The number of college students is on the rise. This is in part due to the online offerings many top ranking colleges are offering. Gone are the days when students would have to show up at a certain day and time for classes. Instead, college campuses have become virtual. Not only can you complete your degree program, you can complete it in a fraction of the time with accelerated online programs.

Walden University

Walden University is regionally accredited, the highest level of accreditation possible.

Accelerated degree programs: Walden University offers 8-week online classes. Since traditional semesters are usually 16 weeks long, you can see the benefit of enrolling in an 8-week class: you earn your college credits MUCH faster.

Walden University offers accredited online Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees online.

Over 50 online degrees in over 200 areas of concentration are available in fields such as:

• Business / Accounting / Finance (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
• Management / Leadership (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
• Political Science (Bachelor’s)
• Health Studies / Health Care Management (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
• Psychology / Forensic Psychology / Clinical Psychology (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
• Communications (Bachelor’s)
• Child Development / Child Studies (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
• Computer Information Systems / Information Technology (Bachelor’s, Master’s)
• Criminal Justice / Homeland Security / Public Policy (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)
• Education / Teaching (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate)

Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

Accelerated Online

Are Online Programs Legitimate?

Online programs are legitimate and are more accepted in today’s workplace. However, when you are reviewing potential colleges, be certain to check for proper accreditation. Your online university of choice should have regional accreditation. This is the same accreditation level that top schools have, even those Ivy League schools!

What Types of Degrees Are Offered?

You can earn any type of degree online. From associate’s degree programs to doctorate level program, there are online programs for it. In addition, just about every discipline is offered either online or partially online. It is important to note, however, that not all programs are available at every college. If you have questions, be certain to check with your academic advisor.

How are Classes Accelerated?

Classes can be accelerated in a few different ways. The most common way that online classes are accelerated is by their very nature. Online programs are not bound by a traditional academic calendar of 12-16 week quarters or semesters. Online universities often have shorter academic periods of 6-8 weeks. This allows students to take more classes each academic year.

Summary

In many instances, accelerated online programs allow students to earn their degrees in about half the time of a traditional campus based program. Be certain to check accreditation. If a university offers a degree program with just a few short classes or over the course of a weekend, it is likely fraudulent.

As a prospective college student, it’s a rare occasion when one has the ability to receive a “full-ride” to a college, and most families rely on FAFSA and Federal Financial Aid to enroll in the degree program of their choice.

American InterContinental University

American InterContinental University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

AIU accommodates you and your lifestyle with quality undergraduate and graduate degree programs offering you value for your money; flexibility on your schedule; generous transfer-in policy crediting up to 50% of your combined past college credits and work experience; and adaptability with its award-winning virtual campus granting you access anytime, anywhere you are in the world.

AIU offers the following programs:

• Associate’s in Business Administration
• Associate’s in Criminal Justice Administration
• Associate’s in Information Systems
• Associate’s in Visual Communication
• Bachelor’s in Accounting and Finance
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management
• Bachelor’s in Human Resources
• Bachelor’s in International Business
• Bachelor’s in Management
• Bachelor’s in Marketing
• Bachelor’s in Operations Management
• Bachelor’s in Project Management
• Bachelor’s in Digital Design
• Bachelor’s in Web Design
• Bachelor’s in Computer Forensics
• Bachelor’s in Computer Systems
• Bachelor’s in Information Technology
• Bachelor’s in Internet Security
• Bachelor’s in Network Administration
• Bachelor’s in Programming
• Bachelor’s in Forensic Science
• Bachelor’s in Law Enforcement
• Bachelor’s in Special Populations
• Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction
• Master’s in Educational Assessment and Evaluation
• Master’s in Instructional Design
• Master’s in Leadership in Educational Organizations
• Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
• Master’s in Information Technology
• Master’s in Project Management
• Bachelor’s in Accounting
• Bachelor’s in Accounting & Finance Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Finance
• Bachelor’s in Finance Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Human Resources
• Bachelor’s in Human Resources Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in International Business
• Bachelor’s in International Business Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Management
• Bachelor’s in Management Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Marketing
• Bachelor’s in Marketing Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Operations Management
• Bachelor’s in Operations Management Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Organizational Psychology & Development Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Project Management
• Bachelor’s in Project Management Part Time Option

Read more or get a program guide from the American InterContinental University.

There’s no shame whatsoever in requesting financial aid from the government, and they are more than happy to help any way they can. Are you starting to figure out how you will finance your own education? You may want to check out the information below.

About the FAFSA and Federal Aid

As you begin the process of applying for financial aid from the government, you will be required to complete a FAFSA form.

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form will help the government understand your financial needs and help determine the grants, work study program and student loan amounts you’ll need to undertake in order to pay for college.

It asks a variety of questions regarding to you or your family’s financial status so it’s important to have as much information regarding you or your family’s income available when completing this form.

Federal Pell Grant

Once the form has been received, you may be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, which is available for any students who have families that have an income less than $60,000/year. The amount that is given to families can range from under a thousand dollars to over $5,000. There are other grants that are designed specifically for low income families.

While there are other means of obtaining financial aid, such as scholarships or loans, starting with the FAFSA and Federal Aid is the most common and strongly recommended. As you or your child begin applying for colleges, this is the most ideal way for them to get an idea of how much will be required from you to pay for college education and hopefully remove a little bit of stress during the whole application process.

Liberty University

Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS-COC) to award degrees at associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral levels.

Liberty University gives you access to your education 24/7 wherever you are in the world. It is affordable to your budget with tuition rates among the lowest in the country. It is deeply rooted to its Christian values taking careful consideration of the ethical standards many employers look for today.

Liberty University Programs:

Asociado de Artes en Educación
Asociado de Artes en Negocio
Asociado de Artes en Religion
Asociado de Artes en Sicología
Associate of Arts in Accounting
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
Associate of Arts in Business Management Information Systems
Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice
Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education in Interdisciplinary Studies
Associate of Arts in Education (Non-Licensure)
Associate of Arts in General Studies
Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
Associate of Arts in Psychology
Associate of Arts in Religion
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Bachelor of Science in Business Management Information Systems
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Science in Education (Non-Licensure)
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education – Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Bachelor of Science in Religion
Bachelor of Science in Special Education – Interdisciplinary Studies
Certificado Avanzado en Estudios Biblicos
Certificado en Negocios
Doctor of Education
Doctor of Ministry
Doctor of Philosophy
Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction
Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership
Maestria de Artes En Consejeria Pastoral
Maestria de Artes En Liderazgo Cristiano
Master in Public Health – Nutrition
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry
Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology
Master of Arts in Evangelism and Church Planting
Master of Arts in Global Studies
Master of Arts in Human Services
Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies
Master of Arts in Management and Leadership
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Master of Arts in Professional Counseling
Master of Arts in Public Policy
Master of Arts in Religion
Master of Arts in Religion
Master of Arts in Teaching
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Master of Arts in Worship – Ethnomusicology
Master of Arts in Worship Studies
Master of Arts in Worship Studies
Master of Business Administration
Master of Divinity — Chaplaincy
Master of Education
Master of Religious Education
Master of Science in Accounting
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator
Master of Science in Sport Management – Sport Administration
Master of Theology (non-thesis)
Undecided

Read more or get a program guide from Liberty University.

What is accreditation?

When a college or university has accreditation, it has met rigorous quality standards in education, faculty, and student life. The process of getting the accreditation can take years, however once a legitimate accrediting institution has given the accreditation to the college, they have examined every detail of the college including future growth and overall university success. Having accreditation puts you above schools that don’t have it simply because future employers will know that you have received the best education possible.

How do I know if my school is accredited?

Many schools will proudly display their accreditation in their brochures and marketing materials. If you’re looking for a college online, there is usually some form of recognition on the school’s homepage or they have a separate section of their site dedicated to the accreditations they have received.

Are there fake accreditations? How do I tell the difference?

There are many colleges known as diploma mills who guarantee you a degree in a short amount of time with no real education required, just a bill to pay. They claim accreditation and in this case, they most likely are fake accrediting institutions designed specifically to assist this particular diploma mill. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) has a complete list of diploma mills and fake accreditations on their website, with a very easy to use search engine.

Why should I attend an accredited college?

By attending an accredited college, you will be able to earn a degree with your head held high. Future employers may look at the college you attended to make sure that it is properly accredited so they can be sure that the education you have received complies with their requirements. While most colleges are properly accredited, it’s always important to make sure that you check that information before sending them any money, including application fees.

If the idea of distance learning sounds either very appealing or frightening to you, let us help clear up any questions you have with Distance Learning 101.

Walden University

Walden University offers accelerated classes: 8 week online classes.

At Walden, giving quality education is the top-most priority with academic programs designed to fit the needs of every student. We offer over 60 online degree programs with more than 300 specializations and concentrations.

Online Bachelor’s Degrees

• Accounting – General
• Business Administration (7 concentrations)
• Child Development (4 concentrations)
• Communication (6 concentrations)
• Computer Information Systems (7 concentrations)
• Criminal Justice (5 concentrations)
• Educational Studies
• Forensic Psychology (4 concentrations)
• Health Studies (7 concentrations)
• Healthcare Management
• Information Technology (5 concentrations)
• Instructional Design & Technology
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Political Science (6 concentrations)
• Psychology (8 concentrations)
• Child Development
• Health Studies
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Online Master’s Degrees

• MBA (10 concentrations)
• Accounting (7 concentrations)
• Information Technology (3 concentrations)
• Information Systems Management (5 concentrations)
• Public Administration (13 concentrations)
• Healthcare Administration
• Public Health
• Adult Learning
• Career Counseling
• Criminal Justice (9 concentrations)
• Early Childhood Studies
• Education (16 concentrations)
• Forensic Psychology (5 concentrations)
• Clinical Psychology
• Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (3 concentrations)
• Mental Health Counseling (2 concentrations)
• Health Informatics – General
• Higher Education (6 concentrations)
• Human Resource Management (3 concentrations)
• Instructional Design and Technology (3 concentrations)
• Leadership (8 concentrations)
• Management (10 concentrations)
• Nonprofit Management
• Project Management
• Psychology (12 concentrations)
• Master of Science in Nursing (8 programs)

Online Doctorate Degrees

• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Global Supply Chain Management
• Information Systems Management
• International Business
• Leadership
• Marketing
• Self-Designed
• Social Impact Management
• Technology Entrepreneurship
• Administrator Leadership for Teaching & Learning
• Higher Education & Adult Learning
• Higher Education Leadership
• Special Education
• Teacher Leadership
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (D.N.P.)
• Education Specialist (Ed.S.)
• Counselor Education and Supervision (6 concentrations)
• Education (12 concentrations)
• Health Services (9 concentrations)
• Human Services (17 concentrations)
• Management (14 concentrations)
• Psychology (7 concentrations)
• Public Health (3 concentrations)
• Public Policy and Administration (27 concentrations)

Walden University is regionally accredited, the highest level of accreditation possible in the United States.

Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

Distance Learning: What is it?

Distance learning gives you the opportunity to educate yourself in a structured curriculum without having to set foot in a classroom. Many schools have offered distance learning courses for years, however the last fifteen years or so have given way to e-learning or online learning.

Previously, students would have been required to watch television programs on PBS to receive the visual learning for their courser studies and read along in the textbooks that were required for the courses. Students were required to register for the classes and had the choice of putting these classes towards a degree or take them one at a time for general knowledge.

How does distance learning work?

Distance learning in today’s tech-savvy culture takes place in the comfort of the students home using a computer and some sort of broadband or wifi connection. Each student has their own unique user ID and password that becomes their passport to education.

Once logged in to the learning portal, students select the class they want to work on and complete the coursework, watch lecture, participate in classroom discussions or take exams. Like regular college courses, they must register for the class beforehand. The course instructors interact with students via email and chat, sometimes by video chat depending on the technology used.

Distance Learning Myths

There are many myths to distance learning. One of the biggest ones is the concern that the degree from an online college program  isn’t worth the same as a traditional degree program. Fortunately, that is truly a myth.

As long as the degree is coming from an accredited college or university, the degrees are worth exactly the same. In fact, no where on your degree will it say that it was earned online, so the only person who may need to know is you.

Whether you are looking to enroll in one course, two courses, or a complete degree program, you are on your way to having a more enriched and fulfilled life! Before you begin taking the courses, you need to know how to choose the right college for your needs. There a a number of things to take into consideration when choosing the best college for your needs.

American InterContinental University

American InterContinental University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association.

AIU accommodates you and your lifestyle with quality undergraduate and graduate degree programs offering you value for your money; flexibility on your schedule; generous transfer-in policy crediting up to 50% of your combined past college credits and work experience; and adaptability with its award-winning virtual campus granting you access anytime, anywhere you are in the world.

AIU offers the following programs:

• Associate’s in Business Administration
• Associate’s in Criminal Justice Administration
• Associate’s in Information Systems
• Associate’s in Visual Communication
• Bachelor’s in Accounting and Finance
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management
• Bachelor’s in Human Resources
• Bachelor’s in International Business
• Bachelor’s in Management
• Bachelor’s in Marketing
• Bachelor’s in Operations Management
• Bachelor’s in Project Management
• Bachelor’s in Digital Design
• Bachelor’s in Web Design
• Bachelor’s in Computer Forensics
• Bachelor’s in Computer Systems
• Bachelor’s in Information Technology
• Bachelor’s in Internet Security
• Bachelor’s in Network Administration
• Bachelor’s in Programming
• Bachelor’s in Forensic Science
• Bachelor’s in Law Enforcement
• Bachelor’s in Special Populations
• Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction
• Master’s in Educational Assessment and Evaluation
• Master’s in Instructional Design
• Master’s in Leadership in Educational Organizations
• Master’s in Information Assurance and Security
• Master’s in Information Technology
• Master’s in Project Management
• Bachelor’s in Accounting
• Bachelor’s in Accounting & Finance Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Finance
• Bachelor’s in Finance Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Human Resources
• Bachelor’s in Human Resources Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in International Business
• Bachelor’s in International Business Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Management
• Bachelor’s in Management Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Marketing
• Bachelor’s in Marketing Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Operations Management
• Bachelor’s in Operations Management Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Organizational Psychology & Development Part Time Option
• Bachelor’s in Project Management
• Bachelor’s in Project Management Part Time Option

Read more or get a program guide from the American InterContinental University.

What type of degree are you seeking?

Determine the type of college degree you want to earn. If your career aspirations require a two year degree, then all you will need is an associates degree. If your career requires something more, then you may want to consider a bachelors or masters degree. Knowing what type of degree you want to earn will help you know how to choose the right college.

Comparing Colleges

Once you have determined the degree and area of study, then you can begin searching for colleges that offer that type of degree. You can look at schools that are local, out of state, across the country, or even in another part of the world. You may also want to consider an online degree program as an alternative to the traditional brick-and-mortar college degree programs.

Accreditation

As you are searching for your perfect college, you will want to look at a number of things, most importantly accreditation. Having the proper legitimate accreditation will ensure that the time and money you spend will be well worth it. Earning a degree from a non-accredited college could make your hunt for a job difficult, as your education may not have been as thorough or complete as other programs from accredited institutions,

Once you have examined all of these aspects you can begin the application process with the confidence that you now how to choose the right college for your education.

Any form of college education can be a huge investment of time and money. Even as online learning gains popularity as a preferred method of getting a college degree year after year, it’s certainly not for everyone.

Post University

Post University is licensed by the State of Connecticut through the Department of Higher Education (DHE). The purpose of licensure by the State of Connecticut is to ensure that any new institutions, and its academic programs (traditional classroom and online), comply with the quality standards required to begin operations in the state.

Post University offers computer degree programs intended to help students develop a detailed knowledge of their chosen field; understand and be able to use industry terminology; gain a practical and comprehensive understanding of the programs that they are enrolled in; and to advance in their studies.

Post University offers computer degrees in all 50 states:

• Associate’s in Accounting
• Associate’s in Early Childhood Education
• Associate’s in Legal Studies
• Associate’s in Management
• Associate’s in Marketing
• Bachelor’s in Psychology
• Bachelor’s in Accounting
• Bachelor’s in Business Administration
• Bachelor’s in Child Studies
• Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems
• Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice
• Bachelor’s in Finance
• Bachelor’s in Human Services
• Bachelor’s in Legal Studies
• Bachelor’s in Management
• Bachelor’s in Management for Registered Nurses
• Bachelor’s in Marketing
• Bachelor’s in Sport Management
• Certificate: CPA Examination Preparation Accounting Certificate
• Certificate: Early Childhood Education
• Certificate: Early Childhood Education Administration
• Certificate: Finance
• Certificate: Forensic Accounting
• Certificate: Game Design and Animation
• Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Corporate Innovation
• Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship
• Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Finance
• Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Leadership
• Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Marketing
• Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Performance Management
• Certificate: H.R. Management
• Certificate: Legal Nurse Consulting
• Certificate: Paralegal (Legal Studies)
• Master’s in Human Services
• Master of Business Administration
• Master of Education
• Master of Public Administration

Read more or get a program guide from Post University.

While you may be searching for a college for your child who may be more tech-savvy, it doesn’t necessarily mean that this is the most appropriate option for them. You may want to sit your child down and ask them, “Is online learning right for you?”

If you are trying to determine whether or not online education is the right choice for you or your child, here are some things to take into consideration.

Discipline

It is very important to note that online education takes a great deal of discipline. Many college courses may not necessarily require you to “attend” class at a specific day or time, many instructors do expect you to log into your class work once a day or at least a few times a week. You must be able to set aside time and keep a good schedule in order to stay with the class work.

Motivation

No online student would be successful without some sort of motivation. It can be so easy to become distracted with social networking or emails while working on your computer for school, not to mention watching movies, getting the latest news headlines, or blogging. Next thing you know, you’ll forget why you were on your computer in the first place and days could pass before you remember that you had coursework to do.

It can be easy to give up on your education if you know you aren’t required to be at a certain place at a certain time. By continuing to stay motivated you will be able to successfully keep up learning from home for the entire degree program.

Commitment

While you may have work and family lives you are committed to, your education must be a commitment too. A degree program can take years to complete, so having a strong commitment to your future means you must also be committed to your schoolwork. Making sure you set aside time for your classes, homework, and exams is vital.

So, is online learning right for you or your child? Please be sure that you or your son or daughter have the above qualities before exploring the concept of online education, otherwise it could certainly be a waste of your time and money.

Liberty University

Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS-COC) to award degrees at associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral levels.

Liberty University gives you access to your education 24/7 wherever you are in the world. It is affordable to your budget with tuition rates among the lowest in the country. It is deeply rooted to its Christian values taking careful consideration of the ethical standards many employers look for today.

Liberty University Programs:

Asociado de Artes en Educación
Asociado de Artes en Negocio
Asociado de Artes en Religion
Asociado de Artes en Sicología
Associate of Arts in Accounting
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
Associate of Arts in Business Management Information Systems
Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice
Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education in Interdisciplinary Studies
Associate of Arts in Education (Non-Licensure)
Associate of Arts in General Studies
Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
Associate of Arts in Psychology
Associate of Arts in Religion
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Bachelor of Science in Business Management Information Systems
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Science in Education (Non-Licensure)
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education – Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Bachelor of Science in Religion
Bachelor of Science in Special Education – Interdisciplinary Studies
Certificado Avanzado en Estudios Biblicos
Certificado en Negocios
Doctor of Education
Doctor of Ministry
Doctor of Philosophy
Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction
Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership
Maestria de Artes En Consejeria Pastoral
Maestria de Artes En Liderazgo Cristiano
Master in Public Health – Nutrition
Master of Arts in Christian Ministry
Master of Arts in Ethnomusicology
Master of Arts in Evangelism and Church Planting
Master of Arts in Global Studies
Master of Arts in Human Services
Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies
Master of Arts in Management and Leadership
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Master of Arts in Professional Counseling
Master of Arts in Public Policy
Master of Arts in Religion
Master of Arts in Religion
Master of Arts in Teaching
Master of Arts in Theological Studies
Master of Arts in Worship – Ethnomusicology
Master of Arts in Worship Studies
Master of Arts in Worship Studies
Master of Business Administration
Master of Divinity — Chaplaincy
Master of Education
Master of Religious Education
Master of Science in Accounting
Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator
Master of Science in Sport Management – Sport Administration
Master of Theology (non-thesis)
Undecided

Read more or get a program guide from Liberty University.

While there are many companies who will accept equivalent job experience in place of a degree, it can take years for you to get to a level in your career in which you are happy. There are solutions, however, if you want to go back to college, but can’t afford to spend the time a traditional college degree program requires by way of an online degree. There are many online degree types, and it’s important to know which one is right for you.

Online Associates Degree

This online degree program is equal to a 2-year degree program that you can earn at your local community college or university. It usually takes anywhere from 12-24 months to earn a degree in this program depending on the field of study.

Online Bachelors Degree

One of the most popular degree programs this 4-year undergraduate degree can usually qualify you for most jobs you seek. Depending on the school, this degree can be earned in 24-48 months.

Online Masters Degree

Some careers may require a masters degree in order to qualify for a job, or give you a competitive edge when vying for a great job opportunity. Online masters degrees Can be completed in about 12-24 months depending on the program.

Online Doctoral Degree

By earning the degree, you will be at the top of your field, as it is the highest degree one can earn. This program can take yearn to complete depending one the field of study and the online degree types available.

Once you now which online degree types will prepare you for the career you desire, all you will need to do is have a computer with a working Internet connection. All of your classes, readings, exams and discussions take place online so there is no need jot set foot in a classroom. If you’re looking at going back to school, consider an online degree today!

Searching for an Accelerated Nursing Program?

Nursing is one of the most noblest of professions and is currently in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that there is a current nursing and nursing faculty shortage due to the fact that baby boomers are aging and the need for health care is growing. This makes it a good time to enter the field. To get you there quicker, you may want to enroll in an accelerated nursing program.

12 Month Accelerated Nursing Program

What can you expect from a 12 month accelerated nursing program? A lot of work for one. It is a challenging and fast paced program that requires students to be determined and focused. These programs are designed for those that have a non-medical degree already. Typically, they hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree. This means that these students will just need the appropriate scientific, skills, and knowledge courses that relate to nursing. The other liberal arts requirements should have already been satisfied with their previous degree.

What if I Don’t Already Have a Degree?

There are also some 12 month options for those without a bachelor’s degree. This pertains mostly to those that are already working in the field as an RN. These programs help those already in the field earn the next highest degree in order to improve at work and move higher in the career field.  Unfortunately, if you do not have a non-medical bachelor’s and are not an RN, there are no 12 month options available to you. There are, however, accelerated BSN programs that will allow you to earn your bachelor’s degree in just 28-36 months including clinicals.

Summary

If you are looking to enter the field of nursing, there are many options available to you. Some schools even offer online programs where you can complete your degree from the convenience of your own home!

It is a great time to become a nurse. According to the American Nurses Association, there is a shortage of nurses, and this trend is expected to continue through 2020. To meet the high demand for nurses, many schools have started offering accelerated RN (registered nurse) programs.

Kaplan University

Kaplan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Kaplan University’s nursing program seeks to broaden the professional responsibilities of students who are aspiring to become nurses. The nursing program is designed to help students earn the credentials they need to qualify for new opportunities in specialized nursing and nursing management. Nursing students can enhance their skills to better meet the demands of today’s dynamic health care environment and pursue advanced professional roles.

Kaplan University offers the following nursing programs:

• Master’s in Nursing
• MSN – Nurse Administrator
• MSN – Nurse Educator
• MSN – Nurse Informatics
• RN to Bachelor’s in Nursing
• RN to Master’s in Nursing

Read more or get a program guide from Kaplan University.

Accelerated RN Programs

What is a RN?

Many of the nurses you see in hospitals and doctor’s offices are RN’s. They are responsible for treating patients, recording a patient’s medical histories and symptoms, and performing some diagnostic tests. The specific duties will vary depending on the environment a nurse works in and if they have a specialty.

Education Requirements

Many accelerated RN programs are found at community and junior colleges. There are even programs that you can take online! Most RN degrees are considered associate’s degrees and take approximately two years to complete. However, with an accelerated program, you can be done in just 12-18 months.  Depending on the level of education you have, you may be required to take some prerequisite classes. These can include math, science, and English.

A typical program will consist of coursework and clinical work. The coursework may include topics like chemistry, anatomy, physiology, general psychology, and sociology. The length of the clinical period will vary depending on the institution. However, students will be assessed during that time and will receive a grade.

Admission Requirements

Since these programs are very challenging, admission standards are strict.  Students will likely have to take a series of tests prior to enrollment, including English and math placement.  If students already have a bachelor’s degree in a non medical related discipline, they may be able to test out of some of the general education and liberal arts classes.

Summary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), RN’s average wage is approximately $65,000 a year.  That, coupled with the career field being understaffed, it is a great time to enter the field of nursing.

More and more students are looking to enter the workforce more quickly. Another four years of school may not be for everyone. However, we know that education is the key to success in the workplace. Thankfully, you can earn a degree fast and often from the comfort of your own home.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University is the only university to have received simultaneous accreditation by four regional accrediting commissions. Currently, WGU’s “home” accrediting commission is the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Western Governors University offers accelerated degrees in 6-week terms. WGU has multiple degree programs in education, business, healthcare, and information technology structured in such a way as to challenge learners and at the same time give them the faster education online.

WGU offers, among others, the following programs:

• Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education
• Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-8)
• Bachelor’s in Mathematics (5-9 or 9-12)
• Bachelor’s in Science (5 concentrations))
• Bachelor’s in Special Education (PK-12)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor’s in Health Informatics
• Bachelor’s in Accounting
• Bachelor’s in Business (3 concentrations)
• Bachelor’s information Technology (6 concentrations)
• B.S. Sales and Sales Management
• Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management
• Bachelor’s in IT Management

Read more or get a program guide from Western Governors University.

Degree Fast

Scams

Unfortunately, for every legitimate accelerated college program, there is a fraudulent one. The internet is riddled with ads that promise a degree in simply days. Sound too good to be true? It is. These sites do not hold the proper accreditation, and your degree will likely not be worth the paper it is printed on. Be certain to double check accreditation and the university. Many websites will closely mirror a legitimate university and will have false accreditation. If you are uncertain, it is best to contact one of the regional accreditation agencies.

Testing Out of Classes

There are legitimate ways to earn your degree at a faster pace. One of the more common ways is by taking the DANTE or CLEP tests. These tests are for those that have practical work experience or previous collegiate experience in a particular subject that didn’t transfer into the current program. If you pass the test, you will not have to take the specific courses related to that subject. Some colleges will also give you credit towards your degree.

Accelerated Programs

More and more universities are offering online programs. These, by their general nature, are accelerated because they typically do not follow a traditional academic schedule. Rather than 12-16 week semesters, academic periods are just 6-8 weeks long with no break in between. This allows for students to take more classes each academic year. Some accelerated programs allow you to earn your degree in half the time as a traditional program.

Summary

There are many legitimate ways to earn your degree fast. Be certain to do your research about the program and institution you are interested in, however. This can save you a lot of money in the long run.