who pursue a variety of disciplines. Their varsity teams play in the NCAA Division I.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

SEMO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Southern New Hampshire University is a relatively small liberal arts college located between Manchester and Hooksett in New Hampshire. Here they possess a semi-rural campus that spans for over 300 acres and houses over 4,000 students. The school also has a major long-distance department that serves over 80,000 students.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Located in Chula Vista, California, Southeastern College is a public community college that dates back to 1961. They currently have approximately 19,000 students, making them one of the largest community colleges in the country. This allows them to maintain 15 different varsity teams and to keep strong links with the nearby University of California – San Diego.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Southwestern is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Thomas Edison State University is a publicly funded institution located in Trenton, New Jersey. However, unlike most other members of the State’s University System, they focus almost exclusively on online and long-distance education. They were founded in 1972 and offer a wide array of degrees in liberal arts, technology, and business.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems

TESU is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Based in Cypress, California, Trident University is an online university formerly owned by the Touro University System. As of 2007, they were acquired and managed by Summit Partners. They were established in 1998 and currently have an enrollment of 6,197 students, many of them hailing from outside the United States.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Trident is the only fully online university regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Troy University is located in the city of the same name, in Alabama. This public institution dates back to 1887, when they were founded as part of the State’s Normal School system. Nowadays, they serve over 18,000 students, both online and in their suburban campus. Troy University’s alumni have gone on to important positions across 50 different states.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Troy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Central Florida is a public institution located in Orlando, Florida. They are one of the best ranked universities in the state, in the top list for Most Innovative Schools by U.S. News & World Report. They were founded in 1963 and set out from the very beginning to become a leading feeder institution for NASA. They now have close to 69,000 students.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UCF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Sometimes known as DU, the University of Denver was founded in 1864 by a group of Methodist preachers. However, they are now non-sectarian. They are run privately but possess non-profit status. This means that its more than 11,000 students enjoy a high return of investment, as well as the chance to play on Division I NCAA teams.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science
• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

DU is accredited as a doctoral degree-granting institution by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is authorized to offer post-secondary education in the state of Colorado by the Colorado Department of Higher Education.

The University of Florida is a public research school located in Gainesville. It was originally established in 1853 as a seminary. It is now one of the largest public universities in its state, with over 56,000 students. It has been recognized as the sixth best public school in the country by U.S. News & World Report and as having “high research activity.”

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The University of Illinois at Springfield is a public land grant school that dates back to 1969. It is the newest campus in the state’s school system, which affords its over 5,000 students the opportunity to enjoy high-tech facilities. This school also maintains 16 different varsity teams, which play in Division II of the NCAA.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UIS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Maine at Augusta dates back to 1965. It was created to offer people in Central Maine the means to access select professional or associate degrees without relocating too far. Its urban campus serves over 6,000 students. The school keeps active basketball, bowling, golf, and cross country skiing teams.

• Bachelor’s in Software development

UMA is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Sometimes also referred to as the “Global Campus” of the University of Maryland, the University College dates back to 1947 and focuses on offering online degrees. This public school has its main administrative offices in Adelphi, Maryland. It currently serves over 47,000 students, including people from 140 countries and many active-duty service members.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UMUC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Massachusetts is based in Amherst and dates back to 1863. It is a public school system with six different campuses across the state of Massachusetts, and it serves a total of 72,000 students. This school is well-renowned for its ongoing collaboration program with MIT and Harvard University, the Green High Performance Computing Center.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UMass is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The University of Minnesota at Crookston is a public institution that dates back to 1966. They are a part of the University of Minnesota System but have chosen to differentiate themselves by providing a small-campus feel with a very low student-to-faculty ratio. They currently serve 1,821 students, which means that they all get customized attention.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UMC has secured continued accreditation status from the Higher Learning Commission.

The Omaha Campus of the University of Nebraska system dates back to 1908, when it was originally established as a private Presbyterian seminary. However, they are now a public research school. This institution is currently undergoing rapid expansion, as they have tripled their student body (now 15,000 students) and renewed their facilities.

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science

UNO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The main campus of the University of Wisconsin is located in Madison, where it was originally founded in 1848. They are the largest public research school in the state, as they have 44,000 students, a land grant, and a space grant. Their varsity teams play in the Big Ten League and the NCAA Division I.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

UW is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Western Governors University is a private, non-profit school established by the Governors of the Member States in Salt Lake City, Utah. It dates back to 1997 and was created from the very beginning as a way to use the internet to expand educational opportunities. They now have 110,000 students, all online or long-distance.

• Bachelor’s in Software Development

WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a public institution that dates back to 1906. Although they started out as a Teacher’s College, they have been experiencing very rapid investments and expansion since the mid-1990s. They now have over 20,000 students in their semi-rural campus. Their football team plays in the NCAA Division I.

• Bachelor’s in Information Technology

WKU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Getting Your Computer Programming Degree Online

So, what do you need to do to tap into a computer programming education?

1. Choose your specialty.
2. Narrow your choice of universities.
3. Identify sources of financial aid.
4. Apply to 5-10 schools to make sure you get in.

Once you enroll, take as many classes as you can and learn as much as you can to get a jump-start on your new career!

The post 50 Best Online Computer Programming Degree Programs [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

With one year masters programs online, you can finish your entire master’s degree – from zero credit hours to 36 credit hours – in just one year or less!

So, if you’re looking for a fast track to success – a promotion, a higher salary, or even a complete career change – you don’t have to invest years of time or put your life on hold to get ahead.

It is possible (and actually not too strenuous) to earn your master’s degree in just one year!

Best One Year Masters Programs

Some of the most common one-year master’s programs include:

• Master’s in Accounting
• Master of Business Administration
• Master’s in Computer Science
• Master’s in Criminal Justice
• Master’s in Cybersecurity
• Master’s in Data Science
• Master of Education
• Master’s in Finance
• Master of Healthcare Administration
• Master’s in Information Technology
• Master’s in Management
• Master’s in Marketing
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
• Master’s in Psychology
• Master of Public Health
• Master of Social Work

In many professions, a master’s degree is necessary to secure a job and advance in the field. Traditionally, the process to earn this advanced degree is arduous, and only the top students complete the programs to earn their degrees. But now, there are alternatives! Here are some fields in which you can earn your master’s degree quickly.

By enrolling in accelerated masters programs online without a thesis requirement, you can earn your master’s degree in just one year. These programs are fast-paced and rigorous, so you will still need to work hard, but you can earn the same prestigious master’s degree in much less time in these 1 year masters programs online.

Master’s in Accounting Degree

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, an accelerated online program can help you earn a one year masters program online in the field of accounting, helping you move into mid- to senior-level career opportunities quickly.

You may be able to choose from concentrations such as:

• Finance or Insurance
• Government Accounting
• Tax Preparation
• Accounting or Bookkeeping

A 1 Year Master’s in Accounting will help provide a deeper understanding of accounting than if you chose an MBA with a concentration in Accounting.

An accounting masters will also help prepare you to pass the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam and move into a specialized accounting career.

Master of Business Administration (MBA) Program

One year masters programs online in Business Administration (MBA) will provide in-depth knowledge of all facets of business, and allow you to dig deeper into an area of specialization.

Some popular MBA concentrations include:

• Finance
• Marketing
• Management Information Systems
• Entrepreneurship

Look for an accelerated one year program that will allow you to complete a capstone project or internship experience in lieu of a thesis.

You will get hands-on experience and earn your MBA in just 1 year!

Master’s in Computer Science Program

A one year masters degree in Computer Science degree provides advanced knowledge of design, programming, and application of computing systems. Because technology is prevalent in nearly every industry, this degree is extremely versatile and can land you a very lucrative and successful career.

You may be able to choose from a general degree or specializations such as:

• Data Science
• Game Development
• Computer Security
• Computer Networking
• Software Engineering
• Multimedia

By taking accelerated online courses, you can earn your Master of Computer Science degree one year sooner and then be eligible to apply for higher-level jobs or pursue a Ph.D.

Master’s in Criminal Justice Program

A masters degree in Criminal Justice will help prepare you to apply research and leadership strategies in order to make decisions in the justice system.

Whether you want to advance your career with the local police department, work for the federal government, or pursue further education in the field, this degree can open many doors.

There are many areas of concentration to help focus your education, such as:

• Forensic Psychology
• Justice Administration
• Criminal Behavior
• Homeland Security
• Public Safety

Look for 1 year master’s degree programs or design your own by choosing accelerated online courses in criminal justice.

Master’s in Cybersecurity

With a Master’s in Cybersecurity degree program, you can become a highly skilled professional in protecting and defending critical information systems. Whether combating cyber threats, securing networks, or ensuring data privacy, a master’s degree in cyber security can help you to excel in the dynamic world of cybersecurity.

Masters programs may offer specialized tracks, including:

• Network Security
• Cyber Threat Intelligence
• Digital Forensics
• Information Assurance
• Cloud Security

Many cybersecurity masters programs offer flexible online formats, enabling you to balance your studies with work and personal commitments. Some programs provide accelerated one year master’s paths, allowing you to complete your degree efficiently. Embrace the opportunity to safeguard businesses and organizations from cyber risks with a master’s in cybersecurity.

Master’s in Data Science

With a Master’s in Data Science degree program, you can earn the skills necessary to compete in the rapidly growing field of data analytics and technology. Whether analyzing big data, developing machine learning models, or extracting valuable insights, an accelerated master’s degree program in data science equips you with the skills to thrive in diverse industries.

Master’s programs may offer specialized tracks, including:

• Big Data Analytics
• Machine Learning and AI
• Data Visualization and Communication
• Business Analytics
• Data Engineering

Many data science master’s programs provide flexible online options, allowing you to balance your studies with work commitments. Some programs offer accelerated master’s degree formats, enabling you to earn your degree in a shorter time frame. Embrace the opportunity to harness the power of data and drive innovation with a data science master’s degree.

Master of Education (M.Ed.) Program

For teachers and administrators who have their bachelor’s degrees and certifications, earning a Master of Education is often the next step to help enhance teaching skills and move into a new area of specialization. This degree is also an option for those who hold bachelor’s degrees in other fields, who wish to get into teaching.

Different schools and programs offer their own selection of concentrations.

Here are some common choices:

• Curriculum and Instruction
• Special Education
• Early Childhood Education
• Higher Education
• Secondary Education
• Educational Leadership / Administration
• Educational Technology

By earning your 1 year masters degree online in Education through an accelerated program, you can continue to teach and maintain other obligations while earning your advanced degree in just one year.

Masters in Finance Program

No matter what the economic climate is, there is always a demand for experts in finance. With a degree in Finance, you may qualify for higher-level positions with significantly higher salaries and more advancement opportunities than employees who hold only bachelor’s degrees.

One year degree programs may offer specializations such as:

• Accounting
• Corporate Finance
• International Business
• Real Estate
• Statistics

If you need to juggle your current job, childcare and other commitments, an accelerated online program can help you earn your Master’s in Finance online in just one year.

Master’s in Healthcare Administration Program

One year masters programs in Healthcare Administration (MHA) may be a good choice if you’re interested in managing hospitals or other health organizations, or if you want to get into public health infrastructure or consulting. This degree program will help move you into a leadership role with excellent earning potential.

Some common areas of concentration include:

• Operations and Leadership
• Health Policy
• Health Information Technology
• Business Administration
• Public Health Administration

A number of universities offer accelerated one year masters degree online programs in healthcare administration!

Master’s in Information Technology Program

If you enjoy technology and business, you may want to pursue an advanced degree in IT. You’ll not only learn about the latest advancements and best practices for IT departments but also how to manage others.

You could choose to focus your studies on any of the following:

• Database Management
• Project Management
• Hardware Engineering
• Software Development
• Programming
• Information System Architecture
• IT Security
• Web Design

You could complete your one year master’s degree program and re-enter the workforce at a higher knowledge and salary level.

Master’s in Management Program

Management is a broad field that encompasses utilizing personnel, facilities, and other resources to the best of your ability.

You could tailor your classes around any of these specializations:

• Human Resources
• Operations Management
• Project Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Organizational Leadership
• Non-Profit Management

Any of these fields provide plenty of opportunities for one year master’s degree program graduates.

Master’s in Marketing Program

If you have a knack for understanding how people think, you might want to pursue a one year master’s degree in marketing program. You’ll learn how to better understand and influence buying decisions to help make your company as successful as possible.

Here are a few of the areas you could specialize in:

• Market Research
• Digital Marketing
• Content Marketing
• Social Media Marketing
• Public Relations
• Product Marketing
• Direct Marketing

No matter which concentration you choose, or if you’d rather go the general route, there are 1 year master programs available.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is an advanced degree for a registered nurse, but an entry-level degree for nurse educators and managers. With it, you may pursue a position as a nurse administrator, health policy expert, or clinical nurse leader, or you could go on to pursue a doctorate degree.

To compete for the most competitive jobs, choose an area of specialization such as:

• Gerontology
• Nurse Anesthetist
• Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
• Midwifery
• Orthopedics

Accelerated MSN programs are available online, providing flexibility and moving you through the degree program quickly.

Master’s in Psychology

A one year master’s degree in Psychology comes in two forms: a Master of Arts, with more of a liberal arts focus; and a Master of Science, with more of a focus on research and the sciences. Both will focus on understanding the nature and behaviors of humans.

You may opt for a general program or consider specialties such as:

• Forensic Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Child Psychology

To earn your Master’s in Psychology in just one year, look for accelerated online programs without thesis requirements.

Master of Public Health (MPH) Programs

With a one year Master of Public Health (MPH) degree program, you may work for a non-profit or government organization, a hospital group, or in another capacity, helping to improve health for the general population.

MPH degree programs may offer concentrations in:

• Biostatistics
• Environmental Health
• Health Policy and Administration
• Social and Behavioral Sciences

Accelerated online courses may help you move through the MPH program more quickly and land a job sooner. You can also get your MPH online, no GRE required.

Master of Social Work (MSW)

With a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program, you can make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and communities. Whether working with vulnerable populations, advocating for social justice, or providing counseling services, an MSW can open doors to various rewarding career paths.

MSW degree programs may offer specialized tracks, including:

• Clinical Social Work
• School Social Work
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling
• Family and Child Welfare
• Healthcare Social Work

Flexible online options allow you to pursue your MSW while managing other responsibilities. Some programs offer accelerated tracks, enabling you to complete your degree faster. Embrace the opportunity to make a positive difference in society with an MSW, and in some cases, you may find programs that do not require the GRE for admission.

One Year Masters Programs for Medical School

It is increasingly difficult to get into medical school, so you will need an impressive application. If you currently have a bachelor’s degree and need to either improve your GPA or earn the necessary pre-requisites to gain admission to medical school, there are two options for you to consider.

• Post Baccalaureate Programs (Postbac): This is a continuation of your undergraduate education rather than a degree track. It influences your existing college GPA, so it’s a good option if you had a less-than-stellar GPA previously.
• Special Masters Programs (SMP): There are one year graduate degree programs specially designed for pre-med students. They result in a separate GPA on your application.

Both options can prepare you to apply to medical school in about one year. Which program is best for you will depend on your existing GPA and the pre-requisite courses you already have under your belt.

One Year Masters Programs – Blueprint for Finishing Your Master’s Degree Fast

One of the most common questions we see is: How can I finish my master’s program in 1 year at a reputable college?

Here’s how:

Traditionally, master’s degree programs require two or more years of full-time study. A few universities now offer one year master’s degree programs, but for those that don’t, you can design your own! By taking accelerated online courses, you can breeze through the courses at a much faster pace and finish in just one year.

Here’s an example of how you can finish a normal (non-accelerated) 36-credit master’s program at a college that offers 8-week online classes:

• Fall Semester 1: Take two 8-week online courses (credits earned: 6 credit hours)
• Fall Semester 2: Take two 8-week online courses (cumulative credits earned: 12 credit hours)
• Spring Semester 1: Take two 8-week online courses (cumulative credits earned: 18 credit hours)
• Spring Semester 2: Take two 8-week online courses (cumulative credits earned: 24 credit hours)
• Summer Semester 1: Take two 8-week online courses (cumulative credits earned: 30 credit hours)
• Summer Semester 2: Take two 8-week online courses (cumulative credits earned: 36 credit hours)

This could also be adjusted to fit 6-week online classes, moving you through at an even faster pace.

As you can see, by taking just 2 classes at a time, you can complete 12 classes, which is 36 hours, earning your master’s degree in just one year.

To save even more time, select a one year master’s degree program that does not require a thesis. Non-thesis degree programs are becoming more and more popular among online master’s programs. These degree programs generally offer a capstone class in lieu of the conventional thesis, providing a valuable hands-on learning experience that can be completed in a fraction of the time.

Accelerated, non-thesis online masters degree programs are still very demanding. You will need to devote a lot of time to your studies, from start to finish. But it will be well worth your efforts. One year master’s degree programs can open many new doors for you professionally.

Advantages of 1 Year Masters Programs

In order to earn your master’s degree online in one year, you will have a busy and challenging year! But the hard work will be worth it.

Here are some of the benefits of earning your master’s degree online in one year:

• Flexibility – Online learning will allow you to fit your education around family, work, and other existing commitments.
• Faster than campus masters programs – Most traditional master’s programs will take two or more years to complete, but with accelerated online classes, you can finish in just one year.
• Cheaper – It depends on the program you choose, but online programs are often less expensive than on-campus programs.
• Professional advantages – You can apply for jobs that require applicants to have master’s degrees, or you can get promoted into higher-ranking positions within your current company.
• Increased earning potential – The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that full-time working adults with master’s degrees earn $228 per week more than workers who hold a bachelor’s degree!

Disadvantages of 1 Year Masters Programs

In some instances, a one year master’s degree program may not be the right fit for you. There are a few disadvantages you should keep in mind.

• May not provide the depth of knowledge required for certain advanced positions
• May be too demanding to maintain full-time employment
• May offer fewer networking opportunities

Weigh these disadvantages against the advantages to determine whether a one year master’s program is the best choice for you.

What One Year Masters Programs Are There?

You can find one year master’s programs in Business, Education, Accounting, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Psychology, Finance, Computer Science, Nursing, Criminal Justice, Healthcare Administration, and more!

If your master’s program isn’t already offered in a one year format, look for accelerated online courses that will allow you to complete the program quickly. You may be able to design your own one year master’s degree program.

What Are the 1 Year Masters Programs Benefits

The first benefit is that you’ll finish faster. These types of programs are also more flexible, so they’re a good fit for working students. They’re also less expensive while providing you the opportunity to increase your earning potential.

What Is the Easiest Masters Degree Program?

Easy is a relative term; which master’s degree program is the easiest depends on your aptitude, experience, and interests.

For many people, online master’s programs that don’t require GRE or programs that do not require a thesis are the easiest because they don’t require such intense research and writing. More and more online master’s degree programs are doing away with thesis requirements, opting instead for hands-on capstone or internship experiences.

How Much Time Is Required for Masters Program Completion?

The amount of time required to complete a master’s degree is typically two years. However, if you follow the one year degree plan outlined in this article, you can easily earn your master’s degree in just one year.

What Are Special Masters Programs?

Special Master’s Programs (SMPs) are graduate degree programs designed for pre-med students. They typically take 1-2 years to complete and can significantly strengthen your medical school application.

What Are the Fastest Online Masters Programs?

The fastest online master’s program is one that does not require a thesis.

Some of the fastest online master’s programs include:

• Business Administration (MBA)
• Education
• Accounting
• Public Health (MPH)
• Psychology
• Finance
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice

By taking accelerated online courses and not having to complete a thesis, you can complete the master’s program in as little as one year.

Can You Get a Masters Degree in 1 Year?

Yes, you can earn your master’s degree in one year by choosing an accelerated online program with no thesis requirement.

As an example, many online programs operate in 8-week terms. By taking two classes at a time during each term, you will earn 36 credit hours in one full year – enough to earn your master’s degree in many programs!

50 One Year Masters Programs Rankings (Finish in 1 Year or Less)

Rankings Methodology: Each of these universities is fully accredited and offer one year masters programs.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

University Accreditation

Alvernia is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

American University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.

• Online Master’s in Education

University Accreditation

Anderson is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Master of International Health and Management

University Accreditation

Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• Online Master’s in Media Management
• Online Master’s in Sport Administration

University Accreditation

Arkansas State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Online Master’s in Accountancy

University Accreditation

Auburn is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• One Year Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

Babson is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Online Master’s Degree Programs:

• Online Master’s in Education – Curriculum & Instruction (Elementary Math and Science Education)
• Online Master’s in Education – Curriculum & Instruction (Mathematics Education)
• Online Master’s in Education – Educational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Education – Educational Technology
• Online Master’s in Education – Special Education
• Online Master’s in Health Sciences – Clinical Laboratory Sciences
• Online Master’s in Health Sciences – Health Care Administration
• Online Master’s in Health Sciences – Healthcare Informatics
• Online Master’s in Health Sciences – Nutrition
• Online Master’s in Nursing Administration
• Online Master’s in Nursing Education
• Online Master’s in Public Affairs
• Online Master’s in Social Work
• Online MBA
• Online MBA – Financial Planning
• Online MBA – Health Care Administration
• Online MBA – International Trade

University Accreditation

Benedictine is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online Master’s Degree Programs:

• Online Master’s in Accounting
• Online Master’s in Communication
• Online Master’s in Counseling Psychology
• Online Master’s in Education – Early Childhood
• Online Master’s in Education – Leadership
• Online Master’s in Education – Teaching
• Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
• Online Master’s in Kinesiology
• Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Public Administration
• Online Master’s in Public Health
• Online Master’s in Public Relations
• Online MBA – Accounting
• Online MBA – General Management

University Accreditation

California Baptist is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Online Master Degree Programs:

• Online Master’s in Education
• Online Master’s in Educational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Health Care Administration
• Online Master’s in Recreation and Tourism

University Accreditation

California State is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

• Online Master’s in Social Work

University Accreditation

Campbellsville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Master Degree Programs:

• Online Master’s in Psychology
• Online MBA – Accounting
• Online MBA – Human Resource Management
• Online MBA – Project Management

University Accreditation

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Online Master’s in Athletic Leadership

University Accreditation

Castleton is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Online Masters in Information Technology and Administrative Management

University Accreditation

Central Washington is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

• Online Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

Clarkson is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Online Masters Programs:

• Online Master’s in Engineering
• Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership

University Accreditation

Colorado State – Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Online Masters in Teaching

University Accreditation

Concordia is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• One Year Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

Cornell is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• Master’s in Education

University Accreditation

Cumberland is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• One Year Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

Emory is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Masters Programs:

• Online Master’s in Finance
• Online Master’s in Information Systems
• Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management
• Online MBA

University Accreditation

Fontbonne is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Online Master of Business Administration (MBA)

University Accreditation

Frostburg is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• Online Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

Greenville is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• One Year Master of Business Administration (MBA)

University Accreditation

Hult is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Online Master’s in Criminal Justice

University Accreditation

Lamar is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Master’s Degree Programs:

• Online Master’s in Athletic Administration
• Online Master’s in Parks and Recreation
• Online Master’s in Science in Sport Management
• Online Master’s in Sport Leadership
• Online Master’s in Sport Tourism & Hospitality Management

University Accreditation

Lasell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Online Master of Business Administration

University Accreditation

Louisiana State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Masters Degrees:

• Online MBA
• Online MBA – Accounting
• Online MBA – Finance
• Online MBA – Human Resource Management
• Online MBA – International Business
• Online MBA – Management
• Online MBA – Managerial Analytics
• Online MBA – Marketing
• Online MBA – Organizational Leadership

University Accreditation

Mercy is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• MA in Public Policy and Administration
• MS in Data Science
• MS in Information Systems

University Accreditation

Northwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Master of Business Administration

Degree Accreditation

Point Loma Nazarene is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

• Online Master’s in Social Work

Degree Accreditation

Saint Leo is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Online Master of Business Administration

Degree Accreditation

Schiller is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

Online Masters Degree Programs:

• Online MBA – Accounting
• Online MBA – Aerospace Logistics
• Online MBA – Entrepreneurship
• Online MBA – Finance
• Online MBA – General
• Online MBA – Health Care Information Systems
• Online MBA – Hospitality Management
• Online MBA – Human Resources
• Online MBA – Management
• Online MBA – Marketing
• Online MBA – Native American Leadership
• Online MBA – Safety
• Online MBA – Strategic Communication

Degree Accreditation

Southeastern Oklahoma State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online Master’s Programs:

• Online Master’s in Accounting
• Online Master’s in Accounting Finance
• Online Master’s in Creative Writing
• Online Master’s in Criminal Justice
• Online Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction
• Online Master’s in Cyber Security
• Online Master’s in Data Analytics
• Online Master’s in English
• Online Master’s in English & Creative Writing
• Online Master’s in Finance
• Online Master’s in Health Information Management
• Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration
• Online Master’s in Higher Education Administration
• Online Master’s in History
• Online Master’s in Human Resource Management
• Online Master’s in Information Technology
• Online Master’s in Management
• Online Master’s in Marketing
• Online Master’s in Nurse Educator (MSN)
• Online Master’s in Nursing (MSN)
• Online Master’s in Operations & Project Management
• Online Master’s in Organizational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Patient Safety & Quality
• Online Master’s in Psychology
• Online Master’s in Public Health
• Online Master’s in Sports Management

Degree Accreditation

Southern New Hampshire is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Online Master’s in Accountancy

Degree Accreditation

Stetson is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Master’s Degree Programs:

• Online MBA
• Online MBA – Accounting
• Online MBA – Finance
• Online MBA – Healthcare Administration

Degree Accreditation

Texas A&M is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Masters Programs:

• Online Master’s in Trade & Logistics Management
• Online MBA – Accounting
• Online MBA – Cyber Security Management
• Online MBA – General
• Online MBA – Human Resource Management
• Online MBA – Marketing
• Online MBA – Sports Administration

Degree Accreditation

Thomas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Masters Programs:

• Online Master’s in Criminal Justice
• Online Master’s in Engineering Management
• Online Master’s in Information Studies
• Online Master’s in Leadership
• Online MBA

Degree Accreditation

Trine is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Master of Business Administration – Finance

Degree Accreditation

UCM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Online Master’s in Education

Degree Accreditation

Findlay is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Master’s in Finance

Degree Accreditation

U of Miami is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Online Master of Business Administration

Degree Accreditation

U of North Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Masters Programs:

• Online MBA
• Online MBA – Business Analytics
• Online MBA – Financial Services
• Online MBA – Supply Chain Management

Degree Accreditation

UNC – Pembroke is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Online Master’s Programs:

• Online Master’s in Advanced Data Analytics
• Online Master’s in Digital Communication Analytics
• Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education
• Online Master’s in Educational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Health Services Administration
• Online Master’s in Learning Technologies
• Online MBA
• Online MBA – Marketing
• Online MBA – Supply Chain

Degree Accreditation

UNT is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Online Master’s in Technology Commercialization

Degree Accreditation

UTexas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Masters Degree Programs Online:

• Online Master’s in Bilingual / ESL
• Online Master’s in Educational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Public Administration
• Online Master’s in Special Education
• Online Master’s in Special Education – Autism
• Online MBA
• Online MBA – Finance

Degree Accreditation

UTPB is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Degree Accreditation

UVM is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Online Masters in Sport Management

Degree Accreditation

Western Carolina is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Online Master’s in Information Technology Management

Degree Accreditation

Western Governors is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Online Master Degrees:

• Online Master’s in Information Systems
• Online Master’s in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Degree Accreditation

Wright State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

How Do I Get Started in a 1 Year Masters Program?

Traditional master’s programs can be intimidating – two or more years of study and a lengthy research-laden thesis. But that’s not the only way — there are one year graduate programs available!

It’s possible to earn your master’s degree in just one year by choosing an accelerated online program with no thesis requirement. In just a year, you could be ready to enter a new career with a better salary or pursue your next advanced degree.

Ready to make it happen? Narrow down your college search with our master’s program search tool and get matched to a reputable university that will help you reach your personal and professional goals.

The post 50 Best One Year Masters Programs Online – Finish in 1 Year or Less [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

Enrolling in a one year MPH program may enable you to advance your public health career and increase your earning potential while simultaneously keeping your educational costs down.

Earning a Master of Public Health can help give you the skills necessary to equip and empower people to improve their health around the world while still earning a healthy paycheck.

Types of One Year MPH Programs

The following list provides a brief description of different types of one-year MPH programs that are available to consider. Click on one that interests you to jump to that section of the page.

• MPH – General
• Biostatistics
• Child and Maternal Health
• Community Health
• Disaster Management and Emergency Preparedness
• Environmental Health
• Epidemiology
• Global Health
• Health and Human Services
• Health Science
• Infectious Disease
• Nutrition
• Occupational Health
• Public Health Policy
• Social and Behavioral Science

The decision of what to study depends on what type of public health career you would like to pursue after graduation.

MPH – General

Students in a general public health online degree program are provided knowledge on concepts, theories, and practices of public health. Upon completion of the program, you may be able to research, analyze, create, and implement various techniques involving public health.

You may also be introduced to biostatistics, epidemiology, health policy and management, environmental health, and social and behavioral health, which are the core courses of the study of public health.

Graduates of the general program may go on to lead successful careers as program coordinators, project managers, program managers, healthcare consultants, research associates, health educators, data analysts, and more.

This is a good option to choose if you are unsure about the exact field of public health that you would like to enter; this program introduces you to several different focuses that may help you decide.

Biostatistics

The area of focus in this program is not only public health, but also excessive training in quantitative methods and techniques. This program may teach you the necessary statistical procedures and analysis of studies regarding healthcare.

A person that possesses strong mathematical, analytical, and research skills may be best suited for a biostatistics program in public health.

Upon graduation, you can expect to become a collaborator dealing with statistics most of the day, a consultant at a large or small company, or a technical representative providing needed resources in the biostatistics and public health field.

Child and Maternal Health

This program is centered around the health of mothers and children, which includes the developmental, social, mental, and behavioral health.

Most graduates of the child and maternal health program earn careers as research associates, program coordinators, program managers, research coordinators, epidemiologists, or program directors.

You may learn the geographical and socioeconomic factors that influence maternal and child health as well as how to create health programs for mothers and children. An individual that is interested in researching and learning about the health of mothers and children and desires to help them may be an excellent candidate for this program.

Community Health

Graduates of this program may pursue a variety of career paths, such as mental health counselors, health educators, social workers, community health workers, community outreach coordinators, public health nurses, and more.

The community health program may teach you how to conduct assessments on communities as well as develop and evaluate health programs. Additionally, you may learn how a sickness or disease impacts a population and how to create a safer community for people to live and work daily.

This may be the perfect program for someone that is interested in helping communities, whether it be addressing illnesses, safety, jobs, environmental issues, poverty, drug use, etc.

Disaster Management and Emergency Preparedness

If you decide on this program, you may learn how to solve problems, conduct research, address health issues and inequalities, and oversee and evaluate health programs in multicultural areas.

A program in disaster management and emergency preparedness may lead you to a career as an emergency management specialist, safety manager, business development representative, security director, safety supervisor, safety coordinator, or research scientist.

Individuals who can maintain composure during emergency events, work well under pressure, and possess excellent problem-solving and research skills may be best suited for this field.

Environmental Health

This is an MPH program option that teaches students about preventing diseases, occupational hazards, negative quality of air and water, and toxicology and poisons.

With the guidance of this program, you may be able to pursue a career as an environmental health and safety specialist, epidemiologist, environmental scientist, industrial hygienist, environmental health and safety officer, or toxicologist.

If you are a naturally curious person and want to learn how people, occupations, and geographical settings can impact the overall health of the environment, a program in environmental health may be perfect for you.

Epidemiology

An MPH degree with a focus in epidemiology is centered around learning about various diseases, illnesses, and risks that may occur and affect the population. Professors of this program teach students various methods and techniques to analyze data, perform research, and put your findings into words.

With the study of epidemiology, you may pursue a career as an epidemiologist, data analyst, research associate, infection control practitioner, research analyst, or clinical research coordinator. This can be a great program choice for a person who is concerned with keeping the public safe from any diseases or illnesses.

Global Health

A public health program in global health prepares you for a career as a healthcare consultant, research associate, health educator, data analyst, program coordinator, or program manager.

During this program, you may learn how to analyze, plan, and implement necessary strategies to ensure the quality of world-wide, public health improves.

Additionally, you may be taught how to determine what causes certain illnesses and diseases in foreign countries as well as how to develop health policies and procedures to lessen the stress of risks that could occur.

If you are a person that desires to help people, wants to understand other cultures, likes to travel, and enjoys conducting research to find out about the causes of illnesses, this program may be beneficial to you.

Health and Human Services

An individual interested in a health and human services program may prepare to learn the different prevention and intervention techniques to improve the quality of life; some of these techniques include case management, advocacy, community collaboration, crisis response, and conflict resolution.

This program may lead you to a successful career as a substance abuse counselor, guidance counselor, human resources associate, human resources generalist, human resources manager, analyst, or inside sales representative.

Earning an education in health and human services may serve you well if you are interested in making the life and well-being of people better.

Health Science

A graduate of the health science program may be able to land a job as a project manager, program coordinator, healthcare consultant, operations manager, and more. This program teaches students the necessities of research and scientific principles to provide outstanding medical healthcare.

You may also learn how to utilize technology in certain medical practices, create new medical strategies, and ultimately understand all the aspects of the field of healthcare.

This program may benefit an exceptional student that possesses advanced research skills, understands the operations of the medical field, and would like to help medical facilities provide the best possible medical practices to patients.

Infectious Disease

An infectious disease program educates students on how diseases and illnesses are spread from person-to-person and the techniques to control them.

You may gain knowledge on how to collect and analyze data, raise awareness to the public, and teach people how to treat and prevent certain illnesses and diseases. This program may lead to careers as an infection control manager, infection control director, staff development coordinator, disease intervention specialist, or epidemiologist.

If you are a person that is interested in minimizing diseases and illnesses, wants to understand where they come from and how a person acquires and spreads them, and desires to educate society on resources to treat infectious diseases, this program may be a good choice for you.

Nutrition

This program provides knowledge and skills in nutritional counseling, educating the public, and promoting good health.

With the comprehension of this program, you may be able to apply to become a registered dietician, clinical dietician, project manager, program director, or program analyst.

The person who is best suited for this program may be intrigued by the study of food and nutrition and how they affect people’s health and lives.

Occupational Health

An MPH degree with a focus in occupational health teaches students how to develop and promote healthier work environments. You may learn how to respond to emergency issues, handle any disastrous situations that may come up, and how to create programs and policies to enforce a healthy atmosphere at work.

Most graduates of this program pursue career paths as environment and health safety specialists, safety managers, industrial hygienists, and safety engineers.

This may be a great program for those interested in making the workplace healthier and safer by raising awareness, implementing policies, and creating programs that employers can easily access to gain information.

Public Health Policy

A public health policy program may open the doors to becoming a health policy analyst, research associate, healthcare consultant, program analyst, business analyst, public health analyst, or research analyst.

The professors of this program provide insight on the latest and most important health policy issues, health care systems, and health programs throughout the world.

The person who is best suited for this program may possess the desire and motivation to study the operations of health systems and come up with better ideas and strategies for managing and delivering healthcare.

Social and Behavioral Science

Students in a social and behavioral science program may be introduced to the psychological and sociological aspects that impact public health.

For example, a student in this program may be required to research and analyze how society and behavior react to health programs, the motivation for people to continue being healthy, and how society responds to health problems.

Upon graduation, you may be able to earn a job as a program coordinator, project manager, health educator, program director, epidemiologist, or research analyst. A person that has taken courses in psychology or sociology and possesses advanced research skills may do well in this program.

Online Master of Public Health – MPH Curriculum

While every university offers differing areas of focus or specialty, as a result of the accreditation system, you can expect to see the same type of classes whether you go to an Ivy-League school or to a state university.

Some of the courses you might expect to see in an MPH program include:

• Foundations of Public Health and Health Policy
• Epidemiology
• Applied Epidemiology
• Biostatistics
• Ethics in Health and Healthcare
• Health Services Administration
• Using Data to Inform Decision Making
• Health Policy
• Research Methods for Public Health
• Public Health Project Planning
• Practicum

Regardless of where you attend, an accredited MPH can help provide you with the skills and tools to make a difference in the world by supporting the public health sphere.

What Is MPH Online?

A Master of Public Health (MPH) is a skill-based professional degree that provides an in-depth understanding of public health and helps develop the tools and skills necessary to be a leader or administrator in the public health field.

If you enjoy working with a variety of individuals to support better health through research, administration, education, or program development, pursuing an MPH may be a natural progression. Having your MPH might move you from a middle-level employee into leadership within both your organization and the public health field.

To develop the skills necessary to be a leader in the public health field through an MPH, you can expect to complete 36 to 42 credit hours in a non-thesis professional graduate degree program.

For many students, investing in an MPH is attractive as it may allow you to increase your earning potential while still remaining connected to the public health field.

An MPH may be completed in a variety of ways, whether by attending classes at a brick-and-mortar college campus, doing a part-time residency on a physical campus and completing other courses online, or completing your entire MPH online.

One Year MPH Programs – How to Finish in 1 Year or Less

If an MPH sounds attractive, but you don’t want to invest the next 2-4 years getting your degree, a one year MPH program may be a great solution. If you are willing to put in the effort, it is entirely possible to get your MPH in one year!

Several accredited universities offer a 12-month accelerated track where you can take 2 classes at the same time (essentially working 60-80 hours a week) to complete a 36-hour non-thesis MPH program in 1 year.

There is a catch, however. Many universities have stringent expectations for students that are enrolled in an accelerated program of this intensity. These expectations can include barring students from being employed while in the program or a minimum GPA of 3.5 in your undergrad.

Despite these high expectations, completing your MPH in one year instead of 2 or even 4 may be beneficial as it will allow you to start earning that higher paycheck sooner, making the sacrifices more worthwhile.

1 Year Online MPH Programs vs. Campus 1 Year MPH Programs

You’ve evaluated the various aspects of an MPH program and decided that an accelerated 1-year MPH is the right move for you. But there are many routes that you may take to an accelerated MPH, including spending an intensive year studying on campus or taking the complete degree online from the comfort of your home.

Spending a year on campus to complete your MPH may allow you to connect with a more diverse student population. This in-person connecting can build your professional network opening new opportunities down the line.

However, studying on campus also requires adhering to a specific schedule and location which can be burdensome when you are in an accelerated program. Completing your MPH through a 1 year online MPH program may provide many benefits if you have the discipline to work an 80-hour workweek from home.

One of the most significant benefits of an online MPH program is the flexibility that it provides. An online MPH is not only flexible in its location and schedule but also in its requirements with many online programs waiving the GRE requirement.

Choosing an online MPH program might also allow you to control the pacing of your studies, giving you control over your schedule instead of your schedule controlling you.

Online MPH Programs No GRE Requirement

The GRE (Graduate Record Exam) used to be the starting point of all graduate studies, pinpointing those students who would be successful in graduate-level education and barring those who would not.

However, many universities have found that standardized testing such as the GRE does not indicate whether or not a student would be successful in the public health field. As a result, there are multiple online MPH programs with no GRE requirement, clearing one more hurdle for you in your journey to a Master of Public Health.

MPH Careers

With an MPH in your portfolio, the opportunities for career advancement can be quite varied, from social work to epidemiology.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Completing a Master of Public Health may give you the opportunity to provide high-quality care and guidance in a variety of different career paths.

Accreditation for an MPH Program Online

It is very important to make sure the MPH program you are applying to has been accredited by an accrediting agency. This shows employers and other colleges and universities that you have completed a program that meets the standard educational requirements needed to be successful in the field.

The two different types of accrediting agencies for an MPH program are Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) and regional accreditation.

CEPH is a national accrediting agency that provides accreditation to colleges of public health as well as public health programs. With this accreditation, your online MPH program may be highly regarded by prospective employers.

CEPH is part of the Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors, and this accrediting agency ensures that schools and programs are providing a high-quality education and training methods to achieve greatness in the field of public health.

Regional accreditation involves six different accrediting agencies that provide accreditation to colleges and universities depending on their region or location. For example, a college or university located in the south may have received its regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Financial Aid for an Online MPH

You may not have to foot the bill for an MPH degree entirely on your own. There are different types of financial resources you should look into, including scholarships, educational awards, work-study programs, state and federal grants, and student loans.

An easy way to find out what federal aid you qualify for is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is an easy and quick process created by the federal government that can be accessed online.

Questions Related to Earning an MPH Degree Online

Here are our answers to a few more questions you might have before enrolling in an MPH program.

How Much Does an MPH Program Cost?

An online MPH program can cost anywhere between $16,000 and $60,000. The price depends on if you are looking for a program in-state or out-of-state as well as the cost of the fees related to the program.

However, it is important to remember that the most expensive program does not mean it is the best program for you; you should research different programs regardless of the cost and decide if it aligns with your interests, educational goals, and future career goals.

How Long Is an MPH Program?

An MPH program can range from 1-2 years depending on the program and college you choose to earn your degree from. It also depends on how long you take to complete your studies.

Some online colleges allow students to complete the courses at their own pace or through an accelerated format, which could result in a longer or shorter degree program.

What Can I Do with a Master’s Degree in Public Health?

The field of public health consists of dealing with finances, conducting large amounts of research, and working with people and communities that need your help.

There are various career paths that graduates with a master’s degree in public health may pursue. Some of these careers include biostatistician, epidemiologist, environmental health scientist, health educator, and medical and health service manager.

Universities Offering MPH Programs Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

• 60 credit hours

ATSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 60 credit hours

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 53 credit hours

Dartmouth is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• 56 credit hours

Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• 43 credit hours

ETSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

• 45 credit hours

FIU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

• 45 credit hours

GW is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• 45 credit hours

Harvard is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

• 39-42 credit hours

Indiana State has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1915.

• 80 credit hours

Johns Hopkins is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• 46 credit hours

Kent State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.

• 72 credit hours

NU is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

• 42 credit hours

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

• 56 credit hours

Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 42 credit hours

TAMU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• 42 credit hours

UA is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• 33 credit hours

UC Berkeley is accredited by Western Association of Schools & Colleges.

• 48 credit hours

UF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• 48 credit hours

U of Illinois is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 45 credit hours

UMD is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• 42 credit hours

UMich is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 42 credit hours

UN is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 42 credit hours

UNC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• 39-40 credit hours

UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• 48 credit hours

UNT is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• 45-47 credit hours

Pitt is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• 45 credit hours

USC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• 42 credit hours

USF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission on Colleges.

• 42 credit hours

USC has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) since March 6, 1949.

• 66 credit hours

Yale is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Do You Want to Earn Your MPH Quickly?

If you want to complete the Online MPH Programs in 1 Year, you may select one of the universities above that offers a program of 36 credit hours or less (non-thesis) and enroll in 8 week online classes taking a minimum of 2 courses per term. At this pace, you might complete the entire MPH online in one year.

The post 30 Best One Year MPH Programs Online [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

Being trained to respond to emergencies can also help you enter a career field with growing job opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that emergency management positions are projected to experience a growth of 6% over the next decade.

The average salary for emergency management degree holders is between $42,230 and $142,870, depending on your industry (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Types of Accelerated Emergency Management Degree Programs

Emergencies can happen in all varieties of situations. The types of degrees in emergency management are also quite varied. You may choose a focus in administration, homeland security, criminal justice, or natural disasters.

Each of these degrees can help prepare you for a different aspect of crisis response:

• Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice—Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Bachelor’s in Fire and Emergency Management
• Bachelor’s in Homeland Security

In addition to emergency management programs, there are a number of other accelerated online bachelor’s programs in related fields.

Likewise, some schools even offer accelerated programs for an online masters in emergency management if you want to pursue further education after earning your bachelor’s degree.

Accelerated Emergency Management Degree Programs Overview

An accelerated emergency management degree program can help you develop the skills needed to respond quickly and efficiently to local, national, and organizational emergencies.

Emergency management programs are designed to teach the four principles of emergency management: plan, prepare, respond, and recover. They teach how to apply these principles to large-scale natural or man-made disasters, as well as how to work with other agencies and jurisdictions to get the job done.

Your list of classes could potentially include:

• Airport Security
• Contemporary Issues in Tribal Management and Emergency Services
• Disaster Response and Recovery
• Disasters and Vulnerable Populations
• Emergency Management Strategies and Communications: National Incident Management System
• Political and Legal Foundations in Emergency Services
• Police and Society
• Preparedness Planning and Risk Mitigation
• Strategy and Tactics in Fire and Emergency Services
• Terrorism

These are just some of the possible classes you may take in your emergency management program. Programs vary, but preparing students to know what to do in the event of an emergency is the foundation of any emergency management degree program.

Careers with an Accelerated Emergency Management Degree

Where your degree will take you is completely up to you! More and more organizations are seeing the need for emergency management at all levels. You could pursue careers in emergency response and preparation at places like:

• Colleges and schools
• Community food, housing, and relief services
• Hospitals
• Electric power generation, transmission, and distribution companies
• Local and state governments
• Private companies
• Scientific research centers

If there is a possibility of a sector being affected by an emergency, there might be a job for you in that field, and the range of salaries is just as wide as the opportunities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the emergency management field include:

This is not a narrow career path that will trap you in a single sector. The opportunities are as wide as the emergencies that could arise.

The Benefits of Taking Accelerated Online Classes for Your Emergency Management Degree

Many students opt to take online studies because of their flexibility and inconvenience. There can be many benefits to taking an accelerated online emergency management program.

Start Now

You don’t have to wait until September to start your degree. Many North American universities have start dates each month. Once you start your degree, you are on the path to building your career.

The first step may be the hardest to take, but the chance to start at any time can help you take that first step sooner!

Finish Faster

If you sign up for traditional on-campus classes, you’ll likely have to go to class 2-3 times a week for the next 16 weeks to earn 3 credits. Instead, you may take accelerated 8 week online classes. Each class covers the same material as a traditional classroom setting, but you can potentially complete the material much faster.

Study When and Where You Want

Online programs allow you to study wherever you have an internet connection, and many of them have no set times to take your classes.

This means you can take your classes at home. at a coffee shop, on your lunch break at work, or even at 2 a.m. when you can’t sleep. You’re not tied to being in class at a certain time, and you have no commute.

3 Ways to Accelerate Your Emergency Management Degree Even More

I need a degree fast. If this is a recurring thought when searching for a degree program, then you may want to explore the fastest online degrees that might be a good fit for you.

For a traditional bachelor’s degree program, you are looking at 120-182 credits to earn your degree. That’s 4-6 years studying for what you want to do now. Luckily, you can use these 3 tips to potentially shave years off your degree completion plan.

1. Test Out of College Classes (Earn Up to 1 Year)

Instead of attending a class for 16 weeks, you may be able to just take an exam. The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) may allow you to take exams for many of your introductory level classes.

Each exam only costs $89, plus any fee the testing center may require, and consists of 90 multiple choice questions that take 90 minutes to complete. If you know your material and can pass the exam with 50% of the questions right, then you’ll earn the credits, usually 3, needed for that course.

Most universities will allow you to take up to 30 credits by exam using this process. If you take 10 exams and pass, you could potentially earn a full year of college credit.

2. Get College Credit for Your Life and Work Experience (Earn Up to 1 Semester)

Do you have any work experience? Maybe you lived in a foreign country or undertook some kind of training program. You may be eligible for college credit for your experiences.

An emergency management degree is especially suited for awarding college credit for military experience. The US military works alongside the American Council of Education to make sure that your military service is recognized. College credit may be provided based on the training you did in the military.

At most universities, you can complete an Experiential Learning Portfolio for your advisor to review. This process may earn you up to 15 credit hours.

3. Stay Continuously Enrolled with the Max Course Load

Traditionally, most students will earn 30 credits a year by taking 15 credits in the fall and spring semesters.

Most universities will allow you to take 18 credits each semester, though, and you may also be able to take a full semester’s worth of classes in the summer.

If you take 18 credits in the fall, spring, and summer semesters and pass all your courses, you could earn 54 credits in just 12 months. Testing out of classes and working hard for 2 years could potentially result in you having enough credit for a full bachelor’s degree in half the time.

Bonus: Transferring Your Existing College Credits

Did you start college before but didn’t finish? Credits from an accredited university or college may save you from having to take some classes now. If you were able to earn at least a C in the class, then that credit might fill a spot in your current degree.

Even if the class has nothing to do with your emergency management degree, you might be able to use it as an elective!

How to Lower Tuition Costs

Once you know the secret of how to save time when getting your degree, you also know part of the secret of saving money on your degree. Credit by Exam and Credit for Prior Learning are options available in every state and can be applied to many degree programs.

Not having to take some classes can cut down on your expenses in a major way.

You can also look into financial aid to cut costs. Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will allow you to discover the grants and loans you qualify for from the federal government.

You may also be able to find financial aid through:

• State funding
• University scholarships
• Private organization scholarships
• Employer assistance programs

Taking the time to look into financial aid can potentially help you save a lot of money.

Emergency Management Degree Accreditation

Accreditation is a process that your school must go through to prove that its emergency management degree program meets either regional or national standards. There are also forms of programmatic accreditation specific to degree programs.

A couple of good programmatic accreditations to look for in an emergency management program are:

• Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP)
• Council for Accreditation of Emergency Management Education (CAEME)

There are also six regional accreditors that validate colleges and universities as a whole:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

All the work your school goes through to become accredited helps to ensure that your degree will be seen as valid by future employers and grad schools.

What Degree Do You Need for Emergency Management?

There are a few different degrees you may get. Criminal Justice with a concentration in Emergency Management, Fire and Emergency Management, and Homeland Security are some of the most popular options.

How Much Do Emergency Managers Make?

An emergency manager may earn on average $42,230 to $76,250 a year, with the potential to earn as high as $142,870, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How Do I Become an Emergency Management Specialist?

The steps to becoming an emergency management specialist are:

1. Earn your bachelor’s degree in a related field.
2. Accumulate work experience.
3. Apply to be a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) or Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) from the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM).

Some states and communities do not require all of these steps.

Prepare Thyself!

How are you going to respond the next time an emergency happens?

A degree in emergency management can help you pursue a career in which you can make a difference in thousands of peoples’ lives. You may prepare and educate people on how to respond to an emergency, or you may be the one who has a plan and knows how to execute it.

Getting started in this rewarding career does not need to take you 6 years. With the steps we’ve listed, you could potentially earn your degree in 2.5 years and for a fraction of the tuition price tag.

The post Accelerated Emergency Management Degree Online [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

Many of the career options in hospitality management are highly competitive. One of the most competitive is hotel management. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs available in hotel management is projected to grow more slowly than jobs in other fields.

There are two things that can help you succeed in the competitive job market of hotel management: experience and education. Most employers will want you to have experience in hospitality to enter into a management position and will often expect you to work your way up. While experience is key, it may not always be enough in the competitive field of hotel management.

Getting your bachelor’s degree in hospitality management can help you stand out and increase your chances when it comes to promotions and career growth. Hotel management isn’t your only option with this degree, though. With a projected growth of 18% over the next 10 years (Bureau of Labor Statistics), event planning, which includes meetings and conventions, is where the jobs are growing in the field of hospitality management.

Even with the greater job market, though, earning your degree can help you stand out when it comes to pursuing the most desirable positions.

Types of Accelerated Hospitality Management Degree Programs

The type of hospitality management degree you should pursue depends on which industry you want to work in: tourism, event planning, food services, or lodging.

Of the potentially high paying business degrees, a Bachelor of Business Administration is one of the most popular, which can often be obtained with a concentration in hospitality management. There are also Bachelor of Science and some Bachelor of Arts programs that offer concentrations in hospitality management.

Accelerated hospitality management degree programs can be found for the following degree types:

• Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Hospitality Management
• Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Hospitality Management
• Bachelor of Science in Event Management
• Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management
• Bachelor of Science in Restaurant and Foodservice Management

To decide which degree to earn, you can check prospective schools, compare the classes you’ll be required to take, and see which program best fits the career you want to pursue. In addition to bachelors degrees, a growing number of universities offer either on-campus or online masters in hospitality management degree programs.

Accelerated Hospitality Management Degree Programs Overview

The classes offered in a hospitality management degree online program or on-campus program can help you develop the practical knowledge needed to best serve your customers.

Classes vary from program to program, but many have similar options. Some possible options are:

• Club Operations and Management
• Food Management: Safety and Nutrition
• The Foodservice Distribution Channel
• Hospitality Beverages
• Hospitality Business Ownership
• Hospitality Marketing
• Introduction to Wine
• Managing Quality in Hospitality Businesses
• Meeting and Event Planning and Management
• Quantity Food Production Systems

The credits needed to earn a degree in hospitality can range from 120 to 180. Your class choices will depend on what area of hospitality you want to work in.

Careers with an Accelerated Hospitality Management Degree

A career in hospitality is often centered on helping people enjoy themselves when they are out, whether that is in food, accommodation, drinks, tourism, traveling, attractions, or customer service.

You may work at a restaurant, hotel, theme park, resort club, cruise line, or casino. You might even work with a professional sports team or music group planning and arranging for transportation, meals, and entertainment as they travel.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the hospitality field include:

Within each career path, there is a wide range of opportunities. If you are working for a big-name, high-level organization, you may make a lot more money, and there may be more room for advancement. Your location may also play a significant role in determining your salary.

Why Enroll in an Accelerated Online Hospitality Management Degree Program?

The short answer is that accelerated online programs are often more flexible and faster. Here’s why.

1. Start when you want. Most online universities have start dates every month, which means no waiting for next semester!
2. Study when and where you want. You may get to set your own schedule and won’t have to commute to campus.
3. Finish when you want. If you don’t want to spend more time in school than you have to, you can put your nose to the grindstone and get it done!

An accelerated online class takes on average 8 weeks to complete instead of the traditional 16 weeks in a college semester. Plus, there are ways you might be able to finish even faster.

How to Finish Your Hospitality Management Degree as Quickly as Possible

Even if you don’t want to fast-track your degree by taking accelerated classes, you may still use these strategies to shave time off your studies.

1. Test Out of College Classes

Through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), you can pay $89, plus any test center fees, to take exams in most core classes.

Each exam is only 90 multiple choice questions, and if you can pass the exam with at least 50% correct, you’ll earn the college credits (usually 3) for that course. Grabbing a study guide and learning the material on your own may mean one less class you have to attend.

You may gain up to 30 credits by passing these exams. At many schools, that’s a full year of college! While these CLEP exams are accepted at many schools, it is important to check with your school to see what they will accept.

2. Get College Credit for Your Life and Work Experience

Many colleges will also give credit for work experience. Typically, you can do this by submitting a portfolio that documents your experience and demonstrates how your experience matches the objectives of the course you want credit for. At many universities, you can earn up to 15 credits from work experience.

3. Stay Continuously Enrolled with the Max Course Load

After taking advantage of the previous two strategies, you could potentially have a nice stack of around 45 credits without attending a single class. Eventually, you do have to start your coursework, though. Once you do, you may plan to work harder than usual in order to be done faster than usual.

Here are your choices:

• Enroll in an average of 15 credits for both the fall and spring semesters. Each year, you can earn 30 credits as long as you pass all of your classes.
• Enroll in the MAX number of credits your school allows, which is typically 18 credits, and take classes in the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Each year, you can earn 54 credits as long as you pass all of your classes.

Choosing the second choice could potentially allow you to complete your degree in half the time it usually takes. The fastest way to complete your degree is to earn as many credits as possible in the shortest amount of time.

4. Bonus: Transferring Your Existing College Credits

If you have previously attended a college class and earned at least a C in the class, you may be able to use that for credit toward your degree. Even if the class doesn’t specifically fill a class requirement for your degree, there may be room to use that credit as an elective. That could save you time and money!

How to Your Lower Tuition Costs

While you may be able to save a lot of money by utilizing Credit by Exam and Credit for Prior Learning, you’ll still have to pay for the rest of your classes. This money may not have to come out of your pocket, though.

You may be able to save yourself even more money by taking advantage of all the financial aid possibilities available to you. The first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It will show you how much money you qualify for in grants and loans.

Afterward, you may look into scholarships from universities or private organizations, and if you’re already working, you can see if your company has any programs to help employees continue their education.

Hospitality Management Degree Accreditation

Accreditation means that your school’s program has been evaluated by a third party and found to be acceptable. It ensures that the classes, curriculum, faculty, and research done by your school are up-to-date and valuable.

The accreditation you want to look for is regional accreditation, which will give your degree validity and help to ensure it will be recognized by future employers and schools.

Regional accreditation is given by the following boards:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

If your school has been accredited by any one of these accreditors, it means it has met educational standards and will be recognized by others.

What Is a Hospitality Management Major?

In most cases, a hospitality management major is a business degree program specializing in the hospitality industry, such as hotels and lodging, restaurants, tourism, transportation services, and event planning. You’ll often take general business classes as well as classes that pertain to your specific area of interest.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Hospitality Management?

You may work in the hotel or resort industry, in food or beverage service, event planning, or tourism. At many places people go and need a little pampering, hospitality managers are there to ensure that they have a great time.

What Is the Hospitality Management Salary?

The average salary for a hospitality management graduate ranges from $34,000 to $162,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics), depending on experience, job title, and location. There can be many opportunities to use the skills you learn in a hospitality management program in a variety of industries.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Hospitality Management Degree?

That depends on the program you enroll in. The average hospitality management program takes 4 years to complete. If you can go to school full-time, taking accelerated classes may help you finish in half the time.

You may also be able to test out of classes and submit a Credit for Prior Learning portfolio to help you finish even faster. If you can do all of these things, you could potentially complete your degree in just 18 months.

List of Schools Offering Accelerated Hospitality Management Degree Programs Online

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited, offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format, and have accelerated classes that are 8 weeks or less in duration.

Bellevue University offers an online Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management degree program. Students are required to finish 127 credits to graduate. Those who have already completed an associate’s degree may transfer at least 60 qualifying credits into the program. With the Accelerated Cohort Program, students register for courses at the beginning of the program and complete their classes one by one.

Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California State University—East Bay offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism. To graduate, students must achieve 120 credits. Students can choose one of three concentrations: Event Planning and Management, Food and Beverage, or Lodging, Resort, and Club Management. Alternatively, students may work with an advisor to take electives that emphasize personal goals.

Cal State East Bay is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Charleston Southern University offers both a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. To graduate, students must complete 125 credit hours from their major, the liberal arts core, and interdisciplinary electives. Courses last for 7 weeks and can be completed completely online.

Charleston Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Coastal Carolina University offers an online Bachelor’s in Hospitality, Resort, and Tourism Management. The program is designed for those interested in working at resort destination areas. Students must achieve 127 credits to graduate, including 7 general credits. The program also offers three concentrations: Event Planning, Sustainable Resort Development, and Tourism Sales.

Coastal Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

East Carolina University’s College of Business offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. Students may choose to take a concentration in Convention and Special Events Management, Food and Beverage Management, or Lodging Management. Students are required to complete 87 semester hours related to the major, an externship, and an internship to graduate.

East Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The East Coast Polytechnic Institute offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Hospitality Management. The program is an accelerated program that is held year-round to aid in helping students graduate in 2.5 years. Students must finish 105 credits to earn their degree. Terms last for 5 weeks.

ECPI University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Eastern New Mexico University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality Management. Students must complete a minimum of 120 credits to graduate, with 42 credit hours in upper-level courses. Undergraduate students also have access to graduate assistants who can assist them.

Eastern New Mexico University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management degree program. Students are required to complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Students who have already completed 2 years of college with a GPA of at least 2.25 may be able to transfer to the upper-division program.

Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Fort Hays State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management. To graduate, students are required to complete 120 credit hours. Alongside the credits required for the major, at least 12 hours must be dedicated to one of the FHSU general education programs of Foundation Studies or Liberal Arts.

FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Granite State College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a concentration in Hotel, Restaurant, and Travel. At least 120 credits must be completed to graduate, with 28 credits reserved for open electives. Students who have already completed an associate’s degree at a community college may apply to transfer credits towards this degree.

Granite State College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Johnson & Wales University Online offers a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. The program can be completed in 4 years with courses that last either 8 or 16 weeks. To apply, students must have completed at least 2 full years of full-time work from the day they graduated high school.

JWU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Madonna University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. The program is designed to also have students graduate with a minor in Business Administration, with 30 semester hours dedicated towards the major. Students with a degree in the culinary or hospitality field may be able to transfer credits to the program.

Madonna University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Missouri State University offers two different degree options from their Department of Hospitality Leadership: the Bachelor of Science and the Bachelor of Applied Science. The Bachelor of Applied Science is designed for students who have already achieved an on-campus or an online associates degree in hospitality management or culinary arts. Students are also expected to complete an internship to graduate.

Missouri State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Norfolk State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management. Students must complete 121 hours of undergraduate work to graduate. Students may choose to transfer credits, but at least half of the business credits completed must be obtained from Norfolk State University.

Norfolk State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

North Carolina Central University offers an online Bachelor’s in Science degree in Hospitality and Tourism Administration. The program can typically be completed in 4 years and requires the completion of at least 128 semester hours. To graduate, students must meet general education, business, and elective requirements while achieving a minimum GPA of 2.0.

North Carolina Central University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Northeastern State University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality and Tourism Management. The program is divided into three different specialties: Meeting and Convention Management, Tourist Destination Development, and Gaming Operations and Procedures. Students may be able to transfer credits from other accredited colleges, universities, or community colleges.

Northeastern State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Northern Arizona University offers an online Bachelor’s in Hospitality Leadership. To graduate, students must complete at least 120 credits, with at least 30 credits coming from upper-division courses and 30 credits taken through Northern Arizona University. The online programs have two paths: Traditional, which has students work on a fixed schedule, or Competency-Based, which offers more flexibility.

Northern Arizona University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Oregon State University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Hospitality Management. The program can typically be completed in 4 years and requires 180 credits to qualify for graduation, with 24 credits required for the specialization. Students may transfer credits, but at least 45 credits must be completed through Oregon State.

Oregon State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Southern Illinois University offers a Bachelor’s in Hospitality, Tourism, and Event Management program that can be completed online. Students may also choose to have a focus in either Food Service Management or Hotel Management by taking an additional 5 courses. To graduate, students must complete at least 120 credits. Some courses require students to participate in field trips.

SIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Southern Oregon University offers an online Business Degree Completion program. The program is designed for students who have a 2 year trade degree. To graduate, students must have 180 credits with 60 credits from upper-division courses. At least 15 credits must be from Southern Oregon University.

Southern Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Troy University offers an online Bachelor’s in Hospitality, Sport, and Tourism Management with a Hospitality concentration. Students must acquire 120 credit hours to graduate. The program also allows for a minor to be completed, including Event Management, Tourism Management, or a minor from a different department.

Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Alabama offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. Students must achieve 120 credit hours to graduate. Online students have 50 required hours, including an internship. The program offers separate concentrations in Sport and Entertainment Event Management, Meeting and Event, Hotel/Lodging, and Food and Beverage Management.

The University of Alabama is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Central Florida offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. Students must finish 120 credit hours to graduate. To be eligible to apply for the program, students need to have 2 years of experience related to the industry. Students may also choose to focus on specialized coursework for theme park and attraction management, club management, or lodging management.

The University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The Isenberg School of Management from the University of Massachusetts offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Students must complete 120 credits to graduate, with a minimum of 45 credits taken from the University of Massachusetts—Amherst. The program also requires 14 courses to be completed for the degree and 12 courses to be completed for general education.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The University of South Carolina—Beaufort offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management. Students must complete 45 to 60 credits before being able to apply for the program. To graduate, students must achieve 120 semester hours and complete 57 major requirements. Students may choose to transfer to the USC Beaufort’s campus at any point during their degree.

The University of South Carolina Beaufort is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of the Southwest offers a Bachelor’s of Business Administration with an emphasis in Hospitality Management. Students must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours, with 40 hours coming from advanced coursework, and have a GPA of at least 2.0 to graduate. The program can be completed online.

The University of the Southwest is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of Utah offers an online Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Tourism & Hospitality Management. To graduate, students must acquire 133 credit hours, with 42 credit hours related to the major, 15 elective credit hours, and an internship. Students may also choose to obtain a Hospitality Operations Certificate as part of the program.

The University of Utah is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The University of Wisconsin—Stout offers an online Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management. The program offers year-round courses and requires 120 credits, with 80 major-related credits, and a GPA of 2.75 to graduate. The school also offers co-ops and internships.

University of Wisconsin-Stout is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Students with a passion for creativity, hospitality, and business may find an excellent next step in the Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management online program at Utah Valley University. Students can customize their education by selecting from a variety of creative and business-focused specialties. Options are Operations, Revenue Management, Sales, Event Planning, and Culinary Arts.

Utah Valley University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Washington State University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Business Management. To graduate, students must acquire a minimum of 120 semester credits, with 40 of the credits from the 300 to 400 levels. Courses last for 7 weeks, allowing for two sets of courses to be completed in a semester.

Washington State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Are You Feeling Hospitable?

Do you love the idea of being the one who helps to provide fun and enjoyment to others? Maybe you have already been working in hospitality and know this is where you want to grow in your career. Earning your hospitality management degree may be the next step.

You can start by narrowing down and applying to your choice of schools. Once you’re accepted, you can work on testing out of as many classes and earning as much credit for prior learning as you can.

If you take your remaining classes as quickly as possible through accelerated courses, you could potentially be out of school and in the workforce in half the time as other students.

The post 30 Best Accelerated Hospitality Management Degree Programs Online [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

Top Accelerated Bachelors Degrees Online

Select the accelerated bachelor’s degree that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Communications
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Finance
• Healthcare Administration
• History
• Information Technology
• Liberal Arts
• Management
• Marketing
• Nursing
• Psychology

Accelerated online bachelor degree programs are available at a number of universities.

Bachelors Degree in Accounting

If you are looking into an accelerated accounting bachelor’s degree, then you may be looking forward to a higher than average salary and field growth.

With a bachelor’s in accounting, you may work as a forensic accountant, financial analyst, environmental accountant, personal financial advisor, or even anti-money laundering officer.

As part of the Accounting bachelor’s curriculum, you will likely earn credits in business and statistics, along with economics courses. If you are organized and good with numbers, then accounting may be the right type of career for you.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration

Have you ever thought about running a business? Here’s your chance to see how it all works.

With a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, you may get credits in classes like accounting, common business software applications, sales, and basic management. You may also finish college with good communication and organizational leadership skills.

If you are interested in leading any kind of business to higher levels, as you set and meet the goals, then an accelerated degree in Business Administration may be what you‘re looking for.

Bachelors Degree in Communications

If you are an entrepreneurial student, an accelerated bachelor’s degree in communication may open a lot of doors. This bachelor’s degree is popular because it includes journalism, broadcast journalism, and even public relations, advertising, film or photography.

As you can see, a communications degree may cover a lot of different courses, so you’ll likely be able to find a path that sparks your interest with this bachelor’s degree. After graduating, you may work on the radio or write for film and television. You may become a public relations officer for a company or write speeches for a politician.

If you enjoy working with people, communicate with others, and have a creative flair, a bachelor’s degree in communications might be the right choice for you.

Bachelors Degree in Computer Science

Computer Science focuses on the study of computers and software systems. A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science focuses on programming languages, artificial intelligence, database systems, networks, and software engineering.

This accelerated degree program can be ideal for students who first and foremost love working with computers. It also requires a lot of problem-solving, so students must be adept in logical thinking.

With an online degree in Computer Science, you may pursue a myriad of internationally viable, lucrative careers as programmers, software engineers, mobile app developers, data analysts, game designers, database administrators, IT consultants, VFX artists, website developers, or AI researchers.

Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice focuses on the study of the criminal justice system. A bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice is a distinct degree from Criminology, though they do share some parallels in terms of study and employment prospects.

A bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice often includes college credits in juvenile law, criminal law, criminal procedure, corrections, the U.S. court systems, and policing.

Naturally, this bachelor’s degree program is ideal for students who have a strong sense of justice or those who want to pursue careers enforcing the law through the established legal and justice systems.

With a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, you may work as a police officer, probation officer, correctional officer, private detective, fish and game warden, security consultant, state trooper, crime scene investigator, fraud investigator, FBI agent, CIA agent, and more.

Bachelors Degree in Education

An accelerated bachelors degree in Education is more than developing lesson plans. You may learn how to spread your knowledge and teach various types of students that have different learning styles.

After finishing your bachelor’s degree in Education, you may be able to meet your students’ needs and manage a variety of challenging situations that might arise in the classroom. You might get a chance to learn how to teach, inspire, and educate other people.

In addition to core education courses, your bachelor’s level curriculum may also include psychology, best teaching practices, and communication.

If you like sharing your knowledge, but don’t know the right way to do it, an accelerated bachelors degree in Education or Teaching could fit the bill perfectly.

Bachelors Degree in Finance

Finance focuses on the study of finance and its related topics. One of the main differences between a bachelor’s degree in Finance and bachelor’s degree in Accounting is that Finance has a wider focus.

A Finance degree can be ideal for students who love working with money and figures and who desire lucrative careers in business, banking, trading, and the corporate world at large.

Your bachelor’s degree in Finance might include earning credits in courses such as commercial banking, financial accounting, economics, asset management, financial trading, private equity, corporate finance, and risk assessment.

Accelerated bachelor degree programs in finance can help you pursue financially rewarding careers as investment bankers, hedge fund managers, private equity analysts, sales executives and managers, traders, auditors, actuaries, financial analysts, financial planners, and even IRS agents.

Bachelors Degree in Healthcare Administration

Want to work in healthcare, but aren’t sure which bachelor’s degree is the right fit? Healthcare Administration may be a viable option to consider.

There are a lot of people who work behind the doctors and nurses that you see in the hospital. If you‘re interested in healthcare but can‘t stand the sight of blood, consider earning an accelerated online degree in Healthcare Administration.

Like in any other business, healthcare facilities need managers to maintain their organizations. After finishing this bachelor’s degree, you may work in small clinics or major medical centers.

In an accelerated bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration, you will likely be introduced to Healthcare Delivery Systems, Healthcare Professionals Ethics, and Medical Terminology.

Bachelors Degree in History

After finishing an accelerated bachelors degree online in History, you may investigate the past while having access to primary resources.

Many History majors become historians and either write or teach others about a certain period. However, you may use this accelerated bachelor’s degree to work in other career paths, such as law.

Accelerated bachelor degrees in history might help you gain analytical, communication, problem-solving, and research skills through your accelerated courses. You may work in museums and other archive collections helping preserve historical documents or teach others about the past.

Bachelors Degree in Information Technology

Information Technology focuses on the study of storage and manipulation of data or information with the use of computer systems and databases. An accelerated bachelors degree in Information Technology can be ideal for students who love working with computers to organize and process data.

A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology will generally cover introductory programming, operating systems, network administration, IT management, database management, and related technology courses for credit.

Information Technology degree holders may pursue lucrative careers as IT consultants, corporate IT tech support officers, cyber security officers or analysts, data analysts and scientists, database administrators, computer network architects, IT project managers, web developers, software developers, or computer programmers.

Bachelors Degree in Liberal Arts

Are you searching for an interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree program?

Then a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts might be a good choice. Typical coursework include topics such as English, Philosophy, Psychology, Political Science, and History.

Other accelerated degree programs may include Economics, Linguistics, Religious Studies, Sociology, or even Theater Arts. Liberal Arts students are often intellectuals who have a strong affinity for the arts as well as human interaction. They may prefer working with big concepts rather than tangible things.

With a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts, you may enjoy careers in the private sector, government. and non-government organizations, religious sectors, and even higher education.

Accelerated bachelor’s degrees in the Liberal Arts can help prepare you for careers like professional writer, author, editor, becoming an educator at the high school or college level, being a public relations specialist, a fundraiser, a minister, a politician, a lobbyist, a diplomat, a translator, or even a news broadcaster.

Bachelors Degree in Management

A bachelor’s degree in Management, or Business Management, focuses on the study of business with a further focus on the management of resources, business operations, information, and people.

As an accelerated bachelor’s degree in Management student, you may learn about accounting, law and ethics, marketing, human resource management, project management, financial management, and data management. Management can be ideal for students who love business or prefer working in the corporate world.

Earning college credits with Accelerated bachelor’s degrees in Management can help prepare you for high-paying jobs as stock brokers, project managers, investment bankers, supply chain managers, sales executives, marketing executives, accountants, business advisers, actuaries, operations executives, financial analysts, or even entrepreneurs.

Bachelors Degree in Marketing

Marketing focuses on the study of business marketing and all related topics.

An accelerated degree in Marketing can be ideal for students who are confident and articulate, those who love the corporate world or entrepreneurship, and those who want to influence the buying behavior of people.

A bachelor’s degree in Marketing may include courses like the Principles of Marketing, Marketing Research, Marketing Strategy and Management, Product Management, Retail and Sales Marketing and Management, Logistics, Macroeconomics, Public Relations, Managerial Communications, Business Communications, Theories on Corporations and Finance.

College credits earned through an accelerated bachelor’s degree online in Marketing can help prepare you for careers as brand or product managers, event planners, corporate marketing executives, demand generation executives, content marketing managers, creative directors, media buyers, business advisers, advertising account managers, promotions managers, or even brick and mortar or online entrepreneurs.

Accelerated Nursing Degrees

Want to get your bachelor’s degree in Nursing online in less time?

If you already hold your RN license, there are a number of schools offering accelerated RN to BSN programs online. With these types of accelerated programs, you may be able to focus your studies and get the college credits you need fast.

An RN to BSN program may take you from a Registered Nurse to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in less time than it would take you in a traditional campus setting. So, if you want to earn your nursing degree fast, this might be an option to consider.

Bachelors Degree in Psychology

Are you intrigued by human behavior and want to find out what makes people tick? Do you want to help others work through their difficult situations? If so, then an accelerated bachelor’s degree in Psychology might be a great fit for you.

As a Psychology major, you may learn about different factors that can affect a human’s mental health. With your accelerated courses, you will likely dive deep into the world of psychological disorders and learn about common mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

Credits earned through accelerated bachelor degrees in Psychology can help prepare you for a career as a social worker, professor, psychologist, or counselor, but these occupations generally require at least a master’s degree.

How to Accelerate Your Bachelor’s Degree Online

Here’s how to get your accelerated bachelor’s degree online as quickly as possible.

1. Select one major, no minor. Adding a minor only adds unnecessary additional requirements to your accelerated degree.
2. Get degree credit for your military training. If you served, get the college credits you deserve for your service fast!
3. Take accelerated courses online. 8 week accelerated courses are faster than 16 week courses. Enough said!
4. Stay continuously enrolled with the max course load. To finish fast, enroll with a full-time course load every semester.
5. Get credit for your life experience. Use your university’s credit for prior learning program to get possible college credit for your experience.
6. Take advantage of External Learning Opportunities. These accelerated degrees allow you to get more credits if your college participates.
7. Earn Degree Credit by Exam. Some colleges let you test out of one year of college or more with CLEP & DSST exams.

Following these accelerated bachelor’s degree strategies might help you finish a 4-year degree fast.

Accreditation for Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees

Before you apply to any accelerated degree program, always research and confirm accreditation. Accreditation is probably the most important consideration for your future career potential when selecting a program.

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• New England Commission of Higher Education
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• WASC Senior College and University Commission

Most employers will make sure that the degree you received through your accelerated bachelor degree from is a recognized, accredited program. Checking accreditation is a fast process and worth the effort!

Is Financial Aid Available?

Just because you pursue your accelerated bachelor degree online doesn’t mean you aren’t eligible for financial aid and support. Many online accelerated bachelor’s degree programs offer financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, or federal funding through loans. Filling out the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) is a relatively fast process, so be sure to start there.

The cost, even though it’s often less than attending a college in person, shouldn’t deter you from pursuing your dream of completing a bachelor’s degree at an accelerated pace.

What is an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree?

An accelerated bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree program structured so that it can be completed at a faster pace compared to a conventional bachelor’s program, enabling you to obtain your bachelor’s degree in three years (or less).

A fast-track bachelor’s program is a unique educational pathway that:

• Expedites the process of getting a bachelor’s degree
• Allows you to complete your degree requirements in less time
• Provides a comprehensive and condensed curriculum, giving you the opportunity to graduate more quickly

While the structure and requirements may vary across institutions, the primary objective remains to offer a fast-tracked route for motivated and dedicated individuals seeking to enter the workforce or pursue further studies at an advanced level in a shorter time frame.

Accelerated bachelor’s degrees have gained popularity due to their potential to save both time and money for students. These programs are well-suited for individuals who are highly self-motivated, academically focused, and have a clear career goal in mind. They often attract working professionals, career changers, and ambitious students eager to fast-track their academic journey. To accommodate the accelerated pace, these programs may require students to take on a heavier course load, attend summer sessions, or offer more intensive and focused coursework. While the condensed nature of these programs demands dedication and commitment from students, they can prove to be a rewarding option for those looking to enter the job market sooner or explore advanced academic opportunities swiftly.

Can I Finish My Bachelor’s Degree Online?

Yes, you can finish your degree online! Many universities and colleges now offer a wide range of online degree programs, providing flexible and convenient options for prospective students.

With online degree programs, you have the freedom to study from anywhere, allowing you to balance your studies with work, family, or other commitments. These programs typically offer a variety of course formats, including video lectures, interactive discussions, and virtual classrooms, enabling you to engage with your coursework and professors effectively.

Additionally, online degrees often have the same curriculum and requirements as their on-campus counterparts, ensuring that you receive a high-quality education. As you consider pursuing your degree online, it’s essential to research accredited institutions and programs to ensure you are making a well-informed choice. Online education can be a rewarding and flexible way to achieve your academic goals and advance your career.

Can You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in One Year Online?

While it is possible to complete a bachelor’s degree online, earning a bachelor’s degree in one year is highly challenging and not typical for most degree programs. A standard bachelor’s degree usually requires around four years of full-time study. However, there are various methods and strategies that can expedite the time to completion.

One way to accelerate the degree process is by transferring credits from prior college coursework or completing college-level exams like CLEP or DSST to gain credit for previous knowledge. Some institutions offer accelerated bachelor degree programs that condense coursework or provide intensive, year-round scheduling to speed up graduation. Additionally, some online universities offer competency-based programs, allowing students to progress at their own pace based on demonstrated proficiency, potentially reducing the time to completion.

However, completing a bachelor’s degree in one year requires a significant commitment of time and effort. It may not be feasible for all students due to the rigorous course load and other responsibilities. It’s essential for prospective students to carefully research and assess their own capabilities and circumstances before embarking on such an accelerated path.

While obtaining a bachelor’s degree in one year is rare, exploring these alternative methods and strategies can still lead to faster completion times and provide an efficient and flexible way to achieve academic and career goals through online education.

Best Accelerated Bachelors Degree Online Rankings

We’ve included accredited universities offering accelerated courses leading to bachelors degrees online.

Rankings Methodology: Only accredited universities offering accelerated courses and online bachelor degrees were considered for inclusion.

Albertus Magnus, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is a private institution started by the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary. The school offers accredited bachelors degrees online.

Bachelor’s degrees offer these courses

• 8-week accelerated courses

Albertus Magnus College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

AIU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees with open admissions.

The school has Atlanta and Houston campuses, but its main campus has been online since 2001, with over 15,000 students all over the world.

Bachelor Degree Courses Offered

• 5-week accelerated courses

AIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

ASU is public research institution spread across five campuses in the Phoenix area with four other centers around the state. It enrolls nearly 90,000 students per year, with 35-40,000 of them taking courses online.

With over 17 colleges, you can take your pick of over 400 bachelor degrees or more than 350 graduate programs.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Courses Offered

• 7.5-week accelerated courses

Arizona State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Founded in 1878, Brenau is a private institution with more than 3,500 students. It offers a wide selection of degrees and education specialist graduate degrees with a strong emphasis on the broad-based liberal arts education.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online Courses Offered

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

Brenau is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Cameron was founded in Lawton, Oklahoma in 1908 and offers more than 50 degrees and programs that emphasize the liberal arts, science, and technology.

Students may participate in independent study, cooperative education, pre-professional studies, teacher certification, and the Army ROTC program.

Accelerated Bachelors Degree Classes Offered

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

Cameron is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

CTC is a community college founded in 1965. It has gathered over 50 years of experience working with military personnel, understanding their unique needs and challenges.

At the main campus in Killeen, near Fort Hood, CTC has become a community college catering to the military. This institution provides an affordable, high-quality education with more than 40 associate degrees available through on-site and online courses held at a few military bases in Europe and across the US.

Accelerated Bachelor Degree Courses

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

Central Texas College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Founded in 1973, this institution is a public, online liberal arts college in New Britain, Connecticut. It has approved over 15,000 degrees and offers a variety of academic support services, including program planning, testing, and evaluation.

Unlike other institutions, it limits their credit-residency requirement to six credits, allowing students like military, civilian federal and state employees, and working adults to reach their goals.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online Classes

• Accelerated courses (5 weeks)

Charter Oak State College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

College of DuPage is a public community college, the second-largest provider of undergraduate education in Illinois, with a wide 28,000 diverse student body. It has a vast main campus in Glen Ellyn, Illinois and other facilities in Addison, Carol Stream, Naperville, and Westmont.

Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degrees Courses Offered

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

College of DuPage is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The College of Southern Nevada, located in Clark County, is a public community college since 1971. With more than 2,500 teaching and non-teaching staff, it’s the largest public college in the state, with three main campuses in the Las Vegas Valley.

Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degrees classes offered

• Accelerated courses (4 weeks)

College of Southern Nevada is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Founded in 1870, Colorado State University is a public institution with a 583-acre main campus in Central Fort Collins. It also has a 1,400-acre campus in Foothills, a 1,500-acre campus for agricultural studies, and a 1,100-acre campus in Pingree Park.

The university offers accredited bachelor’s degrees online.

Accelerated Bachelor’s degrees courses offered

• 8-week accelerated courses

Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Technical University was founded in 1965 and offers online bachelor’s degrees and postgraduate degrees, primarily in technology and business management.

A large percentage (about 92%) of CSU students are taking their courses fully online. Its main campus is located in Colorado Springs, and two other campuses are in Denver and Aurora.

The school is recognized as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency.

Accelerated Bachelors degree online courses offered

• 5.5-week accelerated courses

Colorado Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia College has been committed to helping students improve their lives through higher education since 1851. It is a private non-profit college that takes pride in excellent bachelor’s degree programs, highly trained faculty and staff, and small class size.

Columbia College believes that everybody deserves access to high-quality, affordable education and that learning should be individualized, flexible, and innovative.

Accelerated Bachelors degree online courses offered

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

Columbia College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Founded in 1866, Davenport University is a private, not-for-profit institution with five campuses across Michigan. They also offer online degree courses for those who are seeking more flexible timetables to fit their schedules.

Online learners will get the same quality of education, support, and personal attention as an on-campus student would. Davenport University is also an expert in adult education.

Accelerated bachelors degree online courses offered

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

Davenport is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Founded in 1899, Elizabethtown maintains 19 academic departments, offering 53 bachelor’s degrees and 90+ minors and concentrations, with a core curriculum emphasizing the arts, humanities, and sciences.

Accelerated online bachelor’s degree courses offered

• 5-week accelerated courses

Elizabethtown College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Founded in 1971 by the New York State Board of Regents as an external degree program, Excelsior College is now a private college in Albany, NY.

Rendering honor to its name, Excelsior or “ever upwards” in Latin, the institution strives for excellence, and it’s well known for its flexible, non-resident degrees and bachelor’s degree programs.

It assists mostly non-traditional, adult working students through its online programs.

Bachelor degree courses

• Accelerated courses (Eight weeks)

Excelsior College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Fisher College in Boston, Massachusetts is a private college with satellite locations in North Attleboro, Brockton, and New Bedford. Since its founding in 1903, it’s dedicated to giving students a diverse group of opportunities for creative expression and self-actualization.

Its acceptance rate of 70.2% with year-round rolling admissions makes it easy to begin a bachelor degree program under any circumstances.

• 8-week accelerated courses

Fisher College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Concord, New Hampshire, this organization is a public college that provides both online degrees and in-person courses.

Granite State College is one of the four institutions of the University System of New Hampshire, and it maintains campuses in Claremont, Conway, Lebanon, Nashua, Manchester, Portsmouth and Rochester.

• 6-week accelerated courses

Granite State College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Since its founding in 1930, Indiana Tech has been a private institution in Fort Wayne, Indiana offering highly affordable and high-quality career-oriented bachelor degree programs. It’s structured into five colleges and 13 locations.

• 5 weeks and 8 weeks

Indiana Institute 0f Technology is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

IWU is the largest private Christian university in Indiana with nearly 14,000 students enrolled. Headquartered in Marion, it has more than 8,000 adult students throughout the world, both online or onsite, within its 15 education centers in Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio.

Learners represent more than 80 Christian denominations and 10 foreign countries.

• Accelerated courses (8 weeks)

Indiana Wesleyan is accredited as a whole by the Higher Learning Commission.

This institution is a private non-profit university. It’s based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and has many locations throughout the state. The organization provides educational degrees at the bachelor’s, graduate, and doctorate levels, both through traditional and online campuses.

• 4-week accelerated courses

Keiser is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

LETU is a private, interdenominational Christian school with graduate and bachelor’s degrees specially designed for makers, doers, creators, and those who learn by doing.

It’s located in Longview, Dallas, and Houston, Texas. Founded in 1946 and intended for returning World War II veterans, it has become a worldwide education center with nearly 3,000 annual enrollment.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

LeTourneau is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Since its founding in 1962, Lynn has been a private institution in Boca Raton, Florida offering numerous ways to learn and succeed in nearly 100 areas of study. The annual 2,000 enrolled students are dispersed through six colleges and a vast curriculum.

Lynn’s core curriculum, the Dialogues of Learning, is widely recognized as one of the best methods for comprehensive education through complete and carefully designed bachelor’s degrees.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

Lynn is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions headquartered in San Diego, California that is dedicated to providing flexible, quality education for busy adults.

NU offers accredited online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that can be attended online or at one of its on-campus locations in California. It has over 30,000 students enrolled and more than 220,000 alumni from around the world.

• 8 week accelerated courses

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

This is a small liberal arts institution located in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. It offers bachelors degrees in 29 major and 30 minor areas of study along with a wide selection of clubs, organizations, and intramural activities to keep students actively involved on campus.

Facilities consist of a large campus with nine residence halls, eight townhouses, nine academic buildings, performing arts, outdoor athletic facilities such as courts and fields with different sports offered, and top security services.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

North Carolina Wesleyan College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Park University is a private university with its main campus located in Parkville, Missouri and was first established in 1875.

Since its founding, Park has helped its students break barriers to education.

Their core values are academic excellence, inclusivity, and social responsibility. With small and interactive courses, professors not only know their students by name but personally prepare and support them for successful careers.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

Park is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Peirce College is a private college located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that focuses on adult learners. It was created in 1865 by Thomas May Peirce to provide Civil War veterans a business-focused education.

Currently, it has online bachelors degrees in many areas, specialized in accelerated education through scheduled special hours, online or while at work.

• 3 weeks or 8 weeks degree courses

Peirce is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Since its founding in 1890, this private university in Waterbury, Connecticut has gathered over 129 years of academic excellence.

Entirely online or hybrid on-site and online bachelors degrees are available for students according to their needs. It also offers an extensive range of services, including academic advising and tutoring, financial aid advisors, and career services support.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

Post University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Regent University is an interdenominational Christian college that offers accredited online bachelor’s degree programs, as well as graduate degrees. They were founded by Pat Robertson in 1977 as a place to nurture a new generation of multidisciplinary Christian leaders.

Their suburban campus is located in the peaceful Virginia Beach, Virginia – close to where Pat Robertson himself began his career. They have 8,630 students, who are heavily encouraged to participate in charity and community outreach activities.

• 8-week accelerated courses

Regent is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1877, this award-winning faculty is currently divided into five colleges designed to strengthen graduates’ skills and perspectives needed to achieve their goals and passions.

A number of bachelors degrees are available online.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

Regis is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is the oldest Catholic university and one of the leading academic institutions in Florida. The Saint Leo Community adheres to a culture of service and volunteerism in the spirit of its core values: excellence, community, respect, personal development, responsible stewardship, and integrity.

The university’s mission is to live the rich Catholic values of individual and collective excellence. It maintains its identity as a living-learning-serving community that is open to everyone from all faiths and backgrounds. A number of online bachelors degrees are offered.

• 8-week accelerated courses

Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

SNHU is a private university founded in 1932, located between Manchester and Hooksett, New Hampshire. The faculty is filled with academic experience, and they offer high-quality accelerated programs, making it possible for students to earn a bachelor’s degree in business in only three years.

Southern New Hampshire University has many student organizations on campus, including radio, newspaper, and online journals for students and alumni. It has honor societies and Greek life as the campus society structure.

• 8-week accelerated classes

Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Thomas Edison State University is a public university in Trenton, New Jersey founded in 1911. It’s a mostly online institution that provides lifelong learning for adult learners interested in liberal arts and humanities, natural sciences and social sciences, and relevant career-focused degree programs.

This has given Thomas Edison State University a national reputation for academic excellence.

• 8-week accelerated degree courses

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Troy University was founded in 1887. Troy places a great emphasis on providing students with quality bachelor degree programs at an affordable rate.

It is also committed to creating excellent learning experiences for students that reflect the value of a Troy bachelor degree – one which equips them with the keys to future success.

• 9-week accelerated degree classes

Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

UHD is a public institution located in Houston, Texas. It’s the second-largest university in the area with a vast campus and more than 14,000 students enrolled.

It offers 52 bachelor degree programs, but it’s primarily an undergraduate institution. Its degrees offer up to 82% financial assistance for students, almost $10,000 on average. Students are admitted to bachelor degree programs from all over the world, with about 64 countries currently represented.

• 8-week accelerated degree classes

The University of Houston-Downtown is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

UMA is a public institution, the third-largest of the University of Maine System, located in Augusta, Maine. It’s a regional state university that provides bachelor degrees and select associate degrees for residents of central Maine as well as online courses.

It was established in 1965 and is now divided into two primary academic colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Professional Studies.

With this division, it aims to transform the lives of students of every age and background across the state through high-quality bachelor degrees offered online or on campus. UMA is especially noted for its experience and success working with adult students and their special challenges, such as family and work responsibilities.

• 7-week accelerated degree classes

The University of Maine at Augusta is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The Global Campus is the branch of the University of Maryland system devoted to helping students earn bachelor degrees, master’s, and doctorates via online learning.

They were established in 1947 and are headquartered in Largo, Maryland. However, they also have a number of satellite campuses and cater to a large number of international students, who attend their online bachelor degree programs.

• 8-week accelerated degree classes

The University of Maryland is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Massachusetts Global is a private, non-profit institution and offers more than 50 bachelor’s degrees for working adults in business, arts, sciences, health, and education areas.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees Courses Offered

• 8-week accelerated courses

The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.

Since its establishment in 1951, the university has been sponsored by the Original Free Will Baptist Convention, but it welcomes students of other faiths and denominations seeking a bachelor’s degree.

A wide campus is home for over 4,000 students per year. Its bachelor degree curriculum is especially designed to allow students to explore their faith through a liberal arts education, offering the convenience and flexibility students need.

• 8-week accelerated degree classes

The University of Mount Olive is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Located in Norman, Oklahoma, this public research university was founded in 1890.

More than 31,000 students per year enroll in over 150 bachelor degree programs, 160 master’s degree programs, and 75 doctorates.

It also maintains the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. The Sooners sports teams are well-known for their participation in the NCAA Division I.

• 8-week accelerated degree classes

The University of Oklahoma is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The university is located in Fayette, Iowa and has over 15 centers worldwide along with online degree programs.

With 6,000+ students and more than 40 bachelor degrees, it is primarily for students seeking a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s degree in education is also offered.

• 7-week accelerated degree courses

Upper Iowa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ready to Accelerate Your Bachelor’s Degree? Go!

Whether you’re interested in accelerated online degree completion programs, accelerated college degrees, or accelerated online degree programs, bachelor’s degree acceleration might be just a matter of you deciding to hit the throttle on your academic dreams… full speed ahead!

Here’s a recap of our top tips for accelerated online degrees:

1. Only pick accredited accelerated degree programs online from a university that has classes lasting only 8 weeks (or less)
2. Get credit for what you already know with your university’s Credit for Prior Learning Assessment
3. If you served in the military, get the college credit you deserve for your service!
4. Use CLEP multiple choice exams to test out of 6 months to 1 year of your college credits (limits depend on your school)
5. Accelerated bachelors degrees require you to stay focused by enrolling every semester with a full-time course load

Although degree acceleration shouldn’t be your only concern when getting the fastest bachelor degree, it’s often an important consideration. Accelerating your bachelors degree may require a little bit of compromise, but try not to sacrifice too much of your degree wish list for the sake of speed. Enjoy the journey!

The post 40 Best Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees Online [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

An accelerated associates degrees online may be an efficient, cost-effective way for you to earn an associates degree online fast.

This type of degree may pay-off quickly without taking up too much of your time. In many cases, you can earn college credit for what you already know.

People who hold a college degree often make significantly more money over their lifetimes than people who don’t hold a degree. It may take more time, money, energy and effort right now to earn a degree, but the payoff is clear.

Accelerated Associate’s Degree Programs

Here’s a list of associate’s degrees that offer accelerated 8 week classes:

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Computer Programming
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Fashion Merchandising
• Fire Science
• Healthcare Management
• Homeland Security
• Hospitality Management
• Information Technology
• Legal Studies
• Marketing
• Medical Assisting
• Medical Coding
• Paralegal
• Psychology

Careers (rather than jobs) are often more long-term, offer more benefits, and usually have more overall job security.

Accounting

Online Associate’s in Accounting

Earning an associate’s degree in accounting can help you develop skills that you need for an entry-level job in an office or business setting.

Many graduates work as bookkeepers or clerks, or they serve as assistants to the people who hold those positions. Other people pursue an associate’s degree because they own a business and want the skills to do their own bookkeeping instead of outsourcing that task.

Coursework may cover topics like taxation, auditing and payroll. Often, earning an AA or AS degree in accounting may allow you to transfer seamlessly into a bachelor’s degree program after graduation.

Business Administration

Online Associate’s in Business Administration

Studying for an associate’s degree in business can help prepare you for entry-level jobs in the business world. Industries to consider include sales, marketing, accounting, logistics and real estate.

During your schooling, you’ll likely study topics like taxation, statistics, international business, communications and business law. You may also gain computer skills that can help you become more organized or efficient at office tasks.

After graduation, some students pursue a bachelor’s degree in business. Alternatively, pairing your associate’s degree with several years of professional experience may be enough to allow you to move into supervisory roles or positions with greater responsibility.

Computer Programming

Online Associate’s in Computer Programming

If you are interested in computer languages and how software and operating systems work, then you might enjoy pursuing an associate’s degree in computer programming.

Students of this discipline often study a variety of programming languages, such as Python and C Language. While earning your associate’s degree, you’ll likely learn about computer hardware and website design as well.

After graduation, you might find an entry-level job that involves programming systems or software. You might also be able to use your degree to get a position managing networks, maintaining a company’s tech or teaching people how to use their work computers.

Criminal Justice

Online Associate’s in Criminal Justice

For students who are interested in law enforcement and the court system, a criminal justice associate’s degree may be a strategic step toward a fulfilling career.

With an associate’s, you might be able to seek employment as a security officer, a corrections officer, a victim advocate or a caseworker. To help get you ready for a criminal justice career, you’ll study the judicial process, law enforcement, correctional facilities, law, ethics, and criminology.

After graduation with an AA or AS degree, you might have the option to gain additional training that may qualify you to become a police officer.

Education

Online Associate’s in Education

If you are considering a career in teaching, an associate’s degree program in education can help you get started. Associate degree students learn about psychology, classroom management and teaching methods.

Although there are general associate’s in education degree programs available, you may also have the option of earning an associate’s in early childhood education or an associate’s in elementary education.

After graduation, you may be able to teach in a preschool, work at a daycare or serve as a teacher’s aide in elementary or high schools. In some states, holding an associate’s degree qualifies you to work as a substitute teacher.

Fashion Merchandising

Online Associate’s in Fashion Merchandising

If you’re the type of person to whom friends regularly turn for clothing advice, then you may find success with a career in fashion merchandising.

To pursue this line of work, you can start by earning an associate’s degree in fashion merchandising. You’ll study marketing, sales, accounting, textiles, design and human relations.

Your education may prepare you for employment in the buying department of a retail establishment or as the manager of an apparel store. Other job possibilities include working for a clothing manufacturer or opening your own shop.

Fire Science

Online Associate’s in Fire Science

Rescuing people and buildings from dangerous fires can be an extremely fulfilling career, but it’s important to gain the proper training.

Whether you already have a job in this field or are wanting to get started for the first time, an associate’s in fire science can help equip you with valuable information about the science of fires. You will also study combustion, fire suppression, fire prevention and legal codes.

Students often study other emergency services as well as firefighting. After graduation, you might choose to gain further education with a certification or a bachelor’s degree program.

Healthcare Management

Online Associate’s in Healthcare Management

If you want to help organizations deliver quality health services to patients, then you may consider a healthcare management associate’s degree. This program can help you find employment as a medical assistant, a healthcare information manager or an administrator in a care facility.

During your schooling, you will study finance, communication, marketing and project management. You’ll also learn computer skills that can help you keep electronic records and run an office smoothly.

After completing your associate’s degree program, you may be eligible to take a certification exam from the American Academy of Professional Coders or the American Health Information Management Association.

Homeland Security

Online Associate’s in Homeland Security

To help protect your country and your fellow citizens, you may go to college for an associate’s degree in homeland security.

With this degree program, you’ll often study terrorism, infrastructure, emergency services, disaster management and cybersecurity. You may also learn about the laws and policies that relate to homeland security issues.

After graduation with an AA or AS degree, you might choose to pursue work as a security officer, or you may work for the Transportation Security Administration. Another option is to become an officer with a local city or county police department or a specialty police force.

Hospitality Management

Online Associate’s in Hospitality Management

If you love to create great experiences for others and help them feel at ease no matter where they are, then a career in hospitality management might be for you.

Professionals in this field often find employment with hotels, casinos, cruise lines, airlines, resorts, restaurants and bars. Some choose to become event planners. As you earn an associate’s degree, you may study marketing, customer service, tourism, management and business.

After graduation, you may be qualified to hold a supervisory position, such as managing a housekeeping or restaurant team. You may also work at the front desk of a hotel.

Information Technology

Online Associate’s in Information Technology

An associate’s degree in information technology may give you the skills to perform entry-level jobs related to computers, networks or media.

You might choose to offer computer support services to businesses or individuals, or you may develop or maintain websites for companies. Some IT graduates are employed as tech managers or network specialists. In fact, trained tech employees are often in demand throughout many industries.

Thanks to coursework that covers desktop management, software, STEM concepts, networks and project coordination, your associate’s degree can help prepare you for jobs in a wide variety of applications.

Legal Studies

Online Associate’s in Legal Studies

Are you interested in the legal system but aren’t sure that a career as an attorney is for you?

Perhaps you’d prefer to become a legal assistant or a paralegal. Earning an associate’s in the field of legal studies can help you prepare for those positions. Associate’s degree holders may also find work as legal secretaries, and they are sometimes responsible for finding information and data in titles and other legal documents.

Classes for this degree program may cover contracts, wills, litigation, torts, research and ethics. After graduation from some programs, you may be eligible to take the Certified Paralegal Examination.

Marketing

Online Associate’s in Marketing

To enter the world of sales and retail, you may consider beginning your college education with an associate’s degree in marketing program.

People often pursue this degree in anticipation of a career in customer service, advertising or public relations. You might be responsible for marketing businesses, services or products through social media, catalogs, trade shows or networking. An associate’s in marketing program typically covers topics like accounting, economics, statistics and communication.

Various types of marketing, such as digital and organizational, might also be covered in the classes. Some associate programs (AA or AS) include an internship component as well.

Medical Assisting

Online Associate’s in Medical Assisting

The medical field is always in demand. If you want to give healthcare a try, an associate’s degree in medical assisting may give you the opportunity to enter the field quickly without devoting years of your life to school.

Assistants often record patient data, take their vitals, prepare examination areas and help doctors and nurses as needed. In addition, assistants may do office work and keep records in order.

In school, you’ll often study anatomy and physiology, computers, medical terminology and procedures, ethics, healthcare law, and insurance. After graduation, you may choose to move on to a nursing degree program.

Medical Coding

Online Associate’s in Medical Coding

If you enjoy working with data and are comfortable in healthcare settings, then a job as a medical biller or coder may be a good fit for you.

Earning an associate’s degree in medical coding will help you become familiar with the various codes used for medical records. While you are working on this degree, you will also learn about anatomy, illnesses, insurance, health law and policy, medical procedures, and billing issues, and you will gain computer skills.

After completing your degree program, you may work in a hospital, a doctor’s office or a long-term care facility.

Paralegal

Online Associate’s in Paralegal

As with an associate’s degree in legal studies, a paralegal associate’s degree program can help prepare you to work in a law office. However, this particular degree program is specifically for becoming a paralegal.

In addition to their on-campus programs, a growing number of universities also offer online paralegal programs, which may allow you to earn your degree without interrupting your current job responsibilities.

As a paralegal, you’ll likely work alongside lawyers and help them prepare for their cases. Responsibilities may include conducting research and filing reports, and your firm can bill clients for that work that you do on their behalf. In school, you’ll learn about the law and explore legal issues, and your coursework will help prepare you to work with contracts, perform interviews and research past cases.

Your degree program may qualify you to sit for the Certified Paralegal Examination.

Psychology

Online Associate’s in Psychology

Are you interested in the ways that people think and act? If so, you might want to go to school for an associate’s degree in psychology.

Your coursework may cover counseling, developmental psychology, relationships, human development and personality. Graduates often find work in a variety of fields, such as home health care, youth programs or case management. Others choose to work as aides in residential care homes, mental health settings or rehab facilities.

The field of psychology offers even more opportunities to those with bachelor’s degrees, so you might elect to transfer your credits to a four-year degree program after graduation.

How Fast Can I Get My Associate’s Degree Online?

With a bit of effort, you can go from zero college credits to an online associate’s degree in as little as one semester. In order to do this, you might need to use a combination of the following methods to finish your associate’s degree program quickly.

1. Select a college that offers online accelerated associate’s degree courses.
2. Take a few 90-minute multiple choice exams for college credit hours. Most universities will give you between one semester (15 college credits) to one year (30 college credits) using this credit by exam method. Over 2,000 accredited universities accept this means of earning college credit. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert. Just borrow a study guide from the library, take a few practice tests, and then take the exam.
3. Get college credit hours for your life experience, work experience, and/or military experience.

Using these 3 methods, the answer to your question – how fast can I get my associate’s degree online – is fast, very fast!

How Many College Credits Is an Associate’s Degree?

At most colleges, an associate’s degree program is 60 semester credits (or 90 quarter credits, if the school is quarter-based).

Since the majority of entry-level classes are worth 3 credit hours, 60 credit hours is the equivalent of about 20 college classes.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate’s Degree?

In a traditional, campus-based setting, it will take about 2 years to complete your associate’s degree program. To finish in 2 years, you will likely need to take 10 college classes each year.

If you want to finish your degree in less time, you may enroll in accelerated online courses and test out of some of your general education program requirements. Together, these two strategies can help you complete your online associate’s degree program in 1 year or less.

Can You Earn an Associate’s Degree Online?

Yes, you may earn an associate’s degree online in a wide range of subjects, including business administration, liberal arts, criminal justice, accounting, psychology, and sociology, among others.

If you want to finish at a faster pace, you will likely be interested in online accelerated associate’s degree programs.

Accelerating Your College Degree

Earning your associate degree online and through a fast track program will likely be a bit different from earning it in a more traditional setting, so here’s the important stuff you need to know.

There are three main types of fast track formats:

• Accelerated degrees
• Degree completion programs
• Accelerated courses

Each format is designed for students who are in different places in their educational careers. If you have no college experience, for example, you may want to find a degree program that offers a fully accelerated associate’s degree from start to finish.

If you have some college experience and have worked toward a degree in the past, you may enroll in a fast track degree completion program. These programs allow you to use credit you’ve earned in another degree program to accelerate your degree completion process.

In as little as a few class sessions or semesters, you may be holding your associate degree.

Accelerated courses are a bit different in that they are not full degree or degree completion programs. You may find these courses through accelerated programs or through regular online programs.

These courses enable you to take classes that meet for five to eight weeks (instead of the traditional 16 week semester schedule) so that you may complete more credits per year.

With this format, you may complete enough credits to earn your entire degree in a single year if you were to consistently take classes each time a new session rolls around.

If these accelerated classes sound scary because so much is crammed into so little time, then you might sprinkle in a fast track class when you need or want one. Summer can be a great option for these formats.

Types of Associate Degree Programs (AA, AS, AAS)

There is not one single type of associate degree that everyone earns. These degree programs are catered to your interests and future career options.

There are three main types of associate degrees:

• AA (Associate of Arts)
• AS (Associate of Science)
• AAS (Associate of Applied Science)

The first two degrees listed (AA and AS) are usually pursued by students who intend to go on and earn a bachelor’s degree (whether on campus or online), though it’s not required. You may find a job with an AA or AS.

An AA degree may land you a position in general education as a teaching aid or assistant, for example, without the requirement of holding a bachelor’s degree.

Students who pursue an AAS in various fields typically go on to the workforce right away. Many can enter into high paying career opportunities immediately.

For example, paralegals make an average of $52,920 per year, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Paralegal work is a career opportunity that is available to those who earn a paralegal AAS, which is available in an accelerated associate’s degree format online.

No matter the associate degree program you pursue, you may be able to choose from a variety of concentrations, including business, communication, accounting, criminal justice, information systems, and human services. Basic core courses will be required in addition to courses that address your specific field.

A typical associate degree program takes two years to complete, but an accelerated associate’s degree may be completed in half the time.

What to Expect from an Online Accelerated Program

Earning an accelerated associate’s degree won’t be easy and can’t be done with little to no effort. You will be required to cover the same amount of material as a degree program that’s not accelerated, which means you’ll have less time to learn the information. Don’t let this scare you, though.

Many people who work and care for families successfully complete their online accelerated degrees and go on to find rewarding positions in their fields that pay well. Know what to expect before going in, though, and try to mentally plan ahead.

Think right now about where in your schedule you would fit in online lectures, assessments, and reading. Do you usually watch TV on the weeknights? You may have to substitute it with study time. Sacrifices will most likely have to be made to complete your accelerated online degree, but the long term payoffs far outweigh those short-lived inconveniences.

If you’ve never taken courses in an online degree program before and aren’t sure what to expect, here’s a brief overview.

All of your course material and lectures will usually be made available to you online through a platform that the college chooses its students to use. You may be required to watch lectures and then take online quizzes or exams.

You can usually do all of this work when it’s convenient for you, as long as you submit work by the announced deadlines each session. In other words, you may watch lectures and learn the material in the middle of the night if that’s convenient for you.

Online programs are quite flexible and allow you to choose when and where (your home, a local library, your workplace while on break) you want to work toward your degree.

Salary Boost and Career Possibilities with an Associate Degree

In today’s job market, people are wondering if it’s really worth it to get a degree. The simple answer is yes.

The U.S. Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics found that for workers between the ages of 25 and 34, the average annual salary for someone without a high school diploma was $29,300.

If a worker has a high school diploma, the average annual salary gets bumped up to $35,000. If a worker holds an associate degree, however, the average annual salary is $40,000.

In other words, if you earn an associate degree—which, in an accelerated format can take you less than two years—then you may earn, on average, almost 30% more than someone who only has a high school diploma.

It may not even cost you the difference in pay to earn your associate degree, which means you may start benefiting from that pay increase the first year you’re in the workforce with an associate degree.

All of the research points to the fact that people who hold degrees are more likely to make a higher salary than people who don’t. The financial advantages are easy to see. What might not be as obvious to some people is that by simply holding an associate degree, your career and job opportunities might increase as well.

Many job positions will only consider candidates with an associate degree or higher. It’s easy to understand why: During an associate degree or accelerated associate’s degree program, you will be trained in a specific field and may be able to demonstrate desired skills when you go on the job market.

Since a high school diploma only indicates general knowledge and little to no relevant training for the job market, you often won’t be as appealing an applicant as someone with an associate degree.

Choosing an Accelerated Degree Program

With so many online educational degree choices out there, it can be overwhelming to sit down and research programs before deciding which ones to choose. These categories or considerations are going to be the most important to you right now and in the future.

They are not the only ones, and if you’ve identified other considerations that are make or break for you, don’t leave them off your research list.

Fast Online Associate’s Degree Programs You Can Finish in 1 Year or Less

Some of the most popular accelerated associate degree programs that can be earned online and in an accelerated format include:

• Accounting
• Animation
• Business Administration
• Child Development
• Communications
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Information Systems
• Computer Programming
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Criminology
• Culinary Arts
• Design Studies
• Early Childhood Education
• Education
• Electronics Engineering
• Emergency Medical Services
• Entrepreneurship
• Fire Science
• General Studies
• Graphic Design
• Health Informatics
• Health Information Technology
• Health Sciences
• Healthcare Management
• Homeland Security
• Hospitality Management
• Human Resources
• Human Services
• Information Technology
• Insurance Billing and Coding
• Legal Studies
• Liberal Arts
• Management
• Management Information Systems
• Marketing
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Medical Assisting
• Medical Coding
• Medical Office Administration
• Medical Transcription
• Ministry
• Network Administration
• Network Security
• Nursing
• Paralegal
• Physical Therapist Assisting
• Psychology
• Public Safety Administration
• Retail & Sales Management
• Software Application Development
• Small Business
• Sonography
• Special Education
• Surgical Technology
• Theology
• Web Development
• Web Programming
• Wind Energy Technology

You may find almost any major or specialization that might be of interest to you in an accelerated associate degree program. Many times, if you develop appropriate and relevant skills in one degree field, you may be eligible for a job in a related degree field.

With the online format, though, the choices that are available to you are vast since there’s no need to move or travel to take classes. Online degree options may give you access to the most useful associates degrees from wherever you are in the world.

Financial Aid and Tuition

Let’s face it, many people choose an accelerated associate degree because it can cost less than a more traditional platform. That is not a given, though, so be sure to understand all the costs and fees associated with the program you’ve chosen.

Many accelerated associate degree programs add fees like a “registration” fee or “proration” fee that can add up to hundreds of dollars each course session. If tuition and fees aren’t clearly stated on the university’s website, get in touch with someone and inquire. There may also be hidden fees for actions like if you drop a class after registering for it.

Requirements

Most accelerated associate degree programs will require you to have a high school diploma or GED. Some, though, will have other requirements that may not be as obvious. Some of these may include:

• A certain GPA
• Minimum age to get started
• Specific technology to complete coursework online
• A fee to apply

These accelerated associate degree requirements should be clearly listed on the university’s website. If not, get in touch with someone at the university and ask.

Accreditation

If you’ve spent any amount of time on our website, you’ve probably seen this buzz word come up a number of times. It’s a very important word and one that is easily forgotten when searching for accelerated associate degree programs.

Look for either regional or national accreditation when choosing a program. If you select a field that has a national or regional accrediting agency specific to that field, only select programs that have gone through the accreditation process.

Earning College Credits Before Getting Started

The knowledge, skills, and life experiences you already have might earn you credit toward your degree, making your time to completion even shorter. You may earn credit toward your accelerated associate’s degree in these ways:

• Military service or training
• EMT or Fire and Rescue training (or similar)
• Certain scores on exams like AP or IB exams in high school
• Credit by Exam via CLEP, DSST, or DANTES exams
• Certification or licensure (RN, or EMT, for example)

Many people overlook the exam possibilities listed here. For example, you can sit for a CLEP exam in 33 different core subjects, like History and Literature. If you pass any of those 90 minute exams, you may earn up to six hours of credit toward your core requirements for each one. Accelerated associate degree programs often utilize several methods of acceleration.

Transfer Credits into a Bachelor’s Program

One of the best parts of accelerated associate degree programs is that they offer you the ability to easily transfer credits into bachelor degree programs.

For example, if you earned your Associate’s in Human Resource Management, you may more easily transfer credits into an accredited online bachelor’s degree program. Then, you might only have to complete 2 more years of college to get your bachelor’s degree.

List of the Best Schools that Offer Online Associate’s Degrees

Rankings Methodology

The following list of online schools that offer associate degrees will help you narrow down your choices based on degrees offered, accreditation, and even tuition costs.

Associate’s Degrees

• Business Administration
• Business Management
• Criminal Justice
• General Studies
• General Studies – Education
• Mortuary Science
• Radiation Therapy

Amarillo is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Associate Degrees

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice
• General Studies

Baker is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Associate Degree Programs

• Arts
• Science

Bethel University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Associates Degrees

• Business Administration
• Christian Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• General Studies
• Mass Communication

Campbellsville University is officially accredited and/or recognized by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Fast Track Associate Degree Programs

• Accounting Technician
• At-Risk Youth
• Business Administration
• Business Management
• Business Management – Real Estate
• Chemical Dependency
• Child Development
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Criminal Justice – Corrections
• Culinary Arts
• Cyberdefense – Information Assurance
• Engineering
• General Studies
• Fire Service Administration
• Food and Beverage Management
• Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• Hotel Management
• Information Technology
• Journalism/Communications
• Kinesiology
• Logistics and Global Supply Chain Management
• Mathematics
• Medical Coding and Billing
• Medical Office Technology
• Modern Language
• Network Systems Administrator
• Office Technology
• Paralegal / Legal Assistant
• Restaurant and Culinary Management
• Social Work
• Teaching Certification

CTC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and offers the following associate degrees.

Fast Track Associate’s Degrees

• Accounting Technology
• Administrative Office Professional
• Computer Programming and Database Management – Computer Software Development
• Financial Services
• Health Information Management
• Hospitality Management
• Pre-Business Administration

Cincinnati State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Associate Degrees

• Administrative Technology
• Allied Health
• Arts & Sciences
• Business Administration (Part Time)
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood Education (Part Time)
• Industrial Technology

Clarion University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Associate Degree Programs

• Accounting Technology
• Administrative Office Professional
• Computer Programming and Database Management – Computer Software Development
• Financial Services
• Health Information Management
• Hospitality Management
• Pre-Business Administration

CSI is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

College offers these Associate Degree Programs

• Accounting
• Business Management
• Casino Management
• Communication
• Computing and Information Technology – Software – Programming
• Computing and Information Technology – Software – Web Development
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood Education
• Elementary Education
• English
• History
• Hospitality Management
• Psychology
• Secondary Education – Life and Physical Science
• Sociology
• Special Education
• World Languages

CSN has been continuously accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) since 1975.

Accelerated AA Courses in the following majors:

• Biblical Studies
• Business Administration
• Communication Studies
• Computer Information Technology
• Criminal Justice
• General Studies
• Health Care Administration
• Human Resource Management
• Logistics and Supply Chain
• Marketing and Sales
• Nonprofit Management
• Psychology

Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Business Administration
• Computer Information Systems
• Criminal Justice Administration
• Fire Service Administration
• General Studies
• Human Services
• Environmental Studies

Columbia has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1918.

• Accounting
• Arts & Sciences
• Business Management
• Criminal Justice
• Digital Photography
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Geographic Information Systems
• Health Information Management Technology
• Marketing
• Probation and Supervision
• Recreation and Leisure Studies
• Sport Management
• Supply Chain Management

CSCC has been proudly accredited by The Higher Learning Commission since 1973.

• Business
• Christian Ministry
• General Studies

Crown is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting Technician
• Administrative Assistant
• Advertising and Marketing
• Caregiver Services
• Medical Administrative Assistant
• Medical Assistant
• Paraprofessional Educator
• Photography
• Recreation Management
• Urban Forest Management

DCB is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Computer Information Systems
• Finance
• Health Information Technology

Davenport is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting Technology
• Business Administration
• Computer Information Technology
• Computer Programming and Analysis
• Criminal Justice Technology Bridge
• Industrial Management Technology
• Internet Services Technology
• Office Administration

Daytona State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Aeronautics
• Aviation Business Administration
• Aviation Maintenance
• Engineering Fundamentals
• Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• Technical Management

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting & Finance
• Arts
• Business Administration – General Administration
• Business Administration – Human Resources Management
• Business Administration – Marketing
• Business Administration – Operations Management
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Early Childhood Education
• Emergency Management Technology
• Fire Protection Technology
• General Education
• Healthcare Management Technology
• Hospitality Management
• Intelligence Studies
• School-Age Education
• Science

FTCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Accounting
• Aviation Management
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice
• Healthcare Management

Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting Technology
• Business Administration
• Computer Information Technology
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Early Childhood Management
• Office Administration
• Supply Chain Management

FSCJ is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting
• Anthropology
• Art History
• Business Administration
• Communication Studies
• Economics
• English
• General Studies / Social Science
• Geography
• Graphic & Interactive Design
• History
• Humanities
• Japanese
• Music – General
• Music Technology
• Political Science
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish
• Women’s Studies

Foothill is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

• Business Administration
• Business Administration – Import Export Compliance
• Business Administration – International Business
• Business Administration – Logistics Management
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Emergency Management
• Entrepreneurship
• Financial Services
• Healthcare Management Technology
• Project Management Technology
• Supply Chain Management – Distribution Management
• Supply Chain Management – Global Logistics Technology

Forsyth Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting
• Business
• Computer Programming
• Criminal Justice – Corrections
• Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement
• Early Childhood Education
• English
• Entrepreneurship
• General Business
• Graphic Communication
• Human Services
• Infant / Toddler Education
• Land Surveying / Geomatics
• Network Specialist
• Office Technology
• Social Science

Great Basin is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

• Business Administration – General
• Business Administration – Human Resources Management
• Criminal Justice Technology – Corrections
• Criminal Justice Technology – Homeland Security
• Criminal Justice Technology – Law Enforcement
• Emergency Management Technology
• Information Technology – Computer Programming
• Information Technology – Database Management
• Information Technology – General Studies
• Information Technology – Network Management
• Information Technology – Security and Data Assurance
• Information Technology – Web Development
• Medical Office Administration
• Medical Office Administration – Healthcare Administration
• Medical Office Administration – Medical Billing and Coding
• Office Administration
• Simulation and Game Development

GTCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges.

• Arts
• Early Childhood Education

GCSC is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Computer Science
• Cybersecurity
• General Studies
• Health Professions
• Homeland Security
• Mathematics
• Supervisory Leadership

Hawaii Pacific has been accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission since 1973.

• Business
• Emergency Management
• Fire Services Administration

Idaho State is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

• Business Administration
• Computer Information Technology
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Health Information Technology

IRSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting
• Business
• Christian Ministries
• Computer Information Technology
• Criminal Justice
• Integrative Studies

Indiana Wesleyan is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• General Studies

Jackson is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Criminal Justice
• Fire Science
• General Studies
• Health Services Administration
• Homeland Security
• Information Technology
• Medical Administrative Billing & Coding
• Medical Assisting Science
• Paralegal Studies

Keiser is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Accounting
• Business Management
• Computer Information Systems
• Cybersecurity
• Early Childhood Education
• Education
• Health Information Technology Management
• Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

LCCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Apologetics
• Business
• Creative Writing
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood Education
• Education (Non-licensure)
• History
• Information Systems
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Medical Office Assistant
• Paralegal Studies
• Psychology
• Psychology – Christian Counseling
• Religion
• STEM Mathematics

Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Business Administration General
• Computer Science Information Technology
• Computer Science Programming
• Liberal Studies

Limestone is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Business
• Economics
• English
• History
• Political Science
• Sociology

Lorain County Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Business Management Generalist
• Business Transfer
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice – Corrections
• Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement
• General Studies
• Health Data and Information Management
• Health Information Technology Professional
• Information Technology – Cyber Security
• Information Technology – Data Center Operations
• Information Technology – Database Management
• Information Technology – Desktop Support Specialist
• Information Technology – Front End Web Development
• Information Technology – Programming for Database/Web
• Information Technology – Server Administration
• Management Information Systems
• Medical Coding and Billing
• Medical Office Management
• Office Technology – Administrative Assistant
• Office Technology – Office Professional
• Versatilist Information Technology

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Select from several online associate degree programs as listed below.

• Accounting Technology
• Business Administration
• Business Entrepreneurship
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Marketing Management – Entrepreneurship
• Marketing Management – International Business
• Marketing Management – Marketing

Miami Dade is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting
• Administrative Professional
• Agriculture – College Transfer
• Behavioral Science
• Business
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice – Corrections
• Criminal Justice – Law Enforcement
• Elementary Education
• General Studies
• Social Science

NECC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Agriculture
• Art
• Business – Financial / Insurance Services
• Business Management
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood
• Education
• Entrepreneurship
• Environmental Science
• Health Care Management
• Health Information Technology
• History
• Human Services
• Mortuary Science
• Music
• Nursing
• Psychology
• Sports & Personal Fitness
• Theater
• Web & Graphic Design

NCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer associate programs.

• Biology
• Business Leadership
• Child Development
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood – 6^th Grade
• English
• Psychology
• Social Sciences
• Sociology

Odessa is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Enterprise Development
• Pre-Professional Studies

OSUIT is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting and Business Management
• Behavioral Science
• Business
• Business and Marketing
• Criminal Justice
• Health Information Technology
• Interdepartmental Studies
• Teaching

OTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Business Administration
• General Studies
• Health Information Technology
• Information Technology
• Criminal Justice Studies
• Paralegal Studies

Peirce is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice
• Human Development and Family Study
• Information Science and Technology
• Labor and Employment Relations
• Letters, Arts and Sciences
• Turf Grass and Science Management

Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice and Criminology
• Fire Science
• Information Technology
• Legal Support and Services
• Nursing
• Public Safety and Security
• Small Group Management

Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice
• Digital Photography
• Fashion Merchandising
• Information Technologies
• Liberal Arts
• Marketing

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Addictions Counseling
• Bible
• Business Administration
• Church Ministries
• Early Childhood Education
• Education
• English
• General Studies
• Human Services
• Intercultural Studies
• Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Social Studies
• TESOL

SAGU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Business Administration
• Computer Information Technology
• Computer Networking
• Computer Programming and Analysis
• Crime Scene Technology
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Cybersecurity
• Digital Forensics and Computer Investigations
• Early Childhood Education
• Emergency Administration and Management
• Fire Science
• Health Information Technology
• Health Sciences
• Web Development

St. Petersburg is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Early Childhood Education
• Human Services Technology
• Information Technology – Business Support
• Information Technology – Cybersecurity
• Information Technology – Network Management

StanlyCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Diagnostic Medical Sonography
• Health Care Specialist – Nurse Aide
• Health Care Specialist – Pharmacy Technician
• Health Information Technology
• Management
• Medical Assistant

SFCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Acquisition & Contract Management
• Business Administration
• Information Systems
• Information Technology
• Marketing

Strayer is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• General Studies

TRCC has been accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Accounting
• Business and Office Administration
• Computer Science
• Information Systems Support and Administration
• Legal Assistant Technology
• Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Management
• Office Technology

TVCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Administration of Early Care & Education
• Anthropology
• Business
• Community Health Science
• Computer Programming
• Criminal Justice
• Criminal Justice: Law Enforcement
• Early Childhood Education – Infant / Toddler
• Early Childhood Education – Preschool
• English
• Entrepreneurship
• General Studies
• History
• Logistics Management
• Mathematics
• Networking
• Office Management
• Political Science
• Psychology
• Secondary Education
• Spanish
• Web Development

TMCC is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

• Business Administration
• Computer Information Systems
• Elementary Education
• History
• Information Technology
• Liberal Arts
• Management
• Marketing
• Mathematics
• Psychology

TCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Business
• Child Development – Early Childhood
• Criminal Justice
• Economics
• Education
• English
• General Studies
• Health Information Technology
• Healthcare Administration
• History
• Medical Office Management
• Paralegal
• Psychology
• Social Work
• Sociology

TJC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Accounting
• Applied Business
• Arts
• Early Childhood Education
• Information Technology
• Paralegal Studies

UAF is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

• Business Administration
• Fisheries Technology
• Health Information Management
• Nursing

UAS has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities since 1983.

• Arts

UDel is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

• Business Administration
• Business Administration – Accounting
• Business Administration – Financial Services
• Business Administration – Management
• Business Administration – Management Information Systems
• Business Administration – Small Business
• Computer Information Systems
• Information and Library Science
• Justice Studies
• Liberal Studies – Women and Gender Studies
• Mental Health and Human Services
• Music – Contemporary and Popular
• Public Administration
• Rehabilitation Therapy

UMA is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

• Accounting
• Agribusiness Marketing/Management Technology
• Business Administration
• Health Information Technology
• Legal Assisting
• Marketing
• Medical Office Management
• Office Management
• Specialized Studies
• Sport Marketing and Management
• Travel and Hotel Management

UNO is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Associate’s in Business Fundamentals
• Associate’s in Criminal Justice
• Associate’s in Information Technology
• Associate’s in Professional Focus

UOPX is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Associate’s in Business Administration
• Associate’s in General Studies
• Associate’s in Coaching
• Associate’s in Human Services
• Associate’s in Missions & Ministries
• Associate’s in Criminal Justice
• Associate’s in Psychology
• Associate’s in Public Health
• Associate’s in Information Technology Sciences

University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission.

• Business Administration
• General Studies
• Health Sciences – Administration
• Health Sciences – General Studies (Military Training)
• Information Technology

UIW is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Accounting Technology
• Business Administration
• Business Management Technology
• Computer Network Administration
• Computer Software Specialist Technology
• General Studies
• Information Services and Support
• Programming and Software Development
• Technical Studies

UToledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Behavioral Sciences
• Behavioral Sciences – Psychology
• Behavioral Sciences – Sociology
• Business Management
• Business Management – Finance
• Computer Programming Technology
• Funeral Service Education
• General Studies
• General Studies – Business Studies
• General Studies – Technology Apprenticeship
• Health Information Management
• Law Enforcement
• Liberal Arts – Social Science
• Pharmacy Technology

Vincennes is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

• Accounting
• Advertising & Graphic Design
• Business Administration
• Business Administration – Marketing
• Business Analytics
• Cosmetology
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Emergency Medical Science
• Fire Protection Technology
• Global Business Management
• Healthcare Administration
• Healthcare Business Informatics
• Human Resources Management
• Legal Office
• Medical Billing and Coding
• Medical Office Professional
• Mobile Applications Developer
• Office Finance
• Office Professional
• Office Software
• Project Management
• Supply Chain Management – Distribution Management
• Supply Chain Management – Global Logistics Technology
• Web Designer
• Web Developer

Wake Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Accelerated Associate Degree Courses

• Applied Science
• Business Administration
• Human Services
• Justice Administration
• Religion

Wayland Baptist is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

• Computer Science
• General Studies
• Health Information Technology
• Medical Laboratory Technician

Weber State is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

• Early Childhood Education
• Interdisciplinary Studies

Western Kentucky is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Didn’t see an online school offering the accelerated associate degree program you are looking for? Drop us a comment below and we will give you a hand!

Other Benefits of Getting an Associates Degree Online Fast

So, we’ve mentioned the potential salary and career benefits of earning an accelerated online degree, but there are some other benefits that may seem less obvious. Online learning allows you to get your degree when it’s most convenient for you. And, if you want to continue by earning your bachelors degree at an online college, that option may also be available to you.

For one, completing a degree often demonstrates to future employers that you are dedicated to learning. It may also indicate that you are trainable, a quality most employers look for in potential job applicants. Completing an accelerated degree program may show that you can learn a wealth of information in a short amount of time, a valuable skill in the workforce.

Additionally, now that even the most prestigious online colleges are offering accelerated associate degree programs, you may even be able to earn your associate’s degree from a well-respected and top-ranked college or university.

Lastly, you may not be on the market for a bachelor’s degree right now, but credits from your associate’s program may transfer toward a bachelor’s degree down the road. And if you choose an accelerated format for your bachelor’s degree, you may be well on your way to holding that degree in your hands, too.

Of course, the online aspect of fast track online degree programs is it offers flexibility and convenience. Plus, they usually save you money. The online format may also afford you the opportunity to network with students and instructors from around the country, a possible advantage when you go on the job market with your new degree.

Networking is especially important, since Business Week reports that the best way to find and secure a job is through word of mouth and through the social and business connections you have made.

Inside Higher Education reports that more than 14 million jobs are held by people who hold associate degrees in this country. An associate degree can be a valuable asset when searching for jobs, and accelerated associate’s degree programs may give you a convenient, affordable way to attain that asset.

The post Top 50 Fastest Accelerated Associates Degrees Online [2024 Fast Track] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

As more people who have already obtained their undergraduate degree look at their job prospects and ponder a return to school for a master’s degree, more colleges are making accelerated master’s degrees available with a wide variety of online courses for a diverse array of disciplines.

Now, you can even pursue a one year masters program or get into accredited online masters programs no GRE required!

15 Accelerated Masters Programs

When you’re trying to decide which way to go, think about how your degree could apply to your current job, or if you want to take a completely different career path into something that gives you more satisfaction.

Here’s a list of master’s programs offering accelerated courses:

1. Accounting
2. Business Administration
3. Computer Science
4. Criminal Justice
5. Education
6. Engineering Management
7. Entrepreneurship
8. Finance
9. Healthcare Administration
10. Information Technology
11. Management
12. Marketing
13. Nursing
14. Public Administration
15. Psychology

A recently published study from Georgetown University compared the starting salaries for various majors and found that the boost from obtaining a postgraduate degree could vary by specialty from a scarcely noticeable 3% in Studio Arts to an atmospheric 190% in medical fields.

Accounting

The field of accounting is one of the backbones of the business world. Any business or government entity will always have a need for accountants.

Accountants are primarily tasked to prepare and examine financial records, seeing to it that everything is accurate. They also make sure that taxes are being paid on time. Accountants may also be in charge of inspecting books, organizing and maintaining financial records, and recommending ways to reduce costs and improve revenue and profit.

Students of accounting may acquire knowledge on laws governing business, accounting theories, different business administration schemes, statistics, and ethics. They may be taught how to prepare key documents such as tax returns, business proposals, and financial statements.

Accounting can be ideal for students who love to solve problems.

Business Administration

Business administration is one of the most popular degrees, incorporating numerous types of management positions. From small businesses to large corporations, every enterprise will find a need for graduates of business administration.

Holders of business administration degrees often have numerous career paths to choose from. They may become business or management consultants who help firms improve their operational efficiencies, or sales managers who are responsible for revenue production within an enterprise.

They may also become financial analysts, market research analysts, or HR specialists. Other career paths for graduates of business administration may include real estate appraisers, insurance underwriters, purchasing agents, logisticians, and labor relations specialists.

Business administration degree holders also have a host of management opportunities, from general operations managers to chief financial officers to chief operating officers.

Students who are self-motivated, organized, and good at managing personalities and teams are ideal candidates for business administration degrees.

Computer Science

Computer science is one of the more popular fields of study today thanks largely to the role that computer technologies play in modern society. Computer science graduates can expect employment opportunities from financial organizations to communication firms to multinational companies to government agencies.

Common career paths for computer science degree holders may include IT consultants who advise clients on the design, planning, and installation of information technology systems; cybersecurity consultants who manage risks to the security of information; and information systems managers who are responsible for the operation of computer systems within a company.

Computer science master’s degree holders may also become database administrators, multimedia programmers, and game developers.

Computer science students may acquire technical skills such as programming languages, network design and engineering, hardware architecture, software engineering, software tools and packages, and multimedia design. They are also expected to gain skills in communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

Criminal Justice

A degree in criminal justice may open numerous job opportunities not only in law enforcement but other fields such as social work and crisis management, among others.

Most criminal justice graduates become police officers. Others may become corrections managers who supervise a prison or correctional facility. A few join the Federal Bureau of Investigation as federal agents, whose responsibilities include, among others, investigating organized crime and combatting terrorism.

While graduates of criminal justice often join law enforcement, they may also have other career options to take. They may become private detectives who do background checks and undercover investigation related to compensation claims and divorce cases. Others work as fraud investigators to determine whether or not a claim of property damage or personal injury is true.

Education

People often think that all graduates of education end up being teachers and academicians. On the contrary, a degree in education does not always translate to being in front of a blackboard. Many people with degrees in education even work outside the campus.

Like graduates of other liberal arts degrees, graduates of education are highly flexible and capable of analyzing new information. They may be capable of working in other fields such as marketing, civil service, advertising, and consultancy.

Still, most education majors work in the academe in various capacities. Aside from becoming teachers, they may also become school administrators who oversee the day-to-day operations of their institutions. They may also work as student counselors who guide young people in dealing with challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Others may work in childcare facilities or as curriculum writers.

Engineering Management

Students of engineering management are prepared for leadership positions, particularly in leading teams of engineers tasked to undertake technical tasks and complete project-based works.

Combining their engineering knowledge with management expertise, engineering management majors are highly in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, electronic component manufacturing, scientific research, and electronic component manufacturing.

Engineering management majors may pursue different specialties such as crisis and risk management, environmental and energy management, and economics, finance, and cost accounting. They may also pursue a career in information security management, operations research, and software engineering and information systems management.

Most graduates of engineering management, however, end up as senior lead analysts who ensure the efficiency of their teams on their assigned tasks; engineering project managers who oversee large-scale projects; or construction management engineers.

Students who have a knack for solving challenging problems and gifted with the ability to visualize solutions using design tools may be considered a good fit for engineering management courses.

Entrepreneurship

A degree in entrepreneurship helps give students background knowledge on diverse fields such as accounting, finance, management, marketing, and other subjects necessary in running a successful business.

Entrepreneurship majors may start their own business ventures or pursue other career options in multiple sectors. A degree in entrepreneurship may open a diverse mix of job opportunities for graduates.

An entrepreneurship degree may enable graduates to pursue a career in sales. Their education and training might come in especially handy in managing accounts and following up on leads. Others may also work as business consultants who can work with clients in identifying operational inefficiencies and recommending potential solutions.

Entrepreneurship majors may also pursue mid-level management positions at large enterprises. Other possible job choices for entrepreneurship majors include corporate recruiters tasked to locate, interview, and hire employees and management analysts who look for ways to make firms more efficient.

Finance

Students who pursue a degree in finance may be those who like to think about numbers and are intrigued by stocks, bonds, and the financial markets. There is a wide range of careers that may await them after graduation, making finance a beneficial major to pursue.

Finance graduates are sought-after in the public sector, financial institutions, insurance firms, and management consultancies. With their training, finance graduates typically have the analytical skills required to dissect financial statements, assess the qualitative and quantitative dimensions of enterprise problems, and evaluate the financial implications of corporate actions.

Finance majors usually work as financial planners who help their clients in managing finances. Others may end up as financial analysts who work in banks, insurance companies, and pension funds and help these institutions make sound investment decisions. It is also common for finance majors to work as accountants, credit analysts, commercial real estate agents, and stockbrokers.

Healthcare Administration

The demand for graduates of healthcare administration will likely continue expanding alongside the rising need for a responsive healthcare system. Many students are opting to get a degree in healthcare administration so they can get a job in this growing field.

Healthcare administration majors are trained to oversee the business aspect of healthcare-focused organizations and businesses. As healthcare administrators, they are generally tasked to carry out diverse roles such as budget management, staffing, facility management, admin work, supervision of employees, and operations oversight.

Graduates of healthcare administration may pursue different career paths. Some may attempt to climb the corporate ladder to become hospital department managers, hospital chief finance officers, and hospital chief executive officers. Others may work as administrators of clinics, dental and chiropractic offices.

Other jobs for healthcare administration majors may include government lobbyist, hospital marketing staff, healthcare staffing agency manager, and insurance contract negotiator.

Information Technology

Information technology (IT) majors are always in demand nearly anywhere in the world. Since most businesses and institutions rely on IT facilities for their day-to-day operations, the variety of employers for IT degree holders is vast.

In the public sectors, some of the employers of IT majors include the local and central governments, charities, and the media. In the private sector, IT degree holders may find employment in telecom companies, financial institutions, software houses, IT service providers, and IT consultancy firms.

IT graduates may end up working as software engineers, network architects, information security managers, database administrators, information security officers, and web developers.

IT graduates are often equipped with a wide range of specialized skills in areas like hardware and software development or programming, data mining, database systems and design, networking, computer security, mobile applications, emerging technologies, and system analysis, among others.

They are also known for their problem-solving skills, project management, planning, and organization experience – all valued by employers.

Management

Pursuing a management degree may give students a broad knowledge of marketing, finance, business, and economics that could make them highly coveted by employers. Management majors are also typically equipped with practical skills that can make them employable in various sectors or industries.

Most management graduates start with entry-level jobs such as sales representatives tasked to sell products or services directly to consumers, businesses, or other organizations. Others may work as management analysts who look for ways to improve the operational efficiency of an organization.

Eventually, management majors may climb the corporate ladder to become marketing managers who oversee a team developing strategies to maximize revenues for a company; sales managers who direct a company’s sales team; or general and operations managers.

There are other career options for management majors such as in retail management, where they can manage the day-to-day operations of a store. They may also pursue a career in human resource management, where they can help employees in developing their skills and harnessing their potential. Others become entrepreneurs.

Marketing

Marketing is that one degree covering the gamut of business, technology, communication, and social sciences. Marketing majors, therefore, often have a wide range of career options upon graduation.

Marketing students are expected to develop certain skills that can be useful once they enter the workforce. For example, marketing majors should have strong research skills so that they can assess the needs and wants of consumers. They should also have strong communication skills as well as leadership and teamwork skills.

Marketing majors may work as market researchers, marketing executives, advertising account executives, or advertising art directors. Others may work as digital marketers, media buyers, public relations officers, sales account executives, and social media managers.

A degree in marketing may also land a graduate a job in events management, education, and publishing. Although less common, marketing graduates may work in the promotions departments of firms in industries such as healthcare, pharmaceutical, energy, and utilities.

Nursing

Nursing remains one of the backbones of the healthcare industry. Nursing majors are always in demand, partly because of the growing need for healthcare services.

Nurses may perform numerous tasks such as taking vital signs, drawing blood, and assisting physicians. Theymay administer medications, perform wound care, and take care of newborns. They may also bring relief to patients suffering from acute illnesses and give comfort to the elderly. They may also help save lives in emergency rooms.

Nursing majors might end up working for private sector hospitals and clinics, healthcare providers, and voluntary organizations. They may also be found working in schools, the armed forces, and private sector organizations like nursing homes.

In some cases, nurses also find themselves working as teachers and guidance counselors in schools. Others may work as health service managers, play therapists, and social workers.

Public Administration

A degree in public administration typically offers a wide degree of career options. It may also appeal to young people who want to contribute to the welfare of their respective communities.

Public administration majors are trained to pursue a career in public service. Many degree holders desire the high level of job stability that government work offers. However, they may also pursue career options outside of the government realm.

Graduates of public administration may take on different jobs in the government service such as tax examiner, who ensure that the government receives tax money from citizens, organizations, and businesses.

They may also work as budget analysts whose main role is to find the most efficient way to manage funds and resources. Others may work as public administration consultants who assist in project research and implementation. A few are fortunate enough to be elected as city officials such as city mayor.

Psychology

Defined as the study of the human mind and behavior, psychology also presents a wide range of career opportunities for degree holders. Psychology majors are in demand in healthcare and therapy, education, and research.

Psychology majors who pursue further study and training may become qualified to be licensed psychologists who analyze the behavior and emotions of people of all backgrounds. This highly specialized work may also focus on areas ranging from sport and mental health to occupational psychology.

Others work as psychotherapists who help clients such as couples and families overcome psychological issues. Graduates of psychology may also work as a social worker or as a counselor.

Psychology majors may also pursue a career in education, working in either primary or secondary education. Additional teaching qualification is often required for psychology majors to enter a career in tertiary education.

Applying to a Master’s Degree Program

Different programs will tpyically have different prerequisites. In general, the minimum requirements for admission to any master’s program are the following:

• An official transcript from an accredited U.S. institution (or the equivalent from a foreign institution) where your baccalaureate was completed. Please see the admitting school’s website to determine whether or not they accept the accreditation of your institution.
• A minimum GPA (Grade Point Average) of 2.0 to 3.0 on the four-point scale, depending on the school’s admission policies, or some schools will allow acceptable scores on the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) tests.
• GRE and GMAT exams are often waived when certain minimum GPA requirements are met. This is a welcome relief to many who loathe standardized testing.
• The ability to speak, read and write in English if you earned your undergraduate degree from a foreign institution where the primary language of instruction was not English. You can also show an acceptable score on TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and be a citizen or legal resident of the United States.
• Some schools may require that students seeking credit for experience in the workforce submit a current resume, be employed for at least five years gaining professional experience, and have letters of recommendation.
• Schools may also bar applicants from the program if they have been expelled by another institution.

Accreditation – Looking Before You Leap

When you’re looking for an accelerated master’s degree program, you need to think about accreditation. According to U.S. News & World Report, this simple safeguard is something that a lot of students don’t do.

Some institutions are misleadingly named, or look at first like legitimate schools, but unless they’re accredited by an independent, recognized third-party, it’s better not to enroll.

A reputable college will have national accreditation from the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or regional accreditation from one of these boards:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Attending a university with proper accreditation ensures that your credits are eligible to transfer to other schools and employers will respect your degree.

Speeding Things Up for Undergraduate Students

Did you know that at certain schools, you don’t even need to have your cap and gown before starting your master’s degree? Frequently, your local university will allow junior and senior year students to “jump-start” their postgraduate education before having their baccalaureate degree formally conferred.

Even better, the coursework in the accelerated master’s degree program might count toward course hours required for your bachelor’s.

School requirements for course hours can vary, but such programs are often referred to as “4+1” or “five-year programs,” meaning that the four years for the average undergraduate degree are followed by a single year of graduate school instead of the traditional two or even three that might be required otherwise.

If you are an undergraduate student receiving financial aid in the form of a federal Pell grant or a Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, these are not offered to graduate students, so pursuing an accelerated master’s degree with these grants under your belt may help you out financially.

Financing Your Education

With student loans in the news, the last thing you want to do is to end up saddled with a large amount of debt that could negate the financial advantages of a graduate degree. All the time and effort you put into obtaining an accelerated master’s degree could be wiped out by huge payments and accruing interest over the principal of the loan.

Start by completing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online and getting in touch with the Financial Aid office at your school. Very often, there are grants and scholarships either institutionally or donor-funded that do not have to be repaid, or work/study programs at the school.

Private student loans should be closely scrutinized, and the terms should be discussed with someone who’s not with the institution originating the loan, so you can make sure you understand everything and that it agrees with the loan package that you were sold.

The loans for graduate students are called Stafford Loans and are either subsidized or unsubsidized.

The Benefits of Online Classes

Time is money, and nowadays, it seems as if none of us have enough of either. With so many institutions offering online masters programs, the stigma of “distance learning” is vanishing. A number of accredited universities and colleges offer online access to accelerated master’s degree programs, and the idea of online learning as the bastion of so-called diploma mills is falling, too.

Some students even take online courses when they are on campus. Why? Because it saves time, and when they’re in one course in the morning, they can go back to their dorm in the afternoon and take another course that, due to scheduling, they might not have been able to attend.

Even after graduating, establishing a career path, starting a family, or changing career tracks after a job loss, an accelerated master’s degree program may help keep you climbing the ladder. The advantages of returning students who have been out in the working world and can’t find the time or money to return to traditional, campus-based education are many.

You’re at work, or taking another class, or caring for a family member, but you can go to your computer and in a quiet hour or two attend your lecture, network with your workgroup, take tests, and hand in and receive your assignments. All this can be done from the comfort of home or another convenient location.

Other benefits may include:

• Saving money versus attending courses on campus
• No exhausting commute times or expenses
• Flexible class schedules
• Highly qualified instructors and professors
• The ability to network with other online students

Classes can be taken back-to-back or over a more extended schedule, allowing you to learn at your own pace, whether you’re going start-to-finish in 16 months or moving at a slower pace dictated by the needs of yourself and your family. Some universities even offer 5 week online college courses.

There’s also the confidence that comes from taking more advanced courses and going further in your field instead of just taking it as it comes.

Is a master’s degree worth it?

An accelerated master’s degree is often earned by hard work and effort and is something to be proud of. As you advance in your studies, you may feel it, too, and your employer might even see that increased confidence and respond to it. Taking control of your life and finding satisfaction in your career direction may start with the desire to change, so take the first step today.

The post 15 Best Accelerated Masters Programs Online [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.