Accelerated Degree Programs Online: Pros & Cons

Accelerated degree programs can offer options that make getting your degree possible, quickly, and without some of the inconveniences that come with studying for your diploma at a campus-based traditional college.  But of course, there are pros and cons to every type of choice.  Many people are unfamiliar with the process of getting an accelerated degree, as the option is a relatively new one.

Pros

You’re probably more familiar with the pros of getting an accelerated degree, because, well, that’s what online accelerated degree programs tend to advertise the most.  Nonetheless, we’ll go over them.

• Online distance learning: studying from home, not having to change your work schedule, and being able to log-in any time of day or night instead of following a rigid class schedule; if you have kids, you won’t have to arrange for childcare to cover when you go to class.  You also tend to have lower expenses for books and other materials.
• Accelerated courses mean finishing your degree faster than you would in a traditional program.  This is made possible by courses that are only six to eight weeks long, but worth the same number of credits as their traditional counterparts
• Other options for credit, like portfolio assessments, exams for credit, and easy transfer of credits you already have can speed the process even more

Cons

One of the issues with basing your decision entirely on the promotional literature of accelerated degree programs is that you may overlook some common sense factors that could impede your ability to finish the program.  Depending on your situation or your experience, these could be just as relevant as the reasons you’ve decided against getting your degree in a traditional program.  Accelerated courses are intense.  If you’ve never taken college level classes before, you might consider taking a class or two at your community college to assess whether or not you’re ready for condensed classes.

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