admin2Choosing an online bachelor’s degree program is a big decision, so take your time exploring your options. Think about your interests, priorities, and career goals to find the right path for you.
How to Choose the Right Online Bachelor’s Degree for You
1. Accelerated or self-paced?
Some programs are designed to be completed as fast as possible, while self-paced programs give you more flexibility. If speed is important, look for accelerated degrees you can finish in 2-3 years. Self-paced programs typically take 4-6 years but let you go at your own pace.
2. Majors that lead to growing careers
Consider majors that open up opportunities in expanding fields like healthcare, technology, and business. Nursing, computer science, and accounting are always solid choices. Do some research on the job market for different majors you’re interested in.
3. Accredited schools
Make sure any program you consider is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accredited schools meet high standards of quality, so your degree will be respected by employers.
4. Cost and financial aid
Online programs are often more affordable than traditional degrees, but costs still vary significantly between schools. Look for programs that fit your budget, and don’t forget to apply for scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Choosing the right online bachelor’s degree is about finding the program that aligns with your needs, priorities and goals. Do your research, evaluate your options carefully, and you’ll be well on your way to career success.
READ ALSO: How to Earn a Degree While Working Full-Time
Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degrees: How They Work
Accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs offer a faster track to earning a bachelor’s degree through:
1. Compressed course schedules
Accelerated programs typically offer courses in 5- to 8-week blocks, rather than the standard 15 weeks. This allows you to complete more courses in a shorter time period.
2. Year-round enrollment
Most accelerated programs offer courses year-round, so you can start whenever you’re ready and take breaks when needed. This flexibility allows you to continue progressing towards your degree even when life gets busy.
3. Credit for prior learning
Accelerated programs often award credit for relevant work or life experiences, military training, or credits earned at other schools. This can allow you to finish your remaining courses faster.
4. Focused curriculum
The curriculum in accelerated programs is streamlined to focus on essential concepts and skills. Courses cut out excess content and assignments to maximize your learning in less time.
5. Support services
Accelerated programs provide support services tailored to the needs of fast-paced students. This includes academic advising, tutoring, career counseling, and help accessing resources. These services help ensure your success in an accelerated program.
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Top 5 Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degrees
Here are 5 of the quickest options:
1. Business Administration
A business admin degree teaches you core concepts like management, marketing, finance and accounting. Many schools offer accelerated programs that can be finished in under 2 years. Popular concentrations include human resources, healthcare management and project management. This versatile degree can open up many career opportunities.
2. Criminal Justice
For those interested in law enforcement, legal studies or cybersecurity, a criminal justice degree provides a solid foundation. Accelerated programs are often available, allowing you to graduate in as little as 18-24 months. You’ll take courses in criminal law, policing, corrections and judicial procedure. Many criminal justice majors go on to work as police officers, paralegals, probation officers or in homeland security.
3. Healthcare Management
Healthcare management degrees prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. Typical courses include healthcare policy, ethics, finance and strategic planning. Accelerated bachelor’s programs can be completed in under 2 years, allowing you to enter or advance in the fast-growing healthcare field quickly. Career options include medical office manager, consultant and healthcare project manager.
4. Liberal Studies
A liberal studies degree provides a broad, interdisciplinary education that integrates topics from the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. Accelerated programs are common and can be finished within 2 years. Instead of specializing in one subject area, you’ll take courses in psychology, sociology, history, English, math and science. A liberal studies degree cultivates soft skills useful for many careers like communication, critical thinking and problem solving.
5. RN to BSN
For registered nurses with an associate’s degree, an RN to BSN program allows you to earn your bachelor’s in nursing in as little as 12-24 months. You’ll deepen your nursing knowledge and skills through courses in leadership, healthcare policy, evidence-based practice and community health. A BSN can open up more career opportunities and higher pay. Many RN to BSN programs are offered fully online for maximum flexibility.
Conclusion
While accelerated programs allow you to earn a bachelor’s degree at an expedited pace, they do require a major time commitment to complete the compressed coursework and curriculum. Make sure you understand the demands of an accelerated program before enrolling to set yourself up for success in earning your degree. With focus and determination, an accelerated online bachelor’s program can be a fast track to reaching your goals.
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