The Benefits of Earning an Accelerated Online Degree
Earning an accelerated online degree is ideal for working adults. Here are some of the major benefits:
1. Speedy Completion
Accelerated degrees, as the name suggests, are structured to be completed at a faster pace. Terms are often 5 to 8 weeks instead of the usual 15 weeks. And by taking more intensive courses, you can earn your degree in less than 2 years. For those ready to advance their careers quickly, accelerated online programs are the way to go.
2. Reduction in Cost
Online degrees tend to cost less than usual on-campus degrees. Accelerated programs, in particular, can save you money because you’re able to finish faster. You’ll also avoid costs like room and board, transportation, and parking fees.
3. Career Advancement
An accelerated online degree looks impressive to employers. It shows you have the dedication and time-management skills to succeed in a fast-paced work environment. The knowledge and skills you gain will open up more career opportunities and potentially higher pay.
Top Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Here are some of the top accelerated online bachelor’s degrees for busy professionals:
1. Healthcare Administration
Healthcare administration degrees teach you how to manage personnel and facilities in the healthcare industry. Common careers include medical office manager, hospital administrator and healthcare project manager. Many schools offer accelerated bachelor of healthcare administration degrees that can be completed in 2-3 years of full-time study.
2. Business Administration
A business administration degree provides a broad education in core business concepts like management, marketing, finance and accounting. An accelerated online bachelor of business administration (BBA) usually takes around 2-3 years to finish and opens you up to various business careers such as project manager, operations manager and sales representative.
3. Information Technology
Fast-track IT degrees like the bachelor of information technology (BIT) or bachelor of science in information technology (BSIT) teach in-demand technical skills that lead to jobs like web developer, support specialist, and network administrator. These programs often focus on hot areas in tech like software engineering, cybersecurity, and web development and can usually be completed within 2 to 3 years of full-time online study.
4. Psychology
An accelerated bachelor of arts in psychology teaches you about human behavior, mental health and social dynamics. Common careers include case manager, human resources specialist and rehabilitation specialist. Fast-track psychology degrees typically require around 120 credits and can be finished within 2 to 3 years through optimized online curricula and flexible scheduling for working students.
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Fast-Track Your MBA With Accelerated Online Options
Earning an MBA degree while working full time can be challenging. Accelerated online MBA programs are designed specifically for busy working professionals who want to complete their degree quickly. If you have several years of work experience and are looking to fast-track your career advancement, an accelerated online MBA could be a great choice.
Accelerated MBAs allow you to earn the same prestigious degree in 12 to 18 months instead of the usual 2 to 3 years. By taking more intensive course loads, combining shorter terms, and reducing or eliminating breaks, these programs speed up your time to graduation.
Accelerated online MBAs also allow you to earn your degree from anywhere. All coursework and requirements are completed online, so you can study on your own schedule from anywhere you have an Internet connection.
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Accelerated Online Nursing Programs for Busy Nurses
Accelerated online nursing degree programs offer a flexible path for nurses to earn their BSN or MSN while still working.
Adaptable and Fast
Accelerated online nursing programs are designed for working nurses. Courses are delivered fully online, so you can study on your own schedule from anywhere. And because the programs focus specifically on nurses, they cover only essential nursing topics at an expedited pace. You can earn your BSN in as little as 12 months or your MSN in 18-24 months.
Credit for Experience
Most accelerated online nursing programs offer significant credit for your existing nursing experience and education. If you have an associate’s degree or diploma in nursing, you may be able to transfer many of those credits toward your BSN. For MSN programs, your years of work experience as an RN can qualify you for course waivers so you can finish faster.
Career Advancement
Earning your BSN or MSN online opens up more career opportunities with higher pay. A BSN can qualify you for nursing leadership roles like charge nurse or nurse manager. An MSN prepares you for advanced practice positions as a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse anesthetist, or nurse midwife. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these advanced nursing roles offer salaries well over $100,000 per year.
Affordable and Accessible
Online nursing programs are often more affordable than on-campus degrees. If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, an accelerated online degree program is a fast, flexible, and affordable option.
Tips for Succeeding in an Accelerated Online Degree Program
Here are some tips to help you thrive:
1. Create a dedicated workspace
Find a quiet space in your home free of distractions. Make sure you have a proper desk, good lighting, and minimal clutter. Establish a routine to “commute” to your workspace at the start of your study sessions. This helps put you in the right mindset.
2. Set a study schedule
Accelerated programs move fast, so you need to keep up with the pace. Create a weekly schedule that allots time each day for reading materials, completing assignments, and studying. Treat your coursework like a job to stay on track. Try to do schoolwork at the same time each day to make it a habit.
3. Connect with your instructor and classmates
Even though the program is online, don’t isolate yourself. Reach out to your instructor if you have questions or need clarification on topics. Connect with your classmates through discussion forums and online study groups.
4. Practice time management techniques
From prioritizing important tasks to eliminating distractions, use productivity tools and techniques to make the most of your time. For example, start with high-priority or difficult tasks while your mind is fresh.
5. Ask for accommodations if needed
Don’t hesitate to speak up if you need extra support. Reach out to your school’s disability services or student services department to request accommodations like extra time for assignments or alternative testing formats. Your needs are important, so make sure to advocate for yourself.
Conclusion
Succeeding in an accelerated program requires hard work and dedication. But by creating good habits, managing your time wisely, and building a support system, you can complete your degree efficiently while still balancing your other responsibilities. Stay focused on your goals and you’ll be walking across that stage before you know it.