The right degree can lead to a great career, and the right strategy can help you get started sooner. You can do just that—and save on your tuition—by graduating early. Here are five ways you can earn your degree faster.
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Enroll in an Accredited Online University
While most campus-based colleges still use a traditional system that requires you to spend a set amount of time earning a degree, online colleges provide a more convenient and flexible format. Numerous online bachelor’s degree programs and online graduate degree programs allow you to manage your course load in a way that fits your busy life. When you enroll in an accredited online university, you will receive a high-quality education and numerous opportunities to earn credits faster and graduate sooner. In short, choosing an online degree program can save you time and money. -
Transfer Credits
Whether you’re entering a bachelor’s, a master’s, or a doctoral degree program, transferring credits from previous educational institutions can shorten your path to graduation and prevent you from having to take coursework in subject matter you’ve already covered in other classes. When you enroll in an online degree program, work with your university to ensure you transfer as many credits as possible. At Walden University, for example, you may be able to transfer up to 75% of your required undergraduate credits, or up to 50% of your required graduate credits. -
Choose a Competency-Based Degree Program
Rather than enrolling in predetermined courses that require a set amount of time to complete, competency-based degree programs allow you to master specific skills in your field of study at a pace that works best for you. You can use the learning resources provided to you by faculty and/or apply knowledge acquired through work, life experiences, or prior education. Better yet, you can complete as few or as many competencies as you desire during a specific term, giving you the opportunity to lower your tuition costs and finish your degree faster. Once you’ve proven proficiency in all the competencies in your field, you earn your degree. -
Earn Credit for Your Employment, Volunteer, and/or Military Experience
All experience matters. That’s why some online universities will give you credit for professional experience, military experience, and/or volunteer experience. You may be able to transfer credits earned through professional organizations or through educational accomplishments you’ve had while serving in the military. You may also be able to participate in a prior learning assessment that awards credits based on an evaluation of your résumé, narrative essays, and supporting evidence documenting experience relevant to your chosen degree. Making use of prior experience is a fantastic way to give yourself a head start on your online degree. -
Enroll in an Accelerated Degree Program
Accelerate Into Master’s (AIM) is a Walden program that lets you earn credit toward a master’s degree while you’re earning your bachelor’s. Accelerated programs are a great choice if you already know you want a master’s or know you will need a master’s for your chosen profession.
Where Can I Earn My Degree Faster?
Walden University is an accredited institution committed to helping adult learners earn online degrees in a convenient and flexible format that fits their busy lives. Our Center for Degree Acceleration provides numerous ways for you to earn your degree faster and save on education costs, whether you’re enrolling in one of our online bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree programs.
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.