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How to Get an Accelerated Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree

Thinking about making a difference in your career by going back to school for a bachelor's or master's degree? These days, colleges and universities are offering working people an option: accelerated degree programs.

1. Call local colleges and universities to find out if they offer any accelerated degree programs. You can also visit an online search engine and look up "accelerated degree programs," but finding one close to you may take a while.
2. Determine whether you can get the type of degree you need from a college or university near you. Some accelerated degree programs offer only bachelor's degrees or only master's degrees, but many do offer both.
3. Research the costs. Such a program typically costs $15,000 to $25,000 and may include books, a leased computer and tuition; keep in mind that you may not qualify for as much financial aid as you would have right out of high school.
4. Assess the time commitment. Whether you are going for a bachelor's or a master's degree, most programs require students to attend class one night per week and study group another, and these are not optional.
5. Find out if you meet the entrance requirements for the program. For bachelor's degree programs, you may be required to show proof of high school graduation or a GED, a minimum of 60 college credits with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and a minimum of two years of practical work experience. For a master's degree program you must have a bachelor's degree, letters of recommendation and a minimum of two years of practical work experience.
6. Gather your information before applying. You will usually need a letter from your employer to verify your years of work experience, copies of transcripts and diplomas from your high school and any previous college work, and in most cases, letters of recommendation.
7. Locate the accelerated degree program's office. Sometimes the registrar's office handles this program in addition to regular undergraduate and graduate programs; however, it's just as common for separate offices to be located off the college or university's main campus.
8. Submit your application with all appropriate materials and fees.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a degree that will most benefit your career. Most of these programs offer degrees in subjects like business administration, technology management and human relations; if you are a concert pianist, these are not likely to benefit you at all.
• Make sure you are dedicated to finishing the program. If you change your mind, a refund may or may not be possible.
• Commit yourself to attending class and study groups every week. Because these programs already meet on a limited basis, more than one or two absences can seriously jeopardize your ability to get the degree you're seeking.

via ehow