Fastest Accelerated Online Degrees by Degree Level 2023

However, keep in mind that because your accelerated degree program will allow you to earn your degree faster than a typical college, you’ll likely have to devote more time to study in a shorter duration of time.

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Before earning your degree online, consider how much free time you’ll have to devote to class and homework. For example, if you have a job, or family obligations, or are an adult learner, you may find studying for hours on end challenging. 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. Edsmart considers 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.

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

Fast Online Degree Programs

by degree-level

20 Fastest Accelerated Online Degree Programs 2023

Fastest Online Associate Degrees

  • Ivy Tech Community College
  • Herzing University
  • Florida State College at Jacksonville
  • Florida Institute of Technology
  • Purdue Global University

Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degrees

  • Mercy College
  • Indiana Wesleyan University
  • Northeastern University
  • California Baptist University
  • Gwynedd Mercy University

Fastest Online Master’s Degrees

  • Trine University
  • University of North Texas
  • Southern New Hampshire University
  • University of Miami
  • Ball State University

Fastest Online MBA Degrees

  • Longwood University
  • Emporia State University
  • University of Houston-Clear Lake
  • University of North Texas
  • University of Arizona

Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

  • Breyer State University
  • University of Florida
  • University of Arkansas
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • University of Southern California

*Fast Online Degrees

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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.

Ivy Tech Community College

Degree(s): Associate of General Studies

Time to complete: 11 Months

Cost: $149.55/ Credit Hour

URL: https://www.ivytech.edu/general-studies/index.html

While we haven’t been able to find a 6-month associate degree online, Ivy Tech Community College is a leading institution that offers an Associate of General Studies program in an online, accelerated format which can be completed in 11 months. The four-semester, the 60-credit curriculum covers topics such as communications, public speaking, mathematics, biology, chemistry, art, psychology, and so much more. 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.

Herzing University

Degree(s): Applied Science in Healthcare Administration

Time to complete: 16 Months

Cost: $441/ Credit

URL: https://www.herzing.edu/healthcare/healthcare-administration/associate-degree

Herzing University is a place where students have the opportunity to develop real-world skills in a safe, convenient learning format. The Associate of Healthcare Administration is designed to prepare ambitious individuals for entry-level positions within the healthcare field. It’s a fast-tracked, easily-accessible path to real-world career success, and takes only 16 months to complete. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, fully-comprehensive degree program within the healthcare field, look no further.

Florida State College at Jacksonville

Degree(s): Associate in Arts

Time to complete: 18 Months

Cost: $6,293

URL: https://www.fscj.edu/academics/areas-of-study/aa

If you haven’t decided which career path you’d like to take, you can earn an Associate in Arts at FSCJ in as little as 18 months, depending on which college credits you already have and how they transfer. In this accelerated online degree program, curricula cover many varying fields, including science, economics, psychology, humanities, and more. For students aiming to continue their education without an exact idea of where they want to take it, this school is a great jumping-off point.

Florida Institute of Technology

Degree(s): Associate of Arts Degree in Accounting

Time to complete: 20 Months

Cost: $12,240

URL: https://www.floridatechonline.com/accounting/aa-accounting/?utm_source=fit&utm_medium=university

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.

Purdue Global University

Degree(s): Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science

Time to complete: 2 Years

Cost: $371 Per Credit

URL: https://www.purdueglobal.edu/degree-programs/fire-science/online-associate-degree-fire-science/

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 a firefighter or pursue a profession that enables them to assist in emergency situations involving fire.

5 Fastest Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees Online

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. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top five fastest schools in America to offer online bachelor’s degrees.

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

Mercy College

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management

Time to complete: 12 Months

Cost: $994/ Credit

URL: https://www.mercy.edu/degrees-programs/bs-organizational-management

You can earn your Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management at Mercy College in just one year. Throughout this course, students learn to evaluate ethical business issues, as well as how to construct and present information to other employees in the best manner. Curricula center on global economic issues and how they pertain to individual companies while also providing comprehensive team leadership training. While we haven’t been able to find a 6-month bachelor’s degree online, Mercy College offers one of the best, accelerated bachelor’s degree programs online. Earn your bachelor’s degree in 12 months at Mercy College.

Indiana Wesleyan University

Degree(s): Bachelor of Psychology in Human Relations

Time to complete: 15 Months

Cost: $395/ Credit Hour

URL: https://www.indwes.edu/adult-graduate/online/online-delivery

IWU’s online programs are a good choice for working students because of their flexible enrollment options and multiple start dates. IWU offers students the opportunity to take courses at a variety of places: online, on campus, or in one of the school’s learning centers up and down the East Coast. One of their accelerated online programs is their Bachelor of Psychology in Human Relations.

The Bachelor of Science in Psychology of Human Relations enables you to go deeper into the study of personality, motivation, behavior, and change so you can better help yourself and others thrive in the workplace. The IWU library has a lot of books, journals, and other information resources, as well as trained librarians that help students with research.

Northeastern University

Degree(s): Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Time to complete: 16 Months (transfer students with a minimum of 62 college credits are eligible}

Cost: $1,222/ Credit Hour

URL: https://www.northeastern.edu/bachelors-completion/online/

Northeastern University is another school that offers several majors through its accelerated, online system. Of course, the time it takes to complete one of the programs depends mainly on the subject itself. For example, it takes about 16 months to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Northeastern University’s accredited Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers a program for those from other fields to quickly and efficiently get qualified to enter the nursing profession. Nursing programs are designed to teach students how to be leaders in the healthcare system. These programs have a wide range of skills that they teach their students. These skills may include but are not limited to: Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Health promotion, Infection control, Leadership, and Patient Care.

California Baptist University

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Online Degrees

Time to complete: Varies by degree

Cost: Varies by degree

URL: https://www.cbuonline.edu/

CBU offers accelerated online BA degrees in about twenty different fields, a few of which include accounting, public health, criminal justice, and computer information technology–just to name a few. The time to complete these accelerated bachelor’s programs varies by subject. For example, you can earn your accounting degree in as little as 36 months. However, it will only take roughly 16 months to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health. For computer information technology and criminal justice, the quick degree programs take about 16 months to complete.

Gwynedd Mercy University

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Online Degrees

Time to complete: Varies by degree

Cost: Varies by degree

URL: https://www.gmercyu.edu/admissions-aid/online-accelerated

Gwynedd Mercy University is a prestigious institution, as attested to by its large number of graduates. This school offers two accelerated online courses for those looking to earn a bachelor’s degree. In only about 22 months, you can complete the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree, with a concentration in organizational management, or a 16-month Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Both programs will equip you with the skills necessary to advance both academically and professionally.

5 Fastest 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.

Trine University

Degree(s): Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Time to complete: 12 Months

Cost: $575/ Credit Hour

URL: https://www.trine.edu/online/degrees/justice-psychology/online-mscj-master-criminal-justice.aspx

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, you’ll learn how to study crime scenes, create a list of suspects, and how act as a reliable witness. As a graduate, you’ll gain the skills necessary to find a career in social work, corrections, law enforcement, and any number of other criminal justice positions. By far, Trine offers the fastest online master’s degree program out there.

University of North Texas

Degree(s): Master of Science in Advanced Data Analytics

Time to complete: 12 Months

Cost: $14,300

URL: https://online.unt.edu/programs

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. Your studies will also focus heavily on organization management strategies, so if you’re looking to become the next Fortune 500 CEO, this is the pathway for you. All in all, the University of North Texas offers the fastest online MBA programs out there and, as an institution, it will help you reach your goals with efficiency and purpose.

Southern New Hampshire University

Degree(s): Master of Science in Psychology

Time to complete: 1-2 Years

Cost: $627/ Credit

URL: http://www.snhu.edu/online-degrees/masters/ms-in-psychology

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. In all, the program takes about 15 months to complete, but the academic and professional benefits that you’ll reap from it will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

University of Miami

Degree(s): Master of Science in Finance

Time to complete: 16 Months

Cost: $53,682

URL: https://uonline.miami.edu/programs/master-finance/index.html

The University of Miami offers an accelerated, online Master of Science in Finance degree that can be completed in as little as 16 months. The program is designed to equip online students with real-world solutions, ensuring they’re prepared for a lifelong career from the moment they graduate. 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.

Ball State University

Degree(s): Master’s of Arts in Educational Psychology

Time to complete: 18 Months

Cost: $438/ Credit

URL: https://www.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/online/academic-programs/masters/mainedpsych

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 prides itself on offering the type of education you would expect to receive in a face-to-face classroom, especially within its accelerated online platforms. Ball State’s MA in Educational Psychology comes with high commendation and praise.

5 Fastest Accelerated MBA Programs Online

If you’re thinking about going back to school for your MBA, then consider an online program that’s delivered through accelerated courses. They’ll 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. If you’re looking for the best fast-track MBA programs, we’ve put together a list of the fastest programs to date.

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

Longwood University

Degree(s): Master of Business Administration (multiple tracks)

Time to complete: 10 Months

Cost: $13,206

URL: https://online.longwood.edu/programs/

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.

Emporia State University

Degree(s): AACSB-accredited MBA

Time to complete: 12 Months

Cost: $11,979

URL: https://online.emporia.edu/programs/mba-general.aspx

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. To enter the program, students need a 2.65 GPA from an accredited university of higher education and an official transcript and test scores, which all are required.

The Emporia MBA will prepare students to be dynamic leaders in their area of interest, whether it be 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.

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Degree(s): Online MBA with specialization

Time to complete: 14 Months

Cost: $9,902

URL: https://www.uhcl.edu/academics/online/graduate-programs/business-administration-mba-online

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, which provides accelerated pacing for students who want to finish their MBA in a timely manner. 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.

University of North Texas

Degree(s): Online MBA with Specialization

Time to complete: 14 Months

Cost: $23,900

URL: https://www.uhcl.edu/academics/online/graduate-programs/business-administration-mba-online

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.

Students can complete an M.B.A. in 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.

Students can choose from five start dates and flexible class schedules. The online MBA program is AACSB-accredited and ranked by U.S. News.

University of Arizona

Degree(s): Online MBA with Specialization

Time to complete: 14 months

Cost: $1,250/ Unit

URL: https://eller.arizona.edu/programs/mba/online

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.

The Eller School of Business upholds the reputation of being one of the best business schools in the world and provides students with skills and knowledge that will help them succeed in their careers.

Students will have the opportunity to choose from six electives in order to complete their degrees:  entrepreneurship, finance, health care management, management and organizations, privacy and security, and marketing. Some specific options include Health Economics, Integrative Leadership, and Social Media Marketing.

5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree Programs

A doctorate degree generally takes about 8 years to obtain. However, in finding an online college that will put you on an accelerated track, you can earn that doctorate in as little 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.

Breyer State University

Degree(s): Doctor of Psychology in Grief Counseling

Time to complete: 12 Months

Cost: $3,500

URL: https://breyerstate.com/ethereal-accelerated-doctor-of-psychology-in-grief-counseling/

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. All in all, Breyer State offers one of the fastest and most affordable online Ph.D. programs out there.

University of Florida

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Time to complete: Varies by degree program

Cost: $12,744

URL: https://distance.ufl.edu/prospective-students/doctorate/

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. Keep in mind that while these courses are distributed largely online, you may be required to appear in person at the campus at times.

University of Arkansas

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Time to complete: Varies by degree program

Cost: 437.54/ Credit

URL: https://online.uark.edu/programs/index.php#filter=.phd

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 most easily accessible and fully comprehensive out there.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Time to complete: Varies by degree program

Cost: Varies by degree

URL: https://www.unc.edu/academics/online-education/

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the most prestigious online schools in the nation. Its online accelerated degree programs cover eight different schools of study, 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.

University of Southern California

Degree(s): Global Executive Doctor of Education

Time to complete: 25 Months

Cost: $120,000

URL: https://online.usc.edu/programs/global-ed-d/

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 the 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. Ultimately, however, the University of Southern California offers one of the best education doctoral degrees of its kind.

Whether you take 16 months or 16 years to complete your degree, the end result is the same. The difference is in how you choose to earn that degree and what you plan to do with it. You may have the time and patience to pursue the more traditional on-campus route or, like many people today, you want to earn your degree as fast and conveniently as possible. Finding the best accelerated online program for you is an essential first step in making that dream a reality.

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

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 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.

6-month Bachelor’s Degrees

A 6-month bachelor’s degree for international students can be a great way to get started on your education. You can choose from a variety of programs that will help you get the education you need.

Courses that allow you to earn your degree quicker also require you to dedicate more time to study in order to be successful. 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.

Below is a list of some ongoing 6-month bachelor’s degrees for international students.

Sources:

https://best-universities.net/most-affordable/online-accounting-degrees/
https://best-universities.net/accounting/top-aacsb-bachelors-programs/

https://best-universities.net/degrees/cheap-online-degrees-fast/
http://www.apu.edu/university-college/associates/health-sciences/
http://www.fscj.edu/academics/accelerated-college/accelerated-curriculums
http://www.fit.edu/programs/3550/aa-accounting
https://www.mercy.edu/admissions/adult/accelerated-bachelor-degree
http://www.northeastern.edu/online/degrees/bachelors-health-management/
http://www.trine.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/graduate/criminal-justice/
http://accelerateyourmba.unt.edu/
http://www.miami.edu/online/online-degrees/masters-finance/
http://cms.bsu.edu/academics/collegesanddepartments/teachers/departments/edpsychology/grad-programs-ed-psych/ma-ed-psych
http://audiology.ufl.edu/programs/distance-learning/distance-learning-au-d/
https://online.uark.edu/programs/doctor-education-educational-leadership.php
http://programs.northcarolina.edu/search?q=&level=doctorate&field=
https://online.usc.edu/programs/global-ed-d/

Congratulations on making the list of fast online degrees!

Congratulations on making your accelerated online program so fast!

Show your accomplishment by adding this award to your school’s site or newspaper.

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.
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