In today’s competitive job market, a business degree can open up opportunities and increased earning potential. However, not everyone has 2-4 years to spend on a traditional bachelor’s program. Here are some tips to accelerate your business degree.
- Consider an associate degree. Associate of Arts degrees in business take just 2 years to complete. They cover introductory business concepts and can help land entry-level jobs.
- Enroll in an accelerated business bachelor’s program. Some schools offer 3-year tracks with year-round study and credits for life/work experience.
- Attend summer sessions. Take summer classes in addition to fall and spring semesters to earn credits faster.
- Take on extra course loads. Increase your credit load per semester to over 15 credits. Just be sure not to compromise your grades.
- Test out of basic courses. Seek college credit for your existing knowledge through CLEP exams to skip introductory classes.
- Transfer credits from past college experience. Any relevant credits from previous schooling can potentially count toward your business degree.
- Study independently. Self-study for credit-by-exam options to demonstrate your knowledge and earn credit for what you already know.
- Consider competency-based programs. Some schools award credit based on proven competencies rather than required course hours.
- Look into credit for prior learning/work experience if offered. Develop a professional portfolio highlighting your work and life skills.
- Enroll full-time rather than part-time if possible. Taking a full course load each term will significantly accelerate progress.
- Set a ambitious graduation timeline and stick to it. Chart out required credits and aim to complete your degree at least 1 semester early.
