Fastest Accelerated Online Degrees by Degree Level

With the right accelerated online degree program, not only will you be able to finish school within a much shorter time period, but you’ll also be able to customize it to fit your busy schedule. Gone are the days of having to spend hours in a stuffy classroom! Earning your degree online allows you the freedom to complete classes and assignments on your time and from the comfort of your own home. However, keep in mind that because these programs allow you to earn your degree faster than a typical college, you’ll likely have to devote more time to studying in order to be successful.

Before choosing to earn 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 a family, you may find it difficult to study for hours on end. In choosing a specific program, it’s also important 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. Taking overall cost into account, schools appear in order of shortest to longest time to complete. All data is gathered from each school’s website, as listed below.

Associates | Bachelor’s | Master’s | Doctorate

5 Fastest Accelerated Online Associate’s Degree Programs

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.

Ivy Tech Community College

Degree(s): Associate of General Studies

Time to complete: 11 months

Cost: $8,973

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

Ivy Tech Community College is a leading institution that offers an Associate of General Studies program in an online, accelerated format. The four-semester, 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.

Purdue Global University

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

Time to complete: 12 months (10-week terms)

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 an accelerated, online program that will allow you to earn your Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science in as little as one year. In this program, you’ll gain proficiency in fire codes and inspections, and will develop skills in firefighting and prevention. The 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. Purdue Global also offers a variety of other accelerated online degrees, including a 15-month Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting certificate program.

Herzing University

Degree(s): Associate of Healthcare Administration

Time to complete: 16 months

Cost: $13,850

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: $32,640

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

The Florida Institute of Technology offers an AA 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.

5 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

In a conventional school setting, it takes four years of full-time study to earn a bachelor’s degree. By pursuing an accelerated online degree you can cut that time down to as little as 16 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.

Mercy College

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management

Time to complete: 12 months

Cost: $89,760

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

At Mercy College, you can earn your Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management 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 centers on global economic issues and how they pertain to individual companies while also providing comprehensive team leadership training. Ultimately, Mercy College offers one of the best online accelerated bachelor’s degrees out there.

California Baptist University

Degree(s): B.S. in Public Health, B.S. in Computer Information Technology, B.S. in Criminal Justice, 20+ additional ccelerated programs (information below)

Time to complete: varies by degree

Cost: varies by degree

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

CBU offers accelerated online bachelor’s 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 degrees 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 degree programs also take about 16 months to complete.

Northeastern University

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Programs

Time to complete: 18 months

Cost: $43,200

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 largely on the subject itself. For example, it takes about 18 months to earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Management, through which you will learn how to handle legal issues, financial procedures and much more pertaining to health services management. Within the Bachelor of Science in Analytics program, however, you’ll undertake communications projects, master data analysis tools, and cultivate some core statistics skills. All in all, Northeastern University is a top-tier institution through which to pursue your academic goals.

Rasmussen College

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Programs

Time to complete: 18 months

Cost: $25,554

URL: http://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/health-sciences/health-wellness/

Rasmussen College is another college that offers many different majors to those students looking to receive a bachelor’s degree. Different majors also take different amounts of time, but the majority take only about 18 months to complete. For example, the Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Wellness helps students further their careers working in hospitals, doctor’s offices, health insurance, or any other health-related profession in the field. Rasmussen’s online bachelor’s degree programs are some of the most fully-comprehensive, easily-accessible programs of their kind.

Gwynedd Mercy University

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Time to complete: 22 months, 24 Months

Cost: $29,235

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 24-month Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Both programs will equip you with the skills necessary to advance both academically and professionally.

5 Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s Degree Programs

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 earn your degree in as little as one year.

Trine University

Degree(s): Master of Science in Criminal Justice

Time to complete: 12 months

Cost: $14,000

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 to 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.

Southern New Hampshire University

Degree(s): Master of Science in Psychology

Time to complete: 15 months

Cost: $23,199

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 North Texas

Degree(s): Master of Business Administration

Time to complete: 16 months

Cost: $23,900

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 MBA programs out there and, as an institution, it will help you reach your goals with efficiency and purpose.

University of Miami

Degree(s): Master of Science in Finance

Time to complete: 16 months

Cost: $69,440

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

The University of Miami offers an accelerated, online Master’s of Science in Finance degree that can be completed in as little as 16 months. The program is designed to equip 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 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 fastest and most creditable online master’s degrees.

Ball State University

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

Time to complete: 18 months

Cost: $19,830

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 to complete. 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 their students in the mastery of 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. Overall, Ball State’s MA in Educational Psychology comes with high commendation and praise.

5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctoral Degree Programs

A doctorate degree generally takes about 8 years to obtain. However, in finding a 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.

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 PhD programs out there.

University of Florida

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Time to complete: Varies by program

Cost: Varies by program

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 PhD 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 program

Cost: $41,280

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

The University of Arkansas offers several online, accelerated doctoral 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.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Degree(s): Multiple Accelerated Doctoral Degree Programs

Time to complete: 30 months

Cost: $23,116

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 accelerated online 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: $148,000

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.

FAQ

How Quickly Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree?

A traditional bachelor’s degree will take four years to complete. However, certain bachelor degree programs will take less than one year, like several listed above. Timing depends on the chosen field of study and the individual student.

Sources:

https://www.eduref.net/most-affordable-colleges/online-accounting-degrees/
http://www.online-accounting-degree.org/top-aacsb-bachelors-programs/
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/

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