Fastest Accelerated Online Degree Programs by Degree Level 2025

An accelerated degree program is an excellent way to finish your degree fast, but it does require you to be more focused and driven.

Find Your Program in 5 Minutes or Less

Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

Accelerated online degrees are becoming increasingly popular as students seek to complete their college education in record time. Technology has made great progress, allowing individuals to obtain degrees without sacrificing too much time and energy.

Students can now acquire their degrees in mere months, unlike the traditional four-year programs.

These accelerated online degrees offer several key features:

  • Tailor-made to fit individual schedules
  • Provide freedom and flexibility to work at one's own pace
  • Consist of short, highly concentrated courses
  • Each course typically lasts 1-2 months
  • Culminate in the same amount of credit hours as traditional programs

The benefits of these programs are numerous:

  • Ultimate convenience - take classes anytime, anywhere
  • Allows students to work full-time while studying
  • Enables quicker completion of education without compromising quality
  • Ideal for students who want to progress in their studies without sacrificing career prospects

Note: Accelerated programs require more intensive studying in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional courses.

Document iconRecent statistics and research findings highlight the growing popularity and effectiveness of accelerated online degrees:

10%

Increase in enrollments for accelerated programs in 2020, making them the fastest-growing segment of the online education market. (Eduventures, 2020)

76%

Of online students reported being satisfied with their online program in 2021, up from 74% in 2019. (BestColleges.com, 2021)

70%

Of colleges and universities reported that online enrollments increased or stayed the same during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Online Learning Consortium, 2020)

Nurses who completed accelerated online RN-to-BSN courses reported higher job satisfaction and confidence compared to those in traditional programs. (Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 2021)

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Before deciding to pursue an online degree, ensure you have the adequate free time to commit to classes and homework. If you already hold a job or have familial obligations, it may prove difficult for you to devote extended hours of studying.

When choosing a specific program, it's essential to consider your virtual professors' accessibility levels, teaching styles, and homework loads.

Below we've compiled a list of some of the fastest online degree programs available, ranked by degree level and program duration.

We've considered the overall cost, tuition, and fees. Schools appear in order of shortest to longest time to complete. All data is gathered from each school's website, as listed below.

20 Fastest Accelerated Online Degree Programs 2024

This table provides a quick overview of the fastest online degree programs available at various degree levels. These programs offer accelerated paths to earning your degree, allowing you to achieve your educational goals in less time than traditional programs.

Degree Level Institutions
Associate Degrees
  • Ivy Tech Community College
  • Herzing University
  • Florida State College at Jacksonville
  • Florida Institute of Technology
  • Purdue Global University
Bachelor's Degrees
  • Mercy College
  • Indiana Wesleyan University
  • Northeastern University
  • California Baptist University
  • Gwynedd Mercy University
Master's Degrees
  • Trine University
  • University of North Texas
  • Southern New Hampshire University
  • University of Miami
  • Ball State University
MBA Degrees
  • Longwood University
  • Emporia State University
  • University of Houston-Clear Lake
  • University of North Texas
  • University of Arizona
Doctorate Degrees
  • Breyer State University
  • University of Florida
  • University of Arkansas
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • University of Southern California

Note: The speed of completion for these programs may vary based on individual circumstances, transfer credits, and specific program requirements. Always verify the most current information directly with the institution.

Jump To

Associates | Bachelor's | Master's - MBA | Doctorate

5 Fastest Accelerated Associate's Degrees Online

In a traditional college setting, it takes approximately two years to earn an associate's degree. However, by participating in an accelerated online program, you can earn the same degree in as little as 12 months.

Online Associates That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

While we haven't been able to find a 6-month associate degree online, several institutions offer accelerated programs that can be completed in less than two years. Here are some of the fastest online associate degree programs available:

Ivy Tech Community College
11 Months

Degree: Associate of General Studies

Cost: $170 per Credit Hour

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

This 4-semester course of study can help one gain understanding about various topics, such as communication skills, public speaking, mathematics, sciences (including biology and chemistry), art and psychology. With 60 credits to be earned, it really covers a lot! Ivy Tech is also renowned for its virtual accessibility and flexible transfer policies. Although the coursework is relatively rigorous, the outcome is infinitely rewarding. This is the fastest degree to get online.

Learn More
Herzing University
16 Months

Degree: Applied Science in Healthcare Administration

Cost: $464 per Credit

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Herzing University is a place where you'll have the opportunity to develop real-world skills in a safe, convenient learning format. The Associate of Healthcare Administration degree is designed to prepare ambitious individuals, like you, for entry-level positions within the healthcare field. This healthcare administration program offers a fast-tracked, easily-accessible path to real-world career success, and takes only 16 months to complete. If you are interested in healthcare education and seeking a comprehensive degree program with exceptional quality, your search has come to an end by choosing Herzing University.

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Florida State College at Jacksonville
18 Months

Degree: Associate in Arts

Cost: $218.55 per Credit

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Florida State College at Jacksonville offers an Associate in Arts program to help you decide which career path to pursue. It's quick and easy, depending on the college credits you already have and how they transfer, you can complete it within 18 months. In FSCJ's accelerated online degree program, curricula covers many varying fields, including science, economics, psychology, humanities, and more. If you're aiming to continue your education without a clear goal in mind, Florida State College at Jacksonville is a great starting point.

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Florida Institute of Technology
20 Months

Degree: Associate of Arts Degree in Accounting

Cost: $12,240 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

The Florida Institute of Technology offers an online Associate Degree program in Accounting, which can be earned in as little as 20 months through an accelerated, online curriculum. Over the course of these classes, students learn how to process financial statements, manage payroll administration, and become familiar with accounting roles. Florida Institute students are able to see how accounting plays into daily business decisions, global operations, and so much more.

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Purdue Global University
2 Years

Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science

Cost: $371 per Credit

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Purdue Global University, once known as Kaplan U, offers a fast degree online that will allow you to earn your Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science in as little as two years. In this accelerated program, you'll gain proficiency in fire codes and inspections and will develop skills in firefighting and prevention. The online associate degree is designed specifically for those looking to become firefighters or pursue professions that enable them to assist in emergency situations involving fire.

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5 Fast Accelerated Bachelor's Degrees Online

Western Governors University (WGU) 6-month Online Bachelor's Degree Hack

WGU is an accredited online university offering bachelor's degrees that can be completed in 6-9 months instead of the typical 4 years. This accelerated timeline is possible through:

  1. Transferring credits for basic requirements
  2. Strategically choosing classes
  3. Taking advantage of WGU's unlimited classes per semester policy

Cost and Funding:

  • Each semester costs about $3000
  • Options to make it free or very low cost:
    1. Work for companies like Amazon that offer tuition benefits
    2. Use Amazon's program: Work for 90 days, get free tuition, then leave to focus on studies

Strategy Details:

  • Start at Amazon part-time (20 hours/week) for 3 months
  • Switch to full-time when using the tuition benefit
  • Use the initial 3 months to complete general education classes through platforms like Study.com or Sophia.org
  • Transfer these credits to WGU

Benefits:

  • Save 3-3.5 years of time
  • Minimal or no debt
  • Obtain a valid degree for career advancement
  • Many employers don't scrutinize the specific school, just the degree itself

Considerations:

  • Not ideal for information retention or in-depth learning
  • May not be suitable for highly selective employers or graduate programs
  • Requires intense focus and effort for rapid completion

In a conventional school setting, it takes four years of full-time study to earn a bachelor’s degree.

By pursuing an accelerated bachelor's degree online you can cut that time down to as little as 12 months, depending on your course of study.

There are few paths to success that offer as many benefits and opportunities as these rapidly-paced programs. After thorough research, we have found and compiled five institutions in the U.S. that provide some of the quickest online bachelor's degrees.

Here are the top 5 universities that you should look into!

Online Bachelor's That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

While we haven't been able to find a 6-month associate degree online, several institutions offer accelerated programs that can be completed in less than two years. Here are some of the fastest online associate degree programs available:

Ivy Tech Community College
11 Months

Degree: Associate of General Studies

Cost: $170 per Credit Hour

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

This 4-semester course of study can help one gain understanding about various topics, such as communication skills, public speaking, mathematics, sciences (including biology and chemistry), art and psychology. With 60 credits to be earned, it really covers a lot! Ivy Tech is also renowned for its virtual accessibility and flexible transfer policies. Although the coursework is relatively rigorous, the outcome is infinitely rewarding. This is the fastest degree to get online.

Learn More
Herzing University
16 Months

Degree: Applied Science in Healthcare Administration

Cost: $464 per Credit

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Herzing University is a place where you'll have the opportunity to develop real-world skills in a safe, convenient learning format. The Associate of Healthcare Administration degree is designed to prepare ambitious individuals, like you, for entry-level positions within the healthcare field. This healthcare administration program offers a fast-tracked, easily-accessible path to real-world career success, and takes only 16 months to complete. If you are interested in healthcare education and seeking a comprehensive degree program with exceptional quality, your search has come to an end by choosing Herzing University.

Learn More
Florida State College at Jacksonville
18 Months

Degree: Associate in Arts

Cost: $218.55 per Credit

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Florida State College at Jacksonville offers an Associate in Arts program to help you decide which career path to pursue. It's quick and easy, depending on the college credits you already have and how they transfer, you can complete it within 18 months. In FSCJ's accelerated online degree program, curricula covers many varying fields, including science, economics, psychology, humanities, and more. If you're aiming to continue your education without a clear goal in mind, Florida State College at Jacksonville is a great starting point.

Learn More
Florida Institute of Technology
20 Months

Degree: Associate of Arts Degree in Accounting

Cost: $12,240 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

The Florida Institute of Technology offers an online Associate Degree program in Accounting, which can be earned in as little as 20 months through an accelerated, online curriculum. Over the course of these classes, students learn how to process financial statements, manage payroll administration, and become familiar with accounting roles. Florida Institute students are able to see how accounting plays into daily business decisions, global operations, and so much more.

Learn More
Purdue Global University
2 Years

Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science

Cost: $371 per Credit

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Purdue Global University, once known as Kaplan U, offers a fast degree online that will allow you to earn your Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science in as little as two years. In this accelerated program, you'll gain proficiency in fire codes and inspections and will develop skills in firefighting and prevention. The online associate degree is designed specifically for those looking to become firefighters or pursue professions that enable them to assist in emergency situations involving fire.

Learn More

5 Fast Accelerated Master's Degrees Online

In a traditional school setting, it will take about two years to earn a master’s degree, assuming you've already completed your bachelor's. However, by choosing to take an accelerated online program, you can finish your graduate program in as little as one year.

Online Master's That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Here are some of the fastest online master's degree programs available, designed for students looking to advance their education and careers quickly:

Trine University
30 credit hours

Degree: Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Cost: $575 per Credit Hour

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Trine offers an accelerated online Master's of Science in Criminal Justice that takes just under one year to complete. The program is comprised of courses in criminology, forensic psychology, and law concentrations. As a graduate student in the criminal justice field, you will learn how to make sense of crime scenes, identify potential suspects and become a reliable witness when called upon. When you finish your degree, you will be well-equipped to pursue a career in social work, corrections, law enforcement or any other related profession. By far, Trine offers the fastest online master's degree program out there.

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University of North Texas
30 credit hours

Degree: Master of Science in Advanced Data Analytics

Cost: $14,300 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

UNT offers the chance to earn your Master of Business Administration through its accelerated, online platform. The university provides seven different business specialties to choose from, including marketing, marketing analytics, organizational behavior & resource management, strategic management, supply chain analytics, and supply chain management. Through any of these programs, you'll acquire business growth skills and industry etiquette. It focuses on the management strategies which are essential for this prestigious position. So if you aspire to reach the top one day, this program is definitely worth considering. So get ready to join this pathway and make your dreams come true. In conclusion, the University of North Texas provides one of the speediest MBA programs that you can take online. This can help you to attain your objectives with maximum productivity and intent.

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Southern New Hampshire University
1-2 Years

Degree: Master of Science in Psychology

Cost: $637 per Credit

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

SNHU affords you the ability to earn a Master of Science in Psychology through its accelerated online program. This program provides several intervention-type courses that apply cognitive neuropsychology principles. You'll also develop the skills needed to understand psychological theory and practice. As a graduate student working through the online platform, you'll have the option to choose from three different concentrations within the psychology field. These include child & adolescent development psychology, forensic psychology, and industrial-organizational technology. Completing the program takes only 15 months, but the return on investment is endless. You'll gain a lifetime of educational and professional advantages.

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University of Miami
16 Months

Degree: Master of Science in Finance

Cost: $56,555 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

The University of Miami's accelerated online MS in Finance program allows students to obtain their degree in a quick 16 months. Not only that, but it also provides relevant and practical solutions to prepare them for a successful future career. Additionally, students have the option of continuing their online education and/or earning a supplemental certificate in financial decision-making or corporate finance, which both increase graduate marketability. These opportunities, along with every added benefit of online learning, make the University of Miami a definite standout among the most credible and fastest online master's degree programs.

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Ball State University
18 Months

Degree: Master's of Arts in Educational Psychology

Cost: $451 per Credit

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

The Master of Arts in Educational Psychology at Ball State Online takes roughly 18 months. This program is the most affordable on our list, and implements one of the most research-based curricula, as well. As an institution, Ball State takes a modern stance on higher education, assisting its students in mastering key elements of success. These include dealing with academic anxiety and high-stakes professional situations. The school takes pride in providing an education that's comparable to a traditional classroom environment, especially within its accelerated online platforms. Ball State's MA in Educational Psychology comes with high commendation and praise.

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5 Fastest Accelerated MBA Programs Online

If you are considering going back to school for your MBA, then consider an online program that is delivered through accelerated courses. This will ensure you get the qualification in a fraction of the time it would take by attending lectures offline. All of the accelerated online MBA programs on our list take less than two years to complete. In some cases, they're compressed into one year. We have made a comprehensive list of the fastest MBA programs available, if you're looking for an accelerated degree and a path to starting your career sooner.

Online Master's That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

If you are considering going back to school for your MBA, these accelerated online programs can help you earn your qualification in a fraction of the time it would take through traditional methods. All of these programs can be completed in less than two years, with some offering completion in as little as 10 months.

Longwood University
10 Months

Degree: Master of Business Administration (multiple tracks)

Cost: $13,361 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Longwood University's accelerated online MBA can be completed in just 10 months, making it one of the fastest programs on our list. Four different options are available for earning your MBA at Longwood: the more general MBA, MBA in Data Analytics, MBA in Economics, MBA in Marketing, or the MBA in real estate. Both of these require 31 credits and can be completed in as little as 10 months. These two programs cover topics in information technology, strategic management, business policy, managerial accounting, financial management, and strategic marketing. These programs are accredited by AACSB. Longwood is among the 16 best universities in Regional Universities South ranked by U.S. News and World Report.

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Emporia State University
12 Months

Degree: AACSB-accredited MBA

Cost: $11,979 (total)

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Emporia State University's accelerated online MBA program is accredited by the AACSB and offers rigorous business studies in order to meet the needs of working professionals. By taking part in accredited seven-week courses, students could finish their online MBA in as little as under a year. Applicant eligibility to the program requires a minimum GPA of 2.65 from an accredited institution, in addition to transcripts and test scores as mandatory documents. Fulfilling all three criteria is indispensable for admission. The Emporia MBA will prepare students to be dynamic leaders in their area of interest, such as finance, marketing, or another field of study. Emporia State has many specialized MBA concentrations, some of which are Accounting, Information Systems, or Marketing. All of their accelerated MBA programs online can be completed in as little as 12 months making an MBA convenient to fit into your busy schedule.

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University of Houston-Clear Lake
14 Months

Degree: Online MBA with specialization

Cost: $9,902 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

One of the top-ranking schools with an accelerated MBA online, the University of Houston, is fully accredited and affordable. The sixteen-week course has been replaced with an eight-week format, providing accelerated pacing for students who want to finish their MBA quickly. Students can also take two courses per eight-week session, allowing them 14 months. An MBA from UHCL will provide you with the skills to become a good business leader. Quantitative analysis training and interpersonal skills development will equip you with the experience to meet any challenge. UHCL understands that you have many priorities and goals in life. That's why they've given students the power to pursue their degrees in the way that best fits their unique needs. Whether it's an MBA to help career development or further education for personal enrichment, UHCL has a program that is right for you.

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University of North Texas
14 Months

Degree: Online MBA with Specialization

Cost: $23,900 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

The University of North Texas offers an accelerated MBA program online that can be completed within 14 months. The fast-track online M.B.A. program features 8-week classes administered in a flexible, easy-to-manage schedule in the Fall and Spring seasons and a 5-week schedule during the Summer months. You can complete an M.B.A. from UNT in a wide array of studies including marketing, marketing analytics, strategic management, sports entertainment management, organizational behavior, human resource management, supply chain analytics, or supply chain management in as few as 14 months. You can choose from five start dates and flexible class schedules. The online MBA program is AACSB-accredited and ranked by U.S. News.

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University of Arizona
14 months

Degree: Online MBA with Specialization

Cost: $1,250 per Unit

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

The Eller Online MBA program provides a highly ranked online degree from the Eller School of Management, with access to its exceptional faculty and courses offered 24/7. This accelerated online MBA program offers students six starting date options per year, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as 14 months or up to two and a half years. For over a century, the Eller School of Business has been constantly ranked among the top educational institutions for higher learning. Their courses are crafted to give you the skills & knowledge required for successful job placement after graduation. Students can pick and choose from multiple electives to add to their degree; these include entrepreneurship, finance, health care management, management & organizations, privacy & security and marketing. A few of the more specific choices include Health Economics, Integrative Leadership & Social Media Marketing.

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5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree Programs

A doctorate degree generally takes about 8 years to obtain. Fast tracking your doctorate degree is now easier than ever with the help of online colleges. Many of them offer accelerated tracks that can help you obtain your degree in as short a period as 18 months. The schools listed below offer some of the fastest, most reputable, and most affordable online doctorate degrees out there.

Online Doctorate's That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

For those seeking to advance their education to the highest level in the shortest time possible, these accelerated online doctoral programs offer a fast track to earning your degree. While program lengths vary, some can be completed in as little as one year.

Breyer State University
12 Months

Degree: Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling

Cost: $4,500 (total)

Accreditation: Not accredited by any U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency

Breyer State allows you to earn a Doctoral Degree in Grief Counseling in just one year. This program provides students with the necessary qualifications to help individuals cope with loss, traumatic events, and grief. As a theological institution, its curriculum leans toward religious ideologies and doctrinal principles. Through its unique one-on-one virtual instruction format, students are able to receive the highest measure of attention and assistance throughout their academic careers.

Note: This institution is not accredited by a recognized U.S. accrediting agency. Please research how this may affect your career prospects and ability to transfer credits.
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University of Florida
Varies by program

Degree: Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Cost: $12,744 (total)

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

The University of Florida offers a wide range of accelerated online doctoral degree programs that afford varying completion times. For example, the Nursing Practice DNP can be completed in as little as eight semesters, while the cohort-based Teachers, Schools, and Society EdD can take up to four years to complete. The Ph.D. in Latin and Roman studies also requires additional summer courses and independent study. It's essential to keep in mind that the majority of courses are conducted virtually, however, there could be times when you'd need to go to the college campus personally.

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University of Arkansas
Varies by program

Degree: Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Cost: $437.54 per Credit

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

The University of Arkansas offers several online doctoral accelerated degree programs in education leadership, adult lifelong learning, and many other specialties. If you choose to go into education leadership, you'll spend roughly three years completing the program. However, if you choose the adult and lifelong learning EdD, you'll spend about two and a half years obtaining your degree. While all classes for both degrees are offered online, you may be asked to attend some meetings in person. Ultimately, however, the University of Arkansas's virtual doctoral programs are some of the best easily accessible and fully comprehensive out there.

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Varies by program

Degree: Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Cost: Varies by degree

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

The University of Chapel Hill in North Carolina is recognized by multiple ranking sites as one of the best virtual learning institutions in the US. UCH North Carolina's online accelerated degree programs cover eight different schools of study, each from its own subsidiary school. These including the School of Public Health, School of Media and Journalism, School of Information and Library Science, Graduate School, School of Government, Eshelman School, Kenan-Flagler Business School, and Allied Health Sciences. Keep in mind that UNC's curriculum generally involves heavy workloads and its doctorate programs often require students to submit dissertations.

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University of Southern California
25 Months

Degree: Global Executive Doctor of Education

Cost: $120,000 (total)

Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

USC is a highly reputable institution located in Los Angeles, California that offers an accelerated online Global Executive Doctor of Education, formally entitled the Global Executive Doctor of Education EdD. Students pursuing this diploma become familiar with the changes needed in modern education systems around the world. Through virtual courses, students master several important skills, such as problem-solving and effective academic performance measurement. While the curriculum is offered primarily online, there is some travel required.

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Fast Online Degrees FAQ

Fast Online Degrees & Programs

These degrees can be completed in 5-8 week online classes:

  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • Computer Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Education & Teaching
  • Emergency Management
  • English
  • Environmental Policy
  • Finance
  • Fire Science
  • Forensics / CSI
  • Health Science
  • Healthcare Administration
  • Human Services
  • Information Technology
  • Legal Studies
  • Liberal Arts
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nursing
  • Nutrition
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration

Fast Online Degrees FAQ - Extended

How Quickly Can I Get a Bachelor's Degree Online?

A traditional online bachelor's degree program will take four years to complete. However, certain accelerated bachelor's degree programs will take less than one year, like several listed above.

Timing depends on the chosen field of study and the individual student.

What are 6-month Bachelor's Degrees?

International students can accelerate their education by going for a short-term bachelor's program that lasts six months. This provides several options to choose from and gives you the necessary educational grounding you'll need to become successful in your chosen career paths.

Courses that help you earn your degree quicker also require more studying time to be completed. A typical college student would need 4 years of study while a 6-month bachelor's degree will be cramming 48 months of study into 6 months.

Some institutions offering 6-month or accelerated bachelor's degrees include:

  • Mercy College - Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management (6-12 months)
  • California Baptist University - B.S. in Public Health, B.S. in Computer Information Technology, B.S. in Criminal Justice, 20 Accelerated Programs
  • Northeastern University - Multiple Accelerated Easy Certificate Programs (6-18 months)
  • Azusa Pacific University - Easy Certificate programs of Arts in Health Sciences (6-12 months)
  • Herzing University - 6 month certificate programs in Science and Design Studies (6-16 months)
  • Florida State College at Jacksonville - Easy certificate programs in Arts and General Education (6-18 months)
What Types of Degrees Can Be Completed in 5-8 Week Online Classes?

Many degree programs offer accelerated 5-8 week online classes. Some of the fields where these fast-paced programs are available include:

  • Business-related fields: Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Management, Marketing
  • Technology fields: Computer Science, Information Technology
  • Healthcare fields: Health Science, Healthcare Administration, Nursing, Nutrition
  • Social Sciences: Psychology, Criminal Justice, Human Services
  • Other fields: Education & Teaching, Emergency Management, English, Environmental Policy, Fire Science, Forensics/CSI, Legal Studies, Liberal Arts, Public Administration

These accelerated courses allow students to focus intensively on one or two subjects at a time, potentially completing their degree faster than in traditional semester-based programs.

How Do Accelerated Online Degrees Differ from Traditional Programs?

Accelerated online degrees differ from traditional programs in several key ways:

  • Time to Completion: Accelerated programs can be completed in a fraction of the time compared to traditional programs. For example, a 6-month bachelor's degree program compresses 48 months of study into just 6 months.
  • Intensity: These programs require more intense study and time commitment. Students need to be prepared to dedicate more hours per week to their studies.
  • Course Structure: Many accelerated programs use shorter terms (5-8 weeks) instead of traditional semesters, allowing students to focus on fewer subjects at a time but progress through the curriculum more quickly.
  • Flexibility: Online accelerated programs often offer more flexible scheduling, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other commitments.
  • Admission Requirements: Some accelerated programs may have different admission requirements, such as prior work experience or a higher GPA.

While accelerated programs can be a great way to earn a degree quickly, they require significant dedication and self-discipline to succeed.

Are Accelerated Online Degrees Recognized by Employers?

Yes, accelerated online degrees from accredited institutions are generally recognized by employers. However, there are a few important points to consider:

  • Accreditation: Ensure that the institution offering the accelerated degree is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Degrees from accredited schools are more likely to be respected by employers.
  • Program Quality: The curriculum of accelerated programs should meet the same standards as traditional programs. Many reputable universities offer accelerated options that maintain high academic standards.
  • Degree Designation: In most cases, the degree itself doesn't specify that it was earned through an accelerated program. For example, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration earned through an accelerated program typically looks the same on a resume as one earned through a traditional program.
  • Skills and Knowledge: Ultimately, employers are interested in the skills and knowledge you've gained. Be prepared to articulate how your accelerated program has prepared you for the workforce.
  • Industry Norms: Some industries may have specific preferences or requirements regarding education. Research the norms in your intended field to ensure an accelerated degree aligns with industry expectations.

While accelerated degrees are increasingly accepted, it's always a good idea to research potential employers' attitudes towards online and accelerated education in your specific field.

Are There One Year Online Degree Courses?

While no accredited colleges offer 1-year bachelor's programs, you can potentially complete a degree in about a year through:

  1. Fast online courses (8 weeks or less)
  2. Credit for Prior Learning
  3. Credit by Exam (e.g., CLEP)
  4. Generous transfer credit policies

Key factors for fast completion:

  • Choose schools with accelerated online classes
  • Earn credits through exams (up to 30 or more)
  • Get credit for work/life experience
  • Select a major with open electives and no labs
  • Transfer existing college credits

Completing a bachelor's in a year is challenging but possible with proper planning and dedication. Research options for testing out of courses and applying prior credits to your degree.

Congratulations on making the list of fast online degrees!

Congratulations on making your accelerated online program so fast!

If any of the information is incorrect according to more recent data not published online, please email [email protected] to notify us.

Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
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