The Great Recession has left in its wake a generation of students confused about education. While some are questioning the validity of higher education altogether, others look for short cuts that would minimize the time they have to spend on earning a college degree. If you belong to the latter category, then accelerated degree programs are what you’re looking for.

Accelerated programs allow students to earn their degrees at a much faster pace than traditional college degree programs. Usually, an associate degree takes about two years to finish, a bachelor’s degree requires four years of coursework, whereas a master’s degree takes anywhere between 18 months and two years for completion.

However, the same degrees can be earned in much less time in an accelerated mode. The length of accelerated degrees may vary from one program to another, but it is often possible to earn a degree in half its stipulated time.

There are many reasons why some students prefer college degree programs that can be completed on a fast track. An accelerated degree is the right choice for you if:

• You are a working professional looking for skill enhancement through fast-track education.

• You are an eager beaver looking for a quick entry into the workforce.

• You want to switch your career and are looking for speedy training in the new field.

• You have always been ahead of your class and have the ability to undertake intense coursework.

Benefits of Accelerated Programs

There are various benefits of an accelerated degree program, especially for working professionals. The faster they can complete their education, the quicker will be their advancement to the next level. Similar is the case with students eager to start their careers. Earning a degree at a much faster pace than normal gives them a head start into their careers.

The other advantage of accelerated degree programs is the flexibility and convenience they offer. While some accelerated programs are fully online, others are hybrid as they allow students to spend part of their time studying at home and part on campus. Because of the flexible nature of accelerated degrees, many students are able to draw a better balance between their educational, personal, and professional commitments.

Another benefit of pursing an accelerated degree is the reduction in cost. Not only are these degrees often more economical than full-length traditional degrees, but they also help students save on related costs like fuel and lodging.

Students who enroll in an accelerated program gain vast amount of knowledge in a relatively shorter period of time. This helps them retain their knowledge better and raises their performance level.

However, students need enormous amount of hard work, motivation, and concentration to be able to keep up with the condensed coursework of an accelerated degree. Since the degree has to be completed in a short span of time, students seldom get the usual breaks between semesters.

The decision to enroll in an accelerated degree needs careful deliberation of its pros and cons as well as your inherent strengths and characteristics. If pursued successfully, accelerated degree programs will not only help you earn your degree faster, but can also set your career soaring like nothing else.