Fastest Degrees – MyDegreeGuide.com https://www.mydegreeguide.com Sun, 07 Jan 2024 09:11:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.1 Top 40 Fast Online Degrees: Get Your Degree Quickly Online [2024 Programs Guide] https://www.mydegreeguide.com/fastest-degrees/fast-online-degrees/ Fri, 13 Jul 2018 20:23:24 +0000 https://www.mydegreeguide.com/?p=9957 We’ve identified 40 Fast Online Degrees for 2024. Explore fast college degrees & get your bachelor degree faster online from an accredited college. Want to get your bachelor’s degree online fast? This degree guide can help! With fast track classes, [...read more]

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We’ve identified 40 Fast Online Degrees for 2024. Explore fast college degrees & get your bachelor degree faster online from an accredited college.

fast online degrees accredited

Want to get your bachelor’s degree online fast? This degree guide can help! With fast track classes, you can finish your college degree quickly online. Campus-based degrees programs are usually 16-weeks long, but the fastest online degree programs have classes that are just 8 weeks long. That’s half the time!

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Why spend extra time sitting in class when you can get your bachelor’s degree faster online? Check out our fast degree program guide to see how you can finish your degree more quickly!

Fast Online Degrees & Quick Programs

These online degree programs offer 5 week, 6 week, or 8 week online classes:

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

Accounting Degrees Online

bachelors degree online fast

Every business needs an accounting team or at least a go-to accountant who can sort out the numbers and pay vendors on-time. For those who want to work with money and help companies spot opportunities and problems, an accounting degree could be the top online program for you.

Companies are always looking for individuals who can fastidiously analyze data and solve even the toughest financial challenges. With an online bachelor’s degree in accounting, you could quickly move into any graduate business degree, allowing you to become a successful CFO in the future.

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These degree programs involve classes in income taxation, auditing, ethics, data analysis, profit and loss, economics, regulatory laws, and many other degree courses around financial fundamentals.

In the end, you can easily set yourself up to pass the CPA exam and became a certified accountant or auditor. You’ll need at least 120 credit hours at an accredited university.

Online degree programs in accounting are best for those who have great time managerial skills and can easily work on problems on their own, but any accounting online program worth its salt will have collaboration and online meeting capabilities.

Business Degrees Online

business administration

Entrepreneurs, marketing majors, and soon-to-be business executives typically get their start with a business administration degree. Online baccalaureate degree programs in business administration challenge students to be analytical decision-makers who can turn problems around with creative solutions.

Online business programs are quickly becoming one of the most popular degree choices among students. In fact, 6 million American workers currently have an undergraduate degree in business.

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An online bachelor’s in business can help turn you into a business leader, whether you decide to get into business, marketing, manufacturing, hospitality, finance, or technology. It’s simply a versatile online degree that can help with multiple fields of study.

One major benefit of this online degree program is that students can keep their full-time job and quickly earn a degree that could bring an increase in salary with median earnings of $71,000 for those who hold a business degree.

Computer Science Degrees Online

cheap online degrees fast

For those who want to quickly get into a technology field, computer science online degree programs may be one of the best ways to go. Forbes actually reported that computer science graduates go on to make the most right out of college with an average of $59,000 per year.

In this fast, digital landscape, individuals with an online tech degree can work in a variety of fields, including web development, software engineering, information technology, or cybersecurity. In addition, technology jobs are in high demand, meaning that you will likely be able to find a job quickly depending on what you specialize in.

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The best online computer science degree programs allow you to pick tracks that are popular in today’s ravenous tech fields, such as web development, network security, network administration, cloud computing, database management, data analysis, and other web sciences.

Typical online computer science degree programs can be tailored to the programming language you want to learn or the skill that you’ll need to succeed in a particular field of technology, preparing you for graduate school or the workforce. It’s one of the best fast degrees online to go for if you want to work in technology and earn a high salary quickly.

Criminal Justice Degrees Online

Fast online bachelors degree program

When you study criminal justice, there are a world of opportunities in legal fields, law enforcement, psychology, and cybersecurity. Online degree programs are so diverse that many programs allow you to specialize in studies that quickly prep you for a number of in-demand careers after graduation.

Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing field that needs more people who understand technology, software, data analysis, and coding. If you have a slight love for computer science or information technology, this online degree can take you extremely far in law enforcement, including positions at the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.

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For those interested in these fast degrees online, you’ll be happy to note that the average salary after graduation is $58,000 with the highest paid earners being detectives and criminal investigators who make about $70,000 per year. Not too shabby when you can get your degree quickly online!

Education Online Degrees

Degree quickly

If you want to be a teacher, an elementary education degree is a great place to start, and it’s one of the top majors currently in-demand. In addition, those who earn this online degree are more than likely to become mentors, role models, and coaches for the next generation.

For those who love to motivate and teach others, this could be the right field for you, and it’s easy to earn this degree online quickly.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported fast growth with 250,000 new teaching jobs available by next year. Special education and English teachers are in high demand, as there is a particular shortage in this degree concentration.

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Online bachelor degree programs for education will usually provide courses to help you pass the certification exam to get your license. The best online degrees for education include programs that help with instruction planning, new technologies for the classroom, and theories on different learning styles.

Emergency Management Online Degrees

Fastest Degree Programs Online

Emergency management is often listed under a public administration degree. However, earning a bachelor’s degree in emergency management could be useful if you plan to work in government, community, or medical-related fields.

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Students earning fast degrees online in this field will learn project leadership, communication skills, social skills, civil rights and ethical leadership, hazard planning and preparedness, and human resources.

English Online Degrees

Fastest Online Bachelor Degree

While it may seem like a broad degree, online English degree programs allow you to explore literature, learn creative writing, study philosophy, and even learn about films and screenwriting.

There are so many ways to use an English degree professionally as well. It can even be a fast track into law school because English degrees require a great deal of writing.

Students who want to earn an English degree online can quickly go into a variety of fields. Some go into digital marketing because of their copywriting abilities and strategy skills, and others go into journalism or web content creation. You can become a teacher, a social media manager, a foreign language teacher, or even a novelist.

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What you do with your English degree is up to you, but it’s a great starting point for a master’s degree or law degree. Reports show that most English majors go on to earn degrees in education, law, and literature.

Since there are hundreds of online degrees out there, it’s important to pick one with official accreditation and course of study that will bring you success quickly after graduation.

Environmental Policy Online Degrees

Accredited Environmental Bachelor

Environmental policy degrees focus on the relationship between private and public agencies involving protecting society and the environment.

Quick online degrees in this field have courses related to sustainability and facing environmental challenges. These degree programs typically require 120 credits depending on the university and the specialization that you select.

Online environmental policy degrees prepare you for research and leadership positions, where you’ll be required to know methods and tools related to analyzing information and data. You’ll also learn theories, principles, and concepts related to environmental leadership, policy, and global disasters.

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Careers in this field typically place students in environmental protection positions or other scientific fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), environmental policymakers are in demand, and there are almost 90,000 jobs available in this field.

The average pay for those in this field goes up to $71,000. Most undergraduates will need to get into a master’s degree program in environmental science or environmental law.

Finance Degrees Online

Accredited colleges

Every business needs those who are skilled in finance, including accountants, planners, analysts, and managers. Online finance degree programs give you some leeway in specializing for the career you want, but all business degree students learn the same basic business core curriculum before specializing in a given field.

Coursework for these fast online degrees takes students through accounting courses, investments, financial planning, corporate finance, business analysis, and related accounting tools, such as Microsoft Excel.

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The top graduates in these degree programs can go into incredibly lucrative careers, and if you earn an MBA, you could even become an executive or CFO. When choosing an online degree in the finance field, you should pick a university that has ties to a great business college so that you can access award-winning professors and coursework.

Fire Science Degrees Online

Fire Science

Firefighters go into fire science online degrees to jump into higher positions and earn larger salaries. A bachelor’s degree in fire science allows you to learn about emergency management, hazard detection, and coordinated response.

If you enroll in this program, you’ll also be learning about the new technology related to fire prevention and suppression. Firefighters work closely with law enforcement, so you’ll have courses in legal studies and investigation as well.

The main coursework in this fast degree program pertains to emergency service response. Graduates are able to go into fire inspection and firefighting with a fire science degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) also projects that this job rate will continue to grow.

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If you are interested in working in the public sector and want to help law enforcement, firefighting and investigation are great ways to go.

You’ll be able to earn an average salary of $50,000, but you can earn more as a fire inspector or fire investigator. There are also specializations in forest fire management and emergency medical technicians, or paramedics.

Forensics / CSI Degrees Online

Forensics CSI

Have you ever wanted to work a crime scene? Do you like working on puzzles? Do you have an analytical personality? Working in forensics and crime scene investigation may be the right path for you. This bachelor of science degree in forensics can also take you into cybersecurity and network defense as well, depending on your specialization.

Lab technicians who earn this online degree can earn around $56,000 a year at first, but as you grow and gain experience, the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that you could earn up to $75,000 a year.

Along with your coursework in crime science investigation, forensics, ballistics, chemistry, and criminal justice, degree courses may also take you through cyber-criminal cases, psychology, and legal studies.

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For those who want to use their forensics degree to go into CSI or law enforcement, it’s important to maintain a high GPA and get certified upon graduation, which may require additional coursework and a master’s degree in criminal justice. Many jobs related to cybersecurity and hacking are also in demand.

Health Science Degrees Online

Health Science

Online health science degrees are perfect for those who want a career in the healthcare field.

While you can use your bachelor degree to get ahead in both clinical and non-clinical settings, most bachelor degree earners go on to master’s programs for occupational therapy, chiropractor studies, healthcare informatics, athletics, nursing, and other healthcare roles.

Since the rise of technology, many health sciences degrees have popped up with tracks that can take you into becoming a surgical technician or a paramedic, but the most popular is occupational therapy, physical therapy, and radiation therapy.

These are specialized fields that may require additional study and certification after earning your bachelor degree.

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Jobs have increased quickly in this field as more therapists and administrators are needed to meet growing demand. In the medical and health service managerial role, graduates can earn up to $96,000 a year, but occupational therapists often find their jobs more rewarding and make an average of $80,000 per year.

Healthcare Administration Degrees Online

Healthcare Administration

The medical field has always needed skilled doctors and nurses to take care of patients, but there are a number of jobs available for administrators and managers in healthcare. With new technology, the field has expanded even more requiring new specialists and skills for the latest medical advancements.

Health Administration online degrees are for those who want to work in the medical field on the business side. You may work in hospitals, clinics, rehab centers, nursing homes, and other medical locations.

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These fast degrees walk students through accounting, leadership positions, finance, economics, and ethics. You may also take courses related to laws and liability handling for hospitals.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 70,000 new jobs would be available in the next ten years. Most entry-level healthcare administrators earn around $40,000, but your salary increases after a few years.

Human Services Degrees Online

Human Services

Online human service degrees mainly center around social work and community services, such as administrative roles and criminal justice positions.

Social work is one of the 10 majors that can help change the world, and many in this field take on these roles because they want to make the world better. The curriculum focuses on ethics, research, and theory.

Students are able to specialize in social and community advocacy, including global health services, public health needs, criminal justice, intervention, and family guidance.

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These fast online degree programs also can be used to go into many other fields of study at the graduate level, including healthcare, psychology, political leadership, education, and law.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be an increase in the next 10 years for jobs in social work. These services are also necessary to help the aging population in America, as well as a new rise in drug addiction treatment needs.

The average salary for human service graduates ranges from $33,000 to start up to $82,000 for administrators in medical offices and nursing homes.

Information Technology Degrees Online

Information Technology

The IT field is quickly expanding. While it used to be a role for network administrators and computer engineers, it now includes web developers and even web designers.

The information technology field is quite broad, so it’s important to pick a specific online degree that is perfect for your interests. For example, if you’re interested in programming, then you would want to select software development or a programming specialization.

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You can also go into a STEM field rather quickly using an information technology degree. The most popular jobs include network and computer systems administrators, computer network specialists, data analysts, database administrators, and cybersecurity specialists.

The average salary for someone in IT is $80,000 per year. While tech jobs are expected to grow fast, you should pay close attention to new technologies and look for internships that help you learn in real situations, too. A growing number of universities are offering the fastest online degrees in the IT field, too.

Paralegal Studies

Online legal studies degrees can help you get into a number of different legal fields, depending on the track and specialization that you choose. For example, there are paralegals and criminal justice majors who tailor their legal studies program towards their careers.

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Fast degrees in legal studies typically require 120 credits with your core curriculum comprising of different government studies, policies, cases, ethics, torts, and business laws. Most law schools look for excellent marks in your undergraduate degree studies, so if you’ve got your eye on law school, it’s important to keep your GPA over 3.0.

Liberal Arts Degrees Online

Liberal Arts

For those who want to go into political science, teaching, psychology, and other scientific studies, liberal arts degrees may be a good option. Students with a wide variety of interests can excel in an online liberal arts program. It allows you to study art, philosophy, theory, history, literature, and more.

Students can use their online degree fast to go into an administrative position, but typically, students will need to complete a master’s or certificate program to get into a better position with a good salary.

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Much of the courses in liberal arts degrees revolve around writing fiction, studying different cultures, sociology, anthropology, and arts-based courses. While all programs are different, you can expect to take 120 credits in these courses. So, finding a university with the fastest online degrees can help you finish college more quickly.

Management Degrees Online

Quick online degrees

Want to get ahead fast in your current position? Business management degrees focus on building your leadership and improving your skills in communication, as well as project management and human resources.

There are a number of managerial degrees, so it’s important to pick the one that will take you to the career you want fast. For example, you can use this degree to become a department manager, operations analyst, sales manager, and so forth.

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Most of these programs require 120 credits and take you through business law, marketing, project leadership, employment law, and international business coursework.

Marketing Degrees Online

Marketing

Online marketing programs combine creative writing, sociology, theory, public relations, social media strategy, communications, and business in a rather unique way. New technology is also helping marketers use digital tools to create incredible opportunities for advertising.

While marketing majors have to be strategic and creative, many of these fast degrees revolve around communications. Being an effective speaker is important to pursue a position in marketing or public relations.

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Many schools offering this degree focus on communities, philosophy, business strategy, digital marketing technology, marketing development, and economics as well as business laws regarding infringement. Fast degree programs are rigorous, but can pay off in the end.

The top online programs in marketing will set you up to work in the business field as a digital marketing manager, marketing executive, digital strategist, marketing analyst, advertising specialist, or copywriting for marketing. Marketers typically start out earning $40,000 a year, but the highest earners are over $100,000 per year.

Nursing Degrees Online

RN to BSN

For those who want to take your current RN credential to the next level, an RN to BSN might be a good choice. Fast college degrees can be rigorous and difficult for those who are not a fan of chemistry, anatomy, biology, and other sciences, but it’s worth it if you want to advance in the medical field.

In addition, new technology in nursing has made it necessary for new courses and specializations, which could increase your salary potential. Health care delivery platforms and other data analysis are also going to be important to help medical offices and hospitals use new technology correctly.

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If you want to get into a higher managerial position or even become a director, then earnings are around $75,000 a year.

Nutrition Degrees Online

nutritionist

Nutrition degrees help students learn about different diets and human health problems related to what they eat.

Most nutritionists take courses in food science, human anatomy, and other medical courses related to human diseases such as obesity. There are a number of careers in this field, but most graduates will go on to careers as dietitians.

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Students will take fast courses in nutrition science, human biology, physiology, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. The highest paid earners pursue master’s degrees or medical degrees as well.

Psychology Degrees Online

psychology

Psychology degree programs provide students with a knowledge of sociology, anthropology, cultural studies, and psychology theories. Students will understand different neuropsychology theories, developmental psychology, and behavioral sciences.

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These fast degree programs are mainly designed to prepare you for graduate psychology programs or medical school. Other options include going into criminal justice fields, social work, or counseling.

Public Administration Degrees Online

Public Administration

A public administration degree may be a great choice for those who want to go into policymaking, political leadership, city management, and human resources.

Fast degrees online in public administration teach students to help people in various professional situations as a leader and manager. Policy analysis, ethical leadership, ethics, and legal studies help these graduates work in government positions at local, state, and the federal government.

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For these programs, you’ll be expected to take coursework in policy, community development, ethics of public service, administrative law, finance, and project leadership.

Fast online degrees in public administration prepare you for nonprofit, business, and human resources. Your specialization depends on the track and courses you select. It’s important that you have organizational skills, excellent communication, and a desire for legal knowledge to be successful.

Are fast online degrees accredited?

Yes, fast online degrees are offered by accredited colleges and universities in a wide range of fields.

Regional accreditation is the gold standard of accreditation:

When you attend a regionally accredited college, you will be eligible for Federal financial aid and the credits you earn will transfer to other regionally accredited universities.

Are there any 6 month bachelor degrees online?

No, there are no 6 month bachelor degrees online, but you can earn your bachelor’s degree faster if you pick the right college.

Although you may not be able to find any 6 month degree programs online, that doesn’t mean it’ll take you 4 years to get your bachelor’s degree online.

  1. Over 2,000 universities will allow you to test out of some of your degree requirements
  2. Some colleges help you finish your online degree faster by giving you college credit for your experience
  3. Dozens of online schools now offer fast online courses so you can finish your degree quickly online.

Together, these three strategies can help you finish your bachelor’s degree fast, even if it’s not as quick as the 6 month bachelor degree you were hoping to find online.

Can you get a bachelor degree in 12 months online?

There aren’t any accredited colleges promising that you can quickly get your bachelor degree in 12 months, but that doesn’t mean you have to take 4 years to finish your online degree either.

If you have existing college credits, you can transfer them to a university that offers fast online classes (generally 8 weeks or less). You can also apply to get college credit for your work, military, or life experience that meets the university’s standards.

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Not all online schools offer this faster degree option, but a growing number do through a program generally referred to as credit for prior learning.

Finally, you can get a lot closer to the 12 month bachelor degree you were hoping for if you take CLEP exams, accepted by over 2,000 universities nationwide. These are low-cost, multiple choice exams that award college credit.

This can help you get college credit for a course without actually having to take it. This is a great time-saver when you are looking for fast college degrees so you can finish your degree quickly online.

Can you get a bachelor degree in 18 months online?

You may be able to get a bachelor degree in 18 months if you select an accredited college offering online fast classes (8 weeks), college credit for experience, and credit via multiple choice exam.

If you put these three strategies together along with any existing college credits, you may be able to finish your online bachelor degree in 18 months.

Here are some things that typically help move the needle faster:

  • You have significant, relevant work experience
  • You hold certain licenses or certifications
  • You have documented job training
  • You served in the military
  • You have existing college credits
  • You have the ability to maintain a full-time online course load

Obviously, we all have unique backgrounds and experiences, so whether or not you can complete your online bachelor degree in 18 months is going to depend largely on your background and the university you select. But the fastest online programs give you the flexibility to earn more credit hours quickly.

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To get your degree online fast, look for an online college that offers credit for prior learning assessment, accepts CLEP exams for credit, has generous transfer credit policies, and offers 5 week, 6 week, or 8 week online classes.

Are there any accelerated online colleges with 1 year degree programs?

accelerated 1 year degree programs

There aren’t any colleges promising 1 year degree programs, but that doesn’t mean you can’t finish your degree in one year. To finish your bachelor degree in one year, you will need to select a university that offers fast online courses (8 weeks or less), offers credit for experience, has generous transfer credit policies, and accepts CLEP exams for credit.

Main factors impacting your ability to complete your bachelor degree in one year:

  • Fast classes – only select a college that has 8 week online classes (or less)
  • CLEP exams – look for a school that allows you to get 30 college credits or more via CLEP exams
  • Credit for prior learning – only select a school that will consider your work & life experience for possible college credits
  • Degree plan – Look for a major that has lots of open electives and no labs (if possible)
  • Do not opt for a minor – There’s no need to make your degree harder by adding a minor to your degree
  • Transfer credits – submit every college class you’ve ever taken to your target school as possible transfer credits

Obviously, there are a lot of factors to consider when you are looking for a bachelor degree in one year online. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible either. One year degrees are doable, but you have to do it yourself.

Open up a spreadsheet, list every course, see what you can test out of with CLEP exams, see what life, work, or military experience you have that might help you get more credits toward your degree.

Quick Degree FAQ: What is the average cost of the fastest online degree?

According to a recent U.S. News Report, the average cost of tuition for an online college program is $305 per credit hour for in-state students. Since most fast online bachelor degrees are 120 college credits, the tuition cost for an in-state student is $36,600 for the entire four year college degree.

To help offset the cost of tuition, the best colleges and universities have a number of financial aid programs to help students make their education more affordable.

Both traditional students and adult learners can take advantage of transfer credit policies, flexible degree completion programs, fast track exams, CLEP exams, scholarships, grants, and flexible payment plans to help reduce the cost of education.

Are there any cheap online degrees fast that are accredited?

As long as you select a university that is regionally accredited, you can be assured that your bachelor’s degree will legitimate and high quality.

The cost of an online degree varies depending on the type of university and your physical location. Some universities offer the same tuition rate for in-state or out of state students, but that is not always the case. You can also save money on tuition costs by testing out of college classes and taking advantage of credit for prior learning assessment opportunities.

How fast is an accelerated bachelor’s online degree?

How fast can you get a bachelor’s degree? How fast you can complete an accelerated bachelor’s degree depends on your background and experience, but it can be as fast as one year or as long as four years if you aren’t in a hurry.

The fastest accelerated bachelor’s degree programs are those that allow you to take fast track classes, test out of courses with CLEP exams, and submit a credit for prior learning portfolio for assessment.

Although it’s not a must, it’s also helpful if you have prior college credits to transfer into your degree plan as this will speed things up considerably.

What is the easiest online degree to get quickly?

The easiest degree to get online depends on what you consider to be easy. Since easy is a subject term, we wrote an entire article about the easiest degrees based on the average GPA of students majoring in those subjects.

If you want to check out that article, you can see it here: Easy College Majors.

Colleges Offering Fast Degree Courses

The following accredited online colleges offer fast online degree programs with courses ranging from 5 weeks to 8 weeks long. By using a combination of fast online courses, credit for prior learning, and credit by exam, you can earn your degree more quickly and spend less time sitting in class. The following rankings are listed in alphabetical order.

American Intercontinental University

American Intercontinental University campus

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online Courses

Degree Program Accreditation

AIU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

Brenau University

Brenau University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

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

Cameron University

cameron university campus

Bachelor’s Accelerated Degree – Online Courses

Online Degree Accreditation

Cameron University is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission.

Central Texas College

Central Texas College campus

Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree

Online Degree Accreditation

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

College of DuPage

College of DuPage campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

The College of DuPage is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

College of Southern Nevada

College of Southern Nevada campus

Fast Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

The College of Southern Nevada has been continuously accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) since 1975.

Colorado State University

Colorado State University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Tech University

Colorado Technical University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

CTU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Columbia College

Columbia College campus

Quick Online Classes (8 weeks): Bachelor’s

Accreditation

Columbia College has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1918.

Davenport University

Davenport University campus

Fast Online Classes: Bachelor’s Degrees

Accreditation

Davenport is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Elizabethtown College

Elizabethtown College campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

Elizabethtown College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Excelsior College

Excelsior College campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Franklin University

Franklin University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Granite State College

Granite State College campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online Quickly With Fast Classes

Accreditation

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

Indiana Technical University

Indiana Technical University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

Indiana Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University campus

Bachelor’s Degree – Fast Online Courses

Accreditation

IWU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Keiser University

Keiser University campus

Bachelor’s Degrees Online

Accreditation

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

LeTourneau University

LeTourneau University campus

Bachelor’s Degrees Online

Accreditation

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

Liberty University

Liberty University campus

Bachelor’s Degrees Online

Accreditation

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

Lynn University

Lynn University campus

Online Degree – Bachelor’s

Accreditation

Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Mount Olive College

University of Mount Olive campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

New York Institute of Technology

New York Institute of Technology campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

North Carolina Wesleyan College

North Carolina Wesleyan College campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Park University
Parker University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Online Degrees

Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Peirce College

Peirce College campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Post University

Post University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Purdue University

Purdue University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

Purdue has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC-NCA) since 1913.

Regent University

Regent University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Regis University

Regis University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

Regis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accreditation

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

Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

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

Troy University

Troy University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

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

University of Houston – Downtown

University of Houston Downtown campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

University of Houston -Downtown is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Maine at Augusta

University of Maine Augusta campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

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

University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

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

University of Massachusetts – Global

University of Massachusetts - Global campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.

Upper Iowa University

Upper Iowa University campus

Bachelor’s Degree Online

Degree Program Accreditation

UIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University

Walden University campus

Degree Program Accreditation

Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Finish faster!

accelerated degree online classes

If your primary goal is to finish your degree quickly online, here are a few tips to help you reach your goal:

  • Select a college that offers fast online classes (8 weeks or less)
  • Make sure that college also offers credit for prior learning assessments
  • Choose a fast online degree plan that has more electives (if possible)
  • Test out of as many college classes as your online school allows (usually 5 to 10 classes are allowed)
  • Don’t forget to submit any prior college courses for transfer credit

Fast online degrees from accredited colleges can help you save money on tuition while also saving you time so you can finish college faster! The fastest online degree programs generally allow you to quickly enroll and start courses immediately. Whether you’re seeking acceptance into an associate degree, master’s, PhD, or other doctoral program, accelerated classes and self-paced bachelor’s degrees can help you reach your goals more quickly.

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How to Finish College Faster [2024 Ultimate Guide] https://www.mydegreeguide.com/fastest-degrees/how-to-finish-college-faster/ Tue, 10 Jul 2018 12:21:37 +0000 https://www.mydegreeguide.com/?p=9921 Spending years going to college classes to earn your degree is pretty standard, but what if I told you that there are ways you can finish your degree in less time? There’s no doubt that college is expensive, and scheduling [...read more]

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Spending years going to college classes to earn your degree is pretty standard, but what if I told you that there are ways you can finish your degree in less time?

How to finish college faster

There’s no doubt that college is expensive, and scheduling classes around an already busy life can be overwhelming. By thinking outside the box and putting in a little extra effort, I will show you how earning your college degree faster is completely doable.

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If you are struggling with the daunting reality of spending hours in a classroom for the next several years, save yourself some drama and spend a few minutes exploring better options.

The little known secrets I’m going to share with you in this article are a good place to start…

1.  Take fast-track online classes

fast track online courses

Back in the day, we had to sit in class for 16 weeks. Not anymore.

Now, you can take 8 week online classes from a number of accredited universities.

Without sacrificing quality… or accreditation!

More and more universities have started offering accelerated classes online. Semesters usually range from 6 weeks to 8 weeks long.

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You can see a list of colleges offering fast-track classes in our accelerated online classes guide.

2. Credit for Prior Learning Portfolio

Man finishing college faster

If you’ve had work experiences or other training that coincides with the instruction you’d get in the classroom, you may be able to earn college credit for it. We all know that education doesn’t always have to take place in a classroom, and I found that out first hand when pursuing my degree.

After working for 12 years at IBM, I was able to present this documented experience to my college and ended up receiving credit for three entry-level computer science classes and one information technology class!

So, how can you turn your work or military experience into college credit?

Many colleges around the country accept up to a certain number of credits for experience through what is called a credit for prior learning portfolio. In this portfolio, you will submit documentation that shows how your various experiences match up with the topics being taught in the courses for which you are desiring credit.

Here’s a list of universities that award college credit for prior learning.

Every school has different requirements and fees associated with submitting a prior learning portfolio, so be sure that you thoroughly understand their policies before diving in!

3. Competency Based Degrees

College fast techniques

If you want complete control of your degree, Western Governor’s University is a unique option allowing you to set your own pace for a truly individualized program.

  • Private, nonprofit university
  • Allows you to earn your degree by passing a series of competency-based assessments
  • The faster you progress through your program, the lower the cost
  • 76% of students receive some form of financial aid or scholarships

For the complete scoop, check this out: Set Your Own Pace with WGU’s Competency-Based Degrees

WGU is regionally accredited, the gold-standard for accreditation.

4. College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Credit

Graduate college faster with clep exams

“Testing out” of college classes may seem too good to be true, but thousands of schools across the country accept recognized examinations as a way for you to earn credit for college courses. The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is one of the most widely accepted of these exams.

Here are some fast facts about the CLEP to help you get started:

  • Over 2,900 colleges grant credit for successfully completed CLEP exams
  • There are more than 1,800 testing centers around the country
  • CLEP offers 33 different exams that cover a broad range of topics, including literature, mathematics, and science
  • Each 90 minute test costs $85

Every college has different policies for the number of credits by examination that they will accept, so be sure that you check in with your advisor before proceeding with the CLEP. As a general rule of thumb, most colleges limit credit by exam to 15 credit hours – which is typically about five college classes.

My college accepted up to 15 credit hours and I took advantage of every single credit!

5. DSST Credit

DSST exams

Formerly known as the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests, the DSST is another examination program that allows you to pass tests on a variety of subjects to earn college credit. Like the CLEP, this exam program is widely accepted, and more than 1,900 colleges and universities accept DSST credit.

When taking a DSST exam, you will be given two hours to answer 100 questions, and testing centers are located across the country. The exams start at $80, however, there may be additional fees from the testing center. If you are a military member, the DSST offers free, first-attempt testing at military bases and institutions across the United States!

6. Excelsior College Exams (ECE)

Excelsior Credit for Exams

The Excelsior College Exams are another testing option if you are looking to get some credits for prior learning in order to accelerate your degree program. This testing program has more options for exams, but it is not as widely accepted as the DSST or CLEP. Be sure to check with your school before registering for this exam to see if they accept ECE for credit!

With more than 50 different tests available, there are many options to put your prior knowledge to work in order to save time and money on your college tuition. Testing categories include Business, Humanities, Natural Science, and History. This exam will cost you a bit more than some of the other options at $110, but they do offer payment plans and combination packages to help make the process more affordable.

7. AP Credit

Graduate faster with AP exams

Getting your degree on the fast-track with Advanced Placement exams can be a great option if you’re willing to put in some extra effort. Typically, if you earn a score of three or higher on your AP exam, you can receive credit towards your college classes or advanced placement in your degree program.

Nearly all higher education institutions in the U.S. accept AP credit, but not every school allows both credit and advanced placement – you will likely get one or the other. You’ll want to check with your school’s admissions team to determine what their specific policies are, but either way, you will be saving time and money on your degree by advancing more quickly through your program.

8. Challenge Exams

University challenge exams for college credit

If you are looking though the course descriptions for your upcoming classes and realize that you already know the material being taught, it is worth asking if your school offers Challenge Exams! These exams are offered by individual colleges, and they are similar in layout to final exams for the specific courses.

While these may seem similar to CLEP, DSST, or other nationwide exam programs, there are some distinct differences. Some schools will not allow Challenge Exams to be taken if an equivalent CLEP or DSST exam is already available. Additionally, there may be other regulations, such as only being able to take the exam one time, outlined by your school policies.

Most universities outline their challenge exam policies in their academic catalog (generally, in the same section where you will find info regarding CLEP and DSST acceptance and limitations).

9. Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)

MOOCS college credit

Technology is constantly evolving, and the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) program is a great example of how improved technology can ultimately benefit college students. Standard MOOCs offer free, open enrollment access to college level courses for anyone who is interested – the typical drawback to this was the lack of ability to use completed courses as transfer credits for college. Times are changing though, and many schools are starting to jump on board with MOOC-style offerings!

Select schools around the country are now starting MOOC programs through edX.org in which students can take courses at a significantly reduced rate and apply them to their degree program. While some MOOC courses may be offered for free, earning credit requires you to pay a fee to the college, which is usually cheaper than taking traditional courses. It’s important to do your research into the fee structure of your school when deciding if this is a good route for you.

10. Military Training Programs

College credit for military training

Are you a veteran who wants to advance their education? Did you know that your military training could be used as college credit to advance your degree program? Well, it’s true! And there are several options available if you are a veteran or active service member that wants to turn your specialized training into credit towards a degree.

Three of the most common options to get credit for military training include:

  • Joint Services Transcript: This official record of your training is approved for credit by the American Council on Education and can be submitted to your school of choice.
  • Credit by Examination: There are several exam programs you can explore to “test out” of certain classes. The DSST is even fully funded for military members!
  • Prior Learning Assessment: By using supporting documents, achievements, and certifications, you can present a portfolio to your school that demonstrates your knowledge in a subject area.

Every school has different policies for accepting credit for military training, and some schools only transfer credit to electives instead of degree-specific courses. To avoid any issues, just check with your school beforehand to get a thorough understanding of their policies.

11. Dual Credit

If you are a high school student who wants to get a head-start on college, the options may seem limited, but dual credit can be great way to get a leg-up on your future degree program. Dual credit programs allow high schoolers to take college credit classes before they graduate. This means that the credit you earn goes towards both your high school requirements and future college credit!

These dual credit courses are real college classes, and they will appear on a transcript when you apply to begin your undergraduate degree. They are also much cheaper than taking classes outside of high school, and you could save more than 95% on the cost of your tuition for the course without even leaving your school!

12. International Baccalaureate (IB)

Like the AP program, the International Baccalaureate is a way for high school students to complete college level courses before they graduate high school. If you are a driven high school student, this is an excellent option to look into to get a jumpstart on your education! There are several different IB programs available, and in the Diploma program, students in their junior or senior year of high school can take a series of courses and assessments that allow them to earn a diploma recognized at colleges around the world.

Whether you choose to take AP classes or commit to the IB program is a personal decision, and in many cases, it is advantageous to do a combination of both. Since IB is an international program, be sure to do your research beforehand to see if your school is one of the participating institutions.

13. ACE Credit Recommendations

ACE credit recommendation service

Many of the options available for speeding up your college education involve getting credit for previous college courses and learning experiences, and the American Council on Education (ACE) is the gold standard for deciding what can be accepted as college credit. The review team for the ACE is made up of subject matter experts that evaluate what experiences can or cannot be substituted for classes that you would be required to take in your degree program.

The ACE offers academic credit recommendations that have the following benefits:

  • 35,000 courses, exams, and certifications across more than 600 organizations
  • Acceptance at over 2,000 college and universities
  • Military options for veterans and active service members

The process of obtaining ACE credit is fairly straightforward. If you’ve successfully completed a course, exam, or certification that comes with an ACE credit recommendation, you can get an official transcript to submit to your school for credit. If you want to see if your courses or organization has been reviewed for ACE Credit, just use the search links on the ACE website.

Make it happen!

finish college faster

If you want to earn a degree without spending years dragging yourself to college classes, there are several options to get on the fast-track to graduation. With a bit of research and determination, you can turn your prior knowledge and experience into verifiable college credit that gives you the opportunity to earn your degree in less time than you may think!

Have you found creative ways to earn college credit in less time? How did you do it?

The post How to Finish College Faster [2024 Ultimate Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

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How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree Fast Online [2024 Guide] https://www.mydegreeguide.com/fastest-degrees/how-to-get-a-bachelors-degree-fast/ Wed, 28 Jun 2017 16:45:59 +0000 https://www.mydegreeguide.com/?p=9467 Wondering how to get a bachelor’s degree fast online? In this guide, we will give you some insider secrets showing you the fastest way to get a degree online, like getting credit for job training or military experience. You can [...read more]

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Wondering how to get a bachelor’s degree fast online?

Student running to finish line

In this guide, we will give you some insider secrets showing you the fastest way to get a degree online, like getting credit for job training or military experience. You can even take a few multiple choice exams to get college credits fast (accepted by 2,000+ accredited universities nationwide).

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Have you found yourself saying, I need a degree fast? This guide can help!

Fast Bachelor’s Degrees

Accelerated 8-week online classes can help you finish your degree at a faster pace.

Jump to the degree program that interests you most:

Can you get a bachelor’s degree online in these and nearly any other field of study? Before you decide, it is helpful to think about what you might study, what you could do when you graduate, and what type of person does best in each area.

Accounting

Accountant giving report

A college degree in Accounting concentrates on financial bookkeeping for individuals, businesses, freelancers, governments, and other organizations. If you are getting an Accounting degree, you can specialize in public accounting, corporate accounting, tax counting, or another area.

This career path prepares you to advise, manage, and consult any type of business or a person who runs a business. If you are a person who likes stuff like fiscal responsibility or operational clarity, then an accounting career is the best choice for you.

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In this degree path, you will learn auditing, business ethics, mathematics, business law, and microeconomics. After you are finished with your learning, you can get a job as a loan officer, budget analyst, personal or business financial advisor, or statistician, among others.

Anthropology

anthropologists preserving and restoring temples

Anthropology is an intellectually exciting field that encompasses the study of history, linguistics, and cultural mores from diverse groups of people. This emphasis on fostering a deeper understanding of each group’s roots creates fertile soil for understanding diversity.

In this day and age, this is fundamental knowledge for anyone who seeks to create new solutions for creating more egalitarian societies.

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Anthropology graduates can find numerous job opportunities in academia and government organizations, in addition to cultural outreach programs and international relations.

Business Administration

Business professionals meeting together

One of the best things about earning a college degree in Business Administration is the wide career opportunities you‘ll enjoy. Business Administration can offer you foundational skills, like communication and decision-making, accountancy and human resources.

Besides, career opportunities in Business Administration are growing because people keep opening businesses or organizations. If you are a person who is looking for a way to grow, a college degree in Business Administration is a perfect opportunity for you.

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After getting your Business Administration degree in college, you can get a job in management or other specialized roled in small or large companies.

Communications

marketing team working on a project

Communication is a daily part of life and one that is essential for human societies and relationships to form and develop. Despite the fact that communications are everywhere, true mastery of communications is equally rare and powerful.

By graduating from a Communications program, a student will become capable of disseminating (explicitly or subtly) large amounts of information to the society at large.

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In this technical and globalized world, Communications can open many opportunities in social media management, design, marketing, public relations, and journalism.

Computer Science

Computer programmer sitting at desk

A college degree in computer science develops the skills required to develop, design, and test computers and their systems. You can work as a financial technician, program in different computer languages, create video game designs, or be an electronic music engineer.

Your computer science courses will include application programming, information systems management, web development, and network fundamentals.

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After finishing your college degree in Computer Science, you will have the doors open to a wide range of opportunities in the working world.

Criminal Justice

lawyer talking to his client

A full course of studies in Criminal Justice will be devoted to the study of both theoretical legal principles and the practical effects that these have on society – both when they are being respected, and when they are not.

The development of legal systems and the way they impact modern society is also placed under the spotlight, as are the applications of justice that are used to correct large-scale social ills.

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A degree in Criminal Justice can lead to careers in law enforcement agencies, public policy agencies, or as a starting step toward Law School.

Education

Teacher with children in classroom

A degree in Education prepares people to teach in a variety of ways. Depending on your interests and career goals, you can choose from different kinds of concentrations in education. Think about the age of your future students and a subject that you want to teach because this could impact your career opportunities.

When you graduate, you could get a job as a public school teacher, a librarian, or any other important position in the education field. Courses will include child psychology and development, education technology, theories of learning, and much more.

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As noted before, you have a lot of different options after a college degree in education. Your area of specialization and the level that you choose to teach will also impact your earning potential.

Finance

businessmen talking to close a deal

As money makes the world go round, a degree in Finance provides an efficient way to access the organizations that move the hidden gears of our society. In addition to providing a thorough knowledge of the financial instruments that lie hidden from public view, a degree in Finance offers a solid foundation in micro- and macro-economics.

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At the bachelor’s level, a degree in Finance offers the opportunity for pursuing further certifications and licensure as a financial advisor, real estate agent, or stock trader.

General Studies

team leader discussing during a meeting

A Bachelor of General Studies is often confused with the stereotypical “undecided” or “undeclared” major in many American Universities. The concept of General Studies and of multidisciplinary degrees, however, has a long and proud history on the Old Continent.

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Thanks to its relative flexibility and the possibility of designing ad-hoc concentrations, completing a program in General Studies is seen as proof that a person can be taught, and therefore can be nurtured into a leader across a variety of fields.

Healthcare Management

Healthcare manager speaking with physician

A college degree in Healthcare Management opens you up for a strong career path after. You will learn not only about anatomy and psychology but also about business management, gain computer skills, and develop a strategic mindset.

After finishing your degree, you can get a job in a hospital, doctor’s office, or various laboratories (both public and private sectors). It is your choice whether you want to work “behind the scenes” or play a visible role, as this college degree will prepare you to work in finance, human resources, or healthcare administration.

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This is a growing field that offers rewarding work as you help medical practices treat patients as professionally as possible.

Human Resources

company's human resource persons interviewing a job applicant

For companies all across the world, human resources are actually the hardest to recruit, manage, and preserve. A Human Resources graduate is a specialist who combines the knowledge of management tactics, leadership, and revenue-oriented organizations with a keen eye for talent and for people’s motivations.

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This combination of psychology, sociology, and business management is highly sought-after by all sorts of companies, at both the bachelor’s and master’s level.

Information Technology

information technology student

If you are looking for a stable and profitable career, then you can choose a college degree in Information Technology. Nowadays, there are many places where you can work as an IT specialist and earn a salary of up to $200,000.

You can work in hospitals, large corporations, or retail as a software developer, network architect, computer programmer, or web developer.

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Before choosing the right college to get a degree in Information Technology, you need to consider the size of the college, tuition fees, location, and online options. A college degree in information technology usually takes up to 4 years to finish. After that, you can enjoy a great career providing cutting edge solutions.

Attorney speaking with legal assistant

This college degree is most suitable for those who are looking for careers in law and enforcement or criminal justice. Also, you can study social science, political science, sociology, anthropology, and economics.

Those who have completed a college degree in Legal Studies can work as paralegals, legal assistants, court reporters, and legal secretaries. Pre-law or legal studies prepare students for a range of careers both outside and inside the legal profession.

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You could go on to work for a lawyer (or be a lawyer after further education) or work for the court system. If you enjoy law and the criminal justice system, this could be a very interesting profession for you.

Liberal Arts

colleagues discussing terms of a project

The days in which the Liberal Arts were the core of a gentleman’s education may seem like they have long past. Nowadays, jobs and positions seem to be more connected to specific specializations.

The value of a well-rounded education, however, has never really gone away. Sales, public organizations, diplomats, and lawyers alike can all benefit from the solid civil framework provided by the general study of Liberal Arts.

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This is an ideal course of study for creative-minded people who are eager to keep their doors open and find an affinity for several channels of knowledge simultaneously.

Marketing

Marketing consultants with client

Marketing is now more important than ever before. With social media and mobile web opportunities, businesses have more ways to reach their audiences. A college degree in marketing can place you in the right career path for this growing field.

As you study marketing, you can learn about sales and promotions and product placement strategies. You can also learn about human behavior and why they buy what they do. It is a very wide and interesting degree. It also involves business, commerce, and networking studies.

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After finishing your college degree in Marketing, you can get a job as an advertising sales agent, insurance sales agent, sales engineer, real estate broker, or social media manager.

Psychology

psychology students

This college degree focuses on learning how to understand human behavior, counseling skills, childhood development, the structure of the family, and much more.

It prepares you to work as a behavioral disorder counselor, marriage therapist, probation officer, social worker, or mental health counselor. If you think that you have the emotional acuity, strong mind, and compassion to help and work with other people, then this can be a very rewarding career path.

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As a psychologist, you can help people get through their anxiety, personal loss, or post-traumatic stress. To become a licensed practitioner, you‘ll most likely need to further your education, but earning a bachelor‘s in Psychology lays the foundation for a successful career.

Public Health

doctor and her assistant checking on a patient

Public health specialists are tasked with designing mid-and long term strategies that will impact the overall health levels of a large population. Generally, their focus is on a city, region, or country scale, rather than on an institution.

Public Health is one of the most delicate subsets of Public Administration and management. Its high degree of specialization should not be seen as a lack of applicability, however, at least where the job market is concerned.

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Healthcare is a rapidly growing field, and governments around the world rely on experts to help regulate and improve this area of well-being.

Sociology

sociologists studying company's reports

At its core, Sociology is the study of society and of the forces that help shape it. While it is a field that doesn’t directly translate into many private-sector job positions, the skills and analytical ability of a trained sociologist are very valuable in the workplace and the business world.

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By studying the in-depth values and forces in a specific culture or region, sociologists are able to predict and theorize many emerging trends, which can then be used to plan public policy or marketing campaigns, depending on your interests.

How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree Fast – A Step-by-Step Guide

college student taking online course

With online degrees, you have more options. How fast you get your bachelor’s degree is really up to you (and the college you choose).

To help you pick the right schools and programs, we’ve created a guide to give you the info you need to make the best choice for you.

  1. Choose a college with alternative credit options
  2. Take accelerated classes online (6 week or 8 week)
  3. Get college credit for your experience
  4. Get up to 1 year of credit with CLEP exams

Don’t see an answer to your question? Drop us a line in the comments. We want to help you graduate college faster!

How Can I Get My Bachelor’s Degree Fast?

athletic runner running

The first step is to pick a college that has generous credit policies for non-traditional credit. Think credit for life experience, credit by exam, credit for military training, and similar policies that help you speed through your degree fast.

The best ways to can earn college credits more quickly include:

  • Credit by exam (multiple choice, 90 minutes)
  • Credit for prior learning (sometimes called life or work experience)
  • Credit for military training
  • Accelerated courses offered online

We’re not talking about just one specific college. If you have your heart set on a certain college, you can get a fast bachelor’s degree from them, too.

But some colleges are just better suited for getting your bachelor’s degree fast.

The college you choose will determine exactly how fast you can complete your degree. It’s up to you!

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Choose a College with Alternative Credit Options

Students walking on college campus

The following universities offer a number of ways to qualify for college credit without actually sitting in a classroom on campus.

Here are some examples of college policies that may allow you to get college credit outside of the classroom.

  • College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
  • Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
  • Prior Learning Assessment
  • Credit for Military Training (in accordance with ACE standards)

Although each school has its own policies regarding these programs, they function in a similar way. Typically, the primary difference is how many college credits you are allowed to receive as a result of participation and approval. For example, some schools allow you only 15 credit hours with the CLEP program. Others may allow you 30 credit hours.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) programs vary widely by school, but most use the American Council on Education (ACE) guidelines to determine if your experience or training is worthy of college credit.

Here are two universities that offer some of these opportunities. They might look the same at first glance, but they have certain characteristics that set them apart.

If these schools aren’t a good fit for you, then carefully check your college’s policies to see if these opportunities are available.

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Accelerated Online Classes – 6 Weeks or 8 Weeks?

College students studying together

Accelerated online classes are the other way to knock off classes quickly.

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The time frame for the classes vary. Select the pace that best fits your schedule.

Here’s an Example

Liberty University campus

As an example of how quickly you can finish college with accelerated online classes, some universities allow you to take up to 3 classes per 8 weeks. Plus, they even have a January intensive 3-week term.

  • Take 3 classes during the Fall-1 term (8 weeks)
  • Take 3 classes during the Fall-2 term (8 weeks)
  • Take 1 class during the January intensive term (3 weeks)
  • Take 3 classes during the Spring-1 term (8 weeks)
  • Take 3 classes during the Spring-2 term (8 weeks)
  • Take 3 classes during the summer session

If you have the time (and energy) to maintain this course-load, you should be able to complete 16 classes in one year (48 credits).

Get College Credit for What You Already Know

Young experienced professionals at work

Credit for prior learning (CPL) goes by a number of names. Sometimes, you’ll hear students ask if a university offers life experience credit or work experience credit.

The credit-granting policies vary widely by university, but it’s important to point out that accredited universities don’t just hand out college credits in exchange for a copy of your resume. To maintain academic quality and integrity, universities generally follow guidelines outlined by the American Council on Education (ACE).

With this in mind, some of the types of experience that may qualify include:

  • ACE accredited corporate courses
  • Excelsior Exams
  • Advanced Placement Exams
  • CLEP Exams
  • Certified Professional Secretary Program
  • Defense Language Proficiency Tests
  • DANTES / DSST Exams
  • International Baccalaureate
  • Basic Law Enforcement and Corrections Training
  • Military Service & Training (click here for detailed military credit information)
  • Fire & Rescue Training Institute (FRTI) for the Associate in Science in Fire Service Administration
  • Pilot’s License
  • Real Estate License
  • RN and LPN certification (for non-nursing degree students)
  • PMP
  • Various types of professional licenses

Even if your experience is not listed here, that doesn’t mean your prior learning isn’t applicable to your degree. Reach out to a college advisor and ask them about their prior learning assessment program to see if you qualify.

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Credit by Examination – The Fastest Way to Get College Credits

Student testing out of college courses

Instead of taking the classes, what if you just took a few multiple choice exams and got credit for it?

It sounds like a scam, but it’s completely legit and accepted by over 2,000 accredited universities.

The two most common exam programs that award college credit for passing scores are the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Dantes Subject Standardized Test (DSST).

With CLEP and DSST:

  1. You choose an exam to take and register online, paying a small registration fee.
  2. Study like mad using a CLEP or DSST study guide (you can find these on Amazon).
  3. Set up an appointment at a test center near you to take the exam.
  4. Take the exam.
  5. Get college credits… without going to class!

Other Credit by Exam options available are:

  • Thomas Edison State Credit (TECEP)
  • New York University Language Exams
  • Excelsior College Exams (ECE)

Most colleges will accept Credit by Exam as a way for you to get your credit hours fast.

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How Fast Can I Get My Bachelors Degree?

athletic runner

How fast is fast? The average is usually 2.5 years due to university restrictions.

Regardless of the college you decide to attend, you can use these strategies; some colleges simply have more generous policies than others:

  • Credit for prior learning
  • Credit by exam
  • Transfer credits
  • Military training
  • Professional licenses
  • Similar non-traditional credit options

So, if you’re wondering how to get a degree fast (in the fastest time possible), select schools with the most generous policies.

I Need a Degree Fast!

Going back to school and getting a bachelor’s degree is really a life-changing decision. But it can be done quicker than you might think. Now that you know how to get a bachelor’s degree fast, are you ready to start changing your life?

What is the Fastest Way to Get a Bachelor’s Degree?

The fastest way to get a bachelor’s degree is to:

  1. Enroll in accelerated online courses (6-week or 8-week online classes)
  2. Get credit for your experience (some colleges offer up to 1 year of college credit!)
  3. Test out of college courses

Using these three methods will allow you to earn college credits much more quickly. Plus, if you have any previous college credits, you should definitely transfer those credits into your new degree program (even if they simply fill up your degree program electives).

Don’t Forget Accreditation!

Looking up Liberty University on the internet

Before you get too excited and enroll in an online university, make sure it’s the real deal by checking its accreditation. Colleges that submit earn regional accreditation are respected by other educational institutions and employers. If a school isn’t accredited, there’s a high chance that its programs don’t meet the highest standards.

It’s best to enroll in a university that’s accredited by one of these independent 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)

When you attend an accredited school, you can be sure of receiving a high-quality education. Check the U.S. Department of Education’s database to see how each school ranks.

Financial Aid Opportunities

screenshot of FAFSA website

And, of course, don’t skip looking for all the financial aid opportunities available to you. You could qualify for:

  • Grants
  • Deferred Loans
  • Scholarships from the University or Private Organizations
  • Work Programs
  • Employee Tuition Reimbursement

Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Runners, to Your Mark!

male runner running

Don’t waste any more time. There are plenty of online bachelor’s programs and ways to earn your college degree quickly. It’ll take some research to find the best school for you, and it’ll take some hard work finishing your degree. But you can do it! There are a wide-range of high-paying bachelor’s degrees available from accredited schools.

The post How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree Fast Online [2024 Guide] appeared first on MyDegreeGuide.com.

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