Accelerated Bachelors Degree Online – What Is It and Is It Right For You?

Are you looking for a faster way to get your bachelor’s degree? If so, then an accelerated bachelors degree online might be the perfect fit.

In recent years, online education has become increasingly popular. In 2020, it was estimated that more than 6 million students were enrolled in online courses in the US. Many of these courses have been created by universities, allowing students to access content anywhere and anytime – day or night.

Accelerated bachelor’s degree programs offer an even greater level of convenience and flexibility. These accelerated degrees can be completed in much less time than traditional bachelor’s degrees and they typically require fewer credit hours. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of what accelerated online bachelor’s degrees are as well as discuss why they’re becoming increasingly popular among working adults and career-oriented students.

What Are Accelerated Bachelor’s Degrees?

An accelerated bachelor’s degree is a college degree program where students can complete their undergraduate studies at an expedited pace. Traditional bachelor’s degrees generally take four to five years to finish, but students who enroll in an accelerated bachelor’s program will be able to finish their studies faster. This compressed timeline is achieved by eliminating traditional semesters and allowing coursework to be completed over shorter terms. Accelerated bachelor’s degrees offer increased flexibility for adult learners who wish to retrain and pursue a new career, without sacrificing the full college experience.

Accelerated Bachelors to Master’s Degree

Some colleges offer accelerated bachelor’s degrees as a pathway to getting their master’s degrees.  Colleges give you the opportunity to simultaneously take graduate courses while completing your bachelor’s degree.  This arrangement accelerates the time it would normally take you to complete your graduate degree.  In some cases, you can also save money on graduate courses by taking those courses at undergraduate-level tuition costs.

Are Accelerated Bachelors Degrees Online Worth It?

Despite the time crunch, accelerated bachelor’s degrees can be worth it if a student is adequately prepared and committed to their work. An accelerated degree often requires a student to have prior knowledge of the subject matter, so that more challenging courses can be completed in a shorter period of time. Additionally, an accelerated degree allows students to complete their coursework more quickly and start their careers sooner than those taking the traditional four-year program. However, accelerated programs may not provide students with enough time to pursue internship opportunities or engage in extracurricular activities; so students should think carefully about whether an accelerated bachelor’s degree program truly fits their needs and lifestyle.

What Are The Admission Requirements For An Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Program?

Admission requirements for an accelerated degree program will depend on which institution is offering the program. Generally, a student must have completed some credits toward a bachelor’s degree in order to be eligible for an accelerated program. Additionally, applicants must hold a minimum GPA, score well on standardized tests and have a certain amount of work experience. Students will also need to submit evidence of their previous academic success and show that they are professionally oriented and motivated to complete the required coursework in an accelerated timeframe.

Top Schools Offering Accelerated Bachelors Degrees Online

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Enjoy an accelerated path to earning a degree that reduces the amount of time it takes to reach your educational goals. 

SNHU Accelerated Degrees Online

  • Bachelors in Accounting
  • Bachelors in Communication
  • Bachelors in Finance
  • Bachelors in Marketing
  • Bachelors in Sports Management

Benefits of SNHU’s Accelerated Degree Programs

  • Flexible options enable you to study when and where it’s most convenient for you, with courses available online and/or in the classroom.
  • Affordable tuition and year-round start dates make Southern New Hampshire University Accelerated Degree Programs more accessible.
  • An unparalleled academic support system is dedicated to encouraging and supporting students throughout their learning journey. 
  • Industry experts provide students with real-world advice to help them take their knowledge and skills into the professional realm.

2. Purdue University Global

Complete your degree and career objectives faster, with accelerated courses from Purdue University Global through their ExcelTrack Bachelor’s Degrees and their ExcelTrack Master’s Degrees and Post Graduate Certificates

Purdue Global Accelerated Online Degrees

ExcelTrack Bachelor’s Degrees
  • Analytics
  • Business Administration
  • Cloud Computing and Solutions
  • Criminal Justice
  • Cybersecurity
  • Health Care Administration
  • Information Technology
  • Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
ExcelTrack Master’s Degrees
  • Business Administration (MBA)
  • Cybersecurity Management
  • Information Technology
  • Nursing (MSN)
  • Nurse Executive Leader
  • Nurse Educator

Benefits of Purdue Global’s ExcelTrack Degree and Certificate Programs

  •  Highly affordable tuition and convenient learning options, so you can pursue your educational goals on your own time. 
  • Receive recognition and awards as part of a globally connected community of students and Purdue University faculty members. 
  • Benefit from industry-leading instructors and cutting-edge coursework that prepares you for success in today’s global economy. 
  • Use the latest tools, technologies, and resources to get ahead in your career and leave college with an advanced degree that opens doors to new opportunities.

3. Western Governor’s University

Complete your degree faster and more affordably with Western Governor’s University Accelerated Degree Programs. 

WGU’s Accelerated Degree Programs Online

  • BS to MS in Information Technology

Benefits of WGU’s Accelerated Degree Programs

  • Get personalized support from experienced WGU faculty who will guide you throughout the program so you can reach your academic goals.
  • Conveniently access all of your courses online, giving you the flexibility to study no matter where you are. 
  • Earn industry-recognized certifications and credentials that prove the value of your academic endeavors. 
  • Enjoy learning at an accelerated pace and strive for excellence with challenging coursework that sets you up for success.

4. New Jersey Institute of Technology

Get an NJIT degree in less time: start to finish in as little as a year.

NJIT’s Accelerated Online Bachelor Degree Programs

  • BS in Business

Benefits of NJIT’s Accelerated Online Bachelor Programs

  • Enjoy the flexibility of online classes and convenient scheduling, with some options for evening classes. 
  • Expand your career potential with a respected NJIT undergraduate or graduate degree.
  • Benefit from personalized support through NJIT’s award-winning student services program.
  • Take advantage of our versatile curriculum with courses on dozens of hot topics in technology, engineering, math, and business.

5. University of New Mexico

Get your degree in less time with the University of New Mexico’s accelerated online bachelor’s programs.

University of New Mexico’s Accelerated Online Bachelor Programs

  • Business Administration (BBA)
  • Chicana & Chicano Studies (BA)
  • Community Health Education (BS)
  • Dental Hygiene (RDH-BSDH) Post-Licensure Program
  • Economics (BA)
  • Instructional Technology & Training (BS)
  • Native American Studies (BA)
  • Psychology (BA)
  • Strategic Communication (BA Journalism & Mass Communication)

Benefits of the University of New Mexico’s Accelerated Online Bachelor Programs

  • Immerse yourself in a college experience while studying at home, working, and living life on your own schedule.
  • Make the most of the University of New Mexico’s technological innovations that enable continuous learning anytime, anywhere. 
  • Reach your career goals faster with an accelerated online bachelor’s degree program. 
  • Benefit from flexible class schedules and self-paced courses so you can complete courses according to your own timeline.

6. Bellevue University

Fit your degree program into your busy life with 8-week courses and online learning options through Bellevue University.

Bellevue University’s Accelerated Online Degree Programs

Bachelor’s Degrees
  • Criminal Justice (Cohort) – BS
  • Cybersecurity (Cohort) – BS
Master’s Degrees
  • Business Administration (Cohort) – MBA
  • Cybersecurity (Cohort) – MS
  • Emergency Management (Cohort) – MS
  • Human Services (Cohort) – MA

Benefits of Bellevue University’s Accelerated Online Cohort Degree Programs

  • Direct access to knowledgeable Bellevue professors and staff who will be with you every step of the way.
  • With our flexible course times and start dates, you can decide when is most convenient for you to join a program or course. 
  • Choose from 25 majors and programs including computer science, health sciences, and psychology
  • Financial aid assistance, scholarship programs, and other financial plans available to make sure cost doesn’t get in the way of learning success.

7. Muhlenberg College

Achieve your bachelor’s degree in less time and for a fraction of the cost with Muhlenberg College’s accelerated degree programs.

Muhlenberg University’s Accelerated Online Programs

  • Bachelor’s in Business Administration 
  • Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management
  • Bachelor’s in Human Resources Leadership
  • Bachelor’s in Information Systems Management
  • Bachelor’s in Project Management
  • Bachelor’s in Supply Chain Management

Benefits of Muhlenberg University’s Accelerated Online Programs

  • You won’t have to worry about missing out on important skills and knowledge since our accelerated programs are just as rigorous as other college degree plans.
  • Our small class sizes mean you’ll receive one-on-one attention from instructors who can answer all your questions.
  • You’ll have the opportunity to gain real-world experiences through internships, fieldwork, and research projects. 
  • Benefit from our extensive alumni network to help build your career connections before graduating.

8. Rasmussen University

Get your degree faster with a highly flexible program through Rasmussen University designed to fit the needs of busy adults. 

Rasmussen University’s Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs

  • Accounting
  • Business Management
  • Computer Science
  • Criminal Justice
  • Cyber Security
  • Data Analytics
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Finance
  • Graphic Design
  • Health and Wellness
  • Health Information Management
  • Healthcare Management
  • Human Resources and Organizational Leadership
  • Human Services
  • Information Technology Management
  • Marketing
  • RN to BSN
  • Supply Chain and Logistics Management

Benefits of Rasmussen University’s Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs

  • Enjoy lower tuition rates, thanks to our innovative and cost-effective accelerated model. 
  • Save time and money with our condensed Bachelor’s degree programs that allow you to complete coursework in as little as 18 months. 
  •  Benefit from an interactive learning environment with expert faculty and continuous guidance for success. 
  • Transfer up to 90 credits from prior college coursework or professional/life experiences towards your degree.

9. Boston University

With accelerated coursework through Boston University, you can earn your degree faster, so you can launch into a career sooner.

Boston University’s Accelerated Degree Completion Programs Online

  • BS in Computer Science
  • BS in Management Studies
  • Bachelor of Liberal Studies Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies

Benefits of Boston University’s Accelerated Degree Completion Program

  •  Get personalized support and guidance from BU faculty mentors who understand your individual needs.
  • Benefit from our hands-on learning experiences to develop skills that employers value.
  • Take courses online or on campus with flexible options to fit your lifestyle and busy schedule.
  • You’ll receive help in finding transportation and/or housing while attending classes at Boston University.

10. University of Missouri – St. Louis

Get ahead and jumpstart your career with an accelerated degree program at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. 

University of Missouri’s Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree Programs

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing

University of Missouri’s Accelerated Master’s Degree Programs

  • Agricultural and Applied Economics, Master of Science
  • Biological Engineering, Master of Science
  • Business Administration, Master of Business Administration (Crosby MBA)
  • Civil Engineering, Master of Science
  • Computer Engineering, Master of Science
  • Computer Science, Master of Science
  • Dietetics, Master of Science
  • Electrical Engineering, Master of Science
  • English, Master of Arts
  • Food and Hospitality Systems, Master of Science
  • Industrial Engineering, Master of Science
  • Journalism, Master of Arts
  • Natural Resources with Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Emphasis, Master of Science
  • Public Affairs, Master of Public Affairs
  • Statistics, Master of Arts
  • Theatre, Master of Arts

Benefits of the University of Missouri’s Accelerated Degree Programs

  •  With a shorter learning period, you can focus on learning the material quickly and efficiently. 
  • You’ll have more time to explore your interests or take up internships and study abroad trips during your time off from school. 
  • Plus, you’ll also benefit from the University of Missouri’s experienced faculty and supportive staff – helping you reach your goals faster!

11. Keiser University

Get a Keiser University degree in half the time – choose from degrees that can be completed up to six times faster than traditional programs.

Keiser University’s Accelerated Programs

  • Business Administration, BA to MBA
  • Criminal Justice, BA to MACJ
  • Homeland Security, BA to MAHS

Benefits of Keiser University’s Accelerated Programs

  • Enjoy high flexibility – fit classes into your life with the accelerated evening, weekend, and online courses. 
  • Take advantage of student services like personalized academic advising, library access, and online tutoring. 
  • Manage the cost of attending school by taking full or part-time classes tailored to your needs. 
  • Feel supported when you need it most with experienced faculty and highly qualified career counselors.