Is an Accelerated Degree Worth It?

Key Information:

Accelerated degrees take about half the time of traditional programs and can cost significantly less.
These programs have a more condensed curriculum, which means a heavier workload in a shorter period.
Graduating faster allows you to enter the workforce sooner, which can be beneficial for gaining experience and income.
While accelerated degrees are generally well-regarded by employers, the key is choosing a reputable, accredited program.

Accelerated degree programs have grown in popularity over the past couple of years, with many people preferring this format over the traditional style. That said, while both conventional and accelerated programs end with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, the learning type is different.

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But are all accelerated degrees worth it? How respected are these certifications by employers when you are looking for a job? In this article, you will find out more about that matter and determine whether or not accelerated degrees are worth it for your purpose.

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What Is an Accelerated Degree?

As the name suggests, accelerated programs allow you to get your hands on a diploma faster. Whether you are looking for a bachelor’s or master’s degree, these programs take around half the time to complete since the accelerated degree workload is more condensed. You may be getting fewer vacations with these programs (i.e., classes can take place during summer), but the diploma is released quickly.

Benefits of Accelerated Education

A fast-track bachelor’s degree or master’s program comes with various advantages, including the following:

1. Time Efficiency

Accelerated programs offer access to the most time-efficient degrees, as they take around half the time of a traditional program to get your degree. That’s because your classes are more intensive, focusing on the learning curve and the most relevant information for your field. Since classes also take place during summer and when traditional students get their vacation, you’ll be able to get your degree quickly.

2. Cost Effectiveness

One of the most significant advantages of such programs is the money you will save by opting for them. The cost of accelerated degrees is generally 50% of what you would have to pay for the traditional program, as classes are cut in half. Since the coursework is all condensed, you won’t have to pay as much on tuition, with the average program costing around $10,000-$20,000 per year. Plus, since most classes are online or in hybrid format, you will not have to pay as much for campus life.

3. Early Workforce Entry

One of the biggest advantages of accelerated programs is that you can enter the workforce much faster than by following the traditional path. This can be helpful for you, as employers are looking for experience rather than degrees. If your goal is to get a specific role by the time you reach a certain age, then an accelerated degree can help you get there much faster.

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Accelerated Degree Challenges

Accelerated programs are quite advantageous for those who want to get their hands on a degree much faster, but there are some challenges to consider. The most common are the following:

1. Higher Workload

The coursework of accelerated degrees is often more intensive. Going through the curriculum at an accelerated rate does not mean you will study less. It means that you will have to cover the same materials but at a faster rate. Some students can find it challenging to keep up with, especially if they have other commitments such as a family or a job.

2. Less Extracurricular Time

While accelerated degrees offer plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities such as internships or part-time jobs, they might not be as giving when it comes to time. The intense coursework can leave little time to engage in these activities, as you will spend most days studying. Unless you choose online accelerated degrees with flexible schedules, then you might find it difficult to get skillsets through extracurricular activities.

3. Potential for Stress and Burnout

Burnout is quite common in traditional programs and can become even more severe during accelerated programs. Some students might find the pace rather stressful, especially when they have to deal with tight deadlines. If these students also try to balance a job with these classes, their stress levels can increase, leading to mental exhaustion.

Comparing Accelerated vs. Traditional Degrees

Despite a few similarities, accelerated and traditional degrees have their differences, especially in terms of:

· Duration

A traditional bachelor’s degree program lasts around four years, whereas the typical master’s diploma can be obtained in two. This can make it rather complicated for someone needing a diploma fast (e.g., seeking a promotion). Accelerated bachelor’s degrees take about two to three years, after which you can get your diploma. On the other hand, accelerated master’s programs can be completed in one year or less.

· Cost

Tuition is one of the highest concerns when it comes to getting a degree. Most universities charge an average tuition of around $40,000 per year, and the cost can go even higher if you opt for an Ivy League school. This does not include the fees you would have to pay for lodging during your four years of university. Since accelerated programs have a shorter time span, you would spend around $20,000 per year, potentially saving on accommodation as well.

· Learning Environment

Traditional bachelor’s degree programs offer a mix of seminars, lectures, and perhaps extracurricular activities that students can engage in. Most lessons take place within a classroom, where students can easily get hands-on experience of what is taught. On the other hand, adult learners’ accelerated programs have a faster pace and are usually offered online or in a hybrid format. While the condensed curriculum leaves less time for extracurricular activities, it is often recommended for those who want to study from a distance.

· Potential Outcomes

With an accelerated program, you get slightly more flexible formats that allow you to keep your day job or get your degree faster. This can lead to higher earning potential, especially when you are looking for career opportunities with accelerated degrees. Conversely, traditional degrees offer a higher potential for internships and networking because you will stay on campus.

· Education Quality

For the most part, there are fewer differences between the programs when it comes to quality. The only condition is to choose a course and institution accredited by a reputable body. The faculty expertise is also relevant, which means you should pay close attention to accelerated degree success stories. The rest merely depends on the student’s ability to go through this fast-paced style.

Who Should Consider an Accelerated Degree?

Accelerated degrees are very useful and can be obtained quite fast, but they are not everyone’s cup of tea. For the most part, highly motivated students who can handle a fast-paced environment will likely thrive in this kind of program. This learning method might also fit your needs if you have a clear career goal (i.e., entering the workforce fast or getting promoted).

Adult learners and working professionals should keep in mind that time management is of the essence. If you have a job alongside your studies, you should look for programs that have flexible schedules (evening and weekend hours, online classes, etc.). You should also take advantage of potential support services offered by the program, such as tutoring, academic advising, and career counseling.

Career Implications of an Accelerated Degree

For the most part, the employer’s perception of accelerated degrees is a good one. Nowadays, most companies are looking for experience and skills, so the diploma is just a formality.

However, the overall opinion depends on the quality of the education you get. If the degree was received after enrolling in an accredited bachelor’s program, then you have a high chance of career advancement. If the accelerated degree offered career preparedness, it could also make the employer see you in a better light.

Financial Considerations

The financial part should also be considered when enrolling in accelerated programs. See what the tuition is and then establish a payment plan to be able to attend the classes.

Tuition vs. Earnings

When considering the type of program you are going for, you need to analyze the cost of tuition and weigh it against the salary you get once you graduate. This is particularly important, especially if you get a student loan to pay for your studies. The income you receive needs to be able to cover your loans. The advantage of accelerated programs is that they usually cost less and allow you to enter the workforce faster. Thus, you can clear your debt sooner.

Financial Aid Availability

Most universities, big or small, offer financial aid, whether a scholarship for excellence or a grant for being in a specific category of people. Accelerated programs can provide the same thing, especially if they are part of a reputable university. So, before making your choice, you should look into the financial aid options that they provide so that you can offset your debt.

The Bottom Line

As you can see, an accelerated degree can be just as useful for your purposes as a traditional certification. Not to mention that it also comes with some extra advantages. You just need to choose a program that aligns with your career and ensure it has been accredited by reliable institutions. Once you graduate from an accelerated course, the diploma you receive should be able to open plenty of doors and boost your career.

Sources:

The Guardian

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