Top 10 Best Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online 2023

Students love accelerated bachelor’s degrees online, and for good reason.

Accelerated programs consist of short online classes. In short, a traditional college course lasts 16 weeks. But an accelerated bachelor’s program compresses courses into shorter five-, eight- or 10-week sessions.

In other words, you literally earn your degree faster by studying faster.

You take just as many courses to complete an accelerated bachelor’s program as a traditional degree. However, you learn faster to accelerate degree completion.

Article Navigation: How Fast Can You Get a Bachelor’s Degree Online? | Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online | How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in 2 Years | Cheap Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online Programs | Top 5 Best Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs | What Careers Are Worth Going Back to School For? | Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree — Pros & Cons | Accelerated Online Degree Tips | FAQs | To Find Accelerated Online Bachelor Degrees

How Fast Can You Get a Bachelor’s Degree Online?

Bachelor’s degrees are valuable. They bring increased professional opportunities and generally higher salaries. However, the cost of a bachelor’s degree and the time it takes to complete this credential must be considered.

Depending on your goals and the program you attend, completing a bachelor’s degree can take two to four years. In fact, in some cases, it can take longer.

But you can earn a bachelor’s degree online faster with an accelerated degree. In short, accelerated bachelor’s degrees online can take two years on average. This is accomplished by having students take classes during summer semesters. That allows you to complete the standard range of 120 credits in three or fewer years.

There are no 6-month bachelor’s degree programs. There are one-year bachelor’s degree programs, but they are highly intensive and difficult to complete. Overall, completing an online bachelor’s degree in one year is not for the faint of heart! Remember this before signing up to complete a bachelor’s degree in 12 months.

Let’s take a look at the different types of bachelor’s degrees you can earn online.

Regular Online Bachelor’s Degree

As stated earlier, standard online bachelor’s degrees take four years to complete. A normal bachelor’s degree program has 120 credits. These credits may be broken down into a different number of semester hours or credits depending on your school. For example, if you transfer credits from an associate’s degree.

In any case, traditional bachelor’s degrees require general education and core courses over the first two years. Over the latter two years, students specialize and take more classes related to their majors or focus. This standard timeline applies to both in-person and online bachelor’s degrees.

Fast-Track Bachelor’s Degrees Online

Fast-track bachelor’s degrees are accelerated bachelor’s programs. Most accelerated degrees online can be completed in three years online or in person.

Generally, these programs shave off one to two years from a normal degree program through several means:

• Some accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs offer courses through each year’s summer semester. That way, students attend class all year long. But they earn enough credits over 2-3 years not to have to attend a fourth year.
• Other fast-track online bachelor’s degrees allow students to transfer credits from previous degree programs. Like associate degrees. That shortens the number of credits required during the bachelor’s program. Most transferable credits are those from the first two years of a standard bachelor’s degree. They’ll be from general education courses unrelated to your major or specialty.
• Also, an accelerated bachelor’s online allows students to submit work experience instead of credits. This is most common for fields where work experience can reasonably be substituted for classroom experience, like nursing.

No matter which accelerated degree program you choose, these fast bachelor’s degrees require a lot of commitment. Yes, they can be some of the best degrees for adults returning to college. But online degree completion will require your full attention. You do not get to work at your own pace with online college courses in accelerated undergraduate degree programs.

Accelerated Bachelor-Master Program Online

Accelerated bachelor-master programs are compressed dual-degree programs. They result in graduates earning both bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. They take five years to complete. As a result, they compress the two-year standard for master’s programs into a truncated 1.5-year timeframe.

Most of these programs compress their timelines by having students attend class all year long throughout summer semesters. These are ideal for those who know what they want to do for a career. For example, students who need a master’s degree can enter their chosen fields.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online

Accelerated bachelor’s degrees online are excellent for many students. Of course, the biggest benefit is that they save time. Fortunately, accelerated degrees for bachelor’s programs are common online. Many of the best schools offer accelerated bachelor’s programs. Here is an example:

1. Western Governors University offers a method of learning that allows students to fast forward through work where they are already proficient.

This is an excellent options. But don’t jump in just yet, because it takes a moment to consider whether this type of online education suits your learning style. For example, does it work with your current career timetable and study habits?

We’ve compiled some advice and warnings to help you decide if accelerated online degree programs are right for you.

Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs vs. Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs

First, it’s important to note that bachelor’s degree completion programs aren’t the same things as accelerated bachelor’s degree programs.

A bachelor’s degree completion program is for students who have started but not yet finished their undergrad degrees. For example, say a working professional might have earned an associate degree plus a few extra credits beyond that degree. But they have not finished their bachelor’s yet. They can attend a bachelor’s degree completion program to finish off that undergraduate degree.

Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs include all the credits and classes that a normal bachelor’s program includes. They just have shorter time spans.

Both types of programs take fewer than four years to complete. In some cases, a bachelor’s degree completion program might only take 1.5 years or one year to finish. But each is intended for a different student.

Is an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?

An accelerated bachelor’s degree online could be very much worthwhile. For instance, if you’re looking to finish your schooling and get an entry-level job in your industry of choice ASAP. In that case, an accelerated degree program will let you do just that.

Furthermore, an accelerated bachelor’s degree can make the most of your time if you don’t have to work while attending school. However, keep in mind that accelerated bachelor’s degrees require extra focus and time spent studying. You also don’t get the normal summer break in between the spring and fall semesters each year.

Benefits of Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs for Working Adults

Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs bring many benefits to the table for working adults.

For starters, they require less of a time commitment compared to traditional bachelor’s degree programs. The right accelerated program may let you shave off one to two years from your total studying time.

Furthermore, bachelor’s accelerated programs allow you to start your career trajectory much more quickly. This could put you ahead of your peers. On top of that, since you spend fewer years at school, you’ll spend less time on resources and classes so you might save some money in the long run.

How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in 2 Years

Acquiring a bachelor’s degree in just two years is more than possible. Provided you meet certain prerequisites. 2-year bachelor’s degrees always rely on you having completed some college credits beforehand. These are most appropriate for adults who already have an associate degree. Also, for those with applicable work experience.

Key Steps Toward an Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree

In order to acquire a bachelor’s degree in two years, you’ll need to complete the following prerequisites and steps:

1. First, you must have some college credits to transfer to your new bachelor’s program. All bachelor’s programs require 120 credits or more (or the equivalent in semester credits/hours). Therefore, you need to be able to transfer up to 90 credits to your new program to complete it in two years or less.
2. Next, you likely need to have completed an associate degree. Most associate degree credits apply to related bachelor’s programs. For example, say you completed an associate degree in liberal arts. In this case, you should be able to transfer some or all of those credits to an English bachelor’s degree.
3. Lastly, it never hurts to have relevant work experience depending on the bachelor’s degree you wish to pursue. For example, nurses pursuing an accelerated nursing bachelor’s program can often count their work experience as credits.

If you follow all of these steps, you’ll discover that you have 60 credits or more to put toward a bachelor’s degree program. That’s more than half of the 120 required credits. So you could feasibly complete the rest of your degree in two years or less.

Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice

Many of the best accelerated online bachelor’s degrees are in criminal justice. These degrees generally benefit those who don’t have a bachelor’s in any subject. After graduating, they can qualify for a wide range of criminal justice jobs. They’re also excellent stepping-stone degrees for those who may wish to pursue a law degree later on.

1. Liberty University – Online Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice

   Liberty University’s online BS in criminal justice is 120 credit hours. It can take about 3.5 years, so it’s a little shorter than average. Furthermore, each class takes eight weeks to complete. The degree is 100% online, not requiring any in-person components.

   Even better, students can transfer up to 75% of their total credits toward the degree. In addition, there are start dates almost every month. This flexible remote online bachelor’s in criminal justice is perfect for working adults. Or those who want to complete their education online with minimal hassle.

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Accelerated Business Bachelor’s Degree

Alternatively, you may choose to pursue an accelerated business bachelor’s degree. Accelerated business degrees are versatile. They’re appropriate for a variety of lucrative careers. Think about starting your own business, working as a manager, and much more. Many of these online degree completion programs also allow you to specialize in some business areas.

1. Colorado State University Global – Online Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management

   CSU Global offers an online bachelor’s degree in business management. It’s 120 credits in total, mixing general education courses, specialized classes, and electives. Regardless, all students benefit from a flexible schedule. You can choose whether you want to complete the program at an accelerated pace or a traditional pace.

   This online accelerated degree program is 100% online as well. It offers fully asynchronous scheduling. The ACBSP, or Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, accredits the program. Also, SHRM, a human resources accrediting body.

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Cheap Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Online Programs

Some students pursue accelerated online programs because they are affordable. And several accelerated online bachelor’s programs online are cheaper than average. Because you spend less time earning your education than with a traditional degree.

However, the right degree doesn’t just depend on its overall price. It also depends on accreditation and program quality. Let’s take a look at three accredited and cheap online accelerated bachelor’s degrees.

1. Middle Georgia State University

   Degree: BS in Respiratory Therapy Bridge/Completion Program
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $131 per credit hour

   Middle Georgia State University’s BS in Respiratory Therapy program costs $131 per credit hour. Overall, it’s an effective bridge program for those who have already earned an AS or AAS in respiratory therapy. This well-designed program is 120 credit hours in total. Each class takes eight weeks to complete.

   Furthermore, each course is fully online to ensure a flexible schedule. If you’ve graduated from an accredited RT or RRT credential program, you can put 21 credit hours of your coursework toward this degree. That way, you can complete it even faster.

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2. American College of Education

   Degree: BS in Nursing (RN to BSN)
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $7,950

   At the American College of Education, you can pursue an RN to BSN nursing program online for $7,950. It’s one of the cheapest programs overall, especially for aspiring nurses. You can complete it in as few as 15 months. Also, start dates are available throughout the year.

   This program is only 30 semester hours in total. Therefore, it’s intended for registered nurses with associate degrees or extensive work experience. The program covers important nursing topics like nursing informatics, health promotion, and leadership and management in healthcare.

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3. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

   Degree: BS in Nursing (RN to BSN)
   Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $277.77 per credit

   The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley also offers an affordable BS in nursing online. This is a good pathway for currently registered nurses. It costs $277.77 per credit, marking it as an affordable online solution.

   The program offers two different start dates in the fall and spring of each year. Over the program’s duration, students will learn how to:

   – Demonstrate critical thinking
   – Communicate effectively to patients and their families
   – Evaluate healthcare activities

   It’s an excellent degree program for those who wish to expand their nursing knowledge and potentially pursue higher nursing credentials in the future.

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Top 5 Best Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs

If price matters less than quality, we have good news. There are plenty of exceptional accelerated bachelor’s degree programs online. Here’s a breakdown of five of the top accelerated bachelor’s programs you can attend. Many without having to visit campus frequently or at all. Many of these accelerated bachelor’s degree programs for adults offer financial aid and other benefits.

1. ECPI University

   Degree: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
   

   ECPI University’s 2.5-year BSN nursing is a fast-paced program that doesn’t compromise in terms of quality. It offers aspiring students a direct, focused path to getting their BSN. Ultimately, it allows them to earn much more money in the nursing field than before.

   Upon graduation, students are automatically qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. The exam allows them to acquire their nursing licenses. The program runs all year round, so you don’t get a summer break. The program also requires five semester hours of self-integration, so you do need to visit campus in person at least once for orientation. It’s a stellar program for adults returning to college.

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2. Rasmussen University

   Degree: Bachelor’s in Human Resources & Organizational Leadership 

   This Bachelor’s in Human Resources and Organizational Leadership can take as few as 18 months. It’s perfect for future HR leaders and managers. The program covers soft skills and sought-after leadership skills for a wide range of people-focused careers. Students can access courses online from anywhere in the world.

   Furthermore, completing this accelerated degree program online will qualify you for an accelerated master’s pathway. This gives you a head start on your next degree. Also, the program prepares you to sit for the SHRM Certified Professional exam. The SHRM exam qualifies you to work as an HR manager. You’ll also qualify for other certificate tests and exams.

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3. Bellevue University

   Degree: Bachelor of Science in Health Science
   

   Check out Bellevue University’s BS in Health Science. This degree has the potential to be a fast-paced program as you can transfer 16 credits from an associate program. It’s a great preparatory degree on the path to medical school. Especially since it qualifies you to sit for a pre-medical certificate exam.

   If you don’t want to attend medical school, this bachelor’s degree completion program can still be a great option. It has a diverse, broad curriculum that prepares you for many career options and pathways. Program benefits include dedicated professors and the same quality and rigor to online courses as on-campus.

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4. Champlain University

   Degree: Bachelor of Science in Accounting 

   Champlain University’s BS in Accounting takes just three years. That’s thanks to the quality of the program’s curriculum and its faculty members. Each student benefits from small class sizes. There are also engaging projects and deep discussions about the accounting field.

   What’s more is students can take advantage of internships with companies such as KPMH and AON. Students may hold paid peer tutoring positions at the accounting and finance lab at this school. It’s a great accelerated program to take advantage of every opportunity.

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5. Lindenwood University

   Degree: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology 

   At Lindenwood University, students can complete a BS in Information Technology in just two years at maximum speed. It’s 120 credit hours and costs $495 per credit. But it’s 100% online. And it allows students to choose from concentration paths: Networking or Applications Development.

   Regardless, all students learn well-rounded core courses. Examples include the foundations of cyber security and the foundations of networking. It’s also one of the most accessible accelerated bachelor’s degrees. Students with low GPAs may still qualify (though they will need to submit a letter of intent and a resume). If you’re interested in IT, it’s a top accelerated degree program for working adults like you.

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What Careers Are Worth Going Back to School For?

These days, there are lots of careers that could be worth returning to school for. This is especially true if you want to change career paths or earn more money. Below are just a handful of examples:

• Health information technician: Where you work in the healthcare industry and oversee physical and electronic medical records
• Substance abuse counselor: Where you help those facing substance addictions and make important improvements in their lives
• Registered nurse: This sets you on a new career path, helping others in the medical industry
• Dental hygienist: A stable career with good pay and many opportunities for advancement
• Web developer: This puts you in a growing field and gives you a chance to grow your skill set and your salary over time
• Information security analyst: This career allows you to work in a cyber security field. Also, you can take advantage of high salaries and plentiful jobs.
• Accountant: Here, you put your math skills to work. You can earn a lot of money and help businesses and people balance their books.
• Human resources manager: This is a people-focused profession. It allows you to help companies find and maintain the right employees.

Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree — Pros & Cons

There are many benefits to pursuing an accelerated bachelor’s degree.

To begin with, accelerated bachelor’s degree programs let you save time for your family or your future career. You can work up the corporate ladder faster with only two to three years dedicated to a bachelor’s. Alternatively, your time is more flexible for more personal endeavors, like family.

Furthermore, accelerated bachelor’s degrees let you jump into growing fields. This is a great benefit for up-and-coming specialists. For example, the cyber security and computer science fields are always growing. The faster you get into these fields, the faster you can take advantage of new positions.

Overall, accelerated bachelor’s degrees enable you to pursue higher education quickly. Say you want to earn a graduate degree ASAP. You need a bachelor’s degree first. Earning an accelerated bachelor’s degree will help you make the most of your time. Particularly if it’s a bachelor + master program.

Potential Downsides of Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Accelerated bachelor programs are not for everyone. They require a way larger investment of time and energy than traditional courses. Yes, the promise of earning a degree fast is enticing. But fast can quickly become frantic. And frantic can lead to high degree drop-out rates.

Consider these factors:

• Interaction with your fellow online students may be limited. In an accelerated online course, it will be even harder to learn from your peers and make new friends.
• Some subjects can be more difficult to learn on a compressed timetable. Math and computer skills, in particular, benefit from a longer learning period, some experts warn.
• Research suggests long-term recall of topics may not be as good if the material is compressed. This may be a major concern if you plan on building upon the subject you are studying.
• Accelerated online learning can be jarring. Especially if you are an adult learner with a job and family. If you don’t have the time or attention to focus, then an accelerated online degree program may not work for you.

But that doesn’t mean condensing a semester’s worth of material in two months is impossible. In fact, many people prefer faster-paced courses.

Ultimately, you should weigh the pros and cons of accelerated degree programs before signing up. These can be the fastest ways to get a bachelor’s degree. But not without some compromise in other areas of your life.

Accelerated Online Degree Tips

If you’re uncertain whether an accelerated, accredited bachelor’s degree online is right for you, consider these tips:

1. Evaluate homework requirements, such as reading load per week. Expect assignments to take two to three times more time per week than in a 16-week semester course.
2. Consider what else is going on in your life. Getting married? Is a new baby on the way? Starting a job? If so, it’s probably not a good time to commit yourself to a fast-paced online course.
3. Research your professor. Is the professor available for questions? Will he respond to an email within 24 hours? Are there regular hours when you can contact him? How fast will assignments be returned?
4. Prepare to excel. Students in accelerated online degree courses perform significantly better in tests than their peers in semester-long courses.

Many of the best colleges for adults returning to school offer the fastest bachelor’s degrees online. But you’ll only make the most of your accelerated college degree if you’re in the right personal position to do so.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree?

Generally, it takes between two and four years to get a bachelor’s degree. Traditional bachelor’s degrees take four years to complete. You can earn a bachelor’s degree online with a short bachelor’s degree program, however. Many accelerated bachelor’s degrees shave off one to two years depending on their formats and policies regarding transfer credits.

How fast is an accelerated bachelor’s?

The average accelerated bachelor’s degree online is three years. However, some accelerated bachelor’s degrees can be completed in two years or 2.5 years. Others may be completed in 3.5 years and only save you a little bit of time. These are some of the best accelerated online degree programs for working adults who need a bit of schedule flexibility.

Is an accelerated bachelor’s degree worth it?

An accelerated bachelor’s degree can very much be worth it. Specifically if you want to cut down on costs and your time at school. However, accelerated bachelor’s degrees are always full-time degrees. So you need to be able to dedicate enough time to your education for them to be worthwhile.

The best accelerated bachelor’s degrees online accredited by worthwhile institutions provide you with the same benefits as other programs.

Are accelerated degrees good?

Accelerated degrees are good for students who want to jump into the workforce ASAP. Also, those who want to finish their schooling as quickly as possible. They are advantageous for those who can fully dedicate themselves to education. But they’re not always ideal for those who have to continue working while attending school, for example.

Consider trying an accelerated associate’s degree online first. If you like that experience, consider pursuing a fast-track bachelor’s degree online as well.

To Find Accelerated Online Bachelor Degrees

To summarize, an accelerated bachelor’s degree program could be perfect for your needs. Of course, consider your timeline and your budget before applying. GetEducated has a complete collection of resources and a degree browser to help you find the right accelerated online bachelor’s program. Check it out today!